Today, Governor Roy Cooper unveiled $8.5 million in grants allocated to 19 park and recreation initiatives across the state via the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund. These grants were greenlit by the Parks and Recreation Authority during their meeting on August 11.
“Getting outdoors to enjoy parks and greenspaces improves people’s health and quality of life, and these grants will help towns and counties to provide recreation for their communities,” said Cooper in a press release. “These investments can help revitalize our communities, boost local economies and promote tourism.”
These funds were sought by local communities for land purchase, as well as the establishment and refurbishment of the best public parks across our state. Annually, the Parks and Recreation Authority sets aside 30% of the total PARTF resources for local city and county projects. Each project can receive up to $500,000, but recipients are required to match the grant value dollar-for-dollar. Out of the 52 applications this year, which cumulatively asked for over $21 million, the Authority chose 19.
The management of the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund falls under the N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation, with funds distribution determined by the state’s budget. The Authority bestows these local grants each year during its August quarterly session.
Grants will be given away to the following projects:
