AOC Submits Funding Requests for 15 Community Projects

Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14) unveiled her ambitious plan to secure federal funding for 15 community projects aimed at addressing critical needs within New York’s 14th Congressional District. The proposed initiatives encompass a wide range of areas including justice reform, environmental sustainability, education, and infrastructure development.

Among the key projects highlighted in Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez’s proposal are investments in violence interruption programs, green infrastructure to mitigate flooding, and youth literacy initiatives in the South Bronx. These projects, if funded, would significantly impact the lives of residents in the Bronx and Queens, the areas comprising the 14th Congressional District.

In a statement, Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez expressed gratitude to the community and government partners who collaborated on the submission process, emphasizing the importance of grassroots involvement in shaping policy decisions. She also acknowledged the efforts to ensure consideration for non-profit organizations, working closely with Senators Schumer and Gillibrand’s offices to advocate for their inclusion in the funding process.

The full list of nominated projects covers a diverse array of needs and initiatives, ranging from improving justice in the criminal legal system to enhancing coastal resilience and community development. Organizations such as the Bronx Defenders, New York City Department of Environmental Protection, and New York State Metropolitan Transit Authority are among those seeking funding to implement these vital projects.

Under guidelines issued by the House Appropriations Committee, each Representative can request funding for up to 15 projects within their community for consideration in the fiscal year 2025 budget. Eligibility for funding is limited to state and local governments and eligible non-profit entities, with strict criteria governing the selection process.

To inform their funding requests, Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez’s office conducted extensive outreach and engagement with eligible groups, ensuring that proposals were thoroughly vetted and aligned with community needs. Clear objectives characterized strong proposals, demonstrated community support, and the ability to effectively manage federal grants.

While the fate of these projects ultimately rests with Congress, the submission represents a significant step toward addressing the pressing challenges facing NY-14. Whether all 15 projects will receive funding remains to be seen, but Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez remains optimistic about the potential impact of these initiatives on her constituents.

For more information on the proposed projects and the guidelines governing Community Project Funding, visit here.

Stay tuned for updates as the appropriations process unfolds, with decisions expected to be made in the coming months.