In a move that promises to revitalize the recreational landscape of Glen Carbon, the village is making significant strides in the development of Schon Park's Phase 3 project. This ambitious undertaking aims to introduce a comprehensive sports complex, featuring a diverse array of amenities that cater to the community's evolving needs and preferences.
Unlocking a New Era of Outdoor Recreation in Glen Carbon
Schon Park's Phase 3: A Multifaceted Sports Complex Takes Shape
The Schon Park Phase 3 project is poised to transform the village's recreational landscape, offering a diverse range of activities for residents and visitors alike. According to Public Works Director Scott Slemer, the project will include the development of tennis courts, pickleball courts, and basketball courts, seamlessly integrated with the existing parks system. This strategic expansion aligns with the village's Parks and Trails Master Plan, ensuring a cohesive and accessible network of outdoor recreational facilities.The project's scope extends beyond the sports complex, as the village also plans to incorporate connecting paths that will enhance the overall user experience and promote a sense of community. By integrating these new features with the existing parks system, Glen Carbon is positioning itself as a hub for diverse outdoor recreation, catering to the evolving preferences of its residents.
Navigating the Funding Landscape: Securing Grants for Schon Park's Transformation
To bring this ambitious project to fruition, the Village of Glen Carbon is actively pursuing funding opportunities through the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grants for the 2025 fiscal year. These grants, which are administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), are designed to support the development and improvement of public outdoor recreation areas.According to the village's plan, the OSLAD grants are expected to reimburse up to 50% of the project's total cost, up to a maximum of 0,000. This strategic approach to funding not only reduces the financial burden on the village but also ensures that the community's investment in Schon Park's Phase 3 is maximized, delivering the greatest possible return in terms of enhanced recreational opportunities.
Overcoming Deed Restrictions: A Creative Solution for Securing Grant Funding
One of the key challenges faced by the village in securing grant funding for the Schon Park project was the presence of deed restrictions on the majority of the park's land. When the Schon family sold the land to the village in 2010, certain restrictions were put in place, limiting the use of the park to "passive recreation" activities such as picnics, walking, hiking, and wildlife viewing.To overcome this obstacle and satisfy the IDNR's regulations, the Village Board has approved a resolution to create a minor subdivision within Schon Park. This strategic move will separate the northeastern quadrant of the park, which was previously designated for more active recreation, into a distinct parcel of land. By doing so, the village hopes to secure the necessary grant funding from the IDNR, as the agency has stated that it will not approve funding for properties with any deed restrictions, even with documented exemptions.
Embracing the Future of Outdoor Recreation in Glen Carbon
The Schon Park Phase 3 project represents a significant milestone in Glen Carbon's ongoing efforts to enhance the community's recreational offerings. By introducing a comprehensive sports complex, complete with tennis, pickleball, and basketball courts, the village is poised to cater to the diverse interests and needs of its residents.This transformative project not only promises to revitalize the local recreational landscape but also serves as a testament to the village's commitment to providing its community with world-class outdoor amenities. As the project progresses, the residents of Glen Carbon can look forward to a future where their recreational aspirations are seamlessly woven into the fabric of their vibrant community.
