The application process for the Albany County Municipal Park Improvement Initiative is multi-step.

Proposal Submission: The Albany County Legislature solicits applications from eligible project sponsors. Applications must include: 

• An executive summary detailing the project;
• A breakdown of anticipated project expenses;
• A benefits statement as to how the project will add public value, including projected impact;
• An overview highlighting the need for assistance and any deficits that exist; 
• Appendices that consist of any renderings, drawings, project plans, or construction documents; and
•  A signed copy of the Parks and Playgrounds Grant Acknowledgement Form [click/tap to download].

Review and Scoring: Each proposal is reviewed and scored by staff of the Albany County Legislature, Albany County Parks and Recreation, and the Albany County Executive’s Office.

Funding Recommendations: Based on the reviews of the designated graders, the Albany County Legislature will make recommendations on which projects should be funded. There is no guarantee that applications received by the Albany County Legislature will ultimately be awarded funding.

Project sponsors must be an incorporated city, town, or village within Albany County.

Although private individuals, not-for-profit organizations, for-profit corporations, planning and engineering firms and other non-public entities are not eligible, they are strongly encouraged to partner with eligible public entities to plan and submit proposals to boost the impact of county grant funds.

The purpose of the Albany County Municipal Park Improvement Initiative is to either upgrade current parks and playgrounds, or develop new recreational facilities throughout the County, to help improve the lives of the residents and visitors of the County of Albany.

The criteria include:

• Must be located within an incorporated city, town, or village within Albany County;
• Must focus on physical, permanent structures that enhance Parks or Recreation Facilities;
• Can be funded fully by Albany County Park Improvement Initiative or partially;
• Must provide direct impact to county residents; and
• Must be accessible to the general public.

Additional benefits beyond the above may assist a project in standing apart from other projects, but they cannot be used as a replacement for the stated priority.

Additional benefits may include, but are not limited to, projects that:

• Expand public-private partnerships to leverage matching share resources (e.g. money or donated lands, supplies or services);
• Provide economic benefits to the local community (e.g. short or long-term jobs or stimulation to local business near the park);
• Use of sustainable design/materials;
• Include site features that consider the needs of all demographics, and/or;
• Involve the redevelopment of a blighted or distressed property.

Organizations that applied and were awarded funding in the first round may only be eligible for additional funding if it is intended for new projects. However, preference will be given to new applicants.

What types of organizations can apply for grants?

Private individuals, non-profit organizations, and community-based organizations are eligible to apply.

What types of projects are eligible for Albany County Legislative Grant funding?

Refer to guidelines in the memo and online for the scope of projects eligible for funding in this grant cycle.

Are there any restrictions on how grant funds can be spent?

Yes. Grant funds may not be used to offset salary increases, new personnel expenses, or for the purchase of standard office supplies that are not directly tied to the execution of the proposed program.

Can grant funds be used for operational expenses, such as salaries or office supplies?

No. Grant funds may not be used to offset operational expenses which includes salaries, new personnel costs or office supplies that do not directly support the implementation of the proposed program you are seeking funds for.

Can the funds be used for capital improvements or construction projects?

Unless otherwise specified in the guidelines, grant funds cannot be used for capital improvements or construction projects.

Can grant funds be used for fundraising events or promotional materials?

Yes. Funds may be used to promote new or existing programs related to this grant only.

What is the deadline for submitting this grant application?

The application deadline is indicated in the guidelines (memo/online).

Can out-of-County organizations apply for funding?

Yes, out-of-County organizations are eligible to apply, provided that the program is designed to benefit residents of Albany County and operates within its borders.

Can I apply for multiple grants in a single year?

Yes. However, preference is given to first-time applicants.

What documentation do I need to submit with my grant application?

Your application must include a proposal containing: An executive summary of the program;

A detailed breakdown of anticipated expenses; Benefits statement; and A description of the need for assistance and how the program will benefit the community at large.

Do I need to provide a detailed budget for my project?

Yes. A detailed budget breakdown of anticipated expenses is required to be considered for funding.

How will I know if my grant application has been approved?

You will be notified via email.

What are the next steps after receiving the award notification email?

Awardees will receive a contract to sign and return, which will require the recipients to sign and submit:

1. Two (2) notarized copies of the contract;
2. Claim form; and
3. Certificate of Insurance.

Do I need to submit progress reports or final reports on the project’s outcomes?

Any receipts related to the expenditure of grant funds must be sent to Liam McDonald, Operations Coordinator (Liam.McDonald@albanycountyny.gov) six months after the award of funds and then again six months after that.

Will there be an opportunity to amend the grant proposal if project circumstances change?

Amendments may be considered depending on the circumstances. Please contact Liam McDonald, Operations Coordinator Liam.McDonald@albanycountyny.gov for further guidance.

What happens if my project doesn’t meet the eligibility requirement?

Please email Liam McDonald, Operations Coordinator (Liam.McDonald@AlbanyCountyNY.gov) with your contact information to receive notifications for future grants that may better align with your project.

How does Albany County determine which projects receive funding?

Preference is given to grant proposals that

1. clearly define the project scope,
2. provide a breakdown of anticipated expenses,
3. provide a benefits statement,
4. overview highlighting the need for assistance and
5. how this program will benefit the community at large.

When will the grant funds be distributed, and how is payment handled?

Recipients will be notified by Liam McDonald, Operations Coordinator (Liam.McDonald@AlbanyCountyNY.gov) once all contracts are processed and funds are ready for distribution.

Is there a limit to the amount of grant funding I can request?

Grant funding requests are limited to the amount specified in the guidelines found on this webpage.

What happens if I miss the grant application deadline?

Unfortunately, grant applications received after the deadline will not be considered in this cycle. To receive future grant notifications, send your contact info to: Liam McDonald, Operations Coordinator (Liam.McDonald@AlbanyCountyNY.gov)

Who is the point of contact if I have any additional questions that are not covered on this FAQ?

Please contact Liam McDonald, Operations Coordinator (Liam.McDonald@AlbanyCountyNY.gov) for any further inquiries.