Baker-Polito Administration Awards Over $1.2 Million For State Park Enhancement Projects
Press Release | Department of Conservation & Recreation | March 21, 2022
Continuing efforts to enhance the Commonwealth’s State Parks System, the Baker-Polito Administration today announced $1.24 million in funding has been awarded to 29 projects through the Department of Conservation and Recreation’s (DCR) Partnerships Matching Funds Program. This year’s awards, which include 13 new projects, were proposed by municipalities, non-profit organizations, and other entities to partner with the agency through the matching funds program to coordinate improvement projects for many of the Commonwealth’s natural, cultural, and recreational resources contained throughout the state parks system.
“The DCR Partnership Matching Funds Program allows us to work with dedicated stakeholders, such as municipalities, nonprofits, and other community-based organizations to make significant investments within the Massachusetts State Parks System,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Kathleen Theoharides. “Importantly, this funding will be used to improve ecological health, as well enhance and expand public use and enjoyment for years to come.”
Proposed projects within the state parks system are thoroughly reviewed by the DCR. Following the review, the department matches private investments of the selected projects dollar-for-dollar for proposals above $25,000, and two-to-one for proposals $25,000 and under. In certain circumstances, DCR will consider a two-to-one match for contributions above $25,000. All projects are managed by DCR to oversee their implementation with considerable consultation from contributing partners and other stakeholders.
“The Department of Conservation and Recreation is proud to work with so many passionate stakeholders through the Partnership Matching Funds Program,” said DCR Acting Commissioner Stephanie Cooper. “The funding provided to this year’s deserving projects will make great improvements to agency assets and will enhance the visitor experience.”
To see the list of funded projects and read the full press release, please click here