Governor Kathy Hochul announced that $10 million will be available for the second round of the Municipal Parks and Recreation (MPR) Grant Program, aimed at funding the development and improvement of municipal parks and recreational sites across New York State. The funding, provided through the Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act, seeks to encourage residents to disconnect from digital devices and reconnect with the outdoors. Governor Hochul emphasized that expanding access to quality parks and recreational facilities promotes healthier communities and ensures children have safe spaces to play, learn, and grow.
The MPR grant funding can be used for constructing recreational facilities and improving municipally owned parks, including playgrounds, courts, playing fields, swimming areas, biking and boating facilities, hiking and fishing sites, and other outdoor amenities. Program guidelines and application details will be available starting December 31, 2025, on the State Parks website. The first round of the program awarded $10 million to 17 projects statewide.
Eligible applicants include counties, cities, towns, and villages that own the property where projects will take place. Grants primarily fund construction costs, though preconstruction activities such as planning and design may be included if tied to actual construction. The program covers up to 90 percent of eligible project costs, with a required 10 percent local match, and the maximum award is $900,000. Grants are administered on a reimbursement basis, with applications open from December 31, 2025, through February 9, 2026, and awards expected no earlier than May 22, 2026.
Acting Commissioner of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, Kathy Moser, highlighted the program’s role in expanding affordable recreational opportunities statewide, enabling residents to enjoy community parks and engage in healthy activities year-round. Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton noted that the funding, drawn from the Environmental Bond Act, will provide youth with opportunities to unplug and enjoy improved or newly constructed parks. State Senator Jose Serrano and Assemblymember Ron Kim also praised the program for increasing access to green spaces, enhancing physical and mental health, and supporting outdoor recreation for residents of all ages.
The MPR grant program aligns with Governor Hochul’s broader Unplug and Play initiative, which promotes children’s mental and physical well-being by supporting youth sports, arts programs, civic engagement, and community building. The program complements three other grants focused on swimming infrastructure, playground construction and renovation, and building and renovating community centers.
The funding for this initiative comes from New York’s $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act, approved by voters in November 2022. The Bond Act enables state agencies, local governments, and partners to protect water quality, enhance climate resiliency, create green jobs, and safeguard natural resources. To date, approximately $1.25 billion, or 25 percent of the Bond Act funds, has been awarded for statewide projects.
