The Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) Program is a state-financed grant program that provides funding assistance to local government agencies for acquisition and/or development of land for public parks and open space. Projects vary from small neighborhood parks or tot lots to large community and county parks and nature areas.

The Governor recently signed legislation encouraging communities seeking Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grants to incorporate accessible and universal design into park and recreation projects. 525 ILCS 35/5.5 becomes effective 1-1-2027 and requires the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to adopt rules prioritizing grant applications for projects that incorporate “universal design elements”. “Universal design elements” include, but are not limited to, the following elements:

• poured-in-place rubber surfacing or synthetic turf for enhanced mobility and continuously accessible surfacing routes;
• multiple access points and routes suitable for wheelchairs, including additional ramps for seamless entry to play equipment;
• a variety of ground-level and elevated play components accessible to individuals with diverse physical abilities;
• inclusive swings and seating;
• a variety of single and multi-sensory play elements, such as tactile panels and musical features;
• shaded areas to accommodate individuals with sensory sensitivities; and
• any other construction, material, design, product, or technology as set out in administrative rule.

Those who are considering OSLAD grants in the parks and recreation sphere should bear this new legislation in mind as they draft their applications. OSLAD grants are available to units of local government that are authorized by Illinois law to expend public funds for the acquisition and development of land for public outdoor park, recreation, or conservation purposes.  However, school districts are not eligible.

For more information about this article, contact Tressler attorney John O’Driscoll at jodriscoll@tresslerllp.com.

About the Author

John is a partner and Co-Chair of Tressler’s Local Government Law practice. His practice includes providing general counsel services to local governmental bodies such as cities and villages, library districts and libraries, school districts, and park districts. John handles a wide variety of issues such as day-to-day operations, contract negotiations and breaches, construction terms, employment issues, tort liability defense, referenda items, negotiations, ordinance drafting and violations, “sunshine laws” compliance, and other general counsel items. Click here to read John’s full attorney bio.