More greenery is coming to New York as Gov. Kathy Hochul's office announced more than $5 million in additional funding for Urban and Community Forestry Grants.
The office says the money will go to pay for about 17 projects, mainly focused on community forest management and tree planting.
“Investing in community green space is a significant step towards revitalizing our cities and towns, and ensuring a sustainable, resilient future for all New Yorkers,” Gov. Hochul said. “These investments will help to provide cleaner air and water to every corner of our state, and move us closer to achieving our climate goals.”
It comes as the state prepares for its annual Climate Week starting Sunday.
"Urban trees are more than just a touch of nature in our cities—they help mitigate extreme heat, improve air quality, and support public health. By enhancing green spaces in areas impacted by climate change and other environmental challenges, we cool streets and homes while improving the quality of life for all New Yorkers. Trees are an integral part of our urban landscapes and leave a legacy for future generations," Sean Mahar, interim commissioner, NYS DEC, said.
State officials say the new round of funding comes as part of the federal Inflation Reduction Act.
The projects in upstate New York that were awarded additional funding are:
Capital Region
Albany County
- City of Albany Department of General Services: $456,705 additional, for a total of $876,965; Community Forest Management Plan Implementation
Greene County
- Village of Athens: $237,335 additional, for a total of $577,968; Community Forest Management Plan Implementation
Rensselaer County
- City of Troy: $64,800 additional, for a total of $382,400; Community Forest Management Plan Implementation
Central New York
Onondaga County
- City of Syracuse: $414,858 additional, for a total of $910,141; Community Forest Management Plan Implementation
Finger Lakes
Genesee County
- City of Batavia: $306,218 additional, for a total of $758,950; Ash Tree Management in Disadvantaged Communities
Monroe County
- City of Rochester: $399,250 additional, for a total of $598,875; Community Forest Management Plan Implementation
Hudson Valley
Ulster County
- City of Kingston: $240,824 additional, for a total of $732,375; Community Forest Management Plan Implementation
Westchester
- City of New Rochelle: $6,600 additional, for a total of $41,600; Ash Tree Management in Disadvantaged Communities
North Country
Clinton County
- Clinton County Soil and Water Conservation District: $231,325 additional, for a total of $460,947; Ash Tree Management in Disadvantaged Communities
Jefferson County
- City of Watertown: $150,000 additional, for a total of $550,000; Community Forest Management Plan Implementation
Western New York
Chautauqua County
- City of Dunkirk: $35,867 additional, for a total of $158,313; Community Forest Management Plan Implementation