Boston—February 10, 2016—Today, Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Commissioner Leo Roy has announced that the agency is now accepting applications for the FY’17 Partnerships Matching Funds Program. The grant program, which DCR will allocate up to $1.5 million in matching funds, assists in financing capital projects proposed by park advocacy groups, civic and community organizations, institutions, businesses, municipal governments, and dedicated individuals with an interest in improving the Commonwealth’s natural, cultural, and recreational resources.
“By utilizing the Partnership Matching Funds Program, DCR is able to work with dedicated partners to ensure projects located within our state parks, beaches, forests, and reservations meet the needs of the public for years to come,” said DCR Commissioner Leo Roy. “The Baker-Polito Administration remains steadfast to increasing recreational opportunities for people of all abilities to enjoy.”
This fiscal year, the Baker-Polito Administration awarded $776,479 in Partnerships Matching Funds Program grants to 16 projects throughout the Commonwealth. Past projects have included:
- the design and construction of new playgrounds;
- the clearing of invasive plant species from waterways;
- the installation of interpretive signage;
- the construction of trail and path enhancements; and
- the planting of trees and other landscape improvements.
DCR’s Partnerships Matching Funds Program provides a dollar-for-dollar match to successful applicants (select projects will be considered for a two-to-one dollar match), and the agency will consider projects that may require more than one year to plan and complete. Importantly, over the last decade the Partnerships Matching Funds Program has fostered a combined investment by the Commonwealth and public and private partners of more than $10 million throughout the state’s parks system.
Conceptual applications are due by March 19, 2016. Project Concept Forms can be completed online and applicants may attach documents to the online application. For additional information please contact Lisa Barstow at (617) 626-4954 or Lisa.Barstow@state.ma.us.