Public Comment Period Open to Address Eligibility Guidelines for Grants for Water Quality Improvement Projects

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) has opened a public review and comment period regarding eligibility guidelines for Water Quality Improvement Projects and Program Grants for Municipal Stormwater Projects. The comment period is open through April 19, 2024.

These guidelines are designed to support projects funded through the Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) grant program, which is administered under the Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022 (Bond Act). WQIP grants fund projects that improve water quality and aquatic habitat, promote flood risk reduction, enhance flood and climate resiliency, and protect drinking water sources. The guidelines will support funding for construction and the implementation of projects that fit designated criteria for municipal stormwater projects.

The Bond Act that funds these projects requires that no less than 35 percent of the financing be used for disadvantaged communities. However, the state’s ambitious goal is to use 40 percent of funding for those communities.

How do you know if you live in a Disadvantaged Community?

In this case, disadvantaged communities are defined and identified by the Climate Justice Working Group, which was established under New York’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA). The Group established the required and aspirational funding goals to address perceived inequity in the distribution of funding to disadvantaged communities for critical water improvement projects.

To see if your community is on the list, visit the State’s website. 

Public comments for the draft guidelines will be open until 5 p.m. Friday, April 19, 2024. Comments can be submitted by mail to Stephanie June, NYS DEC, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12223. Emails can be sent to Stephanie.June@dec.ny.gov, subject line (Bond Act). All other questions can be directed to 518-402-8179.

Walden will track updates to the guidelines. If you need help with stormwater systems, regulations, or developing projects to improve water quality, Walden can help. Our staff is experienced in working with organizations in both the private and municipal sectors. We can also help you with grant application and management. Contact us today at 516-980-5508 or info@walden-associates.com.