Two federal grant programs administered by Nebraska Game and Parks Commission are accepting applications starting May 1 from communities across Nebraska for recreation improvements.
Applications for the Recreation Trails Program and Land and Water Conservation Fund are due Sept. 4, 2023. Grants recommended for approval will be announced at the January 2024 Commission meeting.
The Recreational Trails Program is a grant program through the Federal Highway Administration that reimburses political subdivisions — such as communities, counties and natural resources districts — up to $250,000 or 80% of project costs for trail acquisition, development, renovation and support facilities.
The Land and Water Conservation Fund, a program administered by the National Park Service, provides matching funds for outdoor recreation projects.
Eligible projects include, but are not limited to, swimming pools, picnicking facilities, sports fields, playgrounds, pool renovations, splash pads, park acquisitions and development, wildlife viewing facilities, fishing access, adventure spots (such as ziplines and rock-climbing) and park-related support facilities.
All projects must encourage outdoor recreation.
To apply and get more information, visit ngpcgrants.outdoornebraska.gov