,i #aafth ,,congress #b;d ,session ,h4 ,r4 #hbdf ,,in ,,the ,,house ,,of ,,representatives ,september #ad1 #bjbj,mr4 ,sires introduced the following bill2 which was referred to the ,committee on ,financial ,services1 and in addition to the ,committee on ,natural ,resources1 for a period to be subsequently determined by the ,speaker1 in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned ,a ,,bill ,to authorize the ,secretary of ,housing and ,urban ,development to establish a program enabling communities to better leverage resources to address health1 economic development1 and conservation concerns through needed investments in parks1 recreational areas1 facilities1 and programs1 and for other purposes4 #a4 ,short title and table of contents 7a7 ,short title ,this ,act may be cited as the ,community ,parks ,revitalization ,act4 7b7 ,table of contents ,the table of contents for this ,act is as follows3 ,sec4 #a4 ,short title and table of contents4,title ,i--,community ,parks ,revitalization ,program,sec4 #aja4 ,findings4,sec4 #ajb4 ,purposes4,sec4 #ajc4 ,community parks revitalization program4,sec4 #ajd4 ,requirements for rehabilitation and construction grants4,sec4 #aje4 ,requirements for innovation and recreation program grants4,sec4 #ajf4 ,local commitments to system recovery and maintenance4,sec4 #ajg4 ,matching of ,state amounts1 ,state action incentive4,sec4 #ajh4 ,conversion of recreation property4,sec4 #aji4 ,coordination of program4,sec4 #aaj4 ,reports2 recordkeeping2 audit and examination4,sec4 #aaa4 ,reports to ,congress4,sec4 #aab4 ,definitions4,sec4 #aac4 ,regulations4,sec4 #aad4 ,authorization of appropriations4,title ,,ii--,secured ,loans and ,loan ,guarantees for ,parks and ,recreation ,infrastructure ,development,sec4 #bja4 ,purposes4,sec4 #bjb4 ,authority to provide assistance4,sec4 #bjc4 ,eligible entities4,sec4 #bjd4 ,projects eligible for assistance4,sec4 #bje4 ,activities eligible for assistance4,sec4 #bjf4 ,applications4,sec4 #bjg4 ,determination of eligibility and project selection4,sec4 #bjh4 ,secured loans and loan guarantees4,sec4 #bji4 ,program administration4,sec4 #baj4 ,state and local permits4,sec4 #baa4 ,definitions4,sec4 #bab4 ,regulations4,sec4 #bac4 ,funding4,sec4 #bad4 ,report to ,congress4 ,i ,community ,parks ,revitalization ,program #aja4 ,findings ,the ,congress finds the following3 7#a7 ,currently1 over #hj percent of our ,nation's population lives in urban areas4 7#b7 ,economic competitiveness1 which includes the ability to create jobs1 stimulate growth1 attract businesses1 investment1 tourism1 and a highly skilled workforce1 is closely related to the availability of fully functional park and recreation systems in ,america's metropolitan areas4 7#c7 ,according to the ,american ,society of ,civil ,engineers1 parks1 beaches1 and other recreational facilities contribute #gcj billion per year to the ,u4,s4 economy1 support nearly #f4e million jobs1 and contribute to cleaner air and water and higher property values4 7#d7 ,despite spending on parks at the ,state and local levels1 the acreage of parkland per resident in urban areas is declining due to rapid increases in population and to parks1 such as ,liberty ,state ,park in ,new ,jersey1 being threatened by privatization4 7#e7 ,a lack of access to public parks and recreation areas and facilities1 as well as deteriorating and unsafe play areas1 leads to an increase in physical inactivity1 which in turn contributes to higher rates of obesity4 7#f7 ,according to the ,centers for ,disease ,control and ,prevention1 over the past #be years1 rates of obesity have more than tripled among adolescents ages #ab to #ai and doubled among adults ages #bj to #gd and children ages #f to #aa4 7#g7 ,obesity and related health problems put a strain on our ,nation's economy1 as the annual costs of medical spending and lost productivity from individuals in the ,united ,states being obese and overweight are estimated to be #adg1jjj1jjj1jjj4 7#h7 ,a study by the ,centers for ,disease ,control found that the creation of1 or enhanced access to1 places for physical activity1 such as parks1 led to a #be4f-percent increase in the percentage of people exercising on three or more days a week1 which improves the physical and mental health of our citizens4 7#i7 ,the guidelines of the ,centers for ,disease ,control and ,prevention for ,,covid-#ai lists visiting parks close to home as a safe way to relieve stress1 get some fresh air1 and stay active1 all of which are important for mental and physical health4 7#aj7 ,there are nearly #bc million veterans in the ,united ,states4 ,many have mental and physical disabilities from injuries sustained during their service in ,iraq and ,afghanistan4 7#aa7 ,parks and recreation agencies are providing vital programs for veterans1 with and without disabilities1 and for their families1 that provide physical1 mental1 and social benefits to improve their overall quality of life as they transition to civilian living4 7#ab7 ,according to the ,juvenile ,justice ,bulletin1 without structured1 supervised activities in the after-school hours1 youth are at greater risk of being victims of crime or participating in anti-social behaviors between #b3jj p4m4 and #f3jj p4m4 ,the peak hour for juvenile crime is between #c3jj p4m4 and #d3jj p4m41 the first hour after most students are dismissed from school4 ,urban parks decrease juvenile delinquency by providing quality after-school programs during these critical hours4 7#ac7 ,parks also add to the environmental viability of communities4 ,while cities currently spend tens of billions of dollars on treatment of storm water runoff and air pollution1 studies have shown that parkland saves cities millions of dollars in storm water management and air pollution expenses by capturing precipitation1 reducing runoff1 and absorbing air pollutants4 #ajb4 ,purposes ,the purposes of this title are-- 7#a7 to authorize the ,secretary of ,housing and ,urban ,development to establish a program enabling communities to better leverage resources to address health1 economic development1 and conservation concerns through needed investments in parks1 recreational areas1 facilities1 and programs2 7#b7 to improve and revitalize urban areas through economic development2 7#c7 to prevent and improve chronic disease outcomes1 including cardiovascular disease1 diabetes1 depression1 and obesity2 7#d7 to improve recreational areas and facilities and expand recreation services in urban areas with a high incidence of crime and help expand recreation opportunities for at-risk youth2 7#e7 to promote collaboration between local agencies involved in parks and recreation1 law enforcement1 youth social services1 and juvenile justice system2 7#f7 to ensure accessibility to therapeutic recreation services and to provide recreation opportunities for injured or disabled members of the ,armed ,forces2 and 7#g7 to encourage the use of environmentally responsible components and sustainable landscape features1 and promote cost effective solutions to issues such as storm water management1 water conservation1 and air quality4 #ajc4 ,community parks revitalization program 7a7 ,in general ,the ,secretary of ,housing and ,urban ,development shall carry out a community parks revitalization program under this title under which the ,secretary shall1 from amounts appropriated pursuant to section #aad1 award the following grants on a competitive basis3 7#a7 ,rehabilitation and construction grants ,the ,secretary shall make rehabilitation and construction capital grants in accordance with the criteria established pursuant to section #ajd7;a7 to eligible local governments for the purpose of-- 7,a7 rebuilding1 remodeling1 expanding1 integrating1 or developing existing or building new recreational areas and facilities1 including improvements in park landscapes1 infrastructure1 buildings1 and support facilities2 and 7,b7 the provision of lighting1 emergency phones1 or other capital improvements to improve the security of urban parks1 but not including routine maintenance and upkeep activities4 7#b7 ,innovation and recreation program grants ,the ,secretary shall make innovation and recreation program grants in accordance with the criteria established pursuant to section #aje7;a7 to eligible local governments to cover costs of personnel1 facilities1 equipment1 supplies1 or services designed to demonstrate innovative and cost effective ways to augment park and recreation opportunities1 or support new or existing programs1 that increase access to recreation opportunities for returning veterans and active duty military and their families or provide constructive alternatives for youth at risk for engaging in criminal behavior4 7#c7 ,recovery action program grants ,the ,secretary shall make recovery action program grants to eligible local governments for planning and development of local park and recreation recovery action programs required under section #ajf1 including for resource and needs assessment1 coordination1 citizen involvement and planning1 and program development activities to encourage public definition of goals and develop priorities and strategies for overall recreation system recovery4 7b7 ,eligibility 7#a7 ,in general ,for the purposes of this title1 any local government located within a standard metropolitan statistical area1 as determined in accordance with the most recent decennial ,census1 shall be eligible to apply for and receive grant awards pursuant to subsection 7a74 7#b7 ,partial eligibility waiver 7,a7 ,designation ,the ,secretary may designate local governments not located within standard metropolitan statistical areas1 as determined in accordance with the most recent decennial ,census1 as eligible to receive grant awards pursuant to subsection 7a74 7,b7 ,limitation on amounts ,the aggregate amount of grants made to eligible local governments that receive such status pursuant to subparagraph 7,a7 of this paragraph shall not exceed #ae percent of the total amounts appropriated pursuant to this title for all grants under subsection 7a74 7c7 ,matching requirement 7#a7 ,in general ,the ,secretary shall ensure that each eligible local government that receives a grant pursuant to subsection 7a7 shall supplement1 in accordance with this subsection1 the amount received under such grant with an amount that is not less than #c_/g of such grant amount2 except that1 in the case of grants under subsection 7a77#c71 the ,secretary shall ensure that each eligible local government shall supplement the amount received under such grant with amount that is not less than such grant amount4 7#b7 ,use ,supplemental amounts made available in accordance with paragraph 7#a7 shall be used only for projects and activities for which grant amounts are eligible to be used4 7#c7 ,sources for supplemental funds 7,a7 ,limitation on federal funds ,supplemental funds required by paragraph 7#a7 may not include any amounts made available from a ,federal grant program1 other than-- 7i7 the community development block grant program under title ,i of the ,housing and ,community ,development ,act of #aigd 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #ecja et seq472 7ii7 any ,federal program for general revenue sharing with local governments2 or 7iii7 any ,federal program that provides block grants to ,states and localities to develop1 promote1 implement1 and manage energy efficiency and conservation projects and programs designed to reduce fossil fuel emissions1 reduce energy use1 improve energy efficiency1 and create and retain jobs4 7,b7 ,state and private amounts ,the ,secretary may require that a portion of the supplemental funds required by paragraph 7#a7 come from the ,state or private sources4 7,c7 ,non-,federal funds ,supplemental funds required by paragraph 7#a7 may include-- 7i7 general or specific purpose ,state or local revenues2 7ii7 ,state categorical grants2 7iii7 special appropriations under ,state law2 7iv7 donations of land1 building1 or building materials2 7v7 in-kind construction1 technical1 and planning services2 and 7vi7 any combination of funds described in this subparagraph4 7d7 ,transfer ,at the discretion of an eligible local government receiving a rehabilitation and construction grant under subsection 7a77#a7 or an innovation and recreation program grant under subsection 7a77#b71 and if consistent with the approved application for such grant1 the a grant may be transferred in whole or in part to private nonprofit agencies1 provided that assisted recreational areas and facilities owned or managed by such private nonprofit agencies offer recreation opportunities to the general population within the jurisdictional boundaries of the local government4 7e7 ,payments ,grant payments may be made only for rehabilitation and construction or innovation and recreation projects and programs approved by the ,secretary4 ,in the case of rehabilitation and construction and innovation projects1 such payments may be made periodically consistent with the rate of progress toward the satisfactory completion of a project1 except that the ,secretary may1 when appropriate1 make advance payments on approved rehabilitation and construction and innovation projects in an amount not to exceed #bj percent of the total project cost4 7f7 ,modification of project ,the ,secretary may authorize modification of an approved rehabilitation and construction or innovation project only when a grantee has adequately demonstrated that such modification is necessary because of circumstances not foreseeable at the time such project was proposed4 #ajd4 ,requirements for rehabilitation and construction grants 7a7 ,priority criteria ,the ,secretary shall establish priority criteria for the selection and approval of projects to be funded by a rehabilitation and construction grant made pursuant to section #ajc7;a77#a71 which shall include whether and the extent to which the project would-- 7#a7 serve a community with a high population density2 7#b7 address demonstrated deficiencies in the condition of existing recreational areas and facilities in the project neighborhood2 7#c7 address demonstrated deficiencies in access to neighborhood recreation opportunities1 particularly for minority and low- and moderate-income residents1 veterans or active duty military families1 and residents with physical or mental disabilities2 7#d7 serve a community with a higher than average number of unemployed people as a percentage of the civilian labor force of the project neighborhood2 7#e7 include public participation in determining rehabilitation or development needs and the extent to which a project supports or complements target activities undertaken as part of a local government's overall community development and urban revitalization program2 7#f7 provide employment opportunities for minorities1 youth1 and low- and moderate-income residents in the project neighborhood2 7#g7 provide for participation of neighborhood1 nonprofit1 or tenant organizations in the proposed rehabilitation and construction activity or in subsequent maintenance1 staffing1 or supervision of recreational areas and facilities2 7#h7 demonstrate ,state1 local1 and private support for the project1 as evidenced by commitments of non-,federal resources to project construction or operation2 7#i7 build recreational areas and facilities in areas that are located within one-half of a mile of public housing or a school and do not currently have indoor or outdoor facilities2 7#aj7 create1 maintain1 or revitalize playgrounds or active play areas for children2 7#aa7 connect children to the outdoors for physical activity and access to nature2 7#ab7 promote physical activity for individuals and the community at large2 7#ac7 work collaboratively with local governments1 colleges1 and universities1 and other institutions to track the longitudinal rates of chronic diseases in the community such as cardiovascular disease1 diabetes1 depression1 and obesity2 7#ad7 use environmentally beneficial components such as sustainable landscape features and upcycled and recycled materials2 7#ae7 provide environmental benefits to urban areas1 by including-- 7,a7 updating lighting2 7,b7 planting trees2 7,c7 increasing the urban forestry canopy2 7,d7 improving stormwater management2 7,e7 increasing green infrastructure2 7,f7 employing water conservation measures2 or 7,g7 adding green spaces2 7#af7 connect to public transportation2 7#ag7 apply the ,,leed ,green ,building ,guidelines of the ,u4,s4 ,green ,building ,council or other sustainability benchmarks that incorporate energy efficiency components1 such as energy efficient lighting and heating ventilation and air conditioning 7,,hvac7 systems and apply the ,,sites sustainable landscape guidelines of the ,sustainable ,sites ,initiative2 7#ah7 contain safe trails or routes1 such as trails1 bikeways1 and sidewalks that connect to neighborhoods and enhance access to parks and recreational areas and facilities2 and 7#ai7 update existing equipment or facilities or construct new facilities or sites1 to comply with the most recent accessibility guidelines published by the ,united ,states ,access ,board1 specifically by removing architectural barriers so that sites comply or exceed the requirements of the final guidelines for the accessibility of recreational areas and facilities4 7b7 ,limitation on use of funds ,not more than #aj percent of any amounts made available pursuant to section #aad for rehabilitation and construction grants under section #ajc7;a77#a7 in any fiscal year may be used for the acquisition of lands or interests in land4 #aje4 ,requirements for innovation and recreation program grants 7a7 ,priority criteria ,the ,secretary shall establish priority criteria for the selection and approval of projects and programs to be funded by an innovation and recreation program grant made pursuant to section #ajc7;a77#b71 including whether and the extent to which the project or program-- 7#a7 promotes the unique integration of recreation with other community services1 such as transportation1 public housing and public safety1 either to expand or update current services or to link programs within the social service structure of a neighborhood or between neighborhoods2 7#b7 utilizes new management and cost-saving or service-efficient approaches for improving the delivery of recreation services2 7#c7 serves communities with a high population of active military families or veterans2 7#d7 ensures accessibility to therapeutic recreation services and provides recreation opportunities for injured or disabled members of the ,armed ,forces2 7#e7 employs veterans or youth1 or uses youth volunteers2 7#f7 enhances or expands youth development in neighborhoods and communities by engaging youth in environmental stewardship1 conservation1 and service projects2 7#g7 targets youth that are at the greatest risk of becoming involved in violence and crime2 7#h7 demonstrates past success in providing constructive alternatives to youth at risk for engaging in criminal behavior2 7#i7 demonstrates collaboration between local park and recreation1 juvenile justice1 law enforcement1 and youth social service agencies and nongovernmental entities1 including private1 nonprofit agencies2 and 7#aj7 shows the greatest potential of being continued with non-,federal funds or may serve as models for other communities4 7b7 ,special considerations ,each innovation and recreation program grant shall be used in accordance with the goals1 priorities1 and implementation strategies expressed in the local park and recreation recovery action program established pursuant to section #ajf for the eligible local government receiving the grant1 with particular regard to the special considerations set forth in the program pursuant to section #ajf7;b74 #ajf4 ,local commitments to system recovery and maintenance 7a7 ,local park and recreation recovery action programs 7#a7 ,in general ,as a requirement for approval of a project or program for a grant under paragraph 7#a7 or 7#b7 of section #ajc7;a71 the eligible local government applying for the grant shall submit to the ,secretary a local park and recreation recovery action program that-- 7,a7 provides evidence of its commitment to ongoing planning1 rehabilitation1 service1 operation1 and maintenance programs for its park and recreation systems2 and 7,b7 maximizes coordination of all community resources1 including other federally supported urban development and recreation programs4 7#b7 ,interim preliminary programs ,the ,secretary shall provide1 by regulation1 that during an initial interim period the requirement under paragraph 7#a7 for an eligible local government to submit a local park and recreation recover action program may be satisfied by submission of a preliminary action program to be carried out by the eligible local government that defines objectives1 priorities1 and implementation strategies for overall system recovery and maintenance and commit such local government to a scheduled program development process4 7#c7 #e-year action program ,after the expiration of the interim period under paragraph 7#b71 each eligible local government that applies for a grant under paragraph 7#a7 or 7#b7 of section #ajc7;a7 shall1 as a condition of eligibility for such grant1 submit to the ,secretary a #e-year park and recreation recovery action program that demonstrates-- 7,a7 identification of recovery objectives1 priorities1 and implementation strategies2 7,b7 adequate planning for rehabilitation of specific recreational areas and facilities1 including projections of the cost of proposed projects2 7,c7 capacity and commitment to ensure that facilities provided or improved under this title shall thereafter continue to be adequately maintained1 protected1 staffed1 and supervised2 7,d7 intention to maintain total local public outlays for park and recreation purposes at levels at least equal to those in the year preceding that in which grant assistance is sought1 except in any case where a reduction in park and recreation outlays is proportionate to a reduction in overall spending by the applicant2 and 7,e7 the relationship of the park and recreation recovery action program to overall community development and urban revitalization efforts4 7#d7 ,continuing planning process ,the ,secretary may1 in such cases as the ,secretary considers appropriate1 encourage local governments to meet recovery action program requirements under this section through a continuing planning process that includes periodic improvements and updates in recovery action program submissions to eliminate identified gaps in program information and policy development4 7b7 ,special considerations ,each local park and recreation recovery action program required by this section shall address1 at a minimum1 the following special considerations3 7#a7 ,rehabilitation of existing recreational areas and facilities1 including-- 7,a7 general systemwide renovation2 7,b7 special rehabilitation requirements for recreational areas and facilities in areas of high population concentration and economic distress2 and 7,c7 restoration of outstanding or unique structures1 landscaping1 or similar features in parks of historical or architectural significance4 7#b7 ,local commitments to innovative and cost-effective programs and projects at the neighborhood level to augment recovery of park and recreation systems1 including-- 7,a7 recycling of abandoned schools and other public buildings for recreation purposes2 7,b7 multiple use of operating educational and other public buildings2 7,c7 purchase of recreation services on a contractual basis2 7,d7 use of mobile facilities and recreational1 cultural1 and educational programs or other innovative approaches to improving access for neighborhood residents2 7,e7 integration of the recovery action program with federally assisted projects to maximize recreation opportunities through conversion of abandoned railroad and highway rights-of-way1 waterfront1 and other redevelopment efforts and such other federally assisted projects1 as appropriate2 7,f7 conversion to recreational use of street space1 derelict land1 and other public lands not now designated for neighborhood recreational use2 and 7,g7 use of various forms of compensated and uncompensated land regulation1 tax inducements1 or other means to encourage the private sector to provide neighborhood park and recreation facilities and programs4 7c7 ,publication of requirements ,the ,secretary shall establish and publish in the ,federal ,register requirements for preparation1 submission1 and updating of local park and recreation recovery action programs required under this section4 7d7 ,innovation and recreation program grants for at-,risk youth ,to be eligible to receive an innovation and recreation program grant under section #ajc7;a77#b7 to be used to provide recreation opportunities or programs for at-risk youth1 an eligible local government shall-- 7#a7 include in its #e-year park and recreation recovery action program required under subsection 7a77#c7 the goal of-- 7,a7 utilizing new ideas1 concepts1 and approaches aimed at improving facility design1 operations1 or programming in the delivery of recreation services2 7,b7 increased access of therapeutic or other recreation services to veterans and military families2 or 7,c7 reducing crime and juvenile delinquency2 and 7#b7 provide a description of-- 7,a7 implementation strategies to achieve such goals2 and 7,b7 how the local government is coordinating its recreation programs with other community development or service agencies4 #ajg4 ,matching of ,state amounts1 ,state action incentive 7a7 ,increase in grant amounts ,the ,secretary may increase ,federal rehabilitation and construction1 innovation1 and at-risk youth recreation grants authorized in section #ajc7;a7 by providing an additional match equal to the total match provided by a ,state of up to #ae percent of total project or program costs1 except that in no event may-- 7#a7 such additional grant amount exceed #ae percent of the total project or program cost2 or 7#b7 the aggregate amount of the grant and the additional grant amounts under this subsection exceed #he percent of total project or program cost4 7b7 ,state action incentive ,the ,secretary shall further encourage the ,states to assist in assuring that local recovery plans and programs are adequately implemented by cooperating with the ,department of ,housing and ,urban ,development in monitoring local park and recreation recovery action programs and in assuring consistency of such plans and programs1 where appropriate1 with ,state recreation policies as set forth in statewide comprehensive outdoor recreation plans4 #ajh4 ,conversion of recreation property 7a7 ,no conversion without approval ,no property improved or developed with assistance under a grant under this title may be converted for uses other than for public recreation1 without the approval of the ,secretary4 7b7 ,standard for approval ,the ,secretary may approve such conversion only-- 7#a7 if the ,secretary determines the conversion to be consistent with the current local park and recreation recovery action program for the local government that improved or developed the property2 and 7#b7 subject to such conditions as the ,secretary determines necessary to ensure the provision of adequate recreation properties and opportunities of reasonably equivalent location and usefulness4 #aji4 ,coordination of program ,the ,secretary shall-- 7#a7 coordinate the community parks revitalization program for grants under this title with other ,federal departments and agencies and with ,state agencies that administer programs and policies affecting urban areas such as the ,white ,house ,office of ,urban ,policy and departments that administer programs and policies affecting climate change1 green jobs1 housing1 urban development1 natural resources management1 employment1 transportation1 community services1 and voluntary action2 7#b7 encourage maximum coordination of the program between appropriate ,state agencies and local government applicants2 and 7#c7 require that local government applicants include provisions for participation of community and neighborhood residents1 including youth1 and for public-private coordination in recovery action program planning and project selection4 #aaj4 ,reports2 recordkeeping2 audit and examination 7a7 ,reports ,each recipient of assistance under this title shall submit to the ,secretary1 for each fiscal year such assistance is received1 an annual report detailing the projects and programs undertaken with such assistance1 the number of jobs created by such assistance1 and any other information the ,secretary determines appropriate based on the priority criteria established by the ,secretary under sections #aje and #ajf4 7b7 ,recordkeeping ,each recipient of assistance under this title shall keep such records as the ,secretary shall prescribe1 including records that fully disclose the amount and disposition of project or program undertakings in connection with which assistance under this title is given or used1 and the amount and nature of that portion of the cost of the project or program undertaking supplied by other sources1 and such other records as will facilitate an effective audit4 7c7 ,audit and examination ,the ,secretary and the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states1 or their duly authorized representatives1 shall have access1 for the purpose of audit and examination1 to any books1 documents1 papers1 and records of a recipient of assistance under this title that are pertinent to such assistance4 #aaa4 ,reports to ,congress 7a7 ,interim report ,not later than #e years after the date of enactment of this ,act1 the ,secretary shall submit to the ,congress an interim report containing such findings and recommendations as the ,secretary determines appropriate with respect to the community parks revitalization program established pursuant to this title4 7b7 ,final report ,not later than #aj years after the date of enactment of this ,act1 the ,secretary shall submit to ,congress a report describing the overall impact of the community parks revitalization program established pursuant to this title4 #aab4 ,definitions ,in this title1 the following definitions shall apply3 7#a7 ,the term eligible local government means a local government that1 pursuant to section #ajc7;b71 is eligible for a grant under section #ajc7;a74 7#b7 ,the term insular areas means ,guam1 the ,virgin ,islands1 ,american ,samoa1 and the ,northern ,mariana ,islands4 7#c7 ,the term local government means any city1 county1 town1 township1 parish1 village1 or any local or regional special district1 such as a park district1 conservation district1 or park authority4 7#d7 ,the term maintenance means all commonly accepted practices necessary to keep recreational areas and facilities operating in a state of good repair and to protect such areas and facilities from deterioration resulting from normal wear and tear4 7#e7 ,the term private nonprofit agency means a community-based1 non-profit organization1 corporation1 or association organized for purposes of providing recreation1 conservation1 and educational services directly to urban residents on either a neighborhood or community-wide basis through voluntary donations1 voluntary labor1 or public or private grants4 7#f7 ,the term recreational areas and facilities means indoor or outdoor parks1 buildings1 sites1 or other facilities that are dedicated to recreation purposes and administered by public or private nonprofit agencies to serve the recreation needs of community residents1 with emphasis on public facilities readily accessible to residential neighborhoods1 including multiple-use community centers that have recreation as a primary purpose1 but not including major sports arenas1 exhibition areas1 and conference halls used primarily for commercial sports1 spectator1 or display activities4 7#g7 ,the term ,secretary means the ,secretary of ,housing and ,urban ,development4 7#h7 ,the term ,state means any ,state of the ,united ,states 7or any instrumentality of a ,state approved by the ,governor71 the ,district of ,columbia1 and the ,commonwealth of ,puerto ,rico4 #aac4 ,regulations 7a7 ,regulations ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,secretary shall promulgate regulations establishing the community parks revitalization program under this title to provide the grants authorized in section #ajc7;a71 in accordance with this title4 7b7 ,requirements ,the regulations required under this section shall include-- 7#a7 the criteria necessary to carry out sections #ajd1 #aje1 and #ajf2 7#b7 requirements regarding the form of1 and elements to be included in1 applications by eligible local governments for grants under this title1 requirements for and detailed instructions on the process for submitting such applications1 and deadlines for such applications2 7#c7 criteria pursuant to sections #ajd7;a7 and #aje7;a7 for priority in selection and approval by the ,secretary of projects or programs to receive grant funds2 7#d7 guidelines regarding whether an applicant may modify a pending application and the process for modifying pending applications1 and guidelines for submitting a request for modification of a project awarded grant funding under this title after such an award has been made2 and 7#e7 penalties that will be assessed on local governments awarded a grant under this title for failure to comply with the reporting and recordkeeping requirements under section #aaj1 which shall provide penalties up to and including rescission of grant amounts for repetitive violations4 #aad4 ,authorization of appropriations 7a7 ,in general ,there are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out this title for each of fiscal years #bjba through #bjcj4 7b7 ,limitation on innovation and recreation program grants ,not more than #aj percent of any amounts appropriated pursuant to subsection 7a7 of this section in any fiscal year may be used for grants under section #ajc7;a77#b74 7c7 ,limitation on recovery action program grants ,not more than #c percent of any amounts appropriated pursuant to subsection 7a7 of this section in any fiscal year may be used for grants under section #ajc7;a77#c74 7d7 ,grants for insular areas ,notwithstanding any other provision of this title1 the ,secretary may use not more than #b percent of any amounts appropriated pursuant to subsection 7a7 in any fiscal year may to provide rehabilitation and construction grants under section #ajc7;a77#a71 innovation and recreation program grants under section #ajc7;a77#b71 and recovery action program grants under section #ajc7;a77#c7 to be used in the insular areas4 ,any such grants shall not be subject to sections #ajc7;c7 and #ajg7;a7 7relating to matching amounts71 and may only be subject to such conditions1 reports1 plans1 and agreements1 if any1 as determined by the ,secretary4 ,,ii ,secured ,loans and ,loan ,guarantees for ,parks and ,recreation ,infrastructure ,development #bja4 ,purposes ,the purposes of this title are-- 7#a7 to promote increased development of parks and recreation infrastructure by establishing additional opportunities for financing parks and recreation projects2 7#b7 to attract new investment capital to infrastructure projects that are capable of generating revenue streams through user fees or other dedicated funding sources2 7#c7 to complement existing ,federal funding sources and address budgetary constraints on the ,national ,park ,service2 and 7#d7 to leverage private investment in parks and recreation infrastructure4 #bjb4 ,authority to provide assistance ,the ,secretary of ,housing and ,urban ,development may provide financial assistance under section #bjh to eligible entities to carry out parks and infrastructure projects selected for such assistance pursuant to section #bjg4 #bjc4 ,eligible entities ,financial assistance under section #bjh may be provided only to the following entities3 7#a7 ,a corporation4 7#b7 ,a partnership4 7#c7 ,a joint venture4 7#d7 ,a trust4 7#e7 ,a ,federal1 ,state1 or local governmental entity1 agency1 or special purpose park and recreation district4 7#f7 ,a ,state infrastructure financing authority4 #bjd4 ,projects eligible for assistance ,financial assistance may be provided under section #bjh1 subject to section #bjg1 only for the following types of projects3 7#a7 ,a project for the development of indoor or outdoor parks1 buildings1 sites1 or other facilities that are dedicated to recreation purposes and administered by public or private nonprofit agencies to serve the recreation needs of community residents1 including multiple-use community centers that have recreation as a primary purpose1 but not including major sports arenas1 exhibition areas1 and conference halls used primarily for commercial sports1 spectator1 or display activities4 7#b7 ,a project for the construction1 planning1 and design of on-road and off-road trail facilities for pedestrians1 bicyclists1 and other nonmotorized forms of transportation1 including sidewalks1 bicycle infrastructure1 pedestrian and bicycle signals1 traffic calming techniques1 lighting and other safety-related infrastructure1 and transportation projects to achieve compliance with the ,americans with ,disabilities ,act of #aiij 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #abaja et seq474 7#c7 ,a project for the construction1 planning1 and design of infrastructure-related projects and systems that will provide safe routes for non-drivers1 including children1 older adults1 and individuals with disabilities to access daily needs4 7#d7 ,a project for the conversion and use of abandoned railroad corridors for trails for pedestrians1 bicyclists1 or other nonmotorized transportation users4 7#e7 ,a project for the construction of turnouts1 overlooks1 and viewing areas4 #bje4 ,activities eligible for assistance ,amounts from a loan made or guaranteed under section #bjh provided for an eligible project may be used for costs of carrying out such project1 including costs of-- 7#a7 development-phase activities1 including planning1 feasibility analysis1 revenue forecasting1 environmental review1 permitting1 preliminary engineering and design work1 and other preconstruction activities2 7#b7 construction1 reconstruction1 rehabilitation1 preservation1 and replacement activities2 7#c7 the acquisition of real property 7including water rights1 land relating to the project1 and improvements to land71 environmental mitigation1 construction contingencies1 and acquisition of equipment2 7#d7 capitalized interest necessary to meet market requirements1 reasonably required reserve funds1 capital issuance expenses1 and other carrying costs during construction2 and 7#e7 refinancing interim construction funding1 long-term project obligations1 or a secured loan or loan guarantee made under this title4 #bjf4 ,applications 7a7 ,in general ,the ,secretary shall provide for eligible entities to submit applications for selection of eligible projects to receive financial assistance under section #bjh1 at such time1 in such manner1 and containing such information as the ,secretary may require4 7b7 ,combined projects ,the ,secretary shall provide that in the case only of an eligible entity described in section #bjc7f71 such an entity may submit a single application for a combination of projects1 each of which is an eligible project under paragraphs 7#a7 through 7#e7 of section #bje4 #bjg4 ,determination of eligibility and project selection 7a7 ,selection of projects ,using the selection criteria under subsection 7c7 of this section1 the ,secretary shall select1 from applications submitted pursuant to section #bjf1 eligible projects that meet the criteria under subsection 7b7 of this section for financial assistance under section #bjh4 7b7 ,project requirements ,an eligible project may not be selected to receive financial assistance under section #bjh unless the ,secretary determines that the project meets all of the following criteria3 7#a7 ,creditworthiness 7,a7 ,in general ,subject to subparagraph 7,b71 the project shall be creditworthy1 as determined by the ,secretary as applicable1 to shall ensure that any financing for the project has appropriate security features1 such as a rate covenant1 to ensure repayment4 7,b7 ,preliminary rating opinion letter ,the ,secretary shall require the applicant for each project to provide1 as part of the application for the project under section #bjf1 a preliminary rating opinion letter from at least one rating agency indicating that the senior project obligations of the project 7which may be the ,federal credit instrument7 have the potential to achieve an investment-grade rating4 7,c7 ,special rule for certain combined projects ,the ,secretary shall develop a credit evaluation process for a ,federal credit instrument provided to a ,state infrastructure financing authority for a project described in section #bjf7;b71 which may include requiring the provision of a preliminary rating opinion letter from at least one rating agency4 7#b7 ,eligible project costs ,the costs of the eligible project shall be reasonably anticipated to be not less than #bj1jjj1jjj4 7#c7 ,dedicated revenue sources ,the ,federal credit instrument for the project shall be repayable1 in whole or in part1 from dedicated revenue sources that also secure the project obligations4 7#d7 ,public sponsorship of private entities ,in the case of a project carried out by an entity that is not a ,state or local government or an agency or instrumentality of a ,state or local government1 the project shall be publicly sponsored4 7c7 ,selection criteria 7#a7 ,establishment ,the ,secretary shall establish criteria for the selection of projects that meet the eligibility requirements of subsection 7b74 ,such criteria shall be designed to ensure a diversity of project types and geographical locations1 and shall include the following3 7,a7 ,the extent to which the project is statewide or regionally significant1 with respect to the generation of increased recreational opportunities4 7,b7 ,the extent to which assistance under this title would foster innovative public-private partnerships and attract private debt or equity investment4 7,c7 ,the likelihood that assistance under this title would enable the project to proceed at an earlier date than the project would otherwise be able to proceed4 7,d7 ,the extent to which the project uses new or innovative approaches4 7,e7 ,the amount of budget authority required to fund the ,federal credit instrument for the project made available under this title4 7,f7 ,the extent to which the project helps maintain or protect the environment4 7,g7 ,the extent to which assistance under this section reduces the contribution of ,federal grant assistance to the project4 7#b7 ,special rule for certain combined projects ,for a project described in section #bjf7;b71 the ,secretary shall only consider the criteria described in subparagraphs 7,b7 through 7,g7 of paragraph 7#a74 7d7 ,federal requirements ,nothing in this section may be construed to alter1 affect1 or annul the applicability of any other ,federal laws or regulations4 #bjh4 ,secured loans and loan guarantees 7a7 ,authority ,the ,secretary may enter into agreements with eligible entities to make1 and may make1 secured loans to such entities as provided under this section for eligible projects selected under section #bjg for financial assistance under this section4 7b7 ,use 7#a7 ,in general ,the proceeds of a secured loan under this section shall be used only-- 7,a7 to finance eligible project costs of an eligible project selected under section #bjg2 7,b7 subject to paragraph 7#b7 of this subsection1 to refinance interim construction financing of eligible project costs of an eligible project selected under section #bjg2 or 7,c7 to refinance long-term project obligations or ,federal credit instruments1 if such refinancing provides additional funding capacity for the completion1 enhancement1 or expansion of a project that-- 7i7 is selected under section #bjg2 or 7ii7 was originally financed1 in whole or in part1 with amounts provided other than under this title1 if the project otherwise meets the requirements of section #bjg4 7#b7 ,limitation on refinancing of interim construction financing ,the proceeds of a secured loan under this section made for an eligible project may not be used for the purpose under paragraph 7#a77;,b7 after the expiration of the #ab-month period beginning upon the date of substantial completion of the project4 7c7 ,risk assessment ,before entering into an agreement under this subsection for a secured loan1 the ,secretary1 in consultation with the ,director of the ,office of ,management and ,budget and each rating agency providing a preliminary rating opinion letter under section #bjg7;b77#a77;,b71 shall determine an appropriate capital reserve subsidy amount for the secured loan1 taking into account each such preliminary rating opinion letter4 7d7 ,investment-,grade rating requirement for senior obligations ,the execution of a secured loan under this section shall be contingent on receipt by the senior obligations of the project of an investment-grade rating4 7e7 ,terms and limitations 7#a7 ,maximum amount ,the amount of a secured loan under this section shall not exceed the lesser of-- 7,a7 an amount equal to #di percent of the reasonably anticipated eligible project costs2 or 7,b7 if the secured loan does not receive an investment-grade rating1 the amount of the senior project obligations of the project4 7#b7 ,payment ,a secured loan under this section-- 7,a7 shall be payable1 in whole or in part1 from ,state or local taxes1 user fees1 or other dedicated revenue sources that also secure the senior project obligations of the relevant project2 7,b7 shall include a rate covenant1 coverage requirement1 or similar security feature supporting the project obligations2 and 7,c7 may have a lien on revenues described in subparagraph 7,a71 subject to any lien securing project obligations4 7#c7 ,interest rate ,the interest rate on a secured loan under this section shall be-- 7,a7 not less than the yield on ,united ,states ,treasury securities of a similar maturity to the maturity of the secured loan on the date of execution of the loan agreement2 and 7,b7 fixed for the term of the loan4 7#d7 ,maturity date 7,a7 ,in general ,except as provided in subparagraph 7,b71 the final maturity date of a secured loan under this section for an eligible project shall be not later than #ce years after the date of substantial completion of the project4 7,b7 ,special rule for ,state infrastructure financing authorities ,the final maturity date of a secured loan under this section made to a ,state infrastructure financing authority shall be not later than #ce years after the date on which loan amounts are first disbursed4 7#e7 ,nonsubordination ,a secured loan under this section shall not be subordinated to the claims of any holder of project obligations in the event of bankruptcy1 insolvency1 or liquidation of the obligor4 7#f7 ,fees ,the ,secretary may establish fees in connection with a secured loan under this section1 in amounts sufficient to cover all or a portion of the costs to the ,federal ,government of secured loans under this section4 7#g7 ,use of proceeds for payment of non-,federal share ,the proceeds of a secured loan under this section may be used to pay any non-,federal share required with respect to other funding obtained for project costs1 but only if such secured loan is repaid using non-,federal funds4 7#h7 ,maximum ,federal involvement ,for any project for which assistance is provided under this title1 the total amount of ,federal assistance from all sources1 including this title1 shall not exceed #hj percent of the total project cost4 7#i7 ,others ,a secured loan provided for a project under this section shall be subject to such other terms and conditions1 and contain such covenants1 representations1 warranties1 and requirements 7including requirements for audits71 as the ,secretary determines to be appropriate4 7f7 ,repayment 7#a7 ,schedule ,the ,secretary shall establish a repayment schedule for each secured loan provided under this section1 based on the projected cash flow from project revenues and other repayment sources4 7#b7 ,commencement 7,a7 ,in general ,except as provided in subparagraph 7,b71 scheduled loan repayments of principal or interest on a secured loan under this section for an eligible project shall commence not later than #e years after the date of substantial completion of the project4 7,b7 ,special rule for ,state infrastructure financing authorities ,scheduled loan repayments of principal or interest on a secured loan made under this section to a ,state infrastructure financing authority shall commence not later than #e years after the date on which amounts are first disbursed4 7#c7 ,deferred payments 7,a7 ,authorization ,if1 at any time after the date of substantial completion of a project for which a secured loan is provided under this section1 the project is unable to generate sufficient revenues to pay the scheduled loan repayments of principal and interest on the loan1 the ,secretary may1 subject to subparagraph 7,c71 allow the obligor to add unpaid principal and interest to the outstanding balance of the secured loan4 7,b7 ,interest ,any payment deferred pursuant to subparagraph 7,a7 shall-- 7i7 continue to accrue interest in accordance with subsection 7e77#c7 until fully repaid2 and 7ii7 be amortized over the remaining term of the secured loan4 7,c7 ,criteria ,any payment deferral pursuant to subparagraph 7,a7 shall be contingent on the project meeting-- 7i7 standards for reasonable assurance of repayment1 as the ,secretary shall establish2 and 7ii7 such other criteria as the ,secretary may establish4 7#d7 ,prepayment 7,a7 ,use of excess revenues ,any excess revenues from an eligible project that remain after satisfying scheduled debt service requirements on the project obligations and secured loan and all deposit requirements under the terms of any trust agreement1 bond resolution1 or similar agreement securing project obligations may be applied annually to prepay a secured loan under this section without penalty4 7,b7 ,use of proceeds of refinancing ,a secured loan under this section may be prepaid at any time1 without penalty1 from the proceeds of refinancing from non-,federal funding sources4 7g7 ,sale of secured loans 7#a7 ,in general ,subject to paragraph 7#b71 if the ,secretary determines that the sale or reoffering of a secured loan under this section for an eligible project can be made on favorable terms1 the ,secretary may sell the loan to another entity or reoffer the loan into the capital markets as soon as practicable after the date of substantial completion of a project and after providing notice to the obligor4 7#b7 ,consent of obligor ,in making a sale or reoffering under paragraph 7#a71 the ,secretary may not change the original terms and conditions of the secured loan without the written consent of the obligor4 7h7 ,loan guarantees 7#a7 ,in general ,in lieu of making a secured loan under this section for an eligible project1 the ,secretary may provide a loan guarantee for a project obligation for the project funded by a qualified lender 7as such term is defined in section #baa71 but only if the ,secretary determines that the cost as such term is defined in section #ejb of the ,federal ,credit ,reform ,act of #aiij 7#b ,u4,s4,c4 #ffa;a7 of the loan guarantee is substantially the same as or less than that of making a secured loan4 7#b7 ,terms ,the terms of a loan guarantee provided under this subsection shall be consistent with the terms established in this section for a secured loan1 except that the interest rate on the guaranteed loan and any prepayment features shall be negotiated between the obligor and the qualified lender1 subject to the consent of the ,secretary4 #bji4 ,program administration 7a7 ,requirement ,the ,secretary shall establish a uniform system to service the ,federal credit instruments made available under this title4 7b7 ,fees 7#a7 ,in general ,the ,secretary may collect and spend fees1 to the extent provided in advance in appropriations ,acts1 in amounts sufficient to cover-- 7,a7 the costs of services obtained pursuant to subsection 7d72 and 7,b7 all or a portion of the costs to the ,federal ,government of servicing the ,federal credit instruments provided under this title4 7c7 ,servicer 7#a7 ,in general ,the ,secretary may appoint a financial entity to assist the ,secretary in servicing ,federal credit instruments provided under this title4 7#b7 ,duties ,a servicer appointed under paragraph 7#a7 shall act as the agent for the ,secretary4 7#c7 ,fee ,a servicer appointed under paragraph 7#a7 shall receive a servicing fee1 subject to approval by the ,secretary4 7d7 ,assistance from experts ,the ,secretary may retain the services1 including counsel1 of organizations and entities with expertise in the field of municipal and project finance to assist in the underwriting and servicing of ,federal credit instruments provided under this title4 #baj4 ,state and local permits ,the provision of financial assistance under section #bjh for an eligible project shall not-- 7#a7 relieve any recipient of such assistance of any obligation to obtain any required ,state or local permit or approval with respect to the project2 7#b7 limit the right of any unit of ,state or local government to approve or regulate any rate of return on private equity invested in the project2 or 7#c7 otherwise supersede any ,state or local law or regulation applicable to the construction or operation of the project4 #baa4 ,definitions ,in this title1 the following definitions shall apply3 7#a7 ,commercial sports ,the term commercial sport means a sports enterprise of which profit-making forms a major part4 7#b7 ,eligible entity ,the term eligible entity means an entity eligible pursuant to section #bjc to receive financial assistance under section #bjh4 7#c7 ,eligible project ,the term eligible project means a project for which financial assistance under section #bjh may be provided1 pursuant to section #bjd4 7#d7 ,eligible project costs ,the term eligible project costs means1 with respect to an eligible project1 any costs of the project eligible under section #bje to be paid with amounts from a loan made or guaranteed pursuant to section #bjh4 7#e7 ,federal credit instrument ,the term ,federal credit instrument means a secured loan made1 or loan guarantee provided1 under section #bjh4 7#f7 ,investment-grade rating ,the term investment-grade rating means1 with respect to project obligations1 a rating of ,,bbb minus1 ,baa#c1 bbb minus1 ,,bbb 7low71 or higher as assigned by a rating agency4 7#g7 ,loan guarantee ,the term loan guarantee means any guarantee or other pledge by the ,secretary to pay all or part of the principal of1 and interest on1 a loan or other debt obligation4 7#h7 ,obligor ,the term obligor means-- 7,a7 with respect to a ,federal credit instrument that is a secured loan under section #bjh1 the eligible entity that is primarily liable for payment of the principal of1 or interest on1 the loan2 and 7,b7 with respect to a ,federal credit instrument that is a loan guarantee under section #bjh7;h71 the eligible entity that is primarily liable for payment of the loan or other debt obligation repayment of which is guaranteed pursuant to such section4 7#i7 ,project obligation ,the term project obligation means1 with respect to an eligible project1 any note1 bond1 debenture1 or other debt obligation issued by an obligor in connection with the financing of the project4 ,such term does not include a ,federal credit instrument4 7#aj7 ,qualified lender 7,a7 ,in general ,the term qualified lender means any non-,federal qualified institutional buyer1 as such term is defined in section #bcj4add;,a7a7 of title #ag1 ,code of ,federal ,regulations 7or any successor regulation71 known as ,rule #add;,a7a7 of the ,securities and ,exchange ,commission and issued under the ,securities ,act of #aicc 7#ae ,u4,s4,c4 #gg;a et seq474 7,b7 ,inclusions ,such term includes-- 7i7 a qualified retirement plan 7as defined in section #digd7;c7 of the ,internal ,revenue ,code of #aihf7 that is a qualified institutional buyer2 and 7ii7 a governmental plan 7as defined in section #dad7;d7 of the ,internal ,revenue ,code of #aihf7 that is a qualified institutional buyer4 7#aa7 ,rating agency ,the term rating agency means a credit rating agency registered with the ,securities and ,exchange ,commission as a nationally recognized statistical rating organization 7as defined in section #c7;a7 of the ,securities ,exchange ,act of #aicd 7#ae ,u4,s4,c4 #gh;c7a7774 7#ab7 ,secretary ,the term ,secretary means the ,secretary of ,housing and ,urban ,development4 7#ac7 ,secured loan ,the term secured loan means a direct loan or other debt obligation issued by an obligor and funded by the ,secretary pursuant to section #bjh4 7#ad7 ,state ,the term ,state means a ,state1 the ,district of ,columbia1 the ,commonwealth of ,puerto ,rico1 and any other territory or possession of the ,united ,states4 7#ae7 ,state infrastructure financing authority ,the term ,state infrastructure financing authority means the ,state entity established or designated by the ,governor of a ,state to receive assistance under this title4 7#af7 ,subsidy amount ,the term subsidy amount means1 with respect to a ,federal credit instrument1 the amount of budget authority sufficient to cover the estimated long-term cost to the ,federal ,government of the ,federal credit instrument1 as calculated on a net present value basis1 excluding administrative costs and any incidental effects on governmental receipts or outlays in accordance with the ,federal ,credit ,reform ,act of #aiij 7#b ,u4,s4,c4 #ffa et seq474 7#ag7 ,substantial completion ,the term substantial completion means1 with respect to a project1 the earliest date on which a project is considered capable of performing the functions for which the project is designed4 #bab4 ,regulations ,the ,secretary may issue such regulations as the ,secretary considers appropriate to carry out this title4 #bac4 ,funding ,from amounts made available for ,federal purposes under section #e of the ,land and ,water ,conservation ,fund ,act of #aife 7#af ,u4,s4,c4#dfjl-#g71 there is authorized to be appropriated to the ,secretary to carry out this title #ej1jjj1jjj for each of fiscal years #bjba through #bjbe1 to remain available until expended1 of which in each such fiscal year-- 7#a7 the ,secretary may use for the administration of this title1 including program administration under section #bji1 not more than #b1bjj1jjj2 and 7#b7 the remainder shall be available for costs 7as such term is defined in section #ejb of the ,federal ,credit ,reform ,act of #aiij 7#b ,u4,s4,c4 #ffa;a77 of loans and loan guarantees under section #bjh4 #bad4 ,report to ,congress ,not later than #b years after the date of enactment of this ,act1 and every #b years thereafter1 the ,secretary shall submit to the ,congress a report summarizing the financial performance of the projects that are receiving1 or have received1 assistance under this title1 including a recommendation as to whether the objectives of this title are being met4