Governor Kathy Hochul has announced $43 million in funding from the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act to support the construction of key elements of the Manhattan Greenway’s Harlem River section. The initiative aims to improve waterfront access for neighborhood residents and strengthen protections against extreme weather and rising sea levels.
The project, called Manhattan Greenway Harlem River, will include a reconstructed seawall, new pedestrian and bike pathways, and a new seven-block waterfront park. This is part of a larger effort to create a 32.5-mile green space ring around Manhattan. The total cost for the Harlem River portion is $309 million and is led by New York City.
“New York State is investing in Harlem and other neighborhoods across the city with support from the $4.2 billion Environmental Bond Act, connecting communities to the waterfront while also making these areas more resilient and sustainable,” Governor Hochul said. “Last week’s severe flooding and resulting State of Emergency declaration are reminders that extreme weather is no longer a rare occurrence — it’s our new reality. This project comes at a critical time as we double down on building climate resilience, protecting vulnerable areas, and expanding access to safe and healthy outdoor spaces.”
The state’s contribution will help elevate the shoreline by about two feet to an elevation of 11 feet, which aligns with sea level rise projections through 2080. The new park will add hundreds of trees and shrubs along with two acres of lawns to help reduce heat island effects in East Harlem and manage stormwater.
Other features planned for the site include passive lawns, seating areas, fitness zones, playgrounds, public art installations, and community spaces. These amenities are designed for neighborhoods identified as having high population vulnerabilities and environmental burdens.
The project involves collaboration among several agencies including New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), New York City Parks Department, New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), which will upgrade storm sewers in the area as part of flood risk reduction efforts.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “New York State’s Environmental Bond Act investment in the Manhattan Greenway is a textbook example of how Governor Hochul is centering equity and advancing climate resilience in careful consideration of specific community needs and vulnerabilities, here in the city and across the state. DEC’s $43 million commitment to the Harlem River Greenway will help address climate vulnerabilities and disparities in one of the nation’s most disadvantaged communities by elevating the shoreline to reduce risks from climate change-driven sea level rise and intense storms, while connecting East Harlem residents with expanded waterfront access. I am thrilled to see progress underway to connect local residents with the waterfront and new opportunities to get outside and enjoy Manhattan.”
New York City Parks Commissioner Iris-Rodriguez Rosa added gratitude for state support: “We’re so grateful for the State for their support in championing this investment in new open space and resiliency improvements along the East River. Construction is already underway on Manhattan Greenway Harlem River and we look forward to providing more updates to the community as the project progresses.”
NYCEDC President & CEO Andrew Kimball described it as “a major step forward” toward completing greenway connections between 125th-132nd Street: “NYCEDC, alongside our State and local partners, is committed to expanding New York City’s already robust greenways system…to build a more sustainable, resilient, and interconnected future for New York City.”
Elected officials representing Harlem expressed support for both environmental justice goals—addressing historical inequities—and practical benefits like job creation:
State Senator Robert Jackson stated: “The Harlem River has long been a dividing line—between access and exclusion…But this $43 million investment begins to rewrite that legacy…Through the Environmental Bond Act…we are repairing environmental harm…reconnecting East Harlem to its rightful riverfront…I commend Governor Hochul for her partnership…Because everyone has a right to clean air and clean water.”
State Senator Cordell Cleare said: “This project represents … strengthening connection between our community … while simultaneously building … resilience … I commend Governor Hochul for smartly prioritizing this initiative.”
Assemblymember Jordan J.G. Wright noted recent weather extremes: “From Hurricane Sandy to … recent heat waves … extreme weather is now normal…Protecting Harlem … bringing new access … creates jobs [and] brings more open space….I commend Governor Hochul for spearheading this important effort which will improve quality of life….”
Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine emphasized completion priorities: “I am thrilled that New York State is investing in [this]. This funding is an investment in climate equity that will provide [East Harlem] much-needed park space…[and] infrastructure….Thank you Governor Hochul….”
City Council Member Yusuf Salaam called it “a turning point” reconnecting residents with their riverfront; Council Member Carmen De La Rosa highlighted urgency due to repeated flooding impacts on Upper Manhattan communities.
This initiative builds on broader recreational investments included in New York’s Fiscal Year 2026 Budget such as $200 million earmarked for State Parks upgrades; $100 million allocated under Unplug & Play; funds set aside via NY BRICKS ($100M), NY PLAYS ($67.5M), plus continued NY SWIMS program funding ($90M).
Voters approved the $4.2 billion Environmental Bond Act on November 8, 2022; about 25 percent—or roughly $1.8 billion—has been awarded so far statewide toward projects improving water quality protection, pollution reduction efforts or supporting adaptation strategies related to climate change.
In April 2025 another round opened up offering $60 million through Green Resiliency Grants targeting stormwater management infrastructure applications due August 15.
For further information about ongoing projects or application resources visit environmentalbondact.ny.gov.
