Julie Tighe

Dec 10, 2024 | timesunion.com | Julie Tighe

Despite the shifting federal landscape, this election season also proved that Americans want strong environmental policies. Across the country, voters overwhelmingly backed ballot initiatives that dedicate tens of billions of dollars to clean energy, conservation and climate resilience. Here in New York, Suffolk County voters overwhelmingly passed a ballot initiative to protect clean water from nitrogen pollution and restore local bays and harbors.

Oct 29, 2024 | nydailynews.com | Julie Tighe |Amy Chester

Twelve years ago today, Superstorm Sandy made landfall and devastated New York City and surrounding communities. After 48 hours of pounding rain and a nearly 13-foot storm surge, it took five days to resume partial subway service, and some stations required years of repairs. The devastation caused by Superstorm Sandy was foreshadowing the fragility of our […]

Aug 7, 2024 | crainsnewyork.com | Julie Tighe

It was not all that long ago that the merits of climate science were hotly debated at the highest levels of government. We discussed global warming's impacts in terms of probability and best- and worst-case scenarios, with a sense that any effects were far off in the future. In the time it took our lexicon to shift from “global warming” to “climate change” to the more definitive “climate crisis,” the impacts have arrived on our shores and in our streets.

Jul 24, 2024 | timesunion.com | Julie Tighe

Five years ago, I witnessed the signing of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act into law. That moment marked the beginning of an ambitious journey to set New York on a path to a cleaner, greener and more sustainable future. As we celebrate the anniversary of this nation-leading legislation, it is vital to reflect on the progress we've been able to make and the road that lies ahead. The CLCPA wasn’t about setting easy goals.

Mar 20, 2024 | caribbeanlife.com | Adam Ganser |Julie Tighe |Michael Williams

Our Parks Department’s staffing levels have experienced a five-year decline, with this year being the lowest second only to drastic cuts in FY21, at the pandemic’s onset. The $25 million budget cuts announced in November inexplicably targeted the historically strapped agency, slashing its budget by 5% and eliminating key programs aimed at swim safety, maintenance of our city’s natural areas and crime reduction.