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  • New York. Adirondack Rail Trail Opens as Tupper Lake Station Upgrades Wrap

    New York. Adirondack Rail Trail Opens as Tupper Lake Station Upgrades Wrap

    —New York completed the final phase of the 34-mile Adirondack Rail Trail linking Lake Placid, Saranac Lake and Tupper Lake, and finished upgrades at the Adirondack Railroad’s Tupper Lake station. The free, year-round trail features a shallow grade and firm surface for hikers, cyclists, skiers and snowmobilers, with accessibility built in. State agencies DEC and OGS led design and construction, backed by nearly $40 million, including $13.1 million from the 2022 Environmental Bond Act. NYSDOT’s $13.5 million station project added a 550-foot platform with canopy, wheelchair lifts, baggage space for bikes and kayaks, and a new maintenance shed, complementing earlier rehabilitation of the 84-mile Remsen-to-Tupper rail segment. The package is pitched to boost Adirondack tourism, improve passenger rail connectivity and support New York’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” campaign.

    Governor Hochul Announces Completion of Recreation and Transportation Projects Supporting Year-Round Tourism in the Heart of the Adirondacks

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the completion of two major recreation and transportation projects that help showcase the beauty, accessibility and adventures available in the Adirondacks. Construction is complete on the third and final phase of the Adirondack Rail Trail, making the 34-mile, multi-use recreational corridor between Lake Placid and Tupper Lake available for all-season enjoyment. In addition, the train platform and maintenance shed project at the Adirondack Scenic Railroad’s Tupper Lake Rail Station is now complete. These transformational projects offer outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking improved passenger rail connectivity more opportunities to experience the Adirondacks.

    “The Adirondack Rail Trail and Tupper Lake Rail Station are linked by their long history and their even brighter future in welcoming New Yorkers and tourists to one of our country’s premier natural landscapes,” Governor Hochul said. “The completion of these recreational assets enables visitors to experience the awe of the Adirondacks, connect to nature, boost local economies, and ‘Get Offline, Get Outside’ with year-round activities for all ages and abilities.”

    The Adirondack Rail Trail is now open year-round, free of charge, for hikers, bikers, cross-country skiers and snowmobile enthusiasts and connect the communities of Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and Tupper Lake. The route provides visitors with the opportunity to enjoy the unique charm and amenities of the surrounding villages, hamlets, and communities while providing access to miles of breathtaking trails, remote natural habitats, numerous campsites, and abundant waterways in the center of the Adirondack Park. The 34-mile trail corridor has a shallow grade, wide tread, and a firm surface to make it accessible to people with disabilities.

    The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) manages and maintains the trail and the Office of General Services (OGS) led the trail design and construction throughout all three phases. Funding for the almost $40 million rail trail included $13.1 million from the 2022 Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act, in addition to capital investments from New York Works and the State’s Environmental Protection Fund. The Adirondack Rail Trail Association (ARTA) also assists DEC with trail maintenance, amenities, and stewardship through a Volunteer Stewardship Agreement with DEC.

    In 2020, the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) and DEC adopted a revised Unit Management Plan, which divided the Remsen to Lake Placid Travel Corridor into two segments – the rail trail and the rail corridor. As part of this plan, NYSDOT completed the track rehabilitation project in 2022 along the 84-mile Remsen to Tupper Lake segment for improved passenger rail service on the Adirondack Railroad.

    Work to transform the Rail Trail started in October 2020 when NYSDOT began work to remove rail infrastructure from the Tupper Lake to Lake Placid segment of the corridor. In March 2022, DEC and NYSDOT announced the transfer of jurisdiction to DEC, marking the formal completion of the rail removal phase and the start of the formal trail design and construction phase. The entire corridor remains open to winter snowmobiling managed under the New York State Snowmobile Association.

    Complementing the Rail Trail, the Adirondack Railroad is one of the longest active scenic railroads in the continental United States, providing visitors with stops in Old Forge/Thendara and Tupper Lake, where they can explore the scenic wonders of the Adirondacks from the comfort of a train, and disembark to explore the Adirondacks and the newly constructed trail sections including Tupper Lake. In 2023, the Adirondack Railroad provided the first passenger train service to Tupper Lake since the 1980 Winter Olympics. NYSDOT’s $13.5 million upgrade to the Tupper Lake Station, which began in February of 2024, included an 18-foot-wide by 550-foot-long low-level platform with a canopy and wheelchair lifts for accessibility and a baggage platform for loading bicycles and kayaks. A new maintenance shed will facilitate year-round maintenance of the locomotives and improved railroad operations well into the future.

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “The Adirondack Rail Trail is an amazing resource built from collaboration and creativity that is connecting all people to nature in all seasons for unique natural experiences. Through Governor Hochul’s leadership and investment, and through collaboration with our partner agencies, this project delivers for the Adirondack region as a whole, transforming communities, boosting tourism, and providing new connections with the treasures of the Adirondacks like never before.”

    New York State Office of General Services Commissioner Jeanette Moy said, “For walkers, hikers, bikers, snowmobilers, and cross-country skiers, the Adirondack Rail Trail is truly a one-of-a-kind, accessible recreational space. With this completion, New Yorkers and visitors to our state will have unparalleled opportunities to enjoy the stunning Adirondacks, from Lake Placid to Tupper Lake, year-round. OGS is proud to have worked with DEC and DOT under Governor Hochul’s leadership in designing and constructing this trail that connects communities, stimulating local economies, and fostering appreciation for New York’s natural beauty.”

    New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “With breathtaking scenery and unrivaled landscapes, the Adirondack Region is one of the great natural treasures of New York State that everyone should experience as often as possible. The completion of the Adirondack Rail Trail and the Tupper Lake Rail Station makes it easier to explore this wondrous region, and allows people to do so while leaving the car at home and taking the train or walking! Thanks to Governor Hochul’s steadfast support, the vision to connect New Yorkers to the outdoors is now a reality. The NYS Department of Transportation is proud to have played a role along with our state agency partners in bringing these landmark projects to completion for all to enjoy.”

    Adirondack Rail Trail Association Executive Director Julia Goren said, “The opening of the Adirondack Rail Trail marks the realization of a vision over a decade in the making. It connects our communities, drives our local economies, and provides a gateway for residents and visitors alike to experience the beauty and history of the region. We are grateful to Governor Hochul, the leadership of DEC, DOT, OGS, and the local municipal leaders who have believed in and supported this project. Together, we celebrate a dream realized, and a new chapter for our communities.”

    Adirondack Railway Preservation Society Board President Luke Irvine said, “The Adirondack Railroad is pleased to be the recipient of the wonderful new rail facility at Tupper Lake. This project has been several years in the making and it has been an amazing process to see it come off of paper and into reality. This is truly a modern well equipped facility which will greatly enhance the railroad operations on this line between Tupper Lake and Utica. Through this project our Governor and New York State Department of Transportation have shown their commitment to the success of this railroad and the communities in which it serves. The Adirondack Railroad also takes this opportunity to acknowledge its own commitment to be good stewards of this facility by offering unique rail experiences to Tupper Lake and the surrounding region whether it be on our trains or railbikes. We sincerely thank Governor Kathy Hochul for her support and determination to undertake this project, as well as our many partners at New York State Department of Transportation for their continued dedication in making it a reality.”

    Village of Tupper Lake Mayor Mary Fontana said, “The completion of the Rail Trail and the station is a milestone for Tupper Lake and the North Country. It connects our families and neighbors, draws visitors into our community, and strengthens our downtown and local businesses. This project celebrates our history while opening the door to new opportunities for recreation, tourism, and connection. We are proud to see Tupper Lake at the heart of it.”

    DEC is also continuing to restore the Saranac Lake Union Depot for public use and access at the site. The project is helping preserve the historic structure to offer historic interpretation and include a welcoming outdoor experience for the public and operations that complement the Adirondack Rail Trail. In addition, rail trail users should anticipate temporary detours, limited access, or obstructions at certain points of the trail through the month of October for truck and equipment access and signage placement. Up-to-date information on corridor conditions and a public use map are available on I Love New York’s website.

    These projects support Governor Hochul’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” campaign, encouraging New York State’s kids and families to put down their phones and computers, take a break from social media, enjoy recreation and outdoor social gatherings, and put their mental and physical health first. The trail and upgraded station provide an opportunity to participate in the newly announced Get Offline, Get Outside Challenge by providing a tool to inspire youth to engage in outdoor activities.

    October 4, 2025

    Albany, NY

    Sources: Governor.ny.gov , Big New York news BigNY.com
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  • Is the US a constitutional democracy?

    Is the US a constitutional democracy?

    While often categorized as a democracy, the United States is more accurately defined as a constitutional federal republic. What does this mean? “Constitutional” refers to the fact that government in the United States is based on a Constitution which is the supreme law of the United States. The Constitution not only provides the framework for how the federal and state governments are structured, but also places significant limits on their powers. “Federal” means that there is both a national government and governments of the 50 states. A “republic” is a form of government in which the people hold power, but elect representatives to exercise that power.

    Sources: ar.usembassy.gov

    By definition, a republic is a representative form of government that is ruled according to a charter, or constitution, and a democracy is a government that is ruled according
    to the will of the majority.
    Although these forms of government are often confused, they are quite different.
    The main difference between a republic and a democracy is the charter or constitution that limits power in a republic, often to protect the individual’s rights against the desires of the majority.

    https://www.cga.ct.gov

  • New York. Hochul Says $187 Million in Law-Enforcement, Counterterrorism Funds Restored After Trump Reversal

    New York. Hochul Says $187 Million in Law-Enforcement, Counterterrorism Funds Restored After Trump Reversal

    NY News Funds Restored

    New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said $187 million in law-enforcement and counterterrorism funding will be restored after President Trump reversed planned cuts.
    The governor said the move ensures the state has resources to support police, first responders and public-safety operations. “Because of our efforts, $187 million in critical funding will be restored,” she said, calling it a win for public safety and New Yorkers who rely on law enforcement to keep the state secure.

    Statement From Governor Kathy Hochul

    “From the moment these devastating cuts were announced, I made it clear that New York would not stand by while our law enforcement and counterterrorism operations were defunded.
    I’m glad President Trump heard our call and reversed course, ensuring our state has the resources necessary to support law enforcement and keep our families safe.

    “Because of our efforts, $187 million in critical funding will be restored — a victory for public safety and for every New Yorker who depends on our brave law enforcement and first responders to keep our state secure.”


    October 3, 2025

    Albany, NY

    Sources: Governor.ny.gov , Big New York news BigNY.com
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  • New York Tops National Mental-Health Rankings Amid Hochul’s $1 Billion Push

    New York Tops National Mental-Health Rankings Amid Hochul’s $1 Billion Push

    New York has climbed to No. 1 in Mental Health America’s “State of Mental Health in America” report, which analyzed 17 measures using 2022–2023 data, the period when Gov. Kathy Hochul launched a $1 billion overhaul of the state’s behavioral-health system. The state advanced from No. 8 (2023) to No. 4 (2024) and now leads both overall and in adult rankings, driven by gains in reducing youth suicidal ideation, lowering major depressive episodes among youth, and shrinking the share of uninsured adults with mental illness.
    New York added 985 psychiatric beds, expanded state-operated capacity, funded 39 Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics that have served 77,000-plus people in 2025, scaled Critical Time Intervention and INSET teams, grew ACT and Youth ACT teams, and increased specialized housing and school-based clinics. Albany also advanced youth protections—with distraction-free K–12 classrooms, the Safe for Kids Act and the New York Child Data Protection Act—positioning the state as a national model for accessible, community-based mental-health care.

    Governor Hochul Highlights State’s Ranking as National Leader in Mental Health

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that New York State has been recognized as a national leader in mental health based on a new report compiled with publicly available federal data. ‘The State of Mental Health in America’ ranked New York number one nationally when analyzing data from 17 common mental health measures using the data gathered in 2022 and 2023 – the year Governor Hochul launched her multi-billion-dollar investment to strengthen the state’s system of care.

    “These findings demonstrate that we remain on the right track in our concerted efforts to address the mental health crisis among children and adults,” Governor Hochul said. “While our work is far from finished, New York has become a national model when it comes to providing a range of support, care and treatment that residents need. By strengthening our mental health care system, we are giving people and families renewed hope and helping them onto the path to recovery so they can live and thrive in their communities.”

    New York’s combined scores in 17 categories ranked the state first nationally in the report, which is compiled annually by Mental Health America, a leading national nonprofit dedicated to the promotion of mental health. Previously, the state was ranked fourth in the nation in 2024 and eighth in 2023.

    The measures that had the largest effect on New York’s overall ranking were the state’s percentage of youth with serious thoughts of suicide; youth with a major depressive episode in the past year; and uninsured adults living with mental illness. Aside from being ranked first overall, New York also topped all other states in the report’s adult rankings, which include eight measures gauging the prevalence of mental illness and access to care among individuals over the age of 18.

    The data considered in the report coincide with the launch of Governor Hochul’s landmark initiative into strengthening New York State’s mental health care system. Her $1 billion plan in FY 2024 and investments made in subsequent budgets doubled down on improvements in suicide prevention, youth services, and other areas highlighted in the report.

    From adding inpatient capacity to dramatically expanding outpatient programs to creating thousands of new units of specialized housing and more, the state has taken bold measures to ensure all New Yorkers have access to these critical services — especially those individuals and families from previously underserved populations. Governor Hochul has particularly committed to improving youth mental health, as evidenced by her legislative initiatives to address the harmful impacts of social media and to eliminate the use of smartphones by students in K-12 public schools.

    New York State Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said, “The Mental Health in America report reflects the bold commitment Governor Hochul has made into mental health and the fantastic work that our state and provider workforce have undertaken to dramatically expand access to high-quality care. We are proud partners together and look forward to continuing as both an innovator and a national leader in mental health care.”

    Since Governor Hochul took office, New York State has added 985 psychiatric beds, including 610 beds that were brought back online at community-based hospitals. The Governor has also overseen the largest expansion of inpatient capacity at state-operated psychiatric centers, adding 375 new beds and 275 others in development.

    New York State now funds 39 Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics, which make it easier for New Yorkers to get into treatment and can help them avoid unnecessary hospital visits. These clinics provide mental health and substance use disorder services to anyone who walks in the door –regardless of whether they have insurance –and have served more than 77,000 recipients so far in 2025.

    OMH is also establishing 50 Critical Time Intervention teams in all areas of the state to provide care management services and support to help individuals during transitions in care, such as leaving inpatient settings. With the first 36 now funded, these teams will have the capacity to serve 3,630 New Yorkers.

    The state is also expanding Intensive and Sustained Engagement or ‘INSET’ teams, a voluntary, peer-led engagement approach to support individuals on their recovery journey at times and places that are convenient to them. OMH now funds five teams –including one focusing on the forensic population –operating in New York City, the Rochester area, Westchester, and on Long Island, with the capacity to collectively serve more than 300 individuals.

    The state has also aggressively expanded the Safe Options Support program, which has now helped permanently house 1,407 individuals, including nearly 180 in OMH-licensed housing. With the first teams launched in Spring 2022, the SOS program now has 31 teams, including ones canvassing all five boroughs of New York City, both counties on Long Island, and 19 additional counties across the state.

    New York State has also made regulatory changes to improve mental health, adopting new hospital admission and discharge regulations to provide a clear path toward ensuring the quality of care given to individuals experiencing a behavioral health crisis, and that thoughtful plans are crafted to connect those leaving emergency and inpatient care with community-based support. CTI teams are now in place to connect with individuals leaving inpatient care and ensure that their immediate needs are met and that they remain connected to community support.

    The state also adopted new network adequacy regulations to ensure New Yorkers with qualifying health insurance plans are provided timely access to critical behavioral health care. These changes are providing important consumer protections, including a requirement that plans post up-to-date and accurate lists of in-network providers on their websites, which will help to eliminate inaccurate or misleading directories.

    OMH has also aggressively expanded specialized housing, including 1,276 new units associated with Governor Hochul’s mental health initiative, with an additional 2,224 housing units that are under development. The units under development include community residence-single room occupancy units, supportive housing-single room occupancy units and short term transitional residential units –all designed to help New Yorkers living with mental illness to reside safely within their community.

    OMH has also expanded its Assertive Community Treatment or ‘ACT’ program, which now operates 112 teams with 30 additional ones in development, and the capacity to provide services to 9,584 individuals living with mental illness. These teams provide coverage in all counties statewide, allowing these New Yorkers to receive treatment within their community rather than more restrictive hospital settings.

    Governor Hochul also made a nation-leading commitment to protect youth mental health and promote student success in the digital age. As part of the FY 2026 State Budget, she secured a landmark agreement to create a statewide standard for distraction-free schools and eliminate smartphone use in all K-12 classrooms.

    In addition, Governor Hochul signed into law the Safe for Kids Act last year, requiring social media companies to restrict addictive feeds on their platforms for users under 18. She also signed the New York Child Data Protection Act, prohibiting online sites and connected devices from collecting, using, sharing, or selling personal data of anyone under the age of 18, unless they receive informed consent or unless doing so is strictly necessary for the purpose of the website.

    Governor Hochul’s focus on youth mental health also led to the creation of 10 new Youth Assertive Community Treatment teams to support young people with serious emotional disturbances who are either at risk of entering, or are returning home from high intensity services, such as inpatient settings or residential services. Youth ACT teams now total 20 –with 19 in development –and will operate in 31 counties, providing youth and family therapy, medication management, family and peer support, and skill-building.

    Governor Hochul also expanded school-based mental health clinics, which help students get a licensed mental health care provider in a familiar stigma-free setting on their school campus. Since funding this expansion last year, the state has added 255 new clinic satellites — including 84 in high-needs districts —to 1,265 that now exist statewide.

    New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham said, “Many individuals affected by mental health disorders are also impacted by co-occurring substance use disorders. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York has made great strides in expanding services across the state for all aspects of behavioral health, helping thousands of New Yorkers access the help and support that they need. This report is great recognition of the strides we are making, and we look forward to collaborating with our partners on continued expansions to these services as we build a healthier New York State for all.”

    State Senator Samra G. Brouk said, “As Chair of the Senate Mental Health Committee, I am proud to see that New York State has been ranked as a leader in the “State of Mental Health in America” report. This is further evidence that voluntary services, such as INSET teams, Critical Time Intervention teams; Safe Options Support programs, and other impactful programs have the power to help individuals with serious mental health needs. By continuing this momentum and investing in Daniel’s Law funding, we can reach more individuals experiencing mental health crises and keep our communities safe. I applaud Governor Hochul for investing in mental health initiatives in New York State to ensure that our residents receive the care they deserve.”

    Assemblymember JoAnn Simon said, “It’s great to see New York recognized as a national leader in mental health, reflecting the progress we have made investing in our families and communities and expanding care. I look forward to working with Governor Hochul to expand these investments and build on this momentum to ensure that every New Yorker can get the help they need, when they need it.”

    Mental Health Association of New York Chief Executive Officer Glenn Liebman said, “Our national organization, Mental Health America, confirms what we already know –that New York State is a leader in mental health services and support. Under Governor Hochul and Commissioner Sullivan’s leadership, New York leads the way in school and teen mental health, prevention, crisis services, innovative programming, suicide prevention and mental health parity. While there is always more that needs to be done, we are very lucky in New York to have the commitment, leadership, and vision to make life better for those with mental health issues and their loved ones.”

    October 3, 2025

    Albany, NY

    Sources: Governor.ny.gov , Big New York news BigNY.com
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  • OMNY System upgrade

    OMNY System upgrade

    During the weekend of October 3, OMNY will undergo a planned system upgrade that will improve performance and enhance the experience for all of our tap-and-ride customers using either bank cards or OMNY cards. The upgrade is being made in preparation for absorbing all remaining MetroCard users as they transition over to the tap-and-ride system and will prevent future trip and charge processing delays like those experienced over the summer.

    How this impacts you

    The upgrade is expected to take place between 10 p.m. on Friday, October 3 and 7 p.m. on Sunday, October 5. During this upgrade window, you can still tap at all OMNY readers on subways and buses to pay the fare.

    However, during the upgrade window, certain features and services will not be available, so please be aware of the following:

    For customers tapping with an OMNY card

    You will not be able to buy or reload OMNY cards during the upgrade window. This means there will be no sales or value loads through OMNY vending machines, at retail locations, online at OMNY.info, over the phone or in-person at Customer Service Centers in stations. Please plan ahead by loading your OMNY card for the weekend before 7 p.m. on Friday.

     While your taps will still be accepted during the upgrade window, the actual associated charges to your OMNY card will not be processed right away. Charges will be processed after the upgrade is completed. If you use up your stored value prior to completion of the upgrade, you will need to load more value after the upgrade is completed in order to continue traveling with your card. Please allow an additional day or two for the charges to your OMNY card to settle.

    As an alternative, you can tap and ride with your bank card in your mobile wallet or a physical credit or debit card. Learn how here.

    For customers tapping with a mobile wallet or physical credit/debit card

    While your taps will still be accepted during the upgrade window, you will not see the actual associated charges for your fare right away, even if they appear in your mobile wallet app. Charges will be processed after the upgrade is completed. Please allow an additional day or two for the charges to your bank card to settle.

    For all customers

    Other services unavailable during the upgrade window include online trip and charge history information, access to your online OMNY account, and some in-person services for Reduced-Fare customers at MTA Customer Service Centers.

    Please rest assured that you will not be overcharged while the system catches up after the upgrade is completed. Your free transfers will be free, along with any free rides earned during your 7-day fare cap period.

    Please allow an additional day or two for all taps and fare payments from the upgrade window to be fully processed. If after the upgrade is completed you are unsure you’ve been charged correctly, or simply wish to review your taps, you can do so at omny.info/trip-history or by signing into your OMNY account.

    If you still have concerns after checking your trip and charge history online, agents will be standing by at the OMNY Call Center at 877-789-6669.

    Sources: omny.info/system-upgrade ,
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  • Bilt to Open Manhattan Headquarters, Add 625 Jobs in $50 Million R&D Push

    Bilt to Open Manhattan Headquarters, Add 625 Jobs in $50 Million R&D Push

    Bilt, the housing and neighborhood commerce fintech, signed a 15-year lease for a 58,000-square-foot headquarters at 837 Washington Street in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District, a move expected to create 625 high-paying jobs while retaining more than 200 staff. Backed by up to $6.25 million in performance-based Excelsior Jobs Program tax credits, the company plans more than $50 million in R&D to enhance payments, rewards, AI and security, with the renovated site slated to open in early 2026. Founded in 2019 and launched in 2021, Bilt reports over five million members, free rent-reporting to build credit, and plans to expand into mortgage-related rewards; the company has raised $850 million, is valued above $10.75 billion, and says it is on track to process more than $100 billion in housing-related spending annually while driving over $10 billion in purchases to a network of 40,000 merchants.

    Governor Hochul Announces Fintech Leader Bilt to Expand With New Manhattan Headquarters, Creating Over 600 Jobs

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that Bilt, a housing and neighborhood commerce platform, will establish its new headquarters at 837 Washington Street in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District under a 15-year lease. The 58,000-square-foot space will be fully renovated to accommodate the company’s growth, creating 625 new jobs while retaining more than 200 existing employees. Supported by up to $6.25 million in performance-based Excelsior Jobs Program tax credits from Empire State Development, the project includes more than $50 million in research and development investment to advance Bilt’s fintech products, payment systems and consumer engagement tools.

    “New York is the nation’s undisputed leader in finance and technology, and Bilt’s decision to grow and develop here underscores the unmatched talent, energy and opportunity that only New York can offer,” Governor Hochul said. “Bilt’s expansion and long-term commitment reflect the kind of homegrown innovation we are proud to support. Their success story is a reminder that when companies invest in New York, they not only strengthen our communities but also help shape the future of technology and economic growth across the state.”

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Bilt’s expansion represents the kind of forward-thinking investment that strengthens New York’s position as the global capital of fintech innovation. By choosing to grow in New York and create hundreds of high-paying jobs, Bilt is demonstrating confidence in our state’s unparalleled talent pool and business ecosystem. Empire State Development is committed to ensuring that companies like Bilt can continue to innovate, expand and generate lasting benefits for communities across the state.”

    Bilt Founder and CEO Ankur Jain said, “New York City is where Bilt was born, and it’s where we’ll continue to grow. This 15-year commitment to the Meatpacking District represents our unwavering belief in New York as the epicenter of innovation and the perfect place to build an American-made platform that connects people to rewarding experiences in their homes and neighborhoods. There’s no better neighborhood than the Meatpacking District to showcase what happens when commerce, community and culture come together.”

    Founded in 2019 and launched in 2021, Bilt has grown into the nation’s largest housing and neighborhood commerce platform, built and operated in New York City. The company serves more than five million members nationwide, and its platform — which includes a suite of tools for rent payments, dining, travel and neighborhood commerce — enables consumers to earn rewards on everyday housing and lifestyle expenses.

    The company has raised over $850 million in venture capital, reached a valuation of over $10.75 billion, and is on track to process more than $100 billion annually in housing-related spending while driving over $10 billion annually in spending to a network of over 40,000 neighborhood merchants including fitness studios, restaurants and pharmacies.

    Bilt offers free rent reporting capabilities that enable tenants to build their credit history simply by paying their rent on time, and with plans to soon expand into mortgage-related rewards and benefits, the company is creating a path for both renters and homeowners to strengthen their financial futures while engaging in Bilt’s broader rewards ecosystem.

    Bilt, which currently operates from its Lower Manhattan office, will lease approximately 58,000 square feet at 837 Washington Street, transforming a vacant building into a state-of-the-art headquarters expected to open in early 2026 following extensive renovations. The new facility will support the company’s expanding operations in artificial intelligence, engineering, product development, data analytics and partnership integration, while anchoring more than $50 million in research and development investment in New York. These R&D efforts will drive advances in payment processing, rewards technology, platform scalability and secure, privacy-focused financial transactions.

    Bilt’s decision to expand in Manhattan highlights the strength of New York City’s fintech sector and the broader innovation economy. With access to world-class talent, deep pools of capital, leading research institutions and an unmatched entrepreneurial spirit, New York offers the ideal environment for companies to scale and succeed. Expansions by high-growth firms like Figma, Rippling and Rokt, alongside new investments from global leaders across technology and finance, continue to reinforce this momentum. By choosing to grow here, Bilt is contributing to New York’s position as a premier destination for fintech innovation—where breakthrough companies build the technologies and platforms that are reshaping how consumers engage with financial services.

    Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York’s fintech sector has experienced remarkable growth, cementing the state’s position as a national hub for innovation and financial technology. Since, 2021, fintech jobs in New York State have grown by 28 percent — a rate 14 times faster than the national average.

    Meatpacking District Management Association Executive Director Jeffrey LeFrancois said, “We are thrilled to welcome Bilt to the Meatpacking District, a tremendous investment that underscores our neighborhood’s strength as a hub of innovation, tech, and commerce. This commitment will bring hundreds of high-quality jobs while breathing new life into an iconic neighborhood building. Thank you to Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for supporting this investment through the Excelsior Jobs Program, helping the Meatpacking District and New York continue to thrive.”

    New York City Councilmember Erik Bottcher said, “We are thrilled to welcome Bilt’s new headquarters to the Meatpacking District. This investment not only brings hundreds of good jobs to our community, but also breathes new life into a historic building while strengthening New York City’s role as a global leader in fintech innovation.”

    October 2, 2025

    Albany, NY

    Sources: Governor.ny.gov , Big New York news
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  • New York Opens 2026–27 FAFSA, TAP and STEM Aid Applications

    New York Opens 2026–27 FAFSA, TAP and STEM Aid Applications

    new york news hochul 2025 free edu

    .—New York on Oct. 2 opened applications for the 2026–27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid, the state’s Tuition Assistance Program and the NYS STEM Incentive Program, part of a push to expand college affordability with roughly $800 million in annual TAP awards and broadened eligibility that has already brought aid to nearly 38,000 newly eligible students. FAFSA remains the gateway to Pell Grants, Work-Study and state programs; a “Universal FAFSA” law has lifted completions about 12%, placing the state sixth nationally.
    The STEM scholarship covers SUNY/CUNY tuition for students graduating in the top 10% who commit to five years of STEM work in New York. Non-citizen students may qualify via the DREAM Act or an Alternate Eligibility Pathway. Deadlines: FAFSA/TAP for 2026–27 run through June 30, 2027; TAP for 2025–26 closes June 30, 2026; STEM applications are due Aug. 15, 2026.

    Governor Hochul Announces the Opening of Key New York State College Aid Applications for the 2026-27 Academic Year

    NYS Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) and STEM Incentive Program Applications Now Being Accepted

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that applications are now open for the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP), and the NYS Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Incentive Program for the 2026-27 academic year. Additionally, the 2026–27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now available, providing students with access to critical federal resources. Together, these programs provide a powerful combination of state and federal support to help New York students and families make higher education more affordable and accessible.

    “Programs like TAP and the STEM Incentive Program are vital in providing New York students with the financial support and opportunities they need to pursue higher education and achieve their dreams,” Governor Hochul said. “Equally important is completing the FAFSA, which opens the door to essential federal financial aid. These programs help students to overcome financial barriers, access quality education, and create a stronger future for themselves and their communities.”

    NYS Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)
    With approximately $800 million awarded each year, TAP is one of the most robust need-based financial aid programs in the nation. Governor Hochul’s recent historic expansions have made more students eligible to receive TAP, and New York is already seeing the results. Nearly 38,000 students who have become newly eligible are now receiving awards, contributing to more than $71 million in aid to students and their families. Together with the increased income thresholds and expanded access for part-time and non-degree students, New York is opening doors of opportunity to help ensure more residents can pursue higher education with the financial support they need to succeed.

    NYS STEM Incentive Program
    The NYS STEM Incentive Program provides scholarships that cover the cost of tuition to eligible students who are in the top 10 percent of high school graduates who pursue STEM degrees at SUNY or CUNY colleges. Recipients must commit to working in a STEM field in New York State for five years after graduation, helping to strengthen New York in critical industries. Learn more or apply for STEM here.

    Students who do not meet citizenship and residency requirements may still qualify for New York State financial aid through alternate pathways, such as the Senator José Peralta New York State DREAM Act or the Alternate Eligibility Pathway. Learn more about the available options by visiting the Applying for Aid webpage.

    Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
    Completing the FAFSA is one of the most important steps for students planning to attend college. The application determines eligibility for federal aid, including the Pell Grant, Federal Work-Study, and low-interest federal student loans, and is also used to help determine eligibility for state programs such as TAP, Excelsior, and STEM.

    To ensure New York students aren’t missing out on hundreds of millions in federal financial aid, Governor Hochul introduced the Universal FAFSA Completion legislation, which requires graduating high school seniors to complete the application. This landmark initiative is helping students access the financial aid they qualify for, making higher education more affordable and accessible for students and their families. Since enacting, completions have increased by nearly 12% throughout the state, making New York State sixth in the nation for FAFSA completions.

    New York State Higher Education Services Corporation President Dr. Guillermo Linares said, “HESC’s mission is to ensure that higher education remains within reach for every student in New York. With TAP, the STEM Incentive Program, and the FAFSA now open, students have more opportunities to secure the financial support they need. By completing these applications, families can reduce the burden of college costs and help students pursue their dreams.”

    State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky said, “TAP and STEM programs help students go to college who otherwise couldn’t afford it. With FAFSA completions up and more middle-class families eligible for TAP, New York is proving that higher education can be both excellent and affordable. These are families that would have likely sent their kids to school out of state. The improvements to TAP and STEM are continuing to help students in all sectors of higher education across the state.”

    Assemblymember Alicia L. Hyndman said, “Expanding access to higher education is one of the most meaningful investments we can make in our young people and in the future of New York. Thanks to the NYS Assembly for the expansion of the Tuition Assistance Program, more families—including nearly 38,000 newly eligible students—are receiving the support they need to pursue a college degree. With applications now open for TAP, the STEM Incentive Program, and FAFSA, students in Queens and across the state have greater access to vital financial aid. I am proud to support initiatives that reduce financial barriers and ensure every student has the opportunity to achieve their full potential.”

    State University of New York Chancellor John B. King Jr. said, “There is a place at SUNY for every New Yorker, and by completing FAFSA, TAP, and other financial aid applications, prospective students can take an essential step in making an affordable and excellent higher education a reality. Thanks to the SUNY FAFSA Completion Corps, online and in-person FAFSA completion events, and other efforts to support Governor Hochul’s Universal FAFSA law, more New York students are able to take advantage of this empowering opportunity. SUNY is proud to join Governor Hochul in taking action to ensure students and their families are informed about all of their financial aid options.”

    City University of New York Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez said, “CUNY students qualify for many state financial aid programs but often fail to apply, depriving themselves of much-needed resources to complete their degree. With the opening of the application period for the 2026-27 school year, we urge all New Yorkers to apply for aid to realize their college dreams and graduate debt-free. At CUNY, we have dedicated resources available to help guide them through the process.”

    New York State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa said, “It’s never too early for students, parents, and families to financially plan for the future, especially when it comes to education. For New York State students considering attending college next fall, now is the time to explore the resources available to help manage the cost of higher education. By completing the FAFSA and applying for state aid—such as TAP and the STEM Incentive Program—students can unlock new opportunities and build a strong foundation for academic success.”

    Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities President Lola W. Brabham said, “The Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities is deeply committed to ensuring that every student has the resources they need to succeed. With the opening of applications for TAP, STEM scholarships, and the FAFSA, families across the state gain access to critical support that makes higher education more affordable and attainable. The Commission applauds Governor Hochul’s leadership in expanding opportunity and reducing barriers for New York students.”

    New York’s Association of Private Colleges President Donna Stelling-Gurnett said, “From advocating for all students to have access to TAP to promoting important resources that will help break down barriers and open doors, APC remains committed to working with our partners to ensure higher education is more affordable and accessible for students and their families. All New Yorkers should have the opportunity to pursue their dreams, and we encourage prospective students to explore the state and federal support available to help get them on the right path.”

    Students applying for the 2026–27 academic year are encouraged to submit their financial aid applications as soon as possible. The 2026–27 FAFSA and New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) applications are open until June 30, 2027. Those seeking TAP assistance for the current 2025–26 academic year must submit their applications by June 30, 2026.

    Students interested in the NYS STEM Incentive Program for the 2026–27 academic year must apply by August 15, 2026.

    For detailed information regarding eligibility, application guidelines, and additional resources, students and families are encouraged to visit the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) website at hesc.ny.gov.

    October 2, 2025

    Albany, NY

    Sources: Governor.ny.gov , Big New York news BigNY.com
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  • Governor Hochul Appoints Kathy Moser as Acting Commissioner of New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

    Governor Hochul Appoints Kathy Moser as Acting Commissioner of New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

    Governor Kathy Hochul appointed conservation leader Kathy Moser to serve as Acting Commissioner of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (NYS Parks), pending State Senate confirmation next year. Moser—formerly Chief Conservation & Policy Officer at the Open Space Institute and a past Deputy Commissioner at the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation—will oversee more than 250 parks, historic sites, trails, golf courses, and boat launches that drew a record 88 million visits in 2024. Aligned with Hochul’s focus on mental health, outdoor access, and environmental stewardship, Moser pledged to promote and protect New York’s parks system, a major statewide tourism and economic driver. A Duke University–trained botanist and forest productivity expert, Peace Corps alum, and fluent Spanish speaker, Moser brings decades of leadership at OSI, DEC, World Wildlife Fund, and The Nature Conservancy to guide NYS Parks into the future.

    Governor Hochul Appoints Kathy Moser to Serve As Acting Commissioner of the New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced her appointment of Kathy Moser to serve as Acting Commissioner of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. Moser will lead the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation in an acting role as she awaits confirmation by the New York State Senate next year.

    “Kathy Moser has the needed background, experience and commitment to public lands to lead New York’s Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation,” Governor Hochul said. “I want New Yorkers to get offline and get outside because we know nature has the ability to improve one’s mental health and overall wellbeing. I know Kathy understands this critical intersection of my policies to improve New Yorkers’ quality of life and environmental stewardship. This makes her the ideal person to lead this critical agency into the future.”

    With a mission to provide safe and enjoyable recreational opportunities for all New York State residents and visitors and to serve as responsible stewards of the state’s natural, historic and cultural resources, the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more. The Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation sites drew a record 88 million visits in 2024.

    Acting Commissioner of the Office Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Kathy Moser said, “I appreciate the trust Governor Hochul is showing in me to lead this vital agency. I look forward to working with our dedicated team in promoting and protecting our beautiful state parks, campsites, and historic landmarks. Our vast system not only provides affordable relief for New Yorkers looking to take advantage of the outdoors or explore our historic treasures but is an economic driver by attracting tourists from across the country and world.”

    Acting Commissioner Moser most recently has been Chief Conservation and Policy Officer at the Open Space Institute (OSI), an East Coast land trust based in New York. Acting Commissioner Moser directed OSI’s Parks, Stewardship and Government Relations programs. Before taking on the role in June 2020, she served as OSI’s Senior Vice President of Parks and Policy.

    Prior to OSI, she was appointed Deputy Commissioner for Natural Resources at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) in December 2011. She directed DEC’s portfolio in Lands and Forests, Fish and Wildlife, and Marine Resources.

    Acting Commissioner Moser has also worked as Managing Director for Strategic Initiatives at World Wildlife Fund and held various senior positions at The Nature Conservancy in New York State (Acting State Director) and in their International Program (Regional Director for Central America) from 1992 to 2009.

    She has also been a board member for the Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy and New York League of Conservation Voters (Capital District).

    Acting Commissioner Moser has her undergraduate degree in botany and master’s degree in forest productivity, both from Duke University. She served in the Peace Corps in Honduras and is fluent in Spanish.

    Acting Commissioner Moser is married with three daughters, lives in Albany, and can be found early in the morning rowing and bird watching on the Hudson River.

    October 1, 2025

    Albany, NY

    Sources: Governor.ny.gov , Big New York news
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  • New York City to Receive $48 Million From Purdue Pharma–Sackler $7.4 Billion Settlement

    New York City to Receive $48 Million From Purdue Pharma–Sackler $7.4 Billion Settlement

    New York City said it will participate in a proposed $7.4 billion settlement with Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family, steering about $48 million to the five boroughs to combat opioid harms. The deal—stemming from litigation launched in 2017—combines $6.5 billion from certain Sackler family members and an expected $900 million from Purdue’s bankruptcy estate pending court approval later this fall. City officials said the funds build on roughly $190 million already recovered and are projected to push total opioid-related proceeds to more than $550 million by 2041, supporting prevention, harm-reduction, and treatment efforts across DOHMH, NYC Health + Hospitals, and the Office of Chief Medical Examiner. The Adams administration has ramped opioid spending to about $50 million annually as overdose deaths showed improvement in late 2024.
    New Yorkers can call or text 988 for 24/7 support.

    City of New York Takes Steps Toward Recovering Approximately $48 Million From Opioid Manufacturer in Ongoing Litigation to Bring Closure to Communities Affected by Opioid Crises

    – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Corporation Counsel Muriel Goode-Trufant today announced the city’s commitment to participate in a new proposed settlement with Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family that would bring approximately $48 million to the five boroughs and, more importantly, closure to the communities torn apart by the opioid crisis. The settlement is the result of litigation brought, beginning in 2017, by the city, numerous state attorneys general, and several thousand subdivisions across the country to address the harms caused by the opioid crises. The total settlement amount is expected to be approximately $7.4 billion, including $4.5 billion for state and local governments, of which approximately $48 million will go to the City of New York. The settlement would combine an agreement with certain members of the Sackler family to pay $6.5 billion and an anticipated contribution from the bankruptcy estate of Purdue Pharma, expected to be $900 million pending approval from the bankruptcy court on the proposed bankruptcy plan later this fall. Purdue Pharma and certain members of the Sackler family were at the heart of a scheme to misleadingly market prescription opioids as safe and effective for long-term chronic pain management, contributing greatly to the nationwide opioid crisis.

    “The opioid crisis stole thousands of lives, tore apart countless communities, and devastated families across our city and the rest of the nation, and while nothing can replace all that we lost, we will never stop fighting until we bring justice to communities devastated by this crisis,” said Mayor Adams. “At the heart of the scheme to hook Americans on opioids were the Sackler family and their company, Purdue Pharma, and the potential for this $7.4 billion settlement will serve as an example of how New Yorkers can trust us to always hold those with power accountable when they break the law and harm our citizens. I thank Corporation Counsel Goode-Trufant and the Law Department for their role in this settlement and for helping to ensure we do what we can to help make New Yorkers whole again.”

    “This settlement will represent a major milestone in the city’s longstanding legal effort to hold manufacturers and distributors of prescription opioids accountable for their role in the city’s deadly opioid epidemic,” said Corporation Counsel Muriel Goode-Trufant. “The opioid crisis resulted in a tremendous human and financial cost to the city. This $48 million settlement adds to the hundreds of millions of dollars we have already worked to recover from irresponsible drug companies. I commend all the dedicated individuals on the city’s legal team for their work in bringing about this outstanding result.”

    Today’s announcement builds on the work the city has done to bring justice to the victims and families of the opioid epidemic. In January 2018, the City of New York sued manufacturers and distributors of prescription opioids to remedy the harms caused within the city by the misleading marketing and improper distribution of these drugs. New York Attorney General Letitia James filed a similar lawsuit in March 2019. Settlements reached by both the city and the state, as well as a court victory by Attorney General James, have provided the City of New York alone with nearly $190 million as of the end of Fiscal Year 2025, which, with this new settlement, is expected to grow to a total of more than $550 million by 2041. In April 2022, Mayor Adams and Attorney General James announced allocations for the first of hundreds of millions of dollars coming to New York City to combat the opioid crisis. In September 2024, Mayor Adams announced city funding will ramp up to an annual $50 million for opioid prevention and treatment.

    Recently, Mayor Adams announced the third quarter of 2024 saw the lowest number of overdose deaths in New York City in a single quarter since 2020. In 2023, New York City saw a slight decline for the first time, since 2018, in overdose deaths. 

    Ongoing funds from opioid settlements have supported new and expanded activities at New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), NYC Health + Hospitals, and the New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner that collectively aim to reduce opioid overdose deaths through harm reduction, preventive, and treatment strategies.

    Funds from opioid settlements through DOHMH have supported wraparound services for syringe service programs, including on-site medical care, connections to health care and social services, and support for basic needs. Between July 2024 and April 2025, syringe service programs that operate Overdose Prevention Centers provided more than 38,000 harm reduction services to approximately 6,600 participants, reducing the risk of overdose and infectious disease and providing referrals to treatment and other health and social services. In 2023, the Adams administration also allocated $3 million to eight providers on Staten Island through a request for proposal to directly support the expansion of buprenorphine treatment, outreach and engagement, and care navigation services in the borough. Procurement to expand the number of hospitals participating in DOHMH’s emergency department-based nonfatal opioid overdose response program, called Relay, remains ongoing.

    Since beginning to receive funding through opioid settlements, NYC Health + Hospitals has had over 9,800 patient engagements with expanded substance use services at Street Health Outreach and Wellness vans, nearly 80,000 encounters with patients in emergency departments with addiction services provided by the Emergency Department Leads program, and has successfully launched a cutting-edge addiction simulation training for emergency department prescribers. Additionally, NYC Health + Hospitals has provided comprehensive addiction consultations at over 23,000 inpatient admissions through the Consult for Addiction Treatment and Care in Hospitals program. Further, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner’s Drug Intelligence and Intervention Group program has offered support services to more than 2,000 individuals following the death of a loved one from an overdose. 

    Today’s investment and all of the actions taken by Mayor Adams and the Adams administration to prevent overdose deaths also underscore the administration’s efforts to improve and extend the average lifespan of all New Yorkers through “HealthyNYC” to 83 years by 2030. HealthyNYC sets ambitious targets to address the greatest drivers of premature death, including chronic and diet-related diseases, screenable cancers, overdose, suicide, maternal mortality, violence, and COVID-19.

    New Yorkers looking to access substance use services can call or text 988 for free, confidential support 24/7. Resources can also be found on the “NYC HealthMap” and on DOHMH’s website.

    Today’s announcement builds on Mayor Adams’ “End the Culture of Anything Goes” campaign, which highlights the work the administration has done to date to change the culture and laws that prevented people with severe mental illness from getting the help they needed, while simultaneously making the investments necessary to support outreach, harm reduction, wraparound services, and housing — all in an effort to make lasting impacts in lives and communities. Mayor Adams is bringing the same energy and approach that proved to be successful in carving a new path to help people with severe mental illness to address other health crises, like drug addiction, playing out on city streets, and recently laid out plans to realize that vision by connecting those suffering with treatment.

    September 30, 2025 Manhattan, New York

    Sources: nyc.gov , Big New York news BigNY.com
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  • New York. Hochul Drops Record $25M to Help Farmers Guard Waterways, Touts 2022 Bond Act Boost

    New York. Hochul Drops Record $25M to Help Farmers Guard Waterways, Touts 2022 Bond Act Boost

    Hochul Drops Record $25M to Help NY Farmers Guard Waterways, Touts 2022 Bond Act Boost One-Paragraph Summary (NY Post Style) Gov. Kathy Hochul is cutting a $25 million check—the biggest single-round payout yet—to help New York farmers keep muck out of rivers and lakes, tapping the state’s Environmental Protection Fund and, for the first time, cash from the voter-approved 2022 Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Bond Act. The money fuels 50 projects in 25 counties, from giant manure-storage upgrades like a 1.4-million-gallon system at Van Patten Farms to stream buffers and cover crops—moves Albany says will clamp down on runoff, protect drinking water and keep farms competitive. Officials brag the program has steered over $250 million to on-farm conservation over three decades, with more green bucks on the way for water infrastructure and climate resilience.

    Gov. Kathy Hochul is cutting a $25 million check—the biggest single-round payout yet—to help New York farmers keep muck out of rivers and lakes, tapping the state’s Environmental Protection Fund and, for the first time, cash from the voter-approved 2022 Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Bond Act. The money fuels 50 projects in 25 counties, from giant manure-storage upgrades like a 1.4-million-gallon system at Van Patten Farms to stream buffers and cover crops—moves Albany says will clamp down on runoff, protect drinking water and keep farms competitive. Officials brag the program has steered over $250 million to on-farm conservation over three decades, with more green bucks on the way for water infrastructure and climate resilience.

    Governor Hochul Announces $25 Million Awarded to Help Farmers Protect Water Quality

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that $25 million has been awarded to help New York’s farmers support agricultural water quality conservation projects. This is a record level of funding awarded in any one round of the State’s Agricultural Nonpoint Source Pollution Abatement and Control Program (Ag Nonpoint), which is being provided through the Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) and, for the first time, the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act.

    “By tapping into our Bond Act funding, we are now able to expand our reach and support even more on-farm projects across the State through our Ag Nonpoint program,” Governor Hochul said. “Our farmers care deeply for the land they work, so it’s critical we provide them with the resources they need and deserve to safeguard our waterways while protecting our communities and our natural resources from climate change.”

    The announcement was made today at a special event held by State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball and Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton at Van Patten Farms in Preble, Cortland County. The Cortland County Soil and Water Conservation District will help the farm construct a 1.4-million-gallon nutrient storage and transfer system, which will advance nutrient recycling practices for crop production and water quality in the Tioughnioga River Watershed. The Van Patten Farm, through the District, is receiving funding from the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act to support implementation of the project. In total, 50 projects were funded in 25 counties across the State through Round 30 of the Ag Nonpoint Program.

    New York State Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “Our Ag Nonpoint program has long been a well-known and robust resource to our farmers for three decades, helping our farmers to implement best practices that will conserve water and protect our waterways. Now, with an infusion of funding from the Bond Act, we are able to grow the program, investing in projects that will not only ensure the health of our environment but will also help ensure farms can remain competitive, profitable, and sustainable.”

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership, this latest record investment to protect water quality through the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act and the Environmental Protection Fund will help make it more affordable for farmers to implement effective environmental strategies. Today’s $25 million strengthens DEC’s ongoing partnerships with State Agriculture, local Soil and Water Conservation Districts, and farmers to help prevent water pollution while also helping our agriculture economy thrive.”

    The Ag Nonpoint Program provides funding to projects that focus on either environmental planning or the implementation of best management practice systems to protect New York’s watersheds. Projects include conservation measures, such as nutrient management through manure storage, vegetative buffers along streams, and conservation cover crops.

    Cortland County Soil and Water Conservation District Manager Amanda Barber said, “Conservation and water quality improvement practices are important for farm viability and environmental health. We are fortunate to have the support of the state and the Ag Nonpoint Source grant program to help fund conservation work on our local farms.”

    Van Patten Farms, LLC. Co-Owner Steve Van Patten said, “Investments in environmental stewardship are important for the future of our farm. The Ag Nonpoint Source grant will help us improve our manure management and better utilize manure nutrients on the farm. We feel fortunate to have Soil and Water Conservation Districts supporting our efforts to improve our farm while protecting water quality for our community.”

    A regional breakdown of funding is listed below. The complete list of awarded projects can be found here.

    Western New York – $2,686,922

    • $509,572 was awarded to the Allegany County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with four farms in the Genesee River Watershed (Bond Act).
    • $910,075 was awarded to the Cattaraugus County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Cattaraugus Creek Watershed (EPF).
    • $1,267,275 was awarded to the Chautauqua County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with two farms in the Conewango Creek Watershed (EPF).

    Finger Lakes – $7,862,133

    • $1,936,624 was awarded to the Ontario County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with six farms in the Upper Genesee Watershed (Bond Act and EPF).
    • $533,330 was awarded to the Seneca County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with four farms in the Cayuga Lake Watershed (EPF).
    • $184,745 was awarded to the Wayne County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with two farms in the Oak Orchard-Twelvemile Watershed and Lake Ontario Watershed (Bond Act).
    • $4,582,434 was awarded to the Wyoming County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Genesee River Watershed (Bond Act and EPF), Niagara River Watershed (Bond Act), and Buffalo-Eighteenmile Watershed (Bond Act and EPF).
    • $625,000 was awarded to the Yates County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with 13 farms in the Keuka Lake Watershed (EPF).

    Southern Tier – $4,592,411

    • $300,375 was awarded to the Chenango County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Upper Susquehanna River Watershed (Bond Act).
    • $1,534,136 was awarded to the Delaware County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with three farms in the Delaware River Watershed (EPF) and Upper Susquehanna River Watershed (Bond Act).
    • $288,460 was awarded to the Tioga County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with five farms in the Owego-Wappasening Watershed (EPF) and Upper Susquehanna Watershed (Bond Act).
    • $2,469,440 was awarded to Tompkins County Soil & Water Conservation District to work with two farms in the Owasco Lake Watershed (Bond Act and EPF).

    Central New York – $5,527,147

    • $1,820,100 was awarded to the Cortland County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with three farms in the Otisco Lake Watershed (Bond Act), Tioughnioga River Watershed (Bond Act), and Lower East Branch Tioughnioga River Watershed (EPF).
    • $797,391 was awarded to the Cayuga County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with 12 farms in the Cayuga Lake Watershed (EPF).
    • $1,010,440 was awarded to the Madison County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with 19 farms in the Chenango River Watershed (EPF) and Tioughnioga River Watershed (EPF).
    • $1,899,216 was awarded to the Onondaga County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with six farms in the Onondaga Lake Watershed (EPF), Chenango River Watershed (Bond Act), Skaneateles Lake Watershed (Bond Act), and Fabius Brook Watershed (Bond Act).

    Mohawk Valley – $1,504,141

    • $934,148 was awarded to the Herkimer County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Mohawk River Watershed (EPF).
    • $569,993 was awarded to the Montgomery County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Mohawk River Watershed (EPF).

    North Country – $2,225,045

    • $594,359 was awarded to the Clinton County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Lake Champlain Watershed (EPF).
    • $421,347 was awarded to the Essex County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with two farms in the Lake Champlain Watershed (Bond Act).
    • $1,077,740 was awarded to the Jefferson County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with three farms in the Black River Watershed (EPF).
    • $131,599 was awarded to the Lewis County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Black River Watershed (Bond Act).

    Capital Region – $264,056

    • $75,014 was awarded to the Columbia County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Hudson River Watershed (EPF).
    • $189,042 was awarded to the Schenectady County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Mohawk River Watershed (EPF).

    Long Island – $183,694

    • $183,694 was awarded to the Suffolk County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with four farms in the Long Island Sound Watershed (EPF).

    State Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “New York farmers are among the most dedicated stewards of our natural resources, working every day to protect our lands and waters. These grants will help them expand that work while supporting their ability to grow fresh, local food that communities across our state depend on. I thank Governor Hochul for prioritizing these investments for our environment and for the future of New York agriculture.”

    State Senator Pete Harckham said, “This historic investment in the State’s Agricultural Nonpoint Source Pollution Abatement and Control Program will help farmers and conservation districts protect the health of our fragile waterways. Thank you to Governor Hochul and the Department of Agriculture and Markets for this crucial investment in the health of our waterways.”

    State Senator Lea Webb said, “As an advocate for sustainable agriculture, I’m proud to see that our state has secured a record level of funding through the Environmental Protection Fund to support agricultural water quality conservation projects. This investment in nonpoint source programming is not just a win for our farmers but for the health of our environment and future generations. By working together, we’re creating a blueprint for responsible farming that prioritizes both productivity and environmental stewardship.”

    Assemblymember Donna Lupardo said, “Our Soil and Water Conservation Districts work diligently to protect NY’s natural resources. For 30 years, our Ag Nonpoint Source Program has provided them with the resources needed to develop effective on-farm solutions for NY’s farmers. This latest round of funding from the Environmental Protection Fund and now the Bond Act, will send a record amount of support for agricultural water quality conservation projects across the state. Thank you to everyone involved for their shared commitment to environmental stewardship at this important time.”

    Assemblymember Deborah J. Glick said, “New York’s agriculture sector is a critically important segment of our economy. Preserving water quality while expanding operations is good environmental practice as well as good business. Our Soil and Water Conservation Districts are experts and vital partners with our farmers to ensure that farms can thrive without negative impacts to our waterways. I want to thank Governor Hochul for her ongoing support of common-sense use of our environmental funds.”

    New York State Soil and Water Conservation Committee Chairman Matt Brower said, “The funds awarded for Round 30 will make it possible for farms to install needed practices to protect water quality across the State. These farms, like other farms over the past 30 years, have demonstrated a commitment to installing best management practices to protect the environment. Thanks to the Soil and Water Conservation Districts for their efforts preparing the various proposals and for assisting the farmers with the planning, design, and installation of the practices.”

    New York State Farm Bureau President David Fisher said, “Farmers are stewards of the land. They care deeply about the quality of water they use for their crops and animals, and they are active partners in practicing sustainability on their farms. This record-level funding for the Ag Nonpoint program will help protect our most valuable natural resource by allowing farmers to continue instituting best practices and to adapt new technologies as they become available.”

    Through this latest round of the program, Round 30, a total of $25 million was made available to the State’s County and Soil and Water Conservation Districts, who applied on behalf of New York farmers: $14 million is from the Environmental Protection Fund and $11 million is from the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022. The Ag Nonpoint Program is marking its 30th anniversary, and so far, through 29 rounds of funding, over $250 million has been awarded to on-farm projects.

    The New York Department of Agriculture and Markets, in coordination with the New York State Soil and Water Conservation Committee, administers the Agricultural Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control Program through its Land and Water Division, which works to protect New York’s land and water resources through farmland protection, farmland conservation, and proactive environmental stewardship.

    The Agricultural Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control Program functions as part of the Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) framework, a broader effort that helps farmers achieve higher levels of environmental stewardship and more efficient, cost-effective farming systems. County Soil and Water Conservation Districts use the AEM framework to assist interested farmers through planning and implementation to make science-based and cost-effective decisions. As a result, farmers can meet business goals while conserving the State’s natural resources.

    Governor Hochul’s Commitment to Soil and Water Conservation Districts

    Under the Governor’s leadership, the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget provides $81.8 million through the Environmental Protection Fund, up $4 million from last year, for agricultural programs and initiatives, such as the Ag Nonpoint Program and the Climate Resilient Farming grant program, that are helping farms to implement environmentally sustainable practices and combat climate change.

    This includes capital investments Soil and Water Conservation Districts oversee, such as supporting dairy farmers to implement projects that enhance manure management systems that sequester carbon and conserve manure nutrients applied to fields and soil to benefit water quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It also includes recent funding in the Eastern Finger Lakes Watershed that galvanizes implementation of the plans and programs to address on-the-ground actions necessary to abate nutrient pollution and harmful algal blooms (HABs), prevent runoff, protect drinking water, and support local farmers.

    In addition, the voter-approved $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022 is advancing historic levels of funding to update aging water infrastructure and protect water quality, strengthen communities’ ability to withstand severe storms and flooding, reduce air pollution and lower climate-altering emissions, restore habitats, and preserve outdoor spaces and local farms.

    New York State’s Climate Agenda

    New York State’s climate agenda calls for an affordable and just transition to a clean energy economy that creates family-sustaining jobs, promotes economic growth through green investments, and directs a minimum of 35 percent of the benefits to disadvantaged communities. New York is advancing a suite of efforts to achieve an emissions-free economy by 2050, including in the energy, buildings, transportation and waste sectors.

    Sources: Governor.ny.gov  BigNY.com ,
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