The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) Program, administered by the National Park Service (NPS), is a competitive grant initiative under the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Act. The program aims to enhance parks, recreational spaces, and conservation areas in urban underserved communities, complementing the LWCF formula grants for states and territories. ORLP grants support land acquisition, new development, and renovations of outdoor recreation facilities in eligible urban areas with populations of 25,000 or more, focusing on communities with limited access to outdoor recreation opportunities. To qualify, projects must align with a Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), ensuring consistency with local priorities.

Eligible applicants include State Lead Agencies designated to administer LWCF funds, which can apply directly or on behalf of eligible subrecipients such as local governments, federally recognized Tribes, Alaska Native Corporations, Alaska Native Organizations, and Native Hawaiian Communities. Subcontractors under state governments or their subrecipients may conduct the work. Applicants must provide a minimum 50% non-Federal cost share for proposed projects, which can include cash, land donations, in-kind services, or volunteer contributions.

The program emphasizes meaningful collaboration with underserved communities to ensure equitable and community-driven outcomes. Applicants are required to document the community's need and demonstrate engagement through public meetings, surveys, or workshops. Additionally, projects must show partnerships with public, private, or nonprofit organizations and incorporate sustainable environmental solutions to promote resilience against natural disasters, protect ecosystems, and foster community health.

Applications are evaluated through a comprehensive merit review process based on five weighted criteria: improving outdoor recreation access in underserved urban communities, community collaboration and engagement, leveraging partnerships, advancing environmental and ecological resilience, and enhancing the community’s sense of place. Scores are assigned based on the project's demonstrated alignment with these goals.

Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov, with annual deadlines of June 1 and November 1 each year through 2029. Selected projects are expected to submit a full award package within one year of selection for final review and funding approval. Projects typically require one to three years to complete. Federal compliance with environmental and historical preservation laws, as well as financial reporting, will be required throughout the project’s duration. For additional assistance, applicants can contact ORLP program staff via email.