LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – More than a dozen communities will share nearly $2 million in recreation grants to bolster parks and trails across the state. 

The funding came from the sale of Michigan’s Recreation Passport, which grants annual vehicle access to more than a 100 state parks and recreational areas, state forest campgrounds, and parking for the hundred of miles of trails. 

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“When we invest in our state parks and public lands, we all benefit,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “The Recreation Passport helps us improve parks, trails, playgrounds, campgrounds, and so much more across Michigan, improving quality of life and growing our economy. I am proud that we made the largest investments ever into our state and local parks over the last few years. Let’s keep investing in Pure Michigan!” 

The Recreation Passport Grants are funded from 10% of the Recreation Passport revenues, with the remaining funds supporting operations, infrastructure and historic and cultural assets in the state parks and recreation system according to the Governor’s office. 

Recently appointed Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Director Scott Bowen also praised the grants. 

“The Recreation Passport secures critical funding for both state and local community parks,” said DNR Director Bowen. “Because 10% of Recreation Passport sales go to communities through these grants, even more of Michigan’s residents and visitors can enjoy the outdoors. Whether strolling through a neighborhood park during your lunch hour, enjoying time with your grandkids at an accessible playground, or playing volleyball with friends at a beach court, having outdoor spaces available and nearby are important to our mental and physical wellbeing.” 

The counties that received the latest round of grants include: Allegan, Barry, Berrien, Crawford, Ingham, Ionia, Iosco, Mecosta, Montmorency, Ontonagon, Roscommon, St. Clair and Tuscola counties. These areas were given grants based on applications that “clearly demonstrated projects designed to broaden public access to quality outdoor recreation opportunities,” according to the governor’s office. 

After the latest round of investments, the total Recreation Passport grant program awards are more than $18.5 million statewide since 2010. Allegan, Berrien, and St. Clair counties also received funding from the grant program last year. 

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For residents, the Recreational Park pass can be purchased the same time as a license plate renewal, for an annual fee of $13, though a two year option is available for $26. Motorcyclists and those riding mopeds can also buy one for $7. If the pass is bought at a state park, there is an automatic $5 convenience fee added in all cases except for mopeds. 

The application for the next round of Recreation Passport grant funding opens in early 2024, with April 1 as the application deadline.  For more information about the program, see here.