Champaign Park District today announced that it has been selected to receive a $600,000 Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant from the State of Illinois. The grant funds will be used to create an inclusive play area and circle drive at the CUSR Center.
Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) awarded a total of $55.2 million to 100 communities for local park development projects as part of the latest round of OSLAD grants.
“Since I became Governor, it’s been my mission to build stronger, healthier communities across Illinois,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Through the OSLAD program, we’re bringing that vision to life by awarding over $55.2 million to local park projects, expanding green spaces and creating new recreational opportunities for all.”
Established by the Illinois General Assembly in 1986, OSLAD is a cost-sharing program between state and local governments that helps communities fund land acquisition and development for parks and outdoor recreation projects. It’s become one of the most popular grant programs in Illinois. Since its establishment, OSLAD has awarded $640 million for park projects throughout Illinois (including the awards announced in December 2024).
Champaign Park District’s OSLAD funding will go toward creating the All Abilities Activities Hub—an accessible outdoor space that prioritizes inclusion for people of all abilities and ages. The space will offer opportunities for educational and clinical therapies and will be designed to support community engagement, connections with nature, and enrichment with exercise and play equipment.
The All Abilities Activities Hub will be built directly north of the CUSR Center in Centennial Park at 2212 Sangamon Drive, and the projected completion date is May 2027.
In addition to the All Abilities Activities Hub, the grant will fund the construction of a circle drive in front CUSR Center for easy bus pick-up and drop-off, accessible pathways to the rear of the building, and walking paths to select exercise and play equipment. The new drive and pathways will increase pedestrian safety along Sangamon Drive during peak traffic times.
“The All Abilities Activities Hub marks a significant milestone in fostering inclusivity and safety at Centennial Park and the CUSR Center,” said Sarah Sandquist, Champaign Park District Executive Director. “This project paves the way for enhanced accessibility and inclusivity in one of our community’s most cherished parks.”
The All Abilities Activities Hub will be a collaborative project between Champaign Park District, Urbana Park District, City of Champaign, and Unit 4 School District.
Learn more about CUSR: CUSR: Champaign-Urbana Special Recreation
