LANSING — Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced nearly $2 million in grants to local parks and trails from the recreation passport program. Funding for the program is derived from sales of Michigan’s Recreation Passport, which gives year-round vehicle access to 100-plus state parks and recreation areas, more than 1,000 state-managed boating access sites, 140-plus state forest campgrounds, and parking at thousands of miles of trails and other outdoor spaces.
The Recreation Passport Grants are funded from 10% of the Recreation Passport revenues, with the remaining funds supporting operations, infrastructure and historic and cultural assets in the state parks and recreation system. With the announcement of this year’s recipients, the Recreation Passport grant program (established by Public Act 35 of 2010) has awarded just over $18.5 million statewide.
“When we invest in our state parks and public lands, we all benefit,” said Governor Whitmer. “The Recreation Passport helps us improve parks, trails, playgrounds, campgrounds, and so much more across Michigan, improving quality of life and growing our economy. I am proud that we made the largest investments ever into our state and local parks over the last few years. Let’s keep investing in Pure Michigan!”
Below is a list of projects funded by the latest round of grants:
- $112,500 grant to the City of Portland for River Trail Park renovation
- $131,200 grant to Yankee Springs Township for Township Park improvements
- $150,000 grant to City of Big Rapids for Swede Hill Skatepark
- $95,600 grant to Ontonagon Township for Blanksvard Landing Campsite and River Access development
- $150,000 grant to Watson Township for Seven Generations Park development
- $150,000 grant to Vevay Township for Community Park improvements
- $150,000 grant to St. Clair County for North Channel County Park Waterfront Access development
- $150,000 grant to City of Bridgman for Weko Beach East Campground restroom renovation
- $150,000 grant to Maple Forest Township for a Township park
- $61,300 grant to Aurelius Township for Glenna Droscha Community Park Playground
- $150,000 grant to Oscoda Charter Township for Ken Ratliff Park Warrior Pavilion and Restroom/Bathhouse
- $131,200 grant to Village of Hillman for Playground Equip Upgrade & Pickleball Court Install
- $148,000 grant to Gerrish Township for Gerrish Township Park
- $135,000 grant to Village of Mayville for Bodeis Park Improvements
- $112,500 grant to Fort Gratiot Charter Township for Parker Road West Trail Development
