Westchester Reporter

Yonkers Mayor Spano has announced federal funding to create a green building standard in the city, emphasizing the importance of reducing the carbon footprint. The mayor expressed, "This is part of our overarching goal of reducing our carbon footprint. The outcome of creating this standard will be leveraged across all existing buildings and create a benchmark for our new buildings. We want Yonkers to lead the way to meet our climate goals and reduce the energy burden on our most vulnerable residents. Thank you to our federal partners for sharing our vision and commitment to the health and sustainability of our communities."

The initiative involves partnering with various entities such as other cities, the Hudson Valley Regional Council (HVRC), Groundwork Hudson Valley, the Energy Justice Law and Policy Center, community nonprofit organizations, and Hudson Valley regional planning organizations in neighboring counties. The goal is to benefit disadvantaged communities and significantly reduce building emissions.

Director of the HVRC expressed optimism, stating, "With all of us working together, this project has the potential to accelerate the passage of a statewide mandate. It will create a better quality of life for the future of Yonkers and New York State."

In the first year of the project, the funding will be used to create a survey of building owners in participating municipalities, draft policies, and implement a working plan.

Yonkers, known as the third largest city in New York State and the largest city in Westchester County, serves as the gateway to the Hudson Valley. The city has a rich history, evolving from a small farm town in 1646 to a major trading and industrial center. Today, Yonkers boasts the largest film production studios in the Northeast and is recognized as "Hollywood on Hudson." Additionally, Yonkers is renowned for being one of the safest cities of its size in the nation and is home to a vibrant arts district and over 80 local parks.