New York Announces Commitment to a Comprehensive Plan to Build Statewide Climate Resilience

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

(ALBANY, NY – January 9, 2024) - As part of New York’s recent 2024 State of the State, Governor Hochul announced the commitment to establish a comprehensive plan and other expanded programs and policies to build resilience amid extreme weather and worsening climate impacts. These include assistance to protect homes, supporting vulnerable communities, expanding data availability and accessibility, overhauling building codes, strengthening infrastructure and improving disaster preparedness across the state. 

“Time and time again, New York communities experience the devastating consequences from climate-driven weather and flooding disasters. Hurricanes Ida, Sandy and impending heavy rains have made it abundantly clear that these impacts are already here today. We need a plan for that.  

“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 thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act, the time could not be better to establish a statewide framework that supports the strategic deployment of these investments and related programs spanning different agencies and levels of government toward the reduction of risks for New York’s communities.  

“A comprehensive resilience plan is a priority that EDF has advocated for in collaboration with governor’s office. We are thrilled that the Hochul Administration recognizes the importance and urgency of building statewide climate resilience, and we look forward to working with leaders, local communities and our partners in supporting the advancement of these policies and other environmental commitments.”  

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

With more than 3 million members, Environmental Defense Fund creates transformational solutions to the most serious environmental problems. To do so, EDF links science, economics, law, and innovative private-sector partnerships to turn solutions into action. edf.org

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