New York passes $4.2bn environmental bond act on midterm ballot

Proposal, a first in 26 years, aims to disburse benefits to communities most impacted by the climate crisis

On Tuesday, New York state voters passed a ballot measure that would fund up to $4.2bn for environmental improvement projects - including increasing flood resiliency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, electrifying school buses and creating more green and open spaces.

The proposal also aims to reach communities most affected by the climate crisis. If approved, it will allow the state to sell bonds in order to raise funds to finance several projects.

Climate change mitigation: Up to $1.5bn for projects including reducing energy use and greenhouse gas emissions from state-owned properties and agricultural lands, reducing air and water pollution in environmental justice communities, and addressing the effects of extreme heat in cities with measures like increased green space and community cooling centers. The act also specifies at least $500m will go toward electric school buses.

Flood risk reduction and waterway restoration: At least $1.1bn to address flood-prone roadways, properties and infrastructure, and fund projects including coastal, wetland and stream restoration.

Water quality and infrastructure improvement: At least $650m to improve water infrastructure and projects like reducing chemical runoff from farms, upgrading wastewater systems and improving municipal stormwater management.

Open space conservation: Up to $650m for projects like preserving farmland and open space for recreation and improving parks, campgrounds and fish hatcheries.

Unallocated: $300m