Governor Kathy Hochul announced more than $225 million in funding for 165 water quality protection projects across New York State, with a significant focus on benefiting environmental justice communities disproportionately affected by pollution. The grants will address aging water infrastructure, reduce harmful algal blooms, protect drinking water supplies, and enhance aquatic habitats statewide.
Of the total funding, over $197 million is allocated to projects in communities facing historical environmental challenges. The investment aligns with the state’s ongoing efforts to promote equity in environmental and public health initiatives, according to the Governor.
The projects, funded through the Department of Environmental Conservation’s (DEC) Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) grant program, are part of a broader strategy to enhance water quality and resiliency against climate change. These initiatives include upgrading wastewater treatment plants, addressing phosphorus runoff, constructing salt storage facilities, and restoring fish and wildlife habitats.
Additional support comes from the Non-Agricultural Nonpoint Source Planning and Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System Mapping Grant (NPG), which funds projects to mitigate stormwater runoff and protect urban waterways. Many projects target watersheds known for harmful algal blooms, with nearly half of the grants addressing these issues.
Governor Hochul emphasized that these investments are part of a generational commitment to clean water and environmental justice, prioritizing infrastructure upgrades and pollution reduction in disadvantaged communities.
State officials highlighted the impact of the funding on public health and environmental protection. DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar noted the importance of modernizing water systems to ensure clean drinking water and support ecological recovery. Similarly, Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald praised the funding for addressing health disparities by improving water access and infrastructure in underserved areas.
The funding also supports best practices for road salt reduction to protect public health and aquatic ecosystems. Recommendations from the Adirondack Road Salt Reduction Task Force include investments in brine-making equipment, GPS tracking for plows, and other advanced technologies to reduce the environmental impact of winter road maintenance.
The awarded projects leverage federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Clean Water, Clean Air, Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022, as well as state resources like the Environmental Protection Fund and Clean Water Infrastructure Act.
EPA Region 2 Administrator Lisa F. Garcia commended New York’s efforts to prioritize water quality and infrastructure improvements, especially in underserved communities, calling the investments critical for public health and economic development.
A substantial portion of the funding is directed at watersheds affected by harmful algal blooms (HABs). Approximately $102 million will support projects in areas with a history of HABs, while $15 million is allocated to initiatives reducing road salt use.
The awarded projects span diverse priorities, from wastewater treatment and dam safety repairs to habitat restoration and climate resiliency planning. These efforts aim to reduce pollution, safeguard drinking water, and enhance New York’s capacity to address future environmental challenges.
With this funding, Governor Hochul’s administration continues its commitment to sustainable infrastructure and environmental justice, ensuring cleaner water and healthier communities for generations to come. A full list of funded projects is available on the DEC website.
