Recreation Passport Grants
Forecasted
Recreation Passport Grants support Michigan communities in building and renovating public recreation facilities, especially aging sites, to expand opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Funder: Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates (Anticipated): February 2027 (Recreation plans and amendments) | April 2027 (Applications)
Funding Amounts: $7,500–$150,000 per development grant; applicants fund at least 25% of project cost
Summary: Supports Michigan communities in developing and renovating public recreation facilities, with emphasis on aging facilities.
Key Information: Grant-funded sites must remain open to public outdoor recreation for the facilities’ useful life (generally at least 20 years, or 40 years for structures).
Description
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) runs Recreation Passport Grants to help local providers develop public recreation facilities. The program funds new facilities and parks as well as improvements to existing sites, with particular emphasis on renovating facilities that have outlived their useful life. Projects must primarily provide public recreation opportunities or infrastructure that supports public recreation.
Funding comes from Recreation Passport revenue deposited in the Local Parks and Recreation Facilities Fund. DNR staff evaluate applications and recommend projects to the department’s director for approval. The program supports development projects rather than routine park operations or maintenance.
