New York is opening a funding program to advance local and regional infrastructure projects statewide. The state has opened $50 million in county infrastructure grant funds to support economic development, housing creation, community space improvement and tourism.
The program, launched in November 2024, provides up to $100 million for these county-led developments. The first round announced in July 2025 awarded approximately $37 million to construct over 2,750 housing units over 49 projects. State leaders say this initiative is intended for projects that often lack dedicated funding but remain local priorities.
Eligible uses are broad. Counties can put the money toward building or upgrading public infrastructure, improving water, sewer, utility, or road systems, or covering design and engineering costs up to 20% of the project. Funds may also support equipment, site prep, demolition, property acquisition, and placemaking or beautification work. Every project needs at least a 50% non-ESD match along with a $250 application fee.
How much funding a project can get depends on whether it leads to new housing. Projects that support ten or more homes can receive up to $1 million, and all other projects can receive up to $500,000.
Counties start the process by submitting a Letter of Intent, then follow up with a full application in the Consolidated Funding Application portal. Awards are made in rounds until the funding is gone, and any leftover money can be used in future rounds.
The second-round application window opened Dec. 2 and will remain open through April 1, 2026.
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