The Salem Park Improvement Fund (SPIF) provides funding opportunities for Salem’s neighborhood associations to make local park improvements. Applications must be submitted by one of the 18 neighborhood associations recognized by the City of Salem.

Since 2006, Salem City Council has budgeted approximately $60,000 in General Fund money toward this program to be used as matching funds. If you are interested in making an improvement to your local park, please contact your neighborhood association.

SPIF Grant Cycle

The grant cycle begins in July and covers a two year period to allow the neighborhood association time to raise their match funds. Neighborhood Associations submit a project letter of intent that is reviewed by city staff to check for feasibility, ensuring the project requests fall within the requirements of the current City of Salem Comprehensive Park System Master Plan, as well as providing a project cost estimate. 

Members of the Salem Parks and Recreation Board along with members of Parks Planning and Operations staff review the applications to make the final selection of approved projects.

Notable Dates

• Submit Letter of Intent by October 31.
• Neighborhood Associations submit formal application by January 31.

More information about Salem Neighborhood Associations