Green Space Grant Program - Outdoor Recreation Grants - Recreation Acquisition Grant (RI)

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

The Green Space Grant Program in Rhode Island offers matching funds for the acquisition and development of outdoor recreational lands and facilities. It is available to municipal agencies and recognized Native American tribes, providing up to 50% matching funds, capped at $400,000. Eligible projects must enhance public access to recreational areas while ensuring proper management and maintenance by the municipality. This funding is crucial for improving community outdoor spaces and promoting environmental stewardship.

NOTE: Please see the additional associated grants, below -
Here is the Outdoor Recreation Grants - Large Recreation Development Grant (RI) page.Here is the Outdoor Recreation Grants - Small Recreation Development 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 - Recreation Acquisition 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
Recreation Acquisition grants (up to 50% 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 Acquisition Projects: Recreation land acquisitions shall require:the purchase of fee simple title to land that will be developed for outdoor recreation purposes; anda master plan for development of the property.

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 Acquisition Projects:Projects to purchase easements, development rights, etc.Projects that would significantly limit public access in the days or times that the facility is available to the public.