On Earth Day, Governor Kathy Hochul announced the launch of a new $60 million round of Green Resiliency Grants aimed at helping New York communities combat flooding and climate impacts. Funded by the state’s landmark Environmental Bond Act, the program supports stormwater and resilient infrastructure projects in high-risk areas across the state.
Applications open May 1
Communities can apply for the 2025 grant round starting May 1 through the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC). The funding will prioritize transformational green infrastructure projects that reduce flood risk, improve water quality, and create long-term climate resilience.
“New Yorkers are on the front lines of extreme weather,” Governor Hochul said. “This investment will protect homes and neighborhoods, create good-paying jobs, and build a cleaner, safer future for our state.”
Building on 2024’s success
The first round of Green Resiliency Grants in 2024 awarded $60 million to 13 major projects statewide. This year’s funding continues that momentum, focusing on long-term solutions in communities vulnerable to rising water and stronger storms.
Key benefits of green infrastructure funded through the program include:
- Flood mitigation by controlling stormwater runoff
- Cleaner water and air through natural filtration
- Urban cooling to reduce heat islands
- Habitat restoration and ecosystem renewal
- Community revitalization and job creation
A core part of New York’s climate and water agenda
The funding is part of the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act, passed in 2022 to drive major environmental upgrades across the state. Governor Hochul’s administration has prioritized climate resilience, with more than $2.2 billion in water infrastructure support issued in fiscal year 2024 alone.
The Governor’s FY26 Executive Budget proposes another $500 million for clean water infrastructure, bringing the state’s total water investment since 2017 to over $6 billion.
State officials urge communities to apply
EFC President Maureen A. Coleman emphasized the urgency of the initiative: “Families shouldn’t fear flooding every time it rains. These grants deliver the tools local governments need to build stronger, safer neighborhoods.”
New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton added that the program offers “generational investments” in climate readiness.
Lawmakers echoed the importance of the funding for both environmental protection and economic growth. “This is resilience in action,” said State Senator Pete Harckham.
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