Recreational Trail Program (RTP)

The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) in Nebraska is a federally funded initiative administered by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission under the authority of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). This program provides financial support to the state for the development, maintenance, and enhancement of public recreational trails. Authorized through the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21), the RTP operates with a defined funding split: 30 percent of funds are allocated to motorized trail projects, 30 percent to non-motorized projects, and the remaining 40 percent to diversified trail projects supporting both types of use. The RTP's primary goal is to support political subdivisions in Nebraska by offering grants that can be used for trail-related activities such as maintenance, restoration, construction, signage, and the acquisition of trail equipment or property. Projects that prioritize accessibility, environmental sustainability, or community-wide benefits receive additional scoring consideration. Funds can be used to improve accessibility for all users, including those with disabilities, and to address environmental concerns such as erosion control and habitat restoration. Both motorized and non-motorized trails—including ATV, snowmobile, mountain biking, equestrian, and hiking trails—are eligible for support under this program. Eligible applicants include political subdivisions within Nebraska. While private entities may assist financially, they cannot serve as the main sponsor. The program requires a minimum 20 percent local match, with at least 5 percent of that contribution being in cash. This match may include eligible costs such as design engineering, environmental assessments, and labor provided directly by the sponsor, though volunteer labor is not accepted for match purposes. All matching contributions must be documented, and a commitment letter from the sponsor’s Chief Financial Officer is required at the time of application submission to confirm funds are on hand. The RTP is a reimbursement-based grant program, where successful applicants front the project costs and are later reimbursed up to 80 percent of allowable expenses. Project sponsors must be able to manage their cash flow, as the reimbursement process can take 45–60 days. Only costs incurred after formal federal approval are eligible for reimbursement. Pre-approval by grant staff is required before any work may begin, and failure to adhere to this requirement may jeopardize funding. Applications for the 2025 cycle open on May 5 at 8 a.m. CT and close on August 22 at noon CT. The RTP is a recurring opportunity, with project award announcements released by late January of the following year. A recorded webinar from March 27, 2025, is available to guide applicants through the RTP and Land and Water Conservation Fund processes. Prospective applicants are encouraged to submit their draft application to NGPC at least four weeks before the deadline to receive feedback and improve their submission. For questions regarding the program, applicants can contact Alexander Duryea, the RTP Program Manager, at 402-471-5443 or via email at alexander.duryea@nebraska.gov. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is located at 2200 N. 33rd St., Lincoln, NE 68503. All applicants are required to submit a detailed maintenance plan for the project covering the trail's upkeep over its expected life span—25 years for non-motorized and 10 years for motorized trails. Quarterly progress reports are also mandatory to retain funding throughout the implementation period.