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Instructions: The deadline to submit a MassTrails application is 11:59 pm on Monday, February 2, 2026, no exceptions. All applications must be submitted through this portal.  No paper or emailed applications will be accepted. There is no log in ID or password required. The application can be saved while working on it. Click “Save and Continue” and a link to that application will be provided which must be copied and saved in order to return to the application. You will be prompted to enter an email and the link will be emailed to you for future reference. Please note that any forms which have been uploaded in Section VII of the application will not be saved if leaving the site before submitting the application. The forms must be uploaded again upon re-entering the site and submitting the application. Failure to enter information in any of the required fields or to submit required attachments may result in the disqualification of the application.

Section I: Applicant Information

1.2 Contact Name(Required)
1.5 Mailing Address(Required)
1.6 Organization Type:(Required)

1.7 Has this entity received state trail grant funding in previous years (i..e: MassTrails, Recreational Trails Program Grants)?(Required)

Section II: Project Information

Please limit the Project Title to a maximum of 5 words.
Provide a brief description of the proposed project in 3-4 sentences. This description will be used to describe the project in abbreviated form for various purposes including approvals, press, and announcements going forward.
See "MassTrails Budget and Timeline Spreadsheet" and attach at the end of this application. The spreadsheet can be accessed on the MassTrails Grants website.
Up to 80% of Total Project Value.
Minimum of 20% of Total Project Value.
2.8 What is the primary activity of the project? Check one.(Required)

2.9 What is the designed use of this trail? Check one.(Required)
For further guidance, see definition of “designed use” and definitions of the above listed trail types in the MassTrails Grant Guidelines documents. Note that if this is a project development or design/engineering/permitting project, indicate the anticipated designed use of the trail that is being planned. And, if this is an equipment purchase only, indicate the designed use of the trail that the equipment will serve.

2.10 What user group will this trail allow? Check all that apply.(Required)
Note that if this is a project development or design/engineering/permitting project, indicate the user groups anticipated to utilize the trail. And, if this is an equipment purchase only, indicate all user groups anticipated to benefit from the trail.
Provide information based on how it supports or expands the diverse network of trails, trail systems, and trail experiences used and enjoyed by Massachusetts residents and visitors.
Describe the specific project site and limits, starting/terminus points, and destinations.
Carefully provide accurate information on all landowners and CR holders on land where the project will take place. Documentation of permissions for project work by all required entities is required in Section 7.3 of this application, using the MassTrails Grants Landowner Permission Forms uploaded as an attachment. For more information on required permissions, see the MassTrails Grant Guidelines.
2.14 Has landowner permission been obtained using the MassTrails Grant – Private/Public Landowner Permission Form and/or has permission been obtained for work on land where a Conservation Restriction is held?(Required)
If the project involves work on land with a Conservation Restriction, the MassTrails Grants – Conservation Restriction Work Authorization Form or letter from CR holder is required in addition to Land Ownership Permission Forms. For more information on Land Ownership Forms, see the MassTrails Grant Guidelines.
2.15 Does this project comply with state and federal guidelines for accessibility?(Required)
All MassTrails projects must comply with state and federal guidelines for accessibility. See the MassTrails Grant Guidelines and the Trail Accessibility Guidelines Checklist for assessing a project's regulatory requirements regarding accessibility.
If Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) or State Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP) funding is anticipated for the project, a PNF must be submitted to MassDOT to qualify for MassTrails funding.

Section III: Narrative

Mass Trails seeks strong projects that:

Plan, Design or Construct off-road, shared use path, and recreational trail connections between where Massachusetts residents live, learn, work, shop, and recreate (Connect)

  • MassTrails prioritizes building out the longer distance shared use pathways and recreational trails across the state
  • MassTrails prioritizes filling in critical gaps in existing networks, or overcoming current barriers to connectivity
  • MassTrails considers the number of people that will potentially access a given project

Serve the diversity of Massachusetts residents, especially (Equitable)

  • Minority and low-income populations (Environmental Justice Communities)
  • Underserved or vulnerable populations including persons with disabilities
  • Youth

Effectively address accessibility guidelines (Accessible)

  • Follow accessible design standards to maximize accessibility while recognizing and protecting the unique characteristics of the natural setting
  • Follow Universal Design principles to meet the needs of all trail users
  • Have a plan in place for ongoing maintenance to ensure continued accessibility

Allow for efficient use of grant funds (Efficient)

  • Have a detailed and reasonable budget
  • Have a strong local match (financial or other)
  • Have funding in place or a plan for funding subsequent required phases

Are ready for the proposed phase (Ready)

  • Previous planning work supports proposed phase
  • Appropriate community input and outreach has been completed
  • Environmental, permitting and right-of-way challenges have been identified and alternatives and solutions have been fully explored.  
  • Climate resiliency has been considered and incorporated.
  • Have a plan in place for ongoing required maintenance once the project is complete

Effectively incorporate safety (Safe)

Create diverse, high-quality recreational experiences and connect users to the natural and cultural wealth of Massachusetts (Experiential)

Describe in detail the characteristics of the proposed trail (including length, width, surface material, grades / terrain, structures, signage, and amenities.)
Be as specific as possible about the steps the grant project will take and the results you hope to achieve. Include the specific trail location(s), starting and ending points, and trail distances. Describe the trail surface material, and any proposed structures involved. All tasks must coincide with the project's budget.
Describe how the proposed project connects directly to existing trails and trail networks. Describe how it will connect directly to important community anchors. If this project creates an off-road trail connection under, over, or around a significant barrier (e.g., major roadway) describe and highlight that. In supporting materials, include a map that shows these specific direct connections to support your narrative.
Massachusetts Environmental Justice Population Mapper can be accessed here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/environmental-justice-populations-in-massachusetts . See Grant Guidelines for information and resources on Environmental Justice Communities. "Underserved" can encompass population groups such as low income, minority, elderly, children, limited English proficiency, geographically isolated communities (e.g., rural) or persons with disabilities.
For example, how has the project solicited feedback and comments from non-English speaking, low-income populations, and/or populations of color and integrated those into project design and implementation?
Provide a brief overview of how the project will facilitate new or improved access for populations with limited mobility, including but not limited to elderly, visually impaired and wheelchair users. *Note that all projects must comply with state and federal trail accessibility guidelines according to the designed use of the trail (see the Grant Guidelines for accessibility information and resources).
What planning / engineering steps have already been accomplished? What permits are anticipated, which ones are already in place? How have climate resiliency and weather impacts been considered and incorporated into this project? Is there a plan in place for ongoing maintenance?
How was the public involved in the project's selection and planning and what is the public's role going forward? What votes are required and have those taken place and passed? If no public outreach has taken place, explain why. Describe any existing or anticipated opposition to the project and how that is being addressed.
All projects must meet minimum safety requirements for the intended use. This question only applies to projects which are specifically applying for funds to address an existing or potential safety issue.
For example, will the project or components of it involve youth crews, scouting groups, technical and/or trade school students, or other youth-focused groups in any stage of planning, construction, or continued maintenance? In what ways, if any, have youth been engaged during community outreach?

Section IV: Cultural and Natural Resources Protection

Any project that receives state or federal funding must comply with various laws and regulations to protect natural and cultural resources including, but not necessarily limited to:

  • Historic Resources
  • Below-Ground Archaeology 
  • Wetlands and Waterways
  • Rare and Endangered Species
  • Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act

The below questions will assist us in evaluating your project and helping us guide you through the natural resources and cultural permitting processes. 

4.1 To the best of your knowledge, is your project near any historic or archaeological resources?(Required)
4.2: Will your project involve even minimal digging or excavation, including stump removal?(Required)
4.4: Will your project require Wetland Protection Act permitting (i.e. will any part occur within 100 feet of a wetland or 200 feet of a perennial stream?)(Required)
4.5: Will the project occur within Estimated Habitats of Rare Wildlife and/or Priority Habitats of Rare Species, according to MA Division of Fisheries and Wildlife’s Natural Heritage Atlas?(Required)

Available here (opens in new tab) by clicking on the “Regulated Areas” drop down menu, selecting “Natural Heritage Data”, selecting both NHESP Estimated Habitats of Rare Wildlife and NHESP Priority Habitats of Rare Species

Section V: Trail Accessibility Guidelines Checklist

This portion of the application is to confirm compliance with the Forest Service Trail Accessibility Guidelines (FSTAG). Projects on trails designated for Hiker/Pedestrian use where the activity is construction or alteration must comply to FSTAG technical requirements to the fullest extent possible. If the project falls under this category, please read FSTAG carefully (opens in new tab) before continuing to this section.

Part 1: Determination of Applicability

5.1 Designed Use of Trail:(Required)

5.2: Does this project include construction activities?(Required)
Construction activities include alterations, repairs, bridges, path re-surfacing, among others. If you have any questions regarding applicable construction activities, please contact MassTrails Staff.

Part 2: Trail Accessibility Guidelines Compliance

If you select “HIKER/PEDESTRAIN” in question 5.1 AND check “YES” on question 5.2, you will be prompted to fill out questions on part 2 of this guide.

 

DO NOT PROCEED to Part 2 or Part 3 of this form if:

 

  • The project’s Designed Use is a Shared-Use Path. All Shared-Use Path projects MUST be built as accessible. DO NOT submit a MassTrails application if the trail will not be accessible.
  • The project’s Designed Use is Hiker/Pedestrian AND project activities include Project Development, Design/Engineering/Permitting, or Maintenance.
  • The project’s Designed Use is Off-Road Motorized.
  • *If your project falls in the “Other” category, contact the MassTrails Administrator to determine if the next section of this form needs to be completed.

 

All MassTrails Grant Projects involving Construction or Alteration of a trail with a designed use for Hiker/Pedestrians MUST follow the Forest Service Trail Accessibility Guidelines (FSTAG). If the project falls under this category, please read FSTAG carefully (opens in new tab) before proceeding with the next section of this form

5.4 Does the trail connect directly to a trailhead or trail that complies with accessibility guidelines without any exceptions?(Required)
5.5 Is the trail tread firm and stable?(Required)
See FSTAG Definitions, Section 7.3
5.6: Is the full trail width at least 36 inches?(Required)
See Section 7.4.2 of FSTAG
5.7: Are there tread obstacles on the trail greater than 2 inches in height?(Required)
See Section 7.4.6 of FSTAG
5.8: Does the trail slope exceed 5% for any segment of the trail?(Required)
See Section 7.4.3 of FSTAG: The majority of the trail should be at a 5% slope or less. Trail segments with a slope between 5-8.33% must be no longer than 200 ft without a resting interval provided. Trail segments with a slope of 8.33-10% must be no longer than 30 ft without providing resting intervals. Segments with a slope of 10-12% must be no longer than 10 feet without providing resting intervals. Resting intervals must be a minimum of 60 inches long by 36 inches wide with a slope of no more than 5%.
5.8.1: Does trail slope exceed 12% for any segment of the trail?(Required)
5.8.2: Are there segments of trail longer than 10 ft that are between 10 and 12% slope?(Required)
5.8.3: Are there segments of trail longer than 30 ft that are between 8.33 and 10% slope?(Required)
5.8.4: Are there segments of trail longer than 200 ft that are between 5 and 8.33% slope?(Required)
5.9: Is the trail tread width less than 60 inches?(Required)
See Section 7.4.5 of FSTAG: If tread width is less than 60 inches, passing spaces of 60 inches by 60 inches, with a slope of 5% or less and cross slope of 5% or less, shall be provided at no more than 1,000 foot intervals.
5.10: Are there openings in the trail tread, resting, or passing areas of the trail?(Required)
See Section 7.4.7 of FSTAG: Openings in surfaces (boardwalk, bridges, etc.) shall be small enough to prevent passage of a 1/2 inch diameter sphere. Elongated openings should be placed perpendicular to the dominant direction of travel.
5.10.1: If yes, are openings smaller than 1/2 inch?(Required)
5.10.2: If yes, are openings placed perpendicular to the direction of travel?(Required)

Part 3: Accessibility Guidelines Exceptions

Conditions for Exception: See Section 7.1 of FSTAG.
Where one or more of the following conditions exists on a trail, an “exception” for that specific requirement can be used where that condition exists. All appropriate design options should be considered before applying the exception. You will be asked to describe the conditions in 5.21.

5.18 Where one or more of the following conditions exists on a trail, an “exception” for that specific requirement can be used where that condition exists. All appropriate design options should be considered before applying the exception. Check all that occur at least once within the project:
Conditions for Exception: See Section 7.1 of FSTAG.
5.19 After assessing projects to determine conditions for exception, one of two general exceptions may be applied. These exceptions are determined based on five Limiting Factors for Determination of Impracticability. Check all Limiting Factors for Determination of Impracticability that apply to this project:
General Exceptions: See Section 7.2 of FSTAG
5.20 If NO Limiting Factors apply, but one or more Conditions for Exception apply, check General Exception 1. If one or more Limiting Factors apply, choose General Exception 2. If no Conditions for Exception or Limiting Factors apply, no General Exception may be used. The project must fully adhere to the technical guidelines of FSTAG.
Where General Exception 2 permits exemption of an entire trail from following accessibility guidelines, it is important to construct portions of the trail to meet the trail accessibility guidelines where feasible. Consider doing so especially if a prominent feature (such as a scenic view, waterfall, or other feature that would be of interest to visitors) is located between the trail terminus and the first extreme environmental barrier and there are few or no significant conditions requiring exceptions on that portion of the trail.

Section VI: Equipment Worksheet (Required for Equipment Purchases Only)

Equipment purchases are permitted under the MassTrails grant program. This can include equipment necessary for trail construction and maintenance activities, such as mowers, chainsaws, snow grooming machines and all-terrain vehicles (for hauling people and materials). Equipment is defined as tangible personal property having a useful life of at least five years and a per-unit acquisition cost of $5,000 or greater. Equipment must be purchased in full with the title held by the Grantee and must be used for the proper authorized use as stated in the project proposal.

Three bids must be solicited and documented for all equipment purchases with a value of $5,000 or more, in order to be reimbursed. It is advised to do so at the time of application to determine the appropriate grant request amount, however, this is not required with the application.

Please answer each question listed below for ALL proposals to purchase equipment with a value of $5,000 or more. This is REQUIRED in order to be considered for a grant award.

6.1 Have three quotes been obtained for this particular piece of equipment?
Upload quotes in Section 7

Section VII: Required Documents and Supporting Materials

In this section, when you are ready to submit your application, you will upload:

  • MassTrails Budget and Timeline Spreadsheet
  • Map(s) of Project Location and Extent (Design documents do not qualify as maps)
  • Project Specifications, Plans, Drawings, Photos (as a single PDF)
  • Landowner Permission Forms and Conservation Restriction Work Authorization Form (as a single PDF)
  • Additional Project Information (Completed Permits, Conservation Restriction/Easement/Right of Way, Bids/Quotes, Town Votes, Letters of Support)
Template Spreadsheet can be downloaded at the MassTrails Grants website (https://www.mass.gov/guides/masstrails-grants)
Drop files here or
Max. file size: 50 MB.
    Submit at minimum two (2) project maps – a locus map, and another map of the project extents (as detailed as possible). Submit additional maps as needed using various imagery and data to depict the project as accurately as possible, especially if multiple non-contiguous locations are involved in the project scope. We also encourage you to submit a single zipped GIS file of the project extent under Additional Project Information below, though this is not required. Locus map guidance: use a quadrangle from the U.S. Geological Survey. Download U.S.G.S. maps at https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/topoview/viewer/#15/42.1649/-72.0961. Boundaries of the project area should be specific. Maps should accurately show where on-the-ground work will occur. Do not circle a large general area to show where the project will occur.
    Drop files here or
    Max. file size: 50 MB.
      Drop files here or
      Max. file size: 50 MB.
        Submit a single PDF file of photos showing the typical trail / location conditions. Be sure to clearly label each picture and provide a description of its context. Also include any plans, drawings, and other specification documents of the proposed structures to be built (bridges, boardwalks, kiosks, signage, platforms, trail drainage structures, culverts, etc.)
        Drop files here or
        Max. file size: 50 MB.
          Submit a file with any additional project information that reviewers may need in order to make informed determinations.
          Drop files here or
          Max. file size: 50 MB.
            Submit a file with any additional project information that reviewers may need in order to make informed determinations.
            Drop files here or
            Max. file size: 50 MB.
              Submit a file with any additional project information that reviewers may need in order to make informed determinations.
              Drop files here or
              Max. file size: 50 MB.