SALEM — Governor JB Pritzker announced $29.7 million in grants Friday for 85 recreational projects across the state, including a more than $200,000 grant to help the City of Salem develop an inclusive playground at Bryan Memorial Park.

Pritzker said parks projects boost local economic development efforts and spur additional investment throughout the state.

He also said investments in local park projects are good for families and recreation enthusiasts, helping them enjoy outdoor activities and making Illinois communities better places to live and work.

The grants announced Friday are funded through the state’s Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) program, administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). The OSLAD program can provide up to one-half of a project’s funds.

The $210,700 awarded to the City of Salem will mark half of the planned Addy and Friends Inclusive Playground project in Salem.

The plan for this playground includes ADA accessible parking, ramp, and sidewalks, solid soft playground surfacing that provides fall relief while enabling access with wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers.

Ultimately, the playground is expected to provide a safe place where children of all abilities can play together and are developmentally appropriate for children with and without disabilities, as well as seniors, or others with any mobility issue.