Indian Head Park to Revamp Kelli's Playground with $385K Grant

The village will use state funding to upgrade aging equipment, add accessibility features, and enhance community spaces at the popular park.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Indian Head Park has been awarded a $385,500 grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to redevelop Sacajawea Park and Kelli's Playground, one of the village's most utilized recreational spaces. The project will replace aging playground equipment, install new ADA-compliant features, resurface walking paths, enhance landscaping, and add benches and picnic areas.

Why it matters

Kelli's Playground holds deep meaning for the community, as it was dedicated in 2012 to honor the memory of 14-year-old Kelli O'Laughlin, who was tragically murdered in 2011. The park revitalization will preserve and enhance this memorial, while also creating a more inclusive and welcoming space for residents of all ages and abilities to gather, play, and connect.

The details

The $771,000 project will be funded through the state grant and a local match from the village's capital improvement fund. Planned upgrades include new playground equipment, ADA-compliant features, resurfaced walking paths, enhanced landscaping, and the addition of benches, picnic areas, a bocce court, and a putting green. The park will need to close temporarily during construction, which is expected to be completed by spring 2027.

  • The village applied for the grant in September 2026.
  • Detailed planning and permitting could begin this spring, with bidding to follow in the fall.
  • Construction is expected to be completed by spring 2027.

The players

Gavin Morgan

The village administrator of Indian Head Park.

Amy Jo Wittenberg

The village president of Indian Head Park.

Brenda O'Laughlin

The mother of Kelli O'Laughlin, the 14-year-old girl who was murdered in 2011, and for whom Kelli's Playground is named.

Illinois Department of Natural Resources

The state agency that awarded the $385,500 grant to Indian Head Park for the Kelli's Playground redevelopment project.

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What they’re saying

“The Village Board prioritized this project because of its potential to serve a wide range of residents and because of concerns about the age and condition of the equipment.”

— Gavin Morgan, Village administrator (chicagotribune.com)

“Sacajawea Park is a beloved space with deep roots in the community, but after more than two decades, much of its infrastructure is outdated and does not meet modern standards. The playground equipment is aging and the layout is no longer well suited for multigenerational or all-abilities use. We knew the time was right to revitalize this space for future generations.”

— Amy Jo Wittenberg, Village president (chicagotribune.com)

“I am deeply touched to see continued investment in Kelli's Playground and Sacajawea Park. This space has always held special meaning for our family and for so many in the community who have kept Kelli's spirit alive through their kindness and support. Knowing that the park will be renewed and made even more welcoming for children and families means more than words can express. I am grateful to the village, IDNR and everyone involved for honoring Kelli's memory in such a beautiful and lasting way.”

— Brenda O'Laughlin (chicagotribune.com)

What’s next

Pending final authorization from the state, detailed planning and permitting could begin this spring, with bidding to follow in the fall and construction completed by spring 2027.

The takeaway

This project is about more than just physical improvements to the park - it's about preserving the memory and legacy of Kelli O'Laughlin, while also creating a more inclusive and welcoming community space for residents of all ages and abilities to gather, play, and connect. The revitalization of Kelli's Playground is a testament to the village's commitment to honoring the past while investing in the future.