Trail Funding:

Funding trails and greenways takes a bit of ingenuity and a lot of research. Though Rails-to-Trails Conservancy does not directly fund trails, between federal, state and local government funding mechanisms as well as grants, private partnerships and other creative funding methods, there are many ways to fund your trails and greenways.

Federal funding mechanisms include not only transportation and park programs, but also brownfield, community development and arts programs. Funding through state and local governments can be found in the departments of health, parks and transportation. Some communities have also passed referenda to specifically fund trail and greenway projects.

Many foundations and companies provide grants for trail and greenway projects, open space preservation, community development and community health.

Don't forget to explore the possibility of creating partnerships to build and maintain your trail or greenway. These can be important for not only constructing and maintaining your project, but also building community pride.

Communities across the country have raised money for development and maintenance of their trails and greenways through various fundraising campaigns.

Click here to search our funding database, with information on various trail funding programs at the national- and state-levels.