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Urbana Park District reviews CU Special Recreation budget, highlights program expansions and inclusion efforts
Summary
At its March 10 meeting the Urbana Park District Board of Commissioners received an informational review of the CU Special Recreation (CUSR) 2026–27 budget, heard plans for expanded adult‑day programming, new capital projects and a new bus, and was told inclusion assistance and summer programming remain in high demand.
The Urbana Park District Board of Commissioners on March 10 received an informational review of the CU Special Recreation (CUSR) 2026–27 budget and program priorities, with staff emphasizing inclusion services, a planned capital project, and expanding adult programming.
Presenter (Champaign Park District) (S5) told the Board that the CUSR budget is approved by the Champaign Park District but the presentation tonight was intended to inform Urbana’s Board. "It's not lost on us that you dedicate and allocate ADA funds every year to support individuals with disabilities," the presenter said, thanking the Board for prioritizing ADA and inclusion work. The presenter also acknowledged longtime staff and incoming staff who have supported service continuity.
The presentation listed several program and capital highlights. Staff announced procurement of a new district bus that will receive a full wrap to increase visibility of inclusion efforts, and said the theater program received a community foundation grant and a $2,500 donation from participant Jennifer Roscoe to buy lighting and sound equipment. A major capital project described as an "IVR OS Lite"–supported project was said to be nearing approval and expected to go to bid, with staff hoping construction will occur this summer and be complete before the school year ends; staff gave an April 14 target for readiness to move to bid.
On programming, staff described an expansion of the adult day program that will add hours on some days (moving some days from three to five hours) and create additional respite and adult‑service opportunities. To cover administrative needs after an office manager left, the presenter said the district plans to reallocate funds to two part‑time positions (one in adult programming and one in youth programming) and to create a new part‑time director role to provide direct program support.
Staff repeatedly cited capacity constraints: after‑school programs and summer camp registrations are outpacing available spots, with wait lists for multiple offerings. Presenter (S5) said staff have increased outreach to school districts and special‑education staff to anticipate needs earlier and reduce last‑minute inclusion requests.
Why it matters: CUSR is a core inclusion program for people with disabilities in the Urbana/Champaign area; the budget and staffing changes described affect program capacity, accessibility and the district’s ability to provide respite and therapeutic recreation.
The Board did not take formal action on the CUSR budget at this meeting; the presentation was characterized as informational and staff invited follow‑up questions and coordination with the district’s finance director.
