The Brian Lehrer Show How Trump's Climate Cuts Will Impact NYC
Apr 15, 2025
Samantha Maldonado, senior reporter for THE CITY, sheds light on the recent federal cuts to FEMA that threaten over $300 million for New York City's climate resiliency. She discusses how these cuts hinder crucial infrastructure projects, increasing vulnerability to disasters like Hurricane Ida. The conversation also highlights the flooding challenges in Queens and the importance of cloudburst initiatives, while tackling the tension between housing development and resilient infrastructure. Maldonado emphasizes the need for accountability in fossil fuel use to combat climate change.
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FEMA Cuts Jeopardize NYC Projects
- FEMA's climate resilience funding cancellation threatens $300 million for NYC projects.
- These projects included flood barriers and stormwater upgrades designed to prevent disaster damage.
Cloudburst Projects Face Uncertainty
- Cloudburst projects in Queens capture millions of gallons of stormwater to prevent flooding.
- Two projects were ready for construction but now face uncertainty due to federal funding cuts.
Federal Criticism of Climate Grants
- The Trump administration labels climate resilience grants wasteful to justify cuts.
- Critics argue these bipartisan programs effectively protect vulnerable communities from climate harms.