Waste Tire Grant Program

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) administers the Waste Tire Grant Program to support the purchase and installation of tire-derived products by local governments and public or private K–12 schools in Kansas. This state-funded initiative reflects KDHE’s environmental mission by encouraging the reuse of recycled waste tires in community settings, particularly in outdoor infrastructure such as playground surfacing and related amenities. The primary purpose of the program is to reduce waste and promote sustainability through the repurposing of tire materials into usable products like rubber mulch, pour-in-place rubber surfacing, molded or extruded edging, tiles, tables, and benches. Projects may only be funded if the material is composed of at least 50 percent waste tire content by weight unless supplemented by other recycled materials. The grant covers costs such as product acquisition, shipping, binding or coloring supplies, and the installation of pour-in-place surfacing. In-kind match contributions may include staff time, volunteer labor, shipping, installation, and project design services. Applicants must be in good standing with environmental regulations and, if applicable, must close out previous grants or provide progress reports. All applicants (except those requesting only tables or benches) must name a qualified quality officer. Grantees must display KDHE signage at project sites and participate in KDHE’s public education efforts. They must also maintain property insurance to cover potential damage to grant-funded items. Applications are accepted annually, with the next deadline being January 15, 2026. Applications open on November 15, 2025, and award decisions are expected in April 2026. Grants begin on May 1, 2026, with 50% of the funds distributed as an advance, while the remaining funds are reimbursed upon completion of the project and submission of a final report, documentation, and quality officer installation certification. The grant period concludes on April 30, 2027, with final reports due by May 31, 2027. The program has a mandatory cost-share component, requiring a 50/50 match of project costs. The grantee’s share may be cash or in-kind. Final payment is contingent upon the submission and approval of expenditure documentation, photographs, and other required deliverables. Questions about the program can be directed to the KDHE Bureau of Waste Management at kdhe.BWMGrant@ks.gov or 785-296-1617. The Waste Tire Grant Program is issued annually, making it a recurring funding opportunity. Applications must be complete and submitted on time to be considered. While extensions for the performance period may be requested, they are not guaranteed. KDHE emphasizes the importance of reading the application instructions carefully and ensuring compliance with ADA and environmental regulations throughout the life of the grant.

Applications must be complete and received by the deadline; incomplete or late submissions will not be considered; signage is required for uncoated black surfacing to warn of heat risks.