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Boat Access Area Development Program

The Boat Access Area Development Grant Program is currently accepting applications Until May 17, 2024.  You can access the online application through amplifund here:

https://il.amplifund.com/Public/Opportunities/Details/aac270df-39bc-4ac5-b541-c88b71ddf66b

Please review the program manual carefully before applying.  Send any questions to DNR.Grants@Illinois.gov.

The Boat Access Area Development (BAAD) Program provides financial assistance to local government agencies for the acquisition, construction, and expansion/rehabilitation, including necessary A/E services, of public boat and canoe access areas on Illinois' lakes and rivers.  Eligible sites are limited to navigable public bodies of water.  The program provides up to 100% of approved project construction costs and 90% of approved land acquisition costs. Grant awards are limited to a $200,000 maximum for motorized launch sites and $80,000 maximum for non-motorized launch sites.

Applications for grant assistance must be received by IDNR between the dates posted on the Notice of Funding Opportunity each fiscal year in which the program is active. Grant awards are typically announced the following spring. Revenue for this state funded program is derived from marine motor fuel tax and boat registration fees.

Examples of eligible project activities include:

Water frontage land acquisition for public access areas; and

New construction or renovation of

  • Boat/canoe launching ramps and courtesy docks;
  • Restrooms and security lighting;
  • Parking areas, access roads and walkways; and
  • Other boating related facilities deemed appropriate by IDNR.

Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)

Documents

Complete and submit your Boat Access Area Grant Application using the new manual and GATA forms provided below:

Documentation for Prior Years

IMPORTANT: ALL applicants must be registered with GATA prior to the application deadline date. For more information on this process, please look here.

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