The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry’s Bureau of Parks and Lands has announced the results of the first round of Maine Trails Program (MTP) grants, marking a significant investment in trail access, connectivity and outdoor recreation throughout the state.
In Round One, $7.5 million was awarded to 44 projects selected from 108 applications representing municipalities and nonprofit partners from 15 of Maine’s 16 counties. Funded projects span the full spectrum of trail use, including motorized, nonmotorized, accessible and multi-use trails, supporting hiking, walkng, ATV and snowmobile riding, paddling access, adaptive recreation and community trail development across Maine.
Created by the Maine Legislature and approved by voters as Question 4 on the November 2024 ballot, and administered by the BPL, the $30 million Maine Trails bond created the Maine Trails Program, a statewide initiative dedicated to supporting the design, construction and rehabitation of trails for outdoor recreation and active transportation. Through 2034, the program will award up to $7.5 million annually, leveraging at least $3 million per year in matching public and private contributions.
Some of the highlights of Round One are: Over $17 million in requests received; 108 applications submitted statewide; 44 projects awarded (41% of requests); 100% of availacble funding awarded; 52% of motorized trail applications funded; two land acquisitio projects approved; 25 new trails constructed; 14 projects focused on improved accessibility; 23 primarily hiking/walkng projectds; 8 primarily snowmobile projectds; 5 primarily ATV projects and awards distirubed across 15 counites.
The Maine Trails Program consists sof four annual grant rounds. Applications for Round Two are aniticpated to be due in June of 2026. BPL looks foward to building on this momentum by continuing to support projects that expand dtrail access, improve infrastructure, promote safety and accessibility, increase stewardship and enhance Maine’s outdoor recreation economy. Applicants can expect additional outreach, gidance and technical assistance ahead of the next application cycle.
“The Maine Trails Program is a once-in-a-generation investment in the places where we live, work and rrecreate,” said Commssioner Amanda Beal, Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. “These first-round awaards reflect the incredible commitment of our communities to building trails that welcome everyone, whether they walk, ride, paddle, ski or snowmobile. From downtown connectors to backcountry routes and adaptive access trails, these projects strengthen local economies and promote healthy outdoor activity across Maine.”
For more information on the Maine Trals Program and future application opportunities, please visit the program webpage or contact the Bureau of Parks and Lands.