The California Department of Parks and Recreation’s Office of Grants and Local Services is preparing to open a new round of community revitalization grants supported by funding from Proposition 4, the state’s 2024 climate bond, with applications beginning as early as August 3.
The fifth round of the Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program (SPP) will provide approximately $188.5 million for projects that create or improve parks and recreation opportunities in underserved communities.
The draft application guide is currently available for public comment through June 26. The start of the grant performance period when eligible costs may begin to be reimbursed is July 1, and the final guide and application portal are expected to be released mid-summer.
When the portal opens, cities, counties, districts, non-profits and qualifying joint powers authorities can apply for no-match competitive grants up to $8.5 million to expand, enhance or construct parks and recreation facilities.
Eligible projects may include features such as athletic fields and courts, playgrounds, community gardens, aquatic facilities, outdoor fitness areas, trails and other recreation amenities.
Projects funded through the program are intended to improve access to outdoor spaces and recreation opportunities while supporting community needs, including climate resilience, natural spaces and healthy communities.
The SPP provides planning tools on the parks.ca.gov website, including a Community Fact Finder tool, to help applicants identify needs and opportunities within their project area, and links to video examples of six previous projects for inspiration.
One example is Inspiration Park in Fresno, which brings together special needs and aging populations with the rest of the community. Another is Central Park in Stanton that takes some of its design from the historic railroad line and has become an easily accessible community gathering space. A unifying theme is that the communities have a voice in the vision of the projects based on their needs.
Photo by Daniel Reynaga from Pexels
For more of the latest from the expansive government marketplace, check Government Market News daily for new stories, insights and profiles from public sector professionals. Check out our national contracting newsletter here.
