On the heels of intensifying climate awareness, Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that over $21 million in funding is now available to boost zero-emission mobility projects across New York State. According to a release published by the Governor's Office last week, the Clean Mobility Program seeks to create environmentally friendly transportation options in underserved communities, complete with micro mobility, ridesharing, and on-demand services.
“Our priority is linking communities, including areas that have been historically marginalized, with resources that provide residents with a variety of flexible transportation options that allow them to conduct their daily business uninterrupted,” Governor Hochul stated, asserting New York's steadfast drive to uphold clean air standards despite shifts in federal policy. The NYSERDA-administered program will funnel support to local governments, transit operators and community organizations, among others, to advance clean mobility solutions with a focus on long-term affordability, as per the Governor's Office.
Those seeking funding for demonstration projects must submit proposals that include community engagement plans and thorough feasibility assessments. The guidelines are clear: an applicant can only be awarded once and must contribute at least a 20 percent cost share of non-NYSERDA funding for total project costs. Additionally, any proposed e-bikes or e-scooters must be industry approved, keeping in line with stringent safety standards such as UL certification.
According to New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) President and CEO Doreen M. Harris, the demand for sustainable mobility options is on the rise, benefiting community engagement and activity. “We look forward to receiving innovative demonstration proposals that offer the opportunity to help New Yorkers maintain transportation independence”, she said, and can be mimicked across the state. Harris underlined the potential for these green transportation options to be replicated, ensuring a wider adoption throughout New York, as reported by the Governor's Office.
In addition to prioritizing disadvantaged communities, the program earmarks up to $8 million for projects in areas served by upstate investor-owned utilities, highlighting potential for micro mobility ventures and broader eligible project types in regions like the Bronx. NYSERDA has planned informational webinars and showcases to steer prospective applicants through the solicitation process, largely facilitating connections with mobility solutions providers.
Last year's actions by Governor Hochul, which included signing legislation to promote the safe use of e-bikes and crafting a consumer safety guide for lithium-ion batteries, embody New York's proactive steps to establish safer, greener mobility alternatives. With New York's Climate Agenda weaponizing investment as a catalyst for transformation, the recent $21 million funding aligns with broader goals aimed at zero-emission futures for energy, buildings, transportation and waste sectors by 2050.
