Site Improvements

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has released a grant opportunity under its Grants Management Program focused on capital site improvements. Administered through state funding authorized by the Illinois General Assembly and governed by the Build Illinois Bond Act, this one-time initiative offers $3.5 million to support infrastructure enhancements in Prairie Park and Weaver Park in Urbana, Illinois. The program's overarching goal is to improve the quality of life for Illinois residents through strategic capital investments in community infrastructure. Eligible applicants must be park districts located within municipalities of at least 40,000 residents based on the 2010 U.S. Census. These entities must also have jurisdiction to complete the specified improvements. Applicants must be registered in the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) portal and demonstrate valid registration with SAM.gov, a UEI number, and be in good standing with the Illinois Secretary of State. Applications from organizations on debarment or stop-payment lists will be disqualified. Funds are strictly limited to eligible capital expenditures under the Build Illinois Bond Act. Indirect costs, administrative overhead, and general operations are not covered. Allowable uses include infrastructure construction, real property acquisition, and associated costs such as down payments or debt reduction—provided such uses are consistent with bond guidelines. Compliance with various state labor and environmental laws is required, including the Prevailing Wage Act, Illinois Works Apprenticeship Initiative, and Employment of Illinois Workers on Public Works Act. These regulations emphasize workforce inclusion and local labor prioritization. Applications must include a completed uniform grant application, project narrative, budget forms, IRS documentation, and other disclosures. The project narrative must articulate the scope, cost breakdown, economic and community impact, timeline, and applicant capacity to execute the project. Submission must be completed electronically by 5:00 p.m. on January 5, 2026. No technical assistance sessions are planned. Grant proposals will undergo a merit-based review process. Applications are scored across four weighted criteria: capacity (40 points), economic impact (30 points), community need (15 points), and project quality (15 points). Awards are expected approximately three months following the application deadline. If awarded, grantees must adhere to quarterly reporting requirements and submit financial and performance data, including a final closeout report 45 days post-performance period. The Department reserves the right to determine award terms and conduct fiscal and programmatic monitoring throughout the grant period.

Detail project scope and timeline clearly; ensure full budget detail; adhere to bondable cost limits; ensure all registrations are current before submission