American Rescue Plan
In March 2021, the ARP was signed to provide additional relief for individuals and businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic. The Plan also includes funding for state, local and tribal governments as well as education—known as the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER). All funds must be incurred and obligated by Dec. 31, 2024. Funds must be expended, and work completed by Dec. 31, 2026.
See below for ideas on how park and school projects might be eligible:
Parks-Related Eligibility
- Services designed to build stronger neighborhoods and communities and to address health disparities and the social determinants of health.
- Investments in parks, public plazas, and other public outdoor recreation spaces.
- Enhancements to outdoor spaces for COVID-19 mitigation or to improve the built environment of the neighborhood.
- Maintenance to address the increased use of parks during the pandemic, which may have resulted in damage.
- For all the above, think playground equipment, outdoor fitness equipment, shade structures, splash pads or general maintenance.
Schools-Related Eligibility
- Student mental health.
- Repairing and improving school facilities to reduce risk of virus transmission and exposure to environmental health hazards – Outdoor classrooms + shade.
- Addressing the needs of children from low-income families, children with disabilities, English learners, racial and ethnic minorities, students experiencing homelessness, and foster care youth – Inclusive playgrounds.
- Addressing learning loss – STEM- and reading-related playground designs.
A playground is not just a playground anymore.
What’s Next?
Have you checked to see if ARP/ESSER funding applies to your upcoming projects? Does your city/county or school already have an ARP/ESSER plan? If you don’t know, inquire with the appropriate person within your city/county or school. There could be additional funding available.
Contact us, your local sales rep for Landscape Structures, Skyways, Aquatix and Dumor. Our team is ready to consult with you on your next project!
