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Recreational Trails Program

The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) in Nebraska is part of a federal grant program that provides funding to states to develop and maintain recreational trails for a variety of activities, such as hiking, biking, horseback riding and off-road vehicle use. The program is managed at the federal level by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and administered by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission for projects within Nebraska.

View program overview

RTP grants

The purpose of financial assistance through RTP is to provide recreational public trails and trail-related development and restoration funding to eligible state and local government entities in Nebraska.

Application dates

OPEN – May 5, 2025 at 8 a.m. CT
CLOSE – Aug. 22, 2025 at noon CT

Grant selection

Project selection announcements occur via Nebraska Game and Parks release in late January of the award year.

RTP policies RTP score sheet

Grant Q&A Webinar

Interested in applying for a Recreational Trails Program grant? Watch our free Zoom webinar on Thursday, March 27 at 11 a.m. CT to learn more about the program, along with helpful tips and instructions about the grant application process. Recreational Trails Program Manager, Alex Duryea, also provides an overview of the program, requirements, FAQs and a timeline of the submission process.

What RTP supports in Nebraska

Accessibility: Projects that improve accessibility for all users, including people with disabilities, are prioritized.
Trail construction and maintenance: Funding can be used to build new trails or maintain existing ones.
Signage and trail amenities: This includes creating signage, trailheads, parking areas and other amenities to support users and provide important information.
Environmental considerations: Projects that address environmental sustainability, such as erosion control and habitat restoration along trails.
Training and education: Funds may be allocated for training related to trail construction, maintenance, or environmental stewardship.
Motorized and non-motorized trails: RTP funding can be used for both motorized and non-motorized trail projects, such as ATV, snowmobile, mountain biking and equestrian trails.