Legacy Foundation, Lake County's community foundation, has announced $4 million in 'Love Where You Live' awards for public-space projects in seven communities across the county.
The largest award, $1 million to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana, will fund the Legacy Park & Art Walk in Gary, combining a splash pad and restored pool, pickleball courts, running track upgrades, outdoor fitness stations and an inclusive playground, with safety fencing around the playground.
Highland will receive $886,300 for Kennedy Commons, turning a long-vacant former gas station at 8436 Kennedy Avenue into green space with a community garden, a food access point, a covered shelter and public art. The South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority will receive $645,200 for the Optimist Lake Project in Hammond, near Interstate 94 and Kennedy Avenue, with boardwalks, a paved loop trail, a fishing pier and a canoe and kayak launch.
Hobart's parks department will receive $500,000 for Festival Park on Lake George, Griffith will receive $500,000 to convert its park into a year-round multi-sport site including a portable ice rink, Lowell will receive $300,000 to revive its historic town square, and New Chicago will receive $168,500 to rebuild its park basketball court.
The awards are funded through a Lilly Endowment Inc. GIFT IX grant to Legacy Foundation. Foundation president and CEO Kelly Anoe said investing in accessible public spaces strengthens the social and economic fabric of communities.
