HARRISBURG, Pa. — The latest round of state funding for parks, trail maintenance and other conservation projects is open and accepting applications, officials said.
“These grants are key to achieving our goal of investing in the things that make communities great — public health, safety and wellness for all Pennsylvanians,” Cindy Adams Dunn, secretary of the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, said in a news release.
“By supporting projects that improve parks, trails and green spaces, we’re fostering stronger, healthier communities and boosting local economies.
“Outdoor recreation is a critical part of life in Pennsylvania, and these investments ensure that everyone has access to safe, enjoyable natural spaces.”
State officials last week announced the opening of the latest round of the Community Conservation Partnerships Program.
Available to local governments, as well as nonprofits in the recreation and conservation spaces, grants awarded through the program support projects to develop new parks, rehabilitate existing spaces and protect vital natural habitats.
Applications, available through the DCNR’s Grants Customer Service Portal, will be accepted through 4 p.m. April 2.
Investment in 300 projects last year
State Deputy Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Claire Jantz said the grants “are key in helping DCNR accomplish its mission to conserve and sustain Pennsylvania’s natural resources for present and future generations’ use and enjoyment.
“Our committed staff are available to assist throughout the application process and are eager to make connections with communities working to further their conservation efforts.”
In 2024, nearly $80 million was invested in more than 300 projects through the program.
That included developing 25 new local parks, rehabilitating 85 existing parks and protecting more than 6,800 acres for recreation and habitat preservation, officials said.
There also was $10 million in funding awarded to support trails, including nine projects aimed at addressing critical trail gaps.
During the most recent round of awards, in fall, a dozen Lehigh Valley projects were funded, totaling more than $3.5 million in state grants.
Funding for the program comes from several state and federal sources, including: the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund and Environmental Stewardship Fund.
Also, Pennsylvania Heritage Area Program, Keystone Tree Fund, Land and Water Conservation Fund and the Recreational Trails Program.
For more information, go to the Community Conservation Partnerships Program webpage on the DCNR’s website.
