The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) announced grant awards this week for the State’s FY 2019 Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development (OSLAD).  The City of Kankakee submitted a project for land acquisition to support the implementation of the Riverfront Master Plan which was adopted by the city council during July 2018.

In addition to submitting an application, all finalists were required to make a presentation to the selections committee.  Mayor Chasity Wells-Armstrong made the presentation on January 22, 2019 and was advised a decision would be made and notices provided during the spring.

“Needless to say, I am very excited about this award.  I believe the quick turnaround from the presentation to the notice of award speaks to Governor Pritzker’s commitment to supporting municipalities who are seeking to maximize the potential of natural resources.  The $134,000 grant will be used to acquire additional properties within the footprint of the Riverfront Master Plan and keep in line with the Kankakee Forward agenda which is to stimulate economic development, enhance recreation, and beautify much of our unused riverfront,” according to Wells-Armstrong.

The City’s Riverwalk project was one of 89 local outdoor recreation projects representing approximately $28,974,500 in funding assistance approved by the IDNR for FY 2019 OSLAD funds.  Next steps include an overview of compliance responsibilities, the approval of a Notice of State Award, and the execution of a grant agreement.

For more information, contact Mayor Wells-Armstrong’s office at (815) 933-0500.  Visit us at citykankakee-il.gov.

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