FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 15, 2026
Galva Park District receives Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant for developing public parks and outdoor recreational space.
[Galva, IL] – Galva 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 for renovations and new amenities on the Park District grounds.
Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) awarded a total of $36 million to 67 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 $36 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 today).
“The Park District was thrilled to be one of the recipients of the 2025 OSLAD grant.” Said Doug Anderson, Superintendent at the Galva Park District. “These funds will help renovate deteriorating infrastructure that will allow the GPD to continue to meet it’s community’s needs.”
The funds will be used to:
update chain link/backstop fencing around the baseball/softball fields
update lighting and concrete around the baseball/softball fields
upgrade the batting cages
add an ADA lift to the pool
renovate the flooring base of the tennis/pickleball courts and tennis court shelter
add new trash receptacles, grills, drinking fountains and trees
fix aging sidewalks in need of repair
add additional walking path of approximately 950’ in the south field
