OSLAD Grant Fuels Galesburg's Vision for a New Park

By: Forgottonia Times™ Report

The City of Galesburg has been awarded a $500,000 grant through the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) program. This grant will significantly boost the city's efforts to develop a new public park on the site of the former Cooke Elementary School at 652 W. Second Street.

The OSLAD program, administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), is designed to help local governments across Illinois acquire and develop land for public recreational use. This year, the program distributed a total of $54.9 million across 111 local park projects, with Galesburg being one of the fortunate recipients.

The new park, which is expected to cost around $1 million in total, will feature a variety of amenities designed to serve the local community. Plans include the construction of a trailhead, a modern playground, a picnic shelter, and accessible pathways. Additionally, the park will have a parking area, restrooms, and be landscaped with native trees and plants to enhance the green space.

The decision to develop a park on the former Cooke Elementary School site has garnered strong public support. The city acquired the property in December 2022 with the intent of converting the vacant lot into a vibrant community space. This new park will be a welcome addition to Galesburg, complementing other recent and ongoing park improvements funded by previous OSLAD grants, including upgrades to H.T. Custer Park and Lancaster Park.

The park's development marks a significant step in Galesburg's ongoing efforts to enhance public recreational facilities and green spaces, promoting healthier lifestyles and greater community engagement. For more details about the project and other park developments in Galesburg, residents are encouraged to participate in upcoming public meetings or visit the city's official website.