Governor Kathy Hochul announced a $10 million allocation for the Municipal Parks and Recreation Grant Program to support improvements to public recreational spaces across New York State. According to the Governor’s office, the funding, drawn from the voter-approved Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act, will support the program’s second round, including upgrades to playgrounds, courts, and other outdoor facilities.
In the official statement, Governor Hochul said the program aims “to encourage New Yorkers to disconnect from their digital devices and reconnect with the outdoors.” Program details will be available on the State Parks website on New Year’s Eve. Counties, cities, towns, and villages with eligible project sites can submit applications beginning tomorrow, with a deadline of February 9, 2026, at 4:00 p.m.
The program provides funding for up to 90 percent of eligible project costs, with a maximum of $900,000 per grant. While the funding prioritizes the construction and enhancement of recreational facilities, design plans may be included as part of a project, but standalone plans without associated construction are not eligible for funding.
Kathy Moser, Acting Commissioner of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, highlighted the agency’s support for Governor Hochul’s initiative to expand access to recreational facilities across the state. Commissioner Amanda Lefton of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation noted that the Municipal Parks and Recreation Grant Program reflects the Governor’s commitment to outdoor recreation opportunities for all New Yorkers. The program is funded through the $4.2 billion Environmental Bond Act, which supports both environmental conservation and green job initiatives.
State Senator Jose Serrano highlighted the benefits of the Municipal Parks and Recreation Grant Program, noting that access to outdoor recreation supports both physical and mental health. Assemblymember Ron Kim emphasized the importance of public recreational spaces and encouraged eligible entities to apply for funding. The program aligns with Governor Hochul’s Unplug and Play initiative, which aims to expand opportunities for outdoor activities and support the well-being of New York’s youth.
