By Madhu Mayer
The state has made it possible for residents in Plainfield, Joliet, Crest Hill, Lockport communities to continue receiving benefit from the recreational amenities available in Will County.
The Plainfield Park District has been awarded an Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant 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 the larger community parks,” said 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.”
The park district’s boundary includes Joliet and Plainfield.
OSLAD grants provide up to one-half of a project’s revenue, 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 the park; and expand recreational and educational opportunities.
Project elements include replacement of the playground at Van Horn Woods East, which is an area part of the larger Van Horn Woods natural resources area located on the east side of the Lily Creek that flows through the park and accessible from Frontage Road near Caton Farm Road. Other enhancements include fishing pier improvements; shoreline restoration; fitness pods; permanent fixtures at the bike park; pollinator garden; disc golf course; and expanded trails throughout the park.
Among area residents who regularly visits Van Horn Woods with her children is Lillian Ramos of Crest Hill. She said it is a perfect getaway on a hot summer day with her two children.
“It is such a nice spot to have a picnic or watch them play,” said Ramos. “Some of the playground equipment is getting old so I am glad to hear they are going to replace the units at Van Horn Woods East. With inflation the way it is, families like us rely on free parks for our recreation activities.”
Input on the project’s elements were received at a public meeting last August. OSLAD grants require funded parks to be completed within two years of receiving the grant.
