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Governor Kathy Hochul announced $3.8 million in new funding for community projects in the Adirondack and Catskill parks on Thursday (July 17). The funding is part of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's Community Smart Growth Grants Program, aimed at promoting sustainable development and environmental protection.
The grants will allocate $2.8 million for projects in the Adirondack Park and $1 million for projects in the Catskill Park. These funds are intended to support projects that enhance community livability, economic development, and environmental stewardship. According to Governor Hochul, the grants will help create economic opportunities, affordable housing, and tourism while protecting natural resources.
Applications for the funding are open until October 1, 2025, and eligible applicants include counties, towns, villages, and non-profit organizations located within the parks. The grants are part of a broader effort to support smart growth initiatives, which aim to balance development with environmental conservation. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the Department of State are working together to implement these projects.
The DEC will host a virtual information session on July 23 to provide details on the program requirements and application process. For more information, visit the DEC's website.