Amidst celebrations of National Water Quality Month, Governor Kathy Hochul declared the awarding of over $20 million in grants aimed at bolstering clean water initiatives across New York. This financial injection will spread across two significant programs—the Green Innovation Grant Program receiving $17 million for eco-friendly infrastructure projects, and over $3 million dedicated to helping local communities with Wastewater Infrastructure Engineering Planning Grants, as per an announcement retrieved from the Governor's Office official website.
"Every New Yorker deserves access to clean, safe water, and we're making that happen by investing in smart, affordable infrastructure upgrades," Governor Hochul said, and the Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC) is leading the charge in distributing these funds, which will support a range of projects from stormwater management to water efficiency, while also supporting economic development and enhancing resilience to extreme weather events, according to EFC President and CEO Maureen A. Coleman, she commented on the importance of this funding to minimize financial impacts on ratepayers and bolster community planning for essential infrastructure upgrades, as per the Governor's Office.
A few project highlights include the City of Lockport receiving $1.4 million for green improvements to its streetscape and the Village of Malone being granted $3 million for crucial water meter installations. New York City's Department of Parks and Recreation benefits from a $1.3 million allocation, facilitating the South Bronx waterfront revitalization. These projects, alongside others, ensure adherence to sanitary standards, addressing contemporary water usage demands, and mitigating pollution in key water bodies including the Hudson River, Lake George, and Susquehanna River.
The filed statement from Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton echoed the grants' reach, affirming projects from Westchester County to the Finger Lakes and beyond, fortifying New York's dedication to clean water access and long-term resiliency. Meanwhile, Senator Charles Schumer highlighted the broader scope, crediting the Clean Water State Revolving Fund for vital water and sewer system modernizations that would not only yield a steady stream of jobs but also upgrade New York's aging water infrastructure to keep communities safe and healthy, and Representative Tim Kennedy praised this effort, emphasizing clean water as a human right and committing to continued federal support for such initiatives.
With plans to allot $500 million for similar endeavors in the FY26 budget, as Governor Hochul mentioned, New York's total investment in water infrastructure is expected to surge to an unprecedented $6 billion since 2017, showcasing an unwavering commitment to safeguarding a resource fundamental to New Yorkers' well-being. Those interested in following the progress of these water infrastructure projects can utilize EFC's interactive project impact dashboard through their website for up-to-date tracking of the state's efforts.
