Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership
Forecasted
Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership supports urban and Tribal communities in acquiring and improving public parks and recreation areas to expand lasting access to outdoor recreation.
Funder: Recreation and Conservation Office
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2026 (Technical completion) | November 2026 (NPS application) | July 2027 (Plan) | August 2027 (PRISM application) | November 2027 (NPS application) | November 2028 (NPS application) | November 2029 (NPS application) | November 2030 (NPS application)
Funding Amounts: $300,000–$15 million per award; 50% cost share; projects generally take 1–3 years after award
Summary: Supports acquisition and improvement of public outdoor recreation areas in qualifying urban and Tribal communities.
Key Information: The assisted park or recreation area must remain available for public outdoor recreation in perpetuity.
Description
The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) is a competitive program within the National Park Service’s Land and Water Conservation Fund. In Washington, the Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) manages the state application process. Established in 2014, ORLP funds land acquisition for public outdoor recreation, construction of new facilities, renovation of existing facilities, and projects combining acquisition with development.
The program seeks to improve access to parks and recreation in qualifying urban areas and on lands administered by federally recognized Tribes or Alaska Native or Native Hawaiian community organizations. It prioritizes low-income communities where access to parks does not meet local needs. Projects may include community parks, trails, athletic facilities, and nature-based recreation.
