Governor Kathy Hochul announced on March 30 the availability of nearly $100 million in new grant funding to support nature-based and green infrastructure projects aimed at reducing flood risk and enhancing community resilience to extreme weather. The funding is provided through two programs: the Resilient Watersheds Grant Program, managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC), and the Community Resilience and Flood Risk Reduction Grants Program, administered by the Department of State (DOS).
The announcement is part of a broader effort to help communities strengthen their infrastructure, improve water quality, and protect residents from climate-related threats. Both grant programs are funded through the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022.
“Through the historic funding commitments in the Environmental Bond Act and many other resiliency programs, New York State is fast becoming the most climate resilient state in the nation,” Governor Hochul said. “This $100 million investment will strengthen our ability to withstand future storms, while also creating healthier and more sustainable communities and economies for generations to come.”
The Resilient Watersheds Grant Program offers $60 million for projects such as dam removal, bridge improvements, culvert replacements, stream restoration, streambank stabilization, and property buyouts. According to DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton: “Pairing the transformative Environmental Bond Act with Governor Hochul’s focus on addressing costly and dangerous flooding enables DEC to launch this second round of Resilient Watersheds Grants. The funding will invest an additional $60 million to reduce flood risk and protect residents living in vulnerable communities across the state to ensure a safer and more sustainable future for all New Yorkers.” The Community Resilience program provides another $40 million for coastal rehabilitation as well as inland flooding mitigation efforts.
Environmental Facilities Corporation President Maureen A. Coleman said: “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York is making smart investments that keep our communities safe and resilient. By leveraging Environmental Bond Act funding to support science-backed flood mitigation projects, we are equipping local communities with the resources they need to protect lives, strengthen infrastructure and reduce future flood risk.” Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley added: “Governor Hochul has ushered in an unprecedented era of climate resilience that will protect people, homes and businesses from the ravages of climate change well into the future. These essential programs and projects will have far reaching economic, social and environmental benefits.”
Applications must be submitted through New York’s Consolidated Funding Application portal by June 26 at 4 p.m., with a live informational webinar scheduled for April 7.
In addition to these grants funded by bond act proceeds passed under her administration last year—including initiatives like green roofs or permeable pavement—Hochul’s Executive Budget proposes further investments totaling billions over five years toward water infrastructure improvements as well as expanded funds for environmental protection.
