Illinois eyes smarter park funding: handicap accessibility gets priority

(The Center Square) – Illinois lawmakers are proposing a change to the way state parks receive funding, one that could give taxpayers more bang for their buck, according to the bill’s sponsor.

Senate Bill 3016, sponsored by state Sen. Don Dewitte, R-St. Charles, would amend the Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development Act to prioritize grants for park projects that go above and beyond federal accessibility standards, ensuring state funds serve the broadest range of children, including those with disabilities.

“Every project needs to stand on its own, but those who incorporate handicap accessibility into their park designs should be prioritized,” Dewitte said. “This isn’t going to cost taxpayers more. The OSLAD funding stays the same. It’s just a smarter way to award grants so more kids can use the parks.”

The bill, orig...