The New York League of Conservation Voters applauds City Council Speaker Adams, Finance Chair Brannan, Parks Chair Krishnan, and the City Council for ensuring provisions to protect the environment and expand mass transit access were included in New York City’s Final Adopted FY26 Budget. But let’s be clear: this was not, as Mayor Adams suggested, the ‘Best Budget Ever’ when it comes to the environment.
Following our worst heat wave in more than a decade, this budget leaves millions of New York City’s park users out in the cold, while Mayor Adams’ refusal to restore funding for 795 essential Parks workers puts at risk our health, safety, and quality of life. When the mayor publicly pledged to fund our parks at 1% of the city budget, New Yorkers expected action. Instead, this so-called ‘Best Budget’ leaves us begging for the restoration of the very funds his administration cut.
It’s also unfortunate to see the continuation of DEP’s so-called ‘rental payment,’ which siphons away hundreds of millions of dollars annually that should be used for storm proofing and water quality infrastructure investments, and instead sends them to the black hole of the city’s general fund. And after pausing enforcement, we are disappointed that no funds were dedicated for outreach and education for the residential organics program, which is critical to the city’s zero waste goals.
There were some bright spots to celebrate, including $25 million in funding and an expansion of eligibility for Fair Fares and $6.1 million for a new Division of Sustainable Delivery within DOT.
This budget was an opportunity to make important progress on climate policy, equity, and quality of life – instead, New Yorkers are left wanting. We look forward to continuing to work with the City Council and all of our partners to hold the administration accountable and ensure next year’s budget meets the moment.