Family Fun Destinations Program (DMPED)

The purpose of the Family Fun Destinations Program to promote the development of permanent or semi-permanent family-friendly Projects in the District of Columbia. The Program will provide grants for the purpose of creating or enhancing public spaces, exhibits, or activities that will attract families to the District’s Central Business District. The Program will incentivize the development or enhancement of permanent or semi-permanent attractions that will drive foot traffic, offer a new experience to the surrounding neighborhood, and create economic impact. The term “attraction” means an indoor or outdoor facility or space that is open to the public for cultural, recreational, or entertainment uses. Example Projects include community-gathering spaces, performance or creative space, outdoor game or music infrastructure, public art, activities for children and families (e.g., a children’s garden, play equipment, etc.), and immersive, interactive, or virtual reality experiences. The Program will be funded pursuant to the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development Limited Grant-Making Authority Act of 2012, effective September 12, 2012 (D.C. Law 19-168; D.C. Official Code § 1-328.04(x)), and the “American Rescue Plan Act of 2021”, effective March 11, 2021 (Public Law No: 117-2) (as may be amended or extended, “ARPA”). The Program is also supported by the Economic Development Administration State Tourism Grant Program.