Boating Access Grants

The Boating Access Grant Program, administered by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, is designed to support the development and enhancement of public recreational boating infrastructure across the state of Texas. Funded through the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act, this program utilizes proceeds from federal excise taxes on fishing equipment and trolling motors, as well as gasoline taxes attributable to motorboat usage. These funds are distributed to states, with Texas using its allocation to improve public access to waters for recreational boating. The program is part of a broader strategy to expand recreational fishing and boating opportunities while ensuring environmental and cultural compliance. This initiative provides a 75% matching fund structure for projects that involve either the planning or construction of public boat ramps and associated facilities. Eligible applicants include local government sponsors who are responsible for providing the remaining 25% of costs, the land for development, and long-term maintenance of the site for a minimum of 25 years. The program is split into two phases: Phase I offers planning grants of up to $250,000 in matching funds, while Phase II supports construction activities contingent upon successful completion of the planning phase and issuance of a Notice to Proceed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Phase I Planning Grant covers costs related to the preparation of plans and specifications, obtaining necessary permits—including those from the Texas Historical Commission, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the Texas Department of Licensing—and other professional services needed to initiate construction. Once planning is approved, applicants may apply for Phase II Construction Grants. These funds can be used for a wide variety of infrastructure projects including breakwaters, ramps, docks, fish cleaning stations, restrooms, parking, access roads, and signage. Enhancements such as dredging, aquatic weed control, and stump removal are also eligible if they support the primary goal of enhancing boat access. In terms of administration, the program operates as a reimbursement grant, where sponsors must initially fund expenditures and then submit documentation for reimbursement. Up to 95% of the total grant award will be reimbursed during the construction phase, with the final 5% held back until completion and final inspection. This ensures accountability and compliance with both state and federal standards. Financial documentation and adherence to required maintenance standards are essential components of the program’s oversight process. Applications for the planning phase must be submitted by February 2 each year, with awards typically announced in May. The grant cycle is recurring annually, allowing potential applicants to plan accordingly for future rounds. The submission and review process does not require preliminary documents like a Letter of Intent, but full planning documentation and permits must be in place prior to progressing to the construction phase. For inquiries, the program can be reached at (512) 389-4800 or (800) 792-1112. Additional support and information about grants and agency forms can be accessed through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s official website. This structured, two-phase approach ensures that boating access developments in Texas are both well-planned and sustainable, meeting the long-term recreational needs of the state while complying with environmental and historical preservation standards.