Funding and Resources

FUNDING & RESOURCES

Park Revenues

Many local communities charge users for use of local park facilities for events or league use. For example, based on a survey of parks in Edmond, Harrah, Choctaw, Yukon, a covered picnic pavilion can be rented $20 to $75 dollars per half day depending on size and amenities.

Local Contributions

Local contributions may come from a variety of sources. Check with local businesses, service providers, banks, utility providers, nearby auto dealerships, charitable foundations, etc. Don’t forget the value of in-kind contributions of materials, equipment, and labor from skilled local workers.

Land & Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)

Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department Division of State Parks Susan Henry, Grant Administrator (405) 522-9521 susan.henry@travelok.com

The Division of State Parks distributes the federal funds for this grant. The grant reimburses up to 50% of expenses from projects that include acquisition of land and/or development of outdoor recreation facilities. Facilities might include sports facilities, playgrounds, campgrounds, trails, swimming facilities, splash pads, etc. https://www.nps.gov/subjects/lwcf/index.htm

Recreational Trails Program (Same Contact Info as Above)

The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) is a federal aid program managed through the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department (OTRD) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). As a state-administered program, the RTP offers up to 80% of grant reimbursement for developing a recreational trail with a 20% local match. The following eligible projects for the RTP include: 1) trail maintenance and restoration, 2) land acquisition, 3) construction of new trails, 4) accessibility projects with disabled individuals and 5) development of trailhead and trailside facilities. https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ otrd-nfs-trav/files/RTP-2020-ApplicationRevised-10-23-2019.pdf

Transportation Alternatives Program

Shelly Williams, PE Local Government Division Engineer Oklahoma Department of Transportation 200 NE 21st St Oklahoma City, OK 73105-3299 (405) 521-2454 slwilliams@odot.org

The Transportation Alternative Program (TAP) provides federal funding for alternative transportation projects/programs. As a federal program that provides funds up to 80% of total project costs with a 20% local match, the following alternative transportationrelated projects/programs are eligible of receiving federal funds: 1) sidewalks, 2) pedestrian/bicycle trails, 3) streetscapes, 4) safe routes to school and 5) environmental/ historic preservation projects. Projects outside of the Oklahoma City and Tulsa urbanized areas with a population under 5,000 are eligible to receive funds. https://oklahoma.gov/odot/businesscenter/local-government-resource-center/ transportation-alternatives-program-tap.html

Placemaking Grant

The National Association of Realtors provides funds up to $5,000 for eligible parks, trails, and play/fitness areas projects. Applicants must coordinate with the local Realtor Association to apply. The placemaking grant offers up to two levels of funding. https://realtorparty.realtor/community-outreach/ placemaking

TSET Healthy Incentive Grants - Communities

grantsmanagement@tset.ok.gov Sponsored by Oklahoma’s Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust, The TSET Healthy Incentive Grants for Communities provides funds to construct public facilities related to health and wellness. In efforts to promote physical activity opportunities and improve the quality of life among residents, eligible projects include 1) walking trails, 2) sports/recreational facilities, and 3) farmers market. https://tset.ok.gov/content/healthycommunities-incentive-grants grantsmanagement@tset.ok.gov

AARP Community Challenge

The AARP Community Challenge provides grants to fund public places and transportationrelated projects. Public places and transportationrelated projects include the following: 1) open spaces, 2) parks, and 3) bike/walk mobility. https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/ community-challenge/info-2021/2021-challenge. html

OGE Energy Corp. Foundation Grants

The OGE Energy Corp. Foundation provides funding to 501(c)(3) charities for projects related to enhancing the quality of life and economic wellbeing. Capital improvements costs are ineligible, but this program provides support to park programming. To be eligible, the community must reside within OGE operation areas.

Rural Economic Action Plan (REAP)

Matthew Weaver (405) 234-2264 REAP Grants are authorized by the Oklahoma Legislature for funding small, rural communities with less than 7,000 in population. ACOG manages the distribution of these funds in central Oklahoma. Grants do not require a local match and can be used for various public projects, including transportation and community buildings. http://www.acogok.org/economic-development/ reap/

Oklahoma Parks & Recreation Society

ed@orps.us (405) 780-2345

The Oklahoma Parks & Recreation Society is an organization for professionals who are engaged in parks and recreation. Members include 1) government staff at all levels, 2) nonprofits, and 3) vendors who sell park equipment or materials. OPRS has an annual conference in the fall that includes a vendor and trade show where attendees can chat with park vendors. http://www.orps.us

National Recreation and Parks Association

The NRPA offers a variety of resources, including a certification program for professionals in the following areas:

Certified Playground Safety Instructor Certified Park and Recreation Professional Certified Park and Recreation Executive

https://www.nrpa.org/certification/