The Chicago Park District is showing its commitment to Chicago families and neighborhoods with its newly approved $545.9 million budget for 2023.

The budget; which includes the expansion of youth programs, enhancements to community parks and paid parental leave—with the latter being the first in the district—was approved by the Chicago Park District Board of Commissioners at the last meeting of the year; a December news release from the district said.

“On behalf of the Park District and the communities we serve, I’d like to thank the Board for their support and approval of the 2023 Budget,” Rosa Escareño, general superintendent and CEO, said at the meeting, as stated in the release. “This responsible yet sound financial plan prioritizes the needs of the families and communities we serve in an equitable manner while strengthening the District and supporting our valuable and dedicated workforce. We look forward to working with the Board, community stakeholders and partners to continue building even better, stronger parks and neighborhoods in the coming year.”

The release stated that the budget was up 6.7% from last year to account for rising operational costs, local parks investments and district personnel.

Along with the budget, the board also approved Juneteenth as a paid holiday and accepted the contracts for Americans with Disabilities Act upgrades at various park fieldhouses.