DNREC Outdoor Recreation Parks and Trails Program

The Outdoor Recreation, Parks and Trails Program is administered by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control through its Division of Parks and Recreation. Originally established in 1986 as the Delaware Land and Water Conservation Trust Fund, the program is supported through annual deposits from real estate transfer tax revenues, which are used to generate ongoing funding for grant awards. Since its first awards in 1988, the program has distributed tens of millions of dollars in matching grants to support public outdoor recreation infrastructure and land acquisition across the state of Delaware. The program reflects the state’s long-term commitment to expanding access to parks, trails, and recreational amenities for residents and visitors. The primary purpose of the program is to provide matching financial assistance for projects that enhance outdoor recreation opportunities. Eligible uses of funds include acquisition of parkland, planning and design of recreational spaces, and construction of outdoor facilities such as playgrounds, trails, bridges, and related infrastructure. The program also supports improvements that enhance accessibility and inclusive design, reflecting a current emphasis on equitable access to recreational resources. However, funding is restricted to outdoor projects; indoor facilities and ongoing operations or maintenance costs are not eligible for support. Funding is structured as a matching grant program, requiring applicants to contribute a portion of project costs. Standard funding covers up to 50 percent of eligible project costs for municipalities and counties. Enhanced funding of up to 75 percent may be available for park districts, municipalities that have not previously received funding, or projects located in areas identified as highly vulnerable based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Social Vulnerability Index. Applicants must demonstrate a viable source of matching funds, which may include local budgets, other grants, or private contributions. Eligibility is limited to municipal and county governments and park districts within Delaware. Applicants must commit to maintaining funded sites for public outdoor recreational use in perpetuity and are responsible for ongoing operation and maintenance. The program is designed to support public entities with the capacity to manage long-term recreational assets and ensure continued community access. The application process begins with a required pre-application submission at the start of each grant cycle. This initial step allows program administrators to assess project eligibility and readiness without requiring a full commitment. Selected applicants are then invited to submit a full application, which is reviewed by a committee composed of representatives from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Council, the Department of Transportation, and DNREC staff. Final recommendations are presented to the Parks and Recreation Council before approval by the DNREC Secretary. For the current cycle, pre-applications are due by May 15, 2026, and full applications must be submitted by September 15, 2026. Following review and recommendations in November, final approvals and grant agreements are expected to be executed in the first quarter of 2027. Program staff also provide technical assistance to applicants throughout the process, including support with planning, design, and project development. Additional guidance and resources are available through program materials and direct contact with the program administrator.

Focus on readiness and eligibility in pre-application; align projects with accessibility and community need priorities