State Budget Recap

The NYS budget has good news for the Hudson Valley .

Hudson Valley Environmental Programs Fare Well in Tight Spending Climate

Even though a recent Division of the Budget financial report details more than $20 billion in combined budget shortfalls over the next three years, we're pleased to note that the Hudson Valley -- where pressures from sprawl and poorly planned development are greatest -- is still a funding priority for New York State lawmakers and Gov. David Paterson.

Highlights of the budget for the new fiscal year include:

• $5-million increase to the Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) to $255 million total, one step closer to the goal set by lawmakers of $300 million by 2009-10
• $1 million increase for Hudson River Estuary Program, making a total to $6.5 million of EPF funds available for conservation of the Hudson's natural resources, promotion of public use and enjoyment and ongoing clean-up of pollution.
• $11 million increase in EPF-funded land acquisition category so that more protected lands will be available to preserve safe drinking water, majestic views, working farmland and public parks.
• Funding to enhance partnerships between land trusts and state government through the Conservation Partnership Program
• $500,000-increase in funding for strategies and grants that encourage Smart Growth in our region.
• $3 million toward the 2009 quadricentennial of Henry Hudson's voyage of discovery, plus an additional $8 million for the "Walkway Across the Hudson" at the former Poughkeepsie Railroad bridge
• The budget also includes $1.5 million for completion of the Scenic Hudson park at Long Dock Beacon -- thanks to Senator Saland.

Thanks to our members who participated in e-advocacy campaigns and helped to make these accomplishments possible.