Storybook Trail Grant

The Storybook Trail Grant is administered by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) as part of the broader federally supported Recreational Trails Program (RTP). This program is funded through federal transportation-related allocations and administered at the state level to support recreational trail development and enhancement. The Storybook Trail component is a specialized funding opportunity designed to promote literacy, outdoor recreation, and family-friendly community engagement by integrating children’s literature into outdoor trail experiences. The primary purpose of the Storybook Trail Grant is to fund the development of outdoor trails that feature pages from children’s books displayed along the path, encouraging reading and physical activity simultaneously. These projects are intended to enhance public recreational spaces while providing educational benefits, particularly for children and families. Eligible projects may include the installation of interpretive signage, trail enhancements, and associated infrastructure that supports safe and accessible use of the trail environment. Funding for the Storybook Trail Grant is structured as a reimbursement program, meaning recipients must initially cover project costs and then seek reimbursement for eligible expenses. The program reimburses up to 80 percent of approved project costs, with the remaining 20 percent required as a match from the project sponsor. For the 2026 cycle, a total of $50,000 is allocated specifically for Storybook Trail projects, with individual awards ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 per project. Matching contributions may include cash, in-kind labor, or donated materials, provided they meet program guidelines and are properly documented. Eligibility for this grant is broad and includes a range of public and nonprofit entities such as cities, counties, townships, park districts, state and federal agencies, and nonprofit organizations. Applicants must demonstrate control of the project site through ownership, lease, or easement and must ensure compliance with federal regulations, including accessibility standards and environmental requirements. Projects must also align with program goals related to recreational access, safety, and environmental stewardship. The application process requires submission of a completed application form along with supporting documentation, including project descriptions, cost estimates, maps, and evidence of matching funds. Applications may be submitted electronically or by mail, but must include original signatures and meet all completeness requirements. The deadline for the 2026 application cycle is July 6, 2026. Late submissions are not accepted, and applicants are encouraged to retain copies of all materials submitted. Applications undergo a competitive review process that includes eligibility screening, site visits, and scoring by professional staff based on criteria such as project need, accessibility, cost reasonableness, and community impact. Final funding decisions are approved by ODNR leadership. Award notifications are typically issued in late September, and selected projects must enter into a formal agreement before beginning work. Projects are generally expected to be completed within approximately 15 months of contract execution. For additional information or assistance, applicants may contact the program manager at ODNR. The program operates on an annual cycle, and applicants who are not selected may reapply in subsequent funding rounds. The grant emphasizes high-quality, durable installations and encourages partnerships, public participation, and thoughtful planning to maximize community benefit and long-term sustainability.

Focus on clearly demonstrating community need, provide strong documentation of matching funds, emphasize accessibility and family-friendly design, and ensure detailed cost justification aligned with similar projects