New York voters demonstrated overwhelming support for the groundbreaking “Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Bond Act” last November, which is the largest environmental bond act in the history of the state. This act provides $4.2 billion in funding for environmental and community projects throughout New York. Crucially, it prioritizes investments in the preservation and improvement of New York’s natural spaces and resources, including open-space conservation, recreational activities, restoration efforts, flood risk reduction, climate change mitigation, resilient infrastructure, and water quality.
The significance of this investment cannot be overstated, particularly for the Delaware River watershed. With more than 14.2 million people, including half of New York City’s population, relying on the Delaware River for drinking water, it is imperative that strategic investments are made in its upper headwaters region, located in the western Catskills and Southern Tier. The Upper Delaware River region is home to diverse populations of plant species, wildlife, and people, and it serves as a hub for outdoor recreational activities. The Delaware River and its headwaters provide billions of dollars worth of natural goods and services to the state, benefiting industries such as recreation, tourism, resources, and agriculture, which in turn contribute to the local economy and job market.
However, the Upper Delaware region also faces environmental challenges, including increased flood risks. Investing in this region will not only enhance community resilience but also prioritize environmental justice. At least 35 percent of the bond act’s funding is dedicated to benefit disadvantaged communities that face significant environmental challenges such as pollution and climate change.
Furthermore, Governor Kathy Hochul announced that $425 million would be made available for the next round of Water Infrastructure Improvement and Intermunicipal Grants funding, marking the first time these programs would receive support from the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Bond Act. This funding will be crucial in protecting water quality, assisting communities in adapting to climate change, building resiliency, creating green jobs, and encouraging sustainable practices. State agencies, local governments, and partners are encouraged to apply for these grants, with an application deadline of August 11.
To ensure that the funds from the bond act are maximized and benefit the Delaware River Basin, our organizations, Friends of the Upper Delaware River and the Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed, advocate for their investment in ways that leverage federal resources and prioritize underserved communities. Additionally, the state is seeking feedback on how the bond act can improve communities statewide. A survey is available for stakeholders and members of the public to share their ideas, and it will be open until the end of August. It is paramount that New Yorkers emphasize the importance of the Upper Basin’s role in our drinking water infrastructure.
Investing in the region will stimulate economic growth, make conservation projects accessible to all communities, and ensure that our valuable natural resources receive the attention they deserve. By prioritizing the health of the Upper Delaware River region, we ultimately benefit the entire state and watershed.
[Author bio: Jeff Skelding is the executive director of Friends of the Upper Delaware River, and Kelly Knutson serves as the director of the Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed.]
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