East Hudson Valley News

In Poughkeepsie, NY, the Dutchess County Department of Planning and Development has commenced the application process for the 2024 Agency Partner Grant (APG): Infrastructure Program. The program, which has a total of $200,000 allocated in the 2024 Dutchess County Budget, aims to provide funding through a competitive grant process to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that offer youth programming venues in Dutchess County. To qualify for the grant, applicants must own or have a long-term lease (25+ years) for the facility that hosts the youth activities.

"This year’s grant program focuses on capital infrastructure initiatives only," mentioned in the announcement. Eligible projects should assist in maintaining or enhancing an organization’s asset, such as renovating, replacing, or expanding an existing facility. Examples of eligible expenses include roof, windows, and/or doors replacement; HVAC improvements or replacement; plumbing, electrical, and/or security upgrades; and furniture, fixtures, and/or equipment for youth activities. Additionally, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) improvements to promote accessibility are also considered eligible.

County Executive Serino expressed, "Our children deserve every opportunity to learn and grow in safe and appropriate facilities. Our APG: Infrastructure Program will help our community partner agencies that serve young people make capital infrastructure improvements and enhancements to venues that house youth programming. We thank the County Legislature for its continued support of this program, and we encourage eligible organizations to take advantage of this funding opportunity."

The review of all APG: Infrastructure grant applications is conducted by the County’s Community Development Advisory Committee and the Department of Planning and Development’s staff. Recommendations are then sent to the County Executive for final approval.

Interested parties can find additional information, application instructions, and guidance about the 2024 APG: Infrastructure Program online. The applications will be accepted through an online portal until May 10th at 3 p.m., with the awards set to be announced during the summer of 2024.