2026 Green Economy Bond

The health of our environment is at the heart of Rhode Islanders’ way of life. Our green spaces, outdoor recreation areas, and waterways provide more than scenic beauty and opportunities to enjoy the outdoors; they’re vital to our economy and make Rhode Island an attractive place to live, work, and raise a family. 

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RESILIENT RHODY INFRASTRUCTURE FUND: $25 MILLION administered by RI Infrastructure Bank (RIIB) to provide low-cost financing for infrastructure projects that reduce Rhode Island’s vulnerability to climate impacts. The fund supports investments aligned with the state’s Resilient Rhody climate resilience strategy, including upgrades that address flooding, coastal erosion, stormwater management, coastal hazards, and urban greening. This investment will fund matching grants of up to 75% to directly support Rhode Island’s cities and towns in preparing for rising seas and more frequent storms from climate change. 

STATE BEACHES, PARKS & CAMPGROUNDS: $12 MILLION investment in major capital improvements to state beach, park, and campground facilities. Rhode Island’s state park network attracts upwards of nine million visitors each year and serves as a major destination for residents and visitors alike. Rhode Island’s parks host nationally and internationally recognized events including Newport Folk and Jazz Festivals. Beyond recreation, they drive our state’s economy and help attract new people and businesses. Each year, our park system generates an estimated $312 million of economic output and supports over 3,700 jobs. 

NARRAGANSETT BAY WATERSHED RESTORATION: $7 MILLION for matching grants to public and private entities to restore and/or protect the health of Narragansett Bay and its watersheds. These investments will help keep our waters clean and safe for drinking water, shellfishing, recreation, business, and wildlife. Eligible projects include improving stormwater management, installing green infrastructure, restoring streams and aquatic habitats, controlling invasive aquatic plants, reducing runoff pollution, and reducing flood risks while making natural ecosystems healthier and more resilient. 

BROWNFIELDS: $3 MILLION in matching grants to clean up former industrial sites or “brownfields”  and return them into productive community spaces. These projects help revitalize our neighborhoods, return properties to tax rolls, and create jobs. The State has awarded over $20M to 87 different projects in 17 different cities and towns across Rhode Island through the Brownfields Remediation and Economic Development Fund, which often incorporate resiliency and promote environmental justice and equity. To date, these projects have created over 11,800 temporary and permanent jobs, leveraged nearly $1.51 billion in additional funding, and cleaned up nearly 376 acres of contaminated land on formerly vacant land, transforming them into new schools, businesses, affordable housing, and recreational spaces throughout the state.  

FARMLAND PRESERVATION: $3 MILLION to protect Rhode Island’s working farms through the Agricultural Lands Preservation Commission. Rhode Island has a thriving network of farmers and leads the nation in food-system planning and innovation – spurred by growing consumer demand for fresh, locally grown food. This program will protect farmland, enabling farmers to stay in business and keep land productive – which supports our local food system and jobs. 

OPEN SPACE: $3 MILLION investment to protect open space, farmland, watershed, and recreation lands through the State Land Acquisition Program. The funds help preserve critical natural resources while expanding opportunities for Rhode Islanders and visitors to hike, fish, hunt, and access locally grown agricultural products. Funds are matched by federal, local, and non-profit sources, typically with each $1 in state funding matched by $3 from other sources. Protecting open space preserves our natural environment, expands recreational opportunities, and is key to building a vibrant economy and quality of place. 

LOCAL RECREATION: $1 MILLION in matching grants to create new and improve existing community parks, playgrounds, athletic fields, and other recreation facilities. Since the Recreation Grant Program began in 1988, DEM has funded more than 582 projects, totaling more than $96 million in investments across all 39 communities. Outdoor recreation generates $2.4 billion in consumer spending and supports 24,000 local jobs, according to the Outdoor Industry Association. Studies show access to green space improves health, promotes stronger social ties, and enhances neighborhood satisfaction and pride.   

MARINE INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT: $1 MILLION for improvements to existing public boat ramps and floating dock facilities that have reached the end of their useful life and are beyond minor repairs. This funding will ensure continued safe public access to RI waterways.