New York Launches $21.6M Clean Mobility Fund

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has declared the availability of $21. 6 million in financing to help community-led, zero-emission mobility pilot projects throughout the state—a daring move toward cleaner and more just transportation networks. Managed by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), the program is part of the state's continuous efforts to decarbonize its transportation sector, enhance air quality, and broaden access to affordable, environmentally friendly mobility choices.

Open to ideas from municipal governments, transit agencies, community-based organizations, and major employers, the fresh round of funding is part of New York's more general Clean Mobility Program. The program is expressly meant to aid the testing and growth of environmentally friendly transportation options that may be replicated and scaled in towns throughout the state. Under-served areas, including the Bronx and areas served by upstate utilities Central Hudson, National Grid, NYSEG, and RGandE will be given priority.

E-bikes, e-scooters, electric vehicle (EV) ride-hailing companies, and small-scale, on-demand electric transit systems are among eligible projects under the scheme. Particularly for short-distance transportation in urban and suburban environments, these modes of transportation—generally known as micromobility and shared mobility—are seen as affordable, versatile, low-emission alternatives to traditional cars and buses.

Every project should have a thorough planning part in addition to showing technical feasibility and cost. This encompasses regulatory issues, site selection, technical standards, and community involvement. Proposals must demonstrate how the initiatives will offer long-term transportation advantages to local communities, particularly those traditionally marginalized or underserved with appropriate public transit infrastructure, in order to qualify.

Governor Hochul underlined New York's dedication to developing clean energy and transit solutions even in the face of federal regulatory rollbacks. “Even as the federal government walks away from clean air and energy standards, New York continues to invest in modern, flexible and efficient electric transportation options that improve air quality and expand affordable consumer choices,” she said. “Our priority is linking communities with resources that provide residents with a variety of transportation options that allow them to conduct their daily business uninterrupted. ”

Up to $8 million of the total funding is set aside for particular locations to advance geographical equity: $5 million for micromobility projects inside upstate utility areas and $3 million specifically for the Bronx. With candidates obligated to offer at least 20% of whole project expenses from non-NYSERDA sources, each granted project can get up to $3 million. This cost-sharing rule guarantees that beneficiaries are interested in the achievement of the project while using state resources for wider influence.

President and CEO of NYSERDA Doreen M. Harris emphasized the need of community involvement and innovation. Harris noted, "Supporting electric vehicle ride sharing, e-bikes, e-scooters and other sustainable, affordable mobility options helps keep people engaged and active in their communities. " "We look forward to receiving creative demonstration proposals that provide the opportunity to help New Yorkers maintain transportation freedom and can be replicated and adopted throughout the state for the benefit of all. "

Other state officials also highlighted the advantages of the program. The investment, according to Rory M. Christian, CEO of the New York State Department of Public Service, is "critically important" to increase transportation access for those without flexible or affordable mobility possibilities. Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Conservation, Amanda Lefton, pointed out that the money specifically serves the needs of areas most susceptible to pollution-related health concerns, including asthma. Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez, on the other hand, stressed the wider societal advantages of clean mobility by pointing out, “Clean transportation solutions do more than just reduce emissions; they enhance public health, advance equity and accessibility, and help build a more sustainable, connected future. ”

To help potential candidates, NYSERDA will hold an educational webinar on August 7 and a virtual vendor display on August 14 including suppliers of both two-wheeled and four-wheeled mobility products. A Mobility Solutions Provider Directory is also accessible to assist applicants in finding suitable technology partners. Proposals must be turned in by 3:00 p. m. ET on September 25, 2025.

Building on the $32 million Clean Mobility Program started in June 2024 and $2. 9 million in planning grants given earlier this year to 29 neighborhood-based projects, this latest funding round adds additional resources. Notably, before involvement is not a condition for eligibility for this round of funding, therefore enabling fresh stakeholders to interact with the state's clean transit plan.

Beyond finances, New York has enacted legal and administrative measures to guarantee the safe application of novel transportation technologies. Governor Hochul signed legislation last year governing e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries in addition to the distribution of consumer safety guidelines for charging and storage to lower fire hazards.

New York's $3 billion larger commitment in zero-emission cars and infrastructure for clean transportation includes the Clean Mobility Program. It supports other big initiatives meant to decarbonize transportation, enhance public health outcomes, and guarantee every New Yorker—regardless of income or zip code—has access to clean, inexpensive, and dependable means of transportation: the New York Clean Transportation Prizes and the EV Make Ready scheme.