NYS EFC accepting applications for $325 million in grants for critical water infrastructure projects

Applications due by June 14

New York State Environmental Facilities Corp. President and CEO Maureen A. Coleman announced the application period is open for $325 million in state grants for critical water infrastructure projects.

A press release stated, “The next round of the Water Infrastructure Improvement and Intermunicipal Grant programs delivers on Gov. Kathy Hochul’s clean water funding commitments announced in her 2024 State of the State address, which include a series of changes that benefit small, rural, and disadvantaged communities. This infusion of funds will continue to help make water infrastructure investments more affordable for local governments, strengthen resiliency, protect drinking water, and create jobs in the manufacturing, engineering, construction, plant operations, and related industry sectors.”

Coleman said, “State water grants are an essential element of Gov. Hochul’s comprehensive efforts to modernize aging infrastructure and uphold New Yorkers’ rights to safe drinking water and a clean, healthy environment. These investments will help communities undertake vital projects that safeguard public health, protect our abundant natural resources, and bolster local economies.”

Complete eligibility information and application materials are available on EFC’s website at www.efc.ny.gov/wiia, where local governments may also register for a March 4 webinar to learn more about this round of funding and how to apply. Check the website for dates of any additional webinars or other information that may be posted. Grant applications and required supporting documentation must be submitted by 5 p.m. June 14.

EFC administers the WIIA and IMG programs in coordination with the Department of Health. The state has awarded more than $2.4 billion in water infrastructure grants through EFC since 2015.

Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner and EFC Board Chair Basil Seggos said, “New York state continues to prioritize clean drinking water for all communities, and today’s availability of $325 million in new funding will be instrumental in supporting local projects to address emerging contaminants and other threats to public health and the environment. These investments and EFC’s ongoing assistance to smaller and disadvantaged communities in applying for funding will advance effective infrastructure improvements that bring long-lasting benefits to more New Yorkers.”

State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “A lack of financial resources should not be a barrier to one of the most fundamentally important elements of good health – clean water. We encourage municipalities to apply for this latest round of water infrastructure funding and to utilize EFC’s community assistance program for support.”

Any community that needs help with water infrastructure needs is encouraged to contact EFC at efc.ny.gov/CAT.