OAK LAWN – State Senator Bill Cunningham announced that the Oak Lawn Park District is set to receive $2.1 million in state funding to remodel the Memorial Park Recreation Center.

“Investing in public recreation is about investing in the well-being and shared experiences of every member of our community,” said Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. “I will continue to push the state to provide more funding for local projects.”

The proposed remodel of the Memorial Park Recreation Center will include converting smaller rooms, such as locker rooms, shower facilities and storage areas, into larger multi-purpose rooms and new restrooms. The entry vestibule will be changed to a lobby and reception area.

“We’ve had great success this past year with getting grants to offset the cost to the taxpayer for some exciting, high-profile projects,” said Tom Hartwig, Oak Lawn Park District Executive Director. “This added space allows us to expand our program offerings and utilize a space that has sat dormant for years.”

The funding comes from the Park and Recreational Facility Construction grant program, which is part of the Rebuild Illinois capital improvement program. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources administers the program.

For more information about the PARC grant program, visit the IDNR website.