Recreational Trails Program (RTP)

The Federal Recreational Trails Program (RTP), administered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), provides financial assistance to develop, maintain, and rehabilitate recreational trails and related facilities across Wisconsin. This federally-funded program supports both motorized and non-motorized trail uses and is implemented in collaboration with the Federal Highway Administration and Wisconsin Department of Transportation. Public access is a fundamental requirement for any trail property receiving RTP funds. The program seeks to enhance outdoor recreation opportunities while aligning with the goals set forth in the State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP). RTP awards cover up to 80% of eligible project costs, with applicants responsible for the remaining 20% as matching funds. The maximum grant award for individual projects in the 2025–2026 cycle is $100,000. Projects are funded under three categories: nonmotorized/nonmotorized-diversified (30%), motorized/motorized-diversified (30%), and diversified (40%). Typical projects include trail rehabilitation, new trail development, and trailhead facilities. Projects must be consistent with a local or state trail plan referenced in the SCORP. While trail development and maintenance are prioritized, acquisition projects are not being accepted for the 2026 cycle. Eligible applicants include towns, villages, cities, counties, tribal governing bodies, school districts, state and federal agencies, and incorporated trail-focused nonprofit organizations. Applicants must own or have a legal agreement (e.g., lease or easement) to use the property for at least 15 years. Funded projects must be maintained for 5 to 20 years depending on the project type. Ineligible activities include pre-award expenses, equipment purchases, and non-trail recreation features like splash pads or sports courts. To apply, applicants must submit a complete package electronically via the DNR’s file transfer portal or email their regional project manager by March 1, 2026. Required materials include the application form, project site maps, governing board resolution, cost estimates, and environmental assessments. Regional Project Managers offer guidance throughout the application process, and applicants are encouraged to engage early in project planning. Applications are evaluated based on ranking criteria, including trail type, usage, accessibility, safety, sustainability, and cooperation between agencies. Projects must also comply with federal standards such as the Americans with Disabilities Act, Davis-Bacon wage rates, and Buy America Build America requirements. Selected applicants will be notified of a tentative award within three to four months after the deadline, with final agreements and reimbursements occurring six to twelve months later. Awarded funds are disbursed on a reimbursement basis, requiring detailed documentation of project expenditures. Recipients must also maintain public access and ensure that funded trail areas are used as intended throughout the grant’s useful life. Contact information for regional and statewide grant managers is available for further support, with statewide coordination provided by Cheryl Housley, Interim Grant Program Manager at cheryl.housley@wisconsin.gov or (608) 516-9560.

Contact regional project manager at least 2–3 months before submission for tailored advice; follow SCORP alignment closely; ensure complete and current resolution with designated representative