Running Track Grants for High Schools and Recreational Track & Field Facilities
Perhaps the most important part of any track and field sports facility is the running track surface. The quality and condition of the running surface can have a significant impact on both athletes’ performances and their safety. As such, it is important to choose a high-quality surface that will last for many years with minimal maintenance.
However, if you’ve started researching your options for running track surfaces, you may have been surprised by the high cost. A new running track surface is a significant investment, especially if you’re a school or public park district with limited funding.
One way to offset the cost of a new running track surface is to apply for grants. There are various types of grants available, from government grants to private foundation grants. Depending on your needs and goals, you may be able to find a grant that can help cover the cost of your new running track surface.
But before you set out and search for running track surfacing grants, you should know that they are hard to find. There are very few grant and funding programs specifically dedicated to the construction or resurfacing of running tracks. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t grants available for your project.
If you know where to look and the language to use in your grant application, you may be able to find the funding you need to make your running track project a reality. But if you’re new to the process and don’t know where to start, working with a trusted expert can make the process much easier. They can help you understand the costs and benefits of different running track surfaces and find the best grant programs for your needs.
We recommend you to try one of our running track cost calculators to get a clear understanding of the total costs of your project before you start applying for funding.
You can also check out our sports facility grants and funding database if you want to browse through some more opportunities!
Apply for running track grants offered by the government
One place to start your search for running track surfacing grants is with the government. The United States government offers a variety of grant programs that can be used for construction projects, improving communities and public parks, and providing recreational opportunities for children and adults.
Depending on your location and the scope of your project, you may be able to find a government grant that can help cover the cost of your new running track surface. Most government programs don’t explicitly state that they can be used for running tracks, but with a firm understanding of requirements, you may be able to use the grant funds for your project.
If you’re interested in pursuing a government grant for your running track project, there are a few ways to get started. The first is to contact your state or local parks and recreation department. They may have information about grant programs that can be used for running tracks or other park improvements.
The best option for finding the right program for your project is working with a local construction expert. They can help you navigate the complex world of government grants and find the programs that are most likely to fund your project.
Here are some of the possible sources for funding your running track surface:
- Land and Water Conservation Fund
- EPA Brown / Greenfield Program
- Community Facilities Direct Loan & Grant Program
- Community Development Block Grant Program
- Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program
If your new running track surface is part of a larger construction project, government grants can help significantly offset the cost. We’ve put together a full guide on funding sports facility upgrades and renovations that includes information on government grant programs. But even if your project is smaller in scope, you may still be able to find grant programs that can help cover a portion of the cost.
Public-Private partnerships
In addition to government programs, you can turn to the private sector to help finance your project. One way to do this is through public-private partnerships (P3s). With a P3, a private company partners with a government agency to finance, build, and operate a new facility or make improvements to an existing one.
These contracts typically last 25 to 30 years, and are partially funded by the private sector. However, most require a portion of funding to come from public sources.
If you’re interested in pursuing a public-private partnership for your running track project, the first step is to reach out to local construction companies to see if they’re interested in partnering with you. You can also contact your state or local parks and recreation department to see if they have any P3 opportunities available.
USA Track and Field Foundation - Youth Club Grant Application
The USATF Youth Club Grant Program is designed to help give access to track and field facilities and programs to youth athletes. Since its inception, it has become the go-to source for funding and support for youth athletic track and field programs in the United States.
Since 2006, it has awarded over $1 million in funding to youth clubs and organizations, helping them to purchase equipment, improve their facilities, and start new programs.
Unfortunately, at this time (Q4/2022), the USATF Youth Club Grant Program cannot fund track resurfacing projects. However, this is a space to watch as the program may open up for such projects in the future.
In the meantime, you can learn more about the USATF Youth Club Grant Program and how to apply here:
Private financing for running track surfacing
The final stop on your search for financing is private companies that offer loans or other forms of financing for running track surfacing projects.
Secure funding from banks or credit unions
If you have a good relationship with your local bank or credit union, they may be willing to finance your project. This is usually in the form of a business loan, and you’ll need to put up collateral to secure the loan.
The advantage of working with a bank or credit union is that you may be able to get a lower interest rate than you would from a private company. However, the approval process can be lengthy, and you’ll need to have strong credit to qualify.
Look into sports builder financing programs
Some of the leading track and field facility construction companies also offer financing programs for running track surfacing projects, and they may be a good option if you’re looking for a private loan. These companies have extensive experience working with track and field facilities, so they may be more understanding of the unique needs of your project.
Many of these programs offer a full range of financing options, from loans to lines of credit. They can also help you optimize your budget, improve cash flow, and free up credit lines from your bank.
Getting started with funding your running track resurfacing project
Now that you know where to look for funding, it’s time to start putting together your application. The first step is to develop a detailed project budget. This will help you determine how much money you’ll need to raise, and what portion of the cost you can cover with grants or other forms of financing.
Working with an experienced professional can help set you on the path to success. They can help you navigate the funding landscape and identify the best options for your project.
If you’re ready to get started, try our running track surfacing cost calculator. We’ll give you an easy-to-understand cost estimate you can use to begin your planning. Plus, our team will put you in touch with some of the top local companies in your area.