The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) today announced a Request for Proposals (RFP) for grants to fund projects that will address the water quality of Coney Island Creek and the surrounding environment. The Coney Island Creek Environmental Benefit Project Fund (CICF) was created by DEC after the State’s enforcement action against Beach Haven Apartments Associates, LLC, a residential building complex, for illicit sewage discharges into New York City waters.

“Born out of grim circumstances, this grant program provides a great opportunity to improve the health of Coney Island Creek and its surrounding natural areas,” said Regional Director Steve Zahn. “Leaders in this tight knit community voiced their concerns and vision of how the funds should be used and we look forward to reviewing the proposals submitted.”

The CICF environmental grant program is administered by NFWF with funds obtained by DEC pursuant to an Order on Consent with Beach Haven Apartments. The consent order requires that funds be used for Environmental Benefit Projects (EBPs) that address water quality, create green infrastructure, create or improve open space and waterfront access, establish ecological and recreational programs and/or provide additional stormwater management impacting Coney Island Creek. Grants range from $15,000 – $100,00 per project.

To be eligible, projects must be within the zip codes: 11214, 11223 and 11224, and have a direct effect on Coney Island Creek, with priority given to projects with tangible, measurable benefits to the creek and the shoreline. Eligible applicants include nonprofit 501(c) organizations, municipal government and educational institutions. Groups without 501(c) nonprofit status may partner with an eligible applicant, including a fiscal agent.

Proposals will be accepted starting today, May 16 through Thursday, July 19, at 11:59 p.m. NFWF is hosting a workshop for this grant on Wednesday, June 6^th at the Wildlife Conservation Society’s NY Aquarium, Education Hall, 602 Surf Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11224 at 7:00 p.m.

To apply or learn more about this RFP please visit: www.nfwf.org/whatwedo/idea/cicf/pages/2018rfp.aspx.