Press Releases
Governor Quinn Announces $7 Million Investments for Lake and Cook County Recreation Projects
BUFFALO GROVE - Governor Pat Quinn today announced capital investments of $7 million to improve community recreational facilities in Buffalo Grove, Mundelein, Fox Lake and Rolling Meadows. Funded by his Illinois Jobs Now! construction program, the projects are part of Governor Quinn's agenda to increase recreational opportunities, create jobs and drive Illinois' economy forward.
"It's important that everyone in Illinois has a place to be active and take on a healthy lifestyle," Governor Quinn said. "These investments will give the Buffalo Grove, Mundelein, Fox Lake and Rolling Meadows communities updated recreational facilities to be enjoyed for years to come. These projects will help improve the health of the people of Illinois and create new jobs for hardworking local residents."
The Buffalo Grove Park District will receive $1,731,832 for the adaptive re-use of a 37,000-square-foot former hardware store on McHenry Road. Renovations include converting a portion of the interior space into workout and dance studio rooms, restrooms and multi-purpose activity rooms. Also included is a parking lot expansion and renovation and additional stormwater retention. The total estimated project cost is $3,185,000.
The Mundelein Park & Recreation District will receive $2,363,800, to add a new gymnasium, fitness rooms and washrooms to the Chalet Recreation Center. The project also includes renovations to the existing building. The total project cost is $3,151,745.
Fox Lake will receive $799,100 to renovate the Lakefront Park Building and Grounds on Nippersink Boulevard. Exterior building renovations will include new roofing, siding, windows and doors and interior renovations including elevator installation, locker rooms and restrooms, HVAC and lighting improvements. An outdoor splash pad and improved parking are also included. The total estimated project cost is $1,065,500.
The Rolling Meadows Park District will receive $2.25 million to completely rehabilitate the mechanical systems at the Nelson Sports Complex Ice Arena, which was built in 1971. Additional improvements include the replacement of facility windows, boiler and parking lot for overall energy efficiency and accessibility compliance. The total estimated project cost is $3 million.
The investments announced today are part of $50 million available through the Parks and Recreational Facility Construction (PARC) program, which is funded by Governor Quinn's Illinois Jobs Now! construction program. PARC provides investments to eligible local governments for park and recreation construction projects. Eligible projects include land acquisition, development, architectural planning, construction, rehabilitation and improvements. The PARC program may provide up to 75 percent of approved project costs, with the exception of local governments defined as "disadvantaged," which will be eligible for up to 90 percent funding.
"Investment in local park districts is an investment in the future of Illinois communities," Illinois Department of Natural Resources Director Marc Miller said. "These facilities in Lake and north Cook Counties will help maintain a high quality of life that is vital for attracting young families."
The park projects are part of Governor Quinn's $31 billion Illinois Jobs Now! program, which will support more than 439,000 jobs over six years. Illinois Jobs Now! is the largest construction program in Illinois history, and is one of the largest construction programs in the nation.
Press Releases