Skaneateles is getting a share of the over $7.3 million going to climate-smart community projects throughout New York State.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Monday that the village will receive $375,025 to enhance pedestrian comfort and safety by constructing a concrete sidewalk on Orchard Road, providing access to existing sidewalks on West Elizabeth Street and Route 20.
“New Yorkers are all too familiar with the increased frequency of severe weather events caused by climate change, and I commend the work of these local communities to reduce emissions and address the crisis head on,” Governor Hochul said. “These climate smart investments help municipalities across the state build stronger and more resilient communities while helping to ensure the health and safety of residents, providing green jobs, and protecting the environment for years to come.”
The corridor was identified as lacking pedestrian infrastructure within the village.
The project aims to reduce vehicle miles travelled and safeguard against potential pedestrian/vehicle conflicts.
Additionally, Onondaga County will receive $100,000 to update its government operations greenhouse gas inventory and climate action plan, something last done in 2017. The City of Syracuse is also getting $100,000 to update its sustainability plan, complete communitywide and government operations greenhouse gas inventories, and develop a climate action plan.
The DEC’s Climate Smart Communities grant program was established in 2016 to support municipalities seeking to implement projects to reduce and mitigate greenhouse gasses as well as combat climate change.
The Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act requires New York to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 85% below 1990 levels by 2050.
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