Governor Kathy Hochul today announced new awards through Round XIII of the Regional Economic Development Council Initiative with $26.6 million awarded through the state-funded Environmental Protection Fund to support 72 projects and $2.4 million from the federally funded Recreational Trails Program for 15 projects.
“These initiatives plant new seeds for growth, helping communities across New York State realize new potential whether that means attracting new visitors, solidifying important landmarks or new investment,” Governor Hochul said. “The Regional Economic Development Councils are committed to growth, restoration and economic viability.”
“The Regional Economic Development Council Initiative is all about building a stronger New York State,” said Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado, Chair of the Statewide Regional Economic Development Councils. “We rely on our municipalities and not-for-profit organizations to work together to identify the needs and regional priorities including parks and historic areas and make sure they have the resources necessary to reach their goals. Congratulations to these recipients from 43 counties across the Empire State.”
The grants from the Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) support 72 projects including park improvements, heritage area enhancements and historic preservation projects. The grants for the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) support 15 projects. The RTP is an assistance program with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration. In New York State, both the EPF and RTP are administered by the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP).
The EPF Grant Program for Parks, Heritage and Preservation supports matching grants for the acquisition, planning, development, and improvement of parks, historic properties, and heritage areas located within New York. Funds are awarded to municipalities or not-for-profits with an ownership interest.
The RTP Grant Program supports matching grants to develop and maintain recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both motorized and non-motorized trail uses. Funds are awarded to municipalities or not-for-profits with an ownership interest.
The Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) process continues to support and empower regional stakeholders in developing strategic plans and funding priorities that meet local economic needs. Regional Councils reviewed projects from this program and provided scores that reflect how well a project aligns with a region’s goals and strategies. Applicants utilized New York’s Consolidated Funding Application, the state’s single application for state resources, which includes programs for numerous agencies. It is designed to provide expedited and streamlined access to a combined pool of grant funds and tax credits from dozens of existing programs. A full list of Round XIII awards that have been made can be found here.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The REDC’s help guide New York State’s strategic investments through their deep knowledge of regions and assets. These awards will enhance the experience for residents and visitors alike at New York’s historic heritage sites and promote the beauty of our outdoor spaces.”
Commissioner of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Erik Kulleseid said, “This is lucky number 13 of the REDC grants which help build on environmental goals, celebrate diversity and improve the economic vitality across New York State. We look forward to working with these grant recipients to make these exciting projects a reality.”
Representative Brian Higgins said, “From Buffalo to Niagara Falls and places in between, Governor Hochul is investing in Western New York’s cultural, historical, recreational, and community-based destinations. These commitments will enrich the regional economy and the experiences of Western New York residents, workers, and visitors.”
Representative Paul Tonko said, “Our parks, trails, and historic sites play a key role in connecting all of us across distance, creed, and time. I’m thrilled to see these projects delivered to Saratoga and across New York. I look forward to continuing my work at the federal level to invest in projects that celebrate the strength of our state, drive our regional economy, and bring our communities together.”
Representative Pat Ryan said, “From the oldest section of the Appalachian Trail to the pathways that President Franklin Roosevelt toed in Hyde Park, the Hudson Valley is home to some of the most prolific and scenic places in our nation. Thank you to Governor Hochul for this monumental investment in preserving our historic sites and pristine landscapes for generations to come.”
About the Consolidated Funding Application
The Consolidated Funding Application was created to streamline and expedite the grant application process. The CFA process marks a fundamental shift in the way state resources are allocated, ensuring less bureaucracy and greater efficiency to fulfill local economic development needs. The CFA serves as the single-entry point for access to economic development funding, ensuring applicants no longer have to slowly navigate multiple agencies and sources without any mechanism for coordination. Now, economic development projects use the CFA as a support mechanism to access multiple state funding sources through one application, making the process quicker, easier, and more productive. Learn more about the CFA here.
About the Regional Economic Development Councils
The Regional Economic Development Council initiative is a key component of the State’s approach to State investment and economic development. In 2011, 10 Regional Councils were established to develop long-term strategic plans for economic growth for their regions. The Councils are public-private partnerships made up of local experts and stakeholders from business, academia, local government, and non-governmental organizations. The Regional Councils have redefined the way New York invests in jobs and economic growth by putting in place a community-based, bottom-up approach and establishing a competitive process for State resources. Learn more at regionalcouncils.ny.gov.
