New Rochelle Earns NYS Climate Smart Community Bronze Certification

NEW ROCHELLE, NY — There are signs everywhere of the Queen City on the Sound's move toward a greener future and those efforts were recognized in a big way recently.

The city of New Rochelle just announced that it received certification as a Bronze-level Climate Smart Community (CSC), in recognition of its ongoing commitment to meet the economic, social and environmental challenges posed by climate change locally. The award was presented by NYSDEC Commissioner Basil Seggos at a ceremony in Westchester County on Monday.

NYS's Climate Smart Community program has more than 100 actions developed by the state's Department of Environmental Conservation that provide a climate-conscious roadmap for municipalities. First designated a CSC community in 2009, New Rochelle was recognized in part for its commitment to transitioning to zero carbon emissions, investing in community resilience, restoring ecosystems, and building a more just, healthy and livable future, officials said.

"New York State applauds the work of local communities facing the climate crisis head on through the implementation of policies and plans that benefit local residents, create green jobs, and help build a stronger, more resilient Empire State," Governor Hochul said of the municipalities recognized. "It is crucial to do everything we can to combat climate change, and I thank my partners not only in the state, but in our neighborhoods for making these smart communities a reality. For our children, we must leave the earth better than it was when we inherited it, and with work like this we certainly are."

New Rochelle's CSC Bronze Certification shows the city's progress toward addressing its 2021 resolution declaring a climate emergency and meeting the goals of GreeNR, the city’s sustainability plan. New Rochelle’s climate smart actions were held up as an example of how NYS municipalities can meet the challenges set forth under the 2019 NYS Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act — which commits NYS to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing renewable energy generation, and targeting no less than 35 percent of climate action benefits to historically disadvantaged communities.

SEE ALSO: New Rochelle Officially Declares Climate Emergency

"We are extremely proud to receive this CSC Bronze certification, which reflects our City’s commitment to local climate action and the dedication of City departments to complete over thirty Climate Smart actions," Deputy City Manager and Development Commissioner Adam Salgado said. "We will continue to work together with stakeholders and residents to improve our community’s resilience in the face of the escalating challenges of climate change."

New Rochelle earned its Bronze Certification through a series of initiatives with the goal of encouraging a green Sound Shore community. The city participated in regional climate programs through collaboration with Hudson Valley Regional Council, and partnerships with Sustainable Westchester and Adopt Clean Energy that promote private climate actions. A community greenhouse gas inventory was taken. EV charging stations and LED street lights were installed. Plans to encourage biking and walking were put into action, including new infrastructure for biking and walking, along with access to public transit through the Circuit free electric shuttle service and Veo ridesharing.

Other factors cited included the city's promotion of a waste reduction education campaign and a community tag sale and passing a comprehensive streets plan with sustainability elements.

You can find out more about New Rochelle’s Climate Smart Community Profile on the Climate Smart Communities website here.

Learn more about the CSC program, relevant actions, and the certification process here.