The Town of East Hampton is now accepting applications for the first round of 2026 funding under the Community Preservation Fund Water Quality Improvement Program. Through this Request for Applications process, the town will award up to $1 million to support projects that improve water quality and protect local ponds, harbors, bays and groundwater.
Since 2019, the town has funded 55 water quality improvement projects totaling nearly $10 million. These projects have included septic system upgrades at community-serving facilities such as restaurants, schools, libraries, churches, marinas, and affordable housing complexes, with a focus on large-capacity systems and locations that have the greatest impact on water quality.
Funding awarded through this process has also supported stormwater abatement projects in priority areas, including Accabonac Harbor, Three Mile Harbor, Hog Creek, and Georgica Pond. These efforts include permeable reactive barriers and other treatment systems that have demonstrated measurable reductions in nitrogen before polluted groundwater reaches local waterways. In addition, the town has invested in aquatic habitat restoration initiatives such as eelgrass restoration, kelp grow-outs, floating wetlands, and green infrastructure projects like bioswales planted with native vegetation.
The town’s Septic Incentive Program has issued funding for 929 innovative and alternative septic system installations, totaling more than $14.7 million to date, with participation increasing each year. The town has also completed municipal septic upgrades at public facilities and advanced major stormwater improvement projects in Lake Montauk, Sag Harbor, Three Mile Harbor, and Accabonac Harbor.
“Clean water is at the heart of East Hampton’s environment and our way of life,” said Town Supervisor Kathee Burke-Gonzalez. “Our ponds, harbors, and groundwater support local wildlife, shape our landscape, and touch our neighborhoods and daily lives in real ways. Through this process, we are investing in projects that deliver meaningful, measurable improvements to water quality and protect the natural systems our community depends on. This work reflects our shared responsibility to care for this place and to pass on a healthier environment to future generations.”
The Request for Applications opened on December 15, 2025. Applications must be submitted no later than 3:00 p.m. on February 16, 2026.
Grant funding is available for eligible water quality improvement projects, including wastewater treatment improvements, nonpoint source pollution abatement, aquatic habitat restoration, and pollution prevention initiatives. Applications will be reviewed and scored by the Town’s Water Quality Technical Advisory Committee, with funding recommendations presented to the Town Board for consideration and approval.
The Request for Applications, eligibility requirements, and application materials are available on the town’s website.
Completed applications and supporting materials must be submitted electronically in one email to CPFGrant@ehamptonny.gov. Questions may be directed to the Town of East Hampton Natural Resources Department at 631-324-0496 or by email.