Huntley Park District and Village of Huntley Receive IAPD Intergovernmental Cooperation Award for Community Park Partnership
HUNTLEY, IL — The Huntley Park District and the Village of Huntley have been recognized with the Intergovernmental Cooperation Award from the Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) for their collaborative efforts to acquire land for a future Community Park. The award was presented Friday, October 9, at the Best of the Best Gala in Wheeling, Illinois.
The award recognizes the two agencies for their outstanding partnership in securing and providing initial planning for 153 acres of land for a future community park, demonstrating how collaboration between local government agencies can maximize public resources and create lasting benefits for residents.
When asked about the award Huntley Park District Board President, Keith Wold said, “This award is a testament to what can be accomplished when local government agencies work together toward a shared vision. Our partnership with the Village of Huntley has allowed us to preserve valuable open space, expand recreational opportunities, and make a meaningful investment in the future of our community. We are proud of the collaboration that has brought this project forward and grateful to everyone who has helped make it possible.”
The IAPD Intergovernmental Cooperation Award recognizes park districts, forest preserves, conservation districts, recreation and special recreation agencies, and the units of government that have collaborated for success. These groups have formed intergovernmental agreements to maximize tax dollars and benefit residents throughout the community.
The Village of Huntley and Huntley Park District transformed a land opportunity into a lasting community investment. Following the identification of a need for additional parkland, the agencies collaborated to secure 153 acres. Together, they evaluated the property, developed preliminary long-range plans, and preserved valuable open space while supporting infrastructure goals.
“Knowing the Park District was seeking new land for a community park, the Village identified this opportunity and helped coordinate this acquisition for the future of our community,” said Village of Huntley President, Tim Hoeft.
The Park District further grew the impact of this acquisition by securing a $600,000 Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant toward the $1.8 million first phase of the project. Planned amenities include athletic fields, trails, community gardens, a shelter, and a ninja course, creating a destination for recreation, outdoor exploration, and community connection. The park construction is scheduled to begin in the Spring of 2027.
As the project continues to move forward, the Huntley Park District and the Village of Huntley invite the community to attend a special Park Naming event on Thursday, October 29, at 4:00 p.m. The event will take place at 11251 Kreutzer Road in Huntley and will provide an opportunity for community members to celebrate this important milestone in the development of the park.
The Community Park represents a significant investment in Huntley's future, providing additional opportunities for residents to enjoy the outdoors, participate in recreational activities, and connect with their community. The project exemplifies the power of intergovernmental cooperation to maximize public resources while creating meaningful, long-term benefits for generations of Huntley residents.
The Huntley Park District extends its appreciation to the Village of Huntley, the local landowner who generously donated a significant portion of the property, and all partners who have contributed to advancing the Community Park project.
For more information about the Community Park project and other park improvements, visit www.huntleyparks.org.
About the Huntley Park District
The Huntley Park District is dedicated to providing exceptional parks, facilities, programs, and recreational opportunities that enhance the quality of life for the Huntley community. Through thoughtful planning, community partnerships, and a commitment to preserving open space, the District strives to create opportunities for residents of all ages to connect, play, and thrive.