Fed funds available for park projects

Monday, Dec. 31, 2001 | 8:18 a.m.

Federal money for local park and recreation improvements and acquisitions are available through the Nevada Division of State Parks.

About $750,000 in grants may be given statewide in 2002.

The money, through the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund, can be used for most outdoor recreation facilities, such as ballfields, tennis courts, picnic areas and park restrooms.

The matching grants provide 50 percent of the money needed for projects. The minimum grant allowed is $50,000, for a total project cost of $100,000. Exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis for political entities serving fewer than 10,000 people.

The maximum grant is $250,000, for projects of $500,000 or more. Exceptions can be made for projects of "extraordinary merit" at the discretion of the Division of State Parks and the Nevada Advisory Board on Natural Resources.

All political entities -- counties, incorporated cities, unincorporated towns, general improvement districts and tribal governments -- are eligible for the grants.

Applications are due by March 20.

Application packages, including an application and grants manual, will be available next month.

For more information contact the Nevada Division of State Parks, Attn: L&WCF Grants Coordinator, 1300 S. Curry St., Carson City, NV 89703-5202, or via phone at (775) 687-4384.