This week, Governor Murphy and Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn LaTourette announced $117 million in recommended Green Acres funding for development and enhancement of parks and preservation of open space. This represents the highest level of Green Acres project funding since 2009.
Green Acres funding allows local governments and nonprofits to leverage millions of additional preservation dollars through matching federal, state, county, and local funds, as well as from private sources. Many of the projects recommended for funding this year address inclusivity and recreation for all, especially in Overburdened Communities.
For this funding round, Green Acres expanded a 2023 county-focused pilot program inviting municipalities to also apply for grants to create completely inclusive playgrounds constructed in compliance with standards established by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs.
The funding recommendations, announced in celebration of Earth Week, aim to improve recreation opportunities for residents across New Jersey and now advance to the independent Garden State Preservation Trust (GSPT) for review, approval, and submission to the legislature for appropriation.
Contact: Frank Marshall, Esq., Associate General Counsel, fmarshall@njlm.org, 609-695-3481, x137.