New Lenox Park District Gets Grant Award To Update Hibernia Park

NEW LENOX, IL — New Lenox residents can look forward to an updated playground and site amenities at Hibernia Park thanks to a grant from the State of Illinois for Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD).

The New Lenox Community Park District was awarded $400,000 for the upgrades to the park, which is located at 1664 Eagle Circle. The OSLAD grant is a matching grant, which means the Park District will contribute an equal amount to the project.

According to information on the Park District's website, the money will be used as part of the Hibernia Park Phase II update project. Plans for Phase II include:

• An expanded boat dock along with an Americans with Disabilities Act accessible kayak station.
• A boardwalk over a pollinator prairie connecting the open space between the current concession area and park.
• New equipment and a slip-resistant surface for the splash pad.
• The new multi-use building will be more centrally located to the park and splash pad, in addition to having washrooms and a concession stand with a pavilion.
• A bocce ball and a putting green at the west end of the park for multi-generational recreation.
• Outdoor sports and fitness equipment along the multipurpose trail that encircles the park's perimeter.

“We are thrilled to receive this grant that will allow us to expand and update the current recreational amenities while creating something new for residents,” said New Lenox Community Park District Executive Director Greg Lewis. “The planned additions will appeal to our entire community making Hibernia Park truly a destination site for New Lenox.”

The State handed out $30.3 million in OSLAD grants for 87 local park projects that will help communities acquire open space and develop and improve recreational facilities throughout Illinois, according to a new release from Gov. J.B. Pritzker's office.

"Investments in our local parks are investments in our communities," Pritzker said. "Park projects don't just create jobs and boost local economic development — they open the gateway for a healthier, happier Illinois. Every family in our state deserves nearby access to outdoor public spaces where they can gather with their friends and neighbors — and enjoy some sunshine, too."

The funding for the OSLAD grant program comes from the State of IL Real Estate transfer tax.