Pledges once-in-a-generation investments in climate solutions, new Hudson Valley parks and trails
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Andy Bicking, Director of Government Relations & Public Policy:
914 489 1568; abicking@scenichudson.org
HUDSON VALLEY—Scenic Hudson released the following statement about Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2022 budget address. In addition to the $4-billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act, she proposed a $100-million increase in the Environmental Protection Fund and a $90-million rise in the Parks Capital Fund, both of which will provide critical support to complete major new parks and trails in the Hudson Valley.
Scenic Hudson President Ned Sullivan said, “Governor Hochul’s proposed budget hits a grand slam for enhancing trails and creating new parks — via a $1-billion increase in the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act and rises in the Environmental Protection Fund and Parks Capital Fund. For residents of the Hudson Valley, it will make a significant investment in connecting existing sections of the Westchester RiverWalk beneath the Cuomo Bridge, providing more equitable transportation opportunities that also reduce pollution and congestion and boost local economies. Support from the bond act will accelerate collaborative efforts to complete the new state park in Ulster County on land Scenic Hudson protected, providing healthy, close-to-home recreation for residents of Kingston and surrounding communities. I congratulate the governor and look forward to working with her and her staff to secure support for this visionary funding.”
Director of Government Relations and Public Policy Andy Bicking said, “Governor Hochul’s budget proposal is great — it includes the $4-billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act, a $400-million Environmental Protection Fund, and a $200-million Parks Capital Fund. Importantly, her proposal also includes new staff for long-underfunded state agencies so that they deliver results. The state continues to grapple with pressure on drinking water supplies, severe storm events, and a high level of demand on parks and open space, and these nation-leading investments keep us on the right track in confronting these challenges. Scenic Hudson is really excited to see increases in the Climate Resilient Farms and Soil and Water Conservation District programs of the EPF, which will help the Hudson Valley and New York State address climate change while continuing to provide fresh, local food to its residents. I look forward to reviewing the proposals in detail and sharing additional thoughts with the state Legislature.”
