Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $24.3 million has been awarded to support 56 municipalities and not-for-profit organizations for park improvements, heritage area enhancements and historic preservation projects through Round XII of the Regional Economic Development Council Initiative. The grants from the Environmental Protection Fund are administered by the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

"Communities across our great state have felt and will continue to enjoy the benefits of these grants that will go towards improving quality of life, promoting tourism, and restoring local landmarks and waterfronts," Governor Hochul said. "These grants underscore our commitment to investing in regional strengths to transform our communities into places where people live, work, and will visit for generations to come."

"The Regional Economic Development Council initiative continues to generate new opportunities, investments, and economic development in New York State," said Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado. "Building a stronger New York means investing in regional priorities like parks and heritage areas that support community development efforts. Congratulations to these recipients from 32 counties across the Empire State."

The Environmental Protection Fund (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.

Funding for this program was included in Round XII of the Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) Initiative. The 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 from 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 XII awards that have been made can be found here.

Erik Kulleseid, Commissioner of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, said, "These grants will help enhance the environment, expand access to outdoor recreation, celebrate our diverse culture and improve the economic vitality of communities from one end of the state to another. Our agency looks forward to working with the grant recipients to make these exciting projects a success."

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.