Demand for Maine trails grants remains high in second round of funding

PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • August 11, 2026

For the second year in a row, demand for grants from the Maine Trails Program far exceeds the amount of money available. In 2024, voters overwhelmingly supported a $30 million bond for the design and development of trails for outdoor recreation and active transportation. The state has until 2034 to spend the money and can allocate up to $7.5 million in grants every year. If the high level of interest continues, however, the money will likely be gone by 2029.