Delaware has committed nearly $2.2 million to 18 park and trail projects across the state, marking the largest single investment in the four-decade history of the Outdoor Recreation, Parks and Trails Program.
The announcement from the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control signals substantial public infrastructure development that will reshape outdoor recreation access throughout all three Delaware counties.
Governor Matt Meyer emphasized the significance of the investment for communities historically lacking recreational infrastructure.
“Parks and trails are essential to the well-being of our communities. This record investment will help cities and towns across Delaware create welcoming, accessible outdoor spaces, especially in communities that have too often been left out. By partnering with local governments, we’re making sure every Delawarean has a place to gather, play and connect with the outdoors,” the governor stated.
When combined with required local matching contributions, the total investment in park improvements reaches $11.5 million for 2026. The ORPT Program has provided over $38 million in matching grant assistance since it was created in 1986, according to the state’s announcement of the record improvement grants.
According to a press release, Sussex County secured the largest share of funding, with 10 projects receiving grants. The Town of Georgetown received $190,000 for a trailhead and parking area at Parsons Lane featuring bicycle racks, a trash receptacle, a bike repair station, benches, an outdoor hydration solution, an informational kiosk, and lighting.
The City of Lewes was awarded $150,000 for ADA-compliant pathways connecting playgrounds, restrooms, courts, and the marina at Canalfront Park. The Town of Bethany Beach obtained $150,000 for an ADA-compliant playground with rubber surfacing, curbs, and sidewalk at Municipal Children’s Playground.
Additional Sussex County recipients include the City of Milford, which secured $190,000 for an entrance road, parking lot, trail construction, fencing, and a gate at Deep Branch Park.
The City of Seaford received $190,000 to resurface six tennis courts and replace fencing at Seaford High School. Sussex County government obtained $100,000 for park entrance construction along Gravel Hill Road, access road stabilization, stormwater control, interpretive and wayfinding signage, and ADA-compliant parking at Forest of the Broadkill Preserve.
The Town of Millville received $150,000 for planning, design, and engineering of a parking lot at Evans Park, while the Town of Milton obtained $83,250 to redesign the rail-to-trail roadway crossing with perpendicular alignments, wider ramps, and warning signs at Federal Street.
The Town of Selbyville secured $101,250 to install fitness equipment on the walking trail, add fencing to the ball field and park perimeter, and complete site work for a new ballfield at the Town Park.
The strong emphasis on ADA-compliant facilities across nearly every Delaware grant project reflects broader industry recognition that accessible outdoor spaces serve a significant and often underserved market segment. For private campground, RV park, and glamping resort operators, accessibility investments represent both legal responsibility and strategic business opportunity.
Kent County also secured two grants in this funding round. The City of Harrington received $125,000 for an outdoor pavilion with picnic tables, trash receptacles, and ADA-compliant restrooms, along with lighting, electrical infrastructure for paths and green spaces, and trail extension at Parks and Recreation Park. The Town of Little Creek obtained $90,000 for bathroom construction and installation at Town Park.
New Castle County received funding for six projects. The City of New Castle secured $190,000 to design a bike path along the Delaware River from Lukens Drive Industrial Park to Twin Spans Industrial Park and the Bull Hill Historic area. The City of Wilmington obtained $190,000 for new ADA-compliant accessible play features, a basketball court, and picnic tables at Eastlake Park.
DNREC Secretary Greg Patterson underscored the program’s value for communities statewide. “The grants paid for by this trust enable towns, cities, and counties to preserve land and create recreational opportunities in our communities. It is a great investment in the future of Delaware, and we value the work local governments do to make enjoyable green spaces for their constituents and ours,” Patterson said.