Second Round Of Funding Available For Next Level Trails Grant Program

Thirty million dollars is available for regional and local projects in the second round of the Next Level trails grant program.

Next Level Trails, which will dedicate $90 million of State funds over the life of the program, is the largest infusion of trail funding in state history.

The grant program is divided into two components: a $70 million fund for regional projects and a $20 million fund for local projects.

Each requires a minimum 20% project match, which can include monetary contributions, land value, and in-kind donations of materials and labor. Projects funded through this program must be open to the public.

The second round will award up to $25 million to regional projects and up to $5 million to local projects. The application period for the second round begins Oct. 1 and ends Nov. 1 at 5 p.m. ET/ 4 p.m. CT.

A third round is anticipated in 2020.

The first round of Next Level Trails awards was announced in May.

The DNR’s Amy Marsavljevic says it has been an extremely popular program.

“In the first round we had up to $25 million to be awarded, but we actually got a tremendous response. We got 82 applications for nearly $144 million in grant requests.”

Seventeen communities and nonprofit organizations were awarded a cumulative $24.9 million for 42 miles of new trail development. 

Those interested in applying for the second round are encouraged to attend one of three application workshops:

• 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

More information regarding Next Level Trails is at https://www.in.gov/dnr/outdoor/9800.htm