$2.8M Grant Awarded To Batavia Park District For New Recreation Center

BATAVIA, IL — The Illinois Department of Natural Resources made a multi-million dollar investment into the Batavia Park District, awarding the organization $2.8 million for a new recreation center.

Granted through the Park and Recreational Facilities Construction Program, the money will be used to transform a commercial office building into a community recreation center with indoor activities and community events. The program provides up to 90 percent of funding assistance for local governments to acquire or develop land for recreational or public access programs, according to a news release.

The Batavia Park District was one of 13 projects awarded grant funding that totaled $28 million.

In a statement, State Rep. Matt Hanson (D-Montgomery) said the more accessible center will attract more visitors and increase opportunities for the community.

"I am extremely grateful for grant programs like these which support our local parks and community spaces," Hanson said. "IDNR's $2.8 million investment in Batavia parks will go a long way in repurposing an underutilized space."