Frankfort Park District Utilizes Federal ARPA Funds for HVAC Upgrades

Article Summary: The Frankfort Park District is leveraging a Will County ARPA grant to fund major infrastructure needs, having already been reimbursed $72,500 for a new HVAC system at Founders Gym and now working to spend the remaining $25,000.

Park District Funding Key Points:

• The district was allocated federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant funds through Will County.

• A total of $72,500 was used for an HVAC replacement at the Founders Gym.

• Staff are now allocating the final $25,000 of the grant for additional HVAC repairs and other qualifying equipment.

The Frankfort Park District Board of Commissioners on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, received an update on its successful use of federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, which were allocated by Will County to address pandemic-related needs.

During the Executive Director’s report, it was noted that the district has been utilizing the grant to fund qualifying purchases. The most significant project funded by the grant was the complete replacement of the HVAC system for the Founders Gym, which cost $72,500 and has already been reimbursed to the district.

Park district staff are now working to spend the remaining $25,000 from the Will County ARPA grant. Reimbursement requests have been submitted for additional repairs that were required for the new HVAC system this past spring. Staff have also purchased other qualifying items to fully utilize the available funding. According to the report, the grant administration has processed the district’s submittals efficiently.

During the discussion, Commissioner Tom Barz inquired if the park district purchases supplies from local businesses like Ace Hardware, prompting a brief discussion on procurement practices.