The U.S. Department of the Interior announced on September 25 to invest over $254 million from the Land and Water Conservation Fund’s (LWCF) Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program (ORLP). This investment surpasses all previous grants and is now the biggest in program history. These funds will be allocated to 54 projects across 24 states  to build new parks in the area and/or to renovate existing ones. The funding is ultimately aimed at creating or redeveloping parks in urban areas, particularly in disadvantaged communities that lack access to outdoor recreational spaces. This initiative supports President Biden’s America the Beautiful initiative, which emphasizes conservation, climate action, and equitable access to green spaces.

The LWCF is a fund that protects natural areas, water resources, and cultural heritage, and provides recreation opportunities for all Americans. Scenic America advocated to permanently authorize and fully fund the LWCF. Since its full support from the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) in 2020, it has now hosted programs including the ORLP, Recreational Trails Program, Forest Legacy Program, Federal Land Acquisition Program, among others. All of these programs aim to protect natural areas and ensure outdoor recreation opportunities.

The ORLP program focuses on providing equitable access to nature by addressing the needs of urban communities that lack nearby parks and outdoor spaces. This effort is aligned with the Justice40 initiative, which ensures that 40% of federal funding benefits disadvantaged communities. By creating safe and accessible green spaces, the program helps bridge the gap in outdoor access, particularly for underserved populations.

In addition to promoting equity, the ORLP program supports broader economic and environmental goals. Investing in local parks contributes to public health, fosters community cohesion, and enhances climate resilience in urban areas. The program’s competitive, matching-grant structure encourages state and local governments to prioritize these projects, ensuring that park developments are community-driven and tailored to local needs.

The ORLP program will fund 54 projects across the United States with grants supporting a wide range of initiatives, from small-scale park revitalizations to the development of new, large urban parks. Cities benefiting from this funding include Anaheim, Cleveland, Fort Lauderdale, Memphis, and many others, all focused on improving infrastructure and creating outdoor spaces that foster community engagement. These investments are expected to provide much-needed recreational opportunities in underserved areas, contributing to the overall health and well-being of residents while promoting environmental sustainability.

Furthermore, several projects in the Los Angeles area will receive significant funding, highlighting the program’s impact on one of the nation’s largest urban regions. Notably, Puente Hills Landfill Park will receive $15 million, transforming this former landfill into a vibrant green space for local communities. Jordan Downs Central Park in South Los Angeles will also benefit from a $10.99 million grant, aimed at enhancing a key recreational hub in an area with limited park access. Another notable project is the Baltimore Greenway Trail Network, receiving $1.38 million in funding, aims to expand and enhance the city’s trail system, connecting neighborhoods and improving access to outdoor recreational spaces.

The ORLP program’s historic investment reaffirms the federal government’s commitment to conservation and equitable access to nature. By creating more green spaces in underserved urban areas, this initiative promotes environmental justice, public health, and community resilience.