Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a second round of funding for the County Infrastructure Grant Program, allocating an additional $50 million to support small- and medium-sized county-led infrastructure projects across New York State. The initiative aims to maintain economic competitiveness, promote growth, and further the Governor’s housing agenda. Applications for this round are open until April 1, 2026, with counties required to submit a Letter of Intent before completing their final application.
“Coming from local government, I know firsthand how funding for local infrastructure projects can change a community — uplifting residents and providing those communities with a sense of purpose,” Governor Hochul said. “When counties are offered assistance to build more infrastructure, it gives these communities the opportunity to attract more visitors and spur housing development for generations to come.”
Hope Knight, President, CEO & Commissioner of Empire State Development (ESD), commented on the significance of the program: “Growing the state’s housing stock is not just a priority; it is a structural pillar of Governor Hochul’s administration and the essential catalyst for robust, sustainable economic growth. With another round of the County Infrastructure Grant Program, we are making a targeted investment that will provide critical housing stability for New Yorkers. This simultaneous effort will enhance the sense of place and vitality across our communities, creating the groundwork necessary to cultivate new jobs, attract new residents, and welcome visitors.”
New York State Housing and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas added: “With this second round of funding, Governor Hochul is building on the millions already invested to strengthen local infrastructure and unlock more than 2,700 housing opportunities across New York. The additional $50 million will pave the way for more homes, ensuring that counties have the tools they need to grow sustainably. By investing in the foundations of our communities, we are not only expanding the supply of housing but also fueling economic vitality, supporting tourism, and creating vibrant neighborhoods where families can thrive. We are proud to continue partnering with counties throughout New York to turn these investments into lasting results.”
Phil Church, President of the New York State Association of Counties, stated: “This innovative grant program provides vital resources that empower counties to strengthen local communities — addressing critical housing needs while upgrading aging water and wastewater systems. The New York State Association of Counties applauds Governor Kathy Hochul, the State Legislature, and Empire State Development President & CEO Hope Knight for their leadership and continued investment in county infrastructure. These partnerships between state and local governments are essential to building vibrant, resilient communities across every region of New York. With this second round of funding totaling $100 M, counties have new opportunities to deliver projects that improve quality of life and lay the foundation for sustainable growth statewide.”
State Senator Sean M. Ryan remarked: “Strong communities are built on reliable, modern infrastructure, and counties across New York have no shortage of worthy projects that just need the resources to move forward. This program gives local governments the support they need to upgrade aging systems, attract new housing, and lay the groundwork for long-term economic growth. I’m grateful to Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for continuing to invest in the growth of our communities.”
Assemblymember Al Stirpe said: “One of the biggest obstacles to economic development in New York State is housing — and a substantial amount of it for New Yorkers to live and work where they want to. The second round of the County Infrastructure Grant Program takes the housing crisis head-on, building on the success of its initial round to encourage additional housing, placemaking, and tourism in virtually every corner of the state. Small-scale infrastructure projects lacking capital…will get…the chance…to lift off…and go from idea…to implementation….This is an exciting opportunity…to continue modernizing our neighborhoods…and maintaining New York’s economic competitiveness….”
An informational webinar about applying will be held on December 18 at 11:30 a.m., with details available on the County Infrastructure Grant Program website.
The program was created as part of recent state budgets—an initial $50 million was included in fiscal year 2025’s enacted budget; another $50 million was added in fiscal year 2026’s budget—bringing total funds available through both rounds up to $100 million. Grants offer up to $1 million per project if ten or more housing units are proposed; smaller or non-housing projects may receive up to $500,000 each. In July 2025’s first round awards announcement by Governor Hochul,over $37 million supported 49 projects, resulting in construction plans for over 2,750 new homes.
Empire State Development serves as New York’s chief agency responsible for business growth strategies statewide—including oversight over regional councils; broadband expansion via ConnectALL; workforce development; support services for small businesses; industry engagement; assistance centers; tourism promotion through I LOVE NY; among other efforts.
More information about eligibility criteria or how counties can apply is available at Empire State Development’s website. Applications will be processed through the Consolidated Funding Application portal.
