The Department of the Interior has announced a significant funding initiative, providing an estimated $450 million over the next five years for local communities across the United States. This funding is aimed at creating new parks and trails or renovating existing ones through the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program.
Previously, in September, the department allocated $254 million in grants for 54 projects across 24 states. This marked the largest single grant investment from the ORLP program to date.
"Families and children across the country today have modern and accessible local parks thanks to investments from the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership program," stated Secretary Deb Haaland. "Everyone – regardless of background or zip code – should have access to the benefits that nature provides, and this program has made that vision a reality for communities in every corner of the nation."
Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks Shannon Estenoz was in Miami visiting three park projects funded by ORLP in South Florida. These projects include new amenities such as a playground, amphitheater, and pool.
“Over the last four years, the Interior Department has moved quickly to invest in the creation of local parks and the renovation of green spaces. Thanks to funding from the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership program, more Americans today have spaces created by, and for, their communities where they can safely recreate,” said Assistant Secretary Estenoz. “I am thrilled that the Department will continue to bring more of these projects to fruition long into the future.”
National Park Service Director Chuck Sams emphasized, “Access to quality outdoor spaces is critical for physical and mental well-being and development. The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership program helps ensure that close-to-home access to parks is equitably distributed.”
Established in 2014, ORLP is a nationally competitive matching grant program designed to assist disadvantaged urban communities lacking nearby outdoor recreation opportunities. It provides grants for community-sponsored park projects where populations exceed 30,000 residents. Managed by NPS and funded through the Land and Water Conservation Fund, it offers matching grants covering up to 50% of total project costs.
The initiative supports President Biden’s America the Beautiful Initiative focused on conservation efforts addressing nature and climate crises while improving equitable outdoor access. It also aligns with Justice40 Initiative goals aiming for 40 percent of federal funding benefits to reach disadvantaged communities.
