Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that $43 million from New York’s Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act will support construction of the Manhattan Greenway’s Harlem River section. The funding will help connect local residents to the waterfront and increase protections against extreme weather and rising sea levels.
The Manhattan Greenway Harlem River project includes rebuilding the seawall, adding pedestrian and bike paths, and creating a new seven-block waterfront park. This effort is part of a larger initiative to establish a 32.5-mile green space ring around Manhattan, aiming to provide climate-friendly transportation options and manage stormwater more effectively.
“New York State is investing in Harlem and other neighborhoods across the city with support from the $4.2 billion Environmental Bond Act, connecting communities to the waterfront while also making these areas more resilient and sustainable,” Governor Hochul said. “Last week’s severe flooding and resulting State of Emergency declaration are reminders that extreme weather is no longer a rare occurrence — it’s our new reality. This project comes at a critical time as we double down on building climate resilience, protecting vulnerable areas, and expanding access to safe and healthy outdoor spaces.”
The total cost for the Harlem River segment is $309 million, led by New York City agencies including the Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) and NYC Parks. The state’s contribution aims to address climate risks in East Harlem by raising the shoreline by about two feet—up to an elevation projected to be effective through 2080—to reduce flood risk from sea level rise. The new park will add hundreds of trees, shrubs, lawns, passive recreation areas, seating, fitness zones, playgrounds, public art installations, and community gathering spaces.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton stated: “New York State’s Environmental Bond Act investment in the Manhattan Greenway is a textbook example of how Governor Hochul is centering equity and advancing climate resilience in careful consideration of specific community needs and vulnerabilities, here in the city and across the state. DEC’s $43 million commitment to the Harlem River Greenway will help address climate vulnerabilities and disparities in one of the nation’s most disadvantaged communities by elevating the shoreline to reduce risks from climate change-driven sea level rise and intense storms, while connecting East Harlem residents with expanded waterfront access. I am thrilled to see progress underway to connect local residents with the waterfront and new opportunities to get outside and enjoy Manhattan.”
Iris-Rodriguez Rosa, New York City Parks Commissioner said: “We’re so grateful for the State for their support in championing this investment in new open space and resiliency improvements along the East River. Construction is already underway on Manhattan Greenway Harlem River and we look forward to providing more updates to the community as the project progresses.”
Andrew Kimball, President & CEO of NYCEDC added: “This is a major step forward to completing the Manhattan Greenway Harlem River project from 125th-132nd Street that will connect the East Harlem community back to the waterfront and build a more equitable and greener New York City. NYCEDC, alongside our State and local partners, is committed to expanding New York City’s already robust greenways system, working to close critical gaps in the system in order to build a more sustainable, resilient, and interconnected future for New York City.”
Several elected officials expressed their support for this investment:
State Senator Robert Jackson commented: “The Harlem River has long been a dividing line—between access and exclusion, between concrete and canopy. But this $43 million investment begins to rewrite that legacy… Because everyone has a right to clean air and clean water.”
State Senator Cordell Cleare said: “This project represents the best of both worlds—strengthening connection between our community…while simultaneously building in resilience…”
Assemblymember Jordan J.G. Wright emphasized recent weather events as proof that such investments are needed: “From Hurricane Sandy…we know that extreme weather is new normal…The Harlem River Greenway Project creates jobs…is powerful step towards achieving environmental justice…”
Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine noted: “I am thrilled that New York State is investing…This funding is an investment in climate equity…”
City Council Member Yusuf Salaam called it “a turning point,” highlighting reconnection with riverfront access.
City Council Member Carmen De La Rosa stressed urgency for infrastructure improvements due flooding impacts on her district.
According to recent announcements, Governor Hochul has made additional funds available through initiatives like Green Resiliency Grants aimed at supporting stormwater management projects statewide; applications are open until August 15.
This development follows broader efforts under Governor Hochul’s administration focused on enhancing parks infrastructure throughout New York state via various budget allocations—including $200 million for state parks upgrades—and programs designed for youth recreation facilities.
On November 8th 2022 voters approved the $4.2 billion Environmental Bond Act, which supports projects intended not only for environmental protection but also economic revitalization through job creation tied directly into green infrastructure work statewide.
More information about these programs can be found at environmentalbondact.ny.gov.
