Ulster and Clinton Counties Receive Over $1 Million in Federal Grants

On September 30, 2026, Ulster and Clinton Counties in New York received over $1 million in federal grants as part of the Byrne Discretionary Community Project Grants. The grants aim to enhance the functioning of the criminal justice system in these regions, according to an announcement by First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III.

Clinton County was awarded $500,000 to acquire a mission-specific vessel designed for emergency response and patrolling the international border on Lake Champlain, which it shares with Vermont and Canada. "Keeping the beautiful waters of Lake Champlain safe for our residents and guests is a critical mission of the Sheriff’s office," said Clinton County Sheriff David Favro. The new vessel will bolster the county's ability to manage emergencies and maintain security on the lake.

Ulster County received $794,000 for the Sheriff's policing equipment and technology upgrades project. The funding will modernize several aspects of the county's emergency and law enforcement operations. This includes upgrading to next-generation 911 and phone systems, implementing a crisis intervention and overdose data platform, and acquiring mobile device forensic technology. Additionally, the county will procure a handheld Raman-based drug identification device and establish camera and automated license plate reader infrastructure.

The enhancements in Ulster County are expected to improve drug identification safety, strengthen crisis response, and enhance public safety operations across the predominantly rural area. "The Ulster County Sheriff’s Office is thankful to our partners in federal law enforcement for this funding," stated Ulster County Sheriff Juan Figueroa. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving the goals of the Byrne Discretionary Grants.

The Hudson Valley, where Ulster County is located, includes a significant portion of Interstate-87, a known drug trafficking route. The grant aims to bolster the region's ability to combat such activities and improve overall safety.

First Assistant United States Attorney Sarcone highlighted the importance of these grants in maintaining security across the Northern District of New York. "Having Lake Champlain adequately patrolled is essential to protecting the Canadian border," he said, noting the border's significance to national security.

These grants are part of a broader initiative by the Byrne Discretionary Grants Program, which provides funding for community projects designated in the Department of Justice Appropriations Acts. The program's objectives include improving the criminal justice system, preventing juvenile delinquency, and assisting crime victims.

The funding is expected to lead to safer drug identification, stronger crisis follow-up, better correctional awareness, and more coordinated public safety operations in both counties.