Schumer, Gillibrand, Tonko Secure Massive Funding Boost

Last updated Sep 18, 2023

Albany, Glens Falls, and Capital Region to Benefit from Federal Funding for Urban Forest Program

In a bid to restore the declining tree canopy and combat urban heat islands in Albany, Glens Falls, and other Capital Region neighborhoods, significant federal funding has been secured. This funding aids in improving public health, increasing property values, and more.

Albany will receive vital funds from the Urban Forest Program under the Inflation Reduction Act – a historic investment in climate change mitigation. This funding will facilitate the pruning of all 20,000 trees in Albany.

The Inflation Reduction Act is set to cultivate a healthier, cleaner, and greener environment in Albany, Glens Falls, and the Capital Region.

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and U.S. Congressman Paul Tonko have disclosed a significant $7,288,678 federal funding boost to support Albany’s urban forest care and youth leadership programs. This funding, made available through the Urban and Community Forestry program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), will enhance Albany’s urban forest health, create leadership opportunities for the youth, and promote a sustainable environment.

“Through this substantial funding from the Inflation Reduction Act, Albany, Glens Falls, and other cities in Upstate New York will now have the resources they need to rejuvenate our underserved neighborhoods. We are set to grow a greener, healthier, and more equitable region,” stated Senator Schumer.

According to Senator Gillibrand, “Investing in access to trees and green spaces is crucial in combating heat, enhancing air quality, and providing New Yorkers with natural spaces.” She expressed her excitement about how these funds will rejuvenate Albany’s neighborhoods.

Congressman Tonko affirmed his commitment to combat climate change, spur economic growth, and improve air quality, saying, “We’re using the largest climate investment in history from the Inflation Reduction Act to deliver effective climate solutions and build a more resilient planet.”

Albany Town Mayor Kathy Sheehan emphasized the importance of revitalizing the urban forest for the health and quality of life of Albany residents. With the help of the grant, the city plans to prune all 20,000 street trees simultaneously for the first time, promoting the overall health of the urban forest.

In addition to these efforts, the University of Albany plans to establish a Center for Ecosystem-based Climate Adaptation (CECA), aiming to enhance climate resilience in Albany’s underserved communities and educate the next generation of leaders.

The City of Glens Falls also plans to implement a tree management plan and hire an arborist to develop an urban forest care plan.

Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, the USDA’s Urban and Community Forestry Program Grants now have over $1 billion available to increase equitable access to trees and the benefits they provide in disadvantaged urban communities.