Enhance the management of a heritage area by supporting conservation efforts and engaging the local community

The National Park Service (NPS) National Office awarded a $1,000,000 Cooperative Agreement to the Baltimore Heritage Area Association Inc. (doing business as Baltimore National Heritage Area) under the Heritage Partnership Program (CFDA 15.939) effective August 1, 2025, with a completion date of September 30, 2027. This award supports comprehensive heritage area management activities designed to enhance conservation efforts and foster community engagement within the Baltimore National Heritage Area. Key deliverables include youth-focused outdoor recreation and arts programming such as "Kids on Trails" and "Bikes on Trails," grant management services for community-based projects, interpretive signage development and maintenance along historic trails including the Star Spangled Banner National Historic Trail, and public outreach initiatives including lectures and educational programming.

The cooperative agreement funding enables the awardee to provide marketing and administrative support for heritage area operations while building collaborative partnerships among local nonprofits, government entities, and community stakeholders. Expected outcomes include increased community participation in preservation efforts, greater public awareness of the region's cultural heritage, and improved coordination among local partners. The program benefits young participants, local organizations, community members, and visitors through educational and cultural opportunities that promote understanding and appreciation of Baltimore's historical and natural resources.

Activities include programs that introduce youth to outdoor experiences and the arts, managing grants for community-focused projects, and conducting outreach initiatives, such as lectures and the development of signage for navigation. The award will also provide assistance with marketing and administrative tasks for the heritage area. Expected outcomes include greater community participation in preservation efforts, increased awareness of the region s cultural heritage, and improved collaboration among various local partners. Beneficiaries will include young participants, local organizations, community members, and visitors, all of whom will have access to educational and cultural opportunities that encourage a better understanding and appreciation of the area s history and natural environment.