September 4, 2026 3:30 a.m. 

The Recreational Trails Program is accepting grant applications through November 16th for approximately $1.6 million in grant funds available for the 2026 grant cycle. The grant program is open to local governments, park districts, state and federal agencies, tribal governments, other public land managers, and nonprofits.

A release from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department said the grants provide funding to construct, expand, or improve public trails for motorized and non-motorized use. Grants can be used for constructing new trails, restoring, or improving existing trails, trailhead facilities, trail building and maintenance equipment, land or easement acquisitions, safety and education, accessibility assessments of trails, and water trails.

Interested applicants must submit a simple letter of intent form via www.oprdgrants.org by September 30. Applications are due November 16th.

Information about the program, including the grant manual, application instructions, and program schedule is on the Recreational Trails Program web page.

This is a federally funded grant program that provides reimbursement to grantees after funds are spent. A 20 percent match of the total project cost is required

The Recreational Trails Program is funded through the Federal Highway Administration and administered by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. Since 1993, the program has funded over 550 projects across Oregon.

More information is available by email at: jodi.bellefeuille@oprd.oregon.gov or by phone at: 503-856-6316.