Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program (ORLP) Recurring Notice 5 Year

The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) Program, administered by the National Park Service (NPS) under the U.S. Department of the Interior, is a nationally competitive grant program aimed at expanding outdoor recreational opportunities in underserved urban communities across the United States. This initiative operates under the broader framework of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Act. The ORLP Program complements the traditional LWCF State and Local Assistance formula grants by targeting densely populated and disadvantaged areas where access to quality outdoor spaces may be limited. Through this effort, the NPS seeks to improve environmental justice and equitable access to recreation. The ORLP Program provides financial assistance to State Lead Agencies designated to implement the LWCF within their jurisdiction, including all U.S. states and territories. These State Lead Agencies may apply directly or submit applications on behalf of eligible sub-recipients such as local governments, federally recognized Indian Tribes, Alaska Native Corporations (ANC), Alaska Native Organizations (ANO), Native Hawaiian Communities, and special purpose districts. All sub-recipients must be able to meet LWCF program requirements, including long-term land protection and maintenance obligations. Funding under this opportunity supports the acquisition and development of new parks and recreational facilities or the renovation of existing ones, particularly in areas that are densely settled and lack equitable access to public outdoor spaces. To qualify, proposed projects must align with each applicant’s Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), a requirement of the LWCF that guides statewide funding priorities. While funding through the ORLP does not impact states' formula allocations under the LWCF, it must still comply with the program’s requirements, including documentation, planning, and post-completion responsibilities. A key requirement of the ORLP Program is the provision of a non-Federal match equal to at least 50% of the total project cost. This 1:1 match can consist of cash or in-kind contributions such as land or services, but generally cannot include other Federal funds unless those funds are specifically authorized to serve as a non-Federal match. Commonly accepted matching sources include HUD’s Community Development Block Grants and funds from the Federal Highway Administration’s Recreational Trails Program, provided the enabling legislation allows for their use as non-Federal match. Applications must be submitted electronically by the listed due date via the Grants.gov portal. For the current cycle, the application deadline is November 21, 2025, with applications required to be submitted by 11:59 PM Eastern Time. There is no mention of pre-application requirements such as Letters of Intent. The program operates on a recurring cycle, and the next cycle is expected in Fall 2026. No specific number of awards is stated, but the total program funding is estimated at $450 million, with award sizes ranging from $300,000 to $15 million. For questions or further information, applicants are encouraged to contact Matthew Russell at matthew_russell@nps.gov. While no specific contact phone number is listed, the grant notice does not include a direct link to a downloadable PDF application or guidelines. Given the program's size, complexity, and the need to coordinate with a State Lead Agency, applicants are advised to begin their preparation early and ensure full compliance with SCORP alignment and LWCF regulations.