BOSTON – The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is now seeking applications for the first phase of the fiscal year 2016 Partnerships Matching Funds Program from friends groups and other park advocacy groups, civic and community organizations, institutions, businesses, municipal governments, and dedicated individuals with an interest in improving the Commonwealth’s natural, cultural, and recreational resources.
Through the program, DCR will allocate $1.25 million in matching funds to finance capital projects at the agency’s parks, beaches, and other facilities. Past projects include: the design and construction of a new playground; repairs to historic buildings; trail and path enhancements; and landscape improvements.
“The Partnerships Matching Funds Program is a great example of how DCR works together with residents and stakeholder organizations to improve our public resources,” said DCR Commissioner Carol Sanchez. “We are proud to continue to build upon the success of the Partnership Matching Funds Program, which has been responsible for a combined investment by the Commonwealth and public and private partners in trails, green spaces, historic structures, and water resources of more than $10 million since 2004.”
Applications for DCR’s matching funds program must provide a match of non-state funds for capital projects at the agency’s parks, beaches, and facilities to be considered. Also, projects that require more than one year to plan and complete will also be under consideration. Once approved, DCR will manage the implementation of the projects in close consultation with the partner(s) making contributions. The agency will match projects dollar for dollar and will also consider providing a two-to-one match in certain instances.
For more information on the program, and to receive an application, call (617) 626-4989, or send an e-mail to [email protected]. Information and applications are also available at www.mass.gov/dcr under the “Get Involved” tab, and then click on “Partnerships”.
