The Conservancy Public Benefit Improvement Grants, part of the Preservation Partnership Grant Program – Round 37, provides funding to nonprofit land conservation and preservation organizations for projects that enhance public access to and use of open spaces, trails, and natural areas. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations primarily focused on conservation, preservation, and stewardship of open space, parklands, or natural areas. These organizations must be registered with the Pennsylvania Department of State’s Bureau of Charitable Organizations and have been in operation for at least five consecutive years. Additionally, they must either own or hold a legal interest in the land where improvements will take place, except for projects on land preserved through the County Agricultural Land Preservation Program.

Eligible projects under this grant include the construction of publicly accessible trails and related amenities, such as trailheads, parking areas, and signage. Other eligible improvements include facilities that enhance trail accessibility, such as restrooms and water fountains, provided they receive pre-approval from the Department of Parks and Preservation. The grant also supports rehabilitation or restoration of existing trails, including erosion control and repairs due to flooding or overuse. Small-scale, nature-based projects that improve water quality or habitat restoration, such as riparian buffer plantings, native plantings, and rain gardens, are also eligible.

The program does not fund projects inconsistent with county policies, those that began before grant approval (unless a Waiver for Retroactivity has been granted), routine maintenance or enforcement, trails not open to the public, club-restricted trails, feasibility studies, or educational brochures. To qualify, trail projects must be publicly accessible on a scheduled basis, and the land must be permanently designated for public use before any funds are released.

The county may fund up to 50% of eligible project costs, with a maximum grant award of $50,000. Eligible expenses include material purchases, equipment rentals, and contracted construction work. Donated materials, equipment, and labor (valued at $10 per hour for unskilled volunteer labor) may be counted toward the applicant’s required match. However, administrative costs, planning and engineering services, and any expenses incurred before the grant award without an approved waiver are ineligible.

Each nonprofit may submit one grant application per round and maintain a maximum of two open projects at any given time. Grants are awarded at the discretion of the Chester County Commissioners. Funding is provided on a reimbursement basis, with grantees allowed to submit up to two reimbursement requests—one partial and one final. To be eligible for reimbursement, all project costs must be properly documented, acquired following legal procedures, and submitted within 60 days of the contract termination date.

The standard contract period for funded projects is 24 months. Public acknowledgment of county funding is required for trail projects through a permanent sign or plaque at the site, designed to be consistent with existing signage. While signage is encouraged for water quality improvement projects, it is not mandatory.