Widseth can help you apply for a Local Trail Connections grant from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for short trail connections in your community. Keep reading to learn more about the program, find out if you’re eligible, and see when applications are due.
1. Program & Description
Local Trail Connections Program
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
The Local Trail Connections Program provides grants to local units of government to promote relatively short trail connections between where people live and desirable locations. This funding could be used to connect residential areas with parks, historical areas, or other trails. It is not meant to develop significant new trails.
2. Type of Funding
Grants are up to 75% of the total eligible project costs up to a maximum of $250,000. Applicants need to provide a non-state cash match of at least 25% that is secured and committed at the time of application. Other state funds or grants, such as Parks and Trails Legacy Grants or Metropolitan Council Grants, cannot match these grants.
Grants are reimbursement-based with a minimum request of $5,000 and a maximum of $250,000.
3. Eligibility
Eligible applicants: Cities, counties, and townships.
Eligible projects: Eligible projects include acquisition and development of the trail. Projects must result in a trail linkage that is immediately available for use by the public. Acquisition of trail right-of-way is eligible only when proposed in conjunction with trail development. Acquisition projects require a perpetual easement for recreational purposes. Development projects require a 20-year maintenance commitment by the project sponsor.
4. Application Process & Deadline
The completed application is due March 31, 2022.
This is a competitive program and priority will be given to projects that provide significant connectivity. Trail length, projected usage, and quality of natural resources linked will be a consideration in funding. The Department of Natural Resources will review and rank applications during the spring of 2022. Preliminary grant awards will be announced in the summer of 2022.
5. How to Get Started
Contact Widseth’s funding department today to get started on your Local Trail Connections grant application. Widseth’s integrated services of civil engineering and funding will help you assemble and submit a winning funding request.
