Recreation Passport Grants

The Recreation Passport Grants program, administered by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), is designed to support local governments in the enhancement and development of public outdoor recreation facilities. Funded through revenues from Michigan's Recreation Passport program, the grant initiative aims to foster community-based projects that encourage outdoor activity and promote quality of life through accessible, safe, and well-maintained recreation spaces. The program provides financial support specifically for the renovation of aging recreational infrastructure and the development of new public outdoor facilities. Emphasis is placed on updating existing facilities that have surpassed their expected service lifespan, thereby ensuring continued community benefit from public investments. Grants range from a minimum of $7,500 to a maximum of $150,000 per project. Importantly, applicants must contribute a minimum 25 percent match toward the total project cost, ensuring local commitment and shared investment. Eligible applicants include local units of government such as cities, villages, townships, and counties, as well as regional authorities legally established to provide public recreation. This includes the Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority and other recreation authorities formed under Michigan state law. Trailway commissions formed under the Michigan Trailways Act are also eligible to apply. All applicants must demonstrate control of the proposed project site and provide a 5-Year Recreation Plan. Applications must be submitted electronically via MiGrants, Michigan’s grant management system, by April 1 each year. The application process involves submission, followed by evaluation by DNR staff. Recommendations are made to the DNR Director, who ultimately approves or denies the grants. Notification of awards typically occurs in December, with formal project agreements issued soon thereafter. Applicants are encouraged to review the full program criteria outlined in the application guidelines booklet. Additional support materials, such as a recorded application workshop and forms for site control and planning, are available through the Michigan DNR website. The grant program operates on an annual cycle, providing a consistent opportunity for eligible entities to seek funding each year. For questions or technical assistance, applicants can contact Christie Bayus, Program Manager, at 517-242-8737 or via email at BayusC@Michigan.gov. Regional grant coordinators are also available to provide localized guidance. The program continues to play a vital role in supporting community investment in recreational spaces across the state of Michigan.

Emphasis placed on renovating outdated facilities; ensure strong cost justification and clarity of community benefit.