On November 8, 2022, New Yorkers overwhelmingly approved a ballot proposition to make $4.2 billion available for environmental and community projects. DEC can access funding to protect water quality, help communities adapt to climate change, improve resiliency, and create green jobs.
Bond Act Funding will support new and expanded projects across the State to safeguard drinking water sources, reduce pollution, and protect communities and natural resources from climate change.
Bond Act Priorities
Advancing Environmental Justice
At least 35% of the funds benefit disadvantaged communities significantly impacted by environmental changes.
Mitigating Climate Change
Bond Act investments will help municipalities reimagine, redesign and rebuild to withstand future high-water and storm events.
Job Creation
Significant labor provisions in the Bond Act will promote job creation by establishing an estimated 84,000 green jobs.
Protecting Natural Resources
Expanding access to open space, preserving farmland, and supporting projects.
Bond Act Funding Categories
Climate Change Mitigation
Up to $1.5 Billion to Reduce Air Pollution and Fight Climate Change
Funding will support green infrastructure and renewable energy improvements to buildings statewide. Additional provisions provide relief from urban heat, and funding for communities to replace trees lost over the past 60 years.
Restoration and Flood Risk Reduction
Not Less Than $1.1 Billion to Protect Communities from Flood Risks
Funding will advance shoreline resiliency projects and support efforts to remove or repair aging dams and to restore fish habitats.
Water Quality Improvement and Resilient Infrastructure
Not Less Than $650 Million to Safeguard Drinking Water Sources and Reduce Water Pollution
The Bond Act will upgrade wastewater infrastructure and replace failing septic systems. It will also fund much-needed improvements for New York's roads, culverts, sewers, and drinking water infrastructure across the State, and support critical upgrades to water and sewer lines and replace lead pipes.
Open Space Land Conservation and Recreation
Up to $650 Million to Improve Access to and Protect Nature
Bond Act funding will help preserve more lands and grow opportunities for recreation across the State.
Additional Funding
$300 million is also allocated to be used across any of the above categories.
For more information, visit the Bond Act website.
