The Plainfield Park District was awarded an Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources in the amount of $400,000 for the redevelopment of Van Horn Woods.
“We’re thankful for the opportunity to improve and enhance one of larger community parks,” said Plainfield Park District Executive Director Carlo Capalbo. “We’re always trying to find ways to enhance recreation opportunities in the District, and this state grant is a fantastic way to help make that happen.”
OSLAD grants provide up to one-half of a project’s funds, with the rest of the funding coming from the Plainfield Park District’s capital and special recreation funds.
The primary objectives of the 87-acre Van Horn Woods development project are to:
- Enhance the natural amenities already on site
- Improve accessibility throughout
- Expand recreational and educational opportunities
Project elements are to include:
- Replacement of the playground at Van Horn Woods East
- Fishing pier improvements
- Shoreline restoration
- Fitness pods
- Permanent fixtures at the bike park
- Pollinator garden
- Disc golf course
- Expanded trails throughout
Input on the project’s elements were received at a public meeting held August 18, 2021. In addition, a public meeting on the bike park was held in January of 2020. OSLAD grants require funded parks to be completed within two years of receiving the grant.
