The Murphy Administration has announced the 2026 funding round for the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Green Acres Program, which includes updates to eligibility requirements. For the first time, all municipalities can receive a minimum of 25% grant funding for park development projects, opening the door for communities previously limited to loan-only support. A municipality may now submit up to three applications, one each for land acquisition, park development, and stewardship, allowing for more participation and more projects. Municipalities are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to improve recreational access, expand green space, and support inclusive playgrounds.
The application deadline is February 27, 2026, and virtual information sessions begin November 17, 2025. To learn more and apply, visit the Green Acres Program website.
Contact: Ciara Bradley, Research Associate, cbradley@njlm.org, 609-695-3481, x128.