DWR Boating Access Grants to Localities

Monday, April 27, 2026/Categories: News Board

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) is pleased to announce the availability of boating access grants for shovel-ready power boating access projects.  Applications are currently being accepted.  Virginia localities (counties, cities, and towns) are eligible to receive grants. The purpose of the grants is to assist localities in providing public opportunities for power boat access through new facilities development and/or renovations and improvements to existing public boating access facilities.  For more details, go to Grants to Localities

This grant is for shovel ready construction and renovation projects in the following categories:

Small Power Boating Access - 75% up to a maximum $50,000 reimbursement

• Sites that provide for trailered boats and at least 5 parking spaces

Medium Power Boating Access - 75% up to a maximum $150,000 reimbursement

• Sites that provide for trailered boats with a hardened ramp and at least 10 parking spaces

Large Power Boating Access - 75% up to a maximum $300,000 reimbursement

• Sites that provide for trailered boats with a hardened ramp and at least 25 parking spaces

 Recreational boating is a popular activity and there are approximately 220,000 registered boats in Virginia resulting in an annual economic impact of over $4 billion dollars.  This grant program provides up to 75% of the approved project costs to construct or renovate boating access facilities for powerboat access.  Applications are due no later than May 21, 2026. Funds will be provided on a reimbursement basis, and projects must be completed by June 30, 2027.

 DWR Contact: John Kirk, john.kirk@dwr.virginia.gov.