Plainfield Township, IL – The Plainfield Township Park District in Will County is set to receive $200,000 for acquiring 6.5 acres along the DuPage River, enhancing the DuPage River Trail. This funding, part of nearly $2.4 million in grants shared among eight Illinois communities, was announced by Gov. JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). These grants, sourced from the National Park Service’s Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), aim to expand outdoor recreational opportunities across the state.
According to IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie, this initiative underscores the importance of conserving and providing access to natural spaces. The DuPage River Trail project in Plainfield is particularly noteworthy for its role in connecting communities and employment centers in Will County. It’s expected to link Naperville and Channahon, enhancing access to regional retail, parks, and recreational areas.
Wheaton Park District in DuPage County will also benefit, receiving $60,000 to acquire a strategically located 0.78-acre parcel adjacent to Lincoln Marsh. This acquisition will bolster the park’s connectivity and accessibility.
These projects reflect Illinois’ commitment to preserving natural landscapes and promoting healthy lifestyles through outdoor activities. The LWCF, established in 1965, supports such initiatives by utilizing revenue from federal oil and gas leases on the Outer Continental Shelf. The combined local and federal funds are set to support over $5.4 million in park land acquisitions statewide, marking a significant investment in Illinois’ green spaces.
