New York Commits to Comprehensive Statewide Climate Resilience Plan

(ALBANY, NY – January 9, 2024) – Governor Hochul of New York recently announced a commitment to establish a comprehensive plan and other expanded programs and policies to build resilience amid extreme weather and worsening climate impacts. These initiatives include assistance to protect homes, support for vulnerable communities, expanded data availability and accessibility, overhauled building codes, strengthened infrastructure, and improved disaster preparedness across the state.

Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) commends New York State’s commitment to developing a comprehensive resiliency plan and expanding critical resources to support frontline communities facing climate impacts. With an influx of funding from the Inflation Reduction Act, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and the Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act, now is the perfect time to establish a statewide framework that strategically deploys these investments and related programs across different agencies and levels of government to reduce risks for New York’s communities.

A comprehensive resilience plan is a priority that EDF has advocated for in collaboration with the governor’s office. The Hochul Administration recognizes the importance and urgency of building statewide climate resilience, and EDF looks forward to working with leaders, local communities, and partners to support the advancement of these policies and other environmental commitments.

– Kate Boicourt, Director, Climate Resilient Coasts & Watersheds, New York-New Jersey, Environmental Defense Fund