Bill > A02028

This bill establishes the Sustainable Communities Fund, a new financial mechanism designed to support municipal corporations in developing environmentally friendly and climate-resilient infrastructure projects. The fund will be jointly managed by the state comptroller and the commissioner of environmental conservation, and will provide grants to local governments that meet specific eligibility criteria. To qualify for grants, municipal corporations must incorporate smart growth principles into their comprehensive plans, demonstrate that their projects align with these plans, and show an ability to match state funding on a dollar-for-dollar basis. Eligible projects can include a wide range of urban development initiatives such as creating walkable communities with expanded sidewalks and bike lanes, waterfront revitalization efforts, beautification projects, combating urban sprawl, and developing mixed-use communities. The bill requires the commissioner of environmental conservation to develop rules and regulations for grant application and distribution, with an emphasis on projects that utilize climate-resilient and environmentally friendly construction techniques. The legislation is set to take effect immediately, allowing for immediate implementation of the grant program.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2028