Community Parks & Trails Grant

The Community Parks and Trails Grant Program is administered by the Portage Park District, a local government entity based in Portage County, Ohio, whose mission is to conserve the county’s natural heritage and provide opportunities for public appreciation and enjoyment of natural resources. The program is funded through levy funds allocated in the Park District’s 2026 budget, with a total of 100000 dollars dedicated to this initiative. As a pilot program, it is intended to support community-based park and trail development projects that align with the District’s conservation and recreation goals, with the potential to become an annually recurring opportunity if proven successful. The primary purpose of the grant is to support capital projects that enhance public access to parks and trails, improve recreational infrastructure, and promote environmental stewardship. Eligible uses of funding include both the acquisition of land for park or conservation purposes and the development or improvement of park and trail facilities. Allowable expenses include planning, design, engineering, construction, and the purchase of amenities such as benches, signage, restrooms, and recreational features. The program emphasizes projects that balance increased public use with the conservation of natural resources. Funding is available in amounts ranging from 1000 to 25000 dollars per project, and grants are provided strictly on a reimbursement basis. This means applicants must initially cover project costs and later submit documentation, including receipts and a final report, to receive reimbursement. There is no local matching requirement; however, applicants must demonstrate the ability to cash flow the project. Funds cannot be used for routine maintenance, salaries, athletic fields for team sports, swimming pools, or projects that negatively impact natural resources. Eligibility for the program is limited to villages and townships located within Portage County. Cities, schools, and nonprofit organizations are not eligible to apply directly, though nonprofits may participate by partnering with an eligible township or village. All funded projects must occur on land that is owned or leased by the applicant for a minimum of 25 years and must be open to the general public without discrimination. Projects must also comply with accessibility standards, ensuring reasonable access for individuals with disabilities. The application process requires submission of a complete application package, including detailed project descriptions, budgets, timelines, and supporting documentation such as maps, photos, and letters of support. Applicants must also include a formal authorizing resolution confirming their commitment to the project and compliance with program requirements. Applications may be submitted via mail or email and must be received by 400 pm on October 1, 2026. The Park District offers consultation support to applicants during the preparation phase. Applications are reviewed by a committee and evaluated based on criteria such as project need, community support, accessibility, alignment with the Park District mission, and the applicant’s financial capacity to complete the project. Final award decisions are made by the Board of Park Commissioners. The program timeline includes a launch in May 2026, application review in early October, award authorization in mid October, and execution of grant agreements in November. Projects must be completed and reimbursement requests submitted by December 31, 2027. Although this is a pilot program, the Portage Park District has indicated its intention to continue offering the grant on an annual basis if it proves successful. This suggests a recurring funding opportunity for eligible local governments seeking to enhance park and trail infrastructure within Portage County while supporting conservation and public recreation goals.

Demonstrate strong community need and support align project with conservation mission ensure accessibility compliance and provide clear budget documentation