Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities (PARC) Grant Program
Forecasted
Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities (PARC) Grant Program supports Massachusetts municipalities in acquiring parkland, building parks, and renovating parks to expand public outdoor recreation.
Funder: Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs
Due Dates (Anticipated): July 2027 (Application) | July 2027 (Optional support letters)
Funding Amounts: Up to $425,000 ($100,000 for Small Town grants); 52–70% reimbursement; two-year development/renovation projects
Summary: PARC supports Massachusetts municipalities in acquiring parkland, developing new parks, and renovating existing parks for public outdoor recreation.
Key Information: Municipalities must appropriate 100% of project costs and pay expenses before seeking reimbursement.
Description
The Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities (PARC) program provides reimbursement grants to Massachusetts cities and towns for acquiring recreation land, developing new parks, and renovating existing municipal parks. The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) offers the program through the Division of Conservation Services (DCS) and the EEA Office of Grants and Technical Assistance. It supports land and facilities dedicated to public active outdoor recreation.
PARC prioritizes expanding recreational opportunities in underserved and environmentally burdened areas, creating new parks, incorporating climate resilience, and improving access for all residents—especially people with disabilities. Its selection system considers community need alongside project quality, including environmental education, water-based recreation, stewardship partnerships, and consistency with state and municipal recreation plans. Assisted properties remain protected parkland and must serve the general public, not only municipal residents.
