In 2021, ORR worked to ensure funding for outdoor recreation as part of the Economic Development Administration’s (EDA) American Rescue Plan funding. This effort was rewarded when EDA announced $750 million in funding for Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation projects, helping grow the recreation economy nationwide. $510 million of this funding was distributed in the form of state block grants, while $240 million is being distributed as competitive grants.
From this pool of competitive grant funding, ORR is highlighting the recreation-specific projects that EDA has chosen to fund. These recreation projects are generating wide-ranging positive impacts across the United States, including rural economic development, new recreation infrastructure, public health, and equitable access for all communities. This list will be updated as new awards are announced.
Totals (Updated 10/7):
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$111,041,829 in direct EDA funding
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$39,565,781 in local investment
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$150,607,610 total
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$640,393,500 in private funding leveraged (estimate)
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3295 jobs created (estimate)
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1457 jobs saved (estimate)
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34 States
Alabama
Purchase and installation of synthetic turf for ten baseball/softball fields at the Daphne Sports Complex
City of Daphne, Daphne/Baldwin County, Alabama
$1,650,000, matched by $550,000 in local investment
The project will diversify, expand and enhance the outdoor recreation economy in the city of Daphne. Synthetic turf is a popular attraction, allowing Daphne Sports Complex to be more competitive in scheduling tournaments. Once completed, the project will help strengthen tourism recovery from the economic impacts of the coronavirus pandemic in the area, which will help restore and retain existing jobs to build resiliency to withstand future economic disruptions. The grantee estimates that this investment will help leverage $1,000,000.
Supports: Field sports, Economic Development
Alaska
Development of outdoor recreational infrastructure and amenities at Meals Hill
City of Valdez, Valdez/Chugach County, Alaska
$2,532,734, matched by $633,184 in local investment
The project will help construct bike paths, hiking trails, and other visitor amenities at Meals Hill to attract new visitors and stimulate tourism-related business growth in the area. Once completed, the project will assist in the region’s recovery and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, which will help increase employment opportunities, save jobs, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region.
Supports: Biking, Trail Activities, Economic Development
Constructing a facility at the Small Boat Harbor
Yakutat, Yakutat/Yakutat County, Alaska
$400,000, matched by $100,000 in local investment
This public facility will help the tourism sector recover from adverse impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic by increasing employment opportunities in the area, spurring private investment, and advancing economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 131 jobs, save 131 jobs, and leverage $3,500,000 in private investment.
Supports: Boating, Economic Development
Campus Enhancement Plan for the Homer Society of Natural History (Pratt Museum)
Homer/Kenai Peninsula, Alaska
$85,491, matched by $26,174 in local investment
Guide investment in and development of the Pratt Museum’s 10-acre parcel and fund the design for an ADA-accessible, covered outdoor amphitheater and pavilion. The museum is located in the City of Homer, Alaska, which serves remote communities accessible only by rugged road, boat, or plane, including Alaska Native villages located on remote coastline and secluded Russian Old Believer communities. Homer is the economic, education, health care, and cultural hub in the area, and it is one of the most important maritime harbors in the state. Once completed, the project is expected to encourage a dynamic downtown center to help assist in the region’s recovery from the coronavirus pandemic and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, which will help increase employment opportunities, save jobs, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region.
Supports: General Outdoor recreation, Accessibility, Economic Development
Support the planning and future construction of a riverfront street to redevelop downtown Soldotna in Alaska
City of Soldotna, Soldotna/Kenai Peninsula County, Alaska
$360,000, matched by $90,000 in local investment
The City of Soldotna has experienced significant job loss over the years and the project will allow Soldotna to leverage the region’s fishing and tourism industries by providing infrastructure on vacant and underutilized lands for developments of parks, streets, trails, etc. for business revitalization. These improvements will foster new private capital investment, partnerships, and job creation, while bolstering activity for existing businesses and improving the quality of the built environment for residents and visitors. Once completed, the project will assist in the region’s recovery and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, which will advance economic resiliency throughout the region.
Supports: Fishing and Tourism, Trail Activities, Economic Development
Arizona
New, shared-use trail in Cochise County
City of Bisbee/Bisbee Bikeways, Bisbee/Cochise County, Arizona
$4,522,137, matched by $49,863 in local investment
The project will facilitate construction of a shared-use path for pedestrians and cyclists as part of the Cochise County segment of the Sun Corridor Trail. Once completed, the project will help boost the local economy in the region, which will help increase employment opportunities, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency in the area. The grantees estimate that this investment will help create 233 jobs, save 92 jobs, and leverage $2,800,000 in private investment.
Supports: Biking, Trail Activities, Economic Development
Arkansas
Construction of a mountain biking trail in City of Mena, Arkansas
City of Mena, Mena/Polk County, Arkansas
$275,000, matched by $72,900 in local investment
EDA investment will support the construction of a mountain biking trail to add to the existing network of mountain bike trails in Polk and Montgomery Counties, Arkansas. Approximately 6 miles of trails will be constructed, helping to expand existing businesses as part of an overall community plan, including a mountain bike base camp at an empty school. The former middle school is located just 1.5 miles from the project site and the facility and a basecamp for mountain bikers and other outdoor enthusiasts with the downstairs to be retail and the upstairs residential will enhance established businesses as well as others in the process of opening and future businesses. Once completed, the project will help increase employment opportunities, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region.
Supports: Mountain Biking, Economic Development
Construct Multi-Use Trail System and Museum to Boost Tourism in Arkansas
State of Arkansas
$2,000,000, matched by $500,169 in local investment
The EDA investments announced today are:
- Garland County, Arkansas, will receive a $1 million grant to construct the Garland County portion of the Southwest Trail, a multi-county bicycle and pedestrian trail. The trail will connect Little Rock, Arkansas, to Hot Springs, Arkansas, attracting tourists and boosting outdoor recreation in the region. The project will be matched with $250,000 in local funds.
- Saline County, Arkansas, will receive a $1 million grant to restore the historic Old River Bridge over the Saline River as part of the Southwest Trail, attracting tourists and boosting outdoor recreation in the region. The project will be matched with $250,169 in local funds.
Supports: General Outdoor Recreation, Bicycling, Economic Development
California
Support development of the Mariposa Creek Trailhead and Destination Park
Mariposa County, Mariposa/Mariposa County, California
$671,500, matched by $200,000 in local investment
Support the long-term recovery of tourism in the county through expansion of recreational opportunities designed to make the county a year-round destination for visitors. The project will help businesses that rely on tourism in the area become more resilient to seasonal economic downturns and systemic shocks such as the coronavirus pandemic, which will help increase employment opportunities, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region.
Supports: Trail Activities, Economic Development
Colorado
Fund the Grand County Tourism Revitalization Project, to support the recovery and resilience of Grand County’s tourism and outdoor recreation economy
Grand County, Hot Sulphur Springs/Grand County, Colorado
$400,000, matched by $100,000 in local investment
The project will help the county extend the current summer and winter tourism seasons year-round and diversify the tourism sector by highlighting often overlooked tourist and outdoor reaction attractions in Colorado. By doing this, more stable, year-round jobs will be created, new business opportunities will arise to fill the gap of those that closed during the coronavirus pandemic and struggling businesses will receive needed support and promotion to grow. Once completed, the project will help increase employment opportunities, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region.
Supports: Economic Development
Delaware
Establishment of the Campgrounds Design and Improvement Project
Dover/Kent County, Delaware
$3,212,400, matched by $803,100 in local investment
Design and engineer a planning grant to expand and make infrastructure improvements to Delaware’s five state park campgrounds. The project will focus on campground enhancements to wastewater, drinking water, bathrooms, auxiliary amenities, campsites, and cabins, addressing existing challenges as well as planning for potential areas of growth to meet the needs of tourist and visitors. Once completed, the project will help increase employment opportunities, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region.
Supports: Camping, General Outdoor Recreation, Economic Development
Trail infrastructure improvements to the Jack A. Markell Trail in Delaware
New Castle County, New Castle/New Castle County, Delaware
$822,800, matched by $205,700 in local investment
The project elements include grading, erosion and sedimentation control, paved surface replacement, landscaping, signage, and appurtenances, to improve access to outdoor recreation along the trail. In addition, improvements will include the demolition and removal of existing paved surfaces, which will be replaced with new and green infrastructure for stormwater management and streetscape vegetation, to provide new accessible paved surfaces, curbing, and ADA-accessible walkways. Once completed, the project will enhance the visitor experience in New Castle, which will assist in the area’s recovery and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism and advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 15 jobs and save 30 jobs.
Supports: Trail Activities, Economic Development
District of Columbia
Building an environmental education center at the new 11th Street Bridge Park
Building Bridges Across the River/District Department of Transportation, Washington, District of Columbia
$6,011,505, matched by $1,502,876 in local investment
The center will be a new venue for recreation, education, and regional culture. Once completed, the project will assist in the region’s recovery and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, which will help increase employment opportunities, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantees estimate that this investment will help create 30 jobs, save 179 jobs, and leverage $7,000,000 in private investment.
Supports: Environmental Education, Economic Development
Hawaii
New visitor amenities and attractions
State of Hawaii, Honolulu/Honolulu County, Hawaii
$600,000, matched by $180,000 in local investment
The project will facilitate the retention of additional interpretive staff for outdoor recreational sites of special significance to Native Hawaiian history and heritage, improving the visitor experience and supporting growth in the state’s tourism industry. Once completed, the project will assist in the region’s recovery and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, which will help increase employment opportunities, save jobs, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region.
General Outdoor Recreation, Interpretation, Tribal History, Economic Development
Idaho
Development of a new visitor facility
Nez Perce Tribe, Lapwai/Nez Perce County, Idaho
$1,000,000
The project work includes the construction of visitor amenities, including restrooms, shower facilities, and prefabricated cabins, to provide opportunities for camping and cultural tourism at historically significant sites in the traditional Nez Perce lands in Idaho and Oregon. Once completed, the project will help boost the local economy, increase employment opportunities, save jobs, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 6 jobs and leverage 18 jobs.
Supports: General Outdoor Recreation, Camping, Tribal History, Economic Development
Iowa
Cedar River Recreational Project
City of Cedar Falls, Cedar Falls/Black Hawk County, Iowa
$1,500,000, matched by $3,331,450 in local investment
Construct a series of six jetties on both sides of the Cedar River in Cedar Falls, Iowa, improving the safety of a low head dam and changing the bank stabilization. The project will help Cedar Falls address the local and regional need for expanded riverfront tourism by improving river access infrastructure to support in-stream users interested in floating and paddling and on-bank users interesting in picnicking, playing, and angling. The economic impact of these increased outdoor recreation and tourism activities will support local businesses and business expansion, and create jobs and private investment, which will advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 129 jobs and leverage $295,000 in private investment.
Supports: River Recreation, Economic Development
Kansas
Creation of an Outdoor Riverfront Park at Exploration Place
Wichita, Kansas
$1,255,989, matched by $313,997 in local investment
Support the creation of an outdoor riverfront park at Exploration Place in Wichita, Kansas. The project will provide the Exploration Place science and discovery center a space for new and expanded events, bringing new visitors to the city, its businesses, and attractions. Once completed, the improvements will assist in the region’s recovery and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, which will help increase employment opportunities and advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 21 jobs.
Supports: General Outdoor Recreation, Economic Development
Maine
Installation of a new lift and upgrade of the snowmaking capability to extend the ski season
Big Rock, Mars Hill/Aroostook County, Maine
$2,538,800, matched by $634,700 in local investment
The new lift will be a fixed-grip chairlift that will require earthwork, concrete, and erection for the base and top terminals, lift towers, and operator houses. The snowmaking upgrades will include the installation of a multi-pump system, additional snow producers, associated piping and electrical infrastructure for additional snowmaking locations. Once completed, the project will help the region become more resilient to fluctuations in tourism and assist in the region’s recovery, which will help increase employment opportunities, save jobs, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency in the area. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 11 jobs, save 44 jobs, and leverage $2,000,000 in private investment.
Supports: Snow Activities, Economic Development
Whitewater Recreation project in Somerset County, Maine
Somerset County, Maine
$4,889,600, matched by $1,222,400 in local investment
The project work includes creating two whitewater rapid features through excavation of existing river and bank bedrock; constructing new river rock outcroppings; and reshaping the river bottom. In addition, features will utilize drop and water velocity to enhance existing rapids and create whitewater waves for high-quality recreation. The whitewater park is a destination and national events venue, and this project will help drive visitation, support business growth and retention, attract new entrepreneurs and residents, spur private investment and job creation, and diversify the tax base, resulting in a stronger and more resilient economy in the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 40 jobs, save 136 jobs, and leverage $37,800,000 in private investment.
Supports: Paddlesports, Economic Development
Expansion of Port Town Landing Pier
Town of St. George, Tenants Harbor/Knox County, Maine
$3,851,084, matched by $962,771 in local investment
Support the expansion of the Port Clyde town landing pier, to provide vehicle maneuvering room, and make miscellaneous improvements including, wheel stops, electric power and water to the floating docks, adding hydraulic hoists for catch/cargo, and installing facility lighting in Knox County, Maine. The Port Clyde Landing represents one of the only public facilities in the region that provides access for recreational boating, commercial fishing, and tourism related activities, all of which are key components of the local and regional economy. Once completed, the project will assist in the region’s recovery and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, which will help increase employment opportunities, save jobs, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 15 jobs and save 151 jobs.
Supports: Boating Infrastructure, Economic Development
Maryland
Redevelopment of the Cambridge waterfront through construction of a new promenade
Cambridge, Maryland
$2,400,000, matched by $600,000 in local investment
This project will support redevelopment of the Cambridge waterfront through construction of a new promenade and other improvements. This EDA grant will be matched with $600,000 in local funds, and is expected to help create 73 jobs, retain seven jobs, and generate $20 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.
Supports: General Outdoor Recreation, Economic Development
Development of the Outdoor Recreation and Nature -Tourism Project
City of Havre de Grace, Havre de Grace/Hartford County, Maryland
$319,000, matched by $79,800 in local investment
Construction/installation of a public boat pier/dock, the purchase of an EV tourism transportation vehicle with installation of EV charging stations, and the completion of Swan Harbor Trail in Harford, Maryland. The project will greatly facilitate day tourism with recreational boaters and is key to the city’s recovery plan for water tourism. In addition, the project will allow nature trekkers an additional nature trail in Havre de Grace. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, fewer visitors traveled to the region, which caused a downturn and loss of revenue across the state. The project will encourage new business ventures, create new jobs opportunities, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency in the area. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 15 jobs, save 15 jobs, and leverage $300,000 in private investment.
Supports: Recreational Boating, EV Charging, Hiking, Economic Development
Massachusetts
New multi-use path (bicycle and pedestrian) through Southbridge, Massachusetts
Town of Southbridge, Southbridge/Worcester County, Massachusetts
$2,623,625, matched by $1,500,000 in local investment
The Quinebaug Valley Rail Trail will expand upon the existing tourism industry in the region, as the trail will traverse downtown Southbridge and parallel to existing commercial corridors. By linking trails and businesses, the project will help boost the local economy in Southbridge and the region, which will help increase employment opportunities, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency in the area. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 45 jobs, save 25 jobs, and leverage $3,300,000 in private investment.
Supports: Trail Activities, Economic Development
Support water infrastructure improvements to develop the Greylock Glen Resort in Berkshire County, Massachusetts
Town of Adams, Adams/Berkshire County, Massachusetts
$2,894,500, matched by $1,240,500 in local investment
The town has been hard hit by the coronavirus pandemic and the development of this facility will significantly expand tourism and outdoor recreational opportunities in the area. The county relies on arts, entertainment, and recreation, as well as accommodation and food services to support a strong economy in its region. The project will help drive business back to the hospitality and tourism community, to enhance economic impact and reestablish tourism as the number one economic driver in the county. Once completed, the project will assist in the region’s recovery and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, which will help increase employment opportunities, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 476 jobs and leverage $42,000,000 in private investment.
Supports: Water Infrastructure, Economic Development
Michigan
Upgrading the downtown riverwalk along the Manistee River
City of Manistee, Manistee/Manistee County, Michigan
$850,000, matched by $240,000 in local investment
The project will provide safety upgrades and improve access and walkability on the south riverwalk bringing new visitors to the region and stimulating business and job growth. Once completed, the project will help build resiliency to withstand future economic disruptions, which will boost and promote economic growth throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 21 jobs, save 26 jobs, and leverage $178,500 in private investment.
Supports: General Outdoor Recreation, Economic Development
Extending the Betsie Valley Trail and constructing a bridge over Bear Creek
Northwest Michigan Council of Governments/State of Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Traverse City/Grand Traverse County, Michigan
$1,391,280, matched by $347,820 in local investment
EDA investment will support the Northwest Michigan Council of Governments with extending the Betsie Valley Trail and constructing a bridge over Bear Creek that will provide direct access from local communities to the trail in Michigan. The project will help boost the outdoor recreation sector by enhancing trail capacity, which will encourage new business ventures, create new jobs opportunities, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency in the area. The grantees estimate that this investment will help create 50 jobs, save 15 jobs, and leverage $500,000 in private investment.
Supports: Trail activities, Economic Development
Support development of the Western Upper Peninsula Tourism Economic Impact Analysis, to help regional leaders better-understand how to capitalize on tourism and outdoor recreation as a regional economic driver in Hancock, Michigan
Hancock/Houghton County, Michigan
$119,913, matched by $29,979 in local investment
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the region’s tourism industry but also created demand and opportunities in outdoor recreation for the region. Once completed, the project will help the region respond to damage to the travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation sectors from the coronavirus pandemic, which will enhance future economic sustainability, strengthen the regional economy, and bolster economic resiliency throughout the region.
Supports: Economic Development
Minnesota
Redeveloping and enhancing the Appleton Area Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Park
Swift County, Benson/Swift County, Minnesota
$1,034,196, matched by $443,227 in local investment, to Swift County, Benson/Swift County, Minnesota
As the region recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, the economy’s recovery and resilience to future economic disruptions requires improvements at the Appleton OHV Park. The project will ensure the Park’s long-term viability as a critical source of tourism-based economic activity, which will help increase employment opportunities, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 25 jobs, save 25 jobs, and leverage $50,000 in private investment.
Supports: Motorized Recreation, Economic Development
Construction of the new Ely Regional Trailhead Facility
City of Ely, Ely/Saint Louis County, Minnesota
$1,500,000, matched by $1,187,702 in local investment
Supports construction of the new Ely Regional Trailhead Facility, which will enhance the region’s attractiveness as a tourist destination in Saint Louis County, Minnesota. Ely’s economy is significantly more reliant on tourism than the rest of Minnesota, and pandemic-related business closures reduced payrolls associated with the industry by as much as 18 percent from 2020 to 2021. The project will provide for amenities such as restrooms, vending machines, and common areas designed to welcome tourists to the region and its local businesses, which will assist in the region’s recovery and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, increase employment opportunities, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 75 jobs, save 50 jobs, and leverage $500,000 in private investment.
Supports: Hiking, Economic Development
Support the development of its new outdoor recreation trail plan
Slayton/Murray County, Minnesota
$167,198, matched by $41,800 in local investment
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the Southwest Minnesota region suffered devastating job losses and business closures. The project will conduct a study and analyses of the populations engaging in outdoor recreation and current community outreach efforts to assist the region in increasing tourism activity in the area. Once completed, the project will help the region become more resilient to fluctuations in tourism and capitalize outdoor recreation assets, which will help increase employment opportunities and spur private investment throughout the region.
Supports: Trail Activities, Economic Development
Montana
Constructing river access improvements including an ADA-accessible path, access stairs, a concrete viewing platform, and stone terrace seating along the Clark Fork River
City of Missoula/Missoula Downtown Association, Missoula/Missoula County, Montana
$1,220,304, matched by $305,076 in local investment
EDA investment will construct river access improvements including an ADA accessible path, access stairs, a concrete viewing platform, and stone terrace seating along the Clark Fork River, adjacent to Caras Park in Missoula County, Montana. The project will create jobs in Missoula’s hospitality, tourism, retail and restaurant sectors, which were among the industries hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, the project will allow for the expansion of existing water-based events and create opportunities for new events to be established, which will increase recreational use and the absence of formal river access along the riverbank. Once completed, the project will help the region become more resilient to fluctuations in tourism and assist in the region’s recovery, which will help increase employment opportunities and advance economic resiliency in the area. The grantees estimate that this investment will help create 21 jobs.
Supports: River Access, Boating, Fishing, Economic Development
Nevada
Support construction of outdoor recreational visitor facilities
Carson City/Carson City County, Nevada
$3,712,000, matched by $928,000 in local investment
Support construction of outdoor recreational visitor facilities in Boulder City and Carson City to enhance adventure tourism in the state and bolster the success of associated businesses. Once completed, the project will help the region respond to damage to the travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation sectors from the coronavirus pandemic and boost the economic resilience of areas dependent on those industries.
Supports: General Outdoor Recreation, Economic Development
Boulder City Dark Sky Lighting Infrastructure Retrofitting Project
Carson City/Carson City County, Nevada
Supports: $1,927,800, matched by $617,898 in local investment
The project supports the growth of the tourism sector in Boulder City by installing 2,560 light pollution-reducing lighting fixtures in Boulder City, improving night sky-viewing and the development of tourism-related businesses throughout the region. Once completed, the project will help the region become more resilient to fluctuations in tourism and assist in the region’s recovery, which will help increase employment opportunities, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency in the area. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 21 jobs and leverage $400,000 in private investment.
Supports: General Outdoor Recreation, Dark Sky, Economic Development
New Hampshire
Construct a 2.2-mile multi-use recreational path
Mount Washington Valley Trails Association, North Conway, New Hampshire
$2,200,000, matched by $989,985 in local investment
This project will boost tourism by extending an existing path from the Cranmore Mountain Resort north to the Intervale Scenic Vista. The EDA investment will be matched with $989,985 in local funds and is expected to create 30 jobs, retain 15 jobs and generate $70 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.
Supports: General Outdoor Recreation, Trail Activities
New Jersey
Boardwalk Revitalization Project
City of Atlantic City, Atlantic City/Atlantic County, New Jersey
$6,000,000, matched by $1,500,000 in local investment
The project work includes the engineering, construction, and construction management of the wooden way, which is in the center of the city and is highly visible and ideally located. The largest tourism attraction in Atlantic City and in New Jersey is the famed Atlantic City Boardwalk. The Boardwalk structure is now over 100 years old and replacing this aging infrastructure will assist in the region’s recovery and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, which will help increase employment opportunities, save jobs, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 125 jobs and leverage $5,000,000 in private investment.
Supports: General Outdoor Recreation, Economic Development
Reconstruction of two and a half blocks of the Wildwood Boardwalk
City of Wildwood, Wildwood/Cape May County, New Jersey
$3,250,000, matched by $845,000 in local investment
As the primary economic driver for both the City and County, this reconstruction project will not only lead to an increase in customers for businesses on and around the boardwalk, including retail, entertainment, food service, accommodations, short-term property rentals, and other tourism-related businesses, but will ensure that these increases remain a permanent part of the local economy. The reconstruction of the boardwalk ensures that it remains an economic driver for the coronavirus pandemic economic recovery efforts and to build the resilience of the regional economy that depends on tourism for fiscal viability. Once completed, the project will help the region become more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, which will help increase employment opportunities and spur private investment throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 109 jobs and leverage $6,000,000 in private investment.
Supports: General Outdoor Recreation, Economic Development
New Mexico
Construction of a trail segment to improve the Santa Fe Rail Trail
Santa Fe County, Santa Fe/Santa County, New Mexico
$678,128, matched by $169,533 in local investment
EDA investment will support the construction of a trail segment to improve the Santa Fe Rail Trail, a 15-mile regional trail that provides a significant opportunity for the County to leverage its natural resources in New Mexico. The County is recognized for and committed to enhancing its outdoor recreation and ecotourism opportunities. Tourism in Santa Fe was a major economic force, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the tourism industry collapsed and resulted in huge losses in visitor spending and related jobs. The project will help revitalize tourism in the area by providing a multi-modal outdoor corridor connecting existing railyard districts to the historical town of Lamy. Once completed, the project will help restore and retain existing jobs to build resiliency to withstand future economic disruptions.
Supports: Trail Activities, Economic Development
North Carolina
Establishment of a new interpretive environmental center
Davidson County, Lexington/Davidson County, North Carolina
$1,310,480, matched by $327,620 in local investment
Establishment of a new interpretive environmental center to provide tourists and outdoor recreation enthusiasts an opportunity to learn about the cultural and geologic history of the area. The center will connect tourists to the region’s travel and tourism amenities, and will offer a wide array of classes, camps, and programs to further attract tourists to Lexington, North Carolina. In addition, the project work will include related water and parking infrastructure to further support tourism growth in the area. The project will help boost the local tourism industry by bringing new visitors to the city, its businesses, and attractions, which will help increase employment opportunities, spur private investment, assist in the region’s recovery, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 40 jobs and leverage $79,000,000 in private investment.
Supports: Recreational Boating, General Outdoor Recreation, Economic Development
Support the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation (BRPF) with establishing a strategic planning process to help engage community leaders in all 12 Virginia Blue Ridge Parkway counties
Winston-Salem/Forsyth County, North Carolina
$393,193, matched by $102,689 in local investment
The BRPF will work alongside community leaders in each county to examine the Blue Ridge Parkway as a community asset and identify strategies to grow travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation in rural and underserved communities. The economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has been felt all along the Blue Ridge Parkway corridor in Virginia and this project will assist in the region’s recovery and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, which will help increase employment opportunities, spur private investment, and promote the economic resilience of regions dependent on the travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation industries.
Supports: Economic Development
Support Triangle J Council of Governments with conducting a corridor feasibility and economic impact analysis to determine how to best leverage the Haw River to drive economic recovery within the travel and tourism sectors and facilitate economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic
Durham/Durham County, North Carolina
$284,260, matched by $71,065 in local investment
Additionally, the analysis will identify ways to capitalize on gaps and expand economic and community development opportunities, to help enhance economic impact and reestablish tourism as the number one economic driver in the area. Once completed, the project will assist in the region’s recovery and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, which will help increase employment opportunities, save jobs, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantees estimate that this investment will help create 15 jobs and leverage $30,000 in private investment.
Supports: River Activities, Economic Development
North Dakota
Fund the Frost Fire Park Snowmaking Infrastructure Improvement and Expansion Project
Walhalla/Pembina County, North Dakota
$2,170,488, matched by $542,622 in local investment
Update infrastructure that will improve the quality and longevity of the winter sports activities in the park. The project will support Pembina Gorge Foundation with addressing the local and regional need for expanded and resilient tourism and outdoor recreation activities in the park. Once completed, the project will have direct economic impact on the park’s operations, particularly its winter sports season and other activities, which will drive and expand its business, increase employment opportunities, save jobs, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 23 jobs.
Supports: Winter Sports, Economic Development
Ohio
Upgrades to Burr Oak State Park
Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Columbus/Franklin County (Project: Glouster/Morgan County), Ohio
$2,418,500, matched by $604,625 in local investment
The project will include new campsite amenities, trail segments, and docks at the marina to enhance the visitor experience at the park. The project will encourage new business ventures, create new jobs opportunities, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency in the area. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 100 jobs and save 25 jobs.
Supports: Camping, Trail Activities, Boating, Fishing, Economic Development
Build 60-acre recreational vehicle (RV) campground at the wildlife conservation center to help attract tourists to 10,000-acre park
Cumberland/Guernsey County, Ohio
$2,155,616, matched by $700,000 in local investment
Support the International Center for the Preservation of Wild Animals (The Wilds) in Ohio, with building a 60-acre recreational vehicle (RV) campground at the wildlife conservation center to help attract tourists to 10,000-acre park, which is located on reclaimed coal mine land along the Appalachian Byway. Throughout its history, the Guernsey County region relied on coal mining, and The Wilds facility was built on recovered coal mine land. The ongoing decline of the coal industry, together with sudden job losses and business closures, devastated the region’s economy in recent years. The RV campground will help the region recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and will drive economic activity, diversification, and resilience in the region’s growing tourism economy. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 100 jobs, save 25 jobs, and leverage $500,000 in private investment.
Supports: RV Infrastructure, Economic Development
Oregon
Construction of an entry plaza at Cottage Grove’s Bohemian Park
City of Cottage Grove, Cottage Grove/Lane County, Oregon
$1,097,807, matched by $274,450 in local investment
Support construction of an entry plaza at Cottage Grove’s Bohemian Park, improving the visitor experience and boosting local tourism in Lane County. Once completed, the project will assist in the region’s recovery and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, which will help increase employment opportunities, save jobs, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region.
Supports: General Outdoor Recreation, Trail Activities, Economic Development
Expansion of an existing trail system to catalyze the local tourist sector in Lane County
City of Eugene, Eugene/Lane County, Oregon
$1,214,479, matched by $724,836 in local investment
The project will support the Suzanne Arlie Park Trails and Mountain Bike Facilities project by extending the 13-mile Ridgeline Trail system, boosting the local tourism economy by expanding opportunities for outdoor recreation. Once completed, the project will help the region become more resilient to fluctuations in tourism and assist in the region’s recovery, which will help increase employment opportunities, save jobs, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency in the area. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 22 jobs, save 4 jobs, and leverage $200,000 in private investment.
Supports: Biking, Trail Activities, Economic Development
Design and construction of a new 32,000 square foot park in downtown Portland
City of Portland, Portland/Multnomah County, Oregon
$1,209,600, matched by $302,400 in local investment
The project will support the recovery of the tourism sector through recreational infrastructure improvements and beautification. Once completed, the project will help the region respond to damage to the travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation sectors from the coronavirus pandemic and boost the economic resilience of areas dependent on those industries. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 205 jobs, save 84 jobs, and leverage $1,900,000 in private investment.
Supports: General Outdoor Recreation, Economic Development
Rhode Island
Blackstone River Bikeway connecting Pawtucket and National Park Services Slater Mill Historic Park and the existing Blackstone Bikeway path
City of Pawtucket, Pawtucket/Providence County, Rhode Island
$4,812,600, matched by $1,357,400 in local investment
The project will also connect to a new Tidewater Landing mixed-use brownfields redevelopment anchored with an 11,000-seat United Soccer League soccer stadium and the Armory Arts District and other recreational resources in the city. The project will help addresses economic harm to the travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation industry due to the coronavirus pandemic by increasing economic opportunity and creating jobs in the travel, leisure, and hospitality sectors. Once completed, the project will assist in the region’s recovery and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, which will help increase employment opportunities, save jobs, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 538 jobs and leverage $284,100,000 in private investment.
Supports: Bike Activities, Economic Development
South Dakota
Construction of a pedestrian bridge, outdoor visitor plaza, recreational trail, outdoor exhibits and art installations
City of Fort Pierre, Fort Pierre/Stanley County, South Dakota
$1,860,263, matched by $513,000 in local investment
The project will fund construction of a pedestrian bridge, outdoor visitor plaza, recreational trail, outdoor exhibits and art installations, and landscaping to create more recreational opportunities in Fort Pierre, South Dakota. The project improvements will directly impact the Tatanka Trail development area, which supports South Dakota’s central region in its efforts to address impacts in the travel and tourism industry as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Once completed, the project will assist in the region’s recovery and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, which will help increase employment opportunities, save jobs, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 50 jobs and leverage $37,000,000 in private investment.
Supports: General Outdoor Recreation, Economic Development
Improvements at the Lake Mitchell marina and surrounding trail system
City of Mitchell, Mitchell/ Davison County, South Dakota
$1,000,000, matched by $937,677 in local investment
The project will support outdoor recreation and boost the local tourism industry by bringing new visitors to the City of Mitchell, its businesses, and local attractions, which will support the community as it recovers from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Once completed, the project will also assist the region by making it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, which will help increase employment opportunities, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the area. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 20 jobs.
Supports: Recreational Boating, Hiking, Economic Development
Tennessee
Tailout Trail, Tom Lee Park
City of Memphis, Memphis/Shelby County, Tennessee
$3,731,439, matched by $6,088,137 in local investment
The Tailout Trail, will be one-of-a-kind, inviting visitors up and (during high water) over river habitat for spectacular views of the Mississippi, the Arkansas floodplain and the more than 325 bird species. The project will draw national attention and support to Memphis and is expected to bring thousands of new visitors to the riverfront. These visitors will have a significant impact on nearby restaurants, music venues and hotels. Once completed, the Tailout Trail will be a major focal point for eco-tourism in Memphis, spawning new small businesses associated with river touring, biking, and hiking, which will help increase employment opportunities, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantees estimate that this investment will help leverage $2,800,000 in private investment.
Supports: Trail Activities, River Touring, Biking, Hiking, Economic Development
Utah
Construction of a nature education and outdoor exploration facility
Stokes Nature Center, Providence/Cache County, Utah
$1,885,000, matched by $471,250 in local investment
EDA investment will support the construction of a nature education and outdoor exploration facility to include boardwalk and trails, parking lot and drive, road improvements and sidewalk, amphitheater, outdoor pavilion including an outdoor kitchen, restrooms, yurt, outdoor classroom, a wildlife observation tower and viewing blind, camping area, and play area. The project will facilitate job growth and private investment as well as creating a space for affordable outdoor recreation and education opportunities that will support nature-based tourism in the region. In addition, the project will assist in the region’s recovery and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, which will help increase employment opportunities and advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 10 jobs.
Supports: Outdoor education, General Outdoor Recreation, Wildlife Viewing, Camping, Economic Development
Support the National Ability Center (NAC) with addressing the local and regional need for outdoor recreation programs and equipment for people with disabilities in Park City, Utah
Park City/Summit County, Utah
$371,678, matched by $92,920 in local investment
By increasing the number of programs and activities offered, hiring additional staff and instructors, and increasing equipment, NAC will be able to offer over 2,000 additional lessons throughout the year, which will increase equitable access to outdoor recreation and tourism activities in the region. Once completed, the project will assist in the region’s recovery and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, which will help increase employment opportunities, save jobs, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 14 jobs.
Supports: Disabled Access, Economic Development
Virginia
Infrastructure upgrades to support the local tourism industry
City of Fredericksburg, Fredericksburg/Fredericksburg City County, Virginia
$1,200,000, matched by $300,000 in local investment
The project will provide for the construction of a performance stage and restroom facilities at the recently opened Riverfront Park recreational area. In the center of the historic downtown district of Fredericksburg, Riverfront Park is a 3.6-acre greenspace designed for visitors and residents connecting the Rappahannock River with Sophia Street, an essential location for a unified recreational corridor. These improvements will directly support expanding and sustaining tourism opportunities in Fredericksburg, which will help increase employment opportunities, save jobs, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 150 jobs and save 150 jobs.
Supports: General Outdoor Recreation, Economic Development
Washington
Improvements to an existing tourist infrastructure in Pacific County
City of Long Beach, Long Beach/Pacific County, Washington
$2,483,618, matched by $620,904 in local investment
The project work includes the renovation of 2,150 feet of waterfront boardwalk, improving this key visitor amenity critical to the local tourist economy. Once completed, the project will assist in the region’s recovery and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, which will help increase employment opportunities, spur private investment, and promote economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 35 jobs, save 71 jobs, and leverage $1,600,000 in private investment.
Supports: General Outdoor Recreation, Economic Development
West Virginia
Constructing recreational improvements across to serve as the gateway to the newly designated New River Gorge National Park
City of Smithers/City of Montgomery, Smithers/Fayette County, West Virginia
$1,401,541, matched by $350,386 in local investment
The project improvements will include renovation of the Montgomery Marina, the construction of the River Cities Trail and the construction of the Oakland Riverfront Park. Once completed, the project will help further enhance the resiliency of tourism and hospitality industries in the area, which will boost and promote economic growth throughout the region. The grantees estimate that this investment will help create 53 jobs, save 28 jobs, and leverage $5,600,000 in private investment.
Supports: Boating, Fishing, General Outdoor Recreation, Economic Development
Develop and expand recreational mountain biking infrastructure in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle
South Charleston, West Virginia
$2,800,000, matched by $700,000 in local investment
This project will support completion of the bike trail system at Cacapon State Park, including trail design and construction, and development of bike facilities. This EDA grant will be matched with $700,000 in local funds, and is expected to help create 36 jobs, retain 46 jobs and generate $934,000 in private investment, according to grantee estimates.
Supports: Mountain Biking, Economic Development
Construction of the Mylan Park Regional BMX Facility
Morgantown, West Virginia
$4,681,270, matched by $1,170,317 in local investment
To help boost the local tourism industry by bringing new visitors to the city, its businesses, and attractions. The project will help drive business back to the hospitality and tourism community, to enhance economic impact and reestablish tourism as the number one economic driver in the state. The new jobs created and retained will be in the hospitality sector, including retail, dining, lodging, and management and services positions at the facility. Once completed, the project will assist in the region’s recovery and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism, which will help increase employment opportunities, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantee estimates that this investment will help create 80 jobs, save 2 jobs, and leverage $1,200,000 in private investment.
Supports: Bicycle Riding, Economic Development
Wisconsin
Northwest Wisconsin Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Opportunities Study
Spooner/Washburn County, Wisconsin
$393,113, matched by $98,279 in local investment
Provide a long-term plan for travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation in northwest Wisconsin. The study will chart a path toward recovery and resilience for the region’s tourism industry. The COVID-19 pandemic, and resulting drop in travel and tourism revenue, devastated the region’s tourism economy and left businesses searching for ways to recover and mitigate future economic disasters. Once completed, the project will help the region become more resilient to fluctuations in tourism and assist in the region’s recovery, which will help increase employment opportunities, save jobs, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency in the area.
Supports: General Outdoor Recreation, Long-Range Planning, Economic Development
New 5,000 square foot trailhead facility to welcome visitors to Lapham Peak and the Kettle Moraine State Forest
Friends of Lapham Peek Unit-Kettle Moraine State Forest, Inc./Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Delafield/Waukesha County, Wisconsin
$1,299,900, matched by $669,600 in local investment
EDA investment will fund construction of Lapham Lodge, a new 5,000 square foot trailhead facility to welcome visitors to Lapham Peak and the Kettle Moraine State Forest in Delafield, Wisconsin. The project will help boost tourism to assist in the region’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and make it more resilient to fluctuations in tourism. Once completed, the project will help increase employment opportunities, save jobs, spur private investment, and advance economic resiliency throughout the region. The grantees estimate that this investment will help create 25 jobs, save 10 jobs, and leverage $206,000 in private investment.
Supports: Trail activities, Economic Development