Trail Construction Grant Program

The Morris County Trail Construction Grant Program, established by the Morris County Board of County Commissioners, offers dedicated grant funding for municipalities within Morris County, New Jersey, to construct trails on preserved public parklands. This initiative reflects a countywide commitment to supporting recreation, promoting cultural tourism, and enhancing the quality of life through the development of accessible trail networks. In November 2014, the residents of Morris County voted overwhelmingly in favor of allowing trail construction as an eligible use under the Morris County Preservation Trust Fund, setting the stage for the launch of the program in 2016. Since its inception, it has grown into a vital infrastructure investment tool managed through collaboration between the Morris County Park Commission and the Office of Planning and Preservation. The program is designed specifically for local governments, with a clear emphasis on empowering municipalities to initiate and manage trail development projects. Applicants are expected to contribute matching funds, demonstrating local commitment to these community amenities. Over the past decade, the program has awarded approximately $7.8 million in grants, resulting in over 23 miles of constructed trails and the design of an additional 15 miles across the county. The program has become an essential mechanism for municipalities seeking to enhance pedestrian and bicycle access, promote outdoor recreation, and protect open space through carefully planned trail systems. For the 2026 grant cycle, applicants must adhere to a defined set of mandatory steps and deadlines. These include scheduling and attending a pre-application meeting before April 15, 2026, attending a required workshop on March 24, 2026, submitting a Letter of Intent by May 1, 2026 at 12:00 PM, and submitting a complete application by June 19, 2026 at 12:00 PM. The mandatory workshop will be held virtually via Webex, and participants are required to register through a dedicated online form. The program places emphasis on early engagement to ensure project readiness and alignment with county trail planning goals. Application materials will be evaluated based on alignment with program objectives, project feasibility, potential for public benefit, and readiness to proceed. The pre-application meeting is critical, as it offers prospective applicants the opportunity to receive guidance and feedback prior to submission. Applicants are expected to demonstrate their capacity to implement the project and manage the required local match effectively. The program does not fund planning-only projects; construction readiness is a key component of evaluation. Eligible projects must take place on preserved public parkland and must be sponsored by a municipal government within Morris County. The program does not permit applications from nonprofits, individuals, or private landowners. The matching requirement is mandatory, though the specific match ratio is not detailed in the application instructions. Program administration is overseen by staff within the Morris County Park Commission, with assistance from the Office of Planning and Preservation. Key contacts for the program include Karl Klingener, Special Projects Manager, who can be reached at [email protected] or by phone at 862-325-7739 during standard business hours. As the program celebrates its tenth year, it continues to embody Morris County’s long-standing commitment to balancing development with open space preservation. The 2026 grant cycle builds on a strong foundation of public service and community engagement. With structured guidance, clear timelines, and strategic oversight, the Trail Construction Grant Program represents a robust funding avenue for municipalities committed to expanding local trail infrastructure and providing lasting public benefit.