Orland Park accepts $500,000 DCEO reimbursable grant to repair athletic courts at six parks

The Orland Park Village Board voted May 18 to accept a $500,000 reimbursable grant from the Build Illinois Build Fund administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to repair athletic courts and fences at six village parks.

Trustee Lawler moved to authorize use of the DCEO grant for the project, which staff said is fully reimbursable and requires a future budget amendment to record the expenses before seeking reimbursement. "We were informed that we are the recipients or will be the recipients of a $500,000 grant from...the Build Illinois Build Fund through the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity," a village staff member identified during the presentation said, noting the grant is administered as reimbursement and is non-match funding.

The grant will fund repairs at Eagle Ridge, Veterans, Discovery Park, Dugan Park, Long Creek Park, and Emerald States Park. Staff said the work is expected to begin in June and be completed in 2026 to meet the grant timeline.

"I think this is a fabulous grant and it's going to be much appreciated," Trustee Healey said during discussion, praising the anticipated improvements and the staff and outside lobby efforts that helped secure the award. The presentation also recognized Representative Mary Gill of the 35th District and lobbyist Matt O'Shea for assisting in securing the funding.

Board members approved the motion by roll call. Trustees present voted in favor; no dissenting votes were recorded on the roll call.

Next steps: staff will bring a budget amendment forward so the village can record eligible project expenses and seek reimbursement under the DCEO program. The board’s approval authorizes staff to proceed with project planning and procurement consistent with grant requirements.