The Metropolitan Council has just doled out a cool $2 million in parks equity grants across the seven-county metro region, according to their recent announcement. This hefty sum will be split amongst 22 projects that aim to give folks from every walk of life the chance to enjoy the sprawling regional parks and trails system. Accessibility upgrades for those with disabilities, cultural studies, and even water safety programs are on the docket with this fresh infusion of cash.
"We want every resident and visitor to this region to fully be able to enjoy the fantastic recreational opportunities the regional park system offers," Susan Vento, vice chair of the Met Council’s Community Development Committee, expressed in a statement obtained by the Metropolitan Council's news release. The equity grant program was hatched under the council's Thrive MSP 2040 initiative and first saw the light of day in a 2019 pilot before the first full round of grants was doled out in 2021. Some of those projects have reached completion while others are still in the works.
A technical review committee, which includes members from the Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission, the Met Council’s Community Development Committee, and regional park agency staffers, had a gander at the 22 applications. They managed to fully fund 20 projects and got the eligible parts of the other two over the finish line. "All of the projects had merit and were worth funding," said Jessica Lee, planer for the Met Council’s parks unit.
According to the Met Council's news release, more than half of the projects are aimed at broadening programming across various agencies, rather than zeroing in on a solitary park or trail. In a turn that surely pleases the council, two park agencies have already teamed up to brainstorm a project. Looking ahead, the Met Council hopes to see more of this partnership spirit. They aim to eventually incentivize agencies to work together during the next grant cycle. Schools and other organizations are also on the list of encouraged partners.
The Minnesota Legislature, way back when, entrusted the Metropolitan Council with planning and funding the regional parks system that kicked off half a century ago. Today, it boasts 56 regional parks and reserves, over 400 miles of trails that all link up, and 8 special recreation features, all managed by 10 different park agencies. Whether you're up for recreation, a workout, a gathering, or some alone time amidst the greenery, this park's system's got you covered while also watching out for the wildlife habitats in there.
