Albany County Accepting Applications for Municipal Park Improvement Grants

Albany County Accepting Applications for Municipal Park Improvement GrantsPost Date:06/02/2025 1:08 pm As summer kicks in, Albany County is now accepting applications for 2025 Municipal Park Improvement Grants. The Albany County Legislature, in conjunction with the County Executive's Office and the Department of Parks and Recreation, is offering grants to enhance, improve, or develop city, town, and village-owned parks, playgrounds, or recreational facilities in the County. Grants are capped at $15,000 each from the $150,000 available. Grants must be submitted to the Albany County Legislature by email at Grants.Legislature@albanycountyny.gov. The deadline to apply is June 30, 2025. More information is available at bit.ly/2025ParksandPlaygrounds. The program focuses on creating, developing, expanding, or upgrading green spaces for physical activity, mental well-being, and overall community health. Project sponsors must be an incorporated city, town, or village within Albany County. Although private individuals, not-for-profit organizations, for-profit corporations, planning and engineering firms, and other non-public entities are not eligible, they are strongly encouraged to partner with eligible public entities to submit proposals. The application process is multi-step: Proposal Submission (applications must include) An executive summary detailing the project Anticipated expenses A benefits statement (How will the project add public value?) Overview of the need for assistance Appendices of renderings, drawings, project plans, or construction documents Signed copy of the Parks and Playgrounds Grant Acknowledgement Form (found on the county website) Review and Scoring Funding Recommendations Funding Disbursement Albany County Legislature Chairwoman Joanne Cunningham said: "All of the parks, playgrounds, and green spaces of Albany County offer an opportunity to peacefully retreat from the constant intensity of everyday life and actually enjoy the beauty of nature's blooming flowers and birdsongs. They provide open spaces for reflection, connection, and recreation, inviting people of all ages to unwind. This program supports the idea that tranquility is an important part of our communities right alongside the traditional needs." Albany County Legislature Deputy Chairwoman Wanda Willingham said: "No child's life should be dominated by concrete, asphalt, and steel. This program gives us a chance to create and improve spaces in our county where children of all ages can access safe fun and freedom. For kids living in historically marginalized and underserved communities that are often brimming with buildings and parking lots, this is a critical need that is often overlooked." Albany County Legislature Democratic Majority Leader Dennis Feeney said: "Albany's incredible network of parks and recreational spaces makes it a wonderful place to live. From playgrounds to nature trails, these green spaces give our residents a place to connect and unwind. That's why we must continue to invest in them. Every resident deserves access to vibrant outdoor spaces. This grant program is about making sure our local parks remain accessible and enjoyable for generations to come."Return to full list >>