The Department of the Interior has announced a historic investment from the Land and Water Conservation Fund’s Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program (ORLP). The National Park Service (NPS) will allocate $254.68 million to 54 projects across 24 states for the redevelopment or creation of local parks.
This funding supports President Biden’s America the Beautiful Initiative, which focuses on conservation, equitable access to outdoor spaces, and economic strengthening. The program also aligns with the Administration's Justice40 Initiative, aiming to direct 40 percent of federal funding benefits to disadvantaged communities.
“Everyone deserves to experience the restorative power of nature, but increasing access to public outdoor spaces has not always received the investment and drive needed to make an impact. Supporting the communities that benefit from the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership program has been a top priority for our Administration, and a critical step to bringing more green spaces to urban and disadvantaged communities,” said Secretary Deb Haaland. “Today, this program makes history with the largest investment since its inception.”
“The enthusiasm for this program is wonderful, with the highest number of applications we’ve ever seen,” stated Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks Shannon Estenoz. “After traveling across the United States to increase awareness of the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Program, I’m thrilled to see so many cities receive grants for the first time.”
In August, Secretary Haaland and Assistant Secretary Estenoz toured ORLP projects in Raleigh, North Carolina. They visited Yeargan Park and Smoky Hollow Park where investments will enhance park infrastructure, trails, play areas, and picnic spots.
Assistant Secretary Estenoz's nationwide tour aimed at connecting with community members highlighted the importance of outdoor access and encouraged state participation in ORLP. This funding round marks a record number of applications received by NPS.
“It’s great to see such an increase in community investment in the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership program,” commented NPS Director Chuck Sams. “This investment into these 54 locally led projects is a prime example of the vital work the National Park Service is doing to improve access to the outdoors in your community and beyond national park borders.”
Established in 2014, ORLP is a competitive matching grant program aiding urban communities lacking nearby outdoor recreation facilities. Managed by NPS and funded through LWCF, it offers matching grants up to 50% of total project costs.
