Motorboat Gas Tax Grant Program

The Motorboat Gas Tax Grant Program administered by Wyoming State Parks, Historic Sites and Trails (SPHS&T), under the broader Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources system, is a state-funded initiative designed to improve public boating access and infrastructure across Wyoming. Authorized under Wyoming statute, the program distributes funds on a recurring biennial cycle to support local government entities in developing and maintaining boating facilities that serve the public. The program reflects the state’s commitment to enhancing outdoor recreation opportunities, particularly those tied to water-based activities, by investing in accessible and durable infrastructure. The primary purpose of the Motorboat Grant Program is to expand and improve boating opportunities for the public by funding the construction, restoration, repair, and enhancement of publicly owned boating facilities. Eligible projects include a wide range of infrastructure such as boat ramps, docks, parking areas, campgrounds, restrooms, fish cleaning stations, water systems, and related amenities that directly benefit recreational boaters. Projects must demonstrate high utility, accessibility, and long-term viability, and must be located on publicly controlled land where access is guaranteed. Funding through this program operates on a strict 50/50 cost-share basis. Applicants are required to cover at least half of the total project cost through cash or in-kind contributions, including volunteer labor or donated materials. Reimbursement is provided only after costs are incurred and approved, meaning applicants must initially fund 100 percent of project expenses. The total funding available for a given cycle may vary depending on appropriations and applicant demand, with one documented cycle indicating approximately $100,000 available for distribution among selected projects. Eligibility for the Motorboat Grant Program is limited to local governmental entities within Wyoming, specifically cities and counties. Applicants must demonstrate full control over the project site through ownership or valid lease agreements and must secure all required permits and environmental clearances prior to project initiation. Additionally, applicants are required to obtain governing body approval through formal resolution, demonstrate meaningful public input, and provide documentation of stakeholder engagement. Projects must also comply with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including environmental protection laws and accessibility standards such as the Americans with Disabilities Act. The application process requires submission of a complete application package, including a project narrative, budget, maps, proof of land control, public input documentation, and supporting permits or letters where applicable. Applications are typically due by November 30 of the application year, although specific cycles may include slight variations. Submissions are reviewed and scored by SPHS&T staff based on criteria such as regional need, number of users served, feasibility, maintenance plans, and economic impact potential. Projects that demonstrate strong community support, secured matching funds, and long-term sustainability are prioritized. Following submission, applications are evaluated and ranked, with final selections typically announced by early February of the following year. Successful applicants must enter into a formal agreement before beginning any work, and all project activities must be completed within the applicable state biennium funding period. The program operates on a recurring biennial basis, allowing eligible entities to reapply in future cycles. Throughout the process, applicants are encouraged to work closely with program staff, including the designated Grants Manager, to ensure compliance and maximize the competitiveness of their proposals.

Focus on projects serving large numbers of boaters; Demonstrate strong public support and secured match funding; Ensure feasibility and long-term maintenance planning