Gov. Whitmer announces nearly $2 million in grants for park and trail improvement and development

Today, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced that 15 communities will share $1,977,300 in Recreation Passport grants for projects, including the addition of a skate park in Mecosta County, new playground equipment in Roscommon County, a new campground and boat launch in Ontonagon County, and park improvements in Barry and Tuscola counties.

“When we invest in our state parks and public lands, we all benefit,” said 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!”

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Funding for this program is derived from sales of Michigan’s Recreation Passport, which gives year-round vehicle access to 100-plus state parks and recreation areas, more than 1,000 state-managed boating access sites, 140-plus state forest campgrounds, and parking at thousands of miles of trails and other outdoor spaces.

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.