Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a second round of funding for the County Infrastructure Grant Program, allocating an additional $50 million to support infrastructure projects led by small and medium-sized counties in New York. The initiative aims to help maintain the state’s economic strength by supporting local projects that can generate growth and further Governor Hochul’s housing agenda. Applications for this round are open until April 1, 2026, with a required Letter of Intent before submitting a final application.
Governor Hochul said, “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. 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), stated, “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.”
RuthAnne Visnauskas, Commissioner of New York State Housing and Community Renewal, commented on the program’s impact: “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 (NYSAC), highlighted how this grant supports both infrastructure upgrades and housing needs: “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 [million], 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 noted: “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 added: “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… Small-scale infrastructure projects lacking capital…will get the chance…to go from idea to implementation.”
The County Infrastructure Grant Program was established as part of efforts included in recent state budgets—$50 million was provided through each FY 2025 Enacted Budget as well as FY 2026—bringing total available funds up to $100 million so far. Grants offer up to $1 million per project if at least ten new housing units are created; other eligible projects may receive up to $500,000 each.
In July 2025 during its first round,more than $37 million was awarded across 49 different county-led initiatives supporting construction or rehabilitation efforts resulting in over 2,750 new homes statewide.
Counties identify their own priority projects which must contribute toward economic development or encourage tourism or placemaking activities.
An informational webinar about applying will be held December 18 at 11:30 a.m., with further details posted on the County Infrastructure Grant Program website. Applications remain open via the Consolidated Funding Application portal.
Empire State Development serves as New York’s main agency focused on business expansion statewide.
