A total of $178.8 million in funding has been awarded to 75 communities across the state of New York for projects that promote environmentally friendly modes of travel and make it easier and safer to walk, bike or hike.
The funding will improve access to the transportation system for all users and advance New York State's nation-leading agenda to fight climate change by supporting the construction of new sidewalks, shared use paths and other enhancements that facilitate the use of non-motorized modes of travel and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
More than two-thirds of the projects awarded will benefit Environmental Justice Communities, thereby helping to improve connectivity, air quality and bicycle and pedestrian access for the predominantly low-and-moderate-income families living in those areas.
"As demonstrated through the recently adopted state budget and our historic capital plan, New York continues to make unprecedented investments so we can build back stronger than ever before," said New York Gov. Kathy Hochul. "We're investing in strategic initiatives across the state to improve quality of life, promote economic growth and revitalize our communities. Most importantly, by advancing mobility alternatives, these awards will provide new opportunities and remove barriers for individuals in Environmental Justice Communities that have traditionally lacked adequate transportation access."
Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado added, "New York is committed to moving projects like this forward that will not only help lower emissions using transportation alternatives but will also mitigate traffic congestion and help improve connectivity, air quality and access for predominantly low-and-moderate-income families. This funding is a win for all regions across New York State, and it is another example of our commitment to making smart investments today that will benefit New Yorkers for generations to come."
The funding, which provides up to 80 percent of total project costs, is made available through the Federal Highway Administration and administered by the New York State Department of Transportation. Projects were selected through a competitive solicitation process that required awardees to demonstrate how proposed activities would contribute to increasing the use of non-vehicular transportation alternatives, reduce vehicle emissions and/or mitigate traffic congestion.
Combined with project sponsor contributions, these awards will leverage nearly $550 million in additional community investments.
Breakdown of funding by region:
- Capital Region - $27.2 million
- Finger Lakes - $23.7 million
- Long Island - $6.8 million
- Mid-Hudson - $38.8 million
- Mohawk Valley - $8.6 million
- New York City - $7.7 million
- North Country - $5.1 million
- Southern Tier - $8.0 million
- Western New York - $38.8 million
A full list of projects by region is available online.
"Gov. Kathy Hochul is unwavering in her commitment to improving the lives of all New Yorkers, with targeted investments in every region of the state to promote all possible modes of transportation,” said New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez. “With a strong focus on sidewalks, recreational opportunities, and pedestrian and bike access, these projects support the increased public demand in the post COVID-19 environment for more walkable and bikeable communities. Investments like these will pave the way towards a future in line with the governor's vision, where our communities are more connected, our transportation networks are more accessible to everyone and our carbon footprint is smaller."
About New York State's Climate Act
In July 2019, New York passed the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (Climate Act), which represents the one of the most ambitious and comprehensive climate and clean energy legislation in the country. The Climate Act's climate and energy goals set the stage for a sweeping set of measures to reduce the state’s carbon footprint and improve the resiliency of communities across New York.
It will provide opportunities for residents and communities alike to partner with businesses, schools and government to create a green economy and build a more sustainable future.
