Maryland has allocated $5 million through the Community Parks and Playgrounds grant program to fund 26 recreation projects across 15 counties for the upcoming fiscal year 2027.
The state’s Department of Natural Resources oversees this competitive funding initiative, which assists municipal governments in upgrading existing recreational facilities, establishing new parks, or acquiring playground equipment.
“Community Parks and Playgrounds grants are investments in outdoor recreation that provide children with opportunities for unstructured play and access to safe natural areas across the state,” said Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Josh Kurtz. “For more than two decades, DNR has been working with local communities to make their visions for outdoor spaces into reality through this program.”
Each approved project will go before the Board of Public Works for final authorization before moving forward.
Among the funded projects, several Eastern Shore communities will receive significant investments. The Town of Delmar in Wicomico County secured two grants totaling over $371,000 for Gordy Park upgrades and sports complex lighting improvements. Caroline County’s Town of Denton received $300,000 for playground expansion at Sharp Road Park, while Preston will get nearly $142,000 for new playground equipment at James T. Wright Park.
Other notable Eastern Shore projects include Cambridge’s $305,000 allocation for developing Leonards Lane Pocket Park with basketball courts and walking paths, and East New Market’s $70,500 grant for Friendship Hall Park enhancements.
The funding supports diverse recreational improvements statewide, from splash pads and skate parks to sports field renovations and inclusive playground installations. Projects range from $23,970 for court lighting in Frostburg to $310,000 for a new restroom and concession facility in Poolesville.
Since launching in fiscal year 2002, this grant program has distributed more than $97 million across over 900 park and playground initiatives throughout Maryland.
The Department of Natural Resources is currently reviewing applications for fiscal year 2028 funding. Officials will conduct virtual information sessions via Google Meet at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, June 23 and 4 p.m. on Thursday, July 23 to discuss grant requirements and answer questions. Applications must be submitted by 3 p.m. on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.
