Division of Boating and Waterways Local Assistance Statewide Non-Motorized Boat Launching Facility Grant Program FY26

The California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) administers the Boat Launching Facilities (BLF) Grant Program, which provides funding to public agencies for the development, renovation, and improvement of recreational boating access facilities. This program supports the construction and enhancement of boat launching ramps, boarding floats, parking areas, restrooms, and lighting to accommodate both motorized and non-motorized boaters. The funding is aimed at increasing public access to waterways and promoting safe and sustainable boating in California. BLF grants are available to qualifying public agencies, such as city and county governments, special districts, and other eligible entities. Funding is awarded on a competitive basis, and applicants must demonstrate the need for improvements, the potential impact on public boating access, and adherence to state design and construction standards. In addition to grants for public boat launching facilities, DBW also offers loans to qualifying public and private entities for marina improvements. However, the Marina Loan Program is currently suspended pending further evaluation and identification of funding sources. The application process requires applicants to submit their proposals through the Online Grant Application (OLGA) system. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis but must be submitted by noon on February 2, 2026, to be considered for funding in the fiscal year 2027/2028 budget. Applications received after this deadline will be evaluated for subsequent funding cycles. A required component of the application includes a resolution from the applicant’s governing body, which must be submitted along with the completed application package. The evaluation of applications follows a structured ranking system based on project feasibility, impact, and alignment with program objectives. Review criteria include the scope of work, cost-effectiveness, potential to enhance public access, and compliance with environmental and regulatory requirements. The application process includes a confidential budget-making phase, and once the Governor’s budget is released in January 2026, a list of proposed projects for the fiscal year 2026-2027 will be presented to the Legislature. The final state budget is expected to be finalized in June 2026, after which grant agreements will be prepared. Once awarded, grant funds are not available for use until a fully executed grant agreement is in place. Any project work undertaken prior to this agreement will not be eligible for funding reimbursement. Successful applicants will be notified and required to comply with program guidelines, including reporting and project monitoring requirements. Additional resources, such as design and construction guidelines, are available to assist applicants in developing competitive proposals. For more information regarding the Boat Launching Facility Grant Program, applicants may contact Joe Dux at Joe.Dux@parks.ca.gov or (916) 902-8822. Additional program contacts include John Mathias at John.Mathias@parks.ca.gov and Casey Caldwell at Casey.Caldwell@parks.ca.gov. Detailed application instructions, ranking worksheets, and webinar training materials are accessible through the DBW website and OLGA system.