Naperville Park District to Receive $600,000 State Grant for Nike Sports Complex

Thursday, January 15, 2026

On Wednesday, January 14, 2026, the Naperville Park District learned it was selected to receive a $600,000 Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant from the State of Illinois. Funds from the grant will help support planned improvements at Nike Sports Complex, located at 288 W. Diehl Road.

“Since I became Governor, it’s been my mission to build stronger, healthier communities across Illinois,” said Governor JB Pritzker in a statement. “Through the OSLAD program, we’re bringing that vision to life by awarding over $36 million to local park projects, expanding green spaces and creating new recreational opportunities for all.”

Established by the Illinois General Assembly in 1986, OSLAD is a cost-sharing program between state and local governments that helps communities fund land acquisition and development for parks and outdoor recreation projects. It’s become one of the most popular grant programs in Illinois. Since its establishment, OSLAD has awarded $640 million for park projects throughout Illinois.

“The OSLAD grant program provides critical matching funds to park districts, forest preserves, conservation districts, and other local agencies to acquire open space and to develop and improve outdoor recreational facilities,” said Brad Wilson, Naperville Park District Executive Director.  “We’re extremely appreciative to receive the OSLAD grant to assist with completing improvements to Nike Sports Complex for the benefit of the community and would like to thank state legislators and staff for their continued support of this important grant program.”

The Park District reached out to residents in 2024 and 2025 to solicit extensive community input regarding recreational improvements for all ages and abilities at Nike Sports Complex. The proposed OSLAD Grant improvements include the renovation of three (3) ballfields with new synthetic turf infields, a new 10’-wide asphalt loop trail, playground renovation and water play features, challenge course area, new shelter overlooking the existing cricket field, and new native restoration areas with interpretive signage.  

Once a grant agreement is finalized, the Park District plans to begin developing project construction and bid documents in 2026. Construction of improvements are anticipated to take place beginning in late 2026 through 2028. For additional details on site improvements planned at Nike Sports Complex, visit www.napervilleparks.org/location/nikesportscomplex.