Next Level Trails
Forecasted
Next Level Trails supports Indiana local governments and nonprofits in building and improving public, non-motorized trails to connect communities, extend existing routes, and expand trail access.
Funder: Indiana Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates: Due Dates (Anticipated): Not yet announced
Funding Amounts: Regional projects: $250,000–$5 million; local projects: $200,000–$2 million per applicant; minimum 20% match; completion expected within four years
Summary: Next Level Trails supports development of regionally and locally significant public, non-motorized trails throughout Indiana.
Key Information: Applicants must directly own, maintain, or manage trail development; fiscal pass-through-only applicants are ineligible.
Description
Next Level Trails is administered by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources as part of Governor Holcomb’s broader Next Level Connections infrastructure program. It supports regionally and locally significant trails throughout Indiana, encouraging collaboration to accelerate trail connections. Supported work includes trail construction, surface upgrades, land acquisition, design and engineering, and basic trail amenities.
The program prioritizes connections between communities, extensions of existing trails, and partnerships. Regional projects can advance completion of the State Visionary Trail System, while local projects can connect schools, parks, neighborhoods, commercial centers, and attractions. All non-motorized trail types and surface types are eligible, with particular consideration for multi-use trails. The program has invested $180 million in Indiana trails.
