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Release and photo courtesy of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

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BOSTON – The Commonwealth’s MassTrails program is currently accepting applications for funding.

MassTrails provides matching grants to communities, public entities and non-profit organizations to design, create, and maintain the network of trails and trail systems used and enjoyed by Massachusetts residents and visitors.

Applications are accepted annually for a variety of trail projects benefiting communities across the state. Funding for MassTrails Grants comes from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation’s capital budget, and from the motor fuel excise tax on off-road vehicles including ATVs and snowmobiles, which is provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Surface Transportation Act, in coordination with MassDOT. 
Applications are due Monday, February 1, 2021.

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Click here to access more detailed program information and application materials

Grant amounts are dependent on the project and its needs, but generally range from $5,000 to $100,000 with grants of up to $300,000 awarded to projects demonstrating critical network connections of regional significance.

Ashland received a0$50,00 grant this year.

Natick Received a $55,000 grant.

Eligible grant activities include project development, design, engineering, permitting, construction, and maintenance of recreational trails, shared-use pathways, and the amenities that support trails.

MassTrails grants are reimbursable, meaning grantees must first pay for expenditures themselves and then submit for reimbursement using the required documentation. MassTrails grants are also matching grants, and require that proponents provide a minimum of 20% of the total project cost. Projects with higher match commitments will be given greater consideration.

Eligible projects require documented land owner permission and community support. 

Click here to access more detailed program information and application materials.  

By editor

Susan Petroni is the former editor for SOURCE. She is the founder of the former news site, which as of May 1, 2023, is now a self-publishing community bulletin board. The website no longer has a journalist but a webmaster.