Communities in the 20 coastal counties can apply for funding to improve public access to coastal beaches and waters.
North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Coastal Management will accept preapplications until 5 p.m. April 25 for the Public Beach and Coastal Waterfront Access program.
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This year, around $2 million is available in matching funds for local governments to construct low-cost public access facilities such as walkways, dune crossovers, restrooms, parking areas, piers and related projects. Funds also may be used for land acquisition or urban waterfront revitalization.
An online grant application workshop is being offered at 2 p.m. on Feb.19. Attendees can learn about eligible projects, local match requirements, project timelines and other relevant grant application requirements. Register online for the workshop.
“The funding provided by the Division of Coastal Management each year through the Public Beach and Coastal Waterfront Access program ensures that all of North Carolina’s residents and visitors have convenient and safe opportunities to access our stunning beaches and public trust waters,” DCM Director Tancred Miller said in a release.
Division staff will select recipients based on criteria set by the N.C. Coastal Resources Commission. Applicants will be notified by May 10 if their proposal is selected. The final application will be due in July.
Funding for the grant program comes from the North Carolina General Assembly through the state’s Parks and Recreation Trust Fund.
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