DNR: $30M Available for Hoosier Trails Grant Program

Inside INdiana Business is reporting that the state of Indiana says $30 million in funding will be available for the next round of Indiana’s Next Level Trails grant program.

Governor Eric Holcomb and Indiana Department of Natural Resources director Cameron Clark announced details of the second round of the grant program for interested applicants. The state will award up to $25 million to regional projects and up to $5 million to local projects.

In the first round of funding announced in May, the state awarded nearly $25 million to 17 communities and non-profit organizations connected with 42 miles of new trail development. “Next Level Trails is off to an exciting start,” said Gov. Holcomb. “Trails create important connections within and between our communities, and this second round of funding represents another big investment toward improving connectivity and Hoosiers’ quality of life.”

Next Level Trails initiative will dedicate a total of $90 million of state funds over the life of the program.  Each project requires a minimum 20 percent match, which can be in the form of cash donations, land value or in-kind donations of materials and labor.The application period for the second round of grants begins on October 1.

The state will host three workshops in August for interested applicants. Here’s a list of the dates and locations.

  • Aug. 9 at Fort Harrison State Park Inn in Indianapolis (also offered via webinar)
  • Aug. 13 at Spring Mill State Park in Mitchell
  • Aug. 20 at Indiana Dunes State Park in Chesterton

To learn more about the Next Level Trails program, click on this link.