Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP)

The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) is a competitive federal grant program administered by the National Park Service under the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). It is designed to help urban and underserved communities create or improve public parks and outdoor recreation spaces.

Key Points:

• Purpose: Expand access to quality outdoor recreation in economically disadvantaged areas, particularly in cities with populations over 30,000.
• Eligible Applicants: State and local government agencies, often in partnership with nonprofits or community organizations.
• Eligible Projects:
• Acquisition of land for public parks or recreation areas.
• Development or renovation of outdoor facilities (e.g., playgrounds, trails, sports fields).
• Projects must be publicly accessible and provide long-term recreational benefits.
• Funding: Grants typically require a 1:1 non-federal match.
• Selection Criteria: Emphasis on community need, project readiness, environmental sustainability, and potential for positive social and economic impact.
• Application Process: Involves coordination with the state’s LWCF lead agency, submission of detailed project proposals, and compliance with federal environmental and accessibility standards.

In short, ORLP aims to bridge the gap in outdoor recreation access by investing in projects that revitalize communities, promote equity, and encourage healthy lifestyles.