The Urbana Park District is set to breathe new life into King Park, thanks to a substantial $600,000 grant awarded by the State of Illinois. This funding is part of the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development initiative.

To maximize the impact of the state grant, the Urbana Park District has committed to matching the funds, bringing the total investment for the King Park revitalization project to $1.2 million. This financial boost promises significant improvements to the area, enhancing community spaces for residents and visitors alike.

Updated: Jan 26, 2026 / 08:15 PM CST

URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — The Urbana Park District has received a $600,000 grant from the State of Illinois to revitalize King Park.

The money is coming from the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant. The Urbana Park District will match that grant, and the project will cost $1.2 million total.

Officials said the King Revitalization Project will transform the park into an inclusive space where community members can gathering. There will be a new playground and seating area added to the park when construction is completed.

“We want to have positive outcomes for our kids that go to King Park and positive outcomes for our adults as well,” Keenan Portis, Urbana Park Planner, said.

The city determines when to update a park by the park’s history. Portis said it has not been updated for 20 years, and he knew it was time for a change. The project is set to be finished next year.