Boating Access Grants

The Texas Parks & Wildlife Department’s Boating Access Grant Program offers 75% matching grant assistance to local government sponsors for constructing or renovating public boat ramps that provide access to public waters for recreational boating. This program is funded through the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act, which collects funds from federal gasoline taxes generated by sales of motorboat fuel and excise taxes on fishing equipment and trolling motors. Fifteen percent of Texas' annual federal funding apportionment must be used for public boating access. Eligible entities for this grant include local government sponsors who are required to provide the land and 25% of the development costs, as well as commit to maintaining the facilities for at least 25 years. Maintenance responsibilities include general upkeep such as grass mowing, litter removal, security, signage maintenance, and any necessary repairs to ensure public safety. The program provides a one-time grant, and local sponsors must agree to take on all future maintenance responsibilities. The program funds a wide range of facilities and activities, including the construction of boat ramps, loading docks, breakwaters, and related infrastructure such as parking areas, restrooms, fish cleaning stations, and security lighting. It also covers the costs of land acquisition, environmental permits, engineering and design, as well as dredging, aquatic weed control, and navigational aids to improve access for motorboats. Projects aimed at enhancing access, like access roads or camping facilities accessible only by boat, are also eligible. Applications for the Boating Access Grant are accepted and reviewed annually by Texas Parks & Wildlife, with a maximum grant request of $500,000. The application must be submitted and approved before any construction begins. The grant operates as a reimbursement program, meaning the local sponsor must first cover project costs and then submit detailed financial records for reimbursement. Up to 95% of the approved grant amount can be reimbursed before the project's final inspection and audit, with the remaining 5% released after successful project completion. Projects are scored by an internal committee, and funding recommendations are typically announced in May each year. Successful projects must meet federal financial standards due to the involvement of federal funds.