Green Space Grant Program - Outdoor Recreation Grants - Large Recreation Development Grant (RI)

Funder: State of Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management - Natural Resources Bureau

The Green Space Grant Program offers funding for outdoor recreation projects, land conservation, and development of recreational facilities in Rhode Island. This program supports municipalities and recognized Native American tribes with matching funds up to 80%, totaling a maximum of $400,000. Eligible projects aim to enhance public outdoor recreation, with a focus on community engagement and sustainable practices. Interested applicants should ensure compliance with program regulations and explore partnerships for funding opportunities.

NOTE: Please see the additional associated grants, below -
Here is the Outdoor Recreation Grants - Small Recreation Development Grant (RI) page.
Here is the Outdoor Recreation Grants - Recreation Acquisition Grant (RI) page.
DEM's Green Space Grant Programs fund land conservation, recreational land acquisition and development, and recreational trail development and improvements. Each of these programs operates under a set of rules and regulations with Committee and Department oversight. The grant programs rely on State bond funding and Federal program funds. All funds require a local matching contribution which might be fulfilled with in-kind services or cash match from the grant applicant. Eligible applicants and matching fund requirements vary by program. Please review each program carefully to determine if your organization and project is eligible for funding. DEM Staff is available to guide you in this process and to help you get started.
Outdoor Recreation Grants - Large Recreation Development Grant (RI)
This grant program provides matching funds to cities and towns and recognized Native American tribes for the acquisition, development and renovation of outdoor recreational lands and facilities. The program is funded through State bonds.
Funding
Funding categories include Large Recreation Development grants (up to 80% matching funds to a maximum of $400,000).

Eligibility

The applicant must be a municipal agency or a Native American Tribe. Municipal agencies may submit applications in partnership with non-municipal entities. For the purposes of this program, school departments do not qualify as a municipal agency.What recreational facilities are eligible?Generally, the recreational facility should be owned by the municipality. At a minimum, the municipality must have custody of the facility, control the use of the facility, and be responsible for the facility’s maintenance and care.Copies of the property deeds, leases, restrictions or other appropriate documents must be provided upon request.Eligible Projects:Recreation Development Projects: Development projects shall be designed to provide public outdoor recreation.

Ineligibility

Recreational facilities owned and operated by a school department are not eligible unless the custody and control of the facility is granted to the municipality.Ineligible Projects:Recreation Development Projects:Projects primarily involving planning without proposing new or expanded recreational resources.Projects that would significantly limit public access in the days or times that the facility is available to the public.Projects that are primarily for normal maintenance and repair of facilities.