Siguler Guff & Company’s Post

Great News for Sharon's Bay Park in New Lenox Governor Pritzker announced the 2025 OSLAD Grant award recipients in December, totaling $55.2 million. The New Lenox Community Park District (NLCPD) received $600,000 to renovate Sharon’s Bay Park. NLCPD is proud to be one of only two park districts in Will County to receive this substantial grant. The redevelopment plan includes creating three modern play zones tailored to various age groups, ensuring fun and safe recreational opportunities for children, teens, and families. The renovation also features a high school regulation basketball court, an upgraded volleyball court, and the addition of the innovative “Tween Central Social Hub,” designed with fitness equipment and social spaces for local tweens. The renovation also incorporates shoreline enhancements, beautifying the park and serving as a resource for environmental education. These improvements will create a welcoming space for ADA-accessible fishing and nature appreciation, fostering a deeper connection to the environment for park visitors. #expertsatplay, #designexcellence, #parks, #recreation, #recreationlandscape, #newlenox, #illinoisparks, #greenspace, #outdoors

West Sacramento's Bryte Park is set for a major transformation with $15 million in federal funding. This exciting development, announced by Congresswoman Doris Matsui, will bring significant improvements to our community's green space and recreational facilities. Key upgrades include: - 🌳 All-weather soccer field - 🏊 Modern aquatics facility - 📅 Versatile outdoor amphitheater - 🐾 Community-focused dog park - 🏞️ Expansive green space These enhancements align with urban planning best practices, underlining the importance of accessible recreational spaces in fostering healthier lifestyles and stronger community bonds. We're looking forward to seeing the positive impacts this project will have on local businesses, property values, and the overall quality of life. #BrytePark #WestSacramento #UrbanDevelopment #CommunityEngagement #FederalGrants #GreenSpaces CA DRE # 02023430

Please see my column from The Apopka Voice this week As is my practice, during summer, I conduct a preliminary assessment of the four streets competing for Corridor of the Year. I provide feedback for the teams - People of Lockhart, People of Southern Apopka, People of Wekiwa Springs, and People of Clarcona-Ocoee. I’m still hoping for a fifth team representing northern Apopka. Lots of work could be done along Lester Road. I’m just waiting on you. I assist and plan strategies during the first half of the year in collaboration with the teams. However, the final two months the “people groups” must plan their own strategies to increase points. I have found that the neighborhood entranceways without HOAs take the most work and require the most volunteers. However, mandatory HOAs have a harder time attracting people. Thus, mandatory HOAs lose points in the engagement category, while generally posting higher base scores. The judges in November will look at law enforcement safety standards. Here are the total expectations for the friendly competition. Pressure-washed sidewalks, trees trimmed up at least six feet, hedges trimmed down under three feet, grass mowed and the absence of trash, walls clean, entranceway signage in good condition, and finally, some amount of healthy landscaping and fresh mulch at each entranceway. Five points out of 30 can additionally be earned if residents volunteer. People of Southern Apopka have held four clean-ups on Sheeler Ave north of Apopka Blvd. Everyone I speak with is impressed with the progress. Trees have been trimmed, hedges cut back, and new sidewalks installed. The team is led by Pam Welker, Sharon Lust, Justin Dierks, Tracy Hollingsworth, and Dave Durre. Sheeler Avenue and Road is very long. Plus, the Lockhart Team is tough to beat. If you live in this Sheeler Road or southeastern area of Apopka, please call my office at 407.836.5850 or email me at District2@ocfl.net. I will get you in touch with the leaders of POSA. Heading south, is a mish mash of jurisdictions. I think we need to have the attitude that if it needs fixing – just do it. The three lowest scoring neighborhoods were Royal Oaks, Dunbridge, and Silver Oaks. I would expect the team to focus on recruiting residents from these three neighborhoods and scheduling clean-ups in September and October. Royal Oaks is likely to take two Saturdays with so much frontage. The railroad section also needs weed whacking and weed control. Both gas stations need a nudge. Go talk to the managers and tell them about the contest. Maintenance is the name of the game. The Corridor of the Year Contest is about making maintenance a social, fun, engaging, and rewarding experience. If you like gardening or simply making sure your neighborhood always looks its best – “We Need You!”.

The rising cost of living is affecting many residents in the Cotswold District. If you're experiencing financial difficulties, several support options are available: Household Support Fund: This fund assists households with essential costs such as food, energy, and water bills. Eligibility varies, so it's advisable to contact Citizens Advice Stroud and Cotswolds for guidance. ([Cotswold District Council](https://lnkd.in/eyKSjePF)) Council Tax Support: If you're on a low income or receiving certain benefits, you may qualify for reduced Council Tax payments. More information is available on the Cotswold District Council's website. ([Cotswold District Council](https://lnkd.in/e53sqwC2)) Discretionary Housing Payment: If Housing Benefit or Universal Credit doesn't cover all your rent, you might be eligible for additional support. Details can be found on the council's website. ([Cotswold District Council](https://lnkd.in/eyKSjePF)) Community Support: Cotswold Connected Community and Food Programme: This initiative funds community projects aimed at tackling local inequalities and strengthening community resilience. While the initial funding has been allocated, staying informed about future opportunities is beneficial. ([Cotswold News](https://lnkd.in/e_b_qFQD)) Local Foodbanks: If you're struggling to afford food, local foodbanks can provide assistance. Information about foodbanks in the Cirencester area is available on the council's website. ([Cotswold District Council](https://lnkd.in/eWSB2Mby)) Additional Resources: Energy Efficiency Advice: The Warm and Well service offers free advice on improving your home's energy efficiency, which can help reduce bills. Contact them at 0800 500 3076. https://lnkd.in/eyKSjePF)) Mental Health Support: Looking after your mental health is crucial during challenging times. Resources like Every Mind Matters provide practical steps to support your wellbeing.(https://lnkd.in/eyKSjePF)) For comprehensive information and to explore all available support options, please visit the Cotswold District Council's dedicated cost of living support page. https://lnkd.in/eyKSjePF)) If you have further questions or need personalised assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to local support services or the council directly.

After recently started on a renovation on one of our single family houses, a young couple tracked us down on social media and told us they saw the signs out front and are eager to live in that area. After much conversation we realized that this house might be the perfect place for them specifically and are in the process of potentially tailoring the renovation to their preferences, and within their affordable budget! Every day at AJ Otter, we are reminded of our mission: "Building Better Communities One House At A Time." Building better communities doesn't happen all at once. It starts with small things to impact the community around us . . . one house at a time. #BuildingBetterCommunities

Cherry Hills Village

#EDCInvestor Lakewood Ranch announced that Star Farms will be the largest community in Lakewood Ranch with the addition of “Saddlestone” by Forestar Group Inc. Forestar, one of the largest single-family residential community developers in the nation, said Saddlestone adds more than 570 acres and 1,300 homesites to Star Farms. With this new addition, Star Farms encompasses nearly 1,300 acres and 2,800 lots. #EconDev #BradentonArea https://hubs.ly/Q02ZTksp0

As park and recreation professionals, we often undertake projects that aim to transform and enhance the quality of life in communities, especially those that have historically been underserved. The story of Lewisville highlights how thoughtful planning and authentic collaboration can create parks that transform communities. By turning plans into parks, Lewisville has brought recreational opportunities, social connection, and economic vitality to its neighborhoods. As cities across the country strive to create more equitable park systems, the lessons from Lewisville offer valuable insights. Read the full blog from Clement Lau: https://bit.ly/4fMT4QF #PowerOfParks #ParkAccess #OpenSpaceBlog #ParksAndRec

East Pine is a place for families to thrive! With nearby parks, schools, and recreational facilities, everything you need for your family’s happiness is right here :) Move to Beaumont and create memories that will last a lifetime. #Beaumont #LuxuryTownhomes #community #Landrex #yeg #Edmonton

Roxbury Township. Horseshoe Lake Great community