New York is trying to boost its ports and rail commerce with $121.6 million in funding, Gov. Kathy Hochul on Wednesday announced. 

Projects will be selected in a competitive process as the state seeks to strengthen safety at ports and make ports a "global commerce destination." Applications will be accepted through Oct. 6, Hochul's office said. 

"Sustained commerce is the lifeblood for our regional and state economy, and investing in our trade routes ensures that New York State can remain competitive on a national and global scale," Hochul said. "I urge anyone with qualifying projects to apply for this funding because modernizing our freight rail and port infrastructure is crucial - not just for the many businesses who depend on safe, reliable commerce routes - but for the quality of life of New Yorkers."

New York over the last several years has sought to bolster ports, especially those outside of New York City. Albany, for instance, has been a key waystation for transporting infrastructure for renewable energy projects like wind turbines to the New York City area. 

"Freight rail is a key component of our state's transportation network, and by making these smart investments we are creating jobs, ensuring continued economic growth, and reducing New York's carbon footprint by helping to take trucks off our roads," New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said. 

Projects like track and bridge rehabilitation, yard and terminal and siding construction as well as dredging and at-grade corssing for railroads are eligible for the funding.