Greening Grant

The Union County Board of County Commissioners administers the Open Space, Recreation and Historic Preservation Trust Fund, which supports initiatives that enhance community spaces, environmental quality, and recreational opportunities throughout Union County. As part of this effort, the county has launched two grant programs: the Kids Recreation Grant and the Greening Grant. These programs are designed to empower municipalities to implement projects that improve public spaces, expand recreational access, and promote environmental sustainability. The funding reflects the county’s ongoing commitment to improving quality of life for residents by investing in infrastructure and natural resources at the local level. The Greening Grant program specifically focuses on expanding tree coverage and improving green spaces within municipalities. Its primary objective is to reduce air pollution, enhance environmental conditions, and contribute to healthier communities through strategic tree planting. The program operates as a matching grant initiative in which Union County matches each tree purchased by a municipality with an additional tree, effectively doubling the impact of local investments. Trees provided through the program include professional installation and a one-year maintenance guarantee, ensuring both quality and sustainability of plantings. Funding under the Greening Grant is structured as a reimbursement-based matching program. Municipalities are responsible for paying vendors in full for tree planting services upfront. After completion and submission of required documentation, including signed vouchers and proof of payment, municipalities are reimbursed for half of eligible costs based on their approved award. While municipalities may select their own vendors, all work must meet county specifications, including installation standards and maintenance requirements. Additionally, all projects are subject to site visits by Trust Fund personnel to ensure compliance with program guidelines. Eligibility for both the Kids Recreation Grant and the Greening Grant is limited to the 21 municipalities within Union County. These local governments are expected to identify and propose projects that align with community needs. For the Greening Grant, applicants must submit a complete application online and provide supplemental documentation by mail, including certification of matching funds and a municipal resolution authorizing participation. Applicants must also include a municipal map or approved narrative detailing tree planting locations. These requirements ensure that projects are both feasible and aligned with local planning efforts. The application process is structured with a clearly defined timeline. Applications open on June 1, 2026, and must be submitted by August 3, 2026. There are no pre-application requirements such as letters of intent or concept papers. Following submission, municipalities must complete project implementation during either the spring or fall planting cycles of 2027. Reimbursement documentation must be submitted by December 31, 2027, providing a clear post-award timeline for project completion and financial reconciliation. Program evaluation is conducted through administrative review of submitted materials and verification of completed work. Required documentation, including payment verification and compliance with specifications, plays a critical role in determining reimbursement eligibility. While specific scoring criteria are not detailed, adherence to guidelines and completeness of submission are essential. The Trust Fund office also conducts site visits to confirm that installations meet program expectations. For additional information or assistance with the application process, municipalities may contact Angelica Cedeno, Deputy Administrator, via email at acedeno@ucnj.org or by phone at 908-558-2279. The program is expected to recur annually as part of the county’s ongoing investment strategy in open space and environmental improvement initiatives, providing municipalities with continued opportunities to enhance community infrastructure and sustainability.

Ensure all required documentation is complete and submitted in both online and mailed formats; verify vendor compliance with specifications; plan early for reimbursement documentation deadlines