The 2024 Hudson River Estuary Grants Program (Round 46) is funded by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) to promote public access to the Hudson River estuary and its tidal waters. The primary aim is to enhance accessibility for all individuals, including people with disabilities, for recreational purposes such as boating, fishing, and nature-related activities. The grant aligns with the Hudson River Estuary Action Agenda, which seeks to make estuary access points more resilient to climate challenges, like flooding and sea level rise, while addressing social equity by supporting disadvantaged communities. Applications must focus on defined access objectives and are due by December 12, 2024, with project work beginning no earlier than July 1, 2025, and concluding by June 30, 2028.

Approximately $200,000 is available, with a minimum award amount of $10,500 and a maximum of $200,000 per project. Bidders are required to provide a 15% match, with a potential increase in scoring for those offering a 30% match. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, governmental entities, municipalities, public benefit corporations, and educational institutions within the designated geographic area. The grant also allows eligible bidders to partner with other entities through cooperative agreements, though individuals and unincorporated groups are ineligible. Projects are expected to focus on river accessibility improvements, planning for resilience to climate impacts, or enhancing ADA-compliant facilities.

Applicants must submit all materials through the State Financial System (SFS) Grants Management System. Required documentation includes eligibility verification, project scope, budget, detailed project timeline, and the completion of specific NYS forms such as the Smart Growth Assessment Form, Sexual Harassment Prevention Certification, and Executive Order 16 Certification. Not-for-profits must be prequalified in the SFS Grants Management system by the application deadline, and all permit applications must be in place for construction projects.

The grant application emphasizes several evaluation criteria. Priority is given to projects that demonstrate high impact on public access, align with the Hudson River Estuary Action Agenda, and consider resilience against climate risks. Scoring will also evaluate the applicant's track record, qualifications, cost-effectiveness, and community support. Points may be awarded for projects benefiting disadvantaged or environmental justice communities, aligning with Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) strategies, and engaging Hudson River Estuary Program staff. An itemized budget detailing the allocation for personal services, materials, and equipment is essential, with a cap of 20% on personal services and 10% on administrative costs.

Key dates include an informational webinar on October 17, 2024, the final question submission deadline on December 5, 2024, and the expected announcement of awards in May 2025. The DEC will monitor the progress of funded projects, requiring quarterly reports and a final report upon project completion.