Recreational Trails Program (RTP)

Recreational Trails Program (RTP) is sponsored by Mat-Su Trails & Parks Foundation. Supports projects that expand and enhance the trail network and parks in the Mat-Su Borough, Alaska.

Grants - Mat-Su Trails & Parks Foundation Independence Mine State Historical Park The Mat-Su Trails & Parks Foundation (MSTPF) partners with entities on projects and efforts that expand and enhance the valley’s trail network and parks. The foundation considers grant applications for financial assistance on a competitive basis each quarter as funding availability allows.

400+ Miles of Trails Developed $5,000,000 total dollars leveraged 85 Miles of New Trails Created Prospective grantees must be legal entities, provide services or benefits to Mat-Su area residents and have a tax identification number (EIN) to qualify for grants: Alaska Native Non-Profit Organization Federally Recognized Tribe Government Entity or Community Council Organizations with a major purpose of influencing legislation or supporting candidates for political or appointed office Organizations that discriminate by reason of race, religion, gender, national origin, or political orientation The MSTPF supports organizations that advance quality trails and parks in the Mat-Su Borough.

The foundation considers applications for financial assistance on a competitive basis each quarter as funding availability allows: Physical improvements or development of trails and trailheads, parks, and recreation sites Trail, park and playground amenities, equipment and signage Projects on private property without legal easement Fundraising events or tournaments Reimbursement for items in a completed project or items already purchased Ongoing operations or program funding Indirect rates or costs not associated with proposed project $20,000 and below – No match required; however, the match is encouraged.

$20,001 – $50,000 – Minimum Match of 3:1 is required: Cash or In-kind. Ex: a $40,000 total project budget would mean the applicant provides $10,000 cash and in-kind match. Half of the match must be cash totaling at least $5,000.

In-kind grantee volunteer hours are limited to $28. 54 per hour. In-Kind Match may not exceed 50% of the match.

Contractors willing to donate time not associated with the grantee may do so at the rate they normally charge.) $50,001 – $100,000 – Minimum Match of 2:1 required: Cash and In-kind match accepted. In-kind match may not exceed 50% of the total match—same in-kind terms as above.

Grant Guidelines (Updated Nov.

2024) Application Open: November 3rd, 2025 Applications Due: December 31st, 2025 Grants Committee Review Begins: January 6th, 2026 Board Review and Approval: February 18th, 2026 Award Notification: Week of February 23rd, 2026 Applications Open: June 1st, 2026 Applications Due: July 29th, 2026 Grants Committee Review Begins: August 4th, 2026 Board Review and Approval: September 16th, 2026 Award Notification: Week of September 21st, 2026 Looking for event or program sponsorship?

The Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation is now offering sponsorships. Please email info@matsutrails. org with questions or to get a copy of our sponsorship application.

“ Equipment rental and gravel for the trails was provided by the MST&P Foundation. Community volunteers spent many hours providing the labor to build the trails. They enjoyed the opportunity to create these park features which contribute to the health and enjoyment of the community.

I would say that the work days spent on the trails were quite fun. ” Meadow Lakes Community Development Use our online grant portal application to apply! If you have any questions about the application process, please contact MSTPF staff by email or call the office at 907-746-8757 .

As of August 2021 the Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation will no longer be accepting paper or . pdf applications.