Governor Kathy Hochul at the 217th session of the Basic School of the New York State Police Academy. The ceremony was held at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany.
Photo by Aidin Bharti/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul
Gov. Kathy Hochul on Monday, April 20, kicked off Earth Week in New York State by launching the “These Lands Are For Everyone” accessibility and inclusivity initiative with the first two major outdoor recreational infrastructure investments helping connect more New Yorkers of all abilities with the environment.
With $10.8 million in new funding from the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022, the governor said “These Lands Are For Everyone” is advancing a pair of inclusive, accessible Western New York-based environmental projects to build on her ongoing efforts helping all New Yorkers thrive independently with dignity and opportunity.
“Our communities are stronger and healthier when we break down barriers together and expand access for everyone,” Hochul said. “I’m proud to announce these two wonderful projects in Western New York as part of the launch of the ‘These Lands Are for Everyone’ initiative to create immersive and welcoming destinations for all, and where everyone is supported with dignity.
To ensure New York’s open spaces are accessible and inclusive, the governor said she created the “These Lands Are For Everyone” initiative in the 2026 State of the State agenda to be led by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to expand access to state lands for all New Yorkers.
She said these “Lands Are For Everyone” will invest in “inclusive, sensory-friendly and accessible experiences”, including tactile exhibits, sensory trails, and inclusive nature centers, ensuring all children and adults can enjoy New York’s natural treasures.
“These investments will remove barriers and accommodate sensory and mobility needs so that neurodiverse and people with disabilities can benefit from the State’s treasured natural spaces,” Hochul said.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “Since taking office, Gov. Hochul has advanced meaningful investments and policies to support inclusivity, accessibility, equity, and mental well-being across state government.
“DEC is proud to lead the ‘These Lands Are For Everyone’ initiative, expanding accessible recreational opportunities across the State for all — especially neurodiverse youth and young people with disabilities,” she said. “These new and enhanced projects will help inspire a lifetime of learning and foster a lasting connection to the outdoors.”
New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities Commissioner Willow Baer said, “New York State is home to some of the most beautiful public lands in the nation, and making them more accessible for people with disabilities and their families to enjoy signals that these spaces are truly welcoming of everyone.
“We are grateful to Gov. Hochul and our partners at DEC for making important upgrades, such as adding adult changing stations in restrooms and accessible splashpads and pools, allowing more people with disabilities to fully enjoy New York’s incredible parks,” Baer added.
New York State Chief Disability Officer Kimberly H. Ridley said, “By launching ‘These Lands Are For Everyone,’ Gov. Hochul is sending a clear message: New York’s natural beauty belongs to all of us, regardless of ability,” she said. “These investments go beyond simple compliance; they create truly immersive environments where New Yorkers with disabilities can explore, learn, and connect with nature with the dignity they deserve.
“We are proud to work alongside our state partners to tear down barriers and ensure our public lands are accessible, welcoming, and inclusive for every generation,” Ridley added.