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Chapter 6: Implementation 82 <br />IM <br />P <br />L <br />E <br />M <br />E <br />N <br />T <br />A <br />T <br />I <br />O <br />N <br />Grants <br />Grants are a way to make Elk River’s dollars go further. The city has been successful <br />in securing grant funding. Below is a sample of some grant opportunities that <br />may be available along with websites to visit for more information. <br />Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) <br />The DNR is one of the most comprehensive resources when it comes to state <br />funding for park and trail programs. They offer a variety of grant programs and <br />technical assistance. Current programs provide assistance for cross country skiing <br />trails, mountain biking trails, horseback riding trails, and recreational trails. Some <br />programs also offer assistance for the development of parks or for trail amenities <br />such as restrooms, lighting, benches, etc. Each of the Minnesota DNR grant <br />programs is unique. The DNR should be consulted before pursuing a grant to <br />clarify funding availability and qualifications. <br />Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) <br />Many trail or bikeway improvement projects funded through MnDOT also <br />utilize a portion of federal dollars. Federal highway funding reauthorization <br />may include funding for trail or sidewalk improvement projects under programs <br />such as Safe Routes to School or the Regional Solicitation managed by the <br />Metropolitan Council Transportation Advisory Board. <br />Clean Water, Land, & Legacy Amendment <br />In 2008, Minnesota voters approved the Clean Water, Land and Legacy <br />Amendment to the Minnesota State Constitution which increased the general <br />sales and use tax rate by three-eighths of one percent (0.375%) and dedicated the <br />proceeds for the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund, the Outdoor Heritage Fund, <br />Clean Water Fund, and Parks and Trails Fund. Elk River Conservation Area was <br />obtained through the Outdoor Heritage Fund. <br />Foundations & Non-Profits <br />Some foundations and non-profits fulfill their missions by supporting local <br />projects such as park, trail, and bikeway improvements. The Minnesota Council <br />of Foundations is a great starting point for identifying foundations.