Connecting Communities to State Trails Grants

The Connecting Communities to State Trails Grants (CCST) is a funding initiative administered by the North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation under the broader Complete the Trails Program. This program was established through historic legislation passed in 2021 that allocated significant funding to expand, connect, and maintain a statewide trail system. With more than $30 million committed as of 2023, the initiative supports the development of both land-based and paddle trails across North Carolina. The CCST component specifically dedicates $1.9 million to smaller communities to help them connect to the larger state trail network, enhancing regional accessibility and outdoor recreation infrastructure. The primary purpose of the CCST grant is to fund the planning and development of connecting trails that link eligible municipalities to designated state trails. These projects must align with the broader vision of building an interconnected trail system spanning over 3,500 miles. Eligible uses of funds include trail planning, design, and construction activities. However, there are clear restrictions: all constructed land trails must be natural surface, and all funded projects must ensure permanent public access. Any land acquired or facilities developed using grant funds must be dedicated indefinitely for public recreational use, with such use formally recorded in property deeds when applicable. Eligibility is limited to North Carolina municipalities with populations under 25,000 that are located within six miles of an existing or planned state trail segment. Local governments may collaborate on joint applications, though one entity must serve as the primary sponsor. The program distinguishes between smaller and mid-sized municipalities in its cost-sharing requirements. Communities with populations between 5,000 and 25,000 must provide a dollar-for-dollar non-state funding match, while those with fewer than 5,000 residents are exempt from matching requirements. Matching contributions may include cash, donated land value, or in-kind services such as labor and volunteer contributions, provided proper documentation is maintained throughout the grant period. The application process is conducted online through the WebGrants system. Applicants must create an account and complete the full application packet before submission. The program does not specify a pre-application requirement such as a letter of intent, indicating that applicants proceed directly to full submission. While detailed application components are not explicitly outlined, applicants are expected to demonstrate project feasibility, alignment with program goals, and compliance with public access and land use requirements. The timeline for this funding opportunity is clearly defined. The application period opened on October 6, 2025, and will remain open until October 8, 2026. Following the submission deadline, applications will be reviewed, and grant recipients are expected to be selected during the winter or spring of 2027. This extended application window provides municipalities with significant time to plan and prepare their proposals. The grant does not explicitly state recurrence, suggesting that this funding round may be tied to a specific legislative allocation rather than an annual cycle. Program oversight is provided by the North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation, with support from designated trails program staff. A program manager is identified, and general contact information is available for inquiries, including an official email address and phone number. While individual staff roles may be vacant, applicants are encouraged to reach out through the central contact channels for guidance. Overall, the CCST grant represents a strategic investment in expanding equitable access to outdoor recreation and strengthening community connectivity through sustainable trail development.