2025 Smart Growth Grant Program Round 8

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is pleased to announce availability of $3.8 million from the Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) for smart growth projects that will implement existing plans or develop new comprehensive plans within the Adirondack Park and Catskill Park (Parks). DEC, in partnership with the Adirondack Park Agency (APA) and the Department of State, is soliciting bids from municipalities and not-for-profit corporations. Grants will support key projects that build on comprehensive planning and economic development activities by implementing a specific strategy or objective. DEC seeks capital projects and community development initiatives that link environmental protection, economic development and community livability within the special conditions of the Parks. The program provides additional evaluation points towards regional or park-wide projects and projects that address affordable housing needs. The program also includes a separate scoring category for development of comprehensive plans and local land use plans as well as updates to prior plans. This is a reimbursement-based grant program.