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Bringing the best of the suburban shopping experience to the Bronx, the Mall at Bay Plaza is New York City’s first enclosed shopping mall in 40 years. The 780,000 square foot enclosed fashion center will provide a full range of range of shopping options and experiences for urban shoppers and those from nearby suburban Westchester County. Retailers include anchor tenants Macy’s and JC Penney as well as over 100 stores, restaurants, food court, and a health club. Light and bright, the design of three-level mall has an urban sophistication with a spacious feel. The mall is easy to access from two major highways, and provides over 2400 indoor parking spots for your convenience.

Quote of The Month

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams"
Eleanor Roosevelt

Sammy's Law: Paving the Way for Safer Streets in New York City

INITIAL PROPOSED LOCATIONS FOR REDUCED SPEEDS

The Bronx –

E 139 Street, from Willis Avenue to Alexander Avenue

Courtlandt Ave, E 156 St to E 157 St

E 151 St, Courtlandt Ave to Morris Ave –

E 156 St, Concourse Village W to Morris Ave

Gerard Ave, E 167 St to E 168 St

St Ann’s Ave, E 149 St to Westchester Ave

Tinton Ave, E 150 St to E 152 St

Sheridan Ave, E 171 St to E 172 St

Walton Ave, E 179 St to E 171 St

Prospect Ave, E 175 St to E Tremont Ave

Wallace Ave, Mace Ave to Waring Ave

E 225 St, White Plains Rd to Barnes Ave

E 172 St, St Lawrence Ave to Beach Ave

Netherland Ave, Kappock St to W 227 St

Reeds Mill Ln, Bivona St to Steenwich Ave

In the near future, certain areas of New York City will see speed limits significantly reduced to as low as 20 or even 10 mph, thanks to Sammy's Law. This legislation empowers the city to modify speed limits in specific zones for enhanced safety

In the near future, certain areas of New York City will see speed limits significantly reduced to as low as 20 or even 10 mph, thanks to Sammy’s Law. This legislation empowers the city to modify speed limits in specific zones for enhanced safety.

These designated zones include areas around certain schools, along with Open Streets, Shared Streets, and designated “Regional Slow Zones” across each borough. The inaugural “Regional Slow Zone” under consideration is in lower Manhattan, below Canal Street, with plans for implementation by the end of this year or the beginning of the next.

Speed limits on individual streets may be reduced to 20 mph, while specific streets undergoing safety modifications could see limits as low as 10 mph.

This summer, the NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) will start the process of engaging community boards with its proposals, followed by a 60-day period for public comment before any changes are made.

“New Yorkers deserve safe streets, regardless of their mode of transportation. Sammy’s Law is a vital step towards ensuring the safety of all, whether they’re in a car, on a bus, biking, or walking,” stated Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi.

“We owe a debt of gratitude to Families for Safe Streets and Amy Cohen, who has been a relentless advocate for the city’s ability to better regulate our speed limits in memory of her son, Sammy Cohen Eckstein,” added NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez.

Starting in September, after the public has had a chance to comment for 60 days, the NYC DOT will initiate the process of lowering speed limits at 250 locations, aiming to complete this task by the end of 2025.

INITIAL PROPOSED LOCATIONS FOR REDUCED SPEEDS

The Bronx
– E 139 Street, from Willis Avenue to Alexander Avenue

– Courtlandt Ave, E 156 St to E 157 St

– E 151 St, Courtlandt Ave to Morris Ave

– E 156 St, Concourse Village W to Morris Ave

– Gerard Ave, E 167 St to E 168 St

– St Ann’s Ave, E 149 St to Westchester Ave

– Tinton Ave, E 150 St to E 152 St

– Sheridan Ave, E 171 St to E 172 St

– Walton Ave, E 179 St to E 171 St

– Prospect Ave, E 175 St to E Tremont Ave

– Wallace Ave, Mace Ave to Waring Ave

– E 225 St, White Plains Rd to Barnes Ave

– E 172 St, St Lawrence Ave to Beach Ave

– Netherland Ave, Kappock St to W 227 St

– Reeds Mill Ln, Bivona St to Steenwich Ave

Valley Residents Rally Against Proposed Homeless Shelter Project

Residents of the tranquil Valley neighborhood are voicing strong opposition to the city’s recent proposal to construct a homeless shelter community in their residential area. Concerned homeowners have united to demand transparency and accountability from city officials regarding the project’s financial and operational plans.

The community’s apprehension stems from the proposed location’s proximity to family homes, raising questions about the impact on safety, cleanliness, and property values. In response, the Valley residents are requesting the release of several key documents, including financial records for the project, a list of all potential sites considered, and the specific criteria used for site selection.

Bernice Simmons, President of the 3100 Block Association, expressed the community’s frustration, stating, “Too often, the African American Community is dumped upon with unwanted projects such as this.” The sentiment reflects a broader concern that such developments are not equitably distributed across different neighborhoods.

The residents have outlined a comprehensive list of information they want publicized:

– Financial records for the project
– List of site locations considered for the project
– Criteria for selecting site locations
– Reasons for denying other site locations, while approving the one in “The Valley” Area
– Criteria for selecting service providers
– Details regarding the “24/7 security” promised at the site
– Entry requirements and application process for homeless individuals
– Plans for those who do not want or qualify to live in the shelter community
– Data demonstrating the project’s potential impact on the neighborhood

In an effort to amplify their concerns, the Valley residents have launched a petition, available at https://3100homeowners.now.site, urging the Bronx Community to sign and forward it to the office of Hon Carl Heastie.

The proposed shelter, intended to provide refuge for the homeless, has become a contentious issue, with residents seeking a balance between compassion for the homeless and the preservation of their community’s character. City officials have yet to respond to the demands for information and transparency.

For more information and to support the Valley residents’ cause, visit their website and consider signing the petition to ensure that community voices are heard in the decision-making process.

Air Quality Chart

https://www.airnow.gov/?city=Bronx&state=NY&country=USA

Con Edison Wins 2024 ReliabilityOne® Awards As Most Reliable Electric Provider in the Nation Company’s Service is Nearly Nine Times More Reliable Than Other NYS Electric Providers, 10 Times Better Than U.S. Average

NEW YORK – PA Consulting, the global innovation and transformation consultancy, announced Con Edison is the winner of its 2024 National ReliabilityOne® Award for providing the most reliable electric service in the nation. PA Consulting also selected Con Edison for its for Outstanding Reliability Performance in the Northeast Region Metropolitan Service Area.

“Con Edison has provided New Yorkers with reliable energy for more than 200 years,” said Lisa Primeggia, the company’s vice president, Manhattan Electric Operations. “These awards are a tribute to our strategic investments and our talented, diverse workforce. We will continue to invest to maintain the reliability our customers deserve and to build a clean energy future.”

PA Consulting makes the selections after in-depth analysis of reliability and outage information for electric providers across the United States.

The New York State Public Service Commission measures reliability by dividing the number of interruptions customers experience by the number of customers. Con Edison’s System Average Interruption Frequency Index number for 2023 was .11, while the figure for the rest of New York State was .94.

That means Con Edison’s service was nearly nine times more reliable as the service of the state’s other electric providers. The state figures do not include outages caused by major storms or snow and ice events that affect the underground electric delivery system.

Con Edison’s service was 10 times more reliable than the service of electric delivery companies across the nation in 2022, based on a report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

The coveted annual awards go to utilities that demonstrate outstanding reliability and excel in providing the most dependable electric service to their customers.

All utilities operating dense electric delivery networks in North America are eligible for consideration for the ReliabilityOne® Award for service in a metro area. There are eight metropolitan service regional awards including Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, Plains, Mountains, West, Southeast, and Southwest.

After provisional recipients are selected, each company undergoes a certification process that provides an independent review and confirmation of the policies, processes and systems used to collect, analyze and report a company’s reliability results.

Con Edison is a subsidiary of Consolidated Edison, Inc. [NYSE: ED], one of the nation’s largest investor-owned energy companies, with approximately $15 billion in annual revenues for the year-end 2023 and $69 billion in assets as of September 30, 2024. The utility delivers electricity, natural gas, and steam, and serves 3.7 million customers in New York City and Westchester County. For financial, operations, and customer service information, visit conEd.com.

About PA Consulting

We believe in the power of ingenuity to build a positive human future. As strategies, technologies, and innovation collide, we create opportunity from complexity. Our diverse teams of experts combine innovative thinking and breakthrough technologies to progress further, faster. Our clients adapt and transform, and together we achieve enduring results. We are over 4,000 strategists, innovators, designers, consultants, digital experts, scientists, engineers, and technologists. And we have deep expertise in consumer and manufacturing, defense and security, energy and utilities, financial services, government and public services, health and life sciences, and transport. Our teams operate globally from offices across the US, UK, Ireland, Nordics, and Netherlands. Discover more at paconsulting.com and connect with PA on LinkedIn and X. PA. Bringing Ingenuity to Life.

PA Consulting’s ReliabilityOne® awards are presented to electric utilities providing their customers with the highest levels of reliability in the industry. PA Consulting’s ReliabilityOne® study is based on standard industry reliability statistics that measure the frequency and duration of electric power outages. As a group, ReliabilityOne® participants on average experienced over 50% fewer sustained outages, and their collective system saw 60% shorter outage durations than the average US investor owned utility. PA Consulting has been analyzing electric utility performance since 1987. For more information about PA Consulting, visit https://www.paconsulting.com/industries/energy-and-utilities

CON EDISON PROVIDES $9 MILLION TO JUMP-START FIRST STUDENT SCHOOL BUS ELECTRIFICATION IN BROOKLYN

Partnership With First Student Will Improve Air Quality,
Reduce Noise & Advance New York’s Clean Energy Goals

NEW YORK – Twelve electric school buses will take students to class in Brooklyn, thanks to a pioneering partnership between Con Edison and First Student, North America’s largest school transportation provider.

A group of school buses parked in a parking lot

Description automatically generatedThis initiative, supported by a $9 million investment by Con Edison, marks an important step toward a reduction in pollution and noise level, replacing diesel-fueled school buses.

Currently, four of the electric buses are operational, with plans to have the entire fleet of 12 up and running by next school year. These electric buses produce zero emissions, effectively eliminating the release of harmful pollutants into the air our children breathe.

“New York’s children and families deserve clean air, which is why we are proud to partner with First Student to launch more electric school buses on our streets,” said Britt Reichborn-Kjennerud, director, E-Mobility, Con Edison. “Con Edison will continue to make critical investments in clean energy so that every New Yorker can have a higher quality of life and thrive in communities free from the harmful impacts of pollution.”

“This project showcases the innovative potential of electrification in urban areas like Brooklyn, where space is limited, and the demand for clean energy is high,” said First Student CEO and President John Kenning. “By combining solar power with electric school buses and our advanced First Charge solution, we’re not only reducing emissions but also creating a smart energy hub that supports the local grid and enhances community resilience. This demonstration project paves the way for sustainable transportation solutions that can be replicated in cities across the country, all while providing students with a cleaner, quieter, and safer ride to school.”

“What a win for the health and safety of New York’s students and the bus staff who transport them to school,” said Mayor’s Office of Climate & Environmental Justice Executive Director Elijah Hutchinson. “This project builds off the great work our office has been doing convening school bus vendors, connecting them to funding and financing opportunities, and supporting them with applying for over 1,400 electric school buses. When we all work together, we can clean the air we breathe and get us closer to our ambitious goal of electrifying the nation’s largest school bus fleet by 2035.”

The electrification of school buses and other medium- and heavy-duty fleets is consistent with Con Edison’s Clean Energy Commitment and advances New York State’s clean energy goals.

The benefits of electric school buses are extensive, from improving air quality and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, to saving school districts money and creating clean energy manufacturing jobs and quieter communities.

The buses will be charged using smart energy management software, which will allow First Student to reduce electric bills without compromising operational needs.

Each bus will have solar panels atop its roof. In addition, First Student will charge the buses at a depot on Malta Street with power from a 500-kilowatt solar array. The depot will also have a two-megawatt battery that will discharge power into the buses’ batteries. (A kilowatt is 1,000 watts, while a megawatt is a million watts.)

The project will provide Con Edison with valuable information as the company prepares its grid for the coming influx of electric vehicles, including medium- and heavy-duty truck and bus fleets.

Electric school buses have a much greater fuel efficiency than diesel buses – around 2.17 kWh per mile, or 17.35 miles per diesel gallon equivalent (DGE). A standard diesel bus has a fuel efficiency of about 4.2 miles per DGE, which is four times less efficient than its electric counterpart.

Diesel emissions contribute to heart disease, asthma and other illnesses and are especially dangerous for young children and bus drivers. The electricity that powers these buses and other EVs will increasingly be produced by clean energy as New York transitions its energy portfolio.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, diesel exhaust carries acid rain, which enters the human food chain, and contributes to ground-level ozone, which damages crops and trees.

The puffs of black smoke that come out through the tailpipe of a diesel vehicle also contain nitrogen oxides, which cause and aggravate respiratory illnesses and contribute to climate change.

Caption: First Student electric school buses featuring rooftop solar panels at a charging depot. For illustrative purposes only.

Con Edison is a subsidiary of Consolidated Edison, Inc. [NYSE: ED], one of the nation’s largest investor-owned energy companies, with approximately $15 billion in annual revenues for the year-end 2023 and $68 billion in assets as of June 30, 2024. The utility delivers electricity, natural gas and steam, and serves 3.7 million customers in New York City and Westchester County. For financial, operations and customer service information, visit
ConEd.com.

As the leading school transportation solutions provider in North America, First Student strives to provide unmatched care and the safest ride to school to 5.5 million students every day. With a team of highly trained drivers, the company will complete 1 billion student trips during the 2024-25 school year. First Student delivers reliable, quality services, including full-service transportation and management, special-needs transportation, fleet electrification, route optimization, and scheduling, maintenance, and charter services with a fleet of about 45,000 buses. For more information, visit firststudentinc.com.

CON EDISON OFFERS CUSTOMERS PROGRAMS TO HELP THEM SAVE ENERGY AND MONEY THIS WINTER Company Offers Payment Plans, Budget Billing, Low-Income Discounts; Customers Can Save with Careful Usage, Energy Efficiency Programs

Company Offers Payment Plans, Budget Billing, Low-Income Discounts;

Customers Can Save with Careful Usage, Energy Efficiency Programs

NEW YORK – Con Edison encourages customers to use energy wisely and save money once winter’s chill hits the region. And Con Edison can help.

Con Edison offers some of the most robust energy efficiency programs in the country and urges customers to find one that works for them. The programs pay incentives to customers who upgrade their lighting, HVAC systems and other equipment.

Customers can follow the company’s energy saving tips to help them manage their usage and costs while also protecting the environment.

Helping customers save on electricity and natural gas fits well with Con Edison’s environmental stewardship and support for the state’s clean energy goals, as the company makes clear in its Clean Energy Commitment.

As New York State transitions to renewables, Con Edison continues to invest in its gas delivery system to keep it safe and reliable. Many gas customers rely on natural gas for heat. Natural gas also powers electric generation plants and many customers rely on electric heat.

The company offers payment assistance options, including budget billing, which smooths a customer’s costs out throughout the year.

Helping Vulnerable Customers

Con Edison understands that energy costs can be a hardship, particularly for low- and moderate-income customers, and offers options to help.

Customers who have fallen behind on their bills can get on a payment plan or get a payment extension. A payment plan allows a customer to pay off arrears over time. Payment extensions give customers up to 10 extra days to pay their bills.

It is important for customers who are falling behind on bills to contact Con Edison early, before the arrears pile up.

Customers who receive benefits from certain government assistance programs can qualify for the company’s Energy Affordability Program to keep energy costs at or below 6 percent of average annual income.

The Home Energy Assistance Program provides benefits to qualified low-income customers to help cover heating costs during the winter months.

Con Edison offers protections during cold weather and payment programs for seniors, households with children, people with disabilities and customers experiencing medical emergencies.

Manage Usage, Manage Bills

The best strategy for Con Edison’s 3.7 million customers to manage their winter bills is to manage their usage. Customers can save money by using these tips:

Set thermostats at the lowest comfortable temperature. Each degree higher increases heating costs.
Clear area around heating and cooling vents. Carpets, furniture, and other objects can block vents and prevent heated air from circulating in your home.
Have a qualified contractor clean and inspect heating systems.
Insulate hot-water pipes and warm-air ducts that pass through unheated areas. Clean or replace filters for the hot-air furnace and heat pump.
Swap out window shades seasonally. Light-colored window coverings reflect the sun’s energy, while darker ones absorb it and release heat.
Replace conventional light bulbs with LED bulbs, which are up to 10 times more efficient, and widely available.
Unplug electronics when they’re not in use. Some high-energy devices like computers, televisions, and game consoles use electricity even when they’re turned off.
Maximize your home’s efficiency and improve comfort with proper insulation and air sealing. You’ll save energy and money year-round. Learn more: conEd.com/WeatherReady. Old or improperly installed insulation can lead to a loss of up to 30 percent of your home’s heating or air conditioning.

Winter Bills

Con Edison buys natural gas and electricity on the wholesale markets and uses a variety of strategies to stabilize pricing for customers. The company does not set supply costs and does not make a profit on the supply.

Energy costs are volatile and can fluctuate due to economic trends, weather, geopolitical turmoil like what is taking place in Ukraine and the Middle East and other factors.

The delivery charges are set by the New York State Public Service Commission following an in-depth, public process.

The company projects that a residential natural gas heating customer using an average of 158 therms per month will pay $398.88 a month from November 2024 to March 2025, 3.1 percent more than the average bill of $386.76 last winter.

A New York City residential electric customer using 280 kilowatt hours a month this winter will pay about $117.71, a 0.2 percent increase over last winter’s $117.51 based on the projections.

A Westchester County residential customer using 425 kilowatt hours a month will have an average bill of $153.64, a 3.7 percent increase over last winter’s $148.16, based on latest estimates.

A residential low-income customer who qualifies for the Energy Affordability Program can receive a discount up to $178 per month, based on qualifying tier.

For a small commercial customer in New York City using 583 kilowatt hours per month, bills are projected to rise $23.89, or 10.5 percent, from $227.55 last winter to $251.44.

A larger commercial customer in New York City using 10,800 kilowatt hours with a peak demand of 31 kilowatts will see an increase of $37.30, or 1.3 percent, from $2,973.34 to $3,010.64.

Con Edison expects to have adequate supplies of natural gas this winter to reliably serve its 1.1 million gas customers.

Con Edison is a subsidiary of Consolidated Edison, Inc. [NYSE: ED], one of the nation’s largest investor-owned energy companies, with approximately $15 billion in annual revenues for the year-end 2023 and $68 billion in assets as of June 30, 2024. The utility delivers electricity, natural gas and steam, and serves 3.7 million customers in New York City and Westchester County. For financial, operations and customer service information, visit conEd.com.

CON EDISON NAMES CAROLYN VADINO VICE PRESIDENT, COMMUNICATIONS

NEW YORK – Con Edison announced today that Carolyn Vadino has been named Vice President of Communications for the company. The newly created role will report to Jen Hensley, Con Edison’s senior vice president, Corporate Affairs, and will lead the company’s internal and external communications efforts. Vadino most recently served as managing director, global head of commercial communications at BlackRock.

“We are excited to welcome Carolyn to Con Edison,” said Hensley. “She brings a wealth of communications experience across public and private sectors and has driven innovative programs that have elevated missions and brands. She will be instrumental in partnering with our business to tell the Con Edison story, which is deeply rooted in its 200+ year history and anchored in its commitment to provide safe, reliable, and affordable energy services to all of its customers.”

“Con Edison powers the best city in the world and is a key partner in helping the State of New York deliver on its ambitious energy transition goals,” said Vadino. “I am honored to join this talented team to continue to tell its story of growth and innovation and to support the business as it helps New York and Westchester achieve a cleaner energy future.”

Prior to BlackRock, Vadino held senior communications and marketing positions at organizations including Gemini, Aon, Deloitte, and the U.S. Department of State, among others. Vadino earned a Bachelor of Science degree in journalism at West Virginia University. She lives with her family in Brooklyn.

Con Edison is a subsidiary of Consolidated Edison, Inc. [NYSE: ED], one of the nation’s largest investor-owned energy companies, with approximately $15 billion in annual revenues for the year-end 2023 and $68 billion in assets as of June 30, 2024. The utility delivers electricity, natural gas and steam, and serves 3.7 million customers in New York City and Westchester County. For financial, operations and customer service information, visit conEd.com.

CON EDISON CUSTOMERS SHINE DURING CLIMATE WEEK; THE FUTURE FOR GREEN ENERGY SOLUTIONS IS BRIGHT

Company Has Major Infrastructure Projects Underway;

Clean Energy Transition Creates Jobs & Drives the Economy

NEW YORK – Con Edison’s Clean Energy Update for the second quarter, coinciding with Climate Week, highlights customers’ achievements in reducing their carbon footprint and advancing the transition to reliable, clean energy solutions.

Con Edison has provided customers with incentives for more than 8,400 electric vehicle chargers and more than 70,000 customer solar projects. Those solar arrays have the capacity to produce 622.6 megawatts of clean, renewable solar power. That’s more than 5 times the energy needed to power Times Square.

Customers in Queens lead the way, completing 23,852 solar projects through the second quarter of 2024. Westchester’s 12,617 projects have the capacity to generate the most power at 166.4 megawatts.

In Brooklyn, the company continues work on its Clean Energy Hub, an $810 million transmission substation that will be the first offshore wind interconnection point within the five boroughs. Creating more than 500 skilled labor jobs at peak construction, the Hub will be able to accommodate up to 1,500 megawatts or enough electricity to power 750,000 homes.

“During Climate Week and all year round, the women and men of Con Edison are sharing energy solutions with New Yorkers,” said Matt Ketschke, president of Con Edison. “We continue to build partnerships with communities, academics, industry leaders, policymakers, advocates, and other stakeholders and are pleased to serve as a resource for collaborating, innovating, problem solving and taking action to advance New York’s clean energy future.”

Con Edison’s employees and clean energy experts will participate in dozens of events across the region during climate week. The company is also proud to support efforts by its partners to promote climate awareness and award-winning solutions including: the Trust for Public Land, Green City Force, Urban Design Forum, New York Botanical Garden and more.

Con Edison Initiatives

Con Edison continues to advance projects aligned with its commitment to clean energy.

Reliable Clean City (RCC) Projects

In October, the company will host an official groundbreaking ceremony on the Reliable Clean City Idlewild Project, an indoor, storm hardened 138kV transmission substation which will allow additional Points of Interconnection for energy storage, future clean energy projects. It will also include a second substation. This $1.2 billion investment will modernize the electric grid, advance the clean energy transition, and create more than 400 skilled union labor jobs at peak-construction.

The nine-mile Goethals to Fox Hills Reliable Clean City transmission project is on track for completion this year. This project will meet the increasing energy needs of our customers.

Construction of the mile-long Gowanus to Greenwood Reliable Clean City transmission line continues. It will be the interconnection point for 810 megawatts of offshore wind from the Empire Wind project.

Customer Initiatives

Con Edison customers continue to choose solar, battery storage, electric vehicles and chargers, and clean heat options when making decisions about technologies that work best for them.

Solar Generation

Con Edison customers are capturing the sun’s energy at a record pace.

Staten Island was second only to Queens within 13,424 projects installed and 121.5 megawatts of capacity.

Battery Storage

Con Edison customers installed 53 megawatts of storage capacity through the second quarter. Westchester customers lead the region with 589 of the 653 battery storage projects with the capacity to store 14.2 megawatts.

The company has also installed 9.5 megawatts of utility-owned storage for a total storage capacity of 62.5 megawatts.

Con Edison continues to work with state and local partners to make it easier for customers to install solar and battery storage projects.

For customers with low incomes thinking of adding solar and/or battery storage the company’s Distributed Energy Resources Make Ready program offers incentives to cover all, or a portion of, utility-side upgrade costs for installing solar and/or an energy storage system.

Electric Vehicles & Charging

Con Edison’s PowerReady program has provided incentives nearly 8,000 Level 2 and 400 DC Fast chargers. Of the charging plugs installed, 3,021 EV chargers are in disadvantaged communities and 1,898 are publicly accessible.

Every EV that replaces a gasoline- or diesel-powered vehicle means cleaner air for local communities and less greenhouse gas emissions fueling climate change.

Con Edison has completed 116 fleet site assessments year-to-date. That more than doubled the assessments completed in the same time frame as last year. Site assessments are a free, preliminary service that provides a high-level desktop review of the utility-side work and timelines required to support a proposed EV project.

More than one third of the company’s internal combustion engine light-duty vehicle fleet has been replaced with electric vehicles. The company’s commitment is to have 80 percent of its light-duty fleet electrified by 2030 and 100 percent by 2035.

Clean Heat

Con Edison’s Clean Heat program more than doubled the number of projects acquired in the first quarter of this year. The program offers incentives for customers who replace their fossil-fuel powered HVAC systems and water heaters with heat pumps. Heat pumps move energy from the air or stored in the earth to provide heating and cooling.

In the first half of 2024, customers completed 4,240 heat pump projects with a $40 million investment including incentives and outreach efforts to build awareness and encourage customer adoption.

Of the 4,240 pumps installed, more than 4,150 were air source heat pumps. Ground source heat pumps were a distant second with 77 installations, followed by seven heat pump water heaters.

Con Edison is a subsidiary of Consolidated Edison, Inc. [NYSE: ED], one of the nation’s largest investor-owned energy companies, with approximately $15 billion in annual revenues for the year-end 2023 and $68 billion in assets as of June 30, 2024. The utility delivers electricity, natural gas and steam, and serves 3.7 million customers in New York City and Westchester County. For financial, operations and customer service information, visit conEd.com.

PSC Directs Con Edison, O&R to Take Next Steps on Natural Gas Planning Action Will Help the Two Utilities Meet New York’s Nation-Leading Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Targets

ALBANY — In advance of Climate Week, the New York State Public Service Commission (Commission) today directed Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc. (Con Edison) and Orange and Rockland Utilities, Inc. (O&R) to provide additional information and to propose pilot programs to take steps toward decarbonizing the gas systems in their service territories. The natural gas plan and the actions directed in this order constitute important steps in the process of decarbonizing the companies’ systems and toward achieving the greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets established in the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (Climate Act).

“The action taken by the Commission today will ensure that gas utilities continue to provide safe, adequate, and reliable service while striving to meet the State’s greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets,” said Commission Chair Rory M. Christian. “Modernizing gas planning procedures is important because it subjects local gas distribution companies’ long-term plans to transparent review. In addition, it ensures that they conform to State policies while allowing gas utilities to continue to provide safe and adequate service.”

Additionally, today’s action will require the companies to move forward with a strategy to lower their greenhouse gas emissions and to provide bill impact analyses, a definition for hard-to-electrify customers, propose pilot demand response programs, and file a non-pipes alternative deployment plan, among other actions. The two companies combined serve approximately 1.2 million natural gas customers in New York State. Con Edison is the largest utility in New York State.

This year, Climate Week will be held Sept. 22 through Sept. 29. The purpose of Climate Week is to draw attention to climate change and to drive climate action forward.

The review of Con Edison’s and O&R’s long-term gas plans has been detailed and thorough. A public information session and multiple stakeholder technical conferences were held to gain stakeholder input. More than 500 public comments were received, in addition to approximately 29 reply comments of stakeholders. The Commission engaged a consultant, PA Consulting, to assist in the review.

New York State’s Nation-Leading Climate Plan

New York State’s climate agenda calls for an orderly and just transition that creates family-sustaining jobs, continues to foster a green economy across all sectors and ensures that a minimum of 35 percent, with a goal of 40 percent, of the benefits of clean energy investments are directed to disadvantaged communities. Guided by some of the nation’s most aggressive climate and clean energy initiatives, New York is advancing a suite of efforts – including the New York Cap-and-Invest program (NYCI) and other complementary policies – to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 40 percent by 2030 and 85 percent by 2050 from 1990 levels. New York is also on a path toward a zero-emission electricity sector by 2040, including 70 percent renewable energy generation by 2030, and economy-wide carbon neutrality by mid-century. A cornerstone of this transition is New York’s unprecedented clean energy investments, including more than $28 billion in 61 large-scale renewable and transmission projects across the State, $6.8 billion to reduce building emissions, $3.3 billion to scale up solar, nearly $3 billion for clean transportation initiatives and over $2 billion in NY Green Bank commitments. These and other investments are supporting more than 170,000 jobs in New York’s clean energy sector as of 2022 and over 3,000 percent growth in the distributed solar sector since 2011. To reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality, New York also adopted zero-emission vehicle regulations, including requiring all new passenger cars and light-duty trucks sold in the State be zero emission by 2035. Partnerships are continuing to advance New York’s climate action with more than 400 registered and more than 130 certified Climate Smart Communities, over 500 Clean Energy Communities, and the State’s largest community air monitoring initiative in 10 disadvantaged communities across the State to help target air pollution and combat climate change.

CON EDISON’S JAMES WONG RECOGNIZED AS AN OUTSTANDING ASIAN-AMERICAN BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL

New York – Con Edison celebrates James Wong, who rose from meter reader to staff attorney at the energy company, as he is recognized as an Outstanding Asian American by the Asian American Business Development Center (AABDC).

Recipients of the award represent the best of Asian-American corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and professionals who have positively contributed to Asian-American communities and the U.S. economy, according to the AABDC.

“I believe that appreciating others—whether by serving communities, immersing in diverse cultures, or understanding what makes people tick—is key to a fulfilling life, both professionally and personally,” said Wong.

He’s followed that principle since he started at Con Edison in 2002 as a Customer Field Representative, also known as a meter reader. From there, he became a Meter Operations Supervisor, then an Environment, Health, and Safety Administrator. After earning his law degree, he assumed a Compliance Requirements Manager position before transitioning to a Staff Attorney in Energy and Environmental Law. Wong’s current responsibilities include advancing the clean energy transition and ensuring reliability in the energy sector. He additionally provides support on electric, customer, and infrastructure matters in an upcoming Con Edison rate case.

Wong also serves as Con Edison’s liaison with the Asian American Bar Association of New York, where he promotes awareness of the significant role Asian American attorneys play in meeting the needs of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community.

“As a first-generation Asian American, I prioritize continuous improvement to honor my family’s struggle to immigrate and establish themselves in the United States,” he said. Along the way, Wong used his proficiency in Cantonese to serve the Chinatown community in Manhattan, and elsewhere, while also aiding asylum seekers escaping persecution to avoid deportation.

What’s more, Wong also provides legal assistance to veterans and transgender individuals, judges high school Constitutional law debates, and advocates for low-income clients seeking resources such as Medicaid from the City of New York.

“I also enjoy DJing with vinyl records, which I collect while traveling the U.S. and overseas,” he said.

Con Edison is a subsidiary of Consolidated Edison, Inc. [NYSE: ED], one of the nation’s largest investor-owned energy companies, with approximately $15 billion in annual revenues for the year-end 2023 and $68 billion in assets as of June 30, 2024. The utility delivers electricity, natural gas and steam, and serves 3.7 million customers in New York City and Westchester County. For financial, operations and customer service information, visit conEd.com.

CON EDISON IS AN ECONOMIC ENGINE POWERING NEW YORK JOBS & CLEAN ENERGY TRANSITION Economic Impact Report: Company Contributes $22.6B in Economic Activity; Supports More Than 38,000 Jobs in 2023

NEW YORK – Con Edison contributed $22.6 billion in economic impact to New York State in 2023. The company’s investments in the clean energy transition, and in resiliency projects that protect system reliability during more extreme weather conditions drove a 20 percent increase ($3.8 billion) over 2021, according to an economic impact report released today.

The company supports 38,600 jobs in New York State and spent $1.1 billion in contracts with businesses in the five boroughs and Westchester County.

It also increased its contracts with Small, and Minority- and Women-Owned Businesses, the backbone of the New York City economy, by 45 percent from 2021 to 2023 to more than $550 million.

Con Edison also delivered more than $3.3 billion in tax revenue paid by customers to New York City to support city services, including $2.4 billion in property taxes alone. Con Edison customers are responsible for 4 percent of New York City’s tax revenue, nearly enough to cover the budgets of FDNY (Fire Department of New York) and DSNY (NYC Sanitation Department) combined.

“This report shows the essential role that Con Edison plays in our region’s vibrant economy and in making this the best place in the world to live, work and visit,” said Tim Cawley, chairman and CEO of Con Edison. “Our investments reflect our values and the values of our customers. We support Small, and Minority- and Women-Owned Businesses, create jobs and facilitate the payment of billions of dollars a year in taxes to support the communities we serve, all while leading the transition to clean energy. We are demonstrating that the people of Con Edison, and the services we provide help local businesses prosper, lift incomes for more New Yorkers, and support more investment in our local community.”

The Economic Impact Report created by HR&A Advisors, Inc. (HR&A) for Con Edison quantifies the company’s economic and fiscal impacts to customers, retirees, unions, shareholders, and industry and civic associations in 2023. This is the second report HR&A submitted to Con Edison. The first was in 2021.

“Con Edison contributes to New York’s economy in ways that positively impact the millions of New Yorkers it serves,” said Kate Wittels, partner at HR&A. “As Con Edison continues investing in its system to serve customers during more extreme weather events, and enabling its customers transition to clean energy, the company’s impact on the state’s economy will continue to grow, proving that New York’s clean energy transition is an economic development driver and an environmental policy.”

Purchasing Power: Small Businesses and M/WBEs

In 2023, the company spent $1.1 billion with companies in Westchester County and the five boroughs of New York, with another $700 million spent with companies located elsewhere in New York State.

31 percent of Con Edison’s in-state contracts were awarded to M/WBEs and small businesses in 2023. The company has invested significantly in developing its relationships with M/WBEs and small businesses through our supplier diversity program. Con Edison encourages suppliers to reach out if they are interested in doing business with the company.

Jobs

The report found that Con Edison supports 38,600 jobs in New York State, including direct, indirect, and induced jobs. For every Con Edison employee, the company supports another 1.9 jobs in New York State. That number reflects an 18 percent increase in total jobs since 2021 including 1,000 direct jobs.

80 percent of Con Edison’s workforce lives in New York State.
More than 75 percent graduated from New York State-based public and private colleges and universities.
59 percent of Con Edison’s employees are people of color.
23 percent are female.

“We applaud Con Edison for being a critical industry partner in supporting Mayor Adams’ vision to create a more inclusive economy where all New Yorkers can share in our economic growth and prosperity, and today’s announcement further demonstrates the integral role Con Edison continues to play for our city’s people and businesses,” said Abby Jo Sigal, executive director of the NYC Mayor’s Office of Talent and Workforce Development. “For generations, Con Edison has been a source of good paying, union jobs that have provided pathways to economic mobility, and its recent commitments to invest in clean energy and support disadvantaged communities will help make the city more sustainable, prosperous and inclusive as we transition to the green economy of the future.”

Con Edison works with organized labor to ensure jobs are high quality, safe, and family-sustaining. More than 55 percent of Con Edison’s workforce is represented by the Utility Workers Union of America and International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. This level of representation is more than 2.5 times the industry average.

Con Edison is helping New York meet its urgent need for clean energy workers by investing in green job training, with a focus on helping residents of disadvantaged communities.

Over the next three years 1,200 individuals will have the tools they need to begin their careers in energy and technology. Through Con Edison’s $4 million in grants, four New York nonprofit organizations will support clean energy and technology workforce training for people in disadvantaged communities.

Taxes

Con Edison facilitated the payment of $4.4 billion in taxes and fees in 2023. Of these, $2.4 billion is New York City property taxes, which represents 8 percent of the total property taxes New York City collected. Con Edison customers are paying 11 times the amount paid by the City’s luxury hotels, as a point of comparison. And the City’s assessment on Con Edison infrastructure continues to grow, with 2023 tax payments 14 percent higher than in the prior report.

Protecting the Most Vulnerable New Yorkers

Con Edison advances environmental justice in its service territory through clean energy programs that benefit customers in communities New York State identified as disadvantaged.

The company encourages low-income customers and those living in disadvantaged communities to take advantage of programs and incentives for energy efficiency improvements, financial assistance on customer bills, and workforce development programs.

Con Edison invested $658 million in disadvantaged communities on clean energy and electric infrastructure improvements in 2023, and more than $34 million in energy efficiency incentives benefited low- and moderate-income households.

477,000 low-income customers receive rate discounts totaling over $266 million on their energy bills through programs administered by Con Edison.

Creating Financial Security for City and State Pensioners
In addition to spending from Con Edison’s operations, the New York economy benefits from the dividend payments and value appreciation of Con Edison stock, which provides financial security for millions of shareholders, including more than 731,000 current and former New York and New Jersey public sector employees through city and state pension funds.

About the Economic Impact Report

HR&A Advisors, Inc. analysis incorporated findings from a wide range of datasets and industry-standard economic impact assessment tools to evaluate the economic and fiscal impacts of Con Edison to New York City, Westchester, and New York State in 2023.

About HR&A

HR&A Advisors, Inc. is an employee-owned company advising visionary clients on how to create vital places, build equitable and resilient communities, and improve people’s lives. They have conducted similar economic and fiscal impact studies for a wide range of organizations — from real estate developers and municipalities to tech companies and non-profits — in cities around the country. Learn more at www.hraadvisors.com.

About Con Edison

Con Edison is a subsidiary of Consolidated Edison, Inc. [NYSE: ED], one of the nation’s largest investor-owned energy companies, with approximately $15 billion in annual revenues and $68 billion in assets. The utility delivers electricity, natural gas, and steam, and serves 3.7 million customers in New York City and Westchester County. For financial, operations and customer service information, visit conEd.com. For energy efficiency information, visit coned.com/energyefficiency.

CON EDISON CREWS RESTORING CUSTOMERS IN WESTCHESTER COUNTY Company Reminds Customers to Stay Safe and Report Outages

NEW YORK – Con Edison crews have restored service to nearly 9,000 customers in Westchester County and are working to restore the approximately 2,600 customers who remain out of service.

Heavy rain and strong winds pushed tree limbs into overhead power lines. The damage caused over 11,600 customers in Westchester County to lose power with White Plains, Scarsdale, and New Castle being among the hardest-hit communities. The number of customers out of service in Westchester reached 7,700 early this evening.

Con Edison crews, supplemented by 660 outside workers, will work around the clock to get customers back in service. Throughout Con Edison’s service territory, company crews restored service to over 12,500 customers and are working to restore the remaining 3,400 without service. .

The company urges members of the public to stay away from downed wires. They may be live. For your safety, we may guard downed wires until crews make repairs. Our personnel may be in unmarked cars but will always have Con Edison identification.

Restoring service

The priority for restoration will be critical customer facilities that have an impact on the public, such as mass transit, hospitals, police and fire stations, and sewage and water-pumping stations. Crews will then prioritize repairs that will provide power to the largest numbers of customers as quickly as possible, then move on to restore smaller groups and individual customers.

Reporting an outage

Customers can sign up for text alerts at coned.com/text. Customers can also report outages and check service restoration status at conEd.com/reportoutage, or with Con Edison’s mobile app for iOS or Android devices, or by calling 1-800-75-CONED (1-800-752-6633).

Customers who report outages will receive updates from Con Edison with their estimated restoration times as they become available. Information on outages and restoration times is also available at the Con Edison outage map.

Safety Tips

Do not go near downed electrical wires. Treat downed wires as if they are live. Never attempt to move them or touch them with any object. Be mindful that downed wires can be hidden from view by tree limbs, leaves or water.
Report downed wires to Con Edison and your local police department immediately. If a power line falls on your car while you’re in it, stay inside the vehicle and wait for emergency personnel.
Members of the public should also avoid transformers that are brought to the ground. The transformers are gray metal drums attached to the wires and poles.
If your power goes out, disconnect or turn off appliances that would otherwise turn on automatically when service is restored. If several appliances start up at once, the electric circuits may overload.
Charge your cellphones and other mobile devices while you have power.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing and using a portable generator. Never plug a generator into a wall unit, use it indoors or set it up outdoors near open home windows or air-handling vents.
Make sure your flashlights and any battery-operated radios are working. Have a supply of extra batteries. Weather updates and news on electrical service can be heard on local radio and television stations.
For more storm tips and preparation, go to www.conEd.com
The company is in contact with New York City Emergency Management and the Westchester County Department of Emergency Services to coordinate storm-response if needed.

CON EDISON RESTORING CUSTOMERS FOLLOWING DAMAGING WINDS AND DRENCHING RAINSTORMS

Company Issues Estimated Times of Restoration for Westchester County

NEW YORK – Con Edison has restored service to nearly 17,000 customers and is working to restore the remaining approximately 2,100 customers who lost power during the rain and windstorm that hit the New York region overnight.

The company issued an estimated time of restoration of midnight tonight for 95% of Westchester County. Con Edison continues to restore customers in other regions. For more information, check the outage map.

At its peak, the storm knocked out power to 14,000 customers in Westchester County. There are currently 2,000 customers currently without power in Westchester County, primarily in Croton, New Castle and Ossining.

The extensive rainfall and strong wind gusts that slammed the tri-state area Friday evening pushed tree limbs onto overhead electric delivery system equipment, causing outages. Con Edison crews, supplemented by over 600 mutual aid workers, will continue to work around the clock removing fallen trees and making repairs to get customers back in service.

Restoring service

The priority for restoration is critical customer facilities that have an impact on the public, such as mass transit, hospitals, police and fire stations, and sewage and water-pumping stations. Crews are prioritizing repairs that provide power to the largest numbers of customers as quickly as possible, then moving on to restore smaller groups and individual customers.

Reporting an outage

Safety Tips

Do not go near downed electrical wires. Treat downed wires as if they are live. Never attempt to move them or touch them with any object. Be mindful that downed wires can be hidden from view by tree limbs, leaves or water.
Report downed wires to Con Edison and your local police department immediately. If a power line falls on your car while you’re in it, stay inside the vehicle and wait for emergency personnel.
Members of the public should also avoid transformers that are brought to the ground. The transformers are gray metal drums attached to the wires and poles.
If your power goes out, disconnect or turn off appliances that would otherwise turn on automatically when service is restored. If several appliances start up at once, the electric circuits may overload.
Charge your cellphones and other mobile devices while you have power.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing and using a portable generator. Never plug a generator into a wall unit, use it indoors or set it up outdoors near open home windows or air-handling vents.
Make sure your flashlights and any battery-operated radios are working. Have a supply of extra batteries. Weather updates and news on electrical service can be heard on local radio and television stations.
For more storm tips and preparation, go to www.conEd.com

The company is in contact with New York City Emergency Management and the Westchester County Department of Emergency Services to coordinate storm-response if needed.

CON EDISON NAMES FRANCHESCA DIAZ REGIONAL AND COMMUNITY AFFAIRS DIRECTOR FOR THE BRONX

NEW YORK – Franchesca Diaz is leading Con Edison’s Regional and Community Affairs team for the Bronx.

As director, Diaz heads up a group that builds and strengthens relationships with customers, elected officials, community boards and business organizations.

The team keeps the community up to date on Con Edison’s clean energy, reliability and energy efficiency initiatives, and updates stakeholders on construction projects, new electric vehicle charging stations, the company’s philanthropic programs and other topics including environmental justice and the renewable jobs pipeline. The Bronx team is staffed around the clock during extreme weather events and other emergencies.

“Our Regional and Community Affairs team is the face of Con Edison in the communities we serve, and I am thrilled to have Franchesca Diaz step into this leadership role for the Bronx,” said Ruth Fasoldt, Con Edison’s Director of Government and Community Affairs. “Through her innovation, hard work, commitment and collaborative spirit, Franchesca embodies all the necessary knowledge and experience to lead her team, and community, through New York’s clean energy transition.”

Diaz joined Con Edison in 2014. She most recently served as a Bronx Regional and Community Affairs manager and led community engagement for several critical projects. As the Bronx experienced a surge in economic development over the last several years, Diaz tracked projects across the borough to help the company prepare for the demand for power. She has developed and enhanced relationships with elected officials, government agencies, and community and business stakeholders.

Before joining Con Edison, Diaz served as a Community and Public Relations Manager with the Mayor’s Office in Yonkers, as well as the Deputy Director of the Yonkers Film Office. Prior to that, she was the Legislative Chief of Staff with the Westchester County Board of Legislators.

Diaz holds a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Organizations, Markets and Sustainability from Manhattan College and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the State University of New York at Binghamton.

She lives in Yonkers with her two greatest achievements – her daughters, Scarlett, and Peyton.

Con Edison is a subsidiary of Consolidated Edison, Inc. [NYSE: ED], one of the nation’s largest investor-owned energy companies, with approximately $15 billion in annual revenues and $67 billion in assets. The utility delivers electricity, natural gas and steam, and serves 3.7 million customers in New York City and Westchester County. For financial, operations and customer service information, visit conEd.com.

NEW YORK – Franchesca Diaz is leading Con Edison’s Regional and Community Affairs team for the Bronx.

As director, Diaz heads up a group that builds and strengthens relationships with customers, elected officials, community boards and business organizations.

She lives in Yonkers with her two greatest achievements – her daughters, Scarlett, and Peyton.

Con Edison is a subsidiary of Consolidated Edison, Inc. [NYSE: ED], one of the nation’s largest investor-owned energy companies, with approximately $15 billion in annual revenues and $67 billion in assets. The utility delivers electricity, natural gas and steam, and serves 3.7 million customers in New York City and Westchester County. For financial, operations and customer service information, visit conEd.com.

CON EDISON CREWS PREPARED TO SERVE CUSTOMERS DURING THE MOST INTENSE HEAT OF SUMMER 2024 Workers Are Ready to Keep Service Reliable; Company Urges Customers to Use Energy Wisely

NEW YORK – Con Edison crews are mobilized to respond to any service problems that may occur as the most sweltering heat of the summer so far enters the region on Monday.

The company urges customers to use energy efficiently and take steps to stay safe and comfortable.

Heat, humidity and increased demand for electricity to power air conditioners can place stress on electric delivery equipment.

The coming days could also bring thunderstorms, which can affect the overhead delivery system and cause outages.

The company urges members of the public to stay away from any wires that are downed during storms. Call your local police department or 1-800-75-CONED (1-800-752-6633) to report downed wires.

Report an Outage

Con Edison will send text messages to customers in areas expected to be most impacted, reminding them to be prepared and to report an outage by simply replying OUT to the text. Customers can sign up for text alerts at coned.com/text.

Customers can also report outages and check service restoration status at conEd.com/reportoutage, with Con Edison’s mobile app for iOS or Android devices, or by calling 1-800-75-CONED (1-800-752-6633). The company also sends e-mails to customers to communicate energy-saving tips and information on reporting outages.

Con Edison may assign workers to guard downed wires and keep people and pets away from them. These workers may be in unmarked vehicles but they carry Con Edison identification.

Energy-Saving Tips

New Yorkers can stay cool and save all summer by following these money-saving conservation tips:

If you are running your air conditioner, close off unoccupied rooms. If you are using the AC in your living room and nobody is in the bedrooms, close the doors to those rooms;
Set your air conditioner to the highest comfortable temperature. Every degree you lower the thermostat increases costs;
To reduce heat and moisture in your home, run appliances such as ovens, washing machines, dryers and dishwashers in the early morning or late at night when it’s cooler outside;
Keep shades, blinds and curtains closed. About 40 percent of unwanted heat comes through windows;
Even when using AC, use ceiling and other fans to provide additional cooling and better circulation;
Turn off AC units, lights and other appliances when not at home and use a timer to turn on your AC about a half-hour before arriving home;
If you run a business, keep the door closed while running the AC;
Keep AC filters clean.

Replacing an old air conditioner with a new ENERGY STAR unit can reduce energy usage by 30 percent. Con Edison offers additional energy savings tips.

Energy Efficiency Programs

The best way for customers to save on their bills is to manage their usage. Con Edison offers a range of energy efficiency programs that pay customers who make energy saving upgrades.

Programs are available for residential customers, those with low incomes, small businesses, large commercial and industrial properties, and multi-family buildings.

Business customers can also earn incentives from Con Edison’s smart usage programs when they agree to conserve at times when the demand for power is high.

Cooling Center Availability

Find the latest information on locations and hours for New York City and State cooling centers at the following sites: New York City and New York State. In addition, Westchester County offers information on its Sun Safety page.

Customers can follow Con Edison on X, or Facebook for general outage updates, safety tips and storm preparation information.

CON EDISON REPORTS CLEAN ENERGY PROGRESS FOR FIRST QUARTER 2024 Con Edison Customers Add 92 MW of Solar Capacity In A Year

NEW YORK – Con Edison and its customers continue to make progress in the transition to a clean energy future, according to the first quarter (Q1) update for 2024 released today.

Among the highlights, in the last year, Con Edison customers have increased their rooftop solar capacity by 18 percent, adding 92 megawatts (MW).

“The only way we achieve New York’s clean energy goals is if we all work together,” said Vicki Kuo, senior vice president for Con Edison Customer Energy Solutions. “We’re working closely with our customers in this energy transition, helping them to install solar panels and incentivizing energy-efficient upgrades to heating, lighting, and cooling. We are helping customers make decisions to conserve energy and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.”

Clean Energy Commitment

Con Edison’s major infrastructure projects are on track to support New York’s transition to clean energy. They include the Brooklyn Clean Energy Hub, Reliable Clean City – Idlewild Substation, Goethals to Fox Hills and Gowanus to Greenwood projects. Also included is the interconnection to bring offshore wind energy from the Empire Wind project.

The company continues to reduce methane emissions. It replaced or retired 17 miles of natural gas pipeline in Q1. It also fully electrified three customers’ buildings in order to decommission two gas mains.

As part of its commitment to customers, Con Edison continues to protect energy affordability for low-income customers. This year it has applied $68 million in electric discounts and $13 million in gas discounts for its most vulnerable customers.

Solar Generation

Con Edison customers are capturing the sun’s energy at a record pace. In just a year, customers added 92 MW of solar capacity.

More than 67,000 solar projects now dot the rooftops of homes, supermarkets, office buildings, parking structures and yards with the capacity to produce 600.5 MW of power.

That’s an impressive amount of energy considering that one of the nation’s newest solar energy producers with nearly 2 million solar panels covering 4,600 acres has an 875 MW capacity.

In Q1, Queens customers lead the way with 22,874 installed solar projects. Staten Island followed with 13,096 projects installed.

Westchester County customers topped solar generation capacity with 161.5 MW over Queens’ 157.3 MW. Staten Islanders have installed 117.3 MW of capacity.

Battery Storage

Westchester customers lead the region with 559 of the 619 battery storage projects with the capacity to store 14 MW.

In total, Con Edison customers installed 46.8 MW of storage capacity.

Con Edison has also installed 9.5 MW of utility-owned storage for a total storage capacity of 55.3 MW.

Con Edison continues to work with state and local partners to make it easier for customers to install solar and battery storage projects. For those who missed March’s 2024 Annual NYC Solar and Storage Installer Workshop sponsored by Sustainable CUNY and Con Edison, they can watch it here.

Electric Vehicles & Charging

Con Edison’s PowerReady program has provided incentives for more than 7,500 vehicle charge plugs since it began in 2020.

Of the charging plugs installed, 2,700 EV chargers are in disadvantaged communities and 1,700 are publicly accessible.

Every EV that replaces a gas-powered vehicle on the road means cleaner air for local communities and less carbon pollution fueling climate change.

Con Edison has completed 59 fleet site assessments through this quarter to support customers’ transition to electric vehicles.

More than one quarter of the company’s internal combustion engine light-duty vehicle fleet has been replaced with electric vehicles, reducing greenhouse gas emissions through the conversion of 480 cars from gas to electric.

The company also introduced its first fully electric Class 8 tractor, the Freightliner eCascadia, into its fleet.

Clean Heat

Con Edison’s Clean Heat program offers incentives for customers who replace their fossil-fuel powered HVAC systems and water heaters with heat pumps. Heat pumps move energy from the air or stored in the earth to provide carbon-free heating and cooling.

In the first quarter of 2024, the company supported 1,376 heat pump installations with a $14 million investment on clean heat programs to support customer adoption.

The company continues to collaborate with customers and stakeholders to foster the clean energy transition.

Con Edison is a subsidiary of Consolidated Edison, Inc. [NYSE: ED], one of the nation’s largest investor-owned energy companies, with approximately $15 billion in annual revenues and $67 billion in assets. The utility delivers electricity, natural gas and steam, and serves 3.7 million customers in New York City and Westchester County. For financial, operations and customer service information, visit conEd.com. For energy efficiency information, visit coned.com/energyefficiency.

CON EDISON CREWS ARE MOBILIZING FOR HIGH-HEAT, HUMIDITY

CON EDISON CREWS ARE MOBILIZING FOR

HIGH-HEAT, HUMIDITY

Workers Are Ready to Respond to Service Issues

NEW YORK – Con Edison crews are ready to respond to any outages or other service problems that may occur due to the hot and humid weather forecast for this weekend.

The company urges customers to use energy efficiently and take steps to stay safe and comfortable.

Heat, humidity and increased demand for electricity to power air conditioners can place stress on electric delivery equipment.

It also can produce thunderstorms with gusty winds that can push trees and branches into overhead power lines and bring those lines down, causing customers to lose service and blocking roads.

The company urges members of the public to stay away from any wires that are downed during storms. Call your local police department or 1-800-75-CONED (1-800-752-6633) to report downed wires.

Report an Outage

Con Edison sends text messages to customers in areas expected to be most impacted, reminding them to be prepared and to report an outage by simply replying OUT to the text. Customers can sign up for text alerts at coned.com/text.

Customers who report outages will receive updates from Con Edison with their estimated restoration times as they become available.

Information on outages and restoration times is also available at the Con Edison outage map. Learn more about outage map features in this tutorial video.

The company may assign workers to guard downed wires and keep people and pets away from them. These workers may be in unmarked vehicles, but they carry Con Edison identification.

Energy-Saving Tips

New Yorkers can stay cool and save all summer by following these money-saving conservation tips:

Replacing an old air conditioner with a new ENERGY STAR unit can reduce energy usage by 30 percent. Con Edison offers additional energy savings tips.

Energy Efficiency Programs

The best way for customers to save on their bills is to manage their usage. Con Edison offers a range of energy efficiency programs that pay customers who make energy saving upgrades.

Programs are available for residential customers, those with low incomes, small businesses, large commercial and industrial properties, and multi-family buildings.

Business customers can also earn incentives from Con Edison’s smart usage programs under which they agree to conserve at times when the demand for power is high.

Cooling Center Availability

NYC cooling centers will be open on 7/6. Cooling centers are air-conditioned facilities such as libraries, community centers, or senior centers, that are open to the public during heat emergencies. To find your nearest cooling center, call 311 or visit https://maps.nyc.gov/cooling-center/ For more information, visit http://nyc.gov/beattheheat. Westchester County offers information on its Sun Safety page.

Customers can follow Con Edison on X or Facebook for general outage updates, safety tips and storm preparation information.

# # #

CON EDISON PREPARES FOR STORM, URGES SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

CON EDISON PREPARES FOR STORM,

URGES SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Company Mobilizing to Respond to Outages,

Warns About Downed Wires

NEW YORK – Con Edison crews are preparing to respond to any outages that occur due to the severe rain and windstorms expected to hit New York City and Westchester County.

Strong winds can push trees and branches into overhead power lines and bring those lines down, causing customers to lose service and blocking roads.

The company urges members of the public to stay away from downed wires. They may be live. For your safety, we may guard downed wires until crews make repairs. Our personnel may be in unmarked cars but will always have Con Edison identification.

Restoration Plan

The priority for restoration will be critical customer facilities that have an impact on the public, such as mass transit, hospitals, police and fire stations, and sewage and water-pumping stations.

Crews will then prioritize repairs that will provide power to the largest numbers of customers as quickly as possible, then move on to restore smaller groups and individual customers.

Reporting An Outage

Safety Tips

Con Edison offers the following storm tips to customers to help weather the possible effects of a storm:

· Do not go near downed wires. Treat all downed wires as if they are live. Never attempt to move them or touch them with your hands or any object. Be mindful that downed wires can be hidden from view by tree limbs, leaves or water.

· Report all downed wires to Con Edison and your local police department immediately. If a power line falls on your car while you’re in it, stay inside the vehicle and wait for emergency personnel.

· Members of the public also should avoid transformers that are brought to the ground. The transformers are gray metal drums attached to the wires and poles.

· Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing and using a portable generator. Never plug a generator into a wall unit, use it indoors, or set it up outdoors near open home windows or air-handling vents.

· If your power goes out, disconnect or turn off appliances that would otherwise turn on automatically when service is restored. If several appliances start up at once, the electric circuits may overload.

· Make sure your flashlights and any battery-operated radios are working. Have a supply of extra batteries. Weather updates and news on restorations of electrical service can be heard on most local radio and television stations.

· Charge your cellphones and other mobile devices while you still have power.

· For more storm tips and preparation, go to www.conEd.com

Customers can follow Con Edison on Twitter or like us on Facebook for general outage updates, safety tips and storm preparation information.

The company is in close contact with New York City Emergency Management and the Westchester County Department of Emergency Services to coordinate storm response if needed.

CON EDISON TO CUSTOMERS: KNOW THE TRICKS SCAMMERS USE AND YOU CAN AVOID BEING A VICTIM Con Edison and Other Companies Banding Together to Educate and Protect Consumers from Fraud

NEW YORK – Con Edison urges customers to learn the signs that someone is trying to rip them off by posing as a company employee and demanding money.

Scammers are inventive, resourceful and persistent. They contact customers by email, phone and by showing up at homes and businesses. The best defense for customers is to be aware of the methods scammers use.

Con Edison is among more than 150 U.S. and Canadian energy and water companies that are using International Fraud Awareness Week as an opportunity to educate consumers.

The companies are members of Utilities United Against Scams, which has declared today to be Utility Scam Awareness Day.

“As scammers become more imaginative, we want our customers to know they can empower themselves,” said Michele O’Connell, Con Edison’s senior vice president, Customer Operations. “A customer who receives a demand for immediate payment or feels pressured to give up personal information can stop the scammer by remaining composed and refusing to play along. But it all starts with recognizing scammers’ deceptive tactics.”

“Utility impostor scammers continue to grow more sophisticated in their tactics,” said Monica Martinez, executive director of Utilities United Against Scams. “Increasingly, we are seeing scammers use digital methods that target both younger and older generations. We encourage customers to stop and verify any unusual utility company requests before making a payment, regardless of whether the customer is contacted via phone, internet, or in person.”

Here are signs that the person contacting a Con Edison customer is a scammer:

A common tactic is to say a customer must make an immediate payment to avoid a service turnoff. Con Edison does not make these calls.

Scammers call customers and instruct them to buy a pre-paid card. Once the customer puts money on the card and provides the scammer with the card number, the scammer steals the money. Con Edison does not accept payment by pre-paid debit cards, MoneyGram or similar transfers.

Scammers contact customers and demand payment via apps like Cash App, Venmo and Zelle. Con Edison does not support these platforms for payment. The company also does not accept payment via PayPal or bitcoin.

People trying to pull a scam often try to sell a customer on urgency. They’ll say company personnel are on their way to shut off service. Scammers who believe they are getting what they want from a customer sometimes act extremely polite and helpful as they tell the customer what to do.

Many scammers try to get customers to give up their Con Edison account number, Social Security number or other personal information. The customer should hang up and call 1-800-75-CONED or the local police department.

A person who shows up at a home or business not wearing a Con Edison ID is not a company employee. A Con Edison employee will politely show the ID to the customer when asked. If you are still not sure the person works for the company, call 1-800-75-CONED to get confirmation.

Scammers who call customers by phone can even make a Con Edison phone number appear on a customer’s caller ID display.

When a customer gives money to a scammer, the scammer will often claim that the payment did not go through and demand another payment. The company has gotten reports of customers providing multiple payments totaling thousands of dollars to a scammer.

Con Edison’s website offers approved options for bill payment.

Some utilities have reported an increase in utility impostor scams through digital methods, including search engine-related scams. Digital scam tactics include:

Sponsored ads on search engines that lead to an identical – but fake – utility bill payment page.

QR codes that scammers falsely claim link to a utility payment page.

Texts from a scammer claiming to be a utility representative, with a link to an impostor payment page.

GOVERNOR HOCHUL

FYI: GOVERNOR HOCHUL LAUNCHES EFFORT TO PROTECT NEW YORKERS AHEAD OF TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE ON APRIL 8

New York State Will Distribute Limited Edition I LOVE NY Eclipse Glasses at 30 Locations Throughout the State – Including New York State Welcome Centers and Select Service Areas Along NYS Thruway

Urges New York Stargazers to be Wary of Scams, Fake Merchandise and Phony Accommodation Listings

Announces Expansion of Ongoing I LOVE NY Eclipse Safety Awareness Campaign to Include Messaging Promoting Glasses Distribution Across the State

Builds on Statewide Preparations for Once-in-a-Generation Celestial Event

Governor Kathy Hochul today launched a statewide effort to protect New Yorkers ahead of the Total Solar Eclipse on Monday, April 8. The effort includes statewide distribution of limited-edition I LOVE NY eclipse glasses at 30 locations throughout the state – including New York State Welcome Centers and select service areas along the NYS Thruway – as well as a reminder for stargazers to be wary of scams, fake merchandise and phony accommodation listings. In addition, the Governor expanded an I LOVE NY campaign to urge New Yorkers to take proper safety precautions during the eclipse. Today’s announcement builds on previous actions to prepare the state, as well as New York stargazers, for the once-in-a-generation celestial event.

“The total solar eclipse will be a once-in-a-generation experience for our state, and it’s critical that New Yorkers have the tools and information to enjoy it safely,” Governor Hochul said. “From heightening awareness of scams to providing thousands of New Yorkers with eclipse glasses, I’m focused on giving everyone the resources they need to safely experience this extraordinary event.”

On April 8, a total solar eclipse will encompass the western and northern parts of New York State with the roughly 100-mile wide path of totality entering in the southwestern part of the state at just after 3:15 p.m. and departing northern New York just before 3:30 p.m. Cities and towns within this path include Jamestown, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Watertown, Old Forge, Lake Placid and Plattsburgh. The entire event will last for up to 2 ½ hours, marking the time the sun is first obstructed to the last moments when the moon’s shadow is cast.

I LOVE NY Eclipse Glasses

During the eclipse, it is especially unsafe to look directly at the sun without specialized eye protection and can result in serious injury. The partial phases of the solar eclipse can only be safely observed directly with specialized eclipse glasses or a handheld solar viewer – regular sunglasses are not a safe replacement.

A limited quantity of I LOVE NY eclipse glasses will be available beginning today at locations throughout the state, including New York State Welcome Centers and select service areas along the New York State Thruway (at the Applegreen C-Stores). A full list of locations distributing I LOVE NY glasses, as well as other sources for eclipse glasses, are available here. Glasses will be limited to two pairs per person, while supplies last, with a limited amount distributed daily. The glasses were approved by the New York State Department of Health and carry an ISO certification.

A digital marketing campaign was launched in January to promote general awareness of the eclipse and viewing options across New York State. Messaging of the campaign has expanded to include safety and preparedness information as well as information on eclipse glasses distribution. The campaign will continue to run up until the eclipse on April 8.

Protecting Stargazers From Scams

The New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is providing tips for the hundreds of thousands of consumers planning to travel to New York State to witness the solar eclipse over New York. Consumers need to be informed of their rights, shop smartly to safeguard their hard-earned money and stay vigilant to protect themselves from scams.

According to the Better Business Bureau, scams associated with the 2024 solar eclipse may include:

Travel Scams: Scammers may advertise discounted travel packages or transportation services for viewing the eclipse, only to disappear with customers’ money or provide subpar services.
Fake Merchandise: Unscrupulous vendors might sell counterfeit or overpriced eclipse-themed merchandise.
Phony Accommodation Listings: Scammers could create false hotel or rental listings claiming to have optimal views of the eclipse while these listings may not exist or properties may not be as described, or the lister is not really the owner.

To safeguard against these scams, consumer should:

Try to pay with a credit card. Credit cards often offer more protection than paying by cash, check or debit card. Some credit card companies also offer perks like trip insurance or concierge service while traveling and may offer additional protections if the trip is cancelled. Check with your credit card company on the conditions of travel expenditure reimbursement.
Purchasing Merchandise. Purchase eclipse viewing glasses and other related products only from reputable vendors or verified sources. Look to see if the glasses include the ISO stamp and message When seeking eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers, your best bet is to start with the AAS list of suppliers so you can be sure your viewers are safe.
Personal Information. Exercise caution when providing personal or financial information online. This advice is good all year round, not just for the eclipse.
Do Your Research. Verify the legitimacy of accommodation listings by researching the property and reading reviews from trusted sources.

Any consumer who encounters a marketplace problem while enjoying the eclipse in New York can file a complaint with the Division of Consumer Protection at https://dos.ny.gov/consumer-protection.

Additional Preparations for Total Solar Eclipse

New York State is committed to providing a safe and fun eclipse experience, recognizing the convergence of public safety and tourism promotion. Travelers are encouraged to plan an extended getaway for a more enjoyable event, including avoiding post-eclipse traffic like the massive backups following the Great Eclipse of 2017, which bisected the United States from Oregon to South Carolina.

Educational Information and Viewing

Earlier this month, Governor Hochul announced the eclipse events and activities scheduled at New York’s State Parks, in coordination with NASA. I LOVE NY has launched the multi-platform “Come for the Eclipse, Stay for New York” campaign to present New York as THE place to be to witness this event. The campaign and a special eclipse website highlight viewing location information in the five regions that will experience the path of totality, a variety of attractions and special eclipse-related events happening across the state across its digital platforms including Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Twitter/X. A downloadable special edition eclipse poster is also available, created through I LOVE NY’s partnership with acclaimed artist and professional astronomer Dr. Tyler Nordgren. Visit iloveny.com/eclipse for viewing locations and additional safety tips.

Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez said, “The excitement is building for this extraordinary celestial event happening for the first time in 99 years. As hundreds of thousands of solar eclipse enthusiasts visit and travel throughout our state, we urge New Yorkers and tourists alike to be vigilant and follow our tips so they can enjoy the eclipse without becoming prey to fraudulent schemes.”

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “New York’s prime location in the path of totality for this rare total solar eclipse has generated substantial interest from residents and visitors alike. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, we’re working to ensure viewer safety through multi-agency public safety coordination and the distribution of complementary I LOVE NY eclipse glasses. This once-in-a-lifetime event will further support our vital tourism industry, benefiting hotels, restaurants and businesses, as eclipse enthusiasts explore viewing locations throughout the state.”

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “As part of New York State’s multi-agency coordination effort, state agencies under Governor Hochul’s direction are working in unison to make sure that the upcoming solar eclipse is as enjoyable and safe as possible. New York State will be one of the primary destinations for people hoping to catch a rare glimpse of this natural wonder, which will provide new opportunities for the economy and tourism, along with unique traffic challenges. If you are coming to New York to enjoy this event, please come prepared with food and water; please be patient, as you may encounter traffic and please do not park on the side of the roads – so emergency vehicles can safely access the roadways. The team at NYSDOT is planning to ensure that everyone not only enjoys the eclipse safely, but hopefully takes in some more sights while they’re here.”

New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “The most important step to ensure New Yorkers enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime event is to protect your eyes. ISO certified eclipse glasses will shield your eyes from serious and possibly permanent damage, which can occur by looking at the eclipse with regular sunglasses or without any eye protection. I am grateful Governor Hochul is making the specialized glasses available in dozens of locations around the State to ensure this experience is a safe and enjoyable one.”

New York State Thruway Authority Acting Executive Director Frank G. Hoare said, “Thousands of additional motorists are expected to use the New York State Thruway to travel to their destination to view the eclipse on April 8. Motorists stopping at select service areas on the Thruway will be able to pick up a free pair of eclipse glasses to safely view this once in a lifetime experience. For the safety of all travelers, there is no parking on the shoulders of the highway, and parking in Thruway service areas will be limited. We encourage travelers to arrive to their destination early, drive safely and have fun at this historic event.”

Mark J.F. Schroeder, Commissioner of the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles and Chair of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee said, “This is an exciting day for New Yorkers and our visitors to experience a rare phenomenon, and we want to make sure everyone can do so safely. If you’re driving during the eclipse, be prepared to experience sudden darkness, and do not try to look at the eclipse while you’re in motion. Find a place to park if you want to look, and make sure you have proper eyewear. You should also be aware that traffic in viewing areas will be heavier, so expect delays and take it slow.”

Claire Rosenzweig, President & CEO of Better Business Bureau – Metropolitan New York said, “A solar eclipse is exciting but don’t let your guard down to those who try to trick you and vanish with your money. Independently verify products and services and never give your personal or financial information to a stranger.”

GOVERNOR HOCHUL AWARDS $1.1 MILLION TO FINANCIAL LITERACY PROGRAMS ACROSS THE STATE

Funding for 11 Community-Based Organizations Will Help Low Income Families Understand Purchasing Power

Programs Will Provide One-On-One Coaching With Financial Professionals Offering Training and Education on Budgeting and Financial Management

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the New York Department of State has awarded $1.1 million in grant funding to 11 community-based organizations across six regions of New York State. $100,000 grants will be used to fund financial literacy programs in these communities. Individuals with incomes at or below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines will be eligible to participate in the programs. Language access services will also be made available to individuals that have limited English proficiency.

“Financial literacy is crucial to helping New Yorkers save their hard-earned money as they work to build a better life for their families,” Governor Hochul said. “Through these programs, we can arm New Yorkers in communities across the state with the tools they need to build a more secure economic future for themselves and their loved ones.”

The Financial Literacy Programs will provide one-on-one coaching with experienced financial professionals offering training, as well as education regarding budgeting and financial management. A key component of the initiative is to help individuals and families better understand their purchasing power. Participants will receive information regarding homeownership, improving credit scores, decreasing dependence on credit card debt, opening checking and savings accounts, asset building and how to avoid financial scams.

Each of the participating organizations will partner with community banking institutions as well as local, state and/or federal agencies for referral to additional services that may be available to help strengthen and improve their financial standing.

Programs will be in the following regions of New York State:

New York City
Capital Region
Mohawk Valley
Western New York
Southern Tier
Finger Lakes

These programs are fully funded through the federal Community Services Block Grant and will be managed by the Department of State’s Division of Community Services. The programs were awarded based on a competitive RFP process.

Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez said, “Financial management is one of the most important tools to acquire in order to achieve economic independence and stability. Empowering communities with financial literacy creates a ripple effect that can lead to and ultimately foster prosperous families, a stronger workforce, and more robust communities throughout the state. Teaching individuals how to save, borrow, spend, and invest is essential, especially in underserved communities. Having a sound financial education increases one’s chances of achieving their goals for a better quality of life – and that – benefits everyone.”

Community Service Society of New York City President and CEO David R. Jones said, “The Community Service Society of New York believes that every New Yorker deserves to live with dignity and economic security. Through the NYS Financial Literacy Initiative, CSS has expanded the work of its Financial Coaching Corps to target individuals with limited access to much needed financial coaching services. By providing support and education, we hope to instill in people the power to create change in their own lives.”

Executive Director of Albany Community Action Partnership Neenah Bland said, “I would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude for being chosen to receive funding from the New York State Financial Literacy Initiative, to support our program, Let’s Make Cent$. Through this program, ACAP is helping low-income families in Albany County strive to break the cycle of poverty by providing opportunities and resources to help individuals take control of their financial well-being and build a foundation for a more secure and prosperous future. This Initiative aligns with our mission to partner with families and communities to expand opportunities and build stronger networks to foster upward economic mobility.”

Mohawk Valley Community Action Executive Director Amy Turner said, “Mohawk Valley Community Action Agency is pleased to have this opportunity to partner with families and guide them through increasing their overall financial wellness. The smiles we see when someone achieves their goals worth a million!! The program will continue to grow and help more families in the Mohawk Valley because of this grant award.”

Chautauqua Opportunities Inc. in Western New York CEO Diane Hewitt-Johnson said, “Providing Financial Literacy Services is critical when assisting individuals to become self-sufficient. Financial Literacy provides the foundation necessary to make positive movements when building personal assets. Chautauqua Opportunities Inc. has been providing Financial Literacy Services for many years and sees the benefits to the individual, families, and community as a whole. We use the FDIC Money Smart curriculum which dives into the topics of earning, spending, saving, borrowing, and protecting assets. Financial literacy is the key to economic security.”

Director of Qualitas of Life Foundation of Westchester Myriam E. Rebling said, “Qualitas is honored to have received the Financial Literacy Initiative grant from NY State Department of State to continue its mission of providing financial education to low-income Hispanic families to improve their financial health and standards of living. Our participants have given us moving testimonies of financial goals they have achieved. This inspires us to continue helping more and more families in our community.”

Tioga Opportunities in the Southern Tier Executive Director Maureen Abbott said, “The importance of financial literacy as a cornerstone of the anti-poverty work being done in Tioga County is the foundation for success for those we serve. Finding one’s way out of poverty or a vulnerable financial state must be rooted in understanding one’s relationship with money and how this relationship has assisted or hampered one’s ability to attain financial goals. Tioga Opportunities, Inc. is committed to integrating financial literacy into all service areas in order to maximize customer attainment of financial goals.”

About The Division of Community Services

The New York Department of State’s Division of Community Services works with an extensive network of regional community action agencies to combat poverty among poor and low-income families. The Division of Community Services directs funding to these non-profit organizations to help provide low-income and poor families across New York State with necessary services, including employment assistance and training, emergency food and housing, childcare, home heating and much more. Community action agencies are beneficiaries of New York State’s Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) funds, which are administered by the Division of Community Services. The Division monitors and tracks agencies’ progress in fulfillment of goals, while also ensuring compliance to CSBG guidelines. More information is available on the Department of State website.

GOVERNOR HOCHUL ANNOUNCES NEW LAW TO CLARIFY DISCLOSURE OF CREDIT CARD SURCHARGES GOES INTO EFFECT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 11

Governor Hochul Signed into Law in December 2023 for Greater Consumer Protections and More Transparency

Business Transactions Imposing a Credit Card Surcharge Must Post Total Price of Transactions, Including Surcharge, Prior To Sale

To Assist Businesses, the Department of State has Created a Credit Card Surcharge Guide and Video to Help Businesses Comply with the Law

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a new consumer protection law that will go into effect on February 11, 2024. This new law will amend and clarify New York’s existing credit card surcharge law. The NYS Division of Consumer Protection assists aggrieved consumers in the marketplace and the New York State Attorney General and local governments have the authority to enforce the credit card surcharge law. The New York State Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection recommends that interested localities review DCP’s Credit Card Surcharge Legal Update Letter for more information.

“New Yorkers should never have to deal with hidden credit card costs, and this law will ensure individuals can trust that their purchases will not result in surprise surcharges,” Governor Hochul said. “Transparency is crucial in building trust between businesses and communities and now patrons will be empowered to budget accordingly.”

The law, signed by Governor Hochul on December 13, 2023, provides greater transparency and protections for consumers by:

Limiting credit card surcharges to the amount charged to the business by the credit card company; and
Requiring businesses to post before checkout:
- the total price of an item or service inclusive of the credit card surcharge; or
- a two-tiered pricing option, which requires the credit card price to be posted alongside the cash price.

New York Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez said, “New Yorkers using credit cards have a right to know the total cost of the purchase, inclusive of any surcharge, before they reach the register. This new law signed by Governor Hochul will offer clarity and provide transparency to both the consumer and business owners about the surcharges when using a credit card.”

State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, “Transparency in pricing is critical so people can make informed decisions when spending their hard-earned money. Requiring businesses to disclose credit card surcharges helps consumers better understand the total cost. Thank you, Governor Hochul, for signing this bill into law to protect consumers.”

Assemblymember Amy Paulin said, “This new law protects New Yorkers from hidden surcharges by requiring sellers to clearly post the price of a credit card surcharge. Credit card surcharges now have to be disclosed clearly so that customers are fully aware of them upfront and not just when they go to pay. This is about transparency, fairness and preventing consumers from being misled when making purchases using credits cards. I thank Governor Hochul for helping protect New Yorkers.”

The following practices and examples comply with the law’s credit card surcharge notice requirements. See the Department’s Credit Card Surcharge Guidance Document and educational video for additional examples:

DO:

The business lists the higher credit card price next to a lower cash price.
The business lists the credit card price for items and services, then lets customers know they will receive a discount for using cash.
The business changes all prices to the credit card price.

DON’T:

The business posts a sign on the door and at the register stating an additional 3.9 percent surcharge will apply for credit card purchases.
“This business has a 4 percent cash discount incentive built into all pricing. Any purchases made with a credit or debit card will not receive the cash discount and an adjustment in cost will be displayed on your receipt.”
A convenience fee, service fee, administration fee, non-cash adjustment, technology fee, processing fee, etc., is charged to credit card users and added as a separate line item on a customer receipt.
The price tag of an item shows “$10.00, + 4 percent if paying with a credit card.”

NOTE: This law does not apply to debit cards.

The Division of Consumer Protection provides educational assistance to consumers in how to protect themselves from unfair practices while also offering resources to the business community to help them comply with the law and prevent fraudulent and deceptive practices. After February 11, 2024, the law will permit local governments to join in the enforcement of this law, providing consumers with additional resources for compliance and providing local governments with broader opportunities to promote consumer protections for their citizens. If there are any issues related to credit card pricing at the register, DCP encourages consumers to:

File a complaint with DCP to receive a refund of any excess fees paid to a merchant in New York State, or
File a complaint with the Attorney General or participating local governments for enforcement of a merchant you believe violated the law.

About the New York State Division of Consumer Protection

The New York State Division of Consumer Protection provides resources and education materials to consumers, as well as voluntary mediation services between consumers and businesses. The Consumer Assistance Helpline 1-800-697-1220 is available Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm, excluding State Holidays, and consumer complaints can be filed at any time at www.dos.ny.gov/consumer-protection.

For other consumer protection tips and consumer alerts, consumers can visit the DCP website or follow DCP on social media via Twitter at @NYSConsumer or Facebook at www.facebook.com/nysconsumer

Parks & Trails New York Statement on Governor Hochul's 'NY SWIMS' Initiative

[Albany, NY] – Parks & Trails New York, the leading statewide advocate for parks, trails and public lands, celebrates Governor Kathy Hochul’s visionary ‘NY SWIMS’ initiative, unveiled as the fourth proposal of her 2024 State of the State address on Friday. This transformative plan, aimed at dramatically expanding access to safe swimming, arrives at a pivotal moment where public health, climate resilience, and equity converge. The investment in public swimming through resource expansion in our state parks could not come at a better time, during NYS Parks’ Centennial Year in 2024.

PTNY wholeheartedly commends Governor Hochul’s dedication to investing in minoritized and underserved communities, addressing long-standing disparities in access to water recreation facilities, and directing increased capital funding to State Parks for expanded capacity. The commitment of an additional $150 million in grant funding for 10 new landmark public swimming pools in high-need areas is a monumental leap towards equitable access for all New Yorkers.

As the New York State Parks System celebrates its Centennial in 2024, ‘NY SWIMS’ promises a welcome reversal of decades of disinvestment, ensuring our public parks offer state-of-the-art swimming facilities to the thousands of visitors frequenting our most popular water recreation locations daily in summer. We are particularly pleased with the Governor’s commitment to redesigning the Jones Beach East Bathhouse and Lake Sebago Beach in Harriman State Park, acknowledging Parks & Trails New York’s instrumental role in advocating for, and securing, this significant investment. The need for urgent funding at these popular but shuttered facilities was made painfully clear to PTNY leadership during a tour of these two flagship facilities. PTNY is committed to advocating not only for equitable access to public lands now, but to building out these iconic facilities for the next century of users.

At Jones Beach, the Governor’s proposed critical capital infusion will convert an abandoned, dilapidated pool complex into a regional destination that will include an accessible spray park and state-of-the art green technology. The updated facilities will also incorporate a unique Learn to Swim feature to enhance safety for children and inexperienced swimmers. The Lake Sebago swimming area–shuttered from extensive damage from dual tropical storms in 2011–will once again be able to welcome thousands of visitors each summer weekend, serving as a much needed oasis for families seeking relief from urban heat islands in the hot summer months. The updated swimming facilities at Lake Sebago will include new bathing facilities, storm resilient design elements, and a reimagined beach to better meet the needs of all New Yorkers. PTNY is excited to advocate for the reinstatement and update of these once premiere and well-loved locations that, prior to their closing, served tens of thousands New Yorkers annually.

Governor Hochul’s initiative also focuses on programming to make swimming more accessible to communities. The initiative’s focus on addressing the lifeguard shortage through a grant program, and expanding the Free Learn-to-Swim program at State Parks, underscores the commitment to building a culture of safe, equitable and enjoyable aquatic experiences for the park system’s 80 million annual visitors.

‘NY SWIMS’ stands as a historic investment in swimming, water safety, and equity in access to recreation for New York State. Parks & Trails New York, as a fervent advocate for accessible and inclusive outdoor experiences, is eager to continue working collaboratively with the Governor’s office and our legislators to further address the totality of our park system’s needs. PTNY is grateful for this much-needed investment, and also recognizes the close to $3.5 billion backlog in parks infrastructure funding needed to adequately serve our communities and maintain our status as a nation-leading destination for public lands and outdoor recreation.

About Parks & Trails New York

Parks & Trails New York is New York’s leading statewide advocate for parks and trails, dedicated since 1985 to improving our health, economy, and quality of life through the use and enjoyment of green space. With thousands of members and supporters across the state, PTNY is a leading voice in the protection of New York’s magnificent state park system and the creation and promotion of more than 1,500 miles of greenways, bike paths, river walks, and trails. PTNY’s trail programs, which aim to transform unused transportation and other corridors into vibrant public places, have furthered dozens of trail projects and hundreds of miles of trail over the last 30 years. For more information, visit www.ptny.org

MAYOR ADAMS, GOVERNOR HOCHUL, MTA LAUNCH “SUBWAY SURFING KILLS – RIDE INSIDE, STAY ALIVE” PUBLIC INFORMATION CAMPAIGN

Comprehensive Campaign Features Student-Created Graphics and Animations, Digital Signage, Audio Announcements, Posters and Banners in Stations and Schools, NYPD Outreach and Presence at Key Stations

New Partnerships with Social Media Platforms for Placement of Public Service Announcements

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) today unveiled “Subway Surfing Kills – Ride Inside, Stay Alive” — a new comprehensive, multi-channel public information campaign in partnership with the New York City Department of Education (DOE), the New York City Police Department (NYPD), and the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD). The new campaign centers around, is designed for, and was created by New York City teenagers — putting the youth voice front and center in a peer-to-peer effort to deter this dangerous behavior among young people.

“Each subway surfing death takes tragically strips young New Yorkers of promising futures said Mayor Adams. “We cannot endure another tragedy on our trains. That’s why we are partnering with the MTA on an innovative campaign to raise awareness, and we have recruited true social media experts to help lead it: young New Yorkers. Our young people know best how to reach their peers, and they want to help keep their friends safe. We will make sure that every young New Yorker understands: ‘Subway Surfing Kills – Ride Inside, Stay Alive.’”

“The safety of New Yorkers is my top priority,” Governor Hochul said. “Through this innovative partnership, young New Yorkers will hear directly from their teachers and peers about the extreme danger of subway surfing, saving lives and preventing more tragedies. New York will continue to do everything we can to keep our young people safe on the subways.”

“Riding outside a train car is subway stupidity and never ends well,” said MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber. “We are begging parents to speak with their children and teachers to talk to their students about what can seem like a game but can end in tragedy. I want to thank Governor Hochul, Mayor Adams, and our city agency partners for their strong support in raising awareness about the dangers of this so that we can prevent any more young lives being senselessly lost.”

“A viral video is not worth your life,” said DOE Chancellor David C. Banks. “Led by students from the High School of Art and Design, this campaign is truly made by students, for students, and I’m so proud of all the work and advocacy that has been done by our young people. Subway surfing kills, and far too many of our bright young students have died due to this trend. Today, and every day, I’m urging every child to ride inside and stay alive.”

“Our message to New York City’s youth is clear: Always ride inside the train,” said NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban. “Subway surfing is dangerous, it is illegal, and it can be lethal. The NYPD will continue to do everything we can to stop this reckless behavior — but it starts with sound decision making. So be smart, be safe, and always ride inside the train.”

“The urgent message of this campaign is clear — subway surfing is irresponsible and dangerous, and it can be deadly,” said DYCD Commissioner Keith Howard. “Life is to be celebrated but not atop a subway car. Young people need to seriously consider the risks and the pain and suffering of loved ones left to care for them or grieve. We are asking the public to join the mayor and our partners in saving lives by reporting subway surfing, and we are encouraging peers to have those difficult but persuasive conversations with friends engaged in reckless behavior.”

Subway Safety Palm Card

“Subway Surfing Kills – Ride Inside, Stay Alive” Vertical Poster

“Subway Surfing Kills – Ride Inside, Stay Alive” will include public service announcements in stations recorded by students; digital signage across stations; student-created graphics and animations; posters and banners across stations and distributed in schools; physical palm cards distributed at schools and in stations; school swag including planners, pens and pencils, notepads, and sticky notes; social media posts across platforms including TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube in the form of posts, reels/shorts, and influencer collaborations; distribution of new student MetroCards accompanied by a “Subway Surfing Kills — Ride Inside, Stay Alive” palm card; and anti-surfing messages on the back of some MetroCards for sale in subway station MetroCard vending machines. Meta, Google, and TikTok are also making space available on their platforms to help amplify the new messaging campaign. Through a partnership with Governor Hochul’s office, Google is making space available for the campaign to play on YouTube.

Starting in early July 2023, a group of five recent graduates from the High School of Art and Design on the East Side of Manhattan were asked to create graphics, animations, and messaging for trains, stations, and schools that address subway surfing along with calls to action. The student-led “Subway Squad” developed digital posters, animatics, voice announcements, and social media strategies for the campaign. An offshoot of the DOE Office of Student Pathways’ Summer Design Institute, the Subway Squad is comprised of a graphics team (Milana Blokhina, Maksymilian Rychlicki, and Nicholas Setiawan) and animation team (Langening-Arum Ratmansunu and Dalma Chiclayo) whose message and designs will be made visible and audible in subway cars and subway stations, as well as on social media.

The NYPD is contributing to the campaign by deploying officers to stations on outdoor elevated lines and by conducting home visits with youths who have been observed riding outside of trains. In 2023, the NYPD has already taken enforcement action on 87 subway surfers — nearly tripling its enforcement from 2022. The NYPD conducted 69 home visits to known subway surfers between April and June this year, and had follow-up conversations with the guardians of all 82 youth against whom NYPD took enforcement action for subway surfing. There have been five fatalities due to suspected subway surfing in 2023, compared to five total fatalities between 2018 and 2022. The MTA has documented over 450 instances of people riding outside of trains between January and June in 2023.

“A core connecting value of public schools, transit bureau and the MTA is keeping people safe and getting where they need to be in life. Our summer design institute team, the Subway Squad, rose to the occasion in every way using a design thinking approach and empathy-forward design strategies,” said Art and Design High School Principal and Subway Squad Creative Director Maximillian Re-Suigura. “We’re using the voices of young people to reach other young people in making good decisions. Safe decisions. This campaign is proof that students from Art and Design and all New York City public schools can compete with any agency in developing strategies and deliverables that make a difference.”

“I am so proud of the work my fellow students at Art and Design, and I did this summer to create this campaign alongside city leadership,” said Milana Blokhina, student, Art and Design High School. “With the campaign now being implemented, it is so fulfilling to know that we contributed to something bigger: the safety of fellow New Yorkers and all who travel in our subways. We hope that the work we have accomplished is proof of the creative capacity of New York City public school students and highlights the importance of design for the greater good.”

“The growing number of tragedies related to subway surfing is concerning,” said New York City Council Member Oswald Feliz. “Subway surfing is dangerous, and we must do everything we can to deter such conduct — including taking steps to ensure our youth know these actions are extremely dangerous and not worth it. I applaud Mayor Adams and the MTA on taking steps to help resolve this growing threat.”

“Educating our youth about the dangers of subway surfing will help prevent unnecessary tragic accidents,” said New York City Council Member Julie Menin. “By amplifying teenagers voices through this campaign, we are creating a peer-to-peer force that will steer our youth away from danger. Thank you, Mayor Adams and the MTA, for investing resources to deter hazardous behavior.”

Kingsbridge Armory Redevelopment 'Part Three'

By Robert Press

Tuesday, August 8th Governor Kathy Hochul, Mayor Eric Adams, and Bronx elected officials gathered inside the Kingsbridge Armory to announce plans for the redevelopment of the Kingsbridge Armory which was given to New York City in 1993. This would be the third time plans to redevelop the Kingsbridge Armory have occurred.

In 2008 Mayor Michael Bloomberg proposed ‘The Shops at the Armory’ which would redevelop the Kingsbridge Armory into a huge shopping mall. That proposal was defeated in the city council due to Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.’s and the local community’s opposition to the Bloomberg plan. The city council also overrode a veto of then-Mayor Bloomberg.

In 2012 with the backing of Bronx Borough President Diaz Jr. and local elected officials the Kingsbridge National Ice Center proposal was brought forward with the backing of New York Ranger Icon Mark Messier and Olympic Gold Medalist Sarah Hughes serving as spokespeople for the nine ice rink proposal. Problems occurred the next eight years in getting financing for the KNIC Ice Center and the deal fell through leaving the armory without a future for the second time.

Now in 2023 Governor Hochul and Mayor Adams announced the state and city have given grants totaling two hundred million dollars to redevelop the armory. A Request For Proposal will be let in September with a deadline of the end of 2023 for the RFP’s to be in by. The RFP’s will be gone over and sometime in 2024 one will be chosen and work can finally begin to redevelop the Kingsbridge Armory which has been laid vacant since New York City took it over in 1993.

MAYOR ADAMS, GOVERNOR HOCHUL ANNOUNCE $70 MILLION INITIAL INVESTMENT TO DECARBONIZE NYCHA BUILDINGS AS PART OF CLEAN HEAT FOR ALL CHALLENGE

Midea America and Gradient Selected by NYPA to Develop New Heat Pump Technology and Produce 30,000 Initial Units

Advanced Heating and Cooling Solutions Will Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Improve Resident Comfort

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced today that the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA), New York Power Authority (NYPA), and New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) are moving forward with the Clean Heat for All Challenge through a planned $70 million initial investment in the development and production of 30,000 new heat pump units for use in New York City Public Housing facilities.

Last week, the NYPA Board of Trustees awarded the funding through two seven-year contracts to Midea America and Gradient for the development and delivery of cold climate packaged window heat pump units. The announcement is the latest milestone in the Clean Heat for All Challenge, an initiative spearheaded by NYCHA, NYPA, and NYSERDA to develop a new electrification product that can better serve the heating and cooling needs of existing multifamily buildings and hasten the transition to fossil-free heating sources.

“Our administration is laser-focused on providing safe, high-quality, affordable housing for all New Yorkers, and today, we are delivering on a commitment in our housing blueprint that brings us one step closer,” said Mayor Adams. “We understand better than ever that our city’s most pressing crises are interconnected, but the solutions can be too. I am so proud to be partnering with Governor Hochul to deliver top-of-the-line technology for NYCHA residents to heat and cool their homes while also reducing our carbon footprint and helping to protect New Yorkers from health issues like asthma.”

“New York is tackling the climate crisis and the need for affordable housing head on, and the funding announced today will go a long way in addressing both,” said Governor Hochul. “Prioritizing green investments in public housing ensures the state’s bold climate agenda is equitable, benefiting all New Yorkers now and in the future. NYCHA residents deserve high-quality homes, and we’re working to make that happen.”

The Clean Heat for All Challenge reflects the goals of Mayor Adams’ “Housing Our Neighbors” blueprint for getting New Yorkers into safe, high-quality, affordable homes. The first city housing plan to cover the entire spectrum of New Yorkers’ housing needs and options, the blueprint outlines a plan to transform NYCHA by both delivering much-needed resources for repairs and streamlining the services NYCHA provides residents and the processes by which they do so.

Heat pump technology provides efficient cooling and heating from a single unit by moving heat between the indoor and outdoor spaces depending on the season. The process is achieved through the refrigeration cycle, which can be up to four times more efficient than traditional heating systems, such as boilers, which rely on on-site combustion of fossil fuels to produce heat. Heat pumps are difficult to install, particularly in occupied units. As a result, many operators prefer to delay electric conversion in favor of in-kind replacement of fossil fuel systems.

Over the next year, NYPA will coordinate with Midea America and Gradient to develop the proposed heat pump technology for testing and demonstration. NYPA will then collaborate with NYCHA to install 60 of the developed units in designated public housing to be comprehensively monitored and assessed over the course of a winter season before moving forward with the widespread installation of 30,000 units throughout the following years.

The heat pump units developed to meet the Clean Heat for All Challenge will enable rapid, low-cost electrification of space heating in multifamily buildings by reducing or eliminating many of the cost drivers inherent to installing existing heat pump technologies in resident-occupied apartments, including electrical system upgrades, lengthy refrigerant piping, and through-wall drilling and penetrations.

Midea America, which was awarded a contract for 20,000 units, is a global appliance manufacturer founded in 1968 with headquarters in China and the U.S., 11 factories around the globe, and annual output of 67 million units. They are a market leader in room air conditioning with a line of Energy Star rated window ACs, dehumidifiers, and other packaged ACs.

Founded in 2015, Gradient is a startup based in San Francisco, California, that was awarded a contract to manufacture 10,000 units. The proposed unit will be a cold climate heat pump capable of operating at low temperatures based on NYCHA’s specifications. The company intends to manufacture the product domestically in the United States.

In June, Governor Hochul signed legislation creating the New York City Public Housing Preservation Trust, a public benefit corporation, to help NYCHA invest billions of dollars in capital to fund repair, rehabilitation, and modernization of 25,000 supportive-housing apartments under NYCHA control. The Trust also guarantees homes are kept affordable by preserving rights that ensure residents only pay 30 percent of their income toward rent, residents maintain all current succession rights, apartments will continue to be reserved for low-income residents, and apartment vacancies will continue to be filled using the NYCHA waiting list.

“NYCHA residents have suffered freezing winters and boiling summers for too long. As a model for cleaner, more reliable heating and cooling for homes across the city and hopefully the country, the Clean Heat for All challenge will put public housing residents at the forefront of our decarbonization efforts,” said New York City Chief Housing Officer Jessica Katz. “This $70 million investment is an incredible step forward in the face of a changing climate that will have an impact on both those living in these homes with the new window units as well as our city as a whole. Thank you to New York Power Authority and New York State Energy Research and Development Authority for their partnership in support of NYCHA residents and a greener future.”

“The partnership between NYCHA and NYPA to develop new green technologies and pathways to implement them across a large portfolio of residential buildings will serve as an example to all property owners as we implement Local Law 97,” said New York City Chief Climate Officer Rohit T. Aggarwala. “Buildings are the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the five boroughs, and it is these types of innovative projects that will help us meet our critical climate goals.”

“The technology developed through the Clean Heat for All challenge will be transformational for the market and will help clear many of the hurdles buildings face to adopt clean heating and cooling,” said Kizzy Charles-Guzman, executive director, New York City Mayor’s Office of Climate and Environmental Justice. “The cleaner air, improved comfort, and safety that heat pumps provide are vital to the health of our communities, and this partnership will have impacts far beyond the affordable housing market: It will create local green jobs, support New York City’s efforts to help homeowners through programs like ElectrifyNYC and continue to demonstrate the City and State’s leadership on tackling the climate crisis.”

“The lack of an efficient and affordable solution for electric heating and cooling remains one of the primary hurdles for meaningfully reducing our carbon emissions footprint, especially for many of the tall residential buildings that comprise our portfolio,” said NYCHA Chair and CEO Greg Russ. “This innovative public-private partnership helps move NYCHA towards a low-carbon future, by bringing the promising technology of beneficial electrification to the largest public housing authority in the United States.”

“I applaud Mayor Adams and Governor Hochul for leading by example with this forward-thinking action plan, showing private building owners that through innovation and investment, we can make real progress in reducing the harmful greenhouse gases coming from our buildings,” said New York City Department of Buildings Commissioner Eric A. Ulrich.

“NYPA is excited to progress the Clean Heat for All Challenge through the selection of the initiative’s first vendors, which will develop and produce 30,000 heat pump units for the benefit of NYCHA residents,” said Justin E. Driscoll, interim president and CEO, NYPA. “The decarbonization of buildings — the state’s largest carbon emissions source — is critical to achieving the governor’s ambitious climate change goals.”

“NYSERDA is proud to support the Clean Heat for All Challenge and congratulates these two innovative companies as they begin work on what is expected to be an efficient, cost-effective, easy to install, heating and cooling solution for NYCHA residents,” said Doreen Harris, president and CEO, NYSERDA. “The combined focus on advancing new heat pump technology in multifamily buildings and ensuring the health and comfort of underserved populations supports Governor Hochul’s commitment to achieve 2 million climate-friendly homes by 2030 while ensuring that all New Yorkers benefit from clean energy investments.”

“Lowering or eliminating the reliance on fossil fuels in existing and new buildings is fundamental to New York State achieving the goals of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA),” said New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas. “Today’s announcement clearly demonstrates how the collective efforts of state and local government to decarbonize our housing stock will create climate-friendly affordable homes as well as healthier, safer, and more resilient communities for all New Yorkers.”

“I am especially excited about the latest milestone in the Clean Heat for All Challenge, which will invest $70 million in developing and producing 30,000 new heat pump units for NYCHA facilities,” said New York State Senator Kevin Parker. “This investment stays true to Local Law 97 and our CLCPA goals by reducing emissions from the number one energy user and a top CO₂-emitter buildings. Perhaps, more importantly, this will play a pivotal role in realizing a critical aim of the CLCPA by making sure that climate justice and underserved communities are prioritized in the state’s clean energy conversion. The inability to bring efficient and affordable clean heating and cooling solutions to climate justice communities are major obstacles for effectively reducing our carbon footprint overall and by supplying NYCHA buildings with heat pump technology this can be curbed. I applaud this all-hands-on-deck collaboration, which saw proposals vetted by NYCHA, NYPA, and NYSERDA and is receiving federal and state funding. This is a true example of climate change and climate justice aligning.”

“The boilers that heat the homes of my neighbors at Woodside Houses were taken out by Hurricane Ida, leaving them with inconsistent heat throughout the winter,” said New York State Senator Jessica Ramos. “Even predating this, I remember having to bundle up to visit my friends as a child here in Woodside Houses, because their shaky heating infrastructure was not up to the task. Launching Clean Heat for All here is a demonstration that we understand what it looks like to build resilient frontline climate communities. With this project, New York takes another significant step to keep the state on track to meet the goals set forth by the CLCPA.”

“For far too long, the infrastructure of our NYCHA developments have been allowed to crumble, all while the needs of our families in public housing went ignored and overlooked,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “That’s meant years of sweltering summer days and frigid winter nights without any recourse — or respect — for our residents, or any care for the carbon emissions these buildings emanate. But the Clean Heat for All Challenge represents a significant first step in flipping the script for thousands of families. From making NYCHA sites more energy efficient to creating clean-energy jobs in our communities to ensuring our families are treated with a basic sense of dignity they deserve as human beings, the Clean Heat for All Challenge is a win for our city. I look forward to working with Governor Hochul and all our partners on this critical initiative.”

“For too long the residents of NYCHA, specifically Woodside Houses, have been without any heat,” said New York State Assemblymember Brian Barnwell. “Winter after winter, we made complaint after complaint for this issue to be addressed. Thank you to Governor Hochul for addressing this life-or-death issue after years of broken promises from others. This investment will help save lives.”

“Since August 2021, our neighbors in NYCHA Woodside Houses have been living without heat and hot water. Hurricane Ida flooded the outdated heating plants, and they were never fixed. Access to sustainable, environmentally friendly heat sources are a necessity,” said New York City Councilmember Julie Won. “We saw firsthand how many of our residents were living without heat in the dead of winter, like those who experienced the fire at the Twin Parks complex in the Bronx. Clean Heat for All is essential to ensuring that our NYCHA residents don’t overheat or freeze during outages. Installing 150,000 electric heat pumps in NYCHA complexes across our city is an important step towards a greener New York, and I want to thank Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Adams for prioritizing Woodside Houses during this launch.”

“Midea is excited to be leading the development of new technologies that can support more energy efficient and environmentally friendly options for heating and cooling,” said Adam Schultz, research and development manager, Midea America Research Center Residential Air Conditioning. “Midea has a rich history of developing innovative air conditioning products, including cutting-edge heat pump and inverter technologies. As a result, the product we have developed for the Clean Heat for All Challenge is the next generation of innovation, leveraging our decades of expertise to deliver a cold climate window heat pump at very high efficiency levels. We feel that this product is a great step towards achieving the clean energy goals that the city and state are striving for and the beginning of a strong partnership.”

“With the introduction of Local Law 97, New York City took a major step forward in the urgent fight against climate change,” said Vince Romanin, CEO, Gradient. “And as the largest public housing authority in North America, NYCHA faced an interesting challenge with LL97: putting heat pumps in buildings that weren’t designed for them. As many of our customers have found, installing mini-split heat pumps in older buildings can be expensive and complicated. But the way NYCHA is promoting electrified heating and efficient AC through the Clean Heat for All Challenge is a testament to its commitment to the comfort of its residents and the resilience of its infrastructure. This partnership is a huge validation of Gradient’s vision to advance building decarbonization in New York City and beyond.”

“The Fund for Public Housing is proud to support this innovative public-private partnership by launching the Clean Energy Academy, preparing public housing residents to work in a 21^st-century career,” said Alex Zablocki, executive director, Fund for Public Housing. “With our partners at NYCHA, and support from governmental agencies and the private sector, the Clean Energy Academy will train 100 NYCHA residents within two years readying them for careers in building electrification and clean energy, providing residents with the opportunity to learn new skills and advance a career in this growing sector. The academy will provide a tailored curriculum to meet the needs of NYCHA’s decarbonization goals. This program is only possible with the multi-year philanthropic support and technical expertise of our partners.”

Governor Hochul Announces New Yorkers Can Now Choose an "X" Gender Marker on NYS Driver License and ID Cards

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that New Yorkers will have the option to choose “X” as a gender marker on their driver license, learner permit, or non-driver ID card at all Department of Motor Vehicle offices statewide. This change is being implemented in accordance with the State’s Gender Recognition Act, which goes into effect on June 24. This landmark legislation provides expanded protections for transgender and non-binary New Yorkers through this change at the DMV and by making it easier for people to change their names, change their sex designation and change their birth certificates to reflect their identity.

“As we prepare to celebrate Pride Month in a few days, I am excited to announce this historic change that represents another victory in our fight to help ensure equality and respect for the LGBTQ+ community,” Governor Hochul said. “Every person, regardless of their gender identity or expression, deserves to have an identity document that reflects who they are. My administration remains committed to ensuring that New York is a place of value, love and belonging for members of the LGBTQ+ community.”

Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said, “Perhaps more than any other state agency, New Yorkers directly engage with their government through the DMV, so offering identity documents that are representative of all New Yorkers is a significant milestone. We are thrilled to implement this new option that we know will have a positive impact on the lives of so many of our customers.”

Division of Human Rights Commissioner Maria Imperial said, “We applaud our state’s important action to ensure that these essential ID documents accurately reflect and affirm who we are. We will continue working to advance dignity and eliminate discrimination against transgender and non-binary people in New York State.”

Deputy Chief Diversity Officer Priya Nair said, “As a transgender and non-binary New Yorker, this action means that I can now get a driver license that better reflects my identity. It’s not only the correct gender marker, but it’s also an action which demonstrates that New York State affirms and sees me for who I am. Thank you to Governor Hochul, the Department of Motor Vehicles, and all of the non-binary and transgender advocates who pushed for this important and inclusive change. As other states attack and roll back protections for transgender people, I am proud to live in a state that will continue to fight for our communities.”

New Yorkers who have an existing driver license, learner permit, or non-driver ID will have the option to change the gender marker on their photo ID from “M” or “F” to “X”, and those who are applying for a NYS photo ID for the first time will have the option to choose “X”. This can be done by completing the Application for Permit, Driver License or Non-Driver ID Card (MV-44).

Customers who do not want to visit a DMV office to change their existing ID document will have the option to change their gender designation through an online transaction beginning in July 2022.

State Senator Brad Hoylman said, “Each and every New Yorker should be recognized for who they are by their government. Before the Gender Recognition Act, it was incredibly hard for many New Yorkers to get the identification documents they require for travel, to get a job, and even to go to school. But on June 24, when the GRA takes effect thanks to the efforts of TGNB activists, all gender non-conforming, transgender, non-binary, and intersex New Yorkers will be able to receive IDs that accurately reflect their identity. I’m proud to live in and represent a state that respects and values the needs of these communities – particularly as queer, and especially transgender young people, have come under attack in recent months across our country. Thank you, Governor Hochul, DMV Commissioner Schroeder, and Division of Human Rights Commissioner Imperial for overseeing the implementation of this important law.”

Lambda Legal Senior Attorney Carl Charles said, “This is a significant step forward in the fight for lived equality for transgender, nonbinary, and gender non-conforming people in New York State. Thanks to Lambda Legal’s work on behalf of Mx. Sander Saba, and the enactment of the Gender Recognition Act, the State of New York has finally turned the page on a discriminatory, outdated policy. Nonbinary, transgender, and gender non-conforming New Yorkers now have access to accurate, state-issued identity documents that are critical to day to day life in New York. While there is more work to be done, today marks a significant step forward in the right direction. We acknowledge the work of those who made this day possible including Mx. Sander Saba, nonbinary and transgender advocates here in New York, and our law firm pro bono partners O’Melveny Myers LLP. We also extend our sincere thanks to Governor Hochul, and the New York Department of Motor Vehicles for moving the needle forward for transgender and nonbinary New Yorkers.”

Plaintiff Sander Saba said, “It’s my sincere hope that, as we move ahead, other transgender and non-binary New Yorkers will be able to live their lives with the respect and dignity they deserve in every facet of their lives, aided by accurate state-issued identification. Every person should be able to access identity documents that reflect who they truly are without having to validate their personhood in court.”

This announcement comes as part of the major advancements in LGBTQ+ equity Governor Hochul fought for and secured in the Enacted Fiscal Year 2023 State Budget. The Budget includes $13.5 million for the Department of Health to support the LGBTQ+ community and more than doubles annual LGBTQ+ Health and Human Services funding. In addition, the Budget includes legislation requiring state agencies to provide an option for individuals to mark their gender or sex as a non-binary “X” on all state forms that collect gender or sex information. Agencies are also required to include that information in data collection. The Enacted Budget also enables transgender New Yorkers to change their names or gender designations on marriage certificates without leaving their dead names on them.

ICYMI: AOC Talks Reasons Behind AOC-Trump Voters, Trump Nominations on The ReidOut

Last night on MSNBC’s The ReidOut, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez revealed what she learned from her conversations with Trump voters in her district who also voted for her own re-election, and the lessons Democrats must understand. She also discussed the recent nominations of Matt Gaetz, RFK Jr, and Tulsi Gabbard to the Trump cabinet.

Rep. Ocasio-Cortez said, “There are millions of people in this country who are working two, three shifts a day to make ends meet. You’re not reading the newspaper everyday with a cup of coffee.”

Watch the clip here, and watch the full interview here.

Schumer Announces $150 Million in Rental Assistance for NYCHA Residents

Hi—today, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer is announcing $150 million in federal funding for NYCHA tenants through funding provisions he included in the American Rescue Plan.

Please see his statement and more details below:

“At long last, I am very pleased that this $150 million I fought hard to deliver to help tenants avoid eviction and weather the worst economic impacts of COVID is rightfully being delivered to struggling NYCHA residents,” said Senator Schumer. “When I led the American Rescue Plan to passage, I specifically added provisions—including a historic $5 billion for the HOME program—to address housing issues that were amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic. I have led the charge to protect and expand federal resources for public housing, including NYCHA, and I’ll continue to fight to ensure that all New Yorkers have access to affordable and safe housing.”

· Schumer announces up to $150 million in rental assistance to eligible residents via HOME-ARP program funded by Schumer-passed American Rescue Plan

This is a federally funded program awarded to the City of New York by HUD and administered by the New York City Department of Housing Preservation & Development (HPD).

· This funding will help residents recover from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic—helping to pay rent and ensure housing stability.

· Schumer’s American Rescue Plan (ARP) significantly boosted the HOME program by allocating a historic $5 billion to reduce homelessness and housing insecurity.

· Schumer has long-fought for this critical funding to help struggling NYCHA tenants avoid eviction and/or housing insecurity.

· Schumer has led the charge to protect and expand federal resources for public housing, including NYCHA, and will continue to fight to ensure that all New Yorkers have access to affordable and safe housing.

Schumer Statement on Proposed Community Improvements for the Cross Bronx Expressway

Schumer statement on today’s announcement regarding concepts to improve connections and safety along the Cross Bronx Expressway—

“For too long the people of the Bronx have borne the brunt of the consequences of the Cross Bronx Expressway, which literally split neighborhoods in half and left a legacy of pollution and high asthma rates,” said U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer. “That’s why I’m proud I delivered the $2 million federal RAISE grant that funded this community-based study to determine the best solutions and redesign, and ideally cap, the Cross Bronx sustainably and equitably. I personally advocated with Rep. Ritchie Torres, community groups and local leaders to Secretary Buttigieg to deliver the federal grant needed for this study, and I’m glad to see New York City moving forward with proposals for community improvements.”

Majority Leader Schumer Floor Remarks Honoring The Lives Lost And Heroic Actions Taken On September 11th, 2001

Washington, D.C. – Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) today spoke on the Senate floor to honor those who lost their lives and those who undertook brave acts of heroism on 9/11, emphasizing his commitment to work every day to ensure the survivors of the attack receive the care they deserve. Below are Senator Schumer’s remarks, which can also be viewed here:

This morning, I stood at Ground Zero in New York, joining President Biden, Vice President Harris, New York leaders, and thousands of New Yorkers to mark the twenty-third anniversary of 9/11.

So many of those who lost loved ones were there, remembering. It’s been twenty-three years.

Now, every day, I wear this American flag pin on my lapel as a reminder of our sacred promise to never forget. Today, the pin is a little heavier.

The day after 9/11, 9/12, I called on Americans to wear the flag, to display it out their windows or wear it on their clothing as a show of solidarity and a show of our anguish over so many who were lost and at that time, missing. I’ve worn the flag every day since. Every day since. Because I never forget.

I knew people who were lost: a guy I played basketball with in high school, a businessman who helped me on the way up, a firefighter, I went around the city with him, urging people to donate blood. And so it’s a tough day.

It’s been twenty-three years since 9/11, but I remember it like yesterday: the smell of the pile, the images of destruction that New Yorkers had never seen before.

I remember the chilling and otherworldly images of people lining up on the sidewalks, hundreds of them, with pictures, because no one knew who was dead and who wasn’t. Unfortunately, very few survived. But the pictures, “Have you seen my daughter Mary?” “Have you seen my brother John?” I’ll never forget. And I had some of those pictures donated to the 9/11 museum.

I remember people I knew, as I said, who died in the attack.

But I also remember the heroism: first responders disregarding their own safety and running towards danger to save others.

I remember New Yorkers going out of their way to help each other, complete strangers joining to pray together, grieve together, and work together to rebuild and heal.

Many had ran down those stairs to escape the towers, and left their shoes behind, and right a block away was a guy with a shoe store just handing out shoes to people. That’s the kind of people New Yorkers are and Americans are.

Twenty-three years later, our sacred obligation to care for the survivors, and their families, continues. In the last two years, I’ve secured nearly $1.7 billion in funding for the World Trade Health Center Program, which helps first responders and survivors treat cancers and respiratory sicknesses and mental health and more. I thank Senator Gillibrand, who’s been a great partner on this, and the New York delegation in the House, bipartisan.

Earlier this year, we introduced legislation to make funding for this program permanent, so that our 9/11 heroes and families don’t have to keep coming down to Washington to ask and advocate for the care they deserve.

In the last Congress, I was proud to work with my colleagues to pass the Fairless for 9/11 Families Act, which finally compensated those who were wrongly left out of the Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Fund.

That is what never forget means. It is not a passive promise, it is an active commitment to work every day to ensure the survivors of those terrible days are provided for. It is a prayer that America may find the strength and grace to always endure, to always weather the storm, to always come back from adversity stronger and more united than before, and to never turn on each other, but to be unified in our strength and camaraderie.

SCHUMER REVEALS: FOR THE FIRST TIME MEDICARE HAS JUST NEGOTIATED LOWER PRICES FOR 10 HIGH-COST, COMMONLY TAKEN PRESCRIPTION DRUGS FOR 660,000+ NEW YORK SENIORS ON MEDICARE THANKS TO THE INFLATION REDUCTION ACT; SENATOR BREAKS DOWN WHICH DRUGS & MONUMENTAL IMPACT FOR AMERICAN SENIORS WHO WILL SOON SAVE $1.5 BILLION EVERY YEAR IN OUT OF POCKET COSTS

Schumer Says Announcement Will Help 660,000+ New Yorkers Who Take The Ten Drugs For Diabetes, Cancer, Heart Disease, And More – Nationwide This Is Expected To Save Seniors Nearly $1.5 Billion In Out Of Pocket Costs In First Year, And Will Save Taxpayers $6 Billion

Announcement Is Next Step In Schumer’s Inflation Reduction Act’s Efforts To Lower Prescription Drug Costs Which Has Already Put A Cap On Total Out-Of-Pocket Drug Costs; $35 Insulin Cap For Medicare, Free Vaccines & Penalties On Drug Companies For Price Hikes Already In Effect

Schumer: More $$ In NY Seniors’ Pockets & Less For Big Pharma Is A Win-Win

With more than 3.8 million seniors in New York on Medicare, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer announced today that Medicare has reached new, lower, and fairer negotiated prices with 10 of the highest-spend drugs in Medicare thanks to a major provision Schumer secured in the Inflation Reduction Act that for the first time allows the federal government to directly negotiate drug prices with pharmaceutical companies. Schumer said the 10 highly common drugs treat a variety of conditions including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, and once the new prices go into effect in 2026 are expected to save seniors over $1.5 billion every year in out of pocket costs. This will also help save taxpayers nearly $6 billion every year.

“This is historic and will lower drug costs for over 660,000 New Yorkers. For too long, New York seniors have struggled to afford their prescription drugs and were powerless to do anything about it. The drug cost what the pharmaceutical company said it did and that was that. New Yorkers wanted fair negotiations with Big Pharma, and because of the Inflation Reduction Act, they got it. For the first time in history, Medicare has negotiated better and fairer prices for 10 high cost commonly taken prescription drugs that cover heart disease, diabetes, cancer and more,” said Senator Schumer. “This means money back in the pockets of the more than 660,000 New Yorkers who take them – putting patients and NY seniors ahead of Big Pharma profits.”

Seniors in America are paying higher prices than anywhere else in the world for commonly-taken drugs. Nationally, one-in-five seniors recently reported forgoing medication, skipping doses or cutting pills in half because they could not afford their drugs.

For many of the most commonly taken drugs, pharmaceutical companies have maintained monopolistic prices by successfully preventing generic versions of their drugs, keeping competition off the market and prices high for patients. The new Medicare negotiation program targets exactly these types of drugs and is designed to get at this very problem. This year, Medicare selected for negotiation the 10 highest spending drugs in Medicare Part D that do not have generic versions of their drugs but are eligible for such competition. Next year, Medicare will select another 15 Part D drugs for negotiation. In 2027, it will negotiate another 15 drugs while also expanding negotiation to Medicare Part B, which covers drugs administered in a physician’s office. In 2028 and every year after, Medicare will negotiate a new set of 20 drugs. 50 million Americans are enrolled in the Medicare Part D prescription drug program, over 3 million of which are in New York.

“Lowering healthcare costs for seniors is just what the doctor ordered. I wrote my Inflation Reduction Act with the sky-high costs of health care in mind, because I know how important it is to ensure that everyone can access the medication they need,” added Schumer.

Schumer said these new Medicare drug negotiated prices will work in tandem with other major drug affordability provisions he secured in his Inflation Reduction Act, including a cap on total out-of-pocket drug costs that drops to $2,000 per year starting in January, making vaccines free for seniors and a $35 insulin cap for those on Medicare, to help make healthcare more affordable for more than 3.8 million New York seniors on Medicare.

SCHUMER REVEALS: AMID DANGEROUS LISTERIA OUTBREAK SICKENING NYC & LI RESIDENTS, MAGA GOP IN HOUSE NOW PROPOSING $1.8B SLASH TO CDC; AGENCY IS TRACKING CURRENT OUTBREAK & SAVING LIVES; SENATOR VOWS PUBLIC BLOCK OF CUT AMID BUDGET NEGOTIATIONS

U.S. Is In Midst Of Listeria Outbreak Stemming From Boars Head Deli Meats; People Are Sick Across Nation, Including Across NYC & LI; At Least 3 Dead Nationwide

Schumer Is Currently Negotiating Fed Budget; MAGA GOP Wants CDC Slashed By Nearly $2B Or 22% Of Entire Budget—Which Would Create Chaos For Food Safety; Senator Announces Public “No”

Schumer: I Will Not Let MAGA “Cold Cuts” To CDC Amid Listeria Outbreak Pass Senate

Amid a national listeria outbreak stemming from Boar’s Head deli meats, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer revealed that the agency tracking it and saving lives—the CDC—is now facing a $2 billion dollar (or a 22%) slash of its entire agency, as proposed by the MAGA House amid ongoing budget negotiations. Schumer, today, revealed that a cut like this would wreak havoc and chaos on food safety funding mechanisms and tracking operations at a core level. Locally, Schumer announced a special CDC food safety team is working across NYC & LI and that this kid of cut would impede the work.

“Right now, the CDC is tracking, using DNA, the deli meat listeria outbreak and saving lives across the country, and that includes across New York City and Long Island, where people have been sickened,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “As the CDC does this work, they are also facing a MAGA House slash of $2 billion dollars or 22% of their entire budget, and I am here today to say: no cold cuts will pass the Senate.”

Schumer announced a public blocking of this $2B cut amid active budget negotiations as he made the case for the CDC to continue its overall work uninterrupted. Schumer said, today, that absent public reassurance that this 22% cut will not make it through, the current listeria tracking and overall food safety apparatus of the federal government could be risked, and that includes the operation across NYC and Long Island.

“I am here today amid active federal budget negotiations to say that I will not let MAGA cold cuts to the CDC amid this deli meat listeria outbreak pass the Senate,” said Schumer. “We are on recess, and the CDC needs this public guidance from the Senate so that it doesn’t risk cutting back on the current efforts to track, test, contain and stop this outbreak. So, I can publicly say that a 22% cut of the CDC will not happen with me as Majority Leader.”

Schumer also announced that the CDC has a special team focused on New York City and Long Island, where people have been sickened. This team is working with New York State health officials on testing, reporting and tracking. This team is operational across the city, Nassau and Suffolk counties. Schumer says they will stay operational until the listeria outbreak is contained.

As CBS reported, Schumer confirms, at least a dozen cases of listeria have been reported across New York state in connection to the national outbreak linked to the deli meats. At least four of those cases are in New York City, and at least two are on Long Island, across Nassau and Suffolk. The remaining five cases, according to CBS reports, are in Cayuga, Dutchess, Greene, Onondaga and Oswego counties. All 12 patients had to be hospitalized, according to CBS.

“New York is partially an epicenter of the sickness with the listeria outbreak, and so I have asked the CDC to focus a special team here to address the situation, and they have, and I laud their efforts and praise this grueling work,” said Schumer.

According to ABC, three people have now died in a listeria food poisoning outbreak linked to Boar’s Head deli meats, federal food safety officials announced Thursday, and the overall number of people sickened rose to 43.

The additional death happened in Virginia, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in a news release Thursday. The other two deaths were in New Jersey and Illinois. The CDC also reported to ABC that nine more cases were reported since a July 31 release about the outbreak, which started in late May.

Boar’s Head recalled 7 million pounds of deli meats on July 30, expanding an initial recall on July 25 after a liverwurst sample collected by health officials in Maryland tested positive for listeria, ABC reported. The CDC said Thursday that New York health officials tested a liverwurst sample and confirmed the same strain of listeria. Schumer, today, confirmed that the CDC is currently testing more New York locations for this outbreak strain via their special team.

Listeria is a bacteria that can contaminate foods.

CBS reports, doctors say anyone who has the recalled deli meat at home should clean any surfaces or containers the meat may have touched, as well as the refrigerator, to avoid cross-contamination.

Symptoms can occur up to two months after eating contaminated food and include gastrointestinal issues, headache, muscle ache or fever. Those who have been sickened can be treated with antibiotics, but those who are immunocompromised are at greater risk.

“They get severe disease, which can include what’s called meningitis, an inflammation in the tissues around the brain, or the infection can go to the blood … In those cases, patients become septic. They might end up in the ICU or the critical care unit and mortality will be very high,” Dr. Mohamed Nakeshbandi, chief medical officer and infectious disease specialist at SUNY Downstate Medical Center, told CBS.

Doctors also say heating meat to at least 165 degrees will kill listeria.

NOW-RETURNED PRISONERS OF RUSSIA NEED HELP FROM IRS NOW THAT THEY ARE BACK HOME IN AMERICA BECAUSE THEY HAVE YEARS OF NO FILINGS; SENATOR WANTS IRS FINES & FEES FOR JUST-FREED AMERICANS TOTALLY WAIVED; HE ALREADY PASSED BILL TO FIX THIS FOR ALL CASES—IT IS WAITING FOR SPEAKER JOHNSON

Senator Says Now-Returned Prisoners From Russia—Evan Gershkovich, Alsu Kurmasheva & Paul Whelan—Will Slowly Get Their Lives Back BUT Part Of What Awaits Them Is IRS Late Fees & Fines For The Years They Were Hostage; Schumer Wants This Burden That Could Hurt Their Credit & Cause Great Stress GONE & Says IRS Can Acknowledge Special Circumstance

Schumer Passed Bill In May That Fixed This For ALL Hostages—With Even Retro Payments For Past Cases; Now With Our Heroes Home Safe, Schumer Wants Speaker Johnson To Join Senate & Swiftly Make It Law Of Land

Schumer: When A U.S. Citizen Returns To America After Years As A Political Hostage, The LAST Thing They Deserve Is An IRS Bill; This Makes Sense To Fix, And It Should Not Be Political

Just days after American hostages were released from Russia and arrived at Kelly Field Air Force Base in San Antonio, U.S. Senator Schumer detailed a little-known fact: each will have fines and fees with the IRS now that they are back home. Schumer said that the now-returned prisoners of Russia will need help from the IRS back here at home because they have, in some cases, many years of no IRS filings, saddling them with burdensome fines and fees.

“We are so thankful that the Russian hostages have been returned to America. This was a long fight and it marks adept leadership by President Biden and Vice President Harris, but now we need the IRS to do something that makes a whole lot of sense: waive the fines and fees that await these folks now that they are back home, where they belong,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “I helped pass a bill to get this done, but it is waiting on Speaker Johnson. In the meantime, the IRS should do all it can to work with these brave folks directly.”

Schumer explained that in a situation such as this –an American hostage in a foreign country—IRS fines and fees accrue. Schumer, today, is asking the IRS to “totally waive” these tax fines and fees for the hostages who were just rescued. Schumer also announced that he passed legislation to fix this exact problem in May, via unanimous consent (UC) on the Senate floor.

The Senate unanimously passed the Stop Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act led by U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.). The bipartisan bill would stop the IRS from imposing fines and penalties on American hostages and wrongful detainees for late tax payments while they are held abroad.

Schumer explained that the fix not only would address this situation right now, but also in the future, and it would be retroactive so that freed hostages who ended up paying fines and fees were reimbursed. Schumer, today, called on House Speaker Johnson to finish the job of the Senate and pass this fix in the House.

In the meantime, Schumer said that the IRS can treat these cases as special situations and work with each person now that they have been released from Russia. Schumer said that when a U.S. citizen returns to America after years as a political hostage, the last thing they deserve is a bill. Schumer said this could hamper their credit and cause great stress. Schumer said this makes all the sense in the world to fix, and that it shouldn’t be political.

“When a U.S. citizen returns to America after years as a political hostage, the last thing they deserve is an IRS bill,” Schumer said. “This fix makes sense and it’s why I led it to pass in the Senate with Senator Coons and others. This should be an easy one—not political, and my hope is that Speaker Johnson will move with speed to get this done.”

“Coming home from being held hostage or wrongfully detained abroad to find that your government has penalized you for being unable to pay your taxes is a moral outrage. I’m glad that my colleagues agree and that the Stop Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act has been unanimously cleared by the Senate,” said Senator Coons. “I urge my colleagues in the House to pass this important bipartisan legislation and join me in supporting Americans unjustly held abroad.”

The “Stop Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act” amends the Internal Revenue Code to prevent the IRS from imposing penalties on wrongful detainees and hostages who miss payments while they are held abroad.

“These folks aren’t tax cheats. They’re victims of political persecution, and we want to make sure that a burden like this, IRS fines and fees, that could hurt their credit and cause great stress is totally removed,” Schumer said.

SCHUMER REVEALS: MAGA GOP LEGISLATIVE PLAN DUBBED “PROJECT 2025” WOULD SLASH VETERAN BENEFITS & CREATE CHAOS FOR VETS ACROSS NYC & LI; PROPOSAL ERODES DISABILITY BENEFITS, BIPARTISAN PACT ACT, OVERSIGHT & MORE; SENATOR SOUNDS ALARM & PLEDGES PLAN WILL NOT SEE SENATE FLOOR UNDER HIS LEADERSHIP

Senator Says GOP “Project 2025” Plan Represents Extreme Legislation Or Ideas That Would Cut Across Litany Of Services— Wreaking Particular Havoc On The VA & Veterans

Schumer Says Bipartisan Law—The PACT Act—He Wrote & Biden/Harris Admin Signed Into Law Is A Target Of Plan, Which Finally Helped Vets With Toxic Exposures In Burn Pits; Other Extreme, Unpopular Or Long-Dead Legislative Ideas Could Be Revived If Public Isn’t Made Aware

Schumer: Critical NYC & LI Veteran Benefits & Care Is Target Of “Project 2025” Agenda; But I Won’t Let Legislative Plan That Takes Aim At Vets See Senate Floor

Standing at the local VA with veterans, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer revealed that the new, benignly-named GOP policy agenda dubbed “Project 2025” would have a disastrous impact on the VA and create chaos for New York City and Long Island vets, especially those now receiving health benefits that Schumer had to fight hard to win. Schumer explained, deep in the morass of the plan, in black and white, reads legislative endeavors to erode veteran disability benefits, undo the strength of the bipartisan PACT Act—which had massive support across NYC and on Long Island—and deplete oversight that holds the VA accountable for a myriad of benchmarks.

“There is a proposal right now—written, pushed and pledged—by the MAGA extreme that would slash veteran benefits and create chaos for vets across New York City, Long Island and the nation. It’s called Project 2025,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “Now, when faced with questions on these proposals, MAGA is running away, claiming they don’t know anything. Hear, see, speak no evil. But this extreme effort has a website that we can see, authors that we can hear and MAGA cheerleaders who speak and still surround former President Trump. Today, we are here to make it clear that no one is cheering, that vets want answers, and that any plans to slash VA benefits, degrade the bipartisan PACT Act or hurt our veterans under the guise of some clandestine project reform will not stand.”

Schumer sounded the alarm on this little-known ‘project’ and pledged that, under his majority, the VA will not be depleted, that vet benefits will be protected, and that the Senate floor will not consider proposals that undo years of bipartisan progress on veteran affairs, benefits and healthcare. Schumer laid out these details as he explained that other extreme, unpopular or long-dead legislative ideas could be revived if the public isn’t made aware of what Project 2025 exactly wants to achieve.

Schumer explained that Project 2025 is a 900-plus page legislative-laced blueprint for a next Trump Administration. It was written by a group of far-right conservatives, including many senior officials from the Trump Administration. The VA chapter was written by Brooks Tucker, the Assistant Secretary for Congressional and Legislative Affairs and later the Acting Chief of Staff under the Trump Administration’s VA. The chapter received contributions from two other officials of note: Darin Selnick of the Concerned Veterans for America / Trump VA and Chris Anderson, a political appointee in the Trump VA and now an advisor for Senator Steve Daines (this is noted on page 654).

Among some of the concerning proposals impacting veterans are:

Proposing to Erode Disability Benefits for Veterans: Project 2025 gleans that recent expansions of veterans’ benefits, such as the PACT Act (Page 643), cost too much money. It would reduce future veterans’ monthly disability compensation by revising VA’s rating schedule that governs service-connection and how much vets are compensated for their disabilities. In doing so, it would create two classes of veterans –– those who are grandfathered into the original benefits calculations, and those new recipients who would receive less compensation for the same disabilities.

“This gobbledygook can be summed up in three words: slash veteran benefits,” warned Schumer. “I fought hard for the PACT Act, which once and for all gave vets the benefits they earned for the service. Prior, had you gotten a major agent orange cancer, there was no coverage, burn pit cancer, no coverage. We righted that wrong, and this plan would undo it all.”

“The bottom line here is that Project 2025 would erode hard-earned VA disability compensation benefits, and undo the impact of the PACT Act and other historic expansions of veterans’ benefits simply because they believe caring for veterans is too expensive and not a cost of war. We should never balance the budget on the backs of veterans,” he said.

Abandoning Accountability: Slashing independent accountability and investigations of VA senior leaders and whistleblower protection by ending the Office of Accountability and Whistleblower Protection (OAWP) created by Congress with support from the Trump Administration in 2017.

“This here is an effort to do bad things and get away with them, from trying to ‘modernize’ to skimping on care. We need oversight because it often leads to needed reforms,” Schumer said.

Will revive effort to shutdown Long Island’s Northport VA (the only VA on the Island): Via page 646, “the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee lacked the political will to act on the White House’s nominations of commission members, and this ultimately led to termination of the AIR process. The next Administration should seek out agile, creative, and politically acceptable operational solutions.”

“Imagine this, I fought—and won—to keep Long Island’s Northport VA open. This will propose to once again close it, and this time, they could get away with it,” said Schumer.

According to the plan, they propose drastically reducing VA funds. This will be done by:

Ending the enrollment of veterans in VA Medical care for veterans who are in lower priority groups.
Narrowing eligibility for veterans with disabilities unrelated to military duties.
Putting a 10-year time limit on initial applications for disability compensation.

These cuts will take away funding even from veterans who have already been receiving disability compensation in the past. Over 9 million Veterans are enrolled in the VA Health Care System meaning that these proposed cuts and policy changes will affect a massive amount of people.

“The thing about “Project 2025” is that they’ve used all the glitter in the world—a fancy website, a book—to try and trick people, but when you shake it all off, it remains what it is: a bunch of bad ideas that aim to hurt working people and vets who served this country,” said Schumer.

SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND DELIVER MASSIVE $110 MILLION IN FED FUND RELIEF TO MONTEFIORE HEALTH FOR INCURRED COVID-19 EXPENSES; NY HOSPITALS PULLED OUT ALL THE STOPS TO KEEP THE BRONX & WESTCHESTER COUNTY SAFE AMID PANDEMIC; REIMBURSEMENT HELPS CONTINUE STRONG HEALTHCARE AT MONTEFIORE; SCHUMER SUCCESSFULLY PUSHED FEMA TO REIMBURSE NY HOPSITALS FOR 100% OF THEIR COVID COSTS

U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $110,518,745.96 in emergency federal funds they pushed to deliver for Montefiore Health System Inc. These federal funds were administered through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) via a reimbursement structure Schumer helped shape.

“New York’s hospitals, especially Montefiore, undertook an incredible pandemic response and the hospital system both deserves and needs to be repaid for the funds they expended on COVID-19 related supplies, equipment and staffing,” said Senator Schumer. “These federal funds will reimburse Montefiore for the cost of ventilators, testing kits, personal protective equipment, disinfection supplies, and medical staffing that helped limit the spread of the virus and kept patients and staff as safe as possible during such a stressful and unpredictable time. I applaud FEMA for its responsiveness to the needs of New York’s hospitals and the unique challenges they faced during the pandemic.”

“Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Montefiore Health System’s facilities provided life-saving care for countless New Yorkers,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This $110 million in federal funding will reimburse Montefiore Health System for the emergency response and protective measures that helped protect the health and safety of thousands during the pandemic. I am proud to deliver this federal funding and will continue to fight for federal resources to keep New Yorkers safe.”

Schumer explained that Montefiore Health System, comprised of ten hospitals and more than 200 outpatient ambulatory care sites, has previously received more than $169 million in federal funding to reimburse COVID-19 costs. This latest award of $110 million brings the total reimbursement to more than $279 million. Montefiore also received $625 million from the Provider Relief Fund (PRF), which made payments to eligible providers who diagnosed, tested, or cared for individuals with possible or actual cases of COVID-19 and had health care-related expenses and lost revenues attributable to COVID-19. These federal funds will be used to cover the full cost of resources needed to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, including ventilators, medical equipment, cleaning and disinfection supplies, diagnostic testing kits, personal protective equipment (coveralls, face shields, medical gowns, medical gloves, N95 respirators, surgical masks, shoe covers and medical caps), and medical staffing. All supplies purchased and contracted services were directly related to and used to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Schumer secured historic funding levels for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) through the American Rescue Plan and prior COVID response and relief bills. He also ensured that hospitals can receive up to 100% reimbursement for costs related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the pandemic, many hospitals and health centers have exceeded their normal and assisted operating budgets as they undertook emergency protective measures. FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) program reimburses hospitals and medical facilities for these activities as they worked day and night to protect our communities against COVID-19. This significant federal investment will be used to cover previous COVID-19 response and operational costs.

CREDIT CARD LATE FEES AT AVERAGE OF $32 CAN PILE ON DEBT & GET OUTRAGEOUSLY HIGH; NEW SUPREME COURT RULING GIVES HOPE THAT LATE FEE CAP OF $8 COULD SURVIVE; SENATOR SAYS TEXAS COURT NOW BLOCKING $8 FEE CAP SHOULD SIDE WITH CONSUMERS RIGHT NOW

Last Thursday, The Supreme Court Ruled That Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Is Allowed To Enact Consumer Rule That Would Cap Credit Fees That Just Keep Going Up—To $8—BUT Texas Court Is Gratuitously Holding This All Up To Side With Big Business

Schumer Shines Light On Hard Right Plan To Stick It To Consumers & Says CFPB Must Be Allowed To Do Its Job & That Consumers Have Had Enough With Junk Fees; Enact $8 Cap Now; NEW YORK’S AVERAGE LATE FEE IS $21

Schumer: Now That Supreme Court Green-Lit Credit Card Fee Cap Via CFPB Ruling, Texas Court Needs To End The Games

On the heels of a Supreme Court decision, just last week, that frees the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) to do its job on behalf of consumers, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer said that the credit card late fee cap of $8 is ALIVE and can still be done—and that he wants it enacted ASAP. Schumer said that credit card companies keep raising the late fees and that it was piling on debt for average families month after month.

Schumer said that a Texas court, led by a Trump hard-right judge, was cherry-picked to side with giant companies over consumers and that this court cannot hold out for long because of the recent Supreme Court ruling. Schumer will say now that the Supreme Court said CFPB has a right and duty to do its job, that the Texas court must stop the games and allow the cap to be enacted. Schumer detailed why a cap on credit late fees is needed and said what should happen next with all junk fees that are meant to burden consumers.

“Junk fees, like late fees on credit cards, are meant to pile up and get so unaffordable that the customer simply drowns in debt—it’s unfair and has got to end,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “I have a long history tussling with the credit card companies when they step over the line and try and squeeze the consumer for all they got, and that is why I am so adamant about getting this late fee cap enacted: because it won’t hurt the credit card companies and it will help consumers. The credit card companies are making billions in fees while consumers try and pay all the fees along the way.”

According to the Associated Press, the Supreme Court on Thursday rejected a conservative-led attack that could have undermined the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. The justices ruled 7-2 that the way the CFPB is funded does not violate the Constitution, reversing a lower court decision and drawing praises from consumers. Justice Clarence Thomas wrote the majority opinion, splitting with his frequent allies, Justices Samuel Alito and Neil Gorsuch, who dissented.

The AP also reiterated in their reporting that the CFPB was created after the 2008 financial crisis to regulate mortgages, car loans and other consumer finance. The case was brought by payday lenders who object to a bureau rule that limits their ability to withdraw funds directly from borrowers’ bank accounts. It’s among several major challenges to federal regulatory agencies on the docket this term for a court that has for more than a decade been open to limits on their operations.

“Now that the Supreme Court green-lit the credit card fee cap of $8 via this CFPB ruling, the Texas court and its hard-right judge must end the games and do what is right for consumers,” added Schumer.

Schumer says this Supreme Court win means the effort to cap credit card late fees to $8 is still alive, and should not be blocked. Instead, Schumer, today, said it should be enacted ASAP.

“The goal of a $8 late fee cap is not only alive, but it is likely, and I want it enacted ASAP. The average New York late fee is $21, but it can pile up and compound based on balance. A cap would be a cushion for many people who don’t skirt their bills, but have found that the fees just kill them,” said Schumer.

According to CNN, a federal judge in Fort Worth, Texas had blocked a new Biden administration rule that would prohibit credit card companies from charging customers late fees higher than $8. US District Judge Mark T. Pittman, an appointee of former President Donald Trump, granted a preliminary injunction to several business and banking organizations that allege the new rule violates several federal statutes. These organizations, led by the right-leaning US Chamber of Commerce, sued the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau after the rule was finalized in March. The rule, which was set to go into effect Tuesday, would save consumers about $10 billion per year by cutting fees from an average of $32, the CFPB estimated. A preliminary injunction means the rule can’t go into effect until a hearing is held where the case can be adjudicated in greater detail, CNN further reported.

According to Chase Bank, late fees are determined based on a variety of factors. Sometimes the credit card’s balance is used to determine the late fee. The payment history may be a factor in determining if and how much of a late fee is charged. The amount of the fee may also depend on how much is owed, the issuer’s limits, and the fee may also be higher if payments are repeatedly late. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau reported in 2022 that the average late fee in New York State was $21. According to Forbes, U.S. credit cardholders collectively spent $15 billion on late fees in 2022, surpassing pre-pandemic levels again.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau published a report in March 2022 on credit card late fees and detailed the impact on consumers. In 2019, a consumer with a major issuer’s credit card was charged a $26 late fee on average for each late payment—except for each subsequent late fee within six billing cycles of an earlier late payment. For those, the average fee rose to over $34. Credit card late fees disproportionately burden consumers in low-income and majority-Black neighborhoods. Penalty fees can represent a surcharge of 24 percent annualized on top of assessed interest on unpaid balances—one of multiple financial consequences of a missed payment.

ON HEELS OF BOMB THREATS AT SYNAGOGUES ACROSS MANHATTAN LAST NIGHT, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES THAT A NEW $400 MILLION HE PROCURED IN JUST-PASSSED LAW IS NOW AVAILABLE TO BOOST SECURITY & SAFETY AT SYNAGOGUES, MOSQUES, CHURCHES & OTHER NONPROFITS; MONEY WILL PAY FOR SECURITY GUARDS, CAMS, FENCING & MORE; DEADLINE TO APPLY FOR FIRST ROUND IS THIS MONTH

Schumer Says The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) He Helped Write & Fund Provides Fed Dollars To Protect Places Like Synagogues Against Attacks & Threats

Schumer Has Built The Grant Program Up With NYC/LI In Mind & Just Passed Law To Add Even More Dollars In Light Of Increased Antisemitism; First Deadline For Applications Is May 21

Schumer: Amid Rising Threats & Antisemitism In NYC/LI & Nation, We Have Strengthened & Increased This Fed Program

On the heels of bomb threats at NYC synagogues last night and a 1:1 FBI brief this morning, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer announced that $400 million in new fed funds is now available to boost security and safety at nonprofits, community centers, synagogues, mosques, churches and more. Schumer spoke about the threats last night, his conversation with Rabbi Ben Spratt at Rodeph Sholom on the UWS this morning, the rise in antisemitism and detailed how he has boosted the fed program that aims to protect these sacred spaces and at-risk targets.

“Last night’s bomb threats targeting New York City synagogues created immense fear, but sadly, these threats are not a total shock given the rise in antisemitism that we have seen and the overall spike in threats to places of worship,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “Amid these threats, especially those seen across the city and Long Island, we have just strengthened the federal program known as the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) so that we can boost security where it might be lacking. In the recent National Security Supplemental I just passed, I included an additional $400 million for this critical program because amid rising threats we need buttoned up security and amid the cascade of rising antisemitism, we need robust federal funds at the ready.”

Schumer has built up the NSGP program with NYC and Long Island in mind and just passed a law (the national security supplemental) to add even more dollars in light of increased threats so many places of worship are facing. Schumer highlighted that the supplemental funding for the program also included additional operational funding for FEMA to administer the grants to improve assistance available to applicants and the timely awarding and disbursing of grants, particularly helpful to NYC and LI applicants. Schumer also said that the deadline to apply for the first round of these funds is May 21^st as he spoke about the recent threats and the safety at places of worship across NYC and Long Island.

“Protecting our nonprofit community spaces, like our synagogues, mosques, churches and more has unfortunately demanded more help at the federal level as the threats have increased. I have continuously secured increases in funding for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, including $250 million for the program last year and $400 million that is public today. These funds are to help lessen the unease across the city in the places where we worship, pray, and learn,” Senator Schumer said.

“The threat of antisemitism is real and, unfortunately, is on the rise. Just in the last 24 hours we have seen abhorrent acts of antisemitism directed at synagogues in Manhattan. It’s more important than ever that Congress continues to provide ample resources to protect house of worship. I am pleased that Congress recently approved an additional $400 million for Nonprofit Security Grant Program, bringing the total available funding to nearly $700 million. I encourage all eligible for this important program to apply and I’ll continue to work with Senator Schumer to ensure that every house of worship has the resources necessary to protect themselves against these rising threats,” Congressman Nadler said.

“Hate and antisemitism have no place in New York and those responsible for such despicable actions must be held accountable. I am grateful to Majority Leader Schumer and our partners in Washington as we work together to expand state and federal resources to help protect houses of worship,” Governor Hochul said.

Bomb Threats

In 2023, according to the ADL, 1,009 antisemitic bomb threats have been tracked, a massive increase over the 91 bomb threats logged in 2022 and the highest annual number on record.

Bomb threats were recorded in 45 states and the District of Columbia with the highest level of activity (from most to least active) in New York, Florida, California, Arizona and Pennsylvania.

The majority of the threats occurred after October 7, and December was by far the most active month, with more than 800 Jewish institutions receiving emailed bomb threats that month. The messages typically included death threats and a claim that explosives—set to go off with in a few hours—had been placed or hidden on site.

Swatting Incidents

While swatting campaigns are not new, in 2023, according to the ADL, swatting was used increasingly as a tactic to intimidate and harass marginalized communities, including 101 swatting incidents targeting Jewish institutions. Swatting is the deliberate and malicious act of reporting a false crime or emergency in order to provoke an aggressive response from law enforcement to a target’s location.

During the summer months of 2023, the ADL Center on Extremism tracked a small group of online trolls across multiple social media platforms who were swatting a wide range of religious, public and educational institutions. This group’s primary target was the Jewish community, and they were responsible for more than 60 percent of the year’s antisemitic swats.

Across New York City

The New York Post reported that “so far in 2024, 96 anti-Jewish incidents have been reported across the Big Apple, compared to 66 for the same time period last year, according to the police department statistics. The troubling numbers account for antisemitic crimes occurring from Jan. 1 through April 14 — months after Hamas’ surprise attack against Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.”

“There have been far too many heartless and horrific hate crimes targeting places of worship throughout America recently and we must do all we can to help people of all faiths worship in security and safety,” said Senator Schumer. “This increase in funding for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program will help protect all houses of worship and other nonprofits from these horrific acts. I will continue fighting to find ways to stop the spread of hate, and protect all houses of worship.”

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) helps nonprofits, like churches and synagogues, prepare for and mitigate against a potential terrorist attack by providing critical funding to support physical security enhancements to locations that are at high risk of a terrorist attack. This program has improved efforts to keep at-risk nonprofit organizations safe by promoting emergency preparedness coordination and collaboration activities between public and private community representatives, as well as with state and local government agencies. Schumer successfully fought for $400 million for NSGP in the just-passed national security supplemental appropriations bill.

Additionally, Governor Hochul recently secured new funding at the state level to help protect houses of worship, religious schools and other at-risk sites. The New York State FY 2025 Budget includes $35 million for the Securing Communities Against Hate Grant, which provides grants to nonprofit organizations at risk of hate crimes or attacks because of their ideology, beliefs, or missions. Grants can fund interior or exterior security improvements and may also be used to cover costs associated with security training and enhance cybersecurity. Organizations can apply for grants at this website, which also includes more details on the State’s program and its application deadline.

ON EARTH DAY, SCHUMER DELIVERS HISTORIC $250 MILLION FOR NEW YORK TO HELP FAMILIES GET ACCESS TO SOLAR POWER VIA INFLATION REDUCTION ACT – FIGHTING CLIMATE CHANGE, CREATING GOOD-PAYING JOBS, & LOWERING ENERGY COSTS

Funding Is Part of $7 Billion Announced From The Biden Administration In ‘Solar For All’ Grants To Nearly 1 Million Low-Income & Disadvantaged Households Across America

Schumer: Inflation Reduction Act Is Helping Power A Brighter, Cleaner Future For NY

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced a whopping $249,800,000 in federal funding for the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to deploy solar technology for residents that live in disadvantaged communities and low-income households.

The funding comes from $7 billion in grant awards through the Solar for All grant competition to deliver residential solar projects nationwide through Schumer’s Inflation Reduction Act, which created EPA’s $27 billion Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund.

“The Inflation Reduction Act is powering a major $250 million boost in residential solar power for families across the Empire State. This is a win-win-win: helping New York fight climate change, lowering costs, and creating new, good-paying jobs,” said Senator Schumer. “Solar is the most cost-effective form of electricity and one of the easiest ways to help families lower their energy bills every month. I was proud to support NYSERDA’s Solar For All application and this Earth Day, the future of New York’s energy grid is looking sunny, clean, and bright thanks to the historic investments of our Inflation Reduction Act.”

“New York State has positioned itself as a leader in community solar, ensuring more residents than ever before have access to clean, affordable solar energy,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “We thank President Biden, Administrator Regan, and the New York Congressional Delegation for their support and are proud to partner with the Environmental Protection Agency to advance this historic investment in community solar and build a clean and healthy future for New Yorkers.”

“The Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund is a historic investment in solar power nationwide and we want to thank the Biden Administration and the EPA for accelerating this activity in the State and New York City,” said New York City Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “These funds will help homeowners access solar panel financing free from predatory loans, accelerate our clean energy at affordable housing, reduce electricity bill costs for thousands of New Yorkers, create new green jobs, and increase New York City’s portfolio of clean energy.”

Specifically, the funding will support NYSERDA’S capacity to enhance the state’s existing portfolio of highly successful and effective solar deployments, technical assistance, and workforce development programs to benefit millions of residents that live in disadvantaged communities and low-income households. NYSERDA will also implement new programs that target specific barriers to solar deployment for low-income New Yorkers, partnering with HCR, the City of New York, and HPD to do so.

The EPA Solar for All award will fulfill a critical need to build out New York’s proven, robust rooftop and community solar programs serving residential customers. The funding will expand solar access for the New York City low-income market with support to allow for infrastructure upgrades, provide increased benefits to disadvantaged residents, and tackle the barriers of affordable and multi-family housing solar deployment. It will also allow for the continuation of crucial workforce development programs and extend the reach of residential solar to diverse urban, suburban, and rural communities across the state.

The finalization and execution of award agreements is expected by this summer, at which point NYSERDA will work with coalition partners and stakeholders to design and implement Solar for All funded programs over the five-year program period.

Schumer said the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today announced 60 selectees that will receive $7 billion in grant awards through the Solar for All grant competition to deliver residential solar projects to over 900,000 households nationwide through his Inflation Reduction Act. The 60 selections under the $7 billion Solar for All program will provide funds to states, territories, Tribal governments, municipalities, and nonprofits across the country to develop long-lasting solar programs that enable low-income and disadvantaged communities to deploy and benefit from distributed residential solar, lowering energy costs for families, creating good-quality jobs in communities that have been left behind, advancing environmental justice, and tackling climate change. Nationwide, the program will reduce 30 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions cumulatively, from over four gigawatts of solar energy capacity unlocked for low-income communities over five years and generate an estimated 200,000 jobs across the country.

Schumer’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) makes the single largest investment in climate and energy in American history to support a robust domestic clean energy supply chain, accelerate investments in clean energy technologies, and help cut climate and public health pollution, enabling America to tackle the climate crisis and advance environmental justice. The IRA includes $370 billion for clean energy transitions and energy security and also offers tax credits and rebates that can cover up to 100% of the costs of installing a heat pump, which can save families hundreds of dollars per year on energy bills. The IRA also includes $8.8 billion in rebates for home energy efficiency and electrification projects, which is expected to save American households up to $1 billion annually.

Majority Leader Schumer Statement On Historic Investments To Expand Clean Energy And Climate Solutions

New York, N.Y. – Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) today released the following statement on the Environmental Protection Agency’s historic investments to expand clean energy and climate solutions, lower energy costs, and create jobs all across the country, made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act:

“The investments Democrats made are paying off for the American people. By providing $20 billion that will flow to tens of thousands of green and climate friendly projects across the country, today’s historic announcement, made possible by our Inflation Reduction Act, is ushering in the clean energy revolution. I am especially proud that EPA has secured commitments from today’s awardees that over 70 percent of the capital – over $14 billion – will go to low-income and disadvantaged communities. These investments mean cleaner communities, lower energy costs, and jobs, jobs, jobs. I’m proud of this bold investment in communities across America and New York and confident today’s announcement will have positive reverberations for generations to come.

“For decades – low-income and disadvantaged communities have been disproportionally affected by climate change and environmental disasters. Now, we are pairing public dollars with private investment – mobilizing almost $7 of private capital for every $1 of federal funding with these populations in mind – to create good-paying union jobs, rid communities of pollution, and lower the cost of energy. Americans are already feeling the effects of the transformative Inflation Reduction Act, and today’s announcement of the initial funding for two of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund’s programs – the National Clean Investment Fund and Clean Communities Investment Accelerator – will only accelerate our country’s transition to a climate friendly and more equitable future.

“Delivering on environmental justice was one of my north stars while writing the Inflation Reduction Act, and the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund is poised to be one of the most significant vehicles for delivering lasting support to our environmental justice communities. When you invest in renewable energy and clean buildings, you are investing in the technologies of the future and a better world for our children and grandchildren. I am proud to have led this historic program to passage in the Inflation Reduction Act to lower costs for families and creating good paying jobs securing America’s energy independent future.”

Breaking News From Major

MAYOR ADAMS CELEBRATES BACK-TO-BACK RECORD-BREAKING YEARS FOR SUPPORTING MINORITY-AND-WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES

City Awarded $6.4 Billion in Total M/WBE Contracts During Fiscal Year 2024

City Agencies Utilized M/WBEs at Highest Rate Ever Recorded in Fiscal Year 2024

Highest Total Contract Amount Awarded to M/WBEs in Program’s History

Adams Administration Announces M/WBE Advisory Council of Prominent Business, Civic, and

Advocate Leaders to Continue Historic Progress with M/WBEs

Milestones Mark Progress Towards Administration’s

Moonshot Goal of Awarding $25 Billion by Fiscal Year 2026

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, Chief Business Diversity Officer Michael J. Garner, Mayor’s Office of Contract Services (MOCS) Director Lisa Flores, and the New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS) Commissioner Dynishal Gross celebrated a multi-agency effort to deliver back-to-back record-breaking years for spending on, and supporting, minority-and-women owned business enterprises (M/WBE). In Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24), the city awarded $6.4 billion in M/WBE contracts and continued to make meaningful progress towards Mayor Adams’ OneNYC goal of awarding $25 billion in M/WBE city contracts by FY26. Under Local Law 1 (LL1), which governs the city’s M/WBE program, the utilization rate was 31.2 percent — the highest ever in the program’s history. The city also set a record-high in total contract value awarded to M/WBEs under LL1 at $1.59 billion, a 15 percent increase since FY22, the first fiscal year of the Adams administration. Further, in FY24, more M/WBEs than ever were awarded contracts under the city’s M/WBE Small Purchase method, a streamlined process to engage directly with certified M/WBEs, representing an increase of 41 percent in contract value from the previous fiscal year.

Finally, Mayor Adams announced the M/WBE Advisory Council to advance the administration’s historic progress on supporting M/WBEs. Chaired by Chief Business Diversity Officer Michael Garner, the council will be co-chaired by former New York City Comptroller William Thompson and New York Building Congress Chairperson Emeritus Elizabeth Velez. The full list of members can be found online.

“When we came into office two and a half years ago, we had a mission: make this a safer, more affordable city for working-class New Yorkers, and we continue to deliver on that vision by putting money back into communities that have been denied a fair shot for far too long,” said Mayor Adams. “Today, we are proud to announce another record-breaking year for minority-and-women owned business enterprises in New York City with the city awarding $6.4 billion in M/WBE contracts for Fiscal Year 2024, and the creation of the M/WBE Advisory Council to help advance the administration’s historic support of M/WBEs. This council will help us build on the progress we have already made and reach our moonshot goal of awarding $60 billion by Fiscal Year 2030 to ensure M/WBEs finally are able to open their small businesses, support their families, and truly get ahead.”

“Since the beginning of this administration, we have used every tool at our disposal to ensure M/WBEs are getting their fair share of city dollars,” said First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer. “We are proud to announce our Fiscal Year 2024 results: $6.4 billion in total M/WBE contracts and a record-breaking 31.2 percent M/WBE utilization rate, milestone achievements that mark our progress towards awarding $25 billion in contracts to M/WBEs by Fiscal Year 2026. Our new M/WBE Advisory Council, capturing diverse industries and a wealth of experience, will work hand-in-hand with us to ensure our continued progress towards these ambitious goals.”

“Under the effective leadership of Mayor Adams and his ‘Get Stuff Done’ approach to addressing historic disparities in city contracting, the M/WBE program has made great strides in Fiscal Year 2024 despite challenging fiscal times,” said Chief Business Diversity Officer Garner. “Through collective and focused efforts, which include key legislative victories, we’ve been able to put M/WBEs in the critical path of the city’s procurement processes. The outcome is a record fiscal year for M/WBEs on multiple levels, including records set in the M/WBE utilization rate — 31.2 percent — and agency use of their discretionary authority via the M/WBE Small Purchase Method tool to award over $250 million in contracts to M/WBEs. I also recognize that these achievements would not have been possible without the tireless work and committed leadership of our citywide agencies’ procurement staff and our excellent oversight partners, SBS and MOCS. With the announcement of our new M/WBE Advisory Council — a collection of accomplished public and private sector leaders, civil rights organizations, and business industry experts — I have no doubt that we will indeed meet the mayor’s aggressive OneNYC goal of awarding $25 billion in M/WBE contracts by FY26. This achievement will lead to increased employment and homeownership opportunities for many New Yorkers.”

“Today, we are excited to highlight the outcomes of this administration’s investment in our minority and women-owned business community,” said City Chief Procurement Officer and MOCS Director Flores. “Fiscal Year 2024 demonstrated that our steadfast commitment to enhancing New York City’s M/WBE program has resulted in unprecedented success, including an M/WBE utilization rate exceeding 31 percent. This groundbreaking achievement was made possible through tireless advocacy for establishing fair procurement practices by agency leaders and professionals from across our city. Collaboration is essential and it is how progress happens. The M/WBE community has voiced its needs, and today, we are proud to share our plans to continue addressing those needs. The newly formed M/WBE Advisory Council has significant work ahead, and I am honored to partner with the council, Chief Business Diversity Officer Garner, and Small Business Services Commissioner Gross to create the equitable procurement system New York City deserves.”

“SBS is proud of the contributions we’ve made to achieving the milestone of record M/WBE contributions to New York City’s critical work,” said SBS Commissioner Gross. “Through rigorous implementation of M/WBE certification and targeted programs ranging from the Contract Financing Loan Fund to M/WBE business education and technical assistance, SBS unlocks economic opportunity for M/WBEs that help our city ‘Get Stuff Done.’ I thank Mayor Adams, First Deputy Mayor Torres-Springer, and Chief Business Diversity Officer Garner for their devotion to making New York City’s M/WBE program the gold standard in the fight against economic inequity and inequality.”

“We are thrilled that Mayor Adams and our partner agencies are well on their way to achieving the OneNYC goal of awarding $25 billion in M/WBE city contracts by FY26,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) President and CEO Andrew Kimball. “Supporting diverse entrepreneurs is a pillar of NYCEDC’s work to create a more vibrant and equitable economy and we are thrilled to support Mayor Adams’ leadership in uplifting M/WBE’s across the five boroughs.”

Today’s announcement follows last year’s record-breaking numbers for MWBEs. In FY23, the first full fiscal year of the Adams administration, the city set a new record for spending on city-certified M/WBEs by awarding over $1.4 billion in contracts to M/WBEs under the Local Law 1 program, awarded contracts to a record-setting 1,903 unique certified vendor firms, set a record in agency discretionary use of the Small Purchase Method, and tied a then-city record 28 percent M/WBE utilization rate.

The Adams administration has a proven track record on investing in the success and growth of M/WBEs. Mayor Adams appointed Michael Garner as the city’s first-ever chief business diversity officer to address historic disparities in city contracting and provide minority and women entrepreneurs increased opportunities to do business with New York City. Additionally, Mayor Adams signed Executive Order 34, ensuring that each city agency has a senior staff member empowered to prioritize M/WBE programming; standardize data collection from city-affiliated entities that will help facilitate the city’s full, real-time M/WBE performance outcome tracking; create more contracting opportunities for M/WBEs wherever practicable; and prioritize M/WBE vendor firms for the city’s emergency contract procurements.

The Adams administration successfully advocated for the enhancement of a state law, sponsored by New York State Senator James Sanders and New York State Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn, and signed into law by New York Governor Kathy Hochul, to authorize agencies to award up to $1.5 million through the city’s M/WBE Small Purchase method, tripling the previous discretionary limit of $500,000 inherited by the Adams administration. This enhancement has paved the way for M/WBEs to better compete for small purchase contracts, with more than 60 percent of the total contract value awarded to Asian women-owned or Black- and Hispanic-owned businesses, which have historically been the most underutilized categories of M/WBEs.

To provide equitable employment and business opportunities for marginalized communities, Mayor Adams announced the city’s first-ever community hiring effort, which will leverage more than $1.2 billion in city contracts to create job opportunities for underserved New Yorkers. Community hiring allows the city to use its purchasing power, set hiring goals across city procurement contracts, and build on the success of existing project labor agreements and agency-specific hiring programs.

Under Mayor Adams’ leadership, the unemployment rate for Black and Latino New Yorkers has decreased by roughly 20 percent since the start of the administration. Between January 1, 2022, and July 1, 2024, the Black and Latino unemployment rate decreased in the five boroughs.

“Minority and women-owned businesses are vital contributors to our city’s success, and this milestone proves what we all know to be possible — that M/WBEs are capable, resilient, and ready to lead,” said New York State Senator Leroy Comrie. “Awarding over $1.5 billion in contracts to M/WBEs demonstrates that when we prioritize equity, we empower businesses to grow, create jobs, and strengthen our communities. I commend Mayor Adams and his administration for this progress and for laying the groundwork to ensure even greater opportunities for M/WBEs in the future.”

“As New York State Assembly Deputy Majority Whip, I am honored to congratulate Mayor Eric Adams, Chief Business Diversity Officer Michael Garner, MOCS Director Lisa Flores, and SBS Commissioner Dynishal Gross for their exceptional leadership and collaboration. Their multi-agency efforts have achieved unprecedented milestones in FY24, including a record 31.2 percent utilization rate and $1.59 billion in contracts awarded to minority- and women-owned business enterprises,” said New York State Assemblymember Inez E. Dickens. “This historic progress underscores our commitment to empowering M/WBEs and fostering a more inclusive economic landscape in New York City. I look forward to the continued success of the new M/WBE Advisory Council under their guidance.”

“In a city that is 52 percent women and 69 percent people of color, we have an imperative to bring everyone to the table and make sure they receive their fair share of economic opportunity. I was proud to work with Mayor Adams to pass legislation in Albany increasing New York City’s threshold for discretionary M/WBE contracting to $1.5 million,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Today we see the incredible success of this work, having achieved a lofty 31.2 percent M/WBE utilization rate—a 15 percent increase since the mayor took office. To build upon this success, we are launching the M/WBE Advisory Council, which will create an even more favorable climate for these businesses. Together, we will put millions into the pockets of women and diverse communities, uplifting all people in our gorgeous mosaic.”

“True community development revolves around creating upward mobility and pathways to prosperity for communities who have been historically marginalized or directly disinvested in. That’s why centering minority- and women-owned businesses in major economic development projects, such as the $20 billion reimagining of Kennedy Airport, couldn’t be more critical,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “I’m proud of the work we’re doing in Queens to further empower our MWBEs and I’m grateful to the administration for its laser focus on ensuring these businesses have the opportunities they deserve to help build this city. This is how we create good-paying jobs for hard-working New Yorkers right in their own communities.”

“Today, we celebrate a historic milestone for New York City’s minority- and women-owned business enterprises,” said New York City Councilmember Dr. Nantasha Williams. “The record 31.2 percent utilization rate and $1.59 billion in contracts awarded reflect the Adams administration’s commitment to economic equity and creating opportunities for M/WBEs. The launch of the M/WBE Advisory Council is a critical step forward in ensuring these businesses continue to thrive and have the support they need to succeed.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES FIRST-EVER CIVIL SERVICE EXAMS FOR MULTIPLE PUBLIC SAFETY POSITIONS

Applicants Will Be Eligible for Several Career Opportunities with Just One Exam and One Application Fee

First of Three Exams Will Help Fill Nearly 900 Available Positions for School Safety Agents, Traffic Enforcement Agents, Special Officers, and Sanitation Enforcement Agents

DCAS Launches “Choose Your Character, Choose Your Badge” Public Awareness Campaign, Encouraging New Yorkers to Apply for Careers in Public Safety

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) Commissioner Louis A. Molina today announced a first-of-its-kind civil service exam series that will allow candidates to qualify for multiple critical public safety positions with a single exam. The first of the three public safety combination exams will help fill nearly 900 positions available across multiple city agencies, including New York City Police Department (NYPD) school safety agents, NYPD traffic enforcement agents, special officers of the Civilian Complaint Review Board, DCAS, the New York City Administration for Children’s Services, the New York City Department of Finance, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, New York City Department of Sanitation enforcement agents, the New York City Department of Social Services, the New York City Department of Transportation, the New York City Housing Authority, New York City Public Schools, NYC Health + Hospital, the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings, the Bronx County District Attorney, the Kings County District Attorney, and the New York County District Attorney. DCAS has also launched a campaign encouraging New Yorkers to seize this unique opportunity to begin meaningful careers to protect public safety, serve their communities, and build successful futures for themselves and their families with the stability and benefits of government employment.

Following the launch of the public safety combination exam, which is currently open until November 29, 2024, two more exams are planned — the second in spring 2025 with a third to follow. These combination exams will offer opportunities for over 2,000 vacant positions in various additional public safety titles, including New York City Department of Probation officer, New York City Department of Parks and Recreation urban park ranger, New York City Department of Environmental Protection police officer, NYPD police officer, and New York City Department of Correction officer.

“The prerequisites to prosperity are public safety and justice, and public safety cannot exist without dedicated members of our community willing to make a difference,” said Mayor Adams. “We want the best of the best working for New York City — and that includes hundreds of thousands of hard-working residents of the five boroughs. The new public safety combination exams will help recruit the talented and dedicated public servants we need, while ensuring that applying for a meaningful career makes our city more affordable for everyone.”

“This exam is more than just a test; it’s an invitation for New Yorkers to step up and make a real difference in their communities,” said Deputy Mayor Parker. “If you are someone who cares about our city and wants a career with purpose, there is a place on our team for you.”

“Ensuring the safety of all New Yorkers has been the cornerstone of my professional journey; my roots in public safety are the foundation for my nearly 25-year career in city government. Now, it’s your turn to build your career and lay your first cornerstone in public safety, and it’s never been easier to join,” said DCAS Commissioner Molina. “With one civil service test, there are now multiple public safety paths to walk, complete with good pay, a pension, and the knowledge that you’re making a difference for your city. I encourage everyone interested in serving to sign up for the test today!”

The application period for the first exam is open now through November 29, 2024. Interested candidates can apply for the “Public Safety Exam, Level 1” online through the New York City Online Application System or in person at one of DCAS’ Computer-based Testing and Application Centers. There is a one-time application fee of $47.00 for the “Public Safety Exam, Level 1,” making applying for public safety-related jobs more affordable for applicants. Prior to this level 1 combination exam, candidates would have had to pay four separate application fees totaling $209.00. Candidates may be eligible for an application fee waiver if they are veterans, unemployed, or receiving public assistance.

DCAS’ multi-channel public awareness campaign, “Choose Your Character, Choose Your Badge,” aims to inspire New Yorkers to serve their city by exploring the diverse career paths in public safety through this exam. The campaign highlights the opportunities and rewards of these essential roles, encouraging residents to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

Successful candidates hired in these roles will receive comprehensive benefits, which may include union protection, pension plans, and opportunities for future salary increases, supporting long-term career growth and financial stability.

The multiple-choice exam will take place at DCAS’ testing centers across the five boroughs beginning on January 10, 2025. Candidates who pass the exam will be placed on an eligible hiring list ranked by exam score and may be called for interviews to fill one of the nearly 900 public safety roles currently available for school safety agents, traffic enforcement agents, and special officers. The hiring list will remain active for four years to fill new positions as they become available, including for sanitation enforcement agents.

The public safety exam is the latest initiative by Mayor Adams’ administration to enhance efficiency and collaboration between the city’s public safety agencies. As a result of these efforts, major crime in New York City has declined for 10 straight months in 2024, in addition to sustained quarterly and year-to-date reductions.

This announcement also builds on the Adams administration’s success in creating equitable pipelines to enter the city’s workforce, which have historically been a vehicle for economic mobility for millions of New Yorkers. In April, Mayor Adams launched “Run This Town,” a $1 million multi-media advertising campaign to engage diverse New Yorkers and help them apply for thousands of available city government jobs. The “Run This Town” campaign was preceded by the launch of “Jobs NYC,” a multi-pronged citywide effort to reduce barriers to economic opportunities and deliver workforce development services directly to communities across the five boroughs that are experiencing high unemployment. In September 2024, the administration announced that as part of Jobs NYC, 8,500 New Yorkers had been connected to jobs and free training resources at 26 hiring halls over six months in neighborhoods with the highest unemployment rates.

“This initiative not only creates a streamlined path for individuals to enter critical roles within city agencies, but it also offers New Yorkers a unique opportunity to serve their communities, protect the public, and build stable futures for themselves and their families,” said New York State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud. “I am excited that Mayor Eric Adams and Commissioner Louis A. Molina are opening the door for New Yorkers to make a lasting impact on the future of our city.”

“Today’s announcement heralds a pivotal step in New York City’s mission to enhance the hiring framework and broaden entry to vital public service positions,” said New York State Senator Robert Jackson. “This forward-thinking strategy not only eases the route to employment in public safety but also underscores a key progression in attracting and retaining committed personnel ready to protect and serve our communities. I applaud the city’s administration and agencies for their leadership in nurturing a more streamlined and welcoming civil service system that genuinely addresses the needs of all New Yorkers.”

“Our historic first-ever joint public safety civil service exams will allow us to uplift hundreds of our fellow New Yorkers and set them on meaningful career paths, all with unprecedented efficiency,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “For the first time, a single test will open the door to almost 900 fulfilling public safety careers that offer living wages, generous benefits, employment protection, and retirement security. These benefits rightfully go to those who are protecting the safety of our children, our public housing, our parks, our hospitals, and the numerous agencies that make our city tick. All of this comes without having to take multiple tests, saving precious time and money. I look forward to the incredible, diverse pool of talent that will join the ranks of public service.”

“The tireless dedication of our public servants ensures the wonderful and continuous operation of our city and its much-needed services,” said Staten Island District Attorney Michael E. McMahon. “Any chance to add to the many who already serve is welcomed, and any chance to increase those services is wanted. For those who choose to avail themselves of these new exam opportunities, it will be the first step towards giving back to all of our communities and improving society.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES CITY HALL, OTHER CITY BUILDINGS TO BE LIT GREEN FOR YOUTH HOPE MONTH

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced that City Hall and other municipal buildings will be lit green tonight as part of “Wear Green Day” to bring awareness to Youth Homelessness, Outreach, Prevention, Education (HOPE) Month. Youth HOPE Month — which takes place throughout November — calls attention to the experiences of runaway and homeless youth and promotes crucial resources to connect young people to services and support.

“At a time when we still have too many young people living on our streets, Youth HOPE Month not only shines a light on this crucial issue, but helps promote resources to address it,” said Mayor Adams. “From drop-in centers to youth counseling, our agencies and offices work around the clock to meet our young people wherever they are and keep New Yorkers safe. We are proud to participate in Youth HOPE Month and support runaway and homeless youth every day of the year.”

“As we turn City Hall and other municipal buildings green tonight, I know this is only one of the many ways we are shining a light on the issues impacting runaway incidents and homelessness for youth,” said Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Ana J. Almanzar. “Our city agencies, such as the Department of Youth and Community Development, offer critical support for young people by providing food, shelter, life skills, and vocational training. We are committed to continue working and taking action to help reduce the number of young people facing these stability challenges.”

“Providing essential services through our runaway and homeless youth programs is at the core of our mission to eradicate youth homelessness and maintain safe spaces and opportunities for young people to flourish,” said New York City Department of Youth and Community Development Commissioner Keith Howard. “We proudly join Mayor Adams in lighting up City Hall and other city buildings in green to shine a light on preventing youth homelessness and to highlight the important work the administration continues to do throughout the year.”

To call attention to runaway prevention and youth homelessness, City Hall and the following municipal buildings will be lit green starting at sundown tonight:

Bronx Borough Hall: 851 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY 10451
Brooklyn Borough Hall: 209 Joralemon Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201
The David N. Dinkins Manhattan Municipal Building: 1 Centre Street, New York, NY 10007
Queens Borough Hall: 120-55 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11424
Staten Island Borough Hall: 10 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island, NY 10301

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES OPENING OF NEIGHBORHOOD SATELLITE COMMAND IN COLLEGE POINT, QUEENS

109th Neighborhood Satellite Command Will Increase Personnel and Decrease

Response Times Throughout Flushing, College Point, and Whitestone Neighborhoods

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Police Department (NYPD) Interim Commissioner Thomas G. Donlon today announced the opening of the 109th Neighborhood Satellite Command in College Point, Queens. The new neighborhood satellite command effectively divides the 109th Precinct into two response zones, enabling NYPD personnel to respond from a decentralized location — effectively allowing officers to more swiftly respond to emergencies and 911 calls as they help New Yorkers in need in high-demand locales. The satellite command will utilize existing space at the NYPD’s Police Academy and will have an additional 54 police officers and 12 supervisors assigned to it.

“The community spoke, and we listened — and now, we are putting the needs of working people first with the opening of the 109th Neighborhood Satellite Command in College Point,” said Mayor Adams. “The launch of this neighborhood satellite command will help improve emergency response times in a precinct that faces unique challenges due to its geographic size and population density. By adding additional personnel and enhancing operational capabilities, we are creating a safer environment for the residents of College Point, Flushing, and Whitestone, and showing that government can work for working-class New Yorkers. The satellite command not only reflects a commitment to community safety but demonstrates the importance of how the community plays a pivotal role in keeping the public safe.”

“The men and women of the 109th Precinct are excited to broaden their reach in northern Queens in support of the NYPD’s overarching public safety mission,” said NYPD Interim Commissioner Donlon. “The creation of this new neighborhood satellite command will enhance our ability to serve the community and contribute to the ongoing decrease in crime and disorder, which has already seen a nearly 5 percent drop in this command this year. We are grateful to the community leaders who advocated for this solution, as we are confident that it will not only instill a sense of safety in New Yorkers, but also actively promote their well-being.”

During a 2023 meeting with “We Love Whitestone,” a local community organization, residents articulated their frustration of delayed emergency response times. As a result of that meeting, Mayor Adams convened a dedicated 911 advisory response time committee that analyzed data, patterns, and trends related to emergency response. The committee found that the geographic layout of the precinct — which spans a large area — exacerbates response times and that the distance officers travel from the current precinct — located in Flushing — to the more remote College Point and Whitestone neighborhoods, contributes to the delay in response.

Recognizing this critical challenge, the committee proposed the establishment of a neighborhood satellite command at the New York City Police Academy, located within the College Point neighborhood.

“The 109th Police Precinct covers the city’s largest geographical area, and this new satellite base will help ensure faster response times, increased visibility, and safer streets for everyone in our community,” said New York State Senator John Liu.

“I want to thank the NYPD and Mayor Adams for making this investment in our community,” said New York State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky. “Public safety is a critical issue. Over the last two years I have had numerous conversations with the administration about placing more resources in the northern section of the 109th Precinct and I know the residents of Queens are grateful for this commitment. The 109th Precinct is one of the largest in New York City and having this satellite subdivision will allow for police to respond more effectively and expeditiously to help lower the crime rate and keep our community safe.”

“The new 109th Neighborhood Satellite Command in College Point reflects our commitment to efficient, cost-effective public safety service delivery,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “After the community called for more law enforcement in the 109th Precinct, the city listened and is opening a second response zone. The satellite precinct will supercharge NYPD response times in a high-demand area, allowing law enforcement to swiftly come to the aid of New Yorkers in their times of crisis. The satellite precinct is also fiscally responsible, being housed in existing NYPD space. Together, we will provide all the resources necessary to keep New Yorkers safe.”

“Long before I assumed office, the Whitestone and College Point communities have desperately pled for an additional precinct to address increasing public safety concerns,” said New York State Assemblymember Sam Berger. “This satellite is a necessary step in the right direction, and I thank Mayor Adams for hearing the voices of residents. I look forward to working with the city as we advocate for more resources to what is currently the densest precinct in New York City.”

“I celebrate the opening of the 109th Precinct’s Neighborhood Satellite Command,” said New York State Assemblymember Edward Braunstein. “While not the full, new precinct I and my colleagues in government have been advocating for, this is a welcome improvement that will alleviate the strain placed on officers in the 109th Precinct – the largest geographic precinct in the City of New York. With this new satellite command, the communities of Bay Terrace, Whitestone and College Point are expected to see overall faster response times by the NYPD. I thank Mayor Adams for helping grant the resources to establish the satellite command. I welcome the command’s newest police officers and supervisors and thank them for answering the call to serve and protect the communities of northeast Queens.”

“I want to thank our partners in the city and at the NYPD for heeding the call of our community,” said New York State Assemblymember Ron Kim, chair, Assembly Committee on Aging. “Today is a massive win for our district – with a new satellite 109th Precinct office with more officers on the streets, we will be able to cover larger stretches of our district more evenly and assist downtown Flushing with more officers and resources. Our small businesses, young families, and older adults deserve to walk freely and without fear on the streets in Flushing, and as your representative, I am happy we could secure this critical improvement to public safety in my district.”

“The opening of the 109th Precinct Satellite Command will significantly improve public safety across eastern Queens,” said New York State Assemblymember Nily Rozic. “By expanding resources, law enforcement will be able to respond more efficiently and effectively to emergencies that benefit of all of us. I’m grateful for this expansion and those who serve everyday to keep our neighborhoods safe.”

“This satellite precinct has been something community leaders and civic groups have been advocating for a very long time now, and I’m thrilled to be able to deliver for Whitestone and College Point once again,” said New York City Councilmember Vickie Paladino. “This is a HUGE win, and the culmination of a lot of hard work between myself, Mayor Adams, the NYPD, Community Board 7, and local civic groups. I cannot thank the mayor’s office enough for listening and taking our safety needs seriously here. I also want to welcome our new officers to the neighborhood; my door is always open, and I encourage you all to continue to stop by anytime. Public safety and police work are the foundation of our neighborhoods, and this new precinct is a major step in continuing to ensure our district is the most secure in the city.”

“I want to thank Mayor Adams for coming to Whitestone and listening to our presentation,” said Alfredo Centola, president and founding member, “We Love Whitestone” Civic Association. “The mayor promised us that day that he would mandate his staff to work with us and make it happen if deemed necessary. His team kept their word, and today, we celebrate the solution. The 109th Precinct is the largest in both geography and population. We are proud to have been part of the team that spearheaded this spectacular outcome for all our communities.”

“Thank you, Mayor Adams, for hearing us at your town hall meeting and for coming to Whitestone to hear the rest of our concerns,” said Jennifer Shannon, president, A Better College Point Civic Association. “You had your team work with us to flesh out the major areas of concern and we appreciate your support. We are grateful for all the support Inspector Coleman provides to our communities; this is no easy task. We look forward to working with all the officers and the commanding officer now that the new neighborhood satellite command is open. A Better College Point Civic Association was proud to support this challenging endeavor.”

“As the president of the Greater Whitestone Taxpayers Civic Association, I would like to thank Mayor Adams, Council Member Paladino, Community Board 7, and all other concerned civics within the boundaries of 109th Precinct, for the New Satellite Command,” said Kim Cody, president, Greater Whitestone Taxpayers Civic Association.

“The College Point community, along with the adjacent communities, are extremely thankful that our voices have been heard,” said Brock Weiner, president, College Point Civic and Taxpayers Association. “A special thank you to our elected officials along with the NYPD for advocating and understanding the need for such a satellite precinct along with the community based civic associations, such as the College Point Civic and Taxpayers Association, which have been advocating for this for many many years.”

MAYOR ADAMS, INTERIM POLICE COMMISSIONER DONLON ANNOUNCE ‘DRONE AS FIRST RESPONDER’ PROGRAM TO REDUCE RESPONSE TIMES AND KEEP NEW YORKERS SAFE

Department’s First 24/7 Formalized Drone Unit Will Immediately Deploy

Aerial Autonomous Vehicles to Incident Locations and

Provide Critical Information to On-the-Ground Response Teams

NEW YORK — New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Police Department (NYPD) Interim Commissioner Tom Donlon today announced the “Drone as First Responder” (DFR) program, which leverages the latest in aerial autonomous vehicle technology to enhance the NYPD’s emergency-response capabilities as the agency fulfills its mission to keep New Yorkers safe. The DFR program is now operational in five commands in three boroughs, marking a successful expansion of the NYPD’s unmanned aircraft systems initiative.

Located at the 67th, 71st, and 75th police precincts in Brooklyn; the 48th Police Precinct in the Bronx; and the Central Park Precinct in Manhattan, the 10 newest drones — two per command — will be deployed remotely and fly autonomously to the exact longitude and latitude of select priority public safety calls, including searches for missing people, alerts from the ShotSpotter gunshot detection system, incidents of robberies and grand larcenies, and other crimes in progress as needed. The rapid deployment of DFR drones based at station houses supplements the NYPD’s in-person patrol response to 911 calls by supplying high-definition audio and video that is accessible, in real time, on officers and supervisors’ department-issued smartphones.

“New York City is flying into the future as we keep New Yorkers safe,” said Mayor Adams. “While the ‘Drone as First Responder’ program is what precision policing in the 21st century looks like, drone potential is really just taking off. We are leveraging the latest technology to enhance the NYPD’s emergency-response capabilities, remotely sending drones to the exact longitude and latitude of where an emergency call comes and sometimes in as little as a minute. These drones will mean more efficient policing and will help increase the safety of our responding NYPD officers and New Yorkers.”

“When New Yorkers need help, our first responders are always there as quickly as possible to ensure their safety,” said Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Chauncey Parker. “This program adds a powerful tool to our toolkit, enabling police to respond faster and with more accurate information. By using technology to improve efficiency and services, we’re helping those who protect us do their jobs better when every second counts and we’re making our communities even more safe.”

“We are at the forefront of these exciting innovations today, and we must always keep seeking out the benefits of new and improving technology,” said NYPD Interim Commissioner Donlon. “Our DFR program is part of this evolution. It enables our highly trained officers to be even more responsive to the people we serve, and to carry out the NYPD’s critical work in ways that are increasingly effective, efficient, and safe for everyone.”

The DFR initiative is one aspect of the NYPD’s larger drone program that, since late-2018, has deployed drones directly from the hands of on-site operators to perform various tasks: recreating floor plans with 360-degree views and searching collapsed structures, facilitating two-way communication with barricaded individuals, tracking fleeing crime suspects, documenting collision and crime scenes, conducting evidence searches, assisting with warrant executions, helping to effect rescues during storms, and monitoring shark activity off city beaches. NYPD drones were also used to inspect the structural integrity of buildings and bridges following the region’s 4.8-magnitude earthquake earlier this year. Additionally, the technology can potentially be used to drop flotation devices to swimmers in distress and deliver vital first-aid equipment — such as automated external defibrillators, tourniquets, and naloxone (a nasal spray that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose) — to bystanders at emergency scenes.

The key aspects of the NYPD’s DFR program are:

Rapid deployment — Drones are quickly dispatched to incident locations, reaching many areas faster than emergency vehicles on the street and officers on foot.
Enhanced situational awareness — Live video provides early awareness of potential threats to law enforcement personnel. Comprehensive aerial views also allow first responders to assess crime scenes, measure crowd sizes, and strategize how to best manage vehicle and pedestrian traffic situations.
Improved first responder safety — By identifying potential hazards before officers arrive on scenes, safety is exponentially increased for first responders and the public.
New search-and-rescue capabilities — Drones equipped with night-vision and thermal-imaging cameras can greatly assist in locating missing people or criminal suspects, especially across challenging terrain or in low-light conditions.
Evidence collection — High-resolution cameras can capture detailed imagery for the purposes of investigation and documentation.
Hazardous material incidents — Drones can be used to assess potentially dangerous situations without putting human first responders at immediate, undue risk.
Natural disaster response — In the aftermath of hurricanes, floods, or earthquakes, drones can quickly survey large areas to prioritize response efforts.
Transparency — Footage from drones can provide clear, objective evidence of actions taken during incidents and events.
Cost-effectiveness — Drones are significantly less expensive to operate than helicopters, which can be prioritized for other emergency responses.

Every DFR flight is commanded and monitored by an NYPD officer certified as a drone pilot by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). DFR pilots are situated at the Joint Operations Center at police headquarters in lower Manhattan or at one of the department’s off-site Technical Assistance and Response Unit (TARU) stations. Pilots remotely control the drones on a computer screen that displays a live feed, enabling them to make initial scene assessments and quickly broadcast over police radios detailed descriptions of suspects and other timely information considered valuable to central dispatchers and arriving patrol officers. Each DFR mission is additionally monitored in real time by a member of the NYPD’s Legal Bureau.

With the launch of the DFR program, the NYPD now has 100 drones of various sizes and capabilities, and more than 110 FAA-qualified drone operators. NYPD drones have been dispatched on more than 4,000 missions in the past year, including approximately 2,300 priority calls for service. Recorded footage is deleted after 30 days, unless it is to be used to investigate a crime, captures an arrest, or other evidence that must be preserved to assist in a prosecution.

“This is now part of our crime-fighting apparatus, and it is truly a game changer,” said NYPD Deputy Commissioner of Operations Kaz Daughtry. “It is an exciting approach to emergency response that increases our operational efficiency while making everyone much safer. These strategic advantages are the future of policing in New York City and the nation.”

“The ‘Drone as First Responder’ program is an important step in enhancing public safety in our parks, ensuring that all New Yorkers feel secure while enjoying our green spaces,” said New York City Department of Parks and Recreation Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “This innovation not only strengthens our emergency response capabilities, but also enriches the overall park experience, allowing families to focus on what truly matters — creating lasting memories at one of the most famed parks across the world.”

“The launch of the ‘Drone as First Responder’ program marks a groundbreaking advancement in public safety and emergency response,” said New York State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud, chair, Committee on Social Services. “By integrating cutting-edge drone technology with law enforcement, we are strengthening the ability to protect and serve our communities like never before.”

“I welcome the ‘Drone as First Responder’ program as an innovative and vital supplement for NYPD Officers to drastically improve response times during crucial public safety incidents,” said New York State Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn. “As we work to make New Yorkers safer, NYPD’s DFRs are being immediately deployed by officers to help save lives while they rush to the scene; rapidly providing first responders critical information during potential shootings, searches for missing persons, and other incidents where every second matters. I thank Mayor Adams and NYPD Interim Commissioner Donlon, as I work closely with the mayor’s administration to keep improving public safety for all while ensuring our rights remain protected.”

“The DFR program reflects our commitment to efficient, cost-effective service delivery utilizing the latest technology,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Five NYPD commands will now have the power to deploy drones to serve as aerial agents of safety, collecting vital data to solve cases. It is a wise use of taxpayer dollars and city resources, freeing up law enforcement to engage in other public safety work and saving millions in overtime. This builds upon our success using drones to interdict dozens of subway surfers before tragedy strikes. I am proud to support this cutting-edge use of drones, authoring legislation in Albany to ensure we only procure ones without cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Together, we will make our airspace a new front in our work to keep all New Yorkers safe.”

“Ensuring that Central Park remains an accessible and welcoming refuge for every visitor is the Conservancy’s highest priority, and that’s an enormous challenge across 843 acres of diverse woodlands, lawns and other landscapes,” said Betsy Smith, president and chief executive officer, Central Park Conservancy. “We commend the NYPD for investing in new technologies to help improve how they respond to emergencies and the agency’s commitment to keeping the park safe for more than 42 million annual users.”

MAYOR ADAMS CELEBRATES INCLUSIVE DECISION TO WELCOME LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY TO MARCH IN STATEN ISLAND ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

Mayor Adams Supported First-Ever LGBTQ+ Inclusive

St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Staten Island in March 2024

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today celebrated a decision by the Richmond County St. Patrick’s Day Parade committee to allow LGBTQ+ groups to march in the borough’s annual celebration of Irish heritage for the first-time ever in 2025.

“From day one, our administration has been clear that celebrations in our city should be welcoming and inclusive, which is why we brought the community together, along with the Staten Island Business Outreach Center, to create the first-ever — and incredibly successful — fully-inclusive St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Staten Island earlier this year,” said Mayor Adams. “We are thrilled that, this year, Staten Island’s LGBTQ+ community will finally be welcome to march under their own banner in the Richmond County St. Patrick’s Day Parade and we applaud the committee for coming to this decision, which was a long-time coming. Congratulations to the Staten Island community, including the Pride Center of Staten Island and the Lavender and Green Alliance, for their long advocacy for inclusion.”

Earlier this year, Mayor Adams announced the first-ever LGBTQ+ inclusive St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Staten Island — which took place in March 2024 — bringing an end to a decades-long conflict. The longstanding Richmond County Staten Island St. Patrick’s Day Parade is the last in the world to continue to prohibit the LGBTQ+ community from participation. Mayor Adams is the first mayor to participate in the March 2023 “Rainbow Run” in solidarity with the excluded LGBTQ+ community. In November 2022, Mayor Adams also became the first mayor in city history to visit the Pride Center of Staten Island.

Dear Fellow New Yorker,

Tomorrow, November 5th, is Election Day and polls are open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. We encourage everyone to get out and vote! To find your poll site or learn more information, please visit vote.nyc.

This past week, CAU joined Commissioner Ed Mermelstein, of the Mayor’s Office for International Affairs, and the family & friends of the victims of the 2017 terrorist attack on the West Side Highway, to mark the seven-year anniversary of the tragic day. We mourn the lives lost and honor their memories.

Mayor Adams hosted the first-ever Guyanese roundtable meeting this past week. It was an opportunity to meet with community leaders and members to discuss ways we can continue serving our city together. New York City is home to the largest Guyanese population in the country, and it is vital we give these New Yorkers a seat at our table.

This past week, as part of Mayor Adams’ Five-Borough Multifaith Tour, CAU and senior members of the administration met with clergy and prominent leaders from the faith community in Manhattan to discuss and address their concerns in a multi-faith event and interfaith vigil.

Finally, Veterans Day is next Monday, November 11th. This is a day when we pay homage to those who have served in our armed forces in defense of our nation. Make it a point to say “thank you for your service” to both those in uniform, and those who previously served and are our veterans.

For the latest updates, please follow CAU on Twitter and Facebook, and be sure to check out the Mayor’s “Week In Review” video below.

MAYOR ADAMS BANS GRILLING IN PARKS, REMINDS NEW YORKERS TO TAKE ADDITIONAL PRECAUTIONS AND CONSERVE WATER AMIDST ELEVATED FIRE RISK AND HISTORIC DROUGHT

October Was New York City’s Driest Month in Recorded History

City Has Seen 120 Brush Fires in Past 10 Days

Last Week, Mayor Declared Drought Watch — First of Three Levels of Water Conservation Declarations Possible by City

WATCH: Mayor Adams Announces Additional Fire Prevention Measures

NEW YORK – Following a two-alarm forest fire in Prospect Park last night and continued wildfires in New Jersey today, New York City Mayor Eric Adams took additional measures to mitigate increased fire risk amidst a historic streak of dry weather in New York City and in the counties upstate that host New York City’s water reservoirs. Effective today, grilling will be banned in New York City parks while the city remains in drought conditions, while smoking and other sources of open flame remain illegal throughout the parks system.

“As New York City’s historic streak of dry weather creates new safety risks, today, we are taking additional measures to keep New Yorkers safe,” said Mayor Adams. “Effective immediately, we are prohibiting grilling in our parks, and we need all New Yorkers to take commonsense steps to prevent brush fires. Getting through this drought will take all of us working together, and every drop counts, so let’s keep doing our part to save as much water as we can.”

Mayor Adams also issued additional reminders to New Yorkers of key steps to help prevent fires amidst dry conditions:

Fireworks remain illegal across New York City.
Take extra safety precautions when welding or undertaking other hot construction activities, particularly when near dry grass or leaves.
Smoking remains illegal on construction sites across the five boroughs. Additional information on construction site fire safety is available online.
Tapping streetlights for electricity (for things like holiday decorations) remains illegal, as it poses a large fire risk.
As fallen and bundled leaves can be a fire accelerant, New Yorkers should continue to set out yard waste on their recycling day for New York City Department of Sanitation pickup and call 311 to have the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) clear clogged catch basins.
New Yorkers should remove litter and any excessive brush or leaves from sidewalks abutting their residences and businesses.
New Yorkers sensitive to changes in air quality should continue to take appropriate precautions and check AirNow’s website for information on city air quality.
All New Yorkers should subscribe to Notify NYC for up-to-date information.
“As drought conditions persist across our region, we call on all New Yorkers to stay vigilant and take essential precautions to safeguard our communities,” said Chief of Staff and New York City Extreme Weather Coordinator Camille Joseph Varlack. “Our administration is working tirelessly to monitor the evolving situation, issue updated guidance, and implement measures to protect New Yorkers during this prolonged dry period.”

“This fall, New York City is officially a dry town. Last night’s fire in Brooklyn’s backyard, Prospect Park, is a stark reminder of the dangers of this drought,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “We are urging New Yorkers to do their part: do not litter, do not smoke or grill in parks, call 311 if you see open fire hydrants or illegally tapped streetlights, and put dry leaves in your curbside composting pick up. Continue to conserve water as we are still in a drought watch. All of us together can help prevent dangerous fires and save water.”

“We’re asking all New Yorkers to be especially careful with any activities that might lead to a fire,” said Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Chauncey Parker. “A small mistake can cause serious damage. Please be cautious, be vigilant, and help protect our parks and communities.”

“New York City has seen historic numbers of brush fires due to the unusually dry season we are having,” said Fire Department of the City of New York Commissioner Robert Tucker. “We urge all residents to avoid outdoor burning, be mindful of smoking and properly dispose of cigarette butts and matches, and to stay on designated trails in parks. Additional precautions should be taken when conducting activities such as welding near dry grass and weeds. We all need to do our part to conserve water. And, as always, if you see a fire or smoke, report it immediately by calling 911.”

“Our city is currently experiencing a combination of environmental concerns that require everyone’s attention and cooperation,” said New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol. “Wildfire smoke from New Jersey is impacting our air quality. Dry conditions and high winds have elevated the risk of fire within the city, and a drought watch is in effect because of lower-than-normal water reservoir levels. This administration is responding actively and prepared to deploy any resources needed. Report any signs of smoke or fire immediately by dialing 911; conserve water and follow the city’s guidelines; check in on your neighbors, particularly those who may be vulnerable; and, of course, subscribe to Notify NYC for emergency alerts. We all have a part to play in keeping our city safe.”

“This fall’s historic drought and unseasonably warm temperatures are showing us risks of climate change that New Yorkers are not used to seeing, but that we’re well-prepared and well-equipped to confront,” said New York City Chief Climate Officer and DEP Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala. “Whether it’s helping agencies and individuals conserve water, improving our leak detection efforts, or helping to fight upstate wildfires that pose a threat to our water supply, DEP is laser-focused on managing this drought on multiple fronts. All New Yorkers can help; the added pressure on our water supply introduced by wildfires makes it even more critical that every New Yorker takes concrete steps to reduce their water consumption and help stop preventable fires.”

“Protecting New Yorkers — along with our vital natural areas and greenspaces — is of utmost importance, which is why the city is taking steps to reduce the chance of brush fires during this period of severe dry conditions,” said New York City Department of Parks and Recreation Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “During this drought watch, barbecuing in public parks will be prohibited, and we remind everyone that smoking or open flames are never permitted in our parks and gardens. We encourage all New Yorkers to do their part to prevent fires.”

“Construction safety is paramount on all of our construction jobs, and we remain especially vigilant in maintaining fire safety in light of the city’s drought watch,” said New York City Department of Design and Construction Commissioner Thomas Foley. “Our city contractors must use best practices when conducting appropriate ‘hot work,’ and we will continue to closely monitor all related activities.”

“Construction contractors must always implement proper safeguards and housekeeping procedures at all times to help prevent fires from breaking out on their work sites,” said New York City Department of Buildings Commissioner Jimmy Oddo. “Due to the city’s drought watch, and the unseasonably dry weather which has led to multiple brush fires, we are advising construction site managers to be especially vigilant during welding operations and other types of hot work that requires open flames.”

DEP Police and staff from DEP’s Bureau of Water Supply have joined with local and state first responders in fighting wildfires in and near the upstate watershed in recent weeks, pursuant to their responsibility to protect New York City’s sources of water. That includes fighting a 400-acre wildfire burning right now in the New York City watershed in Ulster County, using DEP Police helicopters for rapid and effective response in forested areas, and assisting firefighting efforts in adjacent areas. While these efforts are critical in protecting New York City’s drinking water reservoirs and surrounding lands, they also put further strain on New York City’s water supply, increasing the importance of conservation efforts and efforts to prevent forest fires.

Mayor Adams’ issuance of a drought watch is the first of three levels of water conservation declarations by the city. As conditions continue to evolve, the city may need to declare a drought warning or, subsequently, a drought emergency, which involve escalating requirements to reduce water usage at city agencies and on New Yorkers.

Mayor Adams, today, also reminded all New Yorkers to do their part to conserve water. Some simple tips include:

Report open fire hydrants and street leaks to 311. An open hydrant can release more than 1,000 gallons per minute, which wastes 1.4 million gallons of drinking water in a 24-hour cycle.
Don’t flush the toilet unnecessarily. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), toilets are by far the main source of water use in a home, accounting for nearly 30 percent of an average home’s indoor water consumption. Each flush can use 1.6 gallons, with older models using as much as 6 gallons.
Take shorter showers, saving five to seven gallons a minute. When taking a bath, fill the tub only halfway and save 10 to 15 gallons.
Don’t run the tap while shaving, washing hands, or brushing teeth. Faucets use two to three gallons per minute.
Fix leaks. A leaky faucet that drips at the rate of one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons per year, according to the EPA.
Run the dishwasher and washing machine only when full. Use short cycles if available. Turn off the water while washing dishes.
Install water-saving fixtures, including low-flow toilets and showerheads, as well as faucet aerators.
Sweep driveways and sidewalks clean rather than washing them down with a hose.
For even more tips, visit DEP’s Water Savings Tips website.

ADAMS ADMINISTRATION BREAKS GROUND ON NEW YORK HARBOR SCHOOL EXPANSION ON GOVERNOR’S ISLAND

Major Expansion of Harbor School Will Prepare Young New Yorkers for

Good-Paying Green Jobs in City’s “Harbor of the Future”

Doubles Campus Size and Adds New Facilities to

Enhance Maritime and Environmental Education

Design Plan Includes Additional Classroom Space,

Competition-Sized Pool and Gymnasium, and New Specialty Lab Facilities

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City School Construction Authority (SCA) President and CEO Nina Kubota, New York City Public Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos, and Trust for Governors Island President and CEO Clare Newman today broke ground on a major expansion of the Urban Assembly New York Harbor School on Governors Island. The expansion will allow the school to better prepare young New Yorkers for good-paying green jobs by doubling the school’s campus from two to four buildings and adding new classrooms, a competition-sized pool and gymnasium, and laboratories designed to support the school’s distinctive maritime and environmental curriculum. The announcement builds on Mayor Adams’ efforts to develop a “Harbor of the Future” — a multifaceted initiative announced by Mayor Adams in his State of the City this year to reimagine New York City’s waterfront to fuel 21st-century growth and innovation.

“We’re laser-focused on preparing young New Yorkers for good-paying jobs of the future, and this historic expansion of the Harbor School will allow us to do just that,” said Mayor Adams. “The additional classroom and training space will help us ensure that our kids benefit from the 400,000 green jobs our city will host by 2040. Harbor School graduates will work on the wind turbines that will power 500,000 homes in our city, invent green technologies that we can’t even imagine yet, and more.”

“From the New York Climate Exchange to the expansion of the Harbor School, Governors Island is proof of New York City’s leadership in climate technology and education,” said First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer. “The Harbor School’s new facilities — and Governors Island more broadly — continue to showcase how education, research, and industrial development function together to bring good jobs to the five boroughs for the expanding climate tech industry.”

“We say kids are ‘internet natives’ — smarter and better versed than the rest of us on the way modern technology works,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “Well, they’re going to be ‘climate change natives’ too — better prepared than any generation prior to take on the realities and challenges of climate change with the urgency it requires. That is in part thanks to innovative partnerships like the Harbor School, which will soon accommodate more kids to learn in nature’s classroom. Thanks to the School Construction Authority, the Trust For Governor’s Island, and all our partners for making a high-quality education centering this vital life skill a reality.”

“The expansion of the Urban Assembly New York Harbor School represents a bold step forward in our mission to provide students with unique, hands-on educational experiences that prepare them for successful futures,” said New York City Public Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos. “By doubling the campus size and enhancing the school’s facilities, we are not only enriching the academic journey but also fostering the next generation of environmental leaders and maritime experts right here in New York City.”

“We’re proud to improve and build on the original vision for the Urban Assembly New York Harbor School and look forward to seeing how the expanded campus will empower these exceptional students to learn and expand their environmental stewardship,” said SCA President and CEO Kubota. “Thanks to a strong collaboration between the SCA, New York City Public Schools, and the Trust for Governors Island, this expansion will enable the school to serve even more students while becoming a valuable resource for the broader community.”

“The Harbor School is one of the gems of New York City, providing top notch education and preparing our next generation of New Yorkers in important industries like maritime and the green economy,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Andrew Kimball. “This expanded campus will build on the ongoing success of the Harbor School, and we look forward to these young people joining the workforce that will power our ‘Harbor of the Future’ and careers across the five boroughs.”

“Today marks a truly exciting moment in New York City’s growth as a leader in climate solutions — over the past 14 years, thousands of young New Yorkers have had transformational educational experiences on Governors Island, using the Harbor as a living classroom and receiving high-quality career training in maritime and environmental fields,” said Trust for Governor’s Island President and CEO Clare Newman. “We are proud to collaborate with our partners at the School Construction Authority and New York City Public Schools to develop these new, state-of-the-art facilities, which will serve to expand opportunities for students and empower the environmental leaders of tomorrow.”

The Harbor School provides a college preparatory education built upon New York City’s maritime experience with a focus on environmental stewardship. With its partners — including the Billion Oyster Project — the school develops authentic activities for its students on, around, and related to the water that creates a sense of responsibility to New York Harbor and develop a new generation of maritime advocates, enthusiasts, workers, and decision-makers. The expansion includes the construction of a new, state-of-the-art facility that will feature a pool, gymnasium, and additional lab space dedicated to career-technical training and research. The SCA will also renovate Building 555 — a designated landmark structure built in 1938 — to create 32,000 square feet of additional classroom space. Together, these projects will expand the school’s facilities from two to four buildings and add 445 new seats, supported by funding from the New York City Council and the Manhattan Borough President’s Office.

Today’s announcement builds on the Adams administration’s ongoing efforts to develop New York Harbor as the heart of the city’s green economy. In April 2023, Mayor Adams and the Trust for Governors Island unveiled the New York Climate Exchange, a transformative vision for a first-in-the-nation climate research, education, and jobs hub on Governors Island that will create thousands of permanent jobs and $1 billion in economic impact for the city. A cross-sector consortium led by Stony Brook University, the Exchange will create a state-of-the-art, $700-million, 400,000-square-foot campus dedicated to researching and developing innovative climate solutions that will be scaled across New York City and the world and that will equip New Yorkers to hold the green jobs of the future. Opening in 2028, the New York Climate Exchange will be dedicated to educational programming, research, climate tech incubation, and policy work aimed at advancing climate action in New York City and elsewhere around the world.

Additionally, in February 2024, Mayor Adams announced an up to $100 million investment in the Climate Innovation Hub at Brooklyn Army Terminal, part of the administration’s Green Economy Action Plan designed to help New York City host nearly 400,000 green jobs by 2040. This new space will accelerate commercialization pathways for climate tech startups and other green economy businesses. It will serve 150 startups over 10 years — generating $2.6 billion in economic impact and creating 600 jobs — while providing local workforce training and job placement, particularly for the local Sunset Park community.

Furthermore, in June 2024, Mayor Adams broke ground on what will be the nation’s largest dedicated offshore wind port at the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. The project will accelerate the clean energy transition, make New York City synonymous with offshore wind, advance progress toward the state’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act goal to develop 9,000 megawatts of offshore wind by 2035, and create a new industry with thousands of ‘green-collar’ jobs on site and in the supply chain. 

“The Harbor School is a resource as unique and special as Governors Island itself,” said New York State Senator Andrew Gounardes. “This new expansion gives students even more opportunities to learn, play sports, and study our city’s natural ecosystems in a one-of-kind environment. I’m glad to see opportunities for young people grow on Governors Island, and I’m grateful to Mayor Adams and the Trust for Governors Island for making this possible.”

“We are committed to opening all career paths for our children, and our historic expansion of the New York Harbor School will give us a new arsenal of tools to prepare them for good-paying maritime careers,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “New class space, laboratories, and other facilities will allow students to immerse themselves in this unique and exciting field. The expansion is part of our ‘Harbor of the Future’ plan, which will transform our waterfront into a modern hub of economic growth and innovation, generating $95 billion in economic activity. We are charting a course to sustainable, innovative waterways addressing the needs of New Yorkers.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES LAWSUIT AGAINST MAJOR ONLINE DISTRIBUTOR FOR ILLEGALLY SELLING DISPOSABLE FLAVORED E-CIGARETTES

Lawsuit Accuses Long Island Company of Selling Illegal E-Cigarettes in New York City and Across the Nation

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Acting Corporation Counsel Muriel Goode-Trufant today announced that the City of New York has filed a federal lawsuit today against a major distributor of disposable flavored e-cigarettes, popularly known as “vapes” — the most popular devices for nicotine use among middle and high school youth. The defendant — Price Point Distributors, Inc., based in Farmingdale, Long Island — is accused of distributing e-cigarettes with flavors such as snow cone, strawberry shortcake, and Hawaii Punch to retail stores and directly to consumers in New York City and around the country through online sales, violating nearly every applicable federal, New York state, and New York City law governing the sale of such products.

Today’s lawsuit seeks to block Price Point Distributors, Inc., from further sales of these illegal items, seeks both monetary damages and fines, and marks the latest effort by the Adams administration to curb illegal sales of flavored e-cigarettes, which are appealing and addictive, especially to teens.

“Part of protecting public safety means protecting the health of New Yorkers, including our most vulnerable — our children, who are more susceptible to nicotine addiction, especially when products are flavored to make the taste less harsh,” said Mayor Adams. “Protecting young New Yorkers means stubbing out illegal vape and e-cigarette sales that target them. Today’s lawsuit alleges that Price Point Distributors knew it was breaking laws by selling flavored cigarettes to New Yorkers, and even took measures to conceal these illegal sales from federal, state, and local authorities. This lawsuit, as well as our continued efforts to shut down illegal smoke shops, go hand-in-hand with the work our administration is doing to bring down overall crime in our city.”

“It is illegal to sell flavored e-cigarettes in New York City,” said City Hall Chief Counsel Allison Stoddart. “With this lawsuit, the Adams administration is continuing to hold companies accountable when they put profits over the health of New Yorkers.”

“As alleged in the city’s complaint, defendants are abusing our laws and undermining public health,” said New York City Acting Corporation Counsel Muriel Goode-Trufant. “By selling disposable vapes with kid-friendly flavors — such as cotton candy, raspberry watermelon, and cherry cola — defendants are putting profit before the wellbeing of young people. Flouting the law and fueling an epidemic of nicotine addiction among middle and high school students will not be tolerated by the City of New York.”

“Protecting the health of our young people, and of all New Yorkers, is among our highest priorities,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “Today’s action helps us do that by cracking down on illegal distributors of vaping products — products we know often make their way into the hands of our young people. Whether through regulatory, legal, or other action, we will continue to fight every day for the health and wellbeing of every person that calls New York City home.”

“These illegal sales signify an indifference to New Yorkers’ laws and health, especially the health of teens, who are particularly susceptible to the allure of flavored e-cigarettes,” said New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Interim Commissioner Michelle Morse. “We are committed to prioritizing young people’s health and safety over unfettered corporate interests. Preventing the sale of flavored vapes helps protect youth from nicotine dependence and other adverse health outcomes.”

“Vaping is incredibly dangerous and can lead to a lifetime of nicotine addiction,” said New York City Public Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos. “At New York City Public Schools, we are committed to combating this trend head-on through targeted interventions, initiatives like CATCH My Breath NYC, and a dedicated cohort of Substance Abuse Prevention and Intervention Specialists. I want to thank Mayor Adams for taking action on this critical issue, and I look forward to continuing to partner with our parents and school communities to keep our kids safe, healthy, and free from the dangers of vaping.”

“The Sheriff’s Office is proud to stand with Mayor Adams in the continuous effort to remove these dangerous products from the hands of our youth,” said New York City Sheriff Anthony Miranda. “The dangers that these flavored vape products pose for our youth are serious. The flavors, colors, and common icons are targeting our youth and create an addictive habit that may cause lasting health concerns. Our officers have been removing these illegal products from the shelves since they were first banned in New York City, and we cannot allow manufacturers to continue bringing them back into our communities.”

“Flavored e-cigarettes are not only illegal in New York City, they pose a great danger to our children’s health and wellbeing,” said New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) Commissioner Vilda Vera Mayuga. “DCWP works hard to prevent these devices from being sold at retailers around the city, and we’re grateful to our partners at the Law Department and Mayor Adams for going after the source of these dangerous products.”

In July of 2023, the administration announced that the City of New York had filed a federal lawsuit against several distributors of illegal flavored vapes, including the nation’s largest vape distributor. In April 2024, the administration announced a second lawsuit against 11 local wholesalers, which has now been transferred to federal court. Both actions target distributors for their part in the illegal sale of flavored disposable e-cigarettes, the most popular vaping devices among middle school and high school youth. Both cases are proceeding.

In addition to taking legal action, the Adams administration has been laser focused on enforcement against illegal operators who threaten communities and children. After Mayor Adams successfully advocated for and won legal authority to seal illegal cannabis shops, the administration launched “Operation Padlock to Protect,” which, since launching in May 2024, has already sealed over 1,200 shops and taken over $84 million in illegal products off city streets. Additionally, just last month, Mayor Adams shipped 1,200 pounds of illegal vape products out of New York City to be destroyed in an eco-friendly facility.

Most e-cigarettes provide nicotine levels far exceeding that of conventional cigarettes. Further, federal health authorities, such as the U.S. Surgeon General and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), say fruit, cola, and dessert-flavored e-cigarettes tempt kids to vape high levels of nicotine. Cartoon character packaging on e-cigarettes and devices that look like toys or include mini-games target youth and have contributed to the epidemic of nicotine addiction among young students.

As cited in today’s lawsuit, the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released data from the 2022 National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS) showing that about one in 10 U.S. middle and high school students — or more than 2.5 million youth — had used e-cigarettes in a 30-day sample period. Specifically, 14.1 percent (2.14 million) of high school students and 3.3 percent (380,000) of middle school students reported current e-cigarette use. The 2023 NYTS showed e-cigarettes remained the most commonly used tobacco product among both high school and middle school students for the 10th year in a row. Flavored e-cigarettes continue to be the most popular products according to the survey.

The dangers of e-cigarettes to youth led the FDA, in 2009, to ban flavored vape products. Today’s lawsuit alleges that Price Point Distributors, Inc., violated the Prevent all Cigarettes Trafficking Act, a federal law that bars the sale of any e-cigarettes except in face-to-face transactions with some exceptions. Price Point Distributors, Inc., is also accused of violating New York Public Health Law § 1399-ll (1-a), which makes it illegal for anyone to deliver e-cigarettes to anyone other than a state-licensed vapor business, as well as New York City Administrative Code § 17-715, which makes it illegal to sell, offer for sale, or possess for sale flavored e-cigarettes to New York City residents. Additionally, the company is accused of violating New York City’s public nuisance laws because its alleged sale and offering to sell flavored e-cigarettes injures the health and safety of people within New York City and interferes with the public right to health and safety.

MAYOR ADAMS’ STATEMENT ON LIKELY OVERWHELMING PASSAGE OF PROPOSITIONS 1, 2, 3, 4, AND 5

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams tonight released the following statement after early results showed New York City voters overwhelmingly voted in favor of Propositions 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5:

“Working-class New Yorkers spoke, and the Charter Revision Commission listened. This is a great day for everyone who desires a safer city, cleaner streets, greater fiscal responsibility, transparency in the city’s capital planning process, and, of course, access to abortion care.

“I’m grateful to the commissioners and staff who heard the voices of their fellow New Yorkers, and whose outstanding efforts will now likely be enshrined into our city’s charter through Propositions 2-5. Tonight’s overwhelming success at the polls is just the latest example of how our administration is working every single day to make this a safer, more affordable city for all New Yorkers.”

MAYOR ADAMS SIGNS LEGISLATION TO PROTECT HOTEL WORKERS AND GUESTS, STRENGTHEN TOURISM INDUSTRY

Intro. 0991 Establishes Licensing Requirements and Safety Standards for Hotels in New York City

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today signed legislation to create safer hotels for employees and visitors alike and bolster the city’s tourism industry. Intro. 0991 will set new, stronger standards around safety, staffing, and cleaning in the city’s hotels, as well as licensing requirements to help enforce worker and guest protections. The legislation builds on the tourism industry’s economic resurgence under the Adams administration, with New York City estimated to see 64.5 million visitors in 2024 and the highest tourism levels in the city’s history in 2025.

“Our top priority from day one has been to keep people safe, and that includes protecting workers and tourists at our city’s hotels. That’s why we are expanding protections for the working-class New Yorkers who run our hotels and the guests who use them,” said Mayor Adams. “The Safe Hotels Act ensures that our hotels are safe, healthy, and clean, and that our tourism industry can thrive and create jobs across the city. This is a win for working people, the tourism and hotel industry, and all New Yorkers and guests.”

“Since we came into office, we’ve been laser focused on supporting the recovery of our $74 billion tourism economy,” said First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer. “That includes attracting visitors from around the globe back to the five boroughs and supporting the hotel and hospitality industries that make New York City the best city in the world. The Safe Hotels Act will help us ensure the safety of our 62 million tourists as well as our city hotel workers. In partnership with the hotel industry, we are committed to creating a streamlined application process for qualified hotel license applicants so that the operations of this critical industry are not disrupted.”

“The hotel industry has always been vital to the success of New York City, providing tens of thousands of workers with stable employment and consumers with places to stay while they enjoy our city,” said New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection Commissioner Vilda Vera Mayuga. “We are committed to creating a culture of compliance with our city’s laws and protecting New Yorkers and tourists in the marketplace.”

Intro. 0991 — sponsored by New York City Councilmember Julie Menin — takes several steps to keep New York City hotels safe, healthy, and clean. Hotels must receive a license from the city and ensure that staff — including front desk staff at all hotels and security guards at large hotels — are on-site whenever a guest is staying at the hotel. The legislation also requires hotel operators to train employees on recognizing human trafficking and equip employees with panic buttons. Finally, it requires hotels to clean guest rooms every day unless a visitor declines the service.

The legislation builds on the tourism industry’s powerful resurgence under the Adams administration, with tourism estimated to break record levels by next year. Last year, the tourism industry generated $74 billion in economic impact for New York City, with more than $48 billion coming from direct spending, supporting over 380,000 leisure and hospitality jobs — roughly 9 percent of the city’s workforce — and thousands of small and minority-owned businesses.

The legislation comes as New York City and New Jersey prepare to host the FIFA World Cup 26™ Final and seven other matches throughout the tournament at New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium) in East Rutherford, New Jersey in 2026, with more than 1 million tourists anticipated to come to the region for the tournament. FIFA World Cup 26™ matches played at New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium), including the final, are projected to generate over $2 billion in economic impact alone for the New York City/New Jersey region and are anticipated to support over 14,000 jobs.

Intro. 0991 also builds on recent achievements in reducing crime across New York City. The New York City Police Department recently announced the ninth straight month of declines in overall crime in the five boroughs, with a 3.1 percent drop in major offenses compared to the same month last year.

“The Safe Hotels Act marks a historic step towards enhancing public safety and ensuring worker protection in the city’s hotel and hospitality industry,” said New York City Councilmember Julie Menin. “This landmark legislation requires hotels to obtain a license to operate in New York’s five boroughs, implements crucial safety measures such as panic buttons for housekeepers, human trafficking recognition training, and subcontracting restrictions for critical, public-facing hotel staff. I am profoundly grateful for the overwhelming support the Safe Hotels Act has received from across New York City including the incredible support of the Hotel Trades Council, the five district attorneys, Attorney General Letitia James, a broad labor coalition including HTC, 32BJ, DC37, the Central Labor Council, NYSNA, CWA, PBA as well as a bipartisan supermajority of New York City Councilmembers, human trafficking survivors, and advocacy groups. By signing the Safe Hotels Act into law, New York City joins other major cities in prioritizing the safety and well-being of hotel guests, workers, and surrounding communities.”

“Ensuring the safety and dignity of hotel workers is essential in a city that thrives on hospitality and tourism,” said New York City Councilmember Shaun Abreu. “This hotel safety bill is a vital step toward protecting both patrons and those who keep our hotels running smoothly and safely every day. By prioritizing the well-being of these workers, we send a clear message that New York City values the people behind our industry’s success. I’m proud to stand with HTC and our hotel workers in supporting this essential legislation.”

“With tens of millions of visitors annually, New York City has a duty to keep consumers and workers safe,” said New York City Councilmember Carmen De La Rosa, chair, Committee on Civil Service and Labor. “Our hotels have been grounds for workplace harassment, health and hygiene concerns, and trafficking. The Safe Hotels Act brings a key component of the hospitality industry within a tourist hotspot into a licensing and regulatory framework that our visitors and workers desperately need for additional safety and oversight. Today, New York City takes another step forward in the right direction by signing this bill into law.”

“The Safe Hotels Act will not only protect hotel guests and workers but ensure high quality hotel operations that will cement New York City’s status as a world-class hospitality destination,” said Rich Maroko, president, Hotel and Gaming Trades Council. “We thank Mayor Eric Adams for signing this critical legislation into law and prioritizing the well-being of the regular people who run New York’s tourism economy. We also thank Speaker Adrienne Adams and Councilmember Julie Menin for their incredible leadership in getting this bill passed by such a strong margin in the City Council.”

MAYOR ADAMS ISSUES CITYWIDE DROUGHT WATCH, ORDERS CITY AGENCIES TO DEVELOP WATER CONSERVATION PLANS, URGES NEW YORKERS TO START CONSERVING WATER

October Saw City’s Second Longest Rainless Streak in Recorded History

Drought Watch is First of Three Levels of Water Conservation Declarations Possible by City

WATCH: Mayor Adams Issues Citywide Drought Watch

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala today issued a citywide drought watch amid a historic lack of precipitation, ordering city agencies to update water conservation plans and prepare to implement them, and urging the public to help conserve every drop possible. The announcement comes as New York City concludes a historically dry October, which saw the second-longest dry streak in city records dating back to 1869. Conserving water will slow the depletion rate of the stored water in city reservoirs and can potentially postpone or eliminate the threat of a serious shortage.

“New Yorkers come together in times of crisis, and right now, amidst the dryest spell in recent memory, we need New Yorkers to do just that and conserve as much water as possible,” said Mayor Adams. “We’re going to do our part as a city as well, which is why I’m ordering our city agencies to update their water conservation plans and prepare to implement them imminently. By starting to save water now, we’re doing everything we can to make sure that we can water our parks and fill our pools come summer, and to stave off a more serious drought emergency.”

“We encourage all New Yorkers to take this drought watch seriously and conserve water where you can. While water conservation is always essential, it is particularly crucial during extended dry periods, such as those experienced in New York state throughout this fall,” said Chief of Staff and Extreme Weather Coordinator Camille Joseph Varlack. “Implementing voluntary water conservation measures now can help prevent the need for more stringent restrictions in the future. The administration is ready to implement immediate measures across city agencies to conserve water and stands prepared to take further actions if required.”

“Time and again, New Yorkers’ resiliency shines through the hardest of days. Now, we ask all New Yorkers to step up and do their part to conserve water during this historically dry season, helping us avoid some of the worse impacts of drought,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “When every New Yorker makes even small changes, like turning off the tap when washing hands, brushing teeth, and doing dishes, we save millions of gallons by the minute.” 

“October was the driest October on record, which has resulted in minimal inflow to replenish the reservoirs,” said DEP Commissioner Aggarwala. “Because of this, a drought watch has been declared, and we must now take immediate action. All of us who rely on the city’s water supply, including 8.3 million consumers in the city and another 1.5 million upstate, must make concerted efforts to conserve water.”

“As we work closely with DEP to enhance city agencies’ water shortage response plans and ensure a coordinated effort across all levels of government, I want New Yorkers to know we all have a role to play in conserving our city’s water, one of our most precious resources,” said New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol. “By taking small but meaningful steps, such as running the washer and dishwasher only when full, to taking shorter showers, and educating your fellow New Yorkers about the drought watch, we can make a huge impact.”

A drought watch is the first of three levels of water conservation declarations by the city. As conditions continue to evolve, the city may declare a drought warning or, subsequently, a drought emergency, which involve escalating requirements to reduce water usage at city agencies and on New Yorkers.

Keeping reservoir levels high is even more important given the city’s current repair work on the $2 billion Delaware Aqueduct Repair Project, DEP’s largest-ever infrastructure repair project that will prevent a decades-old, 35-million-gallon-per-day leak under the Hudson River. During the ongoing final phase of construction — which includes connecting a 2.5-mile parallel tunnel to bypass the leak — DEP is drawing on increased amounts of drinking water coming from the Croton Watershed, the city’s oldest upstate water supply. However, the watershed has seen below-average rainfall over the last month — receiving only .81 inches of rain this October, compared to historical averages of 3.81 inches of rain for the month. DEP will continue to analyze current and forecasted reservoir levels for their impacts to the project.

Mayor Adams, today, urged all New Yorkers to do their part to conserve water. Some simple tips include:  

Report open fire hydrants and street leaks to 311. An open hydrant can release more than 1,000 gallons per minute, which wastes 1.4 million gallons of drinking water in a 24-hour cycle. 
Don’t flush the toilet unnecessarily. According to the EPA, toilets are by far the main source of water use in a home, accounting for nearly 30 percent of an average home’s indoor water consumption. Each flush can use 1.6 gallons, with older models using as much as 6 gallons.  
Take shorter showers, saving five to seven gallons a minute. When taking a bath, fill the tub only halfway and save 10 to 15 gallons. 
Don’t run the tap while shaving, washing hands, or brushing teeth. Faucets use two to three gallons per minute.  
Fix leaks. A leaky faucet that drips at the rate of one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons per year, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 
Run the dishwasher and washing machine only when full. Use short cycles if available. Turn off the water while washing dishes. 
Install water-saving fixtures, including low-flow toilets and showerheads, as well as faucet aerators. 
Sweep driveways and sidewalks clean rather than washing them down with a hose. 
For even more ideas, visit DEP’s Water Savings Tips website. 

New York City’s average daily water demand has decreased by approximately 35 percent over the past several decades. During its peak in 1979, the city’s average water usage was 1.5 billion gallons of water a day. Thanks to improved management strategies — systemwide leak detection and repairs, replacing old meters with automated meter readers, and providing an online platform for customers to track and monitor water use and quickly detect leaks in their buildings — the city now uses just 1.1 billion gallons a day on average, and under 1 billion gallons during the winter months.

DEP manages the nation’s largest municipal water supply system, which provides high-quality drinking water each day to nearly 10 million residents, including 8.3 million in New York City. The water is delivered from a watershed that extends more than 125 miles from the city, comprising 19 reservoirs and three controlled lakes. Approximately 7,000 miles of water mains, tunnels, and aqueducts bring water to homes and businesses throughout the five boroughs.

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES CITY HALL, MUNICIPAL BUILDING TO BE LIT TEAL FOR ALZHEIMER’S AWARENESS MONTH

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced that City Hall and The David N. Dinkins Manhattan Municipal Building will both be lit teal tonight as part of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s “Light the World in Teal” initiative. Alzheimer’s Awareness Month is a time to educate Americans about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, including early signs of these diseases; foster understanding and support for those affected, as well as provide caretaking tips for friends and family members; and share information about the importance of research.

“Alzheimer’s disease affects millions of Americans, impacting those diagnosed and their families and friends,” said Mayor Adams. “We must work together to reduce stigma, foster a community of empathy and action, and support patients, caregivers, and their families. We’re raising awareness — and providing assistance through our city agencies to offer information, access to benefits, and emotional support through counseling, support groups, training, and respite care. No one in New York City should face this challenge alone.”

“To all those New Yorkers and Americans living with or touched by Alzheimer’s disease, we recognize and support you,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “We are lighting up City Hall and The David N. Dinkins Manhattan Municipal Building tonight to show our solidarity with all the caregivers, families, medical professionals, and others fighting for loved ones with the disease and working toward a world where disease prevalence and condition severity are less and less.”

Dear Fellow New Yorker,

This past week, Mayor Adams invited the East New York community to a “Talk with Eric” Community Conversation town hall in Brooklyn. We appreciate all the New Yorkers who came out to share their concerns with the Mayor, members of the administration, and city agencies. 

Mayor Adams hosted the first-ever Filipino-American roundtable meeting. It was an opportunity to meet with community leaders and members to discuss ways we can continue serving our City together.

This past week, Mayor Adams also hosted a Diwali community celebration in Gracie Mansion. We are proud that this will be the first year that Diwali will be a school holiday in the NYC schools. To all those who celebrate, we wish you a Happy Diwali!

Mayor Adams and CAU also attended a series of flag-raising ceremonies at Bowling Green this past week, including Kazakhstan and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. We wish them a Happy Independence Day and honor these communities’ contributions to our city.

Wishing New Yorkers a happy and safe Halloween! Check out one of the dozens of Open Streets that are hosting Trick-or-Streets this year!

For the latest updates, please follow CAU on Twitter and Facebook, and be sure to check out the Mayor’s “Week In Review” video below.

All the best,

Fred Kreizman

Commissioner, Community Affairs Unit

Office of the Mayor

MAYOR ADAMS URGES NEW YORKERS TO CALL 911 TO COMBAT SUBWAY SURFING, HIGHLIGHTS LIFE-SAVING TECH

Based on Calls from Concerned Citizens, NYPD Drone Teams Have Saved More Than 100 New Yorkers’ Lives in Last 12 Months

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Police Department (NYPD) Interim Commissioner Thomas G. Donlon, and New York City Public Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos today urged New Yorkers to call 911 if they see attempts at subway surfing and highlighted the administration’s efforts to leverage technology to combat the dangerous trend on the heels of a recent tragic incident that claimed one young New Yorker’s life and injured another. To help save lives, NYPD is utilizing 911 call data to deploy joint drone and field response teams of officers to areas experiencing the highest complaints of subway surfing. Using the most accurate information —calls by concerned citizens — these teams deploy drones to canvass moving trains for subway surfers. Once a subway surfer is found, a field team will hold the train at the next station and remove them. To date, this program has helped save the lives of 114 individuals — ranging from nine years old to 33 years old, and the average age being 14 years old.

“Subway surfing is a deadly trap, one that is endangering more and more young people who see others doing it on social media,” said Mayor Adams. “But those five minutes of online fame could lead to years of regret and pain, or a lifetime of trauma and heartbreak for a family that loses a child. Think about what riding on top of trains really means: the possibility of death and your family, in grief, wondering what more they could have done to protect you. Subway surfing kills — ride inside, stay alive.”

“There is nothing more heartbreaking than the death of a child, especially to such a needless tragedy,” said Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Chauncey Parker. “We are going to continue to do everything in our power to prevent these deaths, but we need help. We need every single parent, caretaker, and role model to impress upon the young people in your life that no thrill and no social media attention is worth dying for. And we especially need young people to speak up to their friends before it’s too late. Together, we can and will put an end to this.”

“Riding outside or on top of a moving train is extremely dangerous, it is illegal, and it has repeatedly proven to be lethal,” said NYPD Interim Commissioner Thomas G. Donlon. “The NYPD will continue to do everything possible to stop this reckless behavior — but it starts with sound decision-making. Our message to New York City’s young people is clear: There is nothing cool about senselessly losing your life. Be smart, be safe, and always ride inside the train.”

“Let us be clear: subway surfing is not a harmless thrill. When children engage in subway surfing, they die. Every loss of a young life to this extremely dangerous activity rips a hole in our city and in our communities, and leaves only grief for the loved ones left behind,” said Public Schools Chancellor Aviles-Ramos. “New York City Public Schools is united with our partners across city and state government in the effort to ensure every child understands the genuine dangers of riding outside of the train. A moment’s adventure is not worth your limbs, your life, or your future. It’s crucial that our children understand that the choice of a moment is a decision that they may never have the opportunity to take back. We believe the voices of our students are our best and most effective communicators, which is why we partnered with the young creative minds of our classrooms in developing the original ‘Subway Surfing Kills: Ride Inside, Stay Alive’ campaign — created by students, for students — which we’ve backed up with trainings alongside the MTA directly in our schools in hot spot areas. New York City Public Schools is committed to getting this simple truth out to our students: subway surfing kills.”

In addition to the increased enforcement, New York City is continuing to highlight the “Subway Surfing Kills – Ride Inside, Stay Alive” campaign launched by Mayor Adams, Governor Hochul, and the Metropolitan Transit Authority in September 2023. This comprehensive, multi-channel public information campaign in partnership with the New York City Public Schools, the NYPD, and the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development was designed for and was created by New York City teenagers — putting the youth voice front and center in a peer-to-peer effort to deter this dangerous behavior among young people. The campaign’s electronic fliers were disseminated at all 1,800 New York City Public Schools locations. Additionally, anti-subway surfing posters and palm cards were distributed to schools in proximity to the J, M, Z, and 7 train lines, which garner the most subway surfing complaints.

“Subway Surfing Kills – Ride Inside, Stay Alive” includes public service announcements in stations recorded by students; digital signage across stations; student-created graphics and animations; posters and banners across stations and distributed in schools; physical palm cards distributed at schools and in stations; school swag including planners, pens and pencils, notepads, and sticky notes; social media posts across platforms, including TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube in the form of posts, reels/shorts, and influencer collaborations; distribution of new student MetroCards accompanied by a “Subway Surfing Kills – Ride Inside, Stay Alive” palm cards; and anti-surfing messages on the back of some MetroCards for sale in subway station MetroCard vending machines. Meta, Google, and TikTok also made space available on their platforms to help amplify the new messaging campaign. Through a partnership with New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s office, Google also made space available for the campaign to play on YouTube.

In February, Mayor Adams also announced a lawsuit against social media companies for the negative impacts they have had on young people. The lawsuit cited subway surfing as one of the examples. The lawsuit — filed in California Superior Court by the City of New York, the DOE (the largest school district in the nation), and NYC Health + Hospitals (the country’s largest public hospital system) — seeks to hold the companies operating TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and YouTube accountable for their role in creating the youth mental health crisis in New York City. The lawsuit alleges that companies intentionally designed their platforms to manipulate and addict children and teens to social media applications.

“Under Mayor Adams, we have engaged in unprecedented work to protect our children from the pitfalls of social media,” said State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “In Albany I helped pass the SAFE for Kids Act to end addictive feeds that lure in children, and we filed a historic lawsuit against social media companies for the health threat they pose. Subway surfing is one of the most tragic and vivid examples of social media’s hazards. This disturbing social media trend has taken the lives of at least six people in 2024 alone. Our new life-saving tech intervention is cracking down on this dangerous activity happening every day. Utilizing 911 data, we are deploying field teams and drones to catch subway surfers before they are killed or critically injured—already saving 106 people from unspeakable tragedy. Together, we will end toxicity on social media and make subway surfing history.”

“Subway surfing is not just a reckless stunt; it poses a real danger to our communities and has tragically resulted in the senseless deaths of New Yorkers,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson. “We must prioritize the safety of all riders and work together to put an end to this dangerous trend. The NYPD’s use of 911 call data to deploy drone and field response teams to areas with high reports of subway surfing is a crucial step in addressing this issue. We need every New Yorker to help us combat this dangerous behavior and ensure our subway system is safe for everyone.”

“Subway surfing, fueled by social media, has led to innumerable tragedies that have stolen far too many of our young people just entering the prime of their lives,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “I commend any effort to protect young people by stopping them from engaging in this extraordinarily dangerous trend, and I look forward to working with our partners in education and law enforcement to combat this crisis.”

“Views on social media are not worth losing your precious life. Six young people have tragically died from subway surfing in 2024, including a 13-year-old girl on the 7 train earlier this week. The city must invest in more after school programs that give young people an engaging safe space and an outlet to grow their interests outside of the classroom,” said New York City Councilmember Julie Won. “In 2023, five young people died from subway surfing, and these deaths continue to increase every year. Last year I wrote a letter to the MTA New York City Transit urging them to take immediate action to prevent subway surfing, including locking train doors. As a mother of two young kids, I urge the state to revisit this request to protect our children and prevent future fatalities from subway surfing.”

MAYOR ADAMS, CHANCELLOR AVILES-RAMOS, UFT PRESIDENT MULGREW ANNOUNCE EXTRA RECESS DAY ON DECEMBER 23

Administration, Parents, School Staff, and Labor Partners Collaborated to Expand 2024 Winter Break While Ensuring Mandated 180 Designated School Days Are Still Met This School Year

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Public Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos, and United Federation of Teachers (UFT) President Michael Mulgrew today announced that December 23, 2024 — previously a school day on the 2024-2025 school year calendar — will now be a non-school day for New York City Public School students. This collaborative decision will give staff, students, and their families an extra day to spend together during the winter recess.

The change comes after discussions between teachers, parents, and labor partners to find a commonsense solution that meets the needs of the community during the hectic holiday season. The state’s 180-day school year requirement will still be met, ensuring students receive the full instructional time they need. This means students will not lose any classroom time despite the extra day off during the winter break. This calendar adjustment demonstrates the city’s commitment to balancing the social-emotional needs of the school community with the academic requirements set forth by New York state.

“Winter break this school year will now start one day early, on December 23rd, so that everyone can enjoy the extra time with family and friends,” said Mayor Adams. “We know that a one-day week would not be well attended — so this just makes good sense. Our children’s education will not be short-changed, so we will still maintain the required 180 days of instruction. I want to thank the teachers, parents, and our labor partners at the UFT who helped us make this good sense decision.”

“Winter is a time for gathering, joy, and reflection,” said Public Schools Chancellor Aviles-Ramos. “By giving our students and staff this extra day off, we’re not just making the season brighter; we’re ensuring that our young learners have the chance to recharge their batteries before the new year. We are excited to give them the gift of time to shine!”

“I am glad we could reach this resolution together. It is the right decision to give our students and educators more time with their families,” said Michael Mulgrew, president, United Federation of Teachers. “It helps everyone come back from winter recess refreshed and ready for the rest of the school year.”

“In New York City, we are committed to a school calendar that reflects the needs of all New Yorkers. I was proud to lead and win the fight for the Diwali school holiday, with the support of Mayor Adams, President Mulgrew, and the New York City Public Schools system,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “On Friday, for the first time over 200,000 Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, and Sikh children will celebrate the day without having to miss school. Today we continue our work to shape a responsive school calendar by designating December 23, which falls on a Monday in 2024, as a recess day. We are effectively giving hundreds of thousands of students and families an extra three-day weekend to prepare for holiday celebrations and travel to visit loved ones. Together, we will ensure that the nation’s largest school system is always centered on the needs of families.”

“The addition of an extra recess day on December 23 will help our city’s students and their families get the holiday season off to a great start,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “I’m pleased that the 180-day requirement will still be met, even with the addition of this extra recess day. I hope all of our city’s public-school students, teachers and staff enjoy the holidays and will be refreshed and ready to return to school on January 2.”

“I am very glad to see that Monday, December 23, has been made a non-school day, allowing families to properly start their winter breaks when school lets out on Friday the 20th,” said New York City Councilmember Justin Brannan. “I am especially proud and not surprised that this commonsense idea came from a Bay Ridge student. We were able to take a constituent’s good point and turn it into a policy decision that will make the holiday season a little bit brighter for families across New York City, all without shortening the 180-day school year. That’s government working the way it’s supposed to.”

“I’m thrilled that students, teachers, and families will have this added day for rest and connection before the holidays,” said New York City Council Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers. “Thank you to the administration, the United Federation of Teachers, and our city’s families for their leadership on this initiative, which shows the power of collaboration to bring meaningful benefits to our school communities. I hope these families and students enjoy a joyous winter recess.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF ANNUAL AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC DESIGN Projects in All Five Boroughs Enhance Public Spaces, Provide Cultural and Recreational Amenities, Improve Resiliency, and Inspire Generations of Artists

Collage of award-winning projects.

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Public Design Commission (PDC) Chair Deborah Marton, and PDC Executive Director Sreoshy Banerjea today announced the winners of the 42nd annual Awards for Excellence in Design. The 11 winning projects were selected by PDC from hundreds of submissions and reviewed in 2023. This year’s award-winning projects showcase the city’s commitment to innovative, sustainable, and community-centered design. Each honoree demonstrates how thoughtful urban planning can significantly enhance daily life for New Yorkers, and the designs go beyond aesthetics by creating resilient infrastructure, fostering community connections, and providing accessible spaces for recreation and learning at locations across the five boroughs.

“When we invest in the beauty and functionality of our public spaces, we create environments where everyone feels welcome and valued, and these projects — from revitalized waterfront spaces to state-of-the-art community facilities — embody our vision for a city where every neighborhood thrives,” said Mayor Adams. “Design excellence can directly translate to improved quality of life for New Yorkers by promoting equity, fostering sustainability, and strengthening cultural connections. I commend all of our awardees for reimagining our public spaces to not only meet the needs of our city today but also anticipate the challenges of the city tomorrow.”

“These award-winning projects showcase how innovative urban planning and thoughtful design enhance vibrancy and livability for all New Yorkers,” said First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer. “I commend our city agencies and design partners for creating spaces that foster community, prioritize sustainability, and reflect the diverse needs of our residents.”

“Every year, PDC’s Excellence in Public Design awards remind us that remarkable public design happens in all five boroughs,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “The surprise and delight of coming upon a brand new beautiful public space and well-designed functional buildings is part of the allure of New York City. Thanks to our colleagues across city government, our library partners, and many others, it is.”

“At PDC, we balance each project’s unique constraints and opportunities while amplifying the voices of New Yorkers who help shape their communities,” said PDC Chair Marton. “Whether it’s a carefully crafted handrail or a monumental skyscraper, good design shapes our shared story — reflecting our history, defining our present, and inspiring our future. Today’s award-winning projects showcase how design excellence emerges from collaboration between talented designers and dedicated public servants who work together to enhance our city’s built environment.”

“These award-winning designs showcase the power of collaboration in transforming our city,” said PDC Executive Director Banerjea. “Through the extraordinary partnership between our agencies, designers, and communities, we’re creating spaces that go beyond aesthetics to foster sustainability, inclusivity, and community vitality. Each project represents our collective commitment to building a more resilient and equitable New York where every resident can thrive.”

“As the caretakers of New York City’s public greenspaces, we at NYC Parks are committed to enhancing our public realm with innovative and resilient design,” said New York City Department of Parks and Recreation (NYC Parks) Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “It is an honor to be recognized in the Public Design Commission’s 42nd Annual Awards for Excellence in Design for our work in all five boroughs. Accessible, engaging, and beautiful public spaces are not a luxury — they are a necessity for the livable and green city that all New Yorkers deserve. I am so grateful to the incredible teams throughout NYC Parks who have earned this recognition, and we look forward to continuing to work with our partners throughout government and in communities citywide to bring even more transformative, forward-looking projects to all five boroughs.”

“DDC partners with some of the world’s top design firms to deliver extraordinary public projects as part of our 20-year commitment to design and construction excellence, and we enliven those projects with great public artwork through DCLA’s ‘Percent for Art’ program,” said New York City Department of Design and Construction (DDC) Commissioner Thomas Foley. “Now, through our design-build program, we’re proving that excellent public design can be delivered better, faster, and more inclusively on behalf of the diverse communities we serve. We’re honored to receive this recognition from the Public Design Commission, and we thank them for their partnership in improving how the city delivers capital projects on behalf of all New Yorkers.”

“Great public art makes for great public spaces, which are an essential part of New York City’s energy and livability,” said New York City Department of Cultural Affairs (DCLA) Commissioner Laurie Cumbo. “I applaud all of the artists, architects, public servants, and designers honored in this year’s Awards for Excellence in Design, especially the Public Art team at the Department of Cultural Affairs. Every day, our public art team collaborates with artists, residents, and city partners to commission amazing, site-specific works of art for civic spaces like the ones being recognized here. Together, we’re working to make a lasting contribution to the public realm of our city.”

“DEP is proud to be recognized for our work in Gowanus, where our robust community engagement has produced designs that deliver on our environmental goals and reflect the values and priorities of local stakeholders,” said New York City Department of Environmental Preservation (DEP) Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala. “I want to thank the Public Design Commission for championing design excellence in infrastructure projects and for recognizing the creativity and collaboration that went into this project. Congratulations to all the award-winning project teams!”

“Greenways are a key asset to driving economic development and creating an opportunity to boost sustainable transportation, while building resilient public amenities for our communities,” said New York City Economic Development (NYCEDC) President and CEO Andrew Kimball. “As NYCEDC continues to expand the citywide greenway network, we are honored to be recognized by Mayor Adams and our colleagues at PDC for our innovative design work on the Harlem River Greenway, and look forward to bringing this project to life.”

“Great public design enriches our communities and helps celebrate the unique character of neighborhoods across the five boroughs,” said New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “I’m proud of DOT’s role with the Shirley Chisholm Monument, which honors the societal and historical impact of Representative Chisholm. The Public Design Commission has set the standard for using thoughtful design to build a better city for all New Yorkers, and I thank them and the hardworking DOT staff for prioritizing equitable design, sustainable practices, and innovative streetscape improvements.”

“We are proud to bring innovative renewable energy designs to buildings all across New York City, and we thank the Public Design Commission for this recognition,” said New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) Commissioner Louis A. Molina. “Our solar panel installations on city facilities have been a major facet of our carbon reduction goals, and we are committed to bringing more citywide projects online that prioritize sustainability to the benefit of all New Yorkers in the months and years ahead.”

“The following award-winning projects showcase the powerful role design plays in creating spaces where New Yorkers feel a sense of pride, joy, and belonging,” said Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu. “Each design embodies our vision for a city where every resident has access to inspiring, accessible, and resilient public spaces. Congratulations to the winners of the Excellence in Public Design awards, we thank you for sharing your creativity and building such beautiful public spaces in the city we call home.”

Since 1983, PDC has recognized well-designed public projects with its Annual Awards for Excellence in Design. The winning projects are selected from the submissions reviewed by the commission the previous year and exemplify how innovative and thoughtful design can enhance the public realm, serve communities, inspire neighborhood pride, and provide durable and resilient space for New Yorkers. The projects being honored demonstrate the transformative impact of planning multipurpose spaces, designing impactful artwork and monuments, and creating innovative landscapes that are accessible, welcoming, and reflective of the needs and aspirations of our diverse communities.

The Design Award-Winning Projects

Project: A Bit of Everything by Misha Kahn

Location: Little Neck, NY

Agency: DCLA, DDC, Queens Library

Project: Aesop Park

Location: Staten Island, NY

Agency: NYC Parks

Project: Borough Park Library

Location: Brooklyn, NY

Agency: DDC, Brooklyn Public Library

Project: Owls Head Combined Sewer Overflow Facility Headhouse and Open Space

Location: Brooklyn, NY

Agency: DEP, NYC Parks

Project: Manhattan Greenway Harlem River

Location: New York, NY

Agency: NYCEDC, NYC Parks

Project: Orchard Beach Maintenance and Operations Facility

Location: Bronx, NY

Agency: DDC, NYC Parks

Project: Orchard Beach Maintenance and Operations Facility

Location: Bronx, NY

Agency: DDC, NYC Parks

Project: Prospect Park Upper and Lower Vale

Location: Brooklyn, NY

Agency: NYC Parks, Prospect Park Alliance

Project: Queensbridge Baby Park

Location: Long Island City, NY

Agency: NYC Parks

Project: Shirley Chisholm Monument by Amanda Williams and Olalekan Jeyifous

Location: Brooklyn, NY

Agency: DCLA, NYC Parks, DOT, Prospect Park Alliance

Project: Walter Gladwin Recreation Center

Location: Bronx, NY

Agency: DDC, NYC Parks

Project: “What Do I See to be Except Myself” by Oasa DuVerney

Location: Brooklyn, NY

Agency: DCLA, DDC, Brooklyn Public Library

Project: Special Recognition Rooftop Photovoltaic Program

Location: Citywide

Agency: DCAS

ADAMS ADMINISTRATION HAS SECURED $2.3 BILLION IN FEDERAL INFRASTRUCTURE GRANTS SINCE JANUARY 2022

New Report Highlights Success of Administration’s Federal Infrastructure Funding Task Force

19 City Agencies Have Won Total of More than 60 Individual Grants

Administration Urges Congress to Reauthorize Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Inflation Reduction Act Programs; Create Reliable Stream of Funding for Resiliency Projects

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today released a new report detailing the unprecedented success of the city’s Federal Infrastructure Funding Task Force in winning grant funding from the Biden-Harris administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act. Under Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi’s leadership, the task force has secured more than $2.3 billion in grants —$1.3 billion of which were through competitive applications — to support upgrades to New York City’s infrastructure and prepare for the impacts of climate change.

“Thanks to our Federal Infrastructure Funding Task Force and the Biden-Harris administration’s game-changing investment in our nation’s infrastructure, New York City is bringing home more federal dollars than ever before,” said Mayor Adams. “This money is helping us build a safer, more affordable, more sustainable city for hard-working New Yorkers, and we’re going to keep going after every available dollar there is.”

“In a city as complex as New York, the scale of infrastructure needs — to keep up with a changing climate and growing population — is vast. Thanks to the Biden-Harris administration’s legacy-defining Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act, and our federal infrastructure task force’s persistence, we are securing an unprecedented amount of federal infrastructure support. We are deeply grateful,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “It’s time to reauthorize the programs to keep the good work going.”

“The U.S. Department of Transportation has been a great partner in championing projects to support safe and sustainable transportation options and reduce New Yorkers’ costly dependency on cars to get around,” said New York City Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “Through federal grant awards, the Biden-Harris administration has supported New York City’s critical infrastructure upgrades, safe street redesigns, and climate action, reconnecting communities long divided by highways, and much more. We thank the Biden-Harris administration, the congressional delegation, and Mayor Adams for their support and partnership.”

“The success of the city’s Federal Infrastructure Task Force is a testament to the persistence, creativity, and drive of people from across the administration who are committed to delivering for everyday New Yorkers. While we celebrate this critical funding, we will also continue to work to ensure that New York City and New York state receive our fair shares of state and federal allocations,” said New York City Chief Climate Officer and New York City Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala. “Newly emerging and urgent needs, such as protecting more than 8 million New Yorkers from increasingly severe coastal and stormwater flooding and replacing private lead water pipes across the five boroughs, will require significant amounts of new funding and continued partnership with our federal and state colleagues.”

“Bolstering our infrastructure is essential to making our city greener, safer, more resilient, and more livable,” said New York City Department of Parks and Recreation Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “Thanks to this substantial federal investment and the efforts of the Adams administration, the city will fill one of the last major gaps in the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway to create a continuous cycling route around the island and also transform an abandoned rail line into a vibrant Queens greenspace. Among other projects, the funding will also create new green jobs, expand the city’s tree canopy, and increase equitable access to the many benefits that urban forests provide. We’re grateful to our partners in federal and city government for recognizing that secure infrastructure is a necessity for keeping New York City strong for generations to come.”

“Thanks to the Biden-Harris administration’s bold vision and leadership, an enormous amount of federal funding has been unlocked for New York City to advance some of our biggest initiatives,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Andrew Kimball. “From generational projects like the transformations of the Brooklyn Marine Terminal and the Hunts Point Produce Market, to bolstering our blue highways and greenways, this administration is taking full advantage of this unprecedented access funding to build a more equitable and vibrant city.”

“As these grants reflect, when we drive climate and environmental justice priorities, we’re rewarded,” said Mayor’s Office of Climate and Environmental Justice Executive Director Elijah Hutchinson. “But while this level of funding is unparalleled, we must continue to prioritize pursuing and securing funding for critical climate infrastructure and environmental justice programs. That will allow us to meet our goals of creating less pollution, advancing better health, and enabling electrification and flooding projects that protect New Yorkers from the intensifying impacts of climate change.” Through this task force, the city and its partners have won a wide range of grants, including but not limited to:

$164 million to help transform the Brooklyn Marine Terminal into a modern, 21st-century maritime port and vibrant mixed-use community hub.
$127 million, across several successful applications, to acquire nearly 400 electric school buses.
$117 million to construct the next phase of the Queensway, a new linear park being built on a vacant corridor of the former Long Island Rail Road Rockaway Beach Branch.
$100 million to construct Cloudburst stormwater management projects in Corona and Kissena — low-lying neighborhoods subject to frequent flooding.
$96 million to construct a segment of the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway along 10th Avenue in Inwood.
$57 million to help 1-4 family homes and affordable housing developments afford solar panels.
$25 million to add electric micromobility charging and storage stations to New York City Housing Authority developments.
The report also highlights key policy changes needed to ensure that New York City can continue to build generational infrastructure projects using federal money. New York City represents 44 percent of New York state’s population and 59 percent of the state’s disadvantaged communities — but receives a disproportionally small percentage of available funding as a result of archaic state rules disqualifying New York City from various funding streams and limiting allocation amounts. Modifying those rules would allow New York City to be considered for additional funding commensurate with its population and status as a major economic engine for the state and country. Additionally, the report recommends reauthorizing key Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act programs and creating new, noncompetitive federal formula funds specifically for resiliency work, so cities have reliable sources of funding for long-term, generational projects to protect against the impacts of climate change.

“New York City securing $2.3 billion to modernize aging infrastructure is exactly why I fought so hard to lead the Bipartisan Infrastructure and Jobs Law and the Inflation Reduction Act to passage,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “Whether it’s funding for water-sewer upgrades, the Brooklyn Marine Terminal, Inwood Greenway, tree planting in Queens, or safe charging at NYCHA, this whopping federal funding has produced investments in New York’s infrastructure not seen in a generation — not to mention jobs, jobs, jobs. The city’s top-notch Federal Infrastructure Funding Task Force has secured competitive grants made possible by these landmark pieces of legislation, and will secure even more. I’m proud to have delivered these billions to advance critical New York City projects and boost upgraded infrastructure, the local economy and climate resiliency.”

“I’m proud to have played a key role in passing the federal legislation that made this critical funding possible and in securing these substantial investments for New York City’s infrastructure,” said U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. “These $2.3 billion in funds represent transformative opportunities to create jobs, enhance resiliency, and ensure our city is prepared for the challenges of tomorrow. Through close collaboration with New York City and stakeholders, we’ve delivered essential resources that will strengthen our communities and make a lasting impact on New Yorkers’ lives.”

“In the last Congress, House Democrats and the Biden-Harris administration passed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, making it a priority to deliver state-of-the-art roads, bridges, tunnels, mass transit and clean air and clean water for every American,” said U.S. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. “As part of that effort, I am proud to have been able to fight to make sure we could fund a $20 million overhaul for Broadway Junction, a central connector between many of the communities I am privileged to represent, as well as another $100 million to mitigate stormwater runoff in neighborhoods that continue to experience devastating flooding. I am grateful to Mayor Adams and Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi for their partnership in fighting for $2.3 billion for New York City to make life better for the people we are privileged to represent, and I look forward to continuing our work so that New York City and the entire United States of America have the robust infrastructure we deserve.”

“As New York’s representative on the Regional Leadership Council – which works to promote and oversee implementation of legislation signed by President Biden – I am proud to see that federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act is continuing to support long-overdue projects across New York City,” said U.S. Representative Grace Meng. “Thanks to this historic legislation, I am particularly happy to see unprecedented infrastructure investments in my own Queens Congressional District. Continuing to maintain and upgrade our local infrastructure is crucial, and I am grateful to see federal funding, which I helped to pass in Congress, supporting these updates throughout our city.”

“As one of the members of Congress who voted for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, I am happy to see that this legislation is delivering critical infrastructure improvement projects including modernized ferries, sewers, roads, bridges, and tunnels throughout our city,” said U.S. Representative Nicole Malliotakis.

“This historic $2.3 billion investment in New York City’s infrastructure and climate preparedness is built off of a strong partnership with our federal partners, our congressional delegation, and the dozens of grant writers and project managers who are advancing shovel ready and shovel worthy projects,” said Brady Hamed, director of strategic initiatives, New York City Federal Infrastructure Funding Task Force. “With projects across all five boroughs ranging from safer streets to electric school buses, and from flood walls to solar panels, all New Yorkers will benefit from the investment of the Biden Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act.”

“The Adams administration, under the leadership of Deputy Mayor Joshi, has demonstrated unprecedented skill in winning federal infrastructure funding for our city,” said Kathryn Wylde, president and CEO, Partnership for New York City. “These dollars are vitally important to leverage our local tax dollars.”

“This administration has been incredibly effective and active in seeking federal infrastructure grants, securing $2.3 billion to meet New York’s pressing infrastructure needs,” said Carlo A. Scissura, Esq., president and CEO, New York Building Congress. “Spearheaded by Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi, this funding drives vital projects — from transforming the Brooklyn Marine Terminal to deploying electric school buses — enhancing the city’s climate resilience and accommodating its growth. To continue this progress, it’s critical to reauthorize the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act programs, shifting towards sustained, non-competitive funding for large cities like ours. The New York Building Congress will continue advocating for further federal investment to support essential improvements like these, and many more to come.”

“Long-lasting improvements to the New York City waterfront, the creation of a new park in Queens, and a vast improvement in our stormwater system will be made possible with new federal funds coming to New York City as a result of the leadership of Mayor Adams and Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi,” said Mitchell L. Moss, professor of urban policy and planning, New York University. “New York City is moving forward with projects that are vital to our future and that will improve the life of all New Yorkers.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES CITYWIDE DAY OF ACTION TO EDUCATE NEW YORKERS ON HISTORIC AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROPOSAL

Over 100 Senior Administration Officials and Government Staffers Visit All Five Boroughs to Educate New Yorkers on City of Yes for Housing Opportunity

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced a citywide day of action to educate everyday New Yorkers on the “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity,” a historic zoning proposal to enable the creation of a “little more housing in every neighborhood.” Over 100 senior administration officials and staffers across city government distributed educational materials, answered questions, and informed New Yorkers on the City of Yes for Opportunity proposal across all five boroughs. As New York City faces a generational housing crisis with just a 1.4 percent rental vacancy rate, the proposal would allow for the creation of up to 108,850 new homes over the next 15 years.

“All throughout the five boroughs, New Yorkers are experiencing firsthand the impact of a generational housing crisis. However, there is relief in sight, thanks to our ‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity’ proposal,” said Mayor Adams. “To spread the word and help educate New Yorkers, our dedicated public servants are hitting the streets to explain how a little more housing in every neighborhood can play a crucial role in making a difference. Together, we can build our way out of the housing crisis — and that starts with saying ‘yes’ to City of Yes.”

“Our dedicated civil servants have fanned out citywide during this day of action to educate New Yorkers about City of Yes and the vital role it will play in creating affordability citywide,” said First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer. “We believe that through this effort, even more New Yorkers will join the four borough presidents, the City Planning Commission, nearly 150 advocacy groups in the ‘Yes to Housing’ coalition, the AARP, more than 20 LGBTQ+ organizations, 18 Community Boards, and 72 percent of New York voters who approve of City of Yes.”

“We are advancing a citywide plan that addresses our housing crisis by making it possible to build a little bit more housing in every neighborhood. That’s why we’re bringing the proposal to all five boroughs through this day of action,” said New York City Department of City Planning (DCP) Director and City Planning Commission (CPC) Chair Dan Garodnick. “If every neighborhood plays its part, we can build a more affordable, inclusive, and equitable city for all. We look forward to meeting and talking with New Yorkers throughout the city about this critically important proposal.”

“Inclusive engagement means ensuring that New Yorkers are equipped with the information they need to understand the policy changes that affect them, especially on the pressing challenges of housing,” said Acting New York City Chief Engagement Officer Crystal Price. “‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity’ is a collaborative effort to remove the barriers that are holding back housing growth. I am excited to support this initiative that brings together city agencies to inform New Yorkers of our plans to tackle the housing crisis and build a New York where everyone can thrive.”

“Our staff at the Public Engagement Unit works every day to help New Yorkers access a wide range of housing-related resources — from programs like Rent Freeze, which allows income-eligible seniors to freeze their rent, to the Tenant Helpline, which supports those with questions or who are in crisis,” said New York City Public Engagement Unit Executive Director Adrienne Lever. “What we hear time and again from the New Yorkers we serve is that today’s solutions aren’t enough to address the challenges caused by historically low vacancy rates. While PEU continues to distribute resources today, the City of Yes rezoning proposal is a major step forward in reshaping New York City’s housing landscape for tomorrow.”

New York City Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) Commissioner Adolfo Carrion Jr. talking to everyday New Yorkers about City of Yes at Grand Concourse in the Bronx

DCP Director Dan Garodnick and PEU volunteers in Harlem, Manhattan educating New Yorkers on City of Yes.

The Adams administration has prioritized educating New Yorkers and answering questions on City of Yes for Housing Opportunity during every step of the approval process. Last month, the CPC approved the proposal following an extensive public review process, including over 175 Community Board meetings, 10 public information sessions, a CPC hearing in which a majority of speakers testified in favor of the proposal, and more. The proposal also received favorable recommendations from Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson, Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards.

Since the start of his administration, Mayor Adams has made record investments towards creating and preserving affordable housing. In July, Mayor Adams announced back-to-back record breaking years in both creating and connecting New Yorkers to affordable housing. In June, the Adams administration delivered an on-time, balanced, and fiscally-responsible $112.4 billion Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Adopted Budget that invests $2 billion in capital funds across FY25 and FY26 to HPD and the New York City Housing Authority’s capital budgets. In total, the Adams administration has committed a record $26 billion in housing capital in the current 10-year plan as the city faces a generational housing crisis. This spring, thanks to Mayor Adams’ vision and leadership, the city celebrated the largest 100 percent affordable housing project in 40 years with the Willets Point Transformation.

Further, the Adams administration is using every tool available to address the city’s housing crisis. Mayor Adams announced multiple new tools, including a $4 million state grant, to help New York City homeowners create accessory dwelling units that will not only help them to afford to remain in the communities they call home, but also to build generational wealth for their families.

City volunteers, including Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi, canvassing for City of Yes at the Staten Island Ferry.

Deputy Mayor of Strategic Initiatives Ana Almanzar handing out literature on City of Yes in Downtown Brooklyn

This year, Mayor Adams and members of the administration successfully advocated for new tools in the 2024 New York state budget that will spur the creation of urgently needed housing. These tools include a new tax incentive for multifamily rental construction, a tax incentive program to encourage office conversions to create more affordable units, lifting the arbitrary “floor-to-area ratio” cap that held back affordable housing production in certain high-demand areas of the city, and the ability to create a pilot program to legalize and make safe basement apartments. 

Under Mayor Adams’ leadership, the city is fulfilling its 2024 State of the City commitment to build more affordable housing, including being ahead of schedule on advancing two dozen affordable housing projects on city-owned land this year through the “24 in ‘24” initiative, reopening the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program waitlist after being closed to general applications for nearly 15 years, and creating the Tenant Protection Cabinet to coordinate across agencies to better serve tenants. The city has also taken several steps to cut red tape and speed up the delivery of much-needed housing, including through the “Green Fast Track for Housing,” a streamlined environmental review process for qualifying small- and medium-sized housing projects; the “Office Conversion Accelerator,” an interagency effort to guide buildings that wish to convert through city bureaucracy; and other initiatives of the Building and Land Use Approval Streamlining Taskforce.

MAYOR ADAMS UNVEILS ‘HOW NYC MOVES,’ NEW, DATA-DRIVEN PLAN TO STREAMLINE DEVELOPING MAJOR TRANSPORTATION-RELATED INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

Developed in Partnership with Industry Leaders, Advocates, Academic Institutions, and Multiple Agencies, Plan Details 21-Actionable Recommendations to Move Faster on Major Transportation Capital Projects

Part of Adams Administration’s Commitment to Better Deliver Government Services with More Efficiency and Speed

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today unveiled, “How NYC Moves,” a new report detailing 21-actionable recommendations to better streamline the delivery and completion of major transportation infrastructure projects. Developed in partnership with industry leaders in tech and transportation, advocates, academic institutions, and across multiple agencies, the plan outlines a roadmap to move faster and more efficiently on executing major, often time-consuming transportation infrastructure projects. Today’s announcement is part of a larger Adams administration commitment to better spend taxpayer dollars by utilizing emerging technology, removing unnecessary red tape, and embracing multi-agency and cross-sector collaboration to deliver high quality government services to all New Yorkers.

“Government has an obligation to its constituents to spend taxpayer dollars with efficiency and effectiveness — that means continuing to deliver a high-quality product that meets the needs of everyday, working-class people,” said Mayor Adams. “From day one, our administration made a commitment to New Yorkers to uphold that obligation by embracing the technology of tomorrow to deliver for our city today. ‘How NYC Moves’ is another example of bringing not just government, but industry leaders, advocates, and directly-impacted people to the table to examine how we can better move our city forward. Together, government can lead the way by removing red tape, embracing innovation, and recommitting itself to the idea that it can work smarter, not harder, on getting stuff done.”

“This roadmap marks a critical step forward in how we plan, build, and improve New York City’s infrastructure,” said First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer. “By harnessing big data and AI, the Adams administration is not just cutting red tape — we’re creating a smarter, faster, and more efficient city for all New Yorkers. I thank the Mayor’s Office of Policy and Planning, the Department of Transportation, and Cornell Tech’s Urban Tech Hub at the Jacobs Institute for their partnership.”

“In our rapidly changing world, streamlining our transportation infrastructure projects is often the key to being able to get them done at all,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “From centralized data sources to leveraging technology — thank you to the New York City Department of Transportation, the New York City Mayor’s Office of Policy and Planning, and Cornell Tech for identifying these recommendations to make building critical infrastructure projects even more efficient.”

“In a city that moves a mile a minute, New Yorkers need transportation infrastructure rolled out just as fast,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “‘How NYC Moves’ will use data-driven decision making, streamline processes with the latest technology, update performance benchmarks, and upskill our workforce to implement the infrastructure New Yorkers need and deserve. I am proud of my work to improve project delivery, passing legislation to authorize progressive design build and end in-person public comment requirements. I am also promoting the emerging technology of 3D-printed transportation infrastructure that will accelerate delivery, as evidenced by Amsterdam completing a 3D-printed bridge in six months. Together, we will deliver state-of-the-art transportation infrastructure in a ‘New York Minute.’”

“The findings put forth in ‘How NYC Moves’ have the potential to reshape how we deliver life-changing improvements to our streets for New Yorkers,” said New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “Transforming our city’s critical infrastructure, and the processes that bring these projects to the finish line, is the key to ensuring New York remains strong, vibrant, and prosperous for generations to come.”

“Across this administration, technology is the engine that enhances government efficiency, improves service delivery, and keeps New Yorkers safe,” said New York City Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser. “Through initiatives such as the nation’s first broad Artificial Intelligence Action Plan and our NYC Smart City Testbed Program, we’re empowering city agencies to leverage emerging technologies responsibly and effectively to better meet the needs of our city’s 8.3 million residents. I thank our partners with the Mayor’s Office of Policy and Planning, the DOT, and Cornell Tech for their contributions to this report and their commitment to building a safer, smarter New York City.”

“Collaboration between government, industry, and academia can uncover the pathway to build better tools for data-driven decisions in our transportation network,” said “Get Stuff Built” Executive Director and “How NYC Moves” co-author Rob Holbrook. “This report provides a vision to deploy innovative emerging technologies that are rigorously grounded in reliable data standards to bring our understanding of how we travel through New York City into the 21st century.”

“The ‘How NYC Moves’ report highlights how the right data and appropriate technology can be harnessed to address public challenges and transform the way we plan, review, and deliver projects in New York City,” said Urban Tech Hub, urban technology fellow and “How NYC Moves” co-author Paul Salama. “The 21 recommendations we’ve outlined were made possible thanks to the insightful contributions from the cross-sector dialogue facilitated by the symposium, matching tech solutions with clearly articulated agency needs.”

“New York City is making historic investments citywide, ensuring neighborhoods are supported by functional public infrastructure that addresses climate risks and enhances New Yorkers’ quality of life. Spending taxpayer dollars efficiently starts with how we plan and initiate each of our capital projects,” said New York City Chief Delivery Officer Alison N. Landry. “The ‘How NYC Moves’ report reflects partnership across city agencies, academia, and industry leaders to remove obstacles and reduce obsolete processes — generating opportunities for smarter implementation. Thank you especially to Rob Holbrook and Paul Salama, and the teams at the Mayor’s Office of Policy and Planning, the Department of Transportation, and Cornell Tech’s Urban Tech Hub at the Jacobs Institute, for facilitating this interdisciplinary dialogue in support of effective project delivery.”

The “How NYC Moves” report results from a two-day symposium hosted by multiple city agencies and Cornell Tech’s Urban Tech Hub at the Jacobs Institute in January 2024, where transportation experts from agencies, industry, and academia gathered to identify technology opportunities for more effective processes. Notable recommendations in the report include utilizing the thousands of existing cameras and sensors owned by city agencies to better capture reliable traffic counts, producing centralized transportation data to create better data-driven decisions, applying artificial intelligence (AI) technology to accelerate analyses and reviews, and automating transportation analysis to reduce redundancy and improve accuracy.

The Adams administration has remained on the frontlines on delivering better-quality government services by using cutting-edge technology. In his first year in office, Mayor Adams announced “Get Stuff Built” to create more housing more quickly by cutting red tape, streamlining processes, and removing bureaucratic obstacles that are slowing housing production and economic recovery. A report produced by the Building and Land Use Approval Streamlining Task Force included 111 concrete actions to create more housing more quickly by cutting red tape, streamlining processes, and removing bureaucratic obstacles that are slowing housing production and economic recovery. The actions will increase the speed and lower the cost of development by accelerating project timelines by 50 percent.

Earlier this year, Mayor Adams and the New York City Department of City Planning celebrated the implementation of “Green Fast Track” — a streamlined environmental review process to accelerate the production of small-and medium-sized housing projects across New York City. The streamlined environmental review process could reduce up to two years of study and $100,000 in costs for qualifying projects. With Chief Technology Officer Fraser, Mayor Adams released the comprehensive “New York City Artificial Intelligence Action Plan,” taking a major step to cement New York City’s position as a leader in the responsible use of innovative AI technology. The broad plan — the first of its kind for a major U.S. city —develops a framework for city agencies to carefully evaluate AI tools and associated risks, help city government employees build AI knowledge and skills, and support the responsible implementation of these technologies to improve quality of life for New Yorkers.

“This report is a clear example of how Cornell Atkinson and The 2030 Project: A Cornell Climate Initiative is working to accelerate climate action in many forms. We’re proud to have supported this convening of key government agencies and technology firms to find opportunities to speed up the decarbonization of our built environment,” said Ben Furnas, executive director, The 2030 Project: A Cornell Climate Initiative.

“New York City’s struggles with traffic congestion are legendary, and now advances in data science are giving us never before seen opportunities to measure, optimize and improve the traffic flow on our city streets,” said Michael Samuelian, director, Cornell Tech’s Urban Tech Hub at the Jacobs Institute. “This report outlines ambitious and realizable ways to help make New York City move better, faster and safer.”

“As a consultant responsible for leading transportation analysis work for applicants, which is often part of the critical path timeline, I’m extremely encouraged by the city’s initiatives to streamline and compress the transportation review process by leveraging existing assets, harnessing technology and big data, and adopting updated methodologies that better align with the city’s goals,” said Jeff Smithline, director of traffic engineering, Sam Schwartz.

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES NEW SUITE OF BENEFITS TO HELP MAKE IT EASIER FOR NEW YORK CITY EMPLOYEES TO BUILD A FAMILY

New York City to Become First Big City in Nation to Provide “Family Building Benefits” of Up to $10,000 for Costs Associated with Adoption, Surrogacy, and Eggs and Sperm Donation for Non-Union Employees.

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom, New York City Office of Labor Relations (OLR) Commissioner Renee Campion, and New York City Councilmember Lynn Schulman today announced a new suite of employee benefits to increase access and support for tens of thousands of city workers in building a family. Now, members of the “Management Benefits Fund” — which provides benefits to approximately 27,000 non-union employees and retirees — will be eligible for “Family Building Benefits” that provide up to $10,000 in reimbursement for costs associated with adoption, surrogacy, and egg or sperm donation. This marks the first time a major U.S. city has provided these benefits to city employees and is similar to benefits increasingly being provided by private-sector companies and universities.

“To be the greatest city in the world, you have to attract and retain the greatest talent in the world, and that means making New York City the best city in the nation to build and raise a family,” said Mayor Adams. “Our administration continues to put working people first, and today’s announcement is another example of how we are making it easier for families to afford to grow and live here. With this new benefit, we are giving up to $10,000 to reimburse costs for non-union employees associated with adoption, surrogacy, and egg or sperm donation — making New York City the first major U.S. city to provide this benefit to their employees and helping employees across city government build the families they want. Our mission is to make New York City a more affordable, and safe city, and this announcement is yet another historic example of how we are delivering on that mission.”

“Today, we are taking a pathbreaking step forward in supporting our city’s workforce and fostering family growth,” said First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer. “With the introduction of ‘Family Building Benefits,’ the Adams administration is proud to lead the nation in helping non-union city employees pay for adoption, surrogacy, and donation processes. This expanded benefit strengthens our commitment to our employees, helps us retain and attract top talent, and reflects our dedication to inclusivity. We are building a city that prioritizes families and setting new standards for support and inclusivity in the workplace.”

“Building a family is one of life’s greatest gifts,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “With today’s announcement, we align New York City with those corporations offering similar benefits and become the first major city to do so. We are making city service more competitive with other fields so we can attract and retain the best workforce possible, all the while extending opportunities for more people to live out their life aspirations away from the office by starting and nurturing a family.”

“There can be a lot of challenges for New Yorkers who are starting or growing their family, but it helps to know that your employer is on your side,” said City Hall Chief Counsel Allison Stoddart. “I am proud to join Mayor Adams in announcing this nation-leading benefit under the city’s Management Benefits Fund and to ensure that New York City continues to lead the nation in how we support our non-union employees.”

“The Management Benefits Fund has always focused on providing valuable benefits to our non-union employees,” said New York City Office of Labor Relations Commissioner Renee Campion. “I am proud we are able to add this benefit, which will provide assistance to employees who may be struggling to build a family, including LGBTQ+ employees.” “Reproductive freedom includes the ability to determine when and whether to have a child,” said New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Acting Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse. “Everyone should have the power and resources to build a family if they choose. New York City is taking this historic step in providing adoption and reproductive resources for thousands of city employees.”

“The NYC Unity Project commends the extraordinary outcomes of this collaborative effort. Today’s announcement marks a significant advancement in supporting our city’s workforce,” said NYC Unity Project Director Ronald Porcelli. “By implementing these benefits, we recognize the diverse paths to family growth and ensure that a segment of city employees have the resources they need to create the families they desire. This policy will support employees across city government, including those in the LGBTQ+ community. Ultimately, this effort not only enhances the lives of New York City’s municipal workers, but also strengthens our entire community.”

“The City of New York’s commitment to offering a new suite of family-building benefits is a heartening step for LGBTQ+ inclusivity, not only supporting gay men who have trouble accessing IVF benefits, but also a segment of employees who face barriers in building their families,” said New York City Mayor’s Office LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group Chair Brady Hamed. “By providing access to fertility services, adoption, and surrogacy for non-union employees, this makes the Mayor’s Office and city government a more inclusive workplace that supports all of our coworkers, including our LGBTQ+ colleagues, in building a thriving family.”

“Building a family is very important to many New Yorkers,” said New York City Councilmember Lynn Schulman, chair, Health Committee. “That is why today marks a transformative moment for our city’s workforce and families. By offering ‘Family Building Benefits’ of up to $10,000 for costs related to adoption, surrogacy, and egg and sperm donation, New York City is leading the way in supporting our employees during one of the most significant journeys of their lives. This initiative not only affirms our commitment to fostering family growth for all, but also positions New York City as a pioneer in equitable and inclusive employee benefits. Every individual and couple, including those who are LGBTQ+, deserve the opportunity and resources to build a family. I am very proud to take this positive life-changing step forward, together with Mayor Adams and his team.”

While New York City’s Health Benefits Program currently provides coverage for fertility treatments, including up to three cycles of in-vitro fertilization, for employees and their covered beneficiaries, services such as surrogacy and sperm/egg donation involving individuals not covered by an employee’s health insurance benefits are not included, and there is no benefit to defray the costs of adopting a child. To ensure that more New York City employees have the resources they need to start a family, the Adams administration established this benefit for both employees and retirees who are members of the Management Benefits Fund.

This benefit will provide up to $10,000 in reimbursement for costs such as adoption agency fees, legal fees associated with adoption or surrogacy, fees to a surrogate, costs of transferring an embryo to a surrogate, costs an employee incurs for medical costs of the surrogacy, and costs of procuring donor sperm or eggs. The policy will help employees across city government, including those that are members of the LGBTQ+ community and their families.

This announcement builds on Mayor Adams’ actions to support working families by expanding paid parental leave and family leave for non-union city employees. Earlier this year, the administration doubled paid parental leave for non-union employees, from six to 12 weeks, and provided up to 12 weeks of paid family leave for those caring for seriously ill family members. The administration’s expansion of paid parental and family leave impacts over 10,000 municipal employees and makes the City of New York more competitive with municipalities and private-sector employers across the country — taking steps to advance Mayor Adams’ ambitious goal of making New York City the most women-forward city in the United States. This adds to the administration’s release of “Women Forward NYC: An Action Plan for Gender Equity,” a more-than-$43 million investment aimed at making New York City a national leader on gender equity, including for transgender and gender expansive New Yorkers.

New York City earned the highest score of 100 points from the 2023 Human Rights Campaign Municipal Equality Index, which measures the extent to which cities across America have embraced LGBTQ+ inclusivity within their laws, policies, and services. New York City has earned this top score for more than a decade, since 2012. Only 25 percent of more than 500 evaluated cities achieve this distinction.

“PFLAG NYC is deeply encouraged to see this pioneering benefit initiative,” said Melissa D’Andrea Sullivan, executive director, PFLAG NYC. “It is a meaningful step toward family equality. Providing resources for adoption, surrogacy, and other options is essential for LGBTQ+ families, who have historically lacked this support. This action by New York City demonstrates a commitment to creating a future where every family is valued and empowered.”

“Mayor Adams’ groundbreaking announcement of Family Building Benefits for city employees is a watershed moment for LGBTQ+ New Yorkers and all families who face barriers in building their families,” said Dr. David Kilmnick, founder and president, LGBT Network. “By providing coverage for adoption, surrogacy, and fertility services, New York City is not just making a policy change – it’s making a powerful statement that all paths to parenthood are valid and worthy of support. As someone who has worked with countless LGBTQ+ individuals and couples who have struggled with the astronomical costs of building their families, I know firsthand how life-changing this $10,000 benefit will be. This progressive policy removes significant financial barriers and sends a clear message that New York City stands with all families, regardless of how they’re created. Once again, New York City is leading the way in LGBTQ+ inclusion and family equality, and we commend Mayor Adams and his administration for this historic initiative.”

“Creating a family is a cherished act among all populations and has been particularly challenging for LGBTQ communities”, said Carmen Neely, founder and president, Harlem Pride. “Insurance coverage for IVF and other procedures has not been comprehensive, and the costs to those in our community, as well as others, have been largely prohibitive. This new suite of benefits helps remedy some of these issues. Providing $10,000 in reimbursement for costs associated with adoption, surrogacy, and egg or sperm donation will certainly aid those who seek to create families in non-traditional ways and will lower barriers to access for many. I applaud New York City’s continued efforts to improve the lives of its citizens.”

“For my wife and me, being able to start our own family was the most beautiful and loving moment of our lives,” said Sarah Kate Ellis, president and CEO, GLAAD. “Everyone should be able to form their own families, on their terms, including LGBTQ people. At a time when anti-LGBTQ rhetoric and legislation is at an all-time high, it is heartening to see the City of New York prioritizing access for adoption, surrogacy, and IVF. Love makes a family, but we need access too.”

“Building a family often looks different for LGBTQ+ people and on average has a higher fiscal cost,” said Amanda Babine, executive director, Equality New York. “This new suite of employee benefits focused on family building will help with some of the barriers we see queer and transgender people encounter when creating family. Currently, there are thousands of LGBTQ+ children in the child welfare system who are open to adoption, this benefit can help potential parents help find them homes. We are thrilled to see that New York City continues to be a leader in progressive policies and resources.”

“I am proud to help launch the ‘Family Building Benefits’ package, standing up to the nationwide assault on family planning choices,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “We will provide city employees with the benefits they need to make the right family planning decisions. Under this program, tens of thousands of members of the Management Benefits Fund will be eligible for up to $10,000 for costs related to adoption, surrogacy, and egg or sperm donation. This historic program makes us the first major city to provide these benefits to a segment of municipal employees, a testament to our dedication to the welfare and dignity of labor.”

“The dream of a starting family can be difficult one to achieve for many, especially for those facing financial concerns,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “The new suite of benefits announced today will ease those financial concerns for many city employees and retirees who want to build a family. The city deserves to be commended for taking the lead on this issue by being the first major U.S. city to offer such benefits.”

“This is a tremendous step forward, and this coverage will be a game-changer for couples like my husband and me as we all consider our own family planning needs,” said New York City Councilmember David Carr. “I want to thank my colleague, Lynn Schulman, for all of her advocacy on this and the mayor for acting to resolve this issue.”

“As the city seeks to diversify and retain talent in its municipal workforce, it must offer competitive benefits that sustain working families and those hoping to establish families,” said New York City Councilmember Carmen De La Rosa, chair, Committee on Civil Service and Labor. “Access to reproductive healthcare is a crucial component in keeping our workers safe and supported as they establish roots in our city.”

MAYOR ADAMS UNVEILS NEW VISION FOR GANSEVOORT SQUARE

City, Gansevoort Meat Market Mutually Agree to End Meat Market’s Lease Early, Opening Up 66,000 Square Feet of Opportunity

New Plan Includes Mixed-Income Housing — Without Public Subsidy — New Public Open Space, and Opportunity for Expansion of Cultural Institutions

Builds on ‘New’ New York Panel Vision for 24/7 Live, Work, Play, and Learn Communities   

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today released a new vision to transform approximately 66,000 square feet in the heart of the Meatpacking District into a 24/7 live, work, play, and learn community and cultural hub for New Yorkers. Known as Gansevoort Square, this vision will build upon the success of the Meatpacking District and reimagine the site as a one-of-a-kind destination for New Yorkers, with mixed-income housing, new public space, and the opportunity to expand the Whitney Museum of American Art and the High Line — some of the city’s most iconic cultural institutions. Unveiled by First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer this morning at the Association for a Better New York, this project will deliver needed affordable housing and open space and cement the Meatpacking District as a global destination and economic engine for the city.

“We’re tackling generational, city-changing projects in all five boroughs, because our administration doesn’t shy away from challenges — we embrace them as opportunities to deliver for New Yorkers,” said Mayor Adams. “Today, we’re thrilled to unveil our next big project — transforming 66,000 square feet at Gansevoort Square into 600 mixed-income housing units, a massive new open pavilion, and the city’s next cultural and artistic hub. The potential we have here is endless, and we’re excited to take the next steps towards turning our vision into a reality. I’m grateful to our partners at the Gansevoort Meat Market, Councilmember Bottcher, the Whitney, the High Line, and more with whom we’re embarking on this next chapter in Gansevoort Square’s history together.”

“The new vision for Gansevoort Square is the type of exciting, forward-looking project our administration is known for and the exact kind of project we want our city to continue to dream up and deliver,” said First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer. “In one area, we are delivering on much-needed affordable housing, creating more public space, and offering opportunities for two cultural icons to expand. This endeavor requires strong partnership amongst many stakeholders and is a multi-agency collaboration that shows government’s capacity to reinvent.”

“Alongside our partners in the cultural and business communities, we are transforming our central business districts into true live, work, and play hubs with desperately-needed homes, vibrant street life, public art, and all of New York’s creativity on full display — making them irresistible to New Yorkers, both new and lifelong,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “Gansevoort Square is our newest exciting step to make permanent Manhattan’s reawakening post-COVID. I can’t wait to see it come to life.”

“This is an incredible opportunity to not only deliver needed housing for New Yorkers, but create a vibrant 24/7 live, work, play, and learn community right in the heart of one of New York’s most iconic neighborhoods,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) President and CEO Andrew Kimball. “Through a mutual decision with the Gansevoort Meat Market to leave the site early, we are able to unlock enormous potential to further expand upon what is becoming a premier cultural destination for New Yorkers and tourists alike.”

“The Meatpacking District is an iconic neighborhood, steeped with the city’s social, economic, and cultural history,” said New York City Executive Director for Housing Leila Bozorg. “Reimagining Gansevoort Square provides an exciting opportunity to build on that history, while introducing critical new housing, public open space, and expansion opportunities for important cultural institutions.”

“Culture is at the heart of thriving, healthy neighborhoods, and the potential for this vision to expand space for the Whitney and the High Line alongside new housing would make for a dynamic new hub in the heart of the Meatpacking District,” said New York City Department of Cultural Affairs Commissioner Laurie Cumbo. “One bold project at a time, our administration is working with partners to build extraordinary amenities that will foster a more affordable and vibrant New York for all of us.”

“The reimagining of Gansevoort Square exemplifies how we can address citywide priorities and integrate green spaces to create a more vibrant and accessible city for all New Yorkers,” said New York City Department of Parks and Recreation Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “By expanding public open space as well as adding affordable units, we ensure that this neighborhood will continue to thrive as a destination for recreation and community connection.”

“The Whitney and the High Line are treasured institutions on the West Side, and I’m excited that they’re considering this opportunity,” said New York City Councilmember Erik Bottcher. “I look forward to working with all stakeholders and the wider community to envision this site for cultural and park uses, along with the potential for much-needed affordable housing.”

“The Gansevoort Market is fortunate to have made our home in the Meat Packing District for nearly a century,” said John Jobbagy, president, Gansevoort Market, Inc. “Many of our members are multigenerational family businesses, employing hundreds of dedicated New Yorkers who serve our city’s restaurant and stores. With technological advances, our industry processing practices have changed, and the market building does not meet up-to-date standards for processing and distribution. For the last decade, we have been exploring options for new facilities and better ways of serving our customers. This opportunity has come along at the right time and meets our needs. Our city thrives on advancement and improvement — and we look forward to the creation of new housing for New Yorkers, new open space, and the potential for much more.”

Gansevoort Square — located on Little West 12th Street between Washington Street and 10th Avenue in Manhattan — will be partially built on the lot of the Gansevoort Market Co-op. In August, the Gansevoort Meat Market — the site’s current tenant — elected to leave the site early in cooperation with NYCEDC and the City of New York. The initial proposal for this new project includes:

Up to 600 mixed-income housing units to further the city’s ambitious housing policy goals and deliver needed affordable units. The city anticipates that this will include as many as 300 affordable units, without the need for any public subsidy.
A new, 11,200-square-foot public open space.
The opportunity for additional development on a 45,000 square foot space, including a potential expansion of the Whitney Museum of American Art — which has a Right of First Offer on the former Meat Market site — with new gallery, education, and learning spaces, as well as potential new High Line facilities.

There will be an upcoming community engagement process that will kick off with conversations with Councilmember Bottcher, Community Board 2, and local partners.

Gansevoort Square stems from the set of recommendations made in the ‘New’ New York panel’s Making New York Work for Everyone action plan, a set of 40 proposals to reimagine New York City’s commercial districts as vibrant 24/7 destinations. The action plan focuses on creating business districts that are vibrant, resilient, healthy, and globally competitive in attracting and retaining businesses.

“The Whitney Museum is engaged in promising talks with the City and Friends of the High Line about a unique opportunity to expand onto a neighboring city-owned site, which would allow us to better serve artists and audiences from New York and around the world,” said Scott Rothkopf, Alice Pratt Brown director, Whitney Museum of American Art. “Our recently launched, sector-leading free admissions programs have welcomed hundreds of thousands of new, younger, and more diverse visitors to our exhibitions and educational programs. They will be at the center of an inspiring vision for our future in the community. We look forward to further discussions.”

“Friends of the High Line has been in early conversations with the city and the Whitney Museum about an exciting opportunity to expand our operations building to meet the growing demands of the park,” said Alan van Capelle, executive director, Friends of the High Line. “Since opening 15 years ago, the High Line’s physical footprint has tripled in length and grown to welcome 7 million annual visitors — more than 20 times initial expectations. Additional space would give us room to dream big, better serve the appetite of New Yorkers for year-round programming, and increase our impact on New York City.”

“As New York City continues to reinvigorate its economy, we must invest in development projects that will help expand our housing stock and generate family-sustaining careers in our local communities,” said Gary LaBarbera, president, Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York. “I applaud Mayor Adams and NYCEDC for prioritizing Gansevoort Square and for advancing this project, which will create needed housing and open space for all New Yorkers. This administration’s continued commitment to driving forward bold initiatives that are built with labor standards and pave accessible pathways to the middle class for hard working New Yorkers is crucial to the future of our city.”

“The Meatpacking District has been defined by the meat processing industry for over a century,” said Jeffrey LeFrancois, executive director, Meatpacking District Management Association. “The transition of the municipal meat market site marks an important milestone in the district’s history, as we make way for an expanded arts and culture footprint on the west side, and more housing, too. The Meatpacking Business Improvement District looks forward to playing an integral role with neighborhood stakeholders and the city as this process moves forward.”

“Friends of the High Line has been in early conversations with the city and the Whitney Museum about an exciting opportunity to expand our operations building to meet the growing demands of the park,” said Alan van Capelle, executive director, Friends of the High Line. “Since opening 15 years ago, the High Line’s physical footprint has tripled in length and grown to welcome seven million annual visitors — more than 20 times initial expectations. Additional space would give us room to dream big, better serve the appetite of New Yorkers for year-round programming and increase our impact on New York City.”

“The Gansevoort Market is fortunate to have made our home in the Meatpacking District for nearly a century,” said John Jobbagy, president, Gansevoort Market, Inc. “Many of our members are multigenerational family businesses, employing hundreds of dedicated New Yorkers who serve our city’s restaurant and stores. With technological advances, our industry processing practices have changed, and the market building does not meet up-to-date standards for processing and distribution. For the last decade, we have been exploring options for new facilities and better ways of serving our customers. This opportunity has come along at the right time and meets our needs. Our city thrives on advancement and improvement —and we look forward to the creation of new housing for New Yorkers, new open space, and the potential for much more.”

“The redevelopment of Gansevoort Square builds on decades of investment in the West Side of Manhattan that has created dynamic new neighborhoods from the Battery through Hudson Yards,” said Kathryn Wylde, president and CEO, Partnership for New York City. “The Adams administration continues to open up new opportunities for high-quality development that will ensure the city’s future vitality.”

“This project is yet another example of the kind of innovative approach we need more of to successfully address the affordable housing crisis,” said Jolie Milstein, president and CEO, New York State Association for Affordable Housing. “I appreciate the Adams administration’s willingness to think outside the box and its commitment to building more housing in desirable neighborhoods to meet the needs of all New Yorkers.”

“Great to see the administration walking the walk with innovative new ways to produce mixed income housing without the use of public subsidy,” said Craig Livingston, president, New York Real Estate Chamber. “It is a perfect equilibrium of creating affordable housing without saddling taxpayers with the cost.”

“This plan reflects the ingenuity and creativity needed to foster 21st century vibrant neighborhoods,” said Basha Gerhards, senior vice president of planning, Real Estate Board of New York. “After a historic tenure as one of the city’s longest operating meat markets, we look forward to seeing Gansevoort Square’s next era.”

“The New York Housing Conference commends the Adams administration for requiring affordable housing in the redevelopment of this mixed-use site,” said Rachel Fee, executive director, New York Housing Conference. “It’s also a win for New York City taxpayers as the affordable housing will be built without public subsidy. Future residents, who would otherwise be priced out, will enjoy the benefits of this neighborhood packed with history and cultural amenities.”

“Creating affordable housing and supporting our treasured cultural institutions are core principles of our work at Community Board 2,” said Susan Kent, chair, Community Board 2. “We are eager to learn more and do our part to achieve the best possible results for our community and our city.”

MAYOR ADAMS WELCOMES HOME NEW YORK CITY FIRST RESPONDERS FROM DEPLOYMENT IN NORTH CAROLINA AND FLORIDA AFTER RESPONDING TO HURRICANES HELENE AND MILTON

Members of New York Task Force 1 Assisted with Search, Rescue, and Evacuations During Hurricanes Helene and Milton

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today welcomed home 192 members of the Urban Search and Rescue New York Task Force 1 (NY-TF1) team and the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) Incident Management Team (IMT) from their deployment to North Carolina and Florida to assist with response and recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. NY-TF1 — whose deployment is activated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) — is managed by New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) and comprises personnel from NYCEM, FDNY, and the New York City Police Department (NYPD). The teams deployed included 151 NY-TF1 members, seven NY-TF1 K9s, and 34 FDNY IMT members.

“I want to welcome back the frontline heroes who helped rescue and evacuate our brothers and sisters in Florida and North Carolina in the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton,” said Mayor Adams. “In times of need, New York City is always there to lend a helping hand, and members of the NYPD, FDNY, and NYCEM helped save the lives of our neighbors down south. They are the selfless heroes who show up when we need them most, and on behalf of 8.3 million New Yorkers, thank you to the men and women of New York Task Force 1 for answering the call.”

“What I love about this city is that New Yorkers never hesitate to step up, and our first responders displayed that spirit when answering the call to help our fellow Americans in their time need,” said Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Chauncey Parker. “Partnership is at the heart of everything we do, and this critical aid illustrated the seamless coordination between our public safety agencies and federal, state, and local partners. I am honored to work with this team and proud of their role in keeping communities here at home and across the country safe.”

“The members of New York Task Force 1 continue to demonstrate an unparalleled commitment to service, courageous spirit, and dedication to their fellow Americans,” said NYCEM Commissioner Zach Iscol. “They spent weeks in communities hundreds of miles away, saving lives and providing their expert skillset to those most in need. We are proud to welcome them home. May we honor their sacrifices and strive to embody their heroism in our work serving New York City.”  

“We are thrilled to have all the members of New York Task Force 1 safely return home, and we are forever grateful for their life-saving efforts while deployed outside of New York City,” said NYPD Interim Commissioner Thomas G. Donlon. “As we welcome them back, we extend our heartfelt appreciation for their capabilities and selfless dedication to public service, regardless of location or circumstance.”

“The work of New York Task Force 1 is incredible. The members of this team are national heroes, and we thank them for their tireless dedication to service of our country,” said FDNY Fire Commissioner Robert S. Tucker. “The partnership between the NYPD and the FDNY has never been this strong and we know the work being done together on the ground makes New York City safer. The FDNY is honored to send our highly trained members wherever needed, and aid in whatever rescue mission is ahead of them, no matter the challenge. Congratulations on a job well done.”

During their deployment, NY-TF1 successfully rescued three individuals and four pets, safely evacuated 32 people and one pet, and provided assistance to 31 additional individuals. Their commitment to ensuring the well-being of those in crisis was further exemplified through shelter-in-place welfare checks conducted for 236 individuals who were unable to evacuate. The team also searched 1,459 structures and assessed damage to 4,810 structures, identifying potential risks and prioritizing safety measures.

The team deployed with a number of capabilities, including in-water rescue, technical search, canine search, a medical team, and logistics coordination from a base of operations. The deployment involved wide area and canine searches, as well as the collection of geospatial data documenting damage and those sheltering in place from the devastating impacts from the hurricanes.

NY-TF1 specializes in urban search and rescue, disaster recovery, and emergency triage and medicine. With a history of effective deployments that include Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria in 2017; Hurricane Florence in 2018; Hurricane Ian in 2022; and Hurricane Ida in 2023, NY-TF1 stands as a testament to New York City’s commitment to helping American communities across the nation in times of crisis. There are 28 FEMA Urban Search and Rescue teams strategically located throughout the United States that can be deployed within hours of activation.

IMTs are federally trained teams of first responders responsible for overseeing large-scale long-duration incidents and emergencies, including forest fires, earthquakes, hurricanes, and other natural disasters. Following September 11, 2001, an IMT from the U.S. Forestry Service greatly assisted FDNY with the rescue and recovery effort at the World Trade Center site. From this experience, the FDNY IMT was formed to manage incidents here in New York City and across the country. The FDNY IMT has responded to multiple national emergencies including forest fires; to New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina; in Broome County, NY following Hurricane Irene; and here in New York City after Hurricane Sandy. The FDNY IMT consists of more than 180 FDNY members from all ranks in the department with specialized training in incident command, rescue operations, logistics, and planning.

“I’m proud to welcome back 192 members of the Urban Search and Rescue New York Task Force 1 team along with the FDNY Incident Management Team after their deployment to support recovery efforts in North Carolina and Florida,” said U.S. Representative Nicole Malliotakis. “As a Staten Islander, our community understands the devastation caused by severe flooding, especially as the anniversary of Superstorm Sandy approaches, and we appreciate the selfless actions of New York bravest to help our fellow Americans in their time of need.”

“When Hurricanes Helene and Milton devastated our friends to the south, we sprung into action to aid our fellow Americans in their time of crisis,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “After an exceptional tour of duty, today we give a hero’s welcome to our 192 brave members of the Urban Search and Rescue New York Task Force 1 and the FDNY Incident Management Team. Our entire nation is grateful for their outstanding contributions in the recovery efforts. I am a steadfast supporter of first responders and was proud to pass historic legislation this year providing employment protections to National Guard members responding to disasters. Together, we will provide our first responders everything they need to heroically serve our nation when disaster strikes.”

“Here in Queens, we remember the generosity shown to us by people from across the country who had our back in the wake of Superstorm Sandy. So, it’s only right that New York City have the back of our neighbors to the south in their time of need following hurricanes Helene and Milton,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “To the 192 New York City first responders who have spent the last few weeks helping North Carolina and Florida families recover from these devastating storms, you represent the very best of our city. Thank you for your service and your sacrifice.”

“Our first responders dedicate their lives to helping those in need, whether it’s here in New York or hundreds of miles away,” said New York City Councilmember Joann Ariola. “These men and women are true heroes, and I could not be more proud of each and everyone one of them”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES FINALIZED E-BIKE TRADE-IN PROGRAM TO KEEP NEW YORKERS SAFE FROM LITHIUM-ION BATTERY FIRES

Thanks to $2 Million City Investment, Select Delivery Workers Will Be Able to Trade in
Dangerous E-bikes and Mopeds for Safer Certified E-bikes and Batteries

Administration Initiatives Have Significantly Reduced Deaths,
Injuries from Lithium-Ion Battery Fires

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced final rules governing the city’s first-in-the-nation municipal trade-in pilot program for unsafe electric bikes and other electric-powered mobility devices and their batteries. The rules will allow eligible food delivery workers to replace their unsafe devices with certified, high-quality e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries. The program is part of the Adams administration’s “Charge Safe, Ride Safe: New York City’s Electric Micromobility Action Plan” to promote public safety as e-bike usage continues to skyrocket and will help reduce the risk of deadly e-bike fires, often caused by uncertified lithium-ion batteries, as well as enhance street safety by getting faster and heavier illegal mopeds off city streets. Thanks to the Adams administration’s initiatives, there has been a significant decrease in lithium-ion battery fire deaths and injuries so far this year. At this time last year, New York City had experienced 224 lithium-ion battery-related fires resulting in 122 injuries and 14 deaths. So far, in 2024, there have been 222 fires, 88 injuries, and four fatalities caused by lithium-ion batteries.

“My top priority is keeping New Yorkers safe, and that includes from new and emerging threats like the dangers posed by uncertified lithium-ion batteries,” said Mayor Adams. “Thanks to our new trade-in program, eligible frontline delivery workers who keep our city moving will be able to swap their dangerous bikes and batteries for safe versions for free — this is how we make our city safer and more affordable. This initiative builds on our efforts to help New Yorkers charge safe and ride safe — and our efforts are working, with significantly fewer injuries and deaths from lithium-ion battery fires this year compared to last. One death is still one too many, but we are making progress, and the rules we’re finalizing today show that New York City is again leading the nation in getting battery safety done right.”

“E-bikes are an important part of reducing pollution but not at the expense of riders, their families, or neighbors,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “Today, we are proud to accept dangerous e-bikes and, in return, provide zero-emission, safe equipment so hard-working delivery workers can have peace of mind on the job and off.”

“Safer e-bikes, safer batteries, and safer charging practices are integral to a cleaner and more sustainable future, and this program will do this while also protecting all New Yorkers from deadly fires,” said New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “Delivery workers have one of the toughest jobs in New York City, and this trade-in program gives them access to safe equipment at work, while giving their families and neighbors greater peace of mind.”

“For three years, the FDNY has been working to stem the scourge of lithium-ion battery fires, and we’ve been attacking the problem relentlessly,” said Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) Commissioner Robert S. Tucker. “Getting uncertified lithium-ion batteries and devices off our city’s streets is critically important, and this trade-in program will help do just that. We are grateful to partner with the DOT on this out-of-the-box initiative that we know will make our city safer for delivery workers, our first responders, and the public.”

Currently, many food delivery workers utilize uncertified e-bikes and heavier electric and gas-powered mopeds, which cannot be registered with the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles due to the lack of Vehicle Identification Numbers. DOT’s e-bike trade-in program — the nation’s first municipal program of its kind — will focus on exchanging unsafe e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries for new devices. The $2 million trade-in program was established in response to Local Law 131 of 2023, sponsored by New York City Councilmember Keith Powers. The e-bikes provided will be UL-certified, the nationally-recognized standard for e-bike safety and performance. Selected participants will receive a UL-certified e-bike and two compatible, UL-certified batteries in exchange for their unsafe devices and batteries. By swapping these illegal devices for UL-certified e-bikes and batteries, the program will reduce fire and crash risks, help participants comply with local and state laws, and encourage workers to utilize cleaner and greener forms of e-mobility for deliveries.

The program offers trade-ins of both e-micromobility devices and lithium-ion batteries to help ensure that unsafe batteries and devices are fully removed from New York City streets, and that batteries are compatible with the devices they are powering.  Eligible participants must reside in New York City, be at least 18 years of age, own an eligible working device, and have earned at least $1,500 in 2024 as a food delivery worker. Participants will receive two batteries because many delivery workers report that a full day of work often requires the use of two batteries. DOT will launch a public awareness campaign to share more details about the program among eligible applicants, who can start to apply in early 2025.

The program is one of several citywide initiatives to improve e-bike access and foster the growing use of legal e-micromobility options while keeping New Yorkers safe from uncertified batteries. DOT is working to install wider bike lanes along its busiest routes, undergoing a public e-bike charging pilot with delivery workers, and educating New Yorkers about safe and legal e-bike use. DOT’s e-bike charging stations feature battery-swapping cabinets from Popwheels and Swobbee and provide free services to a group of pre-registered food delivery workers. Findings from the pilot show that food delivery workers are enthusiastically participating and now feel productive, and that access to these charging stations has resulted in a reduction, and some elimination, of home charging. In addition to enhanced safety for delivery workers and their neighbors, there have been no safety-related issues or 311 complaints at any of the pilot locations.

Additionally, in the coming months, DOT will publish final rules that will expedite approvals for property owners to install electric micromobility device battery swapping and charging cabinets on public sidewalks, which is currently prohibited. This rule will enable property owners, or commercial tenants with the property owner’s consent, to apply for a permit to install a battery swapping and charging cabinet in front of their business on the sidewalk. Each cabinet must comply with specific siting and dimensional requirements and undergo FDNY and DOB review and approval.

“I have passed legislation and been a staunch advocate for lithium-ion battery safety. There have been four deaths already this year caused by fatal fires where e-bikes were suspected of being the cause. While that is a reduction from the 18 deaths last year, it is still four deaths too many,” said New York State Senator Cordell Cleare. “This e-bike trade-in pilot program to trade in unsafe electric-bikes and other electric-powered mobility devices and their batteries is an effort to keep New Yorkers safe. With the expansion of food delivery workers who use e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries, the Charge Safe, Ride Safe plan addresses the public safety concern of New Yorkers in the city, which this year alone has suffered 222 fires, 88 injuries, and four fatalities caused by lithium-ion batteries. We want to protect the people of the city, and this exchange plan can assist in that endeavor.”

“I am proud to lead in addressing dangerous e-bikes, including those with uncertified reconditioned batteries,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Last year, New York City witnessed over 250 lithium-ion battery fires, taking the precious lives of 18 people and injuring another 133. To end this crisis, I authored Priscilla’s Law to require license plates and inspections of e-bikes, and I helped pass legislation to ban uncertified batteries. Our first-in-the-nation e-bike trade-in program continues our safety work by allowing delivery workers to exchange unsafe vehicles for high quality e-bikes with certified batteries. This $2 million program is a wise investment to take dangerous mobility devices off our streets, just as we do for firearms. Together, we will rid our city of unsafe and reckless e-bikes, paving the way for responsible use of the latest micromobility technology.”

“The safety of New Yorkers is a top priority, and the City of New York’s e-bike trade-in program is a significant step towards protecting our communities from the dangers of lithium-ion battery fires,” said New York State Assemblymember Yudelka Tapia. “By providing safer, certified alternatives, we are helping to reduce risks while supporting delivery workers who rely on these devices. I’m proud to have passed a bill in the state legislature that will enact a similar program statewide, ensuring all New Yorkers can benefit from these critical safety measures.”

“Fires caused by lithium-ion batteries have already taken far too many lives in our city, so we need to do all we can to prevent further tragedies,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “The trade-in program now being launched will take uncertified and unsafe e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries out of service so they will no longer be a threat to the public. I encourage all those eligible for this program to take advantage of it and do their part to keep our city and its residents safe.”

“We’ve had too many fires due to defective e-bikes. We must provide delivery workers with tools to help prevent devastating incidents like the ones we’ve seen,” said New York City Councilmember Oswald Feliz. “With the new e-bike trade-in program, workers will have the opportunity to trade their unsafe batteries for certified batteries — a crucial step to help resolve challenges concerning fire safety.”

“E-bikes are a growing part of our transportation system, and we must make sure that they are safe for riders and their neighbors,” said New York City Councilmember Carlina Rivera. “We have made strides to reduce the risk of fire from uncertified lithium-ion batteries by passing important regulation for sales and making key investments in public and outdoor charging stations. This trade-in program will build on that progress to remove dangerous, uncertified batteries from our streets to make sure no one has to choose between a paycheck and their safety.”

“New York City’s 65,000 deliveristas are well-positioned to help lead our city’s transition to a more carbon-neutral future – but as independent contractors who pay for their own operating costs, these workers struggle to find safe and affordable e-bikes, batteries, and battery charging stations,” said Ligia Guallpa, executive director, Worker’s Justice Project (WJP) and co-founder, Los Deliveristas Unidos. “Lack of access to such critical resources not only increases the risk of injury for these essential workers; it imperils the opportunity to transition to more sustainable forms of delivery. WJP applauds Mayor Adams and the Department of Transportation for its vision in ensuring that our city’s drive toward a more sustainable future is rooted in equitable access to 21st-century innovations that will protect our workers, our city, and our planet.”

“The tragic impact of fires from lithium-ion batteries is preventable, and we’re thrilled to see a major solution through our country’s first-ever municipal e-bike and e-battery trade-in program,” said Ken Podziba, CEO, Bike New York. “Obviously, we look forward to more being done and other solutions rolled out quicker, but we’re thankful that combating this crisis has become a top priority of our government leaders. I commend Mayor Adams, Commissioner Rodriguez, and Councilmember Powers for their leadership in prioritizing the safety of our delivery workers and everyone using e-micromobility devices.”

“En el Movimiento de Repartidores de Comida de la Ciudad de Nueva York, esperamos con interés este programa, y vamos a estar atentos a los beneficios que traerá para nuestra comunidad y para nuestras herramientas de trabajo. Gracias al Departamento de Transporte de la ciudad por su colaboración para hacerlo realidad,” dijo Sergio Solano, representante del Movimiento de Entrega de Comida de la Ciudad de Nueva York.

“E-bikes are supporting access to jobs for tens of thousands of New Yorkers,” said Melinda Hanson, co-founder, Equitable Commute Project (ECP). “We applaud the city for funding this trade-in program that will protect lives and livelihoods by ensuring workers have access to fire-safe, UL-certified models. When combined with the ECP’s SAFE trade-in program and the city’s battery-swapping program, this effort puts us on a clear path to stopping the fires and fully realizing the many benefits that micromobility has to offer.”

“Replacing unsafe e-bikes and batteries with certified, high-quality e-bikes has already proven to be hugely successful in reducing battery fires and improving street safety,” said Elizabeth Adams, interim co-executive director, Transportation Alternatives. “We’re grateful City Hall is taking illegal batteries off the streets and working to ensure every New Yorker has access to a safe, legal, and affordable e-bike. Coupled with on-street public charging and more physical safety infrastructure, we can make our city’s streets safe for everyone to e-bike around the five boroughs.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES YANKEES, METS, LIBERTY HOME PLAYOFFS GAMES HAVE ALREADY GENERATED NEARLY

$200 MILLION IN ECONOMIC ACTIVITY FOR NEW YORK CITY

Each Additional Yankees and Mets Home Playoff Game Expected to
Generate Between $20 Million and $25 Million in Additional Economic Activity

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) President and CEO Andrew Kimball today announced that the 2024 Major League Baseball (MLB) and Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) postseason in New York City has already generated nearly $200 million in economic activity from the home games of their respective playoff runs. The New York Liberty’s WNBA postseason run could generate a cumulative economic impact up to $18.3 million. The analysis accounts for ticket sales and spending from nearly 24,000 visitors from outside of New York City during the Liberty’s postseason run.

Additionally, with both the New York Yankees and New York Mets now participating in their respective Championship Series, each additional home playoff game is expected to generate between $20 million and $25 million per home game — stimulating local businesses and creating jobs and economic opportunity for New Yorkers across the five boroughs. Specifically, a new analysis from NYCEDC found that the New York Yankees 2024 postseason games generate an economic impact of $25 million per home game. A similar analysis found that New York Mets 2024 postseason games generate an economic impact of $20.1 million per home game.

“Playoff runs aren’t just good for our spirits, but also for our wallets. Championship teams on the field mean championship earnings for small businesses and championship wages for hard-working New Yorkers,” said Mayor Adams. “With the Yankees, Mets, and Liberty all making deep playoff runs, it’s a great time to be a sports fan in the greatest city in the world — and sports fan or not, we’re all rooting for more games and more money in New Yorkers’ pockets. If only I had a hat to cheer on ALL our New York City teams together!”

“Congratulations to the New York Liberty, Mets, and Yankees for their success in the playoffs,” said First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer. “As all three teams keep winning, so does the city, with each home game generating millions of dollars in economic activity, spending at small businesses citywide, and more visitors traveling to New York City.”

“There’s nothing like the playoffs, and with the Liberty, Mets, and Yankees advancing, New Yorkers are buzzing with excitement, and the city is set to see a huge economic boom,” said NYCEDC President and CEO Kimball. “MLB and WNBA postseason games stimulate our local economy, bringing visitors to New York City, and we would love nothing more than a deep postseason run for both of our MLB teams, and a championship tonight from the Liberty.”

NYCEDC’s analysis accounts for ticket sales, estimated at 33,000 for the Yankees, 27,000 for the Mets, and 3,400 for the Liberty, and spending from outside of New York City for each playoff home game. Additional earnings for seasonal employees at Yankee Stadium and at Citi Field, as well as other factors were included. Seasonal employment estimates were unavailable for the Barclay’s Center. These impacts stimulate growth in the local economy, creating opportunities and jobs for New Yorkers and spending that is reinvested across the five boroughs.

MAYOR ADAMS BREAKS GROUND ON MAJOR RENOVATION OF QUEENS PUBLIC LIBRARY’S HOLLIS LIBRARY

Library’s Interior to be Transformed with New Reading and Multi-Purpose Rooms, Redesigned Entrance, and More

Administration Has Invested More Than $300 Million in City’s Libraries in Three Fiscal Years; Nearly $900 Million Committed in FY 2025 – FY 2028 Capital Plan

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, Queens Public Library (QPL) President Dennis M. Walcott, and New York City Department of Design and Construction (DDC) Commissioner Thomas Foley today broke ground on a $7.4 million project that will completely modernize the interior of the Hollis Library QPL branch with new reading rooms, more space for computers, and additional features for visitors and staff. Mayor Adams also celebrated three years of significant investments in the city’s libraries, with total investment in the city’s libraries approaching $900 million in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 to FY 2028 capital plan.

“I am proud to be here to break ground on this major renovation of the Hollis Library, a $7 million project that will improve the library experience for this entire community,” said Mayor Adams. “New York City’s libraries are so much more than just a place to check out a book, particularly for low-income New Yorkers. From looking for a job, to staying cool in a heat wave, to getting online, our public libraries are the hearts of our communities. That is why our administration has invested more than $300 million in the city’s libraries over three fiscal years, with nearly $900 million committed in the 2025-2028 Capital Plan.”

“Our administration is focused on providing world-class libraries citywide, ensuring no neighborhood is left behind,” said First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer. “The renovations to the Hollis Library will provide the neighborhood with the state-of-the-art features that New Yorkers deserve. This is just one great example of how our library systems, with this fiscal year’s investments, are providing New Yorkers with access to knowledge and resources.”

“As we break ground on the major renovation of Hollis Library, we are reminded of all the ways that New Yorkers use their libraries in the internet age — not just for quiet study but for play, for caretaking, accessing social services, and so much more,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “Our hardworking team at DDC is up to the task of delivering public spaces that meet the diverse needs of New Yorkers. CM-Build, which the governor has on her desk to sign into law, will help us renovate our aging civic buildings like libraries more quickly and affordably.”

“This DDC in-house design will completely overhaul the current interior into an environmentally-efficient, modern, and spacious library with more natural lighting, several reading areas, a multi-purpose room, more space for computers, and ADA-compliant restrooms,” said DDC Commissioner Foley. “In the future, we hope we can use a faster method of construction management for library renovation projects called CM-Build, which provides a lot more flexibility for dealing with issues that arise in the field after we start work. Once our construction reform bill, which was passed by the state Legislature, is signed in Albany, we’ll be able to complete projects like these even faster and more efficiently.”

“The upcoming transformation of Hollis Library represents our commitment to providing modern, inviting spaces that inspire people to learn, grow, and find success,” said Dennis M. Walcott, president and CEO, Queens Public Library. “I want to thank Mayor Eric Adams, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, and Councilmember Linda Lee for their substantial investment and for their constant support of our libraries.”

Renderings of the Hollis Library Renovations. Credit: DDC

Improvements to the Hollis Library QPL branch, funded in part by Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and New York City Councilmember Linda Lee, will include new insulated walls, new flooring and ceilings, and sleek, embedded light fixtures. The library’s entrance will be upgraded with a new reception area, and the façade will include large perimeter windows for extra lighting. The renovation will create three reading rooms — a main reading room with an area for teenagers, a children’s area, and a multi-purpose room with a visual and audio system. The design also allows for more computer space, with a capacity for 16 workstations. Wireless internet will also be available throughout the building. The interior renovation will follow the latest ADA-accessible standards, including upgraded restrooms.

The project will also replace and upgrade all building mechanical systems, including electric, fire-alarm, and plumbing. Additionally, the library’s interior and exterior lighting and mechanical systems will be made compliant with the New York City Energy Conservation Code. After the renovation, it is expected that the 1973-built library will be certified as LEED Silver for efficiency. The project is expected to be completed in spring 2026.

This announcement builds on recent work that DDC has done across the QPL system to upgrade and renovate buildings. Last week, DDC finished a $1.8 million roof renovation for QPL’s Laurelton Library branch. The library now has a multi-layer roof system for insulation and water protection for the next 15 years. The building’s façade was also restored with brick and marble replacements for a fresher look. The project was done nearly 10 percent under budget, saving taxpayers $160,000. DDC also recently completed a $2.2 million renovation of QPL’s Hillcrest Library. The project replaced the library’s roof and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.

The Adams administration continues to invest hundreds of millions of dollars in the city’s vital network of libraries, which serve as community hubs, cooling centers, resource sites, and more. In the Fiscal Year 2025 Adopted Budget, the city invested an additional $58.3 million in expense funding to the city’s libraries — allowing the city’s three public library system to resume Sunday service across all branches that previously offered it and open newly renovated locations across the five boroughs. Additionally, this summer, Mayor Adams and New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams announced that $42.8 million will be baselined in budgets in years going forward to avoid any sort of service disruptions. Over the past three fiscal years, the administration has added more than $300 million in investments to the city’s three library systems, bringing the total commitment in the FY25 to FY28 capital plans to nearly $900 million.

“Hollis families deserve a spectacular, state-of-the-art library to call their own, and that’s exactly what we’re working to deliver, starting with today’s groundbreaking,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “I’m so proud to have allocated $1 million to this vitally important project, which will make a world of difference for this community, and to have put more than $26 million into the Queens Public Library system as a whole since taking office. Our libraries are the lifeblood of our neighborhoods, and it’s critical that we ensure every single branch sees the investment it needs to best serve our families.”

“Libraries are essential hubs that provide students, older adults, and families a place to socialize, access the technology, and receive supportive services they need to be successful,” said New York City Councilmember Linda Lee, chair, Committee on Mental Health, Disabilities, and Addictions. “I am proud to join my colleagues in fully renovating and modernizing the Hollis Public Library for our community. Residents deserve to feel a sense of pride living in their neighborhood, and this investment to upgrade our community library will serve as another reason to be happy to call Hollis home.”

“The iconic Queens Public Library system is one of the biggest and busiest in the world. More than repositories of knowledge, its branches are hubs of community activity where job seekers receive career guidance, immigrants learn English, and children’s minds grow in Pre-K. I am proud that we reached a fiscally responsible FY 2025 to FY 2028 capital plan that invests almost a billion dollars in our libraries, opening the door to the renovation of the Hollis Library branch,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “We will create new reading spaces, a teen area and multipurpose room, and ADA accessibility upgrades. We will also add new computers, equipment, and furnishings to preserve the Hollis library as a neighborhood institution. Together, we will make these investments so that New Yorkers have the world class libraries they deserve.”

“The Queens Public Library at Hollis is a fantastic neighborhood resource, and I’m pleased to see local branch renovations and reopening across Queens,” said New York State Assemblymember David I. Weprin. “The improvements to QPL Hollis will boost services for children, teens, and adults. As the former chair of the Assembly Task Force for People with Disabilities, ADA compliance is very important to me and I’m glad that these critical infrastructure upgrades are being made to ensure accessibility for all at QPL Hollis. This effort will not only enhance the library’s functionality and accessibility but also provide a vibrant, welcoming space for the community to gather, learn, and grow. I look forward to celebrating the completion of these comprehensive renovations soon.”

“Public libraries create jobs, provide workforce development opportunities, support small businesses, and enrich our everyday lives as New Yorkers,” said New York City Councilmember Carlina Rivera, chair, Committee on Criminal Justice. “The investment to modernize the Hollis Library QPL branch will benefit thousands of residents at a time we see library usage rising, helping connect New Yorkers to vital services and programs.”

“We’re thrilled to have the long-awaited renovations to the Hollis Library QPL Branch,” said Martha Taylor, chair, Community Board 8. “Community Board 8 has advocated for the improvement of the library. We know that former board member Marc Haken, who fought tirelessly alongside us, would be proud to see this. These improvements will create a more modern, accessible space that reflects the spirit and resilience of our community, providing a welcoming environment for learning, connection, and growth.”

MAYOR ADAMS COMPLETES FIRST SECTION OF EAST SIDE COASTAL RESILIENCY PROJECT, TAKING STEPS TO PROTECT LIVES, PROPERTY

First Section of Project — Between East 15^th Street and Asser Levy Playground — Completed Ahead of Schedule, $10 Million Under Budget

City Reopens Murphy Brothers Playground on Avenue C with Flood Protection, New Dog Run, Ballfields, Other Amenities

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced that the city has completed the first section of East Side Coastal Resiliency (ESCR) ahead of schedule and under budget, a major milestone in the effort to protect more than 110,000 Lower East Side residents, including 28,000 in public housing, from future storms and high tides and protect billions of dollars worth of infrastructure and property in the area. ESCR employs raised parkland, floodwalls, berms, and 18 swinging or sliding flood gates to create a continuous line of protection against sea level rise and the growing threat of stronger, more severe coastal storms worsened by climate change. The $1.45 billion project is being built in two sections, with the northern section having begun work in November 2020. Work in that area was completed earlier this week at a cost of $163 million, which is $10 million under its original projected budget, and two months ahead of schedule. Construction on the second section, which is underway and anticipated to be completed by the end of 2026, includes a complete reconstruction of East River Park.

“As one of the world’s great coastal cities, we know that stronger storms and rising seas are a threat, because no one knows when the next Superstorm Sandy will arrive at our doorstep; but New York City plans to be ready,” said Mayor Adams. “Today, we are marking the completion of Phase One of East Side Coastal Resiliency — two months ahead of schedule and $10 million under budget. Once the entire project is completed, the protective gates can be deployed when a hurricane or storm surge is headed our way — protecting lives and New Yorkers’ wallets as we safeguard property. Protecting New Yorkers from climate change is a massive undertaking, with millions of lives and billions of dollars on the line — and we’re more than up to the task.”

“Gone are the days when a park was just a park; now everything must do double duty to protect New York from the vagaries of climate change. There is no clearer example of this mission than the East Side Coastal Resiliency project, where protection and playgrounds are being brought to you ahead of schedule and under budget,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “As part of our broader toolkit to keep New Yorkers safe from bigger and more frequent storms, our coastal resiliency projects are helping us meet the scale of the climate crisis head-on. I look forward to celebrating ESCR’s completion in 2026, thanks to the partnership of our hardworking public servants at DDC and the Parks Department.”

“With this milestone, achieved ahead of time and under budget, New York City takes a huge step toward protecting one of its most vulnerable communities from coastal storms and future high tides,” said New York City Department of Design and Construction (DDC) Commissioner Thomas Foley. “We are pioneering shoreline protection and climate change management for major North American cities, and doing it in a way that enhance recreation and enhances neighborhoods instead of just walling them in.”

“With the completion of this first portion of East Side Coastal Resiliency we are making concrete progress on our critical work to protect New Yorkers from rising sea levels and coastal storm surges like we experienced during Hurricane Sandy,” said New York City Chief Climate Officer and New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala. “These complex and massive projects take many years to design and build, but with more than a dozen similar projects now underway, from Staten Island to the Rockaways to Red Hook, DEP’s Bureau of Coastal Resiliency is eager to be able to operate and maintain these flood defense systems to protect the city from coastal storms.”

“These critical enhancements to the east side’s waterfront parks represent a landmark investment in lifesaving flood protection for over 110,000 residents on the Lower East Side,” said New York City Department of Parks and Recreation Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “Thanks to this innovative project, Murphy Brothers Playground will reopen with improved recreational spaces, new measures to increase climate resiliency, and additional amenities that will keep our urban landscapes vibrant and green for all New Yorkers.”

“This is what New Yorkers want to see,” said Mayor’s Office of Climate and Environmental Justice Executive Director Elijah Hutchinson. “This is a project delivered ahead of schedule and under budget that protects the community, brings recreational and green space, and plugs into one of the largest and most complex coastal infrastructure projects in the nation.”

East Side Coastal Resiliency

ESCR — a $1.45 billion project which is creating a flexible, 2.4-mile-long flood barrier on the Lower East Side from Montgomery Street up to Asser Levy Playground between East 23^rd Street and East 25^th Street — is designed to protect New Yorkers from the region’s anticipated 100-year storm in the year 2050 (a storm that starting in 2050 has a 1 percent annual chance of hitting New York City), based on climate change projections produced by the New York City Panel on Climate Change. The project uses an adaptive design that can accommodate the addition of two more feet of elevation should sea levels in the coming decades rise faster than projections anticipate.

The project has been designed to improve waterfront access through reconstructed bridges and entry points and will also upgrade existing sewer systems to capture and manage precipitation during storms. The first floodgate — which is 42 feet long, 10 feet high, and 32,000 pounds — was installed in February 2022. Flood protection will become effective at the end of the project, which is currently projected for the end of 2026. ESCR also has a companion project to its south called Brooklyn Bridge-Montgomery Coastal Resilience, which is also due to be completed at the end of 2026. Together, the two projects will protect 3.22 miles of coastline from the Brooklyn Bridge north to Asser Levy Playground at a construction cost of close to $2 billion.

ESCR is making improvements to five recreation areas in total. Stuyvesant Cove Park has been rebuilt with new amenities and a combination of floodwalls and floodgates along its western edge. Murphy Brothers Playground, which reopened this week, has new flood protection, a basketball court, a new dog run, two new ballfields, new lighting, a new playground area and swing set, new trees, and new grading and landscaping. The 2.44-acre Asser Levy Playground — which is now intersected by a new floodwall and sliding floodgate — was partially rebuilt with extensive landscaping and new playground and basketball areas using resilient materials. Corlears Hook Park, which is still in construction, will also see improvements such as new landscaping, plantings, lighting, and playground equipment. The first ballfields in the new East River Park opened in September 2024 along with the new larger and more accessible Delancey Street Bridge spanning the FDR Drive.

“Today marks another important milestone in the East Side Coastal Resiliency Project,” said New York State Assemblymember Harvey Epstein. “We should celebrate the reopening of these public spaces with greater protections. I appreciate the city’s efforts to protect our coastline and the tens of thousands of New Yorkers living nearby. We know our community needs more public green space, more trees, and storm resiliency. We will continue to work towards these critical goals.”

“Today marks a new milestone in our path to a resilient future. We have completed the first half of the East Side Coastal Resiliency Project, which will protect over 110,000 of our Lower East Side neighbors from the rising threats of climate change. Best of all, we completed ESCR ahead of schedule and under budget, demonstrating our commitment to the time and cost efficient project delivery that New Yorkers deserve,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “This arsenal of raised parkland, berms, floodwalls, and flood gates combine into an impenetrable wall of defense against floodwaters and high tides. Together, we will make sure all New Yorkers remain high and dry for decades to come.”

“Today is a huge milestone for resiliency on the Lower East Side, and as climate change intensifies, ESCR is increasingly important for protecting the neighborhood’s residents,” said Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine. “Additionally, I’m thrilled that valuable open space, playground, and waterfront access has been restored to the neighborhood.”

“I join my neighbors in Stuyvesant Town and Peter Cooper Village excited that we have reached a major milestone stage of the East Side Coastal Resiliency project,” said New York City Councilmember Keith Powers. “I’m proud that this seawall will protect our neighborhood from the dangers of climate change and that we were able to build such great parks during the project as well. The new Murphy Brothers Playground will be enjoyed by everyone from little leaguers to dog owners.”

“Congratulations to the many teams who worked on the East Side Coastal Resiliency Project for completing the first phase of one of the most consequential resilience infrastructure projects in the country,” said Cortney Koenig Worrall, president and CEO, Waterfront Alliance. “This is the first step towards providing comprehensive flood protection for over 110,000 residents, all while creating a world-class park along the waterfront. We are thrilled to be a part of the effort that has and will help move projects like this forward in the future.”

“As a long-time resident of the Lower East Side waterfront and a community leader involved with the East Side Coastal Resiliency project from the start, I am proud to see this significant milestone achieved ahead of schedule and under budget,” said Trever Holland, chair, Parks, Recreation, Cultural Affairs, and Waterfront Committee, Manhattan Community Board 3. “The completion of the first section is a testament to the collaboration between the city and the community in prioritizing safety and sustainability for the Lower East Side. This project will not only protect thousands of residents from future climate risks but also create much-needed recreational spaces for our neighborhoods.”

“The city has reached an incredible milestone with the completion of the first phase of the East Side Coastal Resiliency project, delivered ahead of schedule and under budget,” said Carlo A. Scissura, Esq., president and CEO, New York Building Congress. “This project shows the city’s determination to protect over 110,000 Lower East Side residents with cutting-edge flood defenses that are vital in the face of climate change. As we embark on the next stages of construction, our members are ready to roll up their sleeves and help strengthen our city’s resilience and ensure the safety of our communities.”

MAYOR ADAMS, MAYOR’S FUND, FAITH-BASED LEADERS ANNOUNCE HURRICANE HELENE AND MILTON RELIEF EFFORTS

In Partnership With Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City and Faith-Based Leaders, Adams Administration to Offer Relief and Support to Those Impacted by Hurricane Helene and Milton

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City, and a coalition of faith-based leaders today announced ongoing efforts to lend support to those impacted by Hurricane Helene and Milton in the Caribbean, Mexico, and Southeastern United States. People can donate directly to the on-the-ground organizations offering support via the Mayor’s Fund website.

“What makes New Yorkers special is that when our neighbors are in need a helping hand, we answer the call — no matter where they may be,” said Mayor Adams. “In recent days, two devastating hurricanes have impacted our neighbors, both domestically and abroad, and our city wants to play its part to help. Together, with our faith-based leaders and the Mayor’s Fund, our administration is asking those who can offer support and donate to on-the-ground organizations to step up and do their part. To those recovering from this tragedy, New York City stands in solidarity with you.”

“In times of crisis, New Yorkers come together and help those most in need,” said Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Ana J. Almanzar. “We are seeing those devastated by Hurricanes Helene and Milton in need of basic resources to help them recover. Thanks to our faith-based leaders, who are stepping up to lend support, and our Mayor’s Fund, we have identified reliable organizations with a proven track record of success to provide relief. Together, as a city and a nation, we can meet this moment head on to ensure that those impacted by these hurricanes know they are not alone.”

“In times of crisis, our collective strength shines brightest,” said Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City Chief Administrative Officer Loraya Harrington-Trujillo. “The Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City is dedicated to rallying resources for those impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Together, with our partners, we are united in our efforts to provide support and relief to help rebuild.”

“New York City is proud to provide resources to aid the response and recovery operations after these devastating storms,” said New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) Commissioner Zachary Iscol. “Partners from across the nation responded to our city’s times of greatest need after 9/11 and Hurricane Sandy, and we’re honored to provide our support to others. NYCEM remains committed to assisting our partners in the ongoing storm recovery efforts.”

NYCEM currently has a New York Task Force One team, including 81 personnel and four K9 dogs, at the Orange Convention Center in Orlando, Florida to act as an immediate response to any structural emergencies. In North Carolina, a task force composed of personnel from NYCEM, the New York City Police Department, and the Fire Department of the City of New York was deployed on September 25. The task force was trained to support with swift water rescue, technical search, canine search, and medical needs. During their time on the ground, the task force carried families to helicopters, provided medical aid, assisted the National Guard in airlifting stranded civilians, and conducted targeted searches. This team returned on October 9 and NYCEM has already sent another relief team to continue their support.

The Mayor’s Fund was created in 1994 to build public-private partnerships and raise private funding for critical initiatives in New York City. The Mayor’s Fund works with 50 city agencies and offices, 300 institutional funders, and 100 community-based partners to advance these initiatives across all five boroughs. For nearly 30 years, the Mayor’s Fund has helped the public and private sectors come together around initiatives that build a stronger, safer, and more just New York City.

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES CITY HALL, MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS TO BE LIT PURPLE AS PART OF NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced that City Hall and a number of other municipal buildings, as well as iconic sites across the city will be lit purple tonight for the 11^th annual “NYC Go Purple Day,” in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The lighting of buildings across the five boroughs will raise awareness and underscore the Adams administration’s commitment to supporting survivors of domestic violence, their families, and communities.

“During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, I am urging all New Yorkers to learn about how domestic, intimate-partner, and gender-based violence impacts New Yorkers and what we can all do to support survivors,” said Mayor Adams. “Critical to our efforts to support survivors and their families is raising awareness for the rich ecosystem of potentially life-saving resources and services available to help New Yorkers reach safety and healing.”

“Across the city, we are wearing purple and lighting up City Hall and other municipal buildings in purple today to honor survivors of domestic violence,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “It is a symbol of how we, as an administration and as a city, stand with all those who have been touched by these issues and we affirm our commitment to supporting all those in need.”

“We all know someone who has experienced intimate partner violence in their life — this violence occurs in every neighborhood and every borough,” said Mayor’s Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence Commissioner Saloni Sethi. “Go Purple Day is an opportunity for all New Yorkers to demonstrate their support for survivors by wearing purple and sharing messages of hope with the hashtags #NYCGoPurple, #StandWithSurvivors, and #DVAM2024. Join us as we illuminate city and state landmarks purple to stand up against cycles of abuse and trauma.”

In addition to City Hall, the following city buildings and iconic New York City sites will be lit up purple tonight at sundown:

City Buildings Being Lit Up:

The David N. Dinkins Manhattan Municipal Building: 1 Centre Street, New York, NY 10007
Gracie Mansion: East 88^th Street & East End Avenue, New York, NY 10028
One Police Plaza: 1 Police Plaza, New York, NY 10038
Staten Island Borough Hall: 10 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island, NY 10301
Queens Borough Hall: 120-55 Queens Blvd, Kew Gardens, NY 11424

Iconic New York City Sites Being Lit Up:

One World Trade Center: 285 Fulton Street, New York, NY 10007The Kosciuszko Bridge
The Parachute Jump in Coney Island: Riegelmann Boardwalk, Surf Avenue (between West 37th Street & Brighton 15th Street), Brooklyn, NY 11235
The Arsenal in Central Park: 830 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10065

A full list of sites being lit up is available here.

While domestic violence is considered one of the most under-reported crimes, in 2023, there were still 245,018 domestic violence incident reports filed by the New York City Police Department — an average of 671 a day. In that same year, there were 87,985 calls to New York City’s 24-hour domestic violence hotline at 800-621-HOPE (4673), and the NYC Hope website of survivor resources had 101,000 visits. The Adams administration’s commitment to advancing the city’s response to domestic and gender-based violence is supported with multiple innovative strategies and initiatives including:

Project Home: A pilot program to provide intensive, specialized housing search assistance to domestic violence survivors with children living in city shelters launched in partnership with New Destiny Housing — a nonprofit that provides housing and services to survivors and their families.
Women Forward NYC: An action plan with more than $43 million in investments aimed at making New York City a national leader on gender equity, including for transgender and gender expansive New Yorkers, with the ambitious goal of becoming the most women-forward city in the United States. The plan addresses gender disparities by connecting women to professional development and higher-paying jobs; dismantling barriers to sexual, reproductive, and chronic health care; reducing gender-based violence against women; and providing holistic housing services, including for formerly incarcerated women and domestic and gender-based violence survivors.
Street Harassment Prevention Survey and Resource Guide: An accessible, practical, and comprehensive guide for New Yorkers to learn how they can prevent and respond to street harassment. The guide includes different steps people can take both in the moment and following an incident of harassment, either as a target or as a bystander, as well as resources available to support someone who has been harassed.

MAYOR ADAMS, FUTURE OF FIFTH PARTNERSHIP UNVEIL TRANSFORMATION OF FIFTH AVENUE INTO WORLD-CLASS, PEDESTRIAN-CENTERED BOULEVARD

Plan Includes Widened, Greened Sidewalks, Prioritizing Pedestrians, and Public Realm

Investment Will Strengthen Historic Corridor’s Economic Engine and Job Creation

Since 2022 Project Launch, Corridor Has Seen Nearly $4 Billion in Real Estate Sales, Showing Significant Enthusiasm in Future of Fifth

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and the Future of Fifth Partnership today unveiled their plans to transform Fifth Avenue between Bryant Park and Central Park into a world-class, pedestrian-centered boulevard, bolstering the iconic corridor’s status as an economic engine and job creator for New York City. The proposed design, revealed today, expands sidewalks by 46 percent, shortens crosswalks making for safer crossings, reduces the number of traffic lanes from five to three, and adds plantings and lighting for aesthetics and safety. Once complete, this project — the first major redesign in the avenue’s 200-year history — is projected to pay for itself in less than five years through increased property and sales tax revenue.

“New Yorkers deserve an iconic boulevard that will rival the rest of the world — and together with the Future of Fifth Partnership, we’re going to deliver just that,” said Mayor Adams. “Right now, 70 percent of the people on Fifth Avenue are pedestrians, but they can only utilize less than half the space. On the holidays, that’s 23,000 people every hour — 4,000 more than a packed MSG — cramming like sardines into constrained sidewalks. That makes no sense — so we’re going to flip the script. We’re nearly doubling walkable sidewalk space, adding hundreds of new trees and planters, installing new seating and activation space, and so much more. And best of all, once completed, the project will pay for itself in less than five years through increased tax revenues. This is a huge win for New York City, and I’m grateful to the Fifth Avenue Association, Grand Central Partnership, Central Park Conservancy, and Bryant Park Corporation, as well as our local elected officials, for their partnership throughout this generational project.”

“The administration and Future of Fifth Partnership’s plans for a redesigned Fifth Avenue will profoundly improve quality of life while increasing economic activity,” said First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer. “Thank you to all of our partners for advancing these innovative plans, which will help fulfill the ‘New’ New York Action Plan’s recommendations for revitalized public spaces and boost our city’s continued recovery.”

“People across the globe identify Fifth Avenue as a premier destination for strolling and shopping. But its larger-than-life reputation means that its sidewalks have reached their capacity, hosting more people per hour in peak seasons than Madison Square Garden,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “By expanding sidewalks, we can turn this avenue into an iconic boulevard, a place for all, for all hours and especially for pedestrians — who can now safely stay on sidewalks rather than navigate cars to get by and through. But this isn’t only for today — it’s for tomorrow, a verdant, sustainable boulevard to grow with our city.”

“New Yorkers and visitors deserve public spaces that are accessible and inviting. It’s proven time and time again that local businesses thrive when pedestrians are prioritized,” said New York City Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu. “This exciting new design will transform Fifth Avenue into a tree and plant filled green boulevard where pedestrians have the space they need and feel welcomed. I look forward to advancing this design and revitalizing this iconic New York boulevard.”

“As we celebrate the 200^th anniversary of one of the most famous streets in the world, New Yorkers can look forward to a brand-new Fifth Avenue that will return the street to its former glory as a pedestrian boulevard,” said Madelyn Wils, interim president, Fifth Avenue Association, and co-chair, Future of Fifth Steering Committee. “Reversing the century-old trend of putting cars first, this visionary design will transform our overcrowded avenue into a spacious and green corridor for shoppers and workers, visitors and New Yorkers, and everyone on Fifth. We are grateful to this administration, our partners in government, and the businesses that help power the city’s economy as we work to turn this vision into a reality.”

“By dramatically widening the sidewalks of Fifth Avenue, we’ll be creating a much more welcoming and comfortable pedestrian experience along this iconic corridor,” said New York City Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “This design proposal will better serve the vast majority of people on Fifth Avenue, those who are traveling by foot, create a greener and calmer corridor, and we look forward to future development with the community.”

“This type of bold thinking and unique public-private partnership is truly transforming one of New York City’s iconic corridors into a vibrant destination, building off the principles laid out in the ‘New’ New York action plan,” said New York City Economic Development President and CEO Andrew Kimball. “We have seen the economic benefits — from creating jobs to increased real estate sales — when we prioritize pedestrians in our commercial corridors and reimagine our neighborhoods into 24/7 live, work, and play communities.”

“By upgrading Fifth Avenue, we are creating a world-class public space that reflects the iconic and vibrant heart of New York City,” said New York City Department of Parks and Recreation Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “This transformation will help Fifth Avenue between Bryant Park and Central Park reach its full potential, prioritizing pedestrian safety, enhancing green spaces throughout the corridor, and adding other essential upgrades to the public realm. Together, we’re taking a bold step towards a greener, more accessible, and more inviting city for everyone.”

“The continuing transformation of our public spaces by the Adams administration is creating safer, quieter, and more welcoming streets for people to enjoy as opposed to vehicles,” said New York City Department of Design and Construction Commissioner Thomas Foley. “We have consistently seen better neighborhoods and happier residents near our plaza projects and in areas like Grand Concourse in the Bronx and Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn where we’re doing traffic calming and other safety enhancements. Fifth Avenue is a worldwide center of tourism and commerce and a perfect candidate for these pedestrian improvements.”

“The redesign of Fifth Avenue gives this iconic boulevard the transformation it deserves, dramatically enhancing the experience of pedestrians and creating a safer, greener, more inviting commercial corridor,” said “New” New York Executive Director B.J. Jones. “This new milestone reflects more progress in the implementation of the ‘New’ New York Panel’s recommendations to invest in a world-class public realm to make our business districts global destinations.”

Renderings of the Future of Fifth Avenue. Credit: City Hall

Fifth Avenue is currently 100 feet wide, comprised of five lanes of vehicular traffic and two 23-foot sidewalks. Even though pedestrians make up 70 percent of all traffic on the corridor, sidewalks account for only 46 percent of the space. Each block serves approximately 5,500 pedestrians an hour on an average day and up to 23,000 people an hour during the holidays — the equivalent of a full Madison Square Garden (MSG) plus 4,000 additional people. The current configuration can no longer accommodate this volume of foot traffic, especially given that only 15 feet on either side is unobstructed for walking; the rest is occupied by street infrastructure like signage, bus stops, lighting, and trash cans.

The new design nearly doubles the width of the sidewalks to 33.5 feet each, expanding unobstructed walking space to 25 feet on each side and adding another 8.5-foot-wide section for trees. These changes will reduce crossing lengths by more than a third, increasing pedestrian safety. Beyond rebalancing Fifth Avenue’s space to reflect its usage, the new design also greens the corridor with more than 230 new trees and 20,000 square feet of planters, new seating and activation space, better lighting, and more. Greening Fifth Avenue will create additional shade cover to protect against heat and innovative stormwater infrastructure to prevent flooding. The design draws inspiration from Fifth Avenue’s historic landmarks and art deco influences, heightening the iconic architectural features integral to the avenue’s visual identity. It is also inspired by other iconic shopping street redesigns, including the Champs Elysees in Paris; Calle Serrano in Madrid; Bond, Oxford and Regent Streets in London; and Ginza in Tokyo. The effort builds on the core tenets of the “New” New York panel’s action plan, which identified public space as a key force for the city’s economic recovery.

Fifth Avenue has long been an economic powerhouse for New York City. The avenue is responsible for 313,000 direct and indirect jobs, which in turn generate $44.1 billion in total wages and $111.5 billion in total economic output each year. Moreover, since Mayor Adams announced this project in December 2022, Fifth Avenue has experienced an unprecedented wave of investment in commercial renovations, record-breaking sales, and leasing activity. Since 2023, there have been more than 10 commercial real estate sales on Fifth Avenue, totaling $3.9 billion.

This investment has been fueled by the project and its anticipated economic impact. The Adams administration’s 2022 Holiday Open Streets initiative on Fifth Avenue, which made 11 blocks of Fifth Avenue vehicle-free for the first time in a half-century and brought back popular pedestrian-focused areas around Rockefeller Center, drove an estimated $3 million in additional spending at businesses along pedestrianized streets — with merchants on Open Streets seeing a 6.6 percent increase in spending over similar blocks that were not opened to pedestrians.

Last year, the Adams administration launched the Future of Fifth public-private partnership, which brings city agencies together with the Fifth Avenue Association, Grand Central Partnership, Central Park Conservancy, and Bryant Park Corporation to further this project. The group selected firms Arcadis, Sam Schwartz Engineering, and Field Operations to lead the design and study, and schematic design is slated for completion by summer 2025.

“Our Future of Fifth Partnership plan will transform one of the world’s most iconic corridors into a pedestrian-friendly hub of unprecedented activity,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Inspired by the Holiday Season Open Streets that generated $3 million in additional consumer spending, the reimagining of Fifth Avenue will remove traffic lanes, increase sidewalks by 46 percent, and add much-needed greenery to our concrete jungle. We will increase pedestrian safety while boosting foot traffic and commercial activity to new heights. This project is also fiscally responsible, expected to generate so much added property and sales tax revenue that it should pay for itself in under five years. From Central Park to Bryant Park, we will refashion Fifth Avenue into an epicenter of energy in our city.”

“Fifth Avenue is among our most heavily used corridors by pedestrians, bringing workers, shoppers, and visitors from across the city and the world. By massively expanding pedestrian and sidewalk space, this vision helps align the streetscape with those who are using it most,” said Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine. “While there is still work to do to ensure this plan will meet the needs of all travelers and users of the streetscape, I’m looking forward to working with the Future of Fifth Partnership, DOT, and local stakeholders to bring a new era to this famous avenue.”

“The Future of 5^th Avenue project represents a huge opportunity to improve and reshape one of the most important shopping districts in Manhattan by creating world-class pedestrian plazas and safer streets,” said New York City Councilmember Keith Powers. “I look forward to working with community stakeholders to see that the needs of all New Yorkers from workers to shoppers to commuters to residents are addressed in this proposal.”

“Home to iconic landmarks and stores, Fifth Avenue is one the world’s most famous commercial corridors,” said Fred Cerullo, president and CEO, Grand Central Partnership. “These design concepts are the product of months of dialogue between stakeholders and planners to reimagine this important centerpiece of New York City’s economy and to create a superior pedestrian experience from Bryant Park to Central Park.”

“Fifth Avenue is a heavily-used, iconic boulevard, and we applaud the city for taking on this important project and developing a vision that will make it greener and more pedestrian-friendly,” said Betsy Smith, president and CEO, Central Park Conservancy. “The Conservancy is continuously working to improve the Fifth Avenue entrance to Central Park, most recently through our restoration of Grand Army Plaza South which we believe compliments the city’s new initiatives.”

“If we are going to tackle the climate crisis, we must drastically reduce emissions from our transportation sector,” said Pat McClellan, policy director, New York League of Conservation Voters. “The redesign concept for the Fifth Avenue Study area is a great example of how we can do that by prioritizing pedestrians over the gas guzzling automobile that has ruled our streets for too long. We applaud Mayor Adams and Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu for advancing this visionary project — and for doing so the right way by seeking community input in the process.”

“Our city relies on Fifth Avenue as an economic engine, so we congratulate New York City on plans to enhance the pedestrian realm, prioritize moving people and create open space,” said Kate Slevin, executive vice president, Regional Plan Association. “As the plan advances, we hope it can go even farther — incorporating a protected bike lane southbound, if not on Fifth Avenue proper, on one of the avenues between Second and Sixth Avenues, and leading to a longer-term vision for surrounding streets in midtown.”

“This is a smart, well-rounded plan that will optimize what makes Fifth Avenue so iconic in the first place,” said Jackson Chabot, director of organizing and advocacy, Open Plans. “Locals and visitors use this bustling corridor to commute, shop, and sightsee; it just makes sense to strategically design it with those needs in mind. The wide range of tools — wider sidewalks, traffic calming, curb extensions, loading zones, lighting, plants, and more — will improve nearly every aspect of how Fifth Avenue functions and feels, which we know boosts commerce, community, health, and happiness. We look forward to seeing this visionary transformation inspire a brighter future for the entire city.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES TENTATIVE AGREEMENT BETWEEN DC 37, LOCAL 205, AND DAY CARE COUNCIL OF NEW YORK TO DELIVER RAISES FOR CHILD CARE WORKERS

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Office of Labor Relations (OLR) Commissioner Renee Campion, District Council 37 (DC 37) Executive Director Henry Garrido, and Day Care Council of New York (DCCNY) Executive Director Tara Gardner today announced a tentative five year, five month, and 12 day contract agreement between DC 37/1707, Local 205 (DC 37), and the DCCNY to raise wages for thousands of child care providers cross the city and establish an $18 minimum wage.

The tentative agreement negotiated between DCCNY and DC 37 — which covers employees at dozens of non-profit child care organizations who contract with the New York City Department of Education (DOE) — provides compounded wage increases of 16.21 percent. The wage increases are retroactive, with the first increase effective October 1, 2022. The tentative agreement also establishes an $18 per hour minimum pay rate, effective October 2024, provides a $2,000 lump sum ratification bonus to each employee, and a $1,000 per employee contribution towards health insurance for child care workers. Additional payments will also be made every summer to employees working Extended Day and Year Programs, and longevity-based payments which had been suspended for over a decade are to be resumed effective October 1, 2024

“Working families cannot thrive without child care, and to build a strong child care system in this city, we must invest in the New Yorkers who make it run every day,” said Mayor Adams. “I am thrilled DC 37 and the DCCNY have reached an agreement that will deliver well earned-raises and establish a strong minimum wage for thousands of hard-working New Yorkers. With this agreement, we are helping put more money back into the pockets of working-class New Yorkers and investing in our child care system for years to come.”

“Our early childhood workforce works tirelessly to ensure New York City’s youngest children have the opportunity to receive high-quality education that helps them grow, learn, and thrive. This agreement addresses long-standing wage and compensation inequities and reinforces the Adams administration’s commitment to lifting up our early childhood educators,” said Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Deputy Mayor Ana J. Almanzar. “New York City’s families and economy depend on a strong, well-compensated early childhood workforce and I thank DC 37 and DCCNY for their partnership in getting this done.”

“I am pleased to have assisted the parties in reaching a tentative agreement that provides substantial wage increases and other benefits for these dedicated child care workers while remaining fair to the city taxpayers who fund these programs,” said OLR Commissioner Campion. “Thank you to DC 37 Executive Director Henry Garrido and DCCNY Executive Director Tara Gardner for working tirelessly to reach this settlement.”

“Our early childhood education providers are a cornerstone of our school system,” said DOE Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos. “The foundational work that they do sets the tone for our youngest children to develop a lifelong love of learning. These are the bright starts that give way to bold futures, and we are pleased to see DC37 and DCCNY reach a fairer agreement for all.”

“Our day care workers keep this city running — their expertise and care for the youngest New Yorkers allows working families the ability to attend to their jobs and other responsibilities. We are proud that this tentative agreement provides long overdue raises and a ratification bonus for our members, an additional stipend for summer workers, and lifts the minimum rate to $18 per hour, which is aligned with the public sector,” said Henry Garrido, executive director, DC 37. “We also fought for health care and education funding that will help our members take care of their own families and advance in their careers. We thank Mayor Adams, Commissioner Campion, and the Day Care Council for working with us to reach this fair contract for our members.”

“This agreement shows the city’s respect for our workers and appreciation for their hard work and dedication. Inflation has gone up for many years while our salaries haven’t. We come to work every day to take care of your children, and then we have to provide for our own families,” said Robert Ramos, president, Local 205 Day Care Employees. “This contract will impact every facet of life for our members and alleviate some of the pressures at home. I want to thank the Day Care Council and the city for coming to the table and working with us on a fair agreement.”

“The hardworking, compassionate, and talented individuals in early childhood education are truly New York City’s unsung heroes,” said Tara N. Gardner, executive director, Day Care Council of New York. “Their expertise and dedication enable child care centers to provide the high-quality education and care our youngest New Yorkers deserve. This is a step forward on the path to parity between early childhood professionals working in center-based programs and those working in NYC public schools, which started in 2019. The reinstatement of longevity increases, the introduction of a summer differential for teachers and staff in 12-month Extended Day and Extended Year programs, and the funding of overdue base salary adjustments are critical steps in acknowledging the importance and impact of this workforce. We are deeply grateful to DCCNY’s management negotiating team, DC 37 Local 205, our advocacy partners, the City Council, and the many city agencies—including the OLR, DOE, and the Office of Management and Budget—for their dedication to this process. We look forward to ongoing collaboration with Mayor Adams and our partners in organized labor to strengthen the early childhood system and ensure that this workforce receives the recognition, compensation, and benefits they have long deserved.”

Members will receive the following compounded wage increases:

October 1, 2022: 3.00 percent
October 1, 2023: 3.00 percent
October 1, 2024: 3.00 percent
October 1, 2025: 3.00 percent
October 1, 2026: 3.25 percent

The tentative agreement is subject to union ratification.

The tentative agreement comes on the heels of the Adams administration’s work with the New York City Council to strengthen early childhood education across the five boroughs and address longstanding systemic issues, while boosting enrollment. Under the leadership of Mayor Adams, early childhood enrollment is at the highest level ever, with over 150,000 children enrolled in New York City’s early childhood system.

The Adams administration’s efforts to assist DCCNY and DC 37 in reaching this agreement builds on the administration’s success in reaching agreements to provide fair wage increases for city employees. In the last 20 months, Mayor Adams has successfully negotiated contracts with unions representing nearly 97 percent of the city’s workforce. These agreements with District Council 37, the Communications Workers of America Local 1180, the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association, the Uniformed Sanitation Workers’ Union Local 831, the United Federation of Teachers, the Police Benevolent Association, the Uniformed Officers Coalition, the Council of School Supervisors and Administrators, Teamsters Local 237, the United Probation Officers’ Association, and dozens of other unions have all included wage increases, including retroactive wage increases for employees that had not received a raise in years. Additionally, many of these contracts included dedicated funding to address retention and recruitment challenges and other important benefits.

MAYOR ADAMS, GOVERNOR HOCHUL CELEBRATE NEW TAX INCENTIVE NUMBERS TO HELP BUILD TENS OF THOUSANDS OF CRITICALLY-NEEDED AFFORDABLE HOUSING UNITS

HPD Received Letter of Intent Forms from 650 Buildings, Representing 71,000 New Homes and 21,000 Affordable Apartments for 421-a(16) Extension Program

421-a(16) Extension Part of Adams Administration’s Successful Albany Housing Agenda to Secure New Tools to Address City’s Housing Crisis

Announcement Comes During Ongoing Outreach Efforts to Engage Small Developers, Including M/WBEs, to Utilize 421-a Program

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York Governor Kathy Hochul today celebrated new numbers for the 421-a extension tax incentive program to help build tens of thousands of critically needed affordable housing units. The New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) received Letters of Intent for approximately 650 buildings, representing about 71,000 new homes, including 21,000 affordable units. These new numbers come as the city faces a 1.4 percent rental vacancy rate, with half of all New York renters paying more than 30 percent of their income in rent. The 421-A extension was part of the Adams administration’s successful Albany housing agenda to secure new tools to address the city’s housing crisis and build a moonshot goal of 500,000 new homes by 2032. Today’s announcement comes as HPD is engaging small developers, including minority- and women-owned business enterprises (M/WBE) to utilize the 421-a program.

“At the beginning of this year, Governor Hochul and myself stood together and promised New Yorkers real solutions to deliver on affordable housing. Today, I’m proud to say: promises made, promises kept,” said Mayor Adams. “The 421-a tax incentive extension, which our administration successfully advocated for last session, has proven to be a success. We have received Letters of Intent from approximately 650 buildings, representing 71,000 new homes, including 21,000 affordable units. Our administration and the state came together to meet this generational crisis head-on, and now, the City Council has their moment in front of them. The City Council has an opportunity to join New Yorkers in saying ‘yes’ to our ‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity’ proposal — the most pro-housing change in the history of the city’s zoning code. To deliver the affordable housing New Yorkers need and deserve, every level of government has a role to play, and we look forward to working with our partners in the City Council to build our way out of this housing crisis.”

“By extending the 421-a construction completion deadline, we are able to put more than 70,000 new homes back on track and create affordable options to live in New York City,” said Governor Hochul. “My administration is committed to combating the affordability crisis in every region of the state, and I want to thank Mayor Adams and his team for their partnership and advocacy as we tackle the housing crisis by ensuring that there are more and more opportunities to live and thrive in New York State.”

“This administration is making profound inroads on our housing crisis, wasting no time to use the tools we won in Albany to create affordable housing,” said First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer. “Between these numbers, our record housing production in Fiscal Year 2024 and our relentless work to pass ‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity,’ we’re rising to the moment to meet New Yorkers’ need for affordable housing.”

“With a 1.4 percent rental vacancy rate, we must do all we can at every level of government to create more housing. The extension of 421-a will allow for the construction of thousands of homes that will make a real difference in the lives of New Yorkers,” said New York City Department of City Planning Commissioner and City Planning Commission Chair Dan Garodnick. “Now, with ‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity,’ we can keep up the momentum and take a big bite out of housing crisis by adding a little more housing in every neighborhood.”

“The overwhelming response to the 421-a extension speaks volumes about our deep commitment to creating affordable housing,” said HPD Commissioner Adolfo Carrion Jr. “New housing is not just about bricks and mortar — it’s about transforming lives and strengthening our communities. Every project and every single apartment we produce through HPD makes a tangible difference for New Yorkers, providing them with the stability and security they need. The extension of the 421-a(16) program is a powerful tool that not only supports our developers but also fuels our mission to create affordable housing options that countless families rely on for a better future.”

Earlier this year, Mayor Adams and members of his administration successfully advocated for new tools in the 2024 New York state budget to spur the creation of urgently needed housing. These tools included the new 421-a tax incentive program, a tax incentive program to encourage office conversions to create more affordable units, the lifting of the arbitrary “floor-to-area ratio” cap that held back affordable housing production in certain high-demand areas of the city, and the ability to create a pilot program to legalize and make safe basement apartments. 

Under the 421-a extension program, new construction projects that commenced construction prior to June 15, 2022, have an extended completion deadline for qualifying projects seeking 421-a(16) tax benefits from June 15, 2022 to June 15, 2031. The extension enables projects that require extended construction periods to move forward without interruption as long as projects filed this Letter of Intent with HPD. By facilitating a longer timeline, the 421-a(16) extension allows for the thoughtful, sustainable development of housing that meets the diverse needs of the city’s population. The extension removed the controversial Options C and G, which allowed all affordable units in a project to be restricted at up to 130 percent area median income (AMI). Projects participating in the extension will instead need to provide deeper affordability compliant with the remaining 421-a(16) options, such as Option A with 10 percent of total units affordable to households making no more than 40 percent AMI, 10 percent of units affordable to households below 60 percent AMI, and an additional 5 percent of units at 130 percent AMI.

HPD conducted extensive outreach to affordable housing developers, including smaller sized and M/WBEs firms, to brief them on the new the tax incentive, inform them on critical deadlines, and direct them to submit a Letter to Intent to utilize the program. HPD will be publishing the Letter of Intent filings through Open Data this fall.

The previous 421-a program was a vital tool in creating critically-needed affordable housing. In Fiscal Year (FY) 2024, the 421-a program drove construction of 5,400 affordable homes nearly 40% of the agency’s new construction production for the fiscal year. HPD and HDC financed a total 27,911 units through new construction and preservation deals, an increase of 80 percent from 2022.

Last month, the City Planning Commission voted to approve “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity,” a historic zoning proposal to enable the creation of a “little more housing in every neighborhood.” The proposal would allow for the creation of up to 108,850 new homes over the next 15 years. City of Yes for Housing Opportunity will head to the New York City Council for a hearing and final vote before the end of the year.

Since the start of his administration, Mayor Adams has made record investments towards creating and preserving affordable housing. In July, Mayor Adams announced back-to-back record breaking years in both creating and connecting New Yorkers to affordable housing. In June, the Adams administration delivered an on-time, balanced, and fiscally-responsible $112.4 billion FY25 Adopted Budget that invests $2 billion in capital funds across FY25 and FY26 to HPD and the New York City Housing Authority’s capital budgets. In total, the Adams administration has committed a record $26 billion in housing capital in the current 10-year plan as the city faces a general housing crisis. In July, Mayor Adams and others also announced a landmark $500 million investment from the Battery Park City Authority’s Joint Purpose Fund to build and maintain affordable housing. And this past spring, thanks to Mayor Adams’ vision and leadership, the city celebrated the largest 100 percent affordable housing project in 40 years with the Willets Point transformation.

Additionally, under Mayor Adams’ leadership, the city is fulfilling its 2024 State of the City commitment to build more affordable housing, including by being ahead of schedule on advancing two dozen affordable housing projects on city-owned land this year through the “24 in ‘24” initiative, reopening the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program waitlist after being closed to general applications for nearly 15 years, and creating the Tenant Protection Cabinet to coordinate across agencies to better serve tenants. The city has also taken several steps to cut red tape and speed up the delivery of much-needed housing, including through the “Green Fast Track for Housing,” a streamlined environmental review process for qualifying small- and medium-sized housing projects; the “Office Conversion Accelerator,” an interagency effort to guide buildings that wish to convert through city bureaucracy; and other initiatives of the Building and Land Use Approval Streamlining Taskforce.

“I applaud Governor Hochul and Mayor Adams for working together to take this important step forward in kickstarting rental housing production. At a time when our housing crisis is deepening, this extension will immediately put tens of thousands of housing units in play and demonstrates how valuable a tax incentive program is to spurring production,” said Rafael E. Cestero, CEO, The Community Preservation Corporation. “Before it was allowed to expire, 421-a was critical to the creation of low- and moderate-income rental housing in working class communities and helped create opportunities for mixed-income housing in more expensive markets. The zoning changes in City of Yes, combined with implementing the new 485-x tax incentive would give us hope that the city could address this severe supply and demand imbalance that makes housing so expensive for too many.”

“As expected, the 421-a deadline extension has proven to be a commonsense policy action necessary to ensure the delivery of new, desperately needed rental housing,” said Basha Gerhards, senior vice president, planning, Real Estate Board of New York. “We are grateful to see the progress of hundreds of projects and thank Mayor Adams, Governor Hochul, and State Legislature for advancing a solution that helps address New York City’s housing supply crisis.”

“You can’t fight every fight, nor can you win every fight. But, I am grateful that Governor Hochul and Mayor Adams had the courage to fight for more housing in a time of unprecedented crisis and need. That is what leadership is all about,” said Kirk Goodrich, president, Monadnock Development.

“At L+M, we believe that the robust interest in the 42-1a extension underscores how urgently we need ALL of the tools available to address the housing crisis,” said Lisa Gomez, chief executive officer, L+M Development. “Tax abatements like 421-a are vital to the creation of affordable housing — and are certainly one of the ways we can blunt the effects of rising operating costs like insurance.”

“Governor Hochul, Mayor Adams and their teams deserve credit for keeping this vital new housing on track,” said David Schwartz, co-founder and principal, Slate Property Group. “We’re in a crisis that demands an ‘all of the above’ response. Thanks to swift action by the state and city, New Yorkers will soon be moving into thousands of new apartments that might never have been built.”

“Extending 421-a was an essential move to strengthen the pipeline of new housing in New York,” said Rachel Fee, executive director, New York Housing Conference. “It’s no surprise that there’s so much interest in taking advantage of the extension — tax incentives are critical to get new housing financed and built. We need every tool available to us, including the City of Yes for Housing Opportunity, to add new units and combat our housing shortage head-on.”

“Too many New Yorkers have to navigate a shortage of affordable housing that is essential to keep our neighborhoods thriving,” said Karim Hutson, president and CEO, Genesis Companies. “Programs like the 421-a extension are crucial to building the homes families urgently need, and we’re committed to partnering with the state and city to address the housing and affordability crisis for the communities we serve.”

MAYOR ADAMS SHIPS 1,246 POUNDS OF SEIZED ILLEGAL VAPES TO BE DESTROYED AND KEEP NEW YORKERS SAFE

Adams Administration Has Sealed Over 1,200 Illegal Locations, Seized an Estimated $80 Million of Illegal Products

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Sheriff Anthony Miranda, New York City Police Department (NYPD) Interim Commissioner Thomas G. Donlon, and New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) Commissioner Vilda Vera Mayuga today celebrated the transportation of more than 1,200 pounds of illegal vape products out of New York City as they are shipped off for destruction. The products — all seized through the Adams administration’s successful “Operation Padlock to Protect” — contain batteries and other hazardous materials that must be disposed of safely. The products are being sent to the NYPD’s long-term DNA evidence destruction vendor, ENP Environmental, in Grafton, Ohio.

As a result of the operation’s rapid success, the city has seized more than $80 million in illegal products, which have been taking up an outsized amount of space across NYPD’s network of evidence warehouses. Mayor Adams, today, joined members of the New York City Sherriff’s Joint Compliance Task Force — made up of the Sheriff’s Office, the NYPD, and DCWP — to participate in NYPD’s standard evidence destruction process of loading illegal substances and products to be sent to destruction in an environmentally-responsible way. Upon seizure, untaxed and illegally sold tobacco and vape products are subject to forfeiture, and ultimately may be destroyed by the city.

In August, Mayor Adams and the task force destroyed more than four tons, or 576 bags, of seized, illegal cannabis products as part of the NYPD’s standard evidence destruction process of incinerating illegal substances and products in an environmentally-responsible way.

“Today, we say goodbye and good riddance to products that endanger our children and undermine our quality of life,” said Mayor Adams. “From the moment we were given the additional authority we needed from the state to weed out illegal cannabis operators, our administration took swift action. Through our successful ‘Operation Padlock to Protect’ initiative, we have already shut down more than 1,200 unlicensed smoke shops, confiscated an estimated $80 million worth of illegal products, and seized thousands of illegal vapes. This is a major example of the significant results we are achieving in improving New Yorkers’ quality of life and builds on the gains we’ve made in keeping communities safe. Last month alone saw a decrease in homicides, robberies, burglaries, grand larcenies, transit crime, and car theft, but we know there is still more to do. Our administration will continue to focus on our mission of making New York City a safer, more affordable city, and today’s announcement is another example of just that.”

“The Sheriff’s Office will continue to work with our partner agencies to remove unlicensed and unregulated flavored vapes from the shelves of our communities, continuing the fight to protect our youth,” said Sheriff Miranda. “We are glad that the NYPD is destroying these products in an eco-friendly manner consistent with the policy and practice of the Sheriff’s Office.”

“The NYPD and our task force colleagues are dedicated to enforcing laws, holding accountable those who break them, and protecting the health of everyone we serve, especially our youth,” said NYPD Interim Commissioner Donlon. “Through these operations, we successfully achieve each of these goals while improving the quality of life for New Yorkers. Our ongoing efforts serve as a model of effective collaboration, and I commend all those involved for their unwavering commitment to public safety.”

“Safeguarding the health and safety of our neighbors, especially our youth, is our top priority,” said DCWP Commissioner Mayuga. “The illegal sale of cannabis products jeopardizes the well-being of all New Yorkers. I take pride in the ongoing collaboration between DCWP and our partner agencies as we work tirelessly to bring unlicensed businesses from our communities into compliance and ensure a safer environment for everyone.”

Following Mayor Adams’ successful advocacy in Albany for municipalities to be given the regulatory authority by the state to finally shut down illegal cannabis and smoke shops plaguing city streets, New York City moved quickly to execute its legal authority, and accelerated its steady enforcement. With the newly granted local authority, the Adams administration has executed a five-borough strategy to finally end this public health and safety issue.

Operation Padlock to Protect systematically conducts joint operations — which include inspections and follow-up inspections — in neighborhoods across the five boroughs. When illegal stores are ordered to be sealed, officers from local NYPD precincts monitor those locations to ensure compliance and to alert the Sheriff’s Office when violations of a sealing order occur.

Record-high closures build on praise by New Yorkers, who join the administration in prioritizing decisive action against this public-safety and quality-of-life nuisance. Operation Padlock to Protect is another example of the Adams administration’s efforts to double down on its commitment to swiftly shut down illegal operators, protect the city’s children, improve quality of life, and facilitate a safe and thriving legal cannabis market.

The legalization of cannabis is intended to create a new economy to emerge in New York state, while addressing the harmful impact of the “War on Drugs” on Black and Brown New Yorkers. For New York City’s new cannabis economy and justice-involved businesses to thrive, the city and state must protect the development of the legal market. To do so, the Adams administration launched Cannabis NYC, under the New York City Department of Small Business Services, to provide free resources and services for all New Yorkers interested in the cannabis industry. Cannabis NYC has already engaged over 10,000 New Yorkers on its five borough “Lift Off! Cannabis NYC” public education, listening, and outreach tour and over 400 New Yorkers have participated in the FastTrac for Cannabis Entrepreneurs sessions, which connects legal cannabis business owners and entrepreneurs with free, high-quality training and advice delivered by leading voices in the legal cannabis industry. Recently, the Adams administration launched a $2 million Cannabis NYC Loan Fund, offering up to $100,000 to legal operators who have a Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensaries (CAURD) license.

The Adams administration has also taken specific actions to combat illegal vaping devices, and particularly, its effects on youth. In July of 2023, the administration announced that the City of New York had filed a federal lawsuit against several distributors of illegal flavored vapes, including the nation’s largest vape distributor. In April 2024, the administration announced a second lawsuit against 11 local wholesalers, which has now been transferred to federal court. Both actions target distributors for their part in the illegal sale of flavored disposable e-cigarettes, the most popular vaping devices among middle school and high school youth. Both cases are proceeding.

“I was proud to mobilize New Yorkers across all 5 boroughs to pass my SMOKEOUT Act in the State budget, authorizing the city to shut down illegal smoke shops for good. Illegal flavored e-cigarettes were among the stores’ many dangerous products, which they marketed to children with bright packaging and candy flavors,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Once I passed my bill, Mayor Adams sprung into action with the spectacularly successful ‘Operation Padlock to Protect,’ closing over 1,100 shops in a matter of months. Today’s destruction of 1,246 pounds of illegal vaping products will save thousands of our children from a lifetime of nicotine addiction and lung damage – proof positive that we are winning the war on illegal smoke shops. This demonstrates what we can achieve when all levels of government come together to address the issues facing New Yorkers.”

MAYOR ADAMS, COUNCILMEMBER MOYA LAUNCH MULTI-AGENCY OPERATION TO ADDRESS URGENT PUBLIC SAFETY AND QUALITY-OF-LIFE CONCERNS ALONG ROOSEVELT AVENUE IN QUEENS

Led by NYPD, “Operation Restore Roosevelt” Will Focus on Illegal Brothels, Sex Trafficking, Unlicensed Vendors, and Other Quality-of-Life Concerns

Part of Mayor Adams’ “Community Link Initiative,” Intensive Government Response Effort That Has Already Responded to Over 800 Complaints and Conducted Over 600 Operations

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Police Department (NYPD) Interim Commissioner Thomas G. Donlon, and New York City Councilmember Francisco Moya today launched a multi-agency enforcement operation — known as “Operation Restore Roosevelt” — aimed at addressing public safety and quality of life in the Elmhurst, North Corona, and Jackson Heights neighborhoods of Queens. Over the past year, members of the NYPD have been addressing community concerns about prostitution, illegal brothels, unlicensed vendors and food carts, retail theft and the sale of stolen goods, and other quality-of-life offenses. To expand its efforts to address these continuing challenges, the Adams administration is bringing together over a dozen city agencies under the administration’s “Community Link” initiative, a collaborative, sustained, and intensive multi-agency response to address persistent quality-of-life and public safety issues. Additional support from state law enforcement partners to enforce the law and deliver essential services to New Yorkers will be provided. For years, Councilmember Moya has highlighted the quality-of-life issues that have become chronic for many portions of Roosevelt Avenue, advocating for more resources to be deployed to the community to address them.

“Roosevelt Avenue is one of the most diverse avenues in our city — it is home to businesses from all over the world and New Yorkers from all over the world live and raise their families nearby. This road should be the pride of our city, but for too long it has been plagued by persistent public safety and quality-of-life issues. We won’t allow this to continue any longer,” said Mayor Adams. “To tackle these issues, we are launching a multi-agency operation that brings together more than a dozen city agencies with state partners to make sure crime and quality-of-life issues are addressed. Our administration has a clear mission: to make New York a safer, more affordable city, and we will not rest until we have accomplished that mission.”

“Every person who lives and works along the Roosevelt Avenue corridor deserves a clean, safe neighborhood, and that is what this multiagency enforcement operation is going to deliver,” said NYPD Interim Commissioner Donlon. “We are listening to the concerns of this community and finding permanent solutions to longstanding public safety and quality-of-life issues. To do that, we are using the collaborative approach that has led to improved conditions in neighborhoods across our city — and now, with Mayor Adams’ leadership, we are focusing our collective efforts here. It is what the residents and businesses on Roosevelt Avenue rightfully demand, and the NYPD is going to get the job done.”

“I am proud to announce, alongside the administration, the introduction of ‘Community Link’ to Roosevelt Avenue,” said New York City Councilmember Francisco Moya. “This initiative will ensure that no issues get lost between agencies and that we are all working in tandem to provide the people of my district with the safety and quality of life they deserve. I want to thank Mayor Adams for bringing the necessary resources to our community to make this possible. I remain committed to the Roosevelt Avenue Task Force, which will now function as a reporting mechanism for the ‘Community Link’ operation, keeping my office informed and focused on effectively addressing the right issues.”

“Addressing the pressing issues on Roosevelt Avenue is a priority for my office,” said Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz. “Nearby families and residents have the right to feel safe in their own neighborhoods. The dedicated multi-agency effort announced today will serve as a strong deterrent for the illegal activity plaguing this area. At the same time, we remain dedicated to connecting those caught in the cycle of prostitution with meaningful services and support while prosecuting the individuals managing and patronizing these illicit establishments.”

The NYPD is running a multi-agency operation that includes:

Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY)
Mayor’s Office of Community Mental Health (OCME)
Mayor’s Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence (ENDGBV)
New York City Department of Buildings (DOB)
New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
New York City Department of Homeless Services (DHS)
New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH)
New York City Department of Parks and Recreation (NYC Parks)
New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY)
New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS)
New York City Department of Transportation (DOT)
Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA)
New York State Police (NYSP)
Queens County District Attorney’s Office

“This administration is proud to take yet another step in ensuring the safety and well-being of all New Yorkers. We are not just responding — we are leading with comprehensive, community-driven solutions that ensure no neighborhood is overlooked or underserved,” said Chief of Staff Camille Joseph Varlack. “Through initiatives like the highly successful ‘Community Link,’ and now ‘Operation Restore Roosevelt,’ we’re bringing together an unprecedented multi-agency coalition to directly address the chronic quality-of-life challenges in this area. Together, with our partners, I am confident we will continue to make New York the safest and most resilient big city in the nation.”

“Quality-of-life and public safety have been a top priority for this administration from day one,” said Mayor’s Office Community Affairs Unit Commissioner Fred Kreizman. “By launching ‘Operation Restore Roosevelt,’ which has taken into consideration the concerns of the stakeholders along Roosevelt Avenue, we see Mayor Adams delivering on that once more. Through this collaborative multi-agency initiative, we will ensure that our office will work with the appropriate city agencies to tackle and bring back the quality-of-life that all of Roosevelt Avenue’s residents and businesses deserve.”

“This administration is laser focused on making sure that all New Yorkers not only are safe, but also feel safe — and this multi-agency operation is another example of how we are achieving that mission,” said FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker. “‘Operation Restore Roosevelt’ will address the important quality-of-life issues that have been brought to the administration’s attention by the community and ensure that the businesses along Roosevelt Avenue can thrive for generations to come.”

“’Operation Restore Roosevelt’ is a testament to the Adam‘s administration’s commitment to addressing the complex and interconnected issues that affect these communities,” said OCME Executive Director Eva Wong. “The Mayor’s Office of Community Mental Health is pleased to join so many city and state agencies in this coordinated initiative. Together, we can strategize to enhance connections to mental health supports and resources, improving the quality of life for those in need and ensuring that every New Yorker has the opportunity to thrive in a safe and healthy environment.”

“The enforcement of building code regulations is one critical component in promoting greater public safety and maintaining a high quality of living for the public,” said DOB Commissioner Jimmy Oddo. “But many problems in our city are not confined to the jurisdiction of just a single government agency. That is why we are proud to be taking part in ‘Operation Restore Roosevelt,’ which is offering another opportunity for DOB to collaborate directly with many of our sister agencies all at once, to flood the zone on a vital neighborhood and achieve immediate tangible improvements for our fellow New Yorkers. Our ability to serve our fellow New Yorkers is only heightened when city agencies work together as a team.”

“To improve quality of life and ensure public safety, DEP Police and enforcement staff from our Bureau of Environmental Compliance will be joining the multi-agency ‘Operation Restore Roosevelt,’” said New York City Chief Climate Officer and DEP Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala. “Our trained professionals will be specifically looking for violations, including air, noise, and hazardous materials pollution in the Elmhurst, North Corona, and Jackson Heights neighborhoods of Queens. We are proud to partner on this collaborative enforcement action to address the community’s concerns regarding this problematic area.”

“With the launch of ‘Operation Restore Roosevelt,’ this administration is sending a clear message that public safety is a shared commitment,” said New York City Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “This multi-agency effort reinforces our promise to ensure that our city’s public spaces remain safe, vibrant, and welcoming for all.”

“Jackson Heights is home to hard-working people from all over the world, bustling storefronts, and some of the best food on earth,” said DSNY Commissioner Jessica Tisch. “To keep it that way, we have to do everything we can to make Roosevelt Avenue safe and clean. The Department of Sanitation is prepared to work with the NYPD to enforce the law when it comes to vending, dumping, abandoned vehicles, and more.”

“The launch of ‘Operation Restore Roosevelt’ is proof that small business owners who have sounded the alarm about activity and conditions along the Roosevelt Avenue corridor, have been heard and are supported,” said SBS Commissioner Dynishal Gross. “Whether their concerns are related to impacts on their businesses or activity impacting vulnerable community members, this multi-agency strategy shows that they are not alone. By working strategically and collaboratively across government entities, we will ensure that this historic street is a place where New Yorkers from all walks of life can thrive, open and operate successful businesses, and fully enjoy the rich diversity of a revitalized commercial corridor.”

“Every New Yorker deserves a neighborhood that is safe, vibrant, and secure,” said DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “Mayor Adams is bringing together all of the resources of city government to improve safety and quality of life on Roosevelt Avenue, and DOT is a proud partner in this work.”

“The Department of Health and Mental Hygiene looks forward to working with partner agencies to ensure that community livability and individual’s health needs can be addressed,” said DOHMH Deputy Commissioner for Environmental Health Corinne Schiff.

Operation Restore Roosevelt aims to restore safety and order to the area while delivering resources for those impacted by the issues plaguing Roosevelt Avenue. This collaborative approach will utilize the enforcement capabilities of various city agencies. The NYPD will address crime and quality-of-life offenses, including unlicensed vendors, trademark counterfeiting, prostitution, ghost car and moped enforcement, and excessive noise. The DOB will enforce regulations regarding illegal occupancy and obstructed sidewalks. The DOT will enforce dilapidated and out of code dining sheds, while DSNY will address vendor violations and illegal dumping. The FDNY will enforce propane tank and open flame regulations. As part of the operation, NYPD and partners agencies will also identify specific individuals in the area who may need connections to services, such as housing or medical care, and make referrals to the appropriate city agency or service provider.

Today’s announcement adds Roosevelt Avenue to Mayor Adams’ Community Link initiative — launched in 2023 to bring together various city departments and agencies to collaborate with local communities and business leaders as they address complex and often chronic community complaints that require a multi-agency response. Since its inception, Community Link has already convened five community improvement coalitions throughout the five boroughs. Focused in “hot spot” areas, Community Link is active at 125^th Street, in the 110^th Street Corridor, in Midtown West, on East 14^th Street, and in Washington Square Park. Over the last 18 months, Community Link has responded to over 800 complaints and conducted over 600 operations to address quality-of-life concerns raised by the communities they serve.

Today’s announcement also builds on recent achievements in reducing crime across New York City. Last month, the NYPD announced the ninth straight month of declines in overall crime in the five boroughs, with a 3.1 percent drop in major offenses compared to the same month last year.

MAYOR ADAMS KICKS OFF PUBLIC REVIEW ON ATLANTIC AVENUE MIXED-USE PLAN TO CREATE APPROXIMATELY 4,600 NEW HOMES, 2,800 PERMANENT JOBS

Building on Extensive Public Engagement, Plan Would Deliver Community Investments, Infrastructure Updates, and Open Space

Along with “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity” Proposal, Atlantic Avenue Plan Advances Administration’s Moonshot Goal of Building 500,000 New Homes by 2032

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of City Planning (DCP) Director and City Planning Commission (CPC) Chair Dan Garodnick today announced the start of the public review process for the Atlantic Avenue Mixed-Use Plan, a community-led proposal for new housing, jobs, and infrastructure investments in Central Brooklyn. The plan would create approximately 4,600 new homes — including 1,440 permanently income-restricted, affordable homes — and 2,800 permanent new jobs to a roughly 21-block stretch of Atlantic Avenue, including neighboring blocks in Crown Heights and Bedford-Stuyvesant, where restrictive zoning regulations have prevented residential development and job growth. Delivering on a key community priority, the plan would also install traffic safety projects — including planters, bike corrals, and daylighting — at intersections along Atlantic Avenue to improve pedestrian visibility, safety, and accessibility. Today’s announcement comes as the Adams administration aims to address the housing crisis with the passage of its “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity” proposal and advance several neighborhood zoning plans to produce a moonshot goal of 500,000 new homes by 2032.

“The Atlantic Avenue Mixed-Use Plan is a bold, visionary reimaging of what our neighborhoods can — and should — look like,” said Mayor Adams. “Safer streets, more affordable housing, community spaces for our older adults and young people, jobs for communities in need — this proposal is the result of multiple agencies, City Hall, and everyday New Yorkers coming together to transform and build the neighborhoods of tomorrow, today. As it goes through the public review process, I encourage all New Yorkers to make their voices heard, listen to the facts, and embrace the endless possibilities within this proposal. The future is in their hands and all it requires them to say is ‘yes’ to opportunity.”

“After years of calls from the community to fix outdated zoning along Atlantic Avenue, our administration is taking real action to rejuvenate the corridor and transform the area into a place where hardworking New Yorkers can live, work, and play,” said First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer. “We are thrilled to be kicking off the official public review process for the Atlantic Avenue Mixed-Use Plan that will deliver approximately 4,600 new homes and 2,800 jobs alongside critical investments that will allow Central Brooklyn to flourish. I want to thank our team at DCP for leading this effort, as well as Councilmembers Hudson and Ossé for their steadfast partnership.”

“We are prioritizing the whole community on and around Atlantic Avenue with this proposal — transforming an area previously defined by vacant lots and self-storage facilities into a livable, walkable neighborhood. Our administration is delivering on safer streets, wider sidewalks, and infrastructure at and below our roadways to accommodate more and bigger storms — and we’re partnering with the private sector to deliver even more public space,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “This is the kind of thoughtful planning that leads to better connected, more vibrant communities, and I look forward to robust public feedback.”

“For far too long, this stretch of Atlantic Avenue has been stymied by outdated zoning that has limited opportunities for new homes and jobs. It’s past time for a change, and this plan delivers on a community-driven roadmap for the homes, jobs, safe streets, and investments that Central Brooklyn needs,” said Dan Garodnick, Director of the Department of City Planning. “Building on extensive public engagement, this transformational plan would benefit Brooklynites for years to come, and we hope they will continue to make their voices heard as public review gets underway.”

“The Atlantic Avenue Mixed-Use Plan is a community-driven vision informed by extensive engagement and resident input,” said New York City Executive Director for Housing Leila Bozorg. “It is a model for how we should plan for the future of our neighborhoods: building more housing with permanent affordability, improved safety, quality jobs, better public spaces, and investments in infrastructure — all for current and future residents. We’re excited to kick off public review, and I thank Councilmembers Hudson and Ossé, and the many community members and agency staff who have brought the plan to this important milestone.”

“New Yorkers don’t need to be reminded that climate change is bringing more intense storms to the city and we are prioritizing investments to better manage all the rain, reduce flooding, and keep residents safe,” said New York City Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner and Chief Climate Officer Rohit T. Aggarwala. “Upgraded sewers, curbside rain gardens, and playgrounds that absorb stormwater are all improving drainage along the Atlantic Avenue corridor, and we will continue to look for ways to improve the quality of life for both residents and businesses.”

“We are proud to deliver safer streets and transportation options as part of the Atlantic Avenue Mixed-Use Plan,” said New York City Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “This plan will create desperately needed new, affordable housing and generate thousands of jobs in Crown Heights and Bedford-Stuyvesant. We welcome Brooklynites to come out and have their voices heard. And, we look forward to working alongside our sister agencies and New Yorkers on reimagining streets, in the short-, medium-, and long-term, so that they enrich, protect, and uplift the standard of living for all New Yorkers.”

“The Atlantic Avenue Mixed-Use Plan rezoning has been a long time in the making,” said New York City Councilmember Crystal Hudson. “For more than a decade, the community surrounding Atlantic Avenue has called for a new vision for this dangerous corridor that delivers more deeply affordable housing, increased investments in the area’s local economy, safer streets, and greater consideration of local infrastructure needs. The scope of this project was exhaustive, ultimately delivering a framework that brings us closer toward pursuing comprehensive planning across Council District 35. Community stakeholders shared local priorities and dozens of community-informed recommendations to ensure this vital section of Brooklyn can support its small businesses, visitors, and, most importantly, protect and uplift its longtime residents. As the process moves forward, I will continue to fight for a final plan that realizes these priorities and delivers a more just, equitable, and vibrant Atlantic Avenue.”

“There is no doubt that our city and my district specifically face a dire housing shortage that is causing prices to skyrocket and driving everyday New Yorkers to financial crisis,” said New York City Councilmember Chi Ossé. “I strongly support efforts to ease the housing shortage and proud to work hand-in-hand with my community to make sure we get this right”

A New Vision for Atlantic Avenue

The Atlantic Avenue Mixed-Use Plan focuses on a section of Atlantic Avenue and neighboring streets between Vanderbilt Avenue and Nostrand Avenue. Since the 1960s, this area of Atlantic Avenue has been zoned for one-to-two industrial buildings and storage, despite its proximity to a major commercial area and transit hub. The Atlantic Avenue-Mixed Use Plan offers a transformational opportunity to create urgently-needed housing, including income-restricted affordable housing, as well as space for 2,800 permanent new jobs in the commercial and industrial sectors.

Along Atlantic Avenue, the plan calls for high-density housing — with permanently income-restricted and rent-stabilized affordable units through Mandatory Inclusionary Housing — and a mix of commercial uses to create active ground floors. Through this change, the area will transform from a corridor of vacant lots, self-storage facilities, and auto-shops to a mix of residential, commercial, and manufacturing, providing much-needed homes and jobs for New Yorkers. On neighboring avenues and streets, the plan would encourage moderately-sized mixed-use buildings with income-restricted affordable housing and job-generating uses.

Map of the impacted areas within the Atlantic Avenue Mixed-Use Plan.

Building More Affordable Housing

The plan will create nearly 4,600 new homes, including approximately 1,055 permanently affordable homes through the Mandatory Inclusionary Housing program, and an additional 380 units of permanent affordable housing on city-owned or controlled sites found throughout the neighborhood. Utilizing HPD programs, the Adams administration has committed to building over 380 income-restricted affordable homes at several sites in Crown Heights and Prospect Heights, such as 542 Dean Street, 516 Bergen Street, and 1134-1142 Pacific Street. These affordable units will include set-asides for older New Yorkers and the formerly homeless. The administration will continue to explore opportunities for additional affordable developments during the public review process.

To preserve existing affordability, the Atlantic Avenue Mixed-Use Plan will provide a nearly $3 million investment from HPD’s Partners in Preservation program to community-based organizations focused on anti-harassment and anti-displacement programming for area tenants.

Crown Heights and Bedford Stuyvesant are also priority areas for the city’s new $10 million Homeowner Help Desk, a one-stop shop to provide low-income homeowners with housing and legal counseling that will launch later this fall.

Creating Safer Streets and Investing in Public Spaces

The Adams administration is committing to several street safety projects to create a better, safer experience for pedestrians and bicyclists along Atlantic Avenue, as well as nearby transit corridors. This work will include painted “neckdowns,” which are raised curb extensions that narrow the travel lane at intersections or midblock locations, to expand curbside protections; daylighting to improve visibility at intersections; planters; and bike corrals along medians throughout the neighborhood; as well as a new bike lane on Bedford Avenue. To better serve pedestrians, new developments in the plan’s geography would be required to set their buildings further away from the street to create up to a 20-foot-wide sidewalk — an increase from the 8-to-15-foot-wide sidewalks that exist today.

Rendering of Atlantic Avenue’s improved, and safer streets.

The Atlantic Avenue Mixed-Use Plan provides $24.2 million in improvements to St. Andrew’s Playground, including adding a new, synthetic turf multi-use field with a running track, upgraded basketball and handball courts, renovated playground spaces, a remodeled public restroom, new seating, shade trees, plantings, and other green infrastructure. The administration will also improve Lowry Triangle, near Atlantic Avenue and Washington Avenue, to help community members better enjoy and use the space. The plan would also create a zoning incentive for additional publicly accessible open space. The project will complete the design phase in 2025 and anticipate construction to start in 2026.

Other infrastructure enhancements in the wider neighborhood include storm water and sewer upgrades, along Atlantic Avenue and Dean Street, as well as subsurface stormwater detention systems and 140 rain gardens throughout the community. These investments will bolster sewer capacity and help the neighborhood better handle storm and flooding events.

Engaging with the Community

The Atlantic Avenue Mixed-Use Plan is the result of extensive of community-based planning, building on engagement work started by local leaders and Brooklyn Community Board 8 in 2013. Since the official Atlantic Avenue Mixed-Use Plan study kicked off in early 2023 with facilitator WXY Studio, DCP has closely collaborated with the Offices of New York City Councilmembers Crystal Hudson and Chi Ossé, the New York City Council Land Use Division, and agency partners to craft the plan. Today’s certification begins the roughly seven-month Uniform Land Use Review Procedure, which includes recommendations from Community Boards 3 and 8 and Borough President Reynoso, which will be followed by hearings and binding votes at the CPC and then a City Council vote.

The Adams Administration’s Record on Housing

The Adams administration is also in the midst of public review for City of Yes for Housing Opportunity, the most pro-housing zoning proposal in New York City’s history. In addition to the City of Yes and the Atlantic Avenue Plan, DCP is advancing several robust neighborhood plans that, if adopted, would deliver more than 50,000 units over the next 15 years in Midtown South in Manhattan and in Long Island City and Jamaica in Queens. Earlier this year, the City Council approved the Bronx-Metro North Station Area Plan, which will create approximately 7,000 homes and 10,000 permanent jobs in the East Bronx.

Since the start of his administration, Mayor Adams has made record investments towards creating and preserving affordable housing. This past July, Mayor Adams announced back-to-back record breaking years in both creating and connecting New Yorkers to affordable housing. In June, the Adams administration delivered an on-time, balanced, and fiscally-responsible $112.4 billion Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Adopted Budget that invests $2 billion in capital funds across FY25 and FY26 to HPD and the New York City Housing Authority’s capital budgets. In total, the Adams administration has committed a record $26 billion in housing capital in the current 10-year plan as the city faces a generational housing crisis. And this past spring, thanks to Mayor Adams’ vision and leadership, the city celebrated the largest 100 percent affordable housing project in 40 years with the Willets Point transformation. 

Further, the Adams administration is using every tool available to address the city’s housing crisis. This summer, Mayor Adams announced multiple new tools, including a $4 million state grant, to help New York City homeowners create accessory dwelling units on their properties that will not only help them to afford to remain in the communities they call home, but also to build generational wealth for their families. 

Earlier this year, Mayor Adams and members of his administration successfully advocated for new tools in the 2024 New York state budget that will spur the creation of urgently needed housing. These tools include a new tax incentive for multifamily rental construction, a tax incentive program to encourage office conversions to create more affordable units, lifting the arbitrary “floor-to-area ratio” cap that held back affordable housing production in certain high-demand areas of the city, and the ability to create a pilot program to legalize and make safe basement apartments.  

Additionally, under Mayor Adams’ leadership, the city is fulfilling its 2024 State of the City commitment to build more affordable housing across the city, including by being ahead of schedule on advancing two dozen affordable housing projects on city-owned land this year through the “24 in ‘24” initiative, reopening the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program waitlist after being closed to general applications for nearly 15 years, and creating the Tenant Protection Cabinet to coordinate across agencies to better serve tenants. The city has also taken several steps to cut red tape and speed up the delivery of much-needed housing, including through the “Green Fast Track for Housing,” a streamlined environmental review process for qualifying small- and medium-sized housing projects; the “Office Conversion Accelerator,” an interagency effort to guide buildings that wish to convert through city bureaucracy; and other initiatives of the Building and Land Use Approval Streamlining Taskforce. 

“I applaud Councilmember Hudson and the Department of City Planning for orchestrating such a collaborative and inclusive process with a focus on community needs,” said Lenny Singletary, chair, Brooklyn Community Board 2. “This plan’s undertaking thoughtfully considered and received feedback on land use, zoning, traffic, and community priorities in a collaborative way,”

“This plan was developed by community members, looking at our community and asking the question, ‘What can be done in this footprint to address our needs?’” said Irsa Weatherspoon, chair, Brooklyn Community Board 8. “Realistic and affordable, income based housing is one of our dire needs. The community is excited that we are moving forward with concrete solutions in this process.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES NEW “CO-RESPONSE” OPERATION FOCUSED ON SERVING MORE NEW YORKERS IN NEED ON NEW YORK CITY SUBWAYS

Over 1,500 Contacts Made, 500 New Yorkers Received Care in First Month of Program

Adams Administration’s Subway Safety Plan Has Connected More Than 7,800 New Yorkers Living in Subway System to Shelter

Builds on Record Achievement in Subways with Transit Crime Down 5.1 Percent Year to Date

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Police Department (NYPD) Interim Commissioner Thomas G. Donlon, and New York City Department of Social Services Commissioner (DSS) Molly Wasow Park today announced a new public safety and social services outreach initiative to help keep New Yorkers safe and healthy on the subway system. The initiative — known as Partnership Assistance for Transit Homelessness (PATH) — brings together members of the NYPD Transit Bureau, New York City Department of Homeless Services (DHS), and NYC Health + Hospitals to connect New Yorkers living unsheltered in the subway system with shelter and care. Launched in August, PATH teams consist of DHS nurses and outreach staff working alongside NYPD transit police who conduct outreach overnight at subway stations across Manhattan from 8:00 PM to 12:00 M. While in the field, the interagency PATH teams engage everyone they see who appears to be unsheltered, offering individualized support based on the person’s expressed or observed challenges. The program will be expanded in the months to come.

PATH is a major advancement in the city’s embrace of “co-response” — a crisis response model gaining traction nationally, in which police are paired with clinical professionals to engage with members of the public in need of medical care and/or social services. Participating police officers receive specialized training in crisis de-escalation and allow their clinical partners to take the lead once safety is assured. While co-response is not meant to replace traditional outreach conducted without police involvement, in certain situations, the presence of police affords clinicians a greater sense of personal safety, enabling more meaningful engagement. Co-response also greatly enhances the ability of a clinician to initiate transport to a hospital for evaluation in circumstances where an individual exhibits symptoms of mental illness presenting a danger to self or others.

“Since the beginning of our administration, we have been laser focused on creating outreach opportunities and supportive connections with people living in unsheltered environments whether in our streets or on our subways,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “These efforts include a focus on those with severe mental illness and helping folks get the care they need, even if they may not recognize their needs at a given moment. Our PATH teams are another tool to do this work with response teams including NYPD, social service professionals, and nurses from our public hospital system. We look forward to building on these efforts and reaching every New Yorker in need.”

“The men and women of the NYPD are proud to be part of the significant advances we are making to ensure that all New Yorkers — especially those within our most vulnerable populations — can readily access the city services they require and deserve,” stated NYPD Interim Commissioner Donlon. “As we continue to drive down crime on our streets and in the nation’s largest subway system, we are committed to building more trust and strengthening more relationships with all the people we serve.”

“Our around-the-clock outreach efforts and robust expansion of Safe Havens and stabilization beds have helped more than 2,000 New Yorkers who were experiencing unsheltered homelessness move into permanent homes,” said DSS Commissioner Wasow Park. “As we build on this important progress, this new interagency initiative will further enhance the presence of outreach staff and trained clinicians in the subway system to ensure that we are not missing any opportunity to meaningfully engage some of our harder to reach New Yorkers who are in critical need of quality care in safe and stable settings.”

“We are proud of our tremendous frontline staffers — from outreach workers to case managers — who each played a critical role in helping thousands of New Yorkers experiencing unsheltered homelessness stabilize their lives last year,” said DHS Administrator Joslyn Carter. “But we absolutely cannot do this important work alone, and this new initiative will help strengthen and expand the scope of our interagency outreach efforts in the subway system. We are grateful for our ongoing partnership with NYC Health + Hospitals, the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, and the New York City Police Department as we work collaboratively to serve and support some of our most vulnerable New Yorkers.”

“NYC Health + Hospitals is the largest provider of behavioral health in New York City, and all of our hospitals offer emergency psychiatric care 24/7,” said NYC Health + Hospitals President and CEO Mitchell Katz, MD. “Our doors are open any time you need support. We are grateful to our colleagues at the Department of Homeless Services and at the NYPD for their efforts to connect people to our care.”

Since its launch, members of the co-response PATH team have engaged with over 1,550 unhoused New Yorkers, with over 500 New Yorkers directly connected to services, ranging from shelter, meals, and medical help. Additionally, continuing to address the quality-of-life concerns of New Yorkers, members of the NYPD issued 18 summonses and removed 190 people from the transit system for various violations or state law.

The PATH program supplements Subway Co-Response Outreach Teams (SCOUT), an initiative the city operates in collaboration with the MTA’s internal police department. In March 2024, Mayor Adams and MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber announced plans to expand SCOUT to 10 teams operating in daytime hours throughout the subway system by the end of 2025. That expansion is underway and on schedule. While there is a difference in the focus of the two programs, the combination and coordination of PATH and SCOUT will allow for the implementation of co-response at more hours and with greater coverage of the extensive subway system.

Additionally, in February 2022, Mayor Adams launched the Subway Safety Plan to address public safety concerns and support people experiencing homelessness and severe mental illness on New York City’s subways. Since the start of the plan, over 7,800 New Yorkers have been connected to shelter, with over 640 now in permanent, affordable housing.

PATH builds on the Adams administration’s numerous investments in evidence-based solutions to reduce the population of New Yorkers experiencing unsheltered homelessness. Efforts are focused on engaging and building trust with unsheltered individuals in all corners of the city — whether in parks, subways, or on street corners — while ensuring the safety of all neighborhoods. Since the start of the Adams administration, DSS has doubled the number of outreach staff and aggressively expanded its inventory of low-barrier safe haven and stabilization beds. Thanks to these important investments, the Adams administration has connected more than 2,000 people experiencing unsheltered homelessness to permanent housing citywide.

This work is also supported by other efforts the Adams administration has undertaken to address the needs of New Yorkers with serious mental illness. As described in “Care, Community, Action: A Mental Health Plan for NYC,” the administration is committed to taking a public health approach to supporting people with severe mental illness, focusing on prevention and intervention, including by:

Expanding access to mobile treatment capacity with five more Intensive Mobile Treatment teams that went live in December 2023 to serve people with high service needs.

Expanding access to clubhouse services through awards that will serve up to 3,750 additional clients.
Releasing the city’s first ever State of Mental Health Report and Special Report on Social Media and Mental Health.
Promoting 988, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline and crisis line for all.
Developing a single-access system in collaboration with New York state to consolidate and streamline how New Yorkers with severe mental illness access services, which is expected to go live early next year.
Expanding hospital-based response initiative to support people who have experienced a nonfatal overdose.

Among Mayor Adams’ top public safety priorities has been addressing transit crime and homelessness in New York City subways through enhancements in both social services and traditional law enforcement. In addition to launching the Subway Safety Plan, in the fall of 2022, Mayor Adams and Governor Hochul deployed an additional 1,200 police officers to subway platforms and trains each day. Following the end of that deployment in 2023, earlier this year, Mayor Adams directed the NYPD to surge an additional 1,000 police officers into the subway system each day to help keep New Yorkers safe and bring overall crime in the transit system down. And earlier this year, when announcing an expansion of the SCOUT program, Mayor Adams additionally announced a pilot program to utilize new technologies designed to detect weapons carried by travelers into the transit system.

These safety efforts are paying off, with overall crime in the subway system down 5.1 percent year to date, with a 8.7 percent drop in September and double-digit decreases in six months of this year. And last year, overall crime in the transit system fell by nearly 3 percent compared to 2022, as the number of riders increased by 14 percent.

Additionally, in March, the NYPD announced “Operation Fare Play,” an initiative to ensure riders pay their fare when entering the subway system by deploying 800 more police officers into the subway system to crack down on those evading paying their fare as they commit other crimes. The successful operation has helped correct behavior and keep the subway system safe.

“I am pleased that Mayor Adams has announced the new ‘co-response’ operation aimed at addressing the needs of New Yorkers experiencing homelessness in the subway system,” said New York State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud, chair, committee on social services. “The PATH initiative is a crucial step forward in the commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents. I commend the Adams administration for prioritizing both public safety and the urgent needs of our unsheltered population, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact of PATH as it expands.”

“Our new PATH initiative will bring hope to hundreds of unsheltered New Yorkers in the subway system, many with untreated mental illness,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. Teams of DHS staff and NYPD transit officers will provide compassionate social services outreach to unsheltered New Yorkers, bringing dignity and safety to the subway system. We will provide people with the help they need to stabilize their lives, so that the subways are always a means to a destination and never a final stop. This builds upon our successful Subway Safety Plan, which has already resulted in seven consecutive months of lower transit crime and outreach to over 7,800 unsheltered New Yorkers. Together, we will make the world’s largest subway system the safest it has ever been.”

“Helping homeless individuals is more complex than just calling 911,” said New York City Councilmember Lynn Schulman, chair, health committee. “It requires a comprehensive response that includes mental health and social service professionals, who are best able to help New Yorkers in need. That is why today’s newly-announced initiative to assist unsheltered individuals in the city’s subway system is such an important step. Similar to the city-state program, called SCOUT, which has been a great success, I look forward to seeing comparable results for the PATH program.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES CLOSURE DATE OF RANDALL’S ISLAND HUMANITARIAN EMERGENCY RESPONSE AND RELIEF CENTER

Administration’s Asylum Seeker Management Strategies Have Helped Lead to 14 Straight Weeks of Shelter Census Declines, $2 Billion in Savings

Following February 28 Closure, NYC Parks to Restore Underlying Athletic Fields and Adjacent Parkland

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced that the Humanitarian Emergency Response and Relief Center on Randall’s Island will close at the end of February. Thanks to the administration’s successful advocacy for executive orders at the border — which have significantly reduced the rate at which asylum seekers are arriving in New York City — and the administration’s successful asylum seeker management strategies — including reticketing, case management, and 30- and 60-day notices — the number of asylum seekers in city shelters has decreased for 14 straight weeks and is now at its lowest point in over a year. The city has already begun to decrease capacity at Randall’s Island, taking down the largest residential tent structure (which held more than 750 cots) and returning one of the athletic fields to eventual community use following restoration. Over the coming months, the city will continue to gradually reduce the population on-site. Following the site’s closure in February, the city will invest in restoring the remaining impacted athletic fields and parkland.

“We’re not out of the woods yet, but make no mistake, thanks in large part to our smart management strategies and successful advocacy, we have turned the corner on this crisis,” said Mayor Adams. “We’re not scrambling every day to open new shelters — we’re talking about closing them. We’re not talking about how much we’re spending — we’re talking about how much we’ve saved. And thanks to today’s announcement, in a few months, we’ll be talking about how much we’re investing in restoring Randall’s Island’s incredible fields and parks for community use. I want to thank the Randall’s Island Park Alliance and every New Yorker who has partnered with us to manage this unprecedented influx of asylum seekers and make sure that our newest arrivals have the same opportunity that we all have to pursue the American Dream.”

“From the onset of this crisis, our primary objective as a city has been to respond compassionately and effectively to this humanitarian challenge. The ability to decompress the Randall’s Island humanitarian relief center over the summer and planned decommissioning of this site in the coming months demonstrates the effectiveness of our asylum seeker management strategies,” said Chief of Staff Camille Joseph Varlack. “We extend our gratitude to the Randall’s Island Park Alliance for their partnership and support regarding this site.”

“Since the spring of 2022, we have had nearly a quarter million people come through our system in New York City,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “Roughly seven in 10 of those seeking asylum have moved on to the next part of their journey, and today’s announcement is another step on our path through our humanitarian response. With 14 straight weeks of lower numbers of new arrivals seeking asylum, we are now able to transition from this large humanitarian relief center, which is a step in the right direction. Thank you to the teams that have been and continue to work as part of our humanitarian response. We look forward to additional steps in this next phase as they are appropriate given the need.”

“The ability to close the Randall’s Island humanitarian relief center marks the latest milestone we have reached as an administration addressing this humanitarian crisis,” said Mayor’s Office of Asylum Seeker Operations Molly Schaeffer. “It serves as a testament to the tireless effort of our teams and the commitment of community-based partners that have stepped up to help meet the needs of the over 218,000 individuals who have received services since the spring of 2022 — 70 percent of whom have moved on to the next steps in their journeys. New York City continues to lead in this unprecedented response, and this news helps show the world the tremendous progress we have made — and continue to make — every day. “

Since the first buses of asylum seekers arrived in 2022, New York City has continued to focus on building the structures needed to help migrants take their next steps towards self-sufficiency. The city’s Asylum Application Help Center — a first-in-the-nation entity — has helped complete more than 72,000 applications for work authorization, temporary protected status, and asylum. The city has also purchased 47,000 tickets to help migrants reach their preferred destinations and help reduce long-term costs for New York City taxpayers. Staff have also conducted over 630,000 case management sessions with migrants dedicated to helping them identify self-sufficient pathways out of city shelter, in addition to implementing the city’s 30- and 60-day notice policies. As a result, more than 158,000 migrants who requested services from the city have taken their next steps in their journeys towards self-sufficiency.

MAYOR ADAMS EXPANDS FREE PROGRAM TO REPLACE PRIVATE LEAD WATER LINES IN LOW-INCOME NEIGHBORHOODS

$48 Million Program Will Help Property Owners in Low-Income Neighborhoods Save $10,000 or
More on Replacement Costs New York City’s Water Continues to Meet, Exceed All Safety Standards

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today expanded a free program to replace privately-owned water service lines made of lead or galvanized steel at eligible properties in the Bronx and Queens. The program is focused on homeowners who live in environmental justice communities with high concentrations of lead service lines and a median household income of less than $47,600. The work is being done thanks to a total of $48 million in grants and interest-free loans funded in part by the Biden-Harris administration’s federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which earmarked $15 billion to be used nationally for lead service line replacements, and in part by New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s state loan forgiveness program.

“New York City’s drinking water continues to be safe, clean, and delicious,” said Mayor Adams. “With this expanded program, we’re helping thousands of homeowners in low-income neighborhoods afford important infrastructure work that will do even more to prevent lead exposure. And outside of this program, we will continue to test, filter, and treat our water supply to keep all New Yorkers safe and well-hydrated.”

“New York has some of the best, safest, cleanest water in the world. Now, thanks to a $48 million grant from the Biden-Harris administration and our Federal Infrastructure Funding task force’s ongoing work, thousands of homeowners in lower-income areas who need to replace individual old lead lines can do so — and cost will not be an obstacle.” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “This program represents the very best of government collaboration in service of our city. Thank you to everyone who made it happen.”

“In recent years, we’ve made strides in reducing lead exposure levels in a variety of settings across the city, and today’s announcement adds to that effort,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “Through a homeowner grant program, we’re providing a path by which important privately-owned infrastructure can be updated, especially for those families and communities most in need of support. Thank you to the interagency teams making this work happen as we work as an administration to keep our communities safe, healthy, and thriving.”

“There is no more important mission than keeping New Yorkers and our water supply safe,” said New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner and New York City Chief Climate Officer Rohit T. Aggarwala. “Our water is lead free, but lead in homeowners’ pipes and service lines can introduce lead into drinking water. We’re pleased to make use of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s funding to help New Yorkers by replacing their lead service lines, and we are grateful to the Biden-Harris administration, Congress, the EPA, and New York state for making this funding available.”

“New York City tap water is the healthiest, lowest-cost beverage around,” said New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Commissioner Ashwin Vasan. “Replacing outdated private water service lines will ensure New Yorkers continue to have access to the very best possible tap water now, and for years to come.”

“Eliminating lead service lines is a critical health issue for our children’s development, and DDC is very pleased to help as part of its water main replacement program for DEP,” said New York City Department of Design and Construction (DDC) Commissioner Thomas Foley. “The pilot projects that we’re beginning soon should replace approximately 280 lead service lines, though we may find more once we excavate the street. Doing this work while the street is already being worked on for water main replacement is a very efficient method that will save homeowners time and money.”

“Our commitment to a lead-free New York City means ensuring that no New Yorker is left vulnerable to lead contamination,” said Mayor’s Office of Risk Management and Compliance Director and Citywide Lead Compliance Officer Jean-Claude LeBec. “While our water remains safe and delicious, this initiative is a vital investment in ensuring that the city’s communities in need receive the infrastructure improvements they deserve. Eliminating lead poisoning for all New Yorkers requires an all-hands-on-deck approach, and we are grateful to our federal partners for providing the city with another powerful tool to eliminate lead risks in our most vulnerable communities.”

“Lead in drinking water irreparably harms the health of children and disproportionately impacts lower-income communities and communities of color,” said United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia.  “The city’s work to help families replace lead pipes goes hand in hand with EPA’s new rule that will help protect millions of children from exposure to harmful lead in drinking water.”

“Under the leadership of Governor Kathy Hochul, New York state has made historic investments to reduce exposure to lead in drinking water, which poses a clear threat to public health,” said New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald. “Most recently, New York state provided New York City with $28 million that will help support these projects announced today and replace lead service lines in historically underserved neighborhoods. We look forward to working with the city of New York, along with our federal, state, and local partners, to protect the health of our communities by ensuring that clean drinking water is available for generations to come.”

water line

Diagram of water lines. Credit: DEP

Water service lines connect directly to the city’s water mains, and property owners are responsible for the maintenance of their property’s service lines. Service line replacements can typically cost more than $10,000. Eligible residents in the Bronx have already begun receiving letters in the mail with more information on how they can enroll in the program, and replacement work has already begun in the Bronx for some properties this year. Residents in Queens will start to receive letters next year. Only homeowners who are contacted by DEP may participate in the program.

The lead service line replacement program builds on a successful pilot program that DEP completed in 2022, where approximately 600 privately-owned lead service lines were replaced in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island at no cost to property owners. The city will also offer to replace privately-owned lead service lines while completing work on city-owned water mains in the street through DEP water main replacement and emergency construction projects, as well as DDC pilot projects. DDC and its contractors will begin offering free service line replacements to eligible properties in select locations this fall.

New York City’s water is delivered lead-free and meets or exceeds federal and state health standards. However, any lead within privately-owned service lines and household plumbing could increase the risk of exposure to lead through drinking water. Lead can cause serious health problems, particularly for young children and pregnant women. New York City has taken extensive steps to protect the water in homes that may have lead in their plumbing. This includes using safe-to-drink additives in water that raises pH levels, reducing corrosion of household plumbing, and creating a protective film on pipes that reduces the release of metals, such as lead, from service lines and household plumbing.

“There is nothing more important than keeping New Yorkers’ drinking water safe from toxic lead, and I am proud to have supported vital funds in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law — the largest federal investment solely dedicated to getting toxic lead pipes out of our communities — to protect children, public health and boost family-sustaining union jobs,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “We know from Flint that lead pipes can be detrimental to community health, and we must move expeditiously to remove and replace these pipes. For years, I have been a staunch advocate for increased testing and elimination of lead pipes from our homes, schools, and water systems. I am proud to deliver this critical funding to supercharge these efforts and support the city’s free program to ensure New Yorkers have clean and safe water.”

“Ensuring lead-free clean water resources is vital to residents in my district and throughout New York City,” said Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13). “I am appreciative of this latest effort by Mayor Adams and the New York City Mayor’s Office to replace privately-owned lead service lines in the Bronx and surrounding areas to ensure clean water for all residents, regardless of their income.”

“Eliminating lead pipes is one of the wisest investments there is. Studies find that every dollar spent to remove lead pipes produces as much as $450 in benefits from improved health, less spending on social services, and increased economic activity,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Reduced lead pollution may cut crime by up to 20 percent. Lead can damage every organ in the body and cause aggressive behavior that leads to crime. I am proud of my work to tackle lead pollution, passing legislation authorizing municipalities to issue bonds to finance pipe replacements. Today we make even more progress with our historic $48 million in grants and interest free loans. The program targets low-income homes in Queens and the Bronx, making sure the people most affected by pollution can afford to replace pipes. Together, we will continue doing everything we can until we get the lead out for good.”

“The City of New York’s expansion of this critical program to replace lead water lines is a major win for the Bronx and Queens, especially for our low-income tenants and homeowners,” said New York State Assemblymember Yudelka Tapia. “Lead exposure remains a significant public health concern, particularly in areas like the Bronx. Studies have shown that children in the Bronx are at higher risk of elevated blood lead levels compared to other parts of the city, leading to long-term health impacts. Every family deserves access to clean, safe drinking water, and this $48 million investment, backed by the Biden-Harris administration, ensures just that. This initiative will not only protect public health but also provide financial relief to those most in need, reaffirming our city’s commitment to environmental justice and equity.”

“Lead pipes should not be a part of our water supply, so I am thrilled this federally-funded program to replace privately-owned lead water lines will be available to so many Queens homeowners,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “I am especially pleased that this program will assist homeowners in neighborhoods that have traditionally been underinvested in. This program is another example of the Biden-Harris administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law having a real, positive impact on people’s lives.”

MAYOR ADAMS, SPEAKER ADAMS ANNOUNCE NEW ENFORCEMENT POWERS TO PREVENT SALE OF DANGEROUS, UNCERTIFIED LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES AND BATTERY-POWERED MICROMOBILITY DEVICES

Strengthened Regulations Now Allow City to Shut Down Repeat Violators Who Prioritize Profits Over Public Safety

Officials Remind New Yorkers to Only Purchase Certified Batteries and Devices

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) Commissioner Vilda Vera Mayuga, and the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) Commissioner Robert S. Tucker today announced expanded regulations to protect New Yorkers from the dangers of uncertified lithium-ion batteries. Through Local Laws 49 and 50 of 2024 — sponsored by New York City Councilmember Gale Brewer — that recently took effect, the city now has the authority to padlock — or close — any brick-and-mortar retailer that repeatedly violates the city’s regulations on the sale of uncertified batteries and battery-powered micromobility devices. Local Law 39, which originally took effect in September 2023, mandates that all battery-powered micromobility devices — including electric bicycles, electric scooters, and the batteries those devices use — must be certified to accredited lab safety standards as set forth by local law to be sold or rented in New York City.

“The data is clear: Unsafe, uncertified batteries pose a real threat to New Yorkers and their property, and this administration will continue to do everything that it can to enforce the law to keep residents safe,” said Mayor Adams. “We know that e-micromobility is a critical tool that many New Yorkers use for work and pleasure. But the fact of the matter is that the fires and deaths caused by these devices are preventable and we need everyone to play their part in ensuring their safety, and the safety of their families, their neighbors, and our first responders. We thank our partners in government for collaborating on this important public safety issue as we work to keep micromobility devices safe for everyone.”

“Lithium-ion batteries pose significant fire risks, and have caused deadly fires across our city, making it critical that we do our part in mitigating preventable death and injury,” said Speaker Adams. “As battery-powered devices such as e-bikes become a mainstay in New York City, especially relied on by delivery workers, the New York City Council continues to work with the administration to ensure those who use these micromobility devices can do so safely and responsibly. The New York City Council has passed multiple laws regulating the licensing and sales of lithium-ion batteries, delivering safety to our neighborhood. I thank our partners in government for their work to enact these laws because we must work together to promote the safety of all New Yorkers.”

“We are committed to protecting consumers and building a culture of compliance among our local businesses, but we need retailers to understand that this is an urgent safety issue, and we will not hesitate to use all of the tools in our toolbox to protect our neighbors,” said DCWP Commissioner Vera Mayuga. “Thank you to our partners at FDNY for their continued collaboration and for their advocacy at the federal level for a national fix to ensure these unsafe devices can’t enter our city.”

“Recklessly, repeatedly selling uncertified lithium-ion batteries is criminal, and a critical threat to public safety,” said FDNY Commissioner Tucker. “We thank the mayor and our partners at DCWP for their leadership on this issue. We will continue to use all means possible to seek out the bad actors and ensure the safety of New Yorkers against the threat of these uncertified batteries.”

“The dangers associated with poorly manufactured lithium-ion batteries are clear, which is why the city must consider all enforcement options to protect our fellow New Yorkers,” said New York City Department of Buildings Commissioner James Oddo. “This administration has been making significant progress advancing building and fire safety in the five boroughs, from setting up a new proactive inspection program for structurally unsafe buildings to taking real action to get dangerous uncertified e-bike batteries out of our homes. This latest announcement sends a message that we aren’t going to allow unscrupulous business owners to continue endangering residents, their neighbors, or our first responders.”

In January 2024, the Adams administration testified before the New York City Council Committee on Consumer and Worker Protection in support of legislation to strengthen and expand enforcement capabilities outlined in Local Law 39 of 2023. Local Laws 49 and 50 are a result of the ongoing collaborative efforts to curb lithium-ion battery fires between the Council and the administration, and give the FDNY concurrent authority to also enforce the certification law. In addition to the authority to close repeat violators, the maximum penalty for violating the certification requirements will increase to as much as $2,000 per device type. The new laws also require retailers — including those online — to publicly display the city’s new fire safety disclosure sign to help consumers understand certification and how to safely store and charge battery-powered micromobility devices. The safety disclosure sign, which is available in multiple languages, will also be distributed to educate consumers. The law additionally mandates that online retailers must post certification information on the product page.

DCWP and FDNY have partnered to conduct joint inspections to ensure compliance with the law and make sure that batteries and devices are being safely charged. FDNY’s E-Safety Task Force — which has inspected businesses to ensure safe charging since 2022 — has conducted 983 inspections, issued 782 summonses, including 77 criminal summonses, 367 violation orders, and 20 vacate orders with the DOB.

Since Local Law 39 of 2023 went into effect on September 16, 2023, DCWP has conducted more than 650 inspections and issued more than 275 violations to local brick-and-mortar retailers, both independently and in conjunction with FDNY’s E-Safety Task Force and issued 40 cease-and-desist letters and more than 25 violations to online retailers.

The city urges New Yorkers to only purchase certified battery-powered mobility devices and batteries. Businesses that sell batteries or battery-powered micromobility devices must ensure they are certified and display the certification, logo, or name of the testing laboratory on the device, packaging, or documentation that will be provided to consumers at the time of sale. Those who own micromobility devices should charge and store them outside where possible. Visit FDNY’s Safety Tips for a full list of fire safety tips related to lithium-ion batteries.

Under Local Law 39, all devices and batteries must be certified by an accredited testing laboratory in compliance with Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL) standards if they are being sold, leased second-hand, or rented:

Electric bicycles must be certified in compliance with UL standard 2849.
Other battery-powered mobility devices, like electric scooters, must be certified in compliance with UL standard 2272.
Batteries must be certified in compliance with UL standard 2271.

Since last September, DCWP has conducted multiple rounds of outreach to disseminate educational information about the local laws to more than 500 local brick-and-mortar and online retailers. DCWP provides retailers with a checklist of legal requirements in order to help them avoid violations and comply with the law. DCWP also offers a list of Accredited Testing Laboratories with their logos to help retailers and consumers identify certified devices.

This effort is a component of the Adams administration’s “Charge Safe, Ride Safe: New York City’s Electric Micromobility Action Plan” that encourages safe use of micromobility through innovative pilot programs and the use of new technologies to improve safety, expanded education and outreach, and updated infrastructure and policies like new bike lane designs and public charging options.

“I am proud to be the primary sponsor of Local Law 49 and Local Law 50,” said New York City Councilmember Gale A. Brewer. “Cities across America are grappling with lithium-ion battery fires, and the absence of federal oversight means the city must continue to lead on the regulation of sales and uses. Some of the most hazardous environments are e-bike shops, where many lithium-ion batteries are stored and charged at once. Thank you DCWP and FDNY for collaborating with the New York City Council to keep New Yorkers safe.”

“I fully support this city’s initiative to expand regulations to continue to protect New Yorkers from the dangers of uncertified lithium-ion batteries,” said New York State Senator Cordell Cleare. “They have been the cause of dozens of fires. Sadly, some of them have been fatal. Three of my bills addressing this danger were signed into law by Governor Hochul. The new local laws expand our thoughtful, thorough, and collective action to minimize and mitigate the likelihood of new fires by increasing safety and awareness. The city is now able to shut down and lock repeatedly violating brick-and-mortar retailers selling uncertified batteries and battery-powered micro-mobility devices. This serves to protect the public from the proven dangers. Additionally, the new city law mandating that all battery-powered micro-mobility devices must be certified to accredited lab safety state-regulated standards adds an extra layer of security. Community members have reached out to us asking for increased regulations regarding these batteries and these laws aim to address their concerns.”

“I commend Mayor Adams and the New York City Council for taking decisive action to protect New Yorkers from the dangers posed by uncertified lithium-ion batteries,” said New York State Assemblymember Al Taylor. “This new regulation is a crucial step in ensuring public safety. In July, I proudly shared that Governor Hochul signed my bill, A09337, into law, which requires the state fire administrator to establish specialized hazardous materials emergency response training for incidents involving these batteries. Together, we are working to create a safer environment for our communities by addressing the risks associated with lithium-ion technology. I urge all New Yorkers to prioritize certified batteries and devices to safeguard themselves and their loved ones.”

“We are doing everything we can to end the scourge of lithium-ion battery fires. Last year alone, there were 268 battery fires, taking 18 precious lives and injuring another 150,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “In Albany, I authored and introduced Priscilla’s Law to require state licensing of e-vehicles and inspection of e-vehicle batteries. The New York City Council is doing its part, passing Local Laws 49 and 50 authorizing the city to padlock shops selling uncertified batteries, much like the SMOKEOUT Act I passed authorized padlocking shops selling unregulated cannabis. These new enforcement powers will allow us to stop a repeat of HQ E-Bike Repair, a shop that remained open after being cited for violations, only to have a fire that killed four people. With the right tools, together we will end lithium-ion battery fires once and for all.”

“Every year, far too many New Yorkers experience devastating tragedy as a result of uncertified lithium-ion batteries,” said New York City Councilmember Joann Ariola. “These new regulations will help to protect the people of this city from these devices and are steps towards ensuring that no one in the future needs to suffer again because of a lithium-ion battery fire.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES COMPLETION OF ROLL-OUT OF FIRST-EVER NO-COST, PAIN-FREE CITYWIDE CURBSIDE COMPOSTING PROGRAM

Hundreds of Millions of Pounds of Household Waste Now Eligible for Beneficial Reuse, Either as Soil or Renewable Energy

Fulfils Adams’ 2023 State of the City Commitment

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) Commissioner Jessica Tisch today announced the completion of the roll-out of automatic, guaranteed, free, simple, weekly collection of compostable material to every New Yorker across the five boroughs. When trucks left DSNY garages serving the Bronx, Staten Island, and Manhattan just after 5:00 AM today, they were making good on a promise that the past administration had made for over a decade. That promise was long derided as impossible, but that Mayor Adams committed to making it a reality in his 2023 State of the City address. This program, which began in Queens in the fall of 2022 and expanded to Brooklyn in the fall of 2023, is now permanent and offered citywide — something achieved with a focus on sustainability, cleanliness, equity, and efficiency.

“It’s simple: when food scraps end up in black bags on the street, they become rat food or methane emissions. said Mayor Adams. “Starting today, curbside composting is free and pain-free on every block and in every borough — something prior administrations have tried, but we got it done. I’m grateful to Commissioner Tisch and the dedicated sanitation workers who work day-in, day-out to make this program possible and keep our streets clean for New Yorkers.”

“We are waging a war against climate change. Our weapons are your banana peels, rotten tomatoes, and stale bread,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “Now, in all five boroughs, our easy-to-use curbside organics collection program will prevent these scraps from being shipped to emissions producing landfills, and instead turn them into compost and renewable energy.”

“Curbside composting programs have existed in the city for over a decade, but none have ever served more than 40 percent of New Yorkers — until now,” said DSNY Commissioner Tisch. “This administration has achieved the long-standing goal of bringing composting to every corner of the five boroughs, not as a niche program, but as a free, universal, easy-to-use service — one that will divert record amounts of material from landfills. We’re protecting the environment, fighting rats, and bringing equity to the city at large.”

While curbside composting programs have existed in New York City for the last decade, none have ever served more than approximately 40 percent of the city. Those composting programs had been plagued by stops and starts and complicated rules. This program’s model — no sign-up required, , fewer restrictions on material and on type of bin — is a model that can work for all New Yorkers. Every New Yorker can now simply take anything from their kitchen or their garden — all food scraps, yard waste, and food-soiled paper — and set it out for collection in either a DSNY brown bin or their own labeled, lidded bin of 55 gallons or less. In addition, they may choose to line the bin with a clear bag or not, based entirely on their personal preference. This material is collected on the same day that residents already set out their metal, glass, plastic, and paper recycling.

Since their initial launch in New York City’s easy-to-use composting programs have proven to be highly effective. The Fiscal Year 2024 Mayor’s Management Report showed a 65 percent increase in compostable material diverted from landfills over the prior two years — a staggering total of 260 million pounds. The overall diversion rate — the total amount of material kept out of landfills and either processed into compost or waste-to-energy facilities — has increased for the last three consecutive years.

Curbside service is only one part of the wraparound suite of composting services offered by DSNY. New York City is now home to approximately 400 Smart Composting Bins — 24-hour drop-off sites where New Yorkers can bring anything from their kitchen and anything from their garden to be put to beneficial reuse. New Yorkers opened Smart Composting Bins over 1 million times this past fiscal year — a 300 percent increase from the previous year. Earlier this year, Mayor Adams fulfilled a campaign promise by bringing DSNY collection of compostable material to every single New York City public school, helping to train the next generation of composters.

Material collected through these programs is turned into either renewable energy to heat homes or into compost sold to landscapers and given away free to New Yorkers for use in their yards and gardens. Without these programs, these materials would all go into a landfill, becoming nothing but harmful greenhouse gasses. The DSNY Staten Island Compost Facility has produced approximately 40 million pounds of finished compost per year for the last decade. Under the Adams administration, that facility recently completed a major expansion, expanding its capacity to process food waste by 2,000 percent ahead of today’s announcement.

Per local law passed by the City Council, participation in this program becomes mandatory in each borough when service starts, but fines cannot be written until April 2025. The fine structure is the same as the existing requirements for the separation of metal, glass, plastic, and paper recyclables from trash, which starts at $25 for properties with one to eight residential units and $100 for properties with nine or more residential units. This is the exact same separation requirement New Yorkers already know from recycling programs, now extended to the one-third of residential waste that is compostable.

Ahead of the mandate going into effect, DSNY is engaged in a major outreach effort, sending mailings to all covered residents, meeting with community boards and civic associations, and knocking on the doors of all buildings with fewer than 10 residential units in the Bronx, Staten Island, and Manhattan. A similarly robust outreach effort previously proved effective in Queens and Brooklyn.

While this program is for residential waste only, New York City’s commercial waste zone program will also increase commercial diversion of compostable material. Under this program, businesses will pay their private waste carter less to remove compostable material than they do to remove trash, creating a meaningful financial incentive to keep commercial compostable material out of landfills.

“A citywide curbside organics collection program is vital to creating a true circular economy in New York City,” said New York City Chief Climate Officer and New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala. “Instead of simply discarding our organic waste, we are recovering energy and nutrients from this material at facilities like DEP’s Newtown Creek Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility and DSNY’s Staten Island Compost Facility. This sustainable cycle of reuse creates valuable products, including compost and renewable energy, like biogas, which can be used to heat homes. This process has proven to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including methane. Through the end of June 2024, DEP processed approximately 330,000 wet tons of food scraps at Newtown Creek that would have otherwise ended up in a landfill and emitted harmful greenhouse gases. I want to thank Mayor Adams and DSNY Commissioner Tisch for their commitment to making curbside organics collection available to all New Yorkers.”

“This roll out is the city achieving another one of our PlaNYC goals, and an important step towards improving our environment,” said Mayor’s Office of Climate and Environmental Justice Executive Director Elijah Hutchinson. “This diversion will reduce the amount of solid waste generated within the city, the majority of which is currently processed and transferred in a handful of over-burdened environmental justice communities.”

“Today we have reached our goal of implementing curbside composting citywide, allowing us to divert from landfills and compost all 1 million tons of organic household waste New York City produces annually,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “This is a critical component for a sustainable future: compostable waste accounts for 34 percent of our residential waste, and 20 percent of our greenhouse gas emissions. With curbside composting now in all five boroughs, we will reach our goal of reducing food-based emissions 33 percent by 2030. Diverting organic waste will also deprive the rodent population of food, bringing us closer to victory in the War on Rats. Together, we will forge a path to a sustainable, zero waste, and rat-free future.”

“Curbside composting is officially available all over New York City. This is a pivotal step forward in the fight against climate change and also towards the future of our city,” said New York City Councilmember Shaun Abreu. “The more people participate, the less money we’ll waste sending food scraps to rot in landfills as far as South Carolina and Ohio. Best of all, we can put more compost right back into our community gardens, parks, and tree beds to protect and grow our green spaces.”

MAYOR ADAMS LOWERS CITY FLAGS TO HALF-STAFF, ANNOUNCES CITY HALL, MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS TO BE LIT YELLOW TO MARK ONE YEAR SINCE HAMAS TERROR ATTACKS IN ISRAEL

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced that city flags have been lowered to half-staff, and City Hall and other municipal buildings will be lit yellow this evening, in remembrance of one year since the horrific terror attacks perpetrated by Hamas in Israel on October 7^th, as well as in advocacy for the safe return of hostages still held captive by Hamas.

“One year ago today, people of all faiths and creeds gathered at the Nova Music Festival in Israel to sing songs of peace and coexistence. With the brutal murder of more than 1,200 innocent men, women, and children by cowardly terrorists, a part of all of us died that day. Hundreds more were taken hostage in the aftermath, and many still remain in captivity today,” said Mayor Adams. “And as we see the devastation wrought on innocent people in the Middle East in the aftermath of this unprovoked attack, the thought of peace becomes even more distant. But that is exactly why we must continue to strive for peace — for the safe return of all of the hostages, for the defeat of Hamas, and for an end to this deadly conflict. To those who plan to use this day to peacefully protest, that is your right. As you do so, remember to follow the law and I ask you to please hold a place in your hearts for those who lost everything a year ago today.”

Ahead of the Jewish High Holidays and the one year mark of the October 7^th attacks, Mayor Adams and senior New York City Police Department (NYPD) leaders briefed New Yorkers last week on preparations implemented in anticipation of increased protest activity. Mayor Adams will join NYPD officers today to thank officers assigned to the October 7^th protest detail. He will also reiterate the importance of protecting not only New Yorker’s right to protest, but people of all faiths who wish to live and worship in freedom and security. Later today, Mayor Adams will attend the one-year commemoration of the October 7^th terrorist attacks being held by United Jewish Appeal and the Jewish Community Relations Council.

In addition to City Hall, the following city buildings will be lit up yellow tonight:

Bronx County Courthouse: 851 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY 10451
Brooklyn Borough Hall: 209 Joralemon St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
The David N. Dinkins Manhattan Municipal Building: 1 Centre Street, New York, NY 10007
Queens Borough Hall: 120-55 Queens Blvd, Kew Gardens, NY 11424
Staten Island Borough Hall: 10 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island, NY 10301

Dear Fellow New Yorker,

This past week, Mayor Adams hosted a community celebration welcoming our Eastern European communities to Gracie Mansion. We are proud to celebrate all their accomplishments and contributions to our city!

Mayor Adams also held a roundtable with community leaders on the West Indian Day parade and J’ouvert. It was an opportunity to sit down with them to discuss ways to keep these cultural celebrations strong and safe.

This past weekend, Mayor Adams marched in the German-American Steuben Parade on Fifth Avenue in celebration of German heritage, culture, and achievement in our city.

Finally, as part of Mayor Adams’ Five-Borough Multifaith Tour, CAU and senior members of the administration met with clergy and prominent leaders from the faith community in Queens to discuss and address their concerns. Please join us for the next series of conversations that will take place in Manhattan on October 30, 2024, by RSVPing here.

For the latest updates, please follow CAU on Twitter and Facebook, and be sure to check out the Mayor’s “Week In Review” video below.

All the best,

Fred Kreizman

Commissioner, Community Affairs Unit

Office of the Mayor

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Hear Directly From The Mayor

New Yorkers can sign up to listen to the Get Stuff Done-Cast updates and hear directly from Mayor Adams about exclusive updates, major policies and initiatives, and local events.

“Money in Your Pocket” is a new initiative to promote Benefits Access to New Yorkers. Please visit on.nyc.gov/MoneyInYourPocket for additional information.

Recruit Volunteers this Hunger Action Month

During this Hunger Action Month, NYC Service is focused on connecting volunteers and resources to community-based organizations that are at the forefront of eliminating hunger in New York City. Their website is a FREE online portal with visibility to over 7,000 registered volunteers. We invite your organization to join this effort. Here’s how:

Post your volunteer opportunities, making sure “Eliminate Hunger” is the selected impact area.

Create “In-Kind Donation Lists” for non-cash items that are needed to support your initiatives. This may include canned food, pasta, rice, or unused food containers.

HPD Invites You to Join Housing Information Classes– Now with Translation!

Housing Information Classes covers all the housing questions you have. Presented by the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) in partnership with

NYC Public Schools’ Parent University.

Learn from experts about all the housing resources you can access for free.

Upcoming Classes Schedule:

Sept 25 at 6pm – Tenants: Know Your Rights – REGISTER HERE

Sept 30 at 6pm – NYC Housing Connect: The Affordable Housing Lottery – REGISTER HERE

Oct 1 at 12pm – Housing Court: What to Expect – REGISTER HERE

Oct 8 at 6pm – Rental Housing Discrimination and Harassment – REGISTER HERE

Oct 10 at 12pm – Owning a Home in NYC – REGISTER HERE

Oct 15 at 12pm – Financial Empowerment – Credit, Debt, Savings, and Every Money Question About Housing– REGISTER HERE

In case you missed it:

.@mayorsCAU Brooklyn Borough Director was delighted to join the Prospect Park Alliance for the Prospect Park Woodland Tour along with Turnstile Tours. @prospect_park pic.twitter.com/detvBBkGK2

— Mayor’s Community Affairs Unit (@mayorsCAU) September 23, 2024

.@mayorsCAU Muslim Women Liaison attended the Eid Millad ul Nabi event at Ashiyana Social Adult Centre organised by Bazm-e-Sanaa Mustafa Foundation. pic.twitter.com/CrmztnV0Rm

— Mayor’s Community Affairs Unit (@mayorsCAU) September 18, 2024

Highlights From the City Hall Press Office:

Adams Administration Kicks off Climate Week by Winning $260 Million in Federal Grants to Modernize Brooklyn Marine Terminal, Construct Greenway on 10th Avenue in Inwood

Mayor Eric Adams kicked off Climate Week by announcing his administration has won another $260 million in grants from the Biden-Harris administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, continuing the Adams administration’s unprecedented success in securing federal infrastructure funding. The grants — issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation — will support key infrastructure projects in New York City, including transforming the Brooklyn Marine Terminal into a modern, 21st-century maritime port and vibrant mixed-use community hub, as well as constructing a segment of the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway along 10th Avenue in Inwood.

Mayor Adams Announces key Milestones and Strategies to Improve Crucial 911 Mental Health Crisis Response Initiative

Mayor Eric Adams released new data showing the milestone achievements of the Behavioral Health Emergency Assistance Response Division (B-HEARD), New York City’s health-centered response to 911 mental health calls. Over Fiscal Year (FY) 2024, B-HEARD teams responded to 14,900 calls, which accounts for 73 percent of all eligible mental health calls in the pilot area during the program’s operation hours. The FY24 figure is more than double the previous fiscal year’s responses when teams responded to almost 7,200 calls, which comprised approximately 55 percent of eligible calls. In total, B-HEARD teams have responded to over 24,000 mental health 911 calls since launching in spring of 2021.

Ghosts Busters: Mayor Adams Launches New DSNY/NYPD Ghost Car Task Force to Remove Illegal Cars From NYC Streets

Mayor Eric Adams announced a new interagency task force that will help remove illegal “ghost cars” — cars that are virtually untraceable by traffic cameras and toll readers because of their forged or altered license plates — from parking spaces on city streets. As of last week, 15 uniformed members of service of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) will be assigned strictly to parked ghost car removal, under the direction of the New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY). The task force began regular operations on September 10th, and over the first five nights of operations alone removed 295 ghost cars, freeing up space for New Yorkers who follow safety and regulatory requirements.

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES THE INTENTION TO NOMINATE MURIEL GOODE-TRUFANT TO SERVE AS NEW YORK CITY’S CORPORATION COUNSEL

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced his intention to nominate Muriel Goode-Trufant as the city’s next corporation counsel. Goode-Trufant is a longtime public servant, having spent more than 30 years in the New York City Department of Law, where she has served as acting corporation counsel since this summer. As corporation counsel, Goode-Trufant will lead the New York City Department of Law, which is primarily responsible for providing legal representation to the City of New York — for the Mayor’s Office, the Public Advocate’s Office, the Comptroller’s Office, city agencies, and the City Council — in all affirmative and defensive civil litigation.

“I am excited to announce my intention to nominate of Muriel Goode-Trufant as New York City’s next corporation counsel,” said Mayor Adams. “Muriel’s record speaks for itself — a dedicated public servant with more than 30 years of experience at the Law Department, a recipient of the agency’s highest honor, and a lawyer who has fought for equity and justice. As our next corporation counsel, Muriel is prepared to serve our entire municipal government and use the full power of our legal system to lead our city forward.”

“I am humbled and honored by the intention to be nominated by Mayor Adams to serve as the city’s next corporation counsel,” said New York City Corporation Counsel Nominee Muriel Goode-Trufant. “Through my more than three decades as an attorney at the New York City Law Department, I am keenly aware of the vital role the corporation counsel plays in New York City government.”

Muriel Goode-Trufant will replace Judge Sylvia Hinds-Radix, who stepped down from her post at the end of May. Judge Hinds-Radix led the Department of Law since January 2022.

About Muriel Goode-Trufant

Muriel Goode-Trufant began her career at the New York City Department of Law in 1991 as an attorney in the General Litigation Division where she held numerous roles, including assistant chief of the division. She later became the agency’s Equal Employment Opportunity officer and rose to the position of chief in the Special Federal Litigation Division.

Goode-Trufant became the Law Department’s managing attorney in 2015 and first assistant corporation counsel in 2023.

Before working for the city, she was an associate at the Philadelphia law firm Cohen, Shapiro, Polisher, Shiekman and Cohen.

Goode-Trufant has won numerous legal awards, including the Law Department’s highest honor, the Corporation Counsel’s Award for Distinguished Legal Service, in 2011.

Goode-Trufant is a graduate of Temple University School of Law and the University of Pennsylvania.

Under the City Charter, the nominee for corporation counsel must be confirmed by the City Council.

RECOGNIZING ADAMS ADMINISTRATION’S STRONG FISCAL MANAGEMENT, LEADING CREDIT RATING AGENCIES AFFIRM NEW YORK CITY’S STRONG FINANCIAL STANDING AND STABILITY

Four Internationally-Recognized, Independent Credit Rating Agencies — Moody’s, S&P, Fitch,
and Kroll — Indicate Strong Confidence in City’s Stability, Resilience, and Fiscal Outlook

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today highlighted recent affirmations of the city’s bond ratings based upon strong fiscal management by four internationally-recognized, independent credit rating agencies — Moody’s Ratings, S&P Global Ratings, Fitch Ratings, and Kroll Bond Rating Agency (KBRA). All four rating agencies assigned strong ratings in the double-A category and stable outlooks to the City of New York’s upcoming sale of $1.5 billion of General Obligation Bonds, which includes the city’s third issuance of Social Bonds reflecting New York City’s strong post-pandemic economic recovery, including record-high employment, steady tax revenue growth, and a rebound in tourism.

Through disciplined and strong fiscal management, the Adams administration has consistently achieved high bond ratings that have been either upgraded or maintained. These affirmations are the ninth consecutive time that the city’s General Obligation bond ratings have been affirmed by all four agencies at current levels. Further, Fitch Ratings revised the city’s outlook from stable to positive in May 2022 and upgraded the city’s credit rating from AA- to AA in February 2023.

“Our administration has done a remarkable job to stabilize our city’s finances and put us on a strong fiscal path,” said Mayor Adams. “Once again, the four internationally-recognized credit rating agencies are recognizing the prudent fiscal management we have implemented and how our administration has made the hard but smart decisions that will protect New Yorkers for years to come. Because of our leadership, we have record-high employment, a rebound of tourism, and a decline in crime. New Yorkers are better off today than they were when we took office two years ago, and as the credit agencies point out, there is tremendous reason to continue to be bullish on New York City.”

Maintaining a strong bond rating is an indication of the city’s financial strength and encourages continued investment in the city’s bonds, which help support funding to build and maintain schools, streets, parks, and other critical infrastructure that spans the five boroughs. Proceeds from the sale of the city’s social bonds will support the construction and development of over 4,300 more affordable housing units in New York City and continue to build on the administration’s efforts to build more homes across the five boroughs, through efforts such as, the “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity” proposal.

Moody’s Ratings highlights that the city has strong fiscal management, and, “[T]he Aa2 issuer rating reflects New York City’s post-pandemic economic recovery, including record-high private employment, positive trends in assessed property values despite commercial real estate challenges, steady tax revenue growth, and strong tourism metrics…Management of the city’s operations remains robust by its professional agency staffs.”

In its ratings report, S&P Global Ratings wrote “…we believe the city’s strong governance framework can help ensure ongoing operational stability. New York City’s credit profile is underpinned by its substantial and diverse economic base, with a population of 8.3 million…and its status as a globally recognized employment, financial, and tourism hub for the broader New York City metropolitan statistical area.” The report adds that, despite significant challenges, “…we believe the strength and resiliency of its economic and taxing base, and robust financial oversight and expenditure controls will continue to support balanced operating results and overall stability of its financial reserves, which helps position it to weather a shallower, but potentially more protracted, national economic slowdown.”

Fitch Ratings announced, “New York City’s ‘AA’ Long-Term IDR and GO bond ratings reflect New York City’s exceptionally strong budget monitoring and controls…[and] financial resilience assessment…Fitch expects the city to maintain its strong budget and fiscal management practices…”

KBRA identifies, “[T]he rating assignment and affirmation recognize the City of New York’s preeminent role as a domestic and international center of business, culture and tourism, the historic resiliency of its broad and diverse economic base, its elevated, yet manageable debt profile, management’s track record of fiscal discipline, and the efficacy of institutionalized procedures in confronting near-term financial challenges…KBRA acknowledges that city operations should continue unabated and further notes the considerable experience and stability of OMB and Comptroller’s Office professional staff responsible for the administration of city finances, debt management and budgeting.”

The credit ratings follow the July 2024 release of an on-time, balanced, and fiscally-responsible $112.4 billion Adopted Budget for Fiscal Year 2025 that invests in the future of New York City and addresses the three things that cost New Yorkers the most: housing, child care, and health care — and invests billions of dollars of city resources in critical areas, including early childhood education, cultural organizations, parks, public safety, transit, and more.

MAYOR ADAMS LAUNCHES FINAL PHASE OF HISTORIC PROJECT TO SECURE FUTURE OF NEW YORK CITY’S WATER SUPPLY

Decades-Long Planned $2 Billion Bypass Tunnel Project — 600 Feet Underground — Will Prevent 35 Million Gallons of Drinking Water Each Day from Leaking Upstate

Will Ensure Delaware Aqueduct Continues to Serve New Yorkers for Generations to Come

Use of Alternative Reservoirs May Cause Some Customers to Notice Subtle Differences in Taste or Aroma of Tap Water

Photos of Delaware Aqueduct Repair Project Available HERE

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Rohit Aggarwala today launched the final phase of DEP’s largest-ever infrastructure repair project — the $2 billion Delaware Aqueduct Repair Project. The project — planned and prepared for over more than two decades — will prevent 35 million gallons of drinking water from leaking into the ground in upstate New York every day. The project will ensure that the Delaware Aqueduct — the world’s longest tunnel of any kind — continues to bring New Yorkers the best drinking water in the world for generations to come.

Over the past 11 years, the city has been constructing a 2.5-mile bypass tunnel around a large leak near Newburgh and preparing to fix another leak in Ulster County; in this final phase, the city will connect the ends of that tunnel to the main aqueduct, seal off the leaking portion near Newburgh, and repair the leak under Ulster County.

“New York City’s tap water is the envy of the world — it’s why we have the best pizza and bagels in the country,” said Mayor Adams. “Today, we’re kicking off the final phase of a 11-year project to secure the future of our water supply and make sure that New Yorkers can continue to enjoy the billion gallons of drinking water we use every day. In order to fix the 35-million gallon per day leaks in the Delaware Aqueduct, we’ve built a 2.5-mile bypass tunnel, and over the course of the next several months, we’re going to connect that bypass tunnel to the main aqueduct as part of the largest repair project in DEP’s history. Some New Yorkers’ water might taste or smell slightly different for a few months while we complete this project as their water comes from a different reservoir, but New Yorkers should know it will still be perfectly safe to drink.”

“The world’s best water is the result of incredibly complex infrastructure — including the world’s longest tunnel. That takes real work to maintain,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “This heroic project, which took over 20 years to prepare for, shows the incredible ingenuity of New York’s civic employees who give their all every day to keep this city running.”

“Nearly 10 million New Yorkers count on us to provide them with high-quality water every single day of the year, without fail. We will continue to do that during this complex repair and will ensure we meet that essential mission for generations to come,” said DEP Commissioner Aggarwala. “Just like different brands of bottled water taste a bit different, so do our different reservoirs. While some residents may notice a temporary, subtle difference in taste or aroma during the repairs as we change our famous blend, our water remains clean and safe to drink.”

Delaware AqueductThe Delaware Aqueduct Bypass Tunnel. Credit: DEP

DEP manages New York City’s water supply, providing approximately 1.1 billion gallons of high-quality drinking water each day to nearly 10 million residents, including 8.3 million in New York City. The water is delivered from a watershed that extends more than 125 miles from the city, comprising 19 reservoirs and three controlled lakes. Approximately 7,000 miles of water mains, tunnels, and aqueducts bring water to homes and businesses throughout the five boroughs.

Throughout the repairs, DEP will rely upon the redundancy of its robust 19-reservoir system to continue to deliver clean, safe water at the levels its customers currently depend upon. Specifically, there will be increased amounts of drinking water coming from the Croton Watershed, a group of 12 reservoirs and three controlled lakes in Westchester and Putnam Counties, to feed New York City’s water supply. Thanks to DEP’s many redundant sources of water, and its interconnected set of aqueducts and water tunnels, there will be no impact on the amount of water being supplied to the city. As DEP does every day, the agency’s scientists and technicians will continuously monitor the water supply.

DEP also completed significant capital projects to prepare for this phase, including increasing the Catskill Aqueduct’s capacity, upgrading reservoirs across the watershed, and more.

Decades of extensive planning, robust system capacity and redundancies, and careful management and oversight of the project will ensure that New York City residents, and others who also rely upon the same water, continue to enjoy the world’s highest quality and best-tasting water.

New York’s different watersheds have different taste characteristics. As the Croton Watershed reservoirs are used more than usual for New York City while the aqueduct repairs are underway, some customers may notice subtle differences in the taste or aroma of their tap water, particularly those with refined or sensitive palates and senses of smell. The Croton Filtration Plant has been modified to use granular activated carbon, similar to what is used in household pitcher filters, during the project’s duration to help maintain the city’s legendarily clean, crisp-tasting drinking water.

About the Delaware Aqueduct

The 85-mile-long Delaware Aqueduct is an engineering marvel, delivering about 600 million gallons of water a day using only gravity, from four Catskill Mountain region reservoirs. The water is held in the Rondout Reservoir in Ulster County, then heads to West Branch Reservoir in Putnam County, the Kensico Reservoir in Westchester County, and, ultimately, ends up in the Hillview Reservoir in Yonkers, before entering the city’s distribution system. The Delaware Aqueduct was put into service in 1944 when New York City Mayor Fiorello H. La Guardia opened a set of emergency gates to channel the Rondout Creek directly into the new aqueduct. It is the longest tunnel of any kind in the world.

In 2010, New York City announced a $2 billion plan to repair the aqueduct by connecting a 2.5-mile-long bypass tunnel around a known leak discovered in the 1990s near Newburgh and to repair another leaking section of the aqueduct from the inside deep under the Ulster County town of Wawarsing. The new bypass, being connected 600 feet beneath the Hudson River is the first tunnel built under the Hudson River since 1957, when the south tube of the Lincoln Tunnel was completed. DEP engineers consider the bypass to be the most robust tunnel in the history of the trade.

Since 1992, DEP has continuously tested and monitored the leaks, which can release upwards of 35 million gallons per day. Nearly all the water escaping the leaks happens near the Hudson River in Newburgh. DEP has been working closely with Hudson Valley municipalities that rely on the Delaware Aqueduct for their water supplies, and with the U.S. Geological Survey to continually monitor groundwater levels in communities where the Delaware Aqueduct leaks are located.

Water Supply Map

Map of New York City’s water supply. Credit: DEP

“Just as water is essential to life, the Delaware Aqueduct is essential to the life of our City, carrying about half of our water supply,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “The aqueduct’s historic new $2 billion, 2.5 mile bypass tunnel will allow us to save 35 million gallons of water each day by rerouting it from a leaking portion. That is the equivalent of the entire water usage of West Palm Beach no longer going into the ground. I am proud of my work in Albany investing in our water infrastructure, and together we will ensure every New Yorker can enjoy our world class water.”

“The momentous work that has gone into this project will ensure the continuing supply of high-quality water to New Yorkers for decades,” said Former DEP Commissioner Vincent Sapienza (2017-2022). “Our water supply system is an engineering feat that made the city what is it today, and many thanks are due to Commissioner Aggarwala and the DEP team for progressing this mega public project to its final phase.”

“This bypass is a triumph of modern engineering and will ensure that New Yorkers continue to have access to the best drinking water in the world for generations to come,” said Former DEP Commissioner Caswell Holloway (2009-2011). “The long-term planning and painstaking execution of this project are a testament to DEP’s approach to projects like this that touch the city’s most sensitive infrastructure. Congratulations to everyone at DEP for reaching this critical milestone!”

“Finding a way to repair the leaks in the Delaware Aqueduct without disrupting New York City’s daily drinking water supply posed a tremendous challenge for DEP,” said Former DEP Commissioner Emily Lloyd (2005-08, 2014-16). “Although their work managing the city’s vast system of reservoirs and aqueducts is largely invisible on a daily basis, the completion of the Delaware bypass tunnel is a feat of engineering, planning, and construction that will serve the city well for decades to come.”

“Trying to deal with the most complex fix in DEP’s history — a tunnel leaking high pressure water buried in bedrock 600 feet below sea level — we knew any option we looked at was a moonshot at the time,” said Former DEP Commissioner Christopher Ward (2002-05). “This entire project has truly been a testament to the extraordinary caliber of talent working for the betterment of the greatest city in the world.”

MAYOR ADAMS LAUNCHES NEW PROGRAM MAYOR ADAMS, CHANCELLOR BANKS ANNOUNCE KEY UPDATES TO NEW YORK CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS’ APPLICATION PROCESS FOR MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL FAMILIES

Changes Will Remove Historic Limits on Families in Application Processes,

Allowing Families to Enroll in Middle Schools Citywide and List

Unlimited Number of Schools in High School Applications

New Application Tool Leverages Technology Built in Partnership with MIT, Giving Families More Information on Admissions Chances

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Public Schools Chancellor David C. Banks today announced a series of updates to the public-school application process, designed to expand access and student choice, as well as provide additional support to prospective high school students. Three key application changes will support families in navigating the admissions process, including removing district requirements for middle schools so families can apply citywide, permitting families to apply to an unlimited number of high schools, and leveraging technology to provide families with better information in making their application decisions. These updates come in response to engagements with a range of stakeholders, including parents, Community Education Council representatives, the chancellor’s Parent Advisory Council, advocates, researchers, and school leadership and staff on their feedback regarding admissions, as well as annual surveys with responses from over 5,000 families on the application process.

“Our administration continues to expand access and increase equity across our public school system, and today’s announcement on admissions changes for middle and high schools does just that,” said Mayor Adams. “I am proud to announce changes to decades-old processes, which will allow students to apply to middle schools citywide while still giving preference to district students, open-up the high school application process so that families can apply to as many schools as they like, and use technology to help inform families’ application decisions during the high school admissions process. Improving educational choice for New York City students is a key part of our mission to make our city a better place to live for New York families, and we are continuing to deliver on this mission.”

“As the largest school district in the nation, opportunity is around every corner for our young people,” said Public Schools Chancellor Banks. “Enrollment updates like these make accessing these educational opportunities easier for students of all ages and make the admissions process easier for families. I am thrilled that we’ve improved our enrollment processes and policies in response to direct feedback from our school communities, and I look forward to continuing to support our students as they embark on their unique learning journeys.”

“As a mom of a New York City public school student and an educator, I know firsthand the challenges that families face during the application process,” said incoming Public Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos. “I’m excited that we’re bringing more clarity for families by giving them insight into their chances of acceptance and allowing them to apply to as many high schools as they wish. This change represents a significant step forward in school choice, opening up opportunities for middle schoolers across the entire city, and shining a light on the hidden gems across our system. We will continue to improve our systems to make them more family friendly.”

“These updates represent a critical step toward ensuring every family has greater access and choice in our public schools,” said City Hall Chief of Staff Camille Joseph Varlack. “By removing outdated barriers and leveraging technology, we are making the admissions process easier and empowering students and their families with the tools they need to make informed decisions for their education.

This is major step toward equity, opportunity, and a brighter future for New York City students. New York City Public Schools is expanding access to middle schools across the city by allowing families to apply to any middle school in the city. Importantly, students will maintain priority for their home zone and/or district. If space allows, students living outside of a zone and/or district can be admitted to a school, which will strengthen neighborhood schools, where, historically, families who lived on the border of multiple districts were unable to apply for schools that they live within proximity to but were not technically the district in which they reside. Across most grade bands — such as 3-K, Pre-K, Kindergarten, and high school — families can apply to almost any school of interest across the city.”

Today’s announcement ensures that middle school applications are no longer limited to district restrictions, which was largely the case previously. Approximately half of the 1,120 respondents to a 2023 middle school admissions survey said they would have applied to schools outside of their district if that was an option to them, another way the Adams administration has taken decisive action to be responsive to families’ priorities.

Additionally, as of the high school admissions cycle, students across all grades will now have the ability to list an unlimited number of application choices, an expansion from the original 12. Families are not required to list more programs than they previously would have, but families who have additional preferences can now include them in their application to expand choice and maximize their options.

Finally, beginning this fall, high school applicants will have access to a new feature in MySchools — the city’s centralized hub for public school applications and enrollment — that helps them better understand their chance of getting an offer to a program. Developed in collaboration with New York City Public Schools’ Division of Instructional and Information Technology and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Blueprint Labs, the New York City Public Schools Office of Student Enrollment developed a feature to support families in making high school application decisions. For each program, students will see an icon indicating whether they have a “high,” “medium,” or “low” chance of receiving an offer, based on the applicant’s admissions characteristics like district or borough, grades, priority group, and the school’s admissions method, such as whether the admission is open or screened. This easy-to-access information will open up additional options for students who, without the new icon, may not otherwise have applied, and it will lead to more students submitting balanced applications listing schools with a range of selectivity levels.

There are some programs where a student’s chances of receiving an offer are unknown because the program has additional requirements that determine how offers are made, such as an audition or an assessment. In these cases, families will see a different icon and an explanation of why their chances cannot be shown for this program. The tool is meant to be a guide and resource for families as they navigate the admissions process and should not be considered a pre-determined outcome.

Today’s announcement further builds on the Adams administration’s two years of core educational accomplishments for New York City public school students, including implementing a major literacy initiative through “NYC Reads;” instituting nation-leading dyslexia supports; opening 35 new, bilingual education programs across 16 districts in 2024 for a total of 559 programs in 11 languages; expanding Gifted and Talented Programs; increasing both math and English Language Arts test scores; building nine new schools for the 2024-2025 school year alone; helping students prepare for college and careers through a Modern Youth Apprenticeship program; dramatically increasing early childhood enrollment with over 150,000 children enrolled across the system last year; cementing new labor contracts for teachers, principals, and staff; and, recently, unveiling a signature math initiative, “NYC Solves,” as well as creating the Division of Inclusive and Accessible Learning to prioritize the city’s most vulnerable students and families, including multi-language learners and students with disabilities.

“Today we launch historic reforms to make the middle and high school admissions processes the most user-friendly, responsive, and accessible they have ever been,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Education is the pathway to success, and we must make it as easy as possible for parents to make the right choices for their children. Parents can now apply to middle schools citywide, rank unlimited high school choices, and access an app from MIT providing critical information to make an informed decision. Our reforms come in response to engagement with thousands of families and other stakeholders, recognizing their wants and needs. Together, we will create an admissions process that works for all families in the nation’s largest school system.”

“Applying to high schools and middle schools in our city can be confusing, so any steps taken to make the process work better for students and their parents is deeply appreciated,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “The updates announced today will do a great deal to address student and parental concerns and will help students get into the schools that will best serve their needs. I encourage students and parents to take advantage of all the resources available to them, including those that will be found at the High School Selection and Awareness Fair that my office will be hosting at Queens Borough Hall on Monday, September 30, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.”

MAYOR ADAMS LAUNCHES NEW PROGRAM TO HELP AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROJECTS GO GREEN, SAVE GREEN

Innovative Program Reinvests Proceeds from Carbon Offset Purchases to Help Affordable Housing Developments Afford Resiliency, Decarbonization Projects

Administration Calls on City Council to Enable J-51 Tax Incentive to Help Co-Op and Condo Owners Afford Emission Reduction Projects

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today created a new fund, the GreenHOUSE Fund, to help building owners comply with Local Law 97 while directing critical resources to help rent-regulated apartment buildings and low-income co-ops afford emissions reduction projects. The law — passed by the New York City Council in 2019 — sets increasingly stringent emissions limits for large buildings in New York City but allows those buildings to purchase offset certificates for 10 percent of those limits (effectively, paying for decarbonization efforts in other buildings). This fund — created through a rule set to be proposed shortly by the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) — will take the proceeds from those offset purchases and direct them towards decarbonizing and electrifying affordable housing developments that wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford them. This will also improve air quality in disadvantaged communities with disproportionately high asthma rates and will move the city and state closer to achieving their respective emissions reduction and equity goals.

Additionally, Mayor Adams has called on the New York City Council to enact the J-51 housing quality tax incentive program — passed this year by the New York state Legislature, with Mayor Adams’ support, and signed into law by New York Governor Kathy Hochul — and to allow buildings to use it to cover Local Law 97 compliance costs. This creative approach would devote significant city resources to help low- and moderate-income multifamily buildings, including many moderate-income co-ops and condos outside of Manhattan, afford the emissions reduction projects that they’d need to implement to meet their Local Law 97 targets.

“Our buildings produce 70 percent of New York City’s emissions, which is why we’re laser-focused on helping buildings electrify, decarbonize, and move forward into the future,” said Mayor Adams. “But we can’t leave anyone behind — particularly our affordable housing developments, which often are located in disadvantaged neighborhoods with high asthma rates. That’s why we’re launching our new GreenHOUSE Fund, to make it more affordable to go green and save green. We’re making sure that we don’t leave anyone behind as we build a greener, cleaner city for working-class New Yorkers.”

“Responding to the climate crisis requires all of us; participation must be within everyone’s financial reach,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “With the GreenHOUSE program, we are making real inroads on the affordability challenge of emissions reduction mandates — not with federal underwriting or an expensive, taxpayer-funded program, but simply by helping one another, an idea as clever as it is simple. The true renewable resources in New York are our collaboration and innovation, and I look forward to this scaling to make New York City the greenest big city in America.”

“Our administration is committed to housing that’s affordable and sustainable,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “The GreenHOUSE Fund is an innovative approach to advancing our decarbonization goals while supporting affordable housing projects. I want to thank our partners across the administration for their commitment to building a greener and more affordable city.”

“Most building stakeholders will be able to comply in this first compliance period, but for those who are just slightly over their limits, the offsets will provide a significant benefit to help them avoid penalties, support carbon reduction in affordable housing, and allow them to continue planning for deeper reductions for 2030 and beyond,” said New York City Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner and New York City Chief Climate Officer Rohit T. Aggarwala. “This fund is another resource the Adams administration is providing to help buildings achieve Local Law 97 mobilization under the city’s world-leading Climate Mobilization Act.”

“The creation of the GreenHOUSE Fund in our latest proposed rule provides needed support for building owners as they work towards compliance with their emissions limits,” said DOB Commissioner Jimmy Oddo. “By working across agencies, this innovative program will help reduce carbon emissions from our city, while simultaneously upgrading building systems in our affordable housing stock.”

“From the Green Fast Track to today’s announcement of the GreenHOUSE Fund, our administration continues its momentum in addressing the housing and climate crises,” said New York City Executive Director for Housing Leila Bozorg. “New Yorkers deserve safe, quality, affordable housing in environments where they don’t have to worry about air quality and asthma. I look forward to City Council passing J-51 so that we can get the full force of our decarbonization tools and improve the lives of New Yorkers in need of affordable and sustainable housing.”

“A just transition brings everyone along in the crucial work of decarbonizing buildings and these offsets will provide affordable housing a critical new resource,” said Mayor’s Office of Climate and Environmental Justice (MOCEJ) Executive Director Elijah Hutchinson. “This will improve air quality, create jobs, and create a greener and more equitable future for the New Yorkers of today and tomorrow. The new affordable housing resource should be amplified by other resources and tools — specifically, the City Council must pass the J-51 property tax abatement, which will bring funding to improve buildings that house low- and middle-income New Yorkers, work that also can reduce pollution and lower energy bills.”

Under DOB’s pending rule — and as directed by Local Law 97 — offset certificates will be available for property owners to purchase in advance of the compliance reporting deadline in May 2025. They will cost $268 per ton of carbon emissions, the same cost as the penalty imposed for not meeting emissions limits, and through the GreenHOUSE Fund are earmarked for efficiency improvements at affordable housing developments across New York City. The fund will flow through the Resilient & Equitable Decarbonization Initiative, a joint HPD-New York state Energy Research and Development Authority initiative which already has a significant pipeline of affordable housing locations that are ready and willing to start building retrofits.

The proposed rule was informed by a Local Law 97 advisory board, convened by the city and staffed with volunteer stakeholders, including architects, engineers, property owners, business leaders, public utilities, environmental justice advocates, and tenant advocates. Since the law was first passed in 2019, the city has conducted extensive outreach to property owners, including holding hundreds of information sessions online and in-person across the five boroughs, provided free wrap-around technical support, and developed PACE financing to fund decarbonization work.

Under the Adams administration, rulemaking at DOB has continued with an eye towards helping building owners reduce emissions. Last September, Mayor Adams launched “Getting 97 Done,” a comprehensive plan to mobilize the city’s large buildings to reduce their emissions. The plan includes four key elements: identifying and targeting city, state, federal, and utility-based financing and funding for upgrades; providing buildings with needed technical advice, implementing key enforcement mechanisms via a DOB rule package; and decarbonizing central systems in partnership with New York state.

Building owners who need guidance on how to comply with the new regulations should reach out to the “NYC Accelerator,” a MOCEJ program which provides technical one-on-one assistance to property owners, helps them apply for available financing and incentive programs, and connects them with sustainability professionals to start retrofit projects. Since the beginning of the Adams administration, NYC Accelerator has assisted 22,000 buildings and helped start 25,000 retrofit projects, reducing carbon emissions by 19,400 tons and saving building owners more than $5 million in avoided penalties.

“The more support we give to building owners, the more likely that Local Law 97 is going to be successful in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, creating a more sustainable city, and improving air quality for all New Yorkers,” said New York State Senator Kevin Parker. “I applaud the Adams administration for continuing their smart approach to implementing this important climate law.”

“The GreenHOUSE Fund is a common sense policy to achieve a sustainable future for our city while providing homeowners the financial support they need,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Local Law 97 will tackle the greenhouse gas emissions from our buildings, which account for almost 70 percent of the City’s total emissions. When fully implemented, it will bring large building emissions down to net zero, create 26,700 jobs, lower our energy bills, raise property values, and prevent 200-300 deaths and hospitalizations annually from air pollution. The GreenHOUSE Fund will use offset purchase revenue to provide assistance to rent regulated buildings and low-income co-ops, so that every homeowner can afford upgrades on the path to carbon neutrality. I will be working with all stakeholders to provide the resources for everyone to comply with Local Law 97 and will fight for reforming the J-51 tax incentive to apply toward decarbonization.”

“Today’s announcement is a triple win for New York City,” said John Mandyck, CEO, Urban Green Council. “The GreenHOUSE Fund will unlock electrification in disadvantaged communities, give prudent flexibility to building owners, and ensure that LL97 dollars decarbonize our buildings. Urban Green worked with partners for more than three years to advance this concept, and we applaud the mayor and the teams at DOB and HPD for this innovative climate solution.”

“Decarbonization of the built environment is critical to reaching the Adams administration’s ambitious 2050 goals to achieve a cleaner, carbon neutral city,” said Jolie Milstein, president and CEO, New York State Association for Affordable Housing (NYSAFAH). “But that also presents significant fiscal challenges — especially when it comes to making the necessary investments in existing and aging buildings to meet new energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions. Creation of the Affordable Housing Offset Fund, supported by contributions from private developers, is a creative and welcome approach to enable improvements that will be good for the environment while also helping address the affordable housing crisis.”

“By strategically addressing financial issues of the affordable housing sector, the Local Law 97 Offset Fund will help owners of affordable housing to realize Local Law 97’s ambitious and worthy electrification goals,” said Jonathan Rose, president, Jonathan Rose Companies and member, NYSAFAH.

“The GreenHOUSE Fund will not only help New York City achieve Local Law 97 building decarbonization goals, but it will ensure myriad local health and economic benefits are realized by our communities,” said Donna De Costanzo, northeast regional director, climate and energy, Natural Resources Defense Council. “This creative program will deliver much-needed investment in affordable housing and provide funds for the buildings most in need of assistance.”

“The creation of the GreenHOUSE fund is a smart and important step in the evolution of the City’s emission reductions policy,” said Howard Slatkin, executive director, Citizens Housing and Planning Council. “By channeling offset purchases toward the sustainability needs of New York City’s own affordable housing, it can not only help us achieve our climate objectives, but also deliver affordable housing to New Yorkers in need by solving financial challenges facing affordable projects, provide environmental benefits to surrounding communities, and reinvest offset revenues within our local economy.”

“We are facing dual crises of housing affordability and climate impacts and the proposed new rule by the Adams administration seeks to address both,” said Michelle de la Uz, executive director, Fifth Avenue Committee. “As a nonprofit owner and developer of affordable housing in New York City, Fifth Avenue Committee is keenly aware of the energy efficiency needs of our properties which will benefit our low- and moderate-income tenants and ensure our city meets its greenhouse gas reduction goals. A creative funding mechanism which enables us to implement urgently needed energy efficient retrofits for existing affordable rent stabilized housing is much needed and welcomed.”

MAYOR ADAMS CELEBRATES CITY PLANNING COMMISSION’S APPROVAL OF “CITY OF YES FOR HOUSING OPPORTUNITY” PROPOSAL

Most Pro-Housing Proposal in City History Would Create as Many as 108,850 New Homes in 15 Years

Proposal Now Goes to City Council for Hearing and Final Vote

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of City Planning (DCP) Director and City Planning Commission (CPC) Chair Dan Garodnick today celebrated the CPC’s vote to approve “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity,” a historic zoning proposal to enable the creation of a “little more housing in every neighborhood.” As New York City faces a generational housing crisis with just a 1.4 percent rental vacancy rate, the proposal would allow for the creation of up to 108,850 new homes over the next 15 years. City of Yes for Housing Opportunity will head to the New York City Council for a hearing and final vote before the end of the year.

“Today, the City Planning Commission listened to the voices of countless New Yorkers and said, ‘yes’ to the ‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity,’” said Mayor Adams. “New Yorkers cannot afford to wait any longer. With a 1.4 percent vacancy rate and the rent being too damn high, families are getting priced out. The only way to solve this crisis is to build more. Now, it is time for the City Council to meet the moment. I urge councilmembers to join New Yorkers in supporting this proposal and building a future that’s more affordable for working-class families, that provides peace of mind for older adults who want to age in place, and that allows our young people to live comfortably in the greatest city on the globe. That starts with them saying ‘yes’ to this once-in-a-generation housing proposal.”

“‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity’ is mission critical for addressing our housing crisis, and we celebrate the CPC’s vote to approve this historic zoning proposal,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “We can add CPC’s approval to the chorus of support we are hearing across the five boroughs, including from four borough presidents, close to 20 community boards, nearly 150 organizations of the ‘Yes to Housing’ Coalition, and New Yorkers from all walks of life who know that tackling the housing crisis is the defining task of our generation.”

“With a historically low vacancy rate and many New Yorkers struggling to find housing, the time for action is now. It will take all of us to address New York City’s housing crisis and ‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity’ will help to get us there,” said CPC Chair and DCP Director Garodnick. “Thanks to today’s vote by the City Planning Commission, we’re closer than ever to setting our city on a more affordable, equitable, and livable path.”

“The City Planning Commission’s favorable vote on the ‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity’ proposal means we’re one step closer to meeting the deep and varied housing needs of New Yorkers,” said New York City Executive Director for Housing Leila Bozorg. “By enabling a little more housing in every neighborhood, we can make a big dent in our housing shortage while ushering in a more fair and equitable housing landscape. I look forward to working with our colleagues in the City Council to pass this historic proposal!”

“City of Yes for Housing Opportunity” is the most pro-housing set of zoning changes in New York’s history. The proposal includes:

Creating the Universal Affordability Preference (UAP), a bonus allowing roughly 20 percent more housing in developments, as long as the additional homes are permanently affordable. If UAP was enacted it 2014, it would have generated an estimated 20,000 income-restricted homes.

Legalizing small accessory dwelling units (ADUs), like backyard cottages or converted garages, giving homeowners extra income and allowing them to stay close to family.

Investing in transit-oriented development and Town Center zoning, which would allow three-to-five story apartment buildings to be built near transit and along commercial corridors.

Allowing development on large lots known as campuses, including faith-based organizations, that are today limited by outdated rules from using existing development rights.

Lifting arbitrary and costly parking mandates for new residential construction, while still allowing for off-street parking as needed.

Enacting new high-density zoning districts that would allow more housing, including mandatory affordable housing, in high-demand, central areas where it is urgently needed.

Re-legalizing small and shared housing models with common facilities like kitchens.

Making it easier for conversion of offices and other non-residential building into housing.

The CPC’s approval of City of Yes for Housing Opportunity follows an extensive public review process, including over 175 Community Board meetings, 10 public information sessions, a CPC hearing in which a majority of speakers testified in favor of the proposal, and more. The proposal also received favorable recommendations from Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson, Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards.

Since the start of his administration, Mayor Adams has made record investments towards creating and preserving affordable housing. In July, Mayor Adams announced back-to-back record breaking years in both creating and connecting New Yorkers to affordable housing. In June, the Adams administration delivered an on-time, balanced, and fiscally-responsible $112.4 billion Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Adopted Budget that invests $2 billion in capital funds across FY25 and FY26 to HPD and the New York City Housing Authority’s capital budgets. In total, the Adams administration has committed a record $26 billion in housing capital in the current 10-year plan as the city faces a general housing crisis. In July, Mayor Adams and others also announced a landmark $500 million investment from the Battery Park City Authority’s Joint Purpose Fund to build and maintain affordable housing. And this past spring, thanks to Mayor Adams’ vision and leadership, the city celebrated the largest 100 percent affordable housing project in 40 years with the Willets Point transformation. 

Further, the Adams administration is using every tool available to address the city’s housing crisis. Mayor Adams announced multiple new tools, including a $4 million state grant, to help New York City homeowners create ADUs that will not only help them to afford to remain in the communities they call home, but also to build generational wealth for families. 

Under Mayor Adams’ leadership, the city is fulfilling its 2024 State of the City commitment to build more affordable housing, including by being ahead of schedule on advancing two dozen affordable housing projects on city-owned land this year through the “24 in ‘24” initiative, reopening the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program waitlist after being closed to general applications for nearly 15 years, and creating the Tenant Protection Cabinet to coordinate across agencies to better serve tenants. The city has also taken several steps to cut red tape and speed up the delivery of much-needed housing, including through the “Green Fast Track for Housing,” a streamlined environmental review process for qualifying small- and medium-sized housing projects; the “Office Conversion Accelerator,” an interagency effort to guide buildings that wish to convert through city bureaucracy; and other initiatives of the Building and Land Use Approval Streamlining Taskforce. 

“The City of Yes Zoning for Housing Opportunity offers several crucial solutions to address our city’s severe housing crisis,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson. “As New York City continues to attract families, it’s vital that we expand housing options to manage growth and curb rising rents. This proposal represents a significant step towards making our city more affordable. As Bronx Borough President, I see firsthand how current housing policies fail to meet the needs of many New Yorkers, especially those in the Bronx with median incomes of $40,000 or less. With new housing development at historic lows and rising costs for maintenance and insurance, it’s clear that outdated zoning ordinances must be revised. The ‘City of Yes’ proposal includes measures to reduce these outdated regulations, incentivize affordable housing, and promote development near mass transit. I appreciate the collaborative effort between Mayor Eric Adams, DCP Dan Garodnick, and other city agencies to address these issues comprehensively and support this proposal with my recommended conditions and observations.”

“New York City’s is facing an unprecedented housing crisis, and the main culprit is our persistent lack of new units. We need to make it easier to build housing, and that includes eliminating zoning regulations that hinder new construction,” said Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine. “’City of Yes for Housing Opportunity’ is a thoughtful proposal that will bring our zoning resolution into the 21st century and help to create the housing that New York City so desperately needs. I’m thrilled that the City Planning Commission voted to approve this proposal, and I’m hopeful that the City Council will agree that we must take bold action now.”

“Our city is facing housing and affordability crises the likes of which haven’t been seen in generations,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “It is abundantly clear that the only realistic solution to these crises is to build more affordable housing as rapidly and strategically as possible across our city. All of Queens’ community boards highlighted significant concerns about potential impacts on Queens infrastructure and the need for deeper, affordable housing. Balancing these two critical issues will require thoughtful collaboration and robust commitments from the City and the State. I believe we can get there with ‘City of Yes.’”

“New York City is one step closer to building the housing that New Yorkers so urgently need,” said Carlo A. Scissura, Esq., president and CEO, New York Building Congress. “Every community has recognized the lack of housing opportunities, particularly for those looking for affordable housing, and ‘City of Yes’ will help make sure every neighborhood is a part of the solution. As the City Council begins its review, the Building Congress and our members are ready to work with our leaders on finally tackling our housing shortage and affordability crisis.”

“With City of Yes, Mayor Adams and his team are advancing a thoughtful plan that reflects the gravity of our housing crisis and offers a comprehensive approach to making housing more abundant, accessible, and affordable – all while promoting more equitable neighborhoods as it enables a wide-range of housing types that fit the character of each community,” said Rafael E. Cestero, CEO, Community Preservation Corporation. “With the City Planning Commission’s support of ‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity,’ we’re continuing to do the right thing by saying yes to the ‘City of Yes’ as we work together to unlock new development opportunity and ensure a brighter future for all New York City residents.”

“Outdated or misguided zoning acts as a brake on the range of housing options available to New Yorkers, and is a root cause of our affordability crisis,” said Howard Slatkin, executive director, Citizens Housing and Planning Council. “Today’s commission vote represents a critical step away from a mindset that new housing is a problem to be managed, and toward embracing it as a solution to the diverse needs of New Yorkers in all our neighborhoods, at every stage of their lives. These zoning reforms won’t on their own end our housing shortage and affordability crisis, but we cannot escape it without them.”

“Our agency has recommended that local governments explore adjusting zoning codes to promote the availability of new housing while preserving existing buildings,” said Sara C. Bronin, chair, Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. “Many of the changes voted on today are aligned with our recent policy statement on housing and historic preservation including facilitating office-to-residential conversions, legalizing ADUs, ending parking minimums, and enabling eased transfers of development rights from historic properties. These updates will support new housing in New York City, and we applaud the administration’s efforts to leverage the city’s historic built environment to support housing.”

“Today’s vote has momentous potential to help address our historic housing supply deficit,” said Sabrina Lippman, CEO, Habitat for Humanity New York City and Westchester County. “Building a New York where everyone can access affordable housing and achieve housing stability requires dismantling systems that intentionally prevent housing from being built and unlocking opportunities across all communities. The ‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity’ incentivizes affordable housing in new developments and reduces barriers for faith communities, transit-rich neighborhoods, and homeowners to build homes for — and with — their neighbors.”

MAYOR ADAMS’ STATEMENT ON NEW YORK CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS CHANCELLOR DAVID BANKS’ RETIREMENT

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today released the following statement on the announcement of the retirement of New York City Public Schools Chancellor David C. Banks, effective December 31, 2024:

“I am immensely grateful and proud of the work accomplished in New York City Public Schools under Chancellor David Banks. In less than three years, our city’s public schools have transformed — from ensuring schools were safe and open coming out of the pandemic to a space that has increased our students’ reading scores, math scores, and graduation rates. We’ve implemented critical initiatives like ‘NYC Reads,’ ‘NYC Solves,’ and universal dyslexia screenings, while also ensuring a seamless and timely coordination with partners to welcome, enroll, and support thousands of newly-arriving students and their families on a citywide scale. We’ve done all this and more on behalf of nearly 1 million public school students, and Chancellor Banks was crucial to getting that done every day. On behalf of all New Yorkers, we thank Chancellor Banks for his service, and wish him well in his retirement at the end of the calendar year.”

Public Schools Chancellor Banks added:

“After nearly 40 years of dedicated service to New York City’s public schools, I have made the decision to retire at the end of this year. I want to thank Mayor Adams for giving me the opportunity to serve as chancellor, and I am immensely proud of the progress we’ve made together — ensuring every child can read, expanding special education and gifted & talented programs, and creating innovative pathways for our students to secure rewarding careers and long-term success. Additionally, I want to thank the hundreds of thousands of families who entrust us with their children and the 140,000 employees who show up every day for our students — you make our public schools possible. I grew up in our public schools and spent most of my adult life serving the students and families of our city, and I have every confidence that the work we’ve started will continue to thrive and benefit generations to come.”

Public Schools Chancellor Banks led New York City Public Schools through major transformations, implementing signature education initiatives, including “NYC Reads” universal dyslexia screening, mayoral accountability, and more. Key successes include:

Implemented major literacy initiative through “NYC Reads,” which has adopted curriculum based in the science of reading to half of the city’s elementary schools and 90 percent of early childhood programs.
Implemented “NYC Solves,” a major citywide initiative to raise math achievement so all students graduate with strong math skills.
Instituted nation-leading dyslexia support through mandating dyslexia screening for all students and opened first-ever public school dedicated to supporting students with dyslexia and other print-based learning disabilities.
Expanded accelerated learning opportunities for more students by adding 57 Gifted and Talented programs and increasing the number of students participating by 2,400 for a total of 16,500 students in Kindergarten through 5th
Opened nine new schools and 24 new school buildings, including the most new K-12 seats opened in two decades, ahead of the 2024-2025 school year.
Helped 8,662 students secure a total of 23,000 job placements, resulting in students earning a cumulative $8.2 million from paid work experiences at top companies through FutureReadyNYC.
Cemented new labor contracts that keep the city’s public schools competitive for talent nationwide, helping to increase the teacher retention rate to 95 percent.
Invested over $600 million in new funding to protect critical programs that were funded with temporary stimulus dollars.
Dramatically increased early childhood enrollment with over 114,000 children enrolled this year, stabilized the system by reducing the payment timeline to vendors from approximately 60 to 90 days to an average of 12 days, and strengthened quality with over 90 percent of programs and schools implementing a singular curriculum.
Won mayoral accountability of schools twice in three years and achieved an increase in enrollment for the first time in eight years, while investing $180 million to implement a comprehensive class size reduction plan.

ADAMS ADMINISTRATION KICKS OFF CLIMATE WEEK BY WINNING $260 MILLION IN FEDERAL GRANTS TO MODERNIZE BROOKLYN MARINE TERMINAL, CONSTRUCT GREENWAY ON 10TH AVENUE IN INWOOD

Federal Grant, Along With Initial $95 Million Investment, Will Help Transform Brooklyn Marine Terminal Into Modern 21st Century Maritime Port, Vibrant Mixed-Use Community Hub

Inwood Greenway Will Add 1.35 Miles of Grade-Separated Bikeway and Improvements South of 10th Avenue, Closing Major Gap in Manhattan Waterfront Greenway Network

Administration’s Federal Infrastructure Funding Task Force Has Secured Total of $2.37 Billion in Funding, Including Nearly $1.3 Billion in Competitive Grants

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today kicked off Climate Week by announcing his administration has won another $260 million in grants from the Biden-Harris administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, continuing the Adams administration’s unprecedented success in securing federal infrastructure funding. The grants — issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation — will support key infrastructure projects in New York City, including transforming the Brooklyn Marine Terminal into a modern, 21st-century maritime port and vibrant mixed-use community hub, as well as constructing a segment of the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway along 10th Avenue in Inwood. The administration’s Federal Infrastructure Funding Task Force — chaired by Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi — has now secured a total of $2.37 billion in funding, including nearly $1.3 billion in competitive grants.

“Building a safer, more affordable New York City means investing in our city’s future — in 21st-century jobs, in state-of-the-art infrastructure, and in our public spaces. And thanks to the Biden-Harris administration, we’re able to take major steps forward towards doing just that,” said Mayor Adams. “We’re bringing thousands of jobs and billions in economic impact to our city by transforming the Brooklyn Marine Terminal into a modern, 21st-century maritime port and mixed-use community hub, and we’re bringing new public space and safety improvements to Inwood with our greenway along 10th Avenue. This helps get us that much closer to having New Yorkers be able to bike and walk all the way around Manhattan on greenways. And as we kick off Climate Week, these investments will help us build a cleaner, greener city for all New Yorkers.”

“The cornerstone of building a better New York City is smart infrastructure. Today, that is made possible through an historic level of funding from the Biden-Harris administration and the tireless work of our congressional delegation,” said Deputy Mayor Joshi. “This is the largest single day of competitive infrastructure grants in New York City history. These two projects represent the breadth of urgent infrastructure investment in our city, from updating our roads for modern, safe mobility to revitalizing our waterfront for greener freight movement. Huge credit to our Federal Infrastructure Funding Task Force, which, since January 2022, has collaborated to earn us more than $1 billion in competitive grants, with more to come to build a stronger future for New York City.”

“I cannot think of a better way to start New York City’s Climate Week than with this announcement, a generational investment by the federal government that will catalyze the reinvention of the Brooklyn Marine Terminal into a resilient, modern maritime facility with sensible, future-proof transportation infrastructure and mixed-use development,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “I want to thank the U.S. Department of Transportation and the entire New York delegation for their advocacy on behalf of all 8.3 million New Yorkers to secure this transformational funding for the future of the Brooklyn Marine Terminal.”

“This is a historic investment for a generational project that will truly transform Brooklyn’s waterfront and deliver positive economic and environmental impacts across the region,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) President and CEO Andrew Kimball. “An enormous amount of thanks to the Biden-Harris administration and the U.S. Department of Transportation for recognizing the importance of the future of the Brooklyn Marine Terminal and the role it can play in bolstering our Blue Highways network throughout the five boroughs. I also want to thank our federal elected officials, Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, along with Congressman Dan Goldman who is leading our Brooklyn Marine Terminal Task Force, for their efforts in advocating for this project.”

“Every neighborhood deserves safe streets and public spaces to share with their families and neighbors. Thanks to the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to equity, we’ll be able to fill a critical gap in Manhattan’s waterfront greenway while delivering important traffic safety upgrades in Inwood,” said New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “We thank President Biden, local elected officials, and our sister agencies for their support of this life-saving work.”

“The greatest city in the world deserves high-quality public spaces, and these two projects will expand New Yorkers’ public space access for generations to come,” said New York City Department of Parks and Recreation Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “We look forward to working with our partners at DOT on the greenway along 10th Avenue, creating a safer and more direct path from the Bronx to the greenway along the Harlem River, connecting with historic Manhattan parks like Highbridge Park and Inwood Hill Park as well as to a new waterfront park in development along Academy Street. At Brooklyn Marine Terminal, our coastline will continue its inspiring transformation, helping New Yorkers connect with each other and with our city’s waterfront.”

Recent federal legislation, including the Biden-Harris administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, have made unprecedented amounts of federal funding available for key projects across the country. Recognizing this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, Mayor Adams formed the Federal Infrastructure Funding Task Force. Under Deputy Mayor Joshi’s guidance, that task force evaluates the competitive grant opportunities available, with a focus on new opportunities made possible through both the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, and works to break down silos and foster creativity across city agencies. The city has aligned its priorities for high-quality, sustainable, and equitable infrastructure with aggressive and creative grant applications from a wide range of infrastructure agencies. These two announcements represent the single largest day of competitive grant awards in New York City history.

Brooklyn Marine Terminal

The $164 million federal grant for the Brooklyn Marine Terminal comes after Mayor Adams, along with New York Governor Kathy Hochul, NYCEDC, and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey announced an historic agreement that will enable the city to transform the 122-acre Brooklyn Marine Terminal into a modern, 21st-century maritime port and mixed-use community. This federal grant builds on an initial $95 million investment from New York City and New York state that would stabilize and repair Piers 7, 8, and 10; and fund planning for the site’s future, new modern, electrified container crane for operations at the terminal, as well as a future cold storage facility on-site. This new funding will help rehabilitate and extend the life of Pier 10 — home of the Red Hook Container Terminal — demolish the structurally-deficient Piers 9A and 9B and replace them with a new marginal Pier 9 that is better able to handle modern ships; and improve traffic and circulation for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. In the next 10 years, the project is expected to generate $9 billion of economic value while potentially creating thousands of jobs.

Last week, NYCEDC announced the full membership of the Brooklyn Marine Terminal Task Force. The task force is chaired by U.S. Representative Dan Goldman, and co-chaired by New York state Senator Andrew Gounardes and New York City Councilmember Alexa Aviles. It is comprised of a wide range of experts, including federal, state, and local elected officials; the local community board; local resident organizations; maritime and industrial stakeholders; unions; planning and environmental justice organizations; and representatives of the local business community. Through this ongoing process, the task force aims to build a shared vision across stakeholders, community members, and elected officials. The task force is charged with approving the illustrative vision plan, which will include reinvestment and development for a modernized maritime port and a vibrant mixed-use community, for the Brooklyn Marine Terminal in early 2025.

NYCEDC kicked off a series of community engagement events in August, starting with a public information webinar on August 12th, and will hold the first public workshop on September 28th at the Miccio Center in Brooklyn. Community input will be a vital part of the master planning process as it provides NYCEDC with critical feedback at each phase of the project. An initial public survey is now available online. Additionally, NYCEDC has selected renowned consulting firm Buro Happold to spearhead the master plan. WXY is leading the engagement process.

Today’s announcement builds on the Adams administration’s broader strategy to develop the “Harbor of the Future” — a multifaceted initiative announced by Mayor Adams in his State of the City this year to reimagine New York City’s waterfront to fuel 21st-century growth and innovation. The Harbor of the Future includes emerging innovation centers at the Hunts Point Produce Market in the Bronx, the Brooklyn Navy Yard, the “Climate Innovation Hub” at the Brooklyn Army Terminal, Governors Island, the Science Park and Research Campus in Kips Bay in Manhattan, and the North Shore of Staten Island.

Inwood Greenway

The $96 million federal grant for a greenway along 10th Avenue in Inwood, Manhattan will help the city fill one of the last major gaps in the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway to create a continuous cycling route around the island. The project will also address traffic safety equity in Inwood, delivering a host of safety upgrades in an underserved area to make the neighborhood’s streets safer for all. Those upgrades include a new plaza, sidewalk extensions, pedestrian islands, bus boarding extensions, raised crosswalks, and improved lighting under the elevated subway line.

The new greenway segment will stretch 1.35 miles along 10th Avenue, from West 201st Street to West 218th Street, with new, direct connections to Inwood Hill Park at West 218th Street and the Bronx via the Broadway and University Heights bridges. The project will complement the city’s planning for a historic greenway expansion across the five boroughs, including the Harlem River Greenway in the Bronx, which is currently in the planning stage. The project also helps advance the administration’s vision to “close the loop” for cyclists and pedestrians around the island of Manhattan.

The construction of the greenway will come with a wide variety of proven safety upgrades along the 10th Avenue corridor, which ranks in the top 10 percent of Manhattan’s most dangerous streets. It will also include various pedestrian and cyclist improvements along Harlem River Drive, south of 10th Avenue. Improvements will focus on reducing the time it takes pedestrians to cross the street, slowing turning vehicles, and improving boarding for bus riders along the corridor. The city will also install a full pedestrian plaza on Post Avenue between 10th Avenue and West 207th Street, adding vital public space to Inwood. Department of Design and Construction will build the project, which will enter the preliminary design phase in spring 2025, followed by additional public engagement.

“I am delighted that we have secured $163,800,000 in funding for the vital redevelopment of the Brooklyn waterfront,” said U.S. Representative Dan Goldman. “This incredible investment in our Red Hook community will be transformative. While the Brooklyn Marine Terminal had been mired in decades of inertia, we have entered a new era with this long overdue federal funding. This infusion will allow our city to fully enhance the economic growth and health of the Brooklyn Marine Terminal, while taking into account the public health and climate goals of surrounding communities. The future is here – and it’s looking bright for Brooklyn.”

“I’m proud to deliver the largest federal grant funding for New York City’s bike infrastructure in the history of our city and look forward to the new, 1.35-mile corridor along 10th Avenue in Inwood in my district,” said U.S. Representative Adriano Espaillat. “Thank you to my colleagues, Senator Schumer and Senator Gillibrand, New York City Mayor Adams and DOT Commissioner Rodriguez for the local-federal collaboration to ensure this project has the necessary funding for completion.”

“By building a better Brooklyn Marine Terminal, we’re building a better future for Brooklyn and the whole region,” said New York State Senator Andrew Gounardes. “This federal funding will help make up for years of disinvestment of the piers and allow us to invest in a modernized terminal that can sustainably handle freight deliveries, reduce emissions, expand economic opportunity and create new jobs. I’m thankful to Secretary Pete Buttigieg and the Biden administration for awarding this crucial grant and look forward to working with community partners to ensure we maximize its impact.”

“Securing $260 million in federal funding for transformative infrastructure projects is a triumph for Inwood and all New Yorkers,” said New York State Senator Robert Jackson. “The 10th Avenue Greenway in my district is not just an investment in green space — it’s an investment in our future, linking communities, advancing sustainability, and creating pathways for safe, equitable transportation. This initiative is a decisive leap toward a more resilient, interconnected, and accessible city from Inwood to the Bronx and beyond.”

“The revitalization of the Brooklyn Marine Terminal into a state-of-the-art maritime port and vibrant mixed-use community hub will significantly enhance New York City’s position as a global leader in commerce, while also creating vital opportunities for residents and businesses alike,” said New York State Assemblymember Charles D. Fall. “I commend Mayor Adams and his administration for their leadership and vision in bringing this transformative project to fruition. This investment represents a bold step towards building a brighter, more resilient, and thriving city in the 21st century, and I am proud to support it.”

“The federal funding secured by Mayor Adams and his administration is a big step in the development of the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway,” said New York State Assemblymember Manny De Los Santos. “The 1.35-mile greenway in Inwood will allow residents in the district to more easily, more enjoyably, and more safely access the waterfront along the Harlem River. It will help continue efforts to build safe biking infrastructure and to reconnect communities in New York that were intentionally separated by the construction of highways in years past. Further, it’s yet another display of President Biden and Vice President Harris’ steadfast commitment to investing in green infrastructure, jobs, and historically underserved communities. I’m grateful for the continued collaboration toward this project and I look forward to the day when Inwood residents will be able to enjoy the 10th Avenue Greenway because of those efforts.”

“Today we launch unprecedented investments to bring world class infrastructure to the greatest city in the world,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “We have secured $2.37 billion in federal funding for modern, vibrant epicenters of activity to accelerate growth in our bustling metropolis. We will transform the Brooklyn Marine Terminal into a state-of-the-art maritime and community hub, and we will revitalize Inwood with the new 10th Avenue Greenway pedestrian infrastructure and greenspace. I am proud of my work in Albany to implement much-needed infrastructure, including the 2nd Avenue Subway expansion, the Interborough Express, the Gateway Hudson Tunnel Project, new Metro North stations in the Bronx, and the South Shore Staten Island Coastal Storm Risk Management Project. Together, we will build a New York City for the 21st century and beyond.”

“Offering well-paying jobs and facilitating the movement of goods, our ports are as essential to our city’s future as they are to our past,” said

MAYOR ADAMS, DSNY COMMISSIONER TISCH’S STATEMENTS ON DEATH OF SANITATION WORKER

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) Commissioner Jessica Tisch released the following statements following the death of Richard Errico, a 19-year DSNY veteran who died in the line of duty today.

“Our thoughts tonight are with Richard’s family, friends, coworkers, and everyone who knew and loved him,” said Mayor Adams. “I met with Richard’s family tonight and shared how deeply sorry I was for their loss. Richard kept our streets and communities safe and clean for more than 19 years, and we should all be keeping Richard and his family in our prayers. He, like 8,000 uniformed sanitation workers, went to work every day to make a difference in their communities. New York’s Strongest work tirelessly every day in incredibly difficult and physically taxing jobs. Too often, we don’t stop to thank them for all they do to make our city a better place for us all to live. Next time we see one of our trucks pass by or a sanitation worker keeping our neighborhood clean — let’s all give them the thanks and recognition they deserve.”

“Tonight, our department mourns the loss of Sanitation Worker Richard Errico, a 19-year veteran who served the people of Douglaston, Littleneck, and Bayside as one of the Strongest,” said DSNY Commissioner Tisch. “He did it proudly. I ask all New Yorkers to pray for his family — for Carol, Brooke, Paige, and Tommy, as Mayor Adams and I did. May Richard’s memory be a blessing.”

MAYOR ADAMS’ STATEMENT ON RELEASE OF NYPD BODY CAMERA FOOTAGE IN SUTTER AVENUE SUBWAY SHOOTING

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams tonight released the following statement following the release of New York City Police Department (NYPD) body camera footage in the Sutter Avenue subway shooting that occurred on Sunday, September 15, 2024:

“Our condolences go out to the innocent bystanders involved in this incident and their families, and like all New Yorkers, we’re praying for their immediate recovery. No one wants to see innocent people get hurt because anytime an a New Yorker is injured during a crime, we all, collectively, share the profound pain.

“We all agree that public safety and justice are the prerequisites to prosperity and they must go hand-in-hand. Every day, we are fighting to reduce crime on our streets and in our subways, and our administration remains committed to keeping New Yorkers safe.

“While this matter remains under investigation, the NYPD’s initial review found that this shooting took place after the suspect involved brandished a dangerous weapon and put officers’ lives at risk. While the formal review continues, and out of respect for that process, I will avoid commenting any further.

“As a young man, and throughout my career as a former police officer and as an elected official, I’ve spent my career fighting for both public safety and police reform, and I have been clear that I expect a Police Department that is professional, impartial, and just. The NYPD continues to work diligently to ensure New Yorkers are both safe and policed fairly.”

GHOSTS BUSTERS: MAYOR ADAMS LAUNCHES NEW DSNY/NYPD GHOST CAR TASK FORCE TO REMOVE ILLEGAL CARS FROM NYC STREETS

More Homeless New Yorkers Connected to Subsidized Permanent Housing Than Any Year in Recent History

24 Percent Increase in Shelter to Permanent Housing Placements

City Creating Nearly 900 Deeply Affordable Homes for New Yorkers in Shelter

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Social Services (DSS) Commissioner Molly Wasow Park today celebrated a record-breaking year for placing formerly homeless New Yorkers into permanent housing. More homeless New Yorkers were connected to subsidized permanent housing than any year in recent history. In Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24), DSS helped more than 18,500 households move out of shelter and into stable homes — a 24 percent increase from the previous year. Finally, through the Affordable Housing Services (AHS) initiative, DSS is creating 844 deeply affordable homes for New Yorkers in the shelter system with City Fighting Homelessness and Eviction Prevention Supplement (CityFHEPS) vouchers. Within the first six months of the official launch of this program and through an emergency declaration, DSS is fast-tracking the opening of more than 360 units, with more than 243 units already open. Today’s announcement comes as the Adams administration aims to address the housing crisis with the “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity” proposal, which aims to produce as many as 108,850 new homes over 15 years.

“A home is more than just a place to rest at the end of the day — it’s a pathway towards turning the American Dream into a reality,” said Mayor Adams. “Today’s announcement is a sign that New Yorkers most in need are receiving the full support of our city government to move from the streets and shelters to stability; however, our work is far from done. We remain committed to making sure homeless New Yorkers achieve the dignity they deserve by finding stable and safe housing.”

“Every New Yorker deserves a permanent home,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “We’ve made significant strides in that effort — in FY24 alone, we’ve helped over 18,500 households move from shelter into permanent housing. That means more adults and young people have stable places to root their lives, kitchen tables to share a meal, counters to sit at while doing their homework, and the pride in calling a space ‘home.’ We know that housing remains a complex challenge and will continue to work the issue from all angles, including utilizing innovative models like the Affordable Housing Services program to give more individuals and families the home they deserve.”

“We are tremendously proud of our incredible teams — from frontline staff and case managers to policy experts and agency leadership — that helped realize our focused efforts to connect a record number of New Yorkers in shelter to permanent homes, despite a historic low in the city’s housing vacancy rate,” said DSS Commissioner Molly Wasow Park. “As we celebrate the opening of nearly 400 deeply affordable homes while fast-tracking the creation of another 500 such homes for households in shelter with CityFHEPS vouchers through our ground-breaking Affordable Housing Services program, we continue to act with urgency, deploying every tool at our disposal, pushing for bold and innovative rehousing solutions, and using city-funded rental assistance to build on this historic progress.”

With more than 9,000 households with CityFHEPS vouchers currently in the city’s shelter system unable to find housing due to the city’s severe housing shortage, AHS created a newer, much needed, and scalable pathway out of shelter. Through the program, the city helps nonprofits purchase or enter long-term, building-wide leases on affordable housing sites — locking in long-term affordability with strong tenant protections for CityFHEPS voucher holders.

Since the start of the Adams administration, DSS has already opened nearly 400 apartments across six high-quality affordable housing sites in the Bronx and Brooklyn in partnership with nonprofit human services providers VIP Community Services, the MBD Community Housing Corporation, The Doe Fund, and others. Another 118 units are scheduled to come online by early next year, and another 329 additional units are in the longer-term pipeline. The nonprofits manage building operations and maintenance while ensuring services to help tenants maintain housing stability. The majority of the remaining apartments are scheduled to come online over the coming months, through February 2025, which will mark the one-year anniversary of this innovative housing program for CityFHEPS voucher holders in shelter.

Since the implementation of city-funded rental assistance in 2014, over 225,000 New Yorkers in over 106,000 households have been helped to move into permanent housing or remain stably housed. Currently, the CityFHEPS program alone supports 47,000 households by providing a rental subsidy. The impact of these efforts is reflected in the steady and significant increase in the number of households using city-funded resources to move out of shelter. In FY24, the majority of households in shelter used CityFHEPS to move into permanent housing.

Chart-1 (see above)

Record-breaking progress in connecting New Yorkers to permanent housing. 13,403 households obtained permanent housing using CityFHEPS in FY24, a 42 percent increase compared to FY23.

DSS’s focus on ensuring that New Yorkers exiting shelter are positioned for long-term housing stability is reflected in the steady decline in the return to shelter rate. In FY24, the rate continued to decline, meaning that the vast majority of households the agency helped place in permanent housing remained stably housed. DSS achieved better housing outcomes for all populations, placing 42 percent more families with children and 13 percent more single adults from shelter into permanent housing overall.

“Today we celebrate a historic milestone in addressing our city’s housing crisis,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “We have smashed all previous records by placing 18,500 households into permanent, stable housing—a 24 percent increase over last year. That is thousands of New Yorkers lifted out of homelessness and empowered to embark on a path of economic opportunity. I am proud of my work in Albany to address housing insecurity, passing a package of reforms in Albany to supercharge affordable housing production. We will continue implementing every policy so that all New Yorkers have safe, affordable housing.”

GHOSTS BUSTERS: MAYOR ADAMS LAUNCHES NEW DSNY/NYPD GHOST CAR TASK FORCE TO REMOVE ILLEGAL CARS FROM NYC STREETS

NYPD Officers Detailed to DSNY Will Enforce Against Parked Ghost Cars

First Five Days of Operations Removed nearly 300 Ghost Cars

Builds on Ongoing Interagency, City-State Task Force That Has Removed Nearly 2,200 Ghost Cars from New York City Streets

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced a new interagency task force that will help remove illegal “ghost cars” — cars that are virtually untraceable by traffic cameras and toll readers because of their forged or altered license plates — from parking spaces on city streets. As of last week, 15 uniformed members of service of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) will be assigned strictly to parked ghost car removal, under the direction of the New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY). The task force began regular operations on September 10^th, and over the first five nights of operations alone removed 295 ghost cars, freeing up space for New Yorkers who follow safety and regulatory requirements.

“Far too often, ghost cars are not only used to evade toll readers, but are also being used in more serious crimes, including shootings, robberies, and hit-and-runs. This new task force will identify, target, and tow illegal ghost cars that are parked on our streets as the DSNY and the NYPD become the real-life ghost busters,” said Mayor Adams. “Today, we are sending an important message to everyone who drives on the streets of our city: fake plates are a real crime and if you leave a car on city streets with forged, stolen, or altered plates, it won’t be there when you get back. Our streets must be safer, and that’s why our teams will continue to work 24/7 to ensure New Yorkers’ safety.”

“The era of the free ride is over. Whether you’re using a ghost plate to evade a toll or create a menace on our streets, you will be caught and you will be prosecuted,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “Parked or moving, if you’re obscuring your plates, our city is coming for you.”

“Ghost cars come in many flavors. The owners of these vehicles evade detection from law enforcement by operating with no plates, fake plates, plates not registered to a vehicle, or expired plates,” said DSNY Commissioner Jessica Tisch. “These untraceable vehicles show up at the scenes of serious crimes like robbery, trafficking, or assault. Ghost car drivers have been caught with firearms, caught leaving the scene of a crash, and more. Now, we have a strategy to get them where they’re parked, every hour of every day.”

“We and DSNY are now sweeping up ghost vehicles where they park in our communities, multiplying the NYPD’s established success in identifying and seizing illegal cars, trucks, SUVs, and other vehicles being driven on our roadways,” said NYPD Interim Police Commissioner Thomas G. Donlon. “This is the clear mandate of our newest interagency task force and the next step toward breaking the well-known link between violent crime and unregistered vehicles.”

“Red light and speed cameras save lives and keep New Yorkers safe. Drivers that use forged, obstructed, or altered plates to cheat the system put all of us at risk,” said New York City Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “Getting ghost cars off our streets improves the lives of hard-working New Yorkers who follow the rules. We thank Mayor Adams, DSNY, NYPD, and our sister agencies for all their work to get these vehicles off the roads.”

Current city and state enforcement efforts against ghost cars — which have been used in everything from hit-and-run collisions to robberies and shootings — focus on enforcing against these automobiles while in motion, on the streets, or at toll plazas. This new task force will apply interagency best practices to the rest of the day, when these unregistered, uninsured, or stolen vehicles are parked. This mirrors a prior interagency collaboration between the NYPD and DSNY on a related issue — removing abandoned and derelict vehicles from streets. In the first year of that effort, the Abandoned Vehicle Task Force — structured similarly, with NYPD officers detailed to DSNY — the number of vehicles removed from city streets by DSNY more than doubled.

The vehicles seized by this task force will be held at NYPD lots where they will be processed and either claimed, auctioned, or destroyed after all investigations are complete.

This work builds on additional ongoing efforts to combat ghost cars. In March, Mayor Adams, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, and Metropolitan Transportation Authority Chair and CEO Janno Lieber launched a multi-agency, city-state ghost car task force. The task force includes the NYPD, the New York City Sheriff’s Office, MTA Bridge and Tunnel officers, the New York State Police, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Police Department. On Saturday, the task force completed its 41^st operation; in those operations, the task force made 490 arrests, issued 20,640 summonses, and seized 2,303 vehicles whose owners owed a total of over $21 million in unpaid tolls, taxes, fees, and more.

“Today, we are going full throttle to rid our city of the pervasive ‘ghost cars.’ There have been over 20,000 complaints of phony paper plates since their advent during the pandemic,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Drivers of these untraceable cars are using these plates to commit crimes, cover up stolen vehicles, evade their fair share of tolls, and violate traffic laws with impunity. Presumably none of them are carrying insurance, spelling disaster if they are in an accident. This partnership between the NYPD and DSNY, with 15 law enforcement officers devoted exclusively to ghost car removal, will accelerate enforcement to get these dangerous cars off our streets. We have already made incredible progress, removing 295 ghost cars in five days. I am working at the state level to give the city even more enforcement tools, including empowering law enforcement to use VINs to issue summonses when there is a phony plate. Together, we will be the exorcist that banishes the ghost cars haunting New York City.”

“As I highlighted in my Ghost Car Governance report last month, for years bad actors with defaced, obscured, or fraudulent plates have been speeding and running red lights with impunity as well as avoiding paying their fair share in tolls,” said Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine. “Expanding enforcement against ghost cars is how we make our streets safer and penalize drivers who are trying to cheat the system. Thank you to DSNY and the NYPD for partnering on this important work.”

“Vehicles with fake, forged, or altered plates are an insult to the hundreds of thousands of law-abiding Staten Islanders who play by the rules and honestly pay their tolls, car insurance payments, and other associated costs. Worse yet, these vehicles are often used by unscrupulous actors to commit shootings, grand larceny autos, and other more serious crimes,” said Staten Island District Attorney Michael E. McMahon. “‘Ghost Cars’ ‘are a massive public safety issue and contribute to New Yorkers’ sense that lawlessness is rampant and perpetrated without consequence in our city. However, thanks to Mayor Eric Adams, the NYPD, and DSNY, the tide is turning as additional resources and manpower have been allocated which finally empower law enforcement to crack down on vehicles with counterfeit license plates and toll violators. With over 2,200 ‘Ghost Cars’ taken off our streets so far, I look forward to working alongside our partners in law enforcement to remove even more of these law-breaking vehicles from our community to improve quality of life and help keep Staten Island the safest borough in all of New York City.”

MAYOR ADAMS TO HOST INAUGURAL NATIONAL URBAN RAT SUMMIT

Summit Will Bring Researchers, Municipal Rodent
Control Experts Together to Share Best Practices

September Summit Comes as Administration Advances Whole-of-Government Integrated Pest
Management Approach, Including Coordinating Citywide Efforts, Containerizing Garbage

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced additional speakers and details for the city’s inaugural National Urban Rat Summit, taking place this Wednesday and Thursday. Following introductory remarks from New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan and Dr. Matt Frye from the New York state Integrated Pest Management Program at Cornell University, the first day will focus on academic presentations from researchers and municipal experts from cities in the United States and Canada. The summit’s second day will focus on a framework for urban rat mitigation challenges, encompassing parks, sewers, construction sites, public housing, yards and alleys, and trash containerization.

“I’m excited to welcome my fellow generals in the ‘War on Rats’ to our great city for the inaugural National Urban Rat Summit,” said Mayor Adams. “Thanks to our citywide integrated pest management strategy and our ‘Trash Revolution,’ we are giving rats the boot, driving down rat sightings, and improving quality of life across the five boroughs. We’re looking forward to sharing new strategies and best practices for rat mitigation and reduction over the course of the summit.”

“Rat mitigation is a core public health issue in New York City,” said DOHMH Commissioner Dr. Vasan. “Freedom from the threat of diseases rats carry, and from the stress and fear rat sightings can trigger — these are basic human needs. Every day, our team is equipping New Yorkers from all walks of life with data-driven, evidence-based strategies for a cleaner, safer, more livable city.”

“The National Urban Rat Summit is a dedicated step forward in municipal rat management. We are thrilled to create a space for academic researchers and municipalities to come together and have meaningful dialog about a path towards sustainable, urban rat reduction,” said Citywide Director of Rodent Mitigation Kathy Corradi. “This collaborative, science-based approach to New York City’s rat mitigation, along with the tremendous efforts from city agencies, will ensure an improved quality of life for all New Yorkers.”

“Since the start of this administration, we’ve been dedicated to improving the quality of life for all New Yorkers. Thanks to our citywide sanitation and public health initiatives, including the work of our rodent mitigation team, we’ve seen real progress in communities all across the city,” said Chief of Staff Camille Joseph Varlack. “I’m thrilled to see Mayor Adams, Director Corradi, and our partners convene experts from across the nation for New York’s inaugural National Urban Rat Summit. This summit will build on the tremendous progress already made, bringing together the best minds to address rodent mitigation challenges and enhance our strategic, holistic approach. Together, we’re committed to ridding this city of rats once and for all.”

“Rats will find no purchase here, there, or anywhere, not if the experts at the first-ever National Urban Rat Summit have anything to say for it,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “As we containerize the city’s trash and upgrade our outdoor dining landscape, we know the war is not yet won — which is why we’re pulling together this summit, so that New York and our sister cities can share best practices for urbanites across the continent.”

“The single best way to finally beat the rats is to get their food off the streets and into containers — and that’s what the Adams administration is doing, with a plan to finally shut down the all-you-can-eat rat buffet,” said New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) Commissioner Jessica Tisch.

“New York City Public Schools is proud to help lead the charge in the fight against rats, embracing important prevention efforts like containerization,” said New York City Public Schools Chancellor David C. Banks. “I’m grateful to this administration and our partner agencies for all they do to make this city more livable for our youngest New Yorkers.”

“As a pillar area of the 2019 HUD Agreement, pests represent a significant priority in NYCHA’s mission to provide decent, affordable housing to public housing residents,” said New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) Chief Executive Officer Lisa Bova-Hiatt. “Through the use of our integrated pest management strategy, NYCHA has experienced a 62 percent decrease in rodents across the portfolio since 2018, ultimately improving the quality of our residents’ lives. Our work continues, and we are very excited to attend the inaugural National Urban Rat Summit to collaborate with other agencies facing similar challenges and continue honing our expertise in this area.”

“Reducing the rodent population is vital for creating healthier, cleaner cities, while maintaining a balanced urban ecosystem,” said New York City Department of Parks & Recreation (NYC Parks) Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “With support from Mayor Adams and Cornell University, this summit will foster collaboration between cities nationwide on effective strategies to keep rats at bay. By targeting the root causes of infestations — limiting food sources and addressing high-burrow areas — NYC Parks will continue taking decisive action to make a lasting impact on the rat population and improve quality of life across the city.”

“HPD, especially our housing inspectors, know all too well about the impacts and dangers of rat infestations,” said New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) Commissioner Adolfo Carrión, Jr. “Today marks a milestone for New York City as we host the inaugural National Urban Rat Summit, bringing invaluable expertise to our fight against rats. We’re ready to learn from our government partners and experts across the country to add new solutions to our pest-fighting toolbox and create a healthier, safer city.”

Additional speakers at the summit will include:

Maddie Baker, operations manager, Bryant Park Corporation
Josey Bartlett, vice president of pest management, NYCHA
Caroline Bragdon, director of neighborhood interventions, DOHMH
Gerard Brown, rodent and vector control program manager, Department of Health, Washington, D.C.
Kaylee Byers, Simon Fraser University, British Columbia, Canada
Bobby Corrigan, research scientist, DOHMH
Leah Helms, health and environmental investigator Seattle & Kings County Public Health Service, Washington
Chelsea Himsworth, University of British Columbia, Canada
Rebecca Kriegman, executive director of policy and planning, DSNY
Maureen H. Murry, Lincoln Park Zoo Urban Wildlife Institute, Chicago, Illinois
Jonathan Richardson, University of Richmond, Richmond, Virginia
Claudia Riegel, director, City of New Orleans Mosquito and Termite Control Board, Louisiana
John Ulrich, assistant commissioner of environmental services, City of Boston, Massachusetts

The summit comes as New York City continues to make progress in implementing a holistic integrated pest management strategy, focused on identifying rat hotspots and removing conditions that allow rats to thrive. In April 2023, Mayor Adams appointed Kathleen Corradi as citywide director of rodent mitigation and announced the new Harlem Rat Mitigation Zone, the city’s fourth dedicated zone. Director Corradi has played a vital role in developing, coordinating, and executing rat mitigation efforts across city agencies, in addition to different private-sector partners.

Included in Mayor Adams’ holistic integrated pest management strategy is the city’s efforts, led by DSNY Commissioner Tisch, to containerize all 14 billion pounds of trash that the city currently produces every year. For decades, that trash sat on the street in black plastic bags for as long as a full day at a time, attracting rats and stinking up New York City neighborhoods. The Adams administration rejected that status quo and has already implemented DSNY rules requiring that all 7 billion annual pounds of business trash go into containers. Later this fall, when container requirements go into effect for low-density residential buildings — those with one to nine units — approximately 70 percent of all trash in the city will be containerized. Additionally, the administration developed an all-new, automated, side-loading garbage truck that will allow the city to containerize trash from high-density buildings using stationary on-street containers. As a result, Manhattan Community Board 9 will be the first district with 100 percent of its trash containerized and serviced next year. 

Additionally, NYC Parks is implementing a robust approach to rat control in the city’s parks, with the goal of addressing the underlying conditions that support rat colonies. As a part of their effort to significantly decrease rats in parks with high burrow counts, NYC Parks will continue to limit access to potential food sources by rodents and target the places where they burrow.

Further, DOHMH conducts proactive inspections and complaint inspections enforcement. The agency uses a targeted strategy that extends to Rat Mitigation Zones, where city agencies focus resources to address rats and the conditions that support them. Other efforts to reduce rat activity range from technical assistance to extermination to education to public engagement.

There are currently four DOHMH-established Rat Mitigation Zones that encompass nearly 200 New York City public school buildings. New York City Public Schools’ efforts have included two distinct but collaborative pieces: extermination and waste operations. Rodents are addressed through extermination services, as well as support for proper waste management procedures at each impacted school to reduce conditions conducive to rats.

Finally, NYCHA has designated 45 exterminators to treat NYCHA public spaces, in addition to rolling out training on more efficient methods of treating grounds. They have also invested in more effective equipment that puts pesticides directly into rat burrows, as well as non-pesticide mitigation methods like carbon dioxide tanks, carbon monoxide-based Burrow Rx machines, and snap traps. Additionally, they have launched an exclusion team that seals window vents to basements and a rat burrow collapse team that collapses rat burrows, aiding in the prevention of mating and overall tracking of active rat colonies.

As a result of the administration’s broader integrated pest management approach, rat sightings reported to 311 continue to decline. Rat sightings have decreased in 12 out of the 13 months since the administration kicked off its revolutionary efforts to get trash off the streets and since Mayor Adams appointed Corradi as director of citywide rodent mitigation. The total decrease across the covered period was 6.3 percent and almost 14 percent in the city’s Rat Mitigation Zones.

MAYOR ADAMS CELEBRATES MILESTONE IN CONNECTING NEW YORKERS TO JOBS, TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES, BUILDING ON RECORD-BREAKING JOB GROWTH

8,500 New Yorkers Connected to Jobs and Free Training Resources at 26 Hiring Halls Over Six Months in Neighborhoods with Highest Unemployment Rate

Nearly 90 Percent of Attendees, 96 Percent of Employers and Partners Surveyed Left ‘Satisfied’ with Hiring Hall Experience

Announcements Comes as Adams Administration Recently Celebrated Approximate 30 Percent Reduction in Black and Latino Unemployment

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and the New York City Mayor’s Office of Talent and Workforce (NYC Talent) today announced nearly 8,500 job-seeking New Yorkers were connected to employment, free training, and workforce development resources over six months through the “Jobs NYC is a multi-pronged citywide effort to reduce barriers to economic opportunities and deliver workforce development services directly to communities across the five boroughs that are experiencing high unemployment. Mayor Adams hosted 26 “hiring halls” between February and July of this year with community-based organizations and potential employers in an effort to bring both public- and private-job opportunities and career services to economically-disadvantaged communities. Nearly 90 percent of attendees and 96 percent of employers and partners surveyed left “satisfied” with their hiring hall experience. Today’s announcement comes as the city recently celebrated an approximate 30 percent reduction in Black and Latino unemployment since the start of the Adams administration. To find job opportunities, free training, and employment resources, New Yorkers can visit the Jobs NYC website.

“The vision of ‘Jobs NYC’ was to build a city where opportunity reaches every borough, block, and neighborhood. With this announcement, we have come one step closer to turning that vision into a reality and connecting more New Yorkers with a good-paying job,” said Mayor Adams. “‘Jobs NYC’ delivered more than just jobs — it helped forge relationships between private- and public-sector partners and underserved communities, provided free trainings and resource, and created opportunities right in the backyards of New Yorkers. While today our administration celebrates delivering city resources to zip codes that have been ignored for far too long, tomorrow, we continue the work of making sure each and every New Yorker can participate in the city’s shared economy prosperity.”

“From day one, the Adams administration has been committed to our promise of delivering well-paying jobs for working-class New Yorkers,” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “In the past, our hardest working Black and Latino communities were also some of our most underserved communities. This administration said ‘no more’ and launched ‘Jobs NYC’ — an unprecedented multi-pronged effort that sought to address this historical injustice by bringing together an array of city agencies, private employers, and workforce partners to deliver career opportunities and resources. ‘Jobs NYC’ has been a resounding success, and I look forward to continuing this work to ensure that all New Yorkers, regardless of their background, are provided with a strong path to economic mobility.”

“There is profound dignity and reward in work,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “Whether serving at a local nonprofit, government, or corporate entity, jobs are a pathway to stability for individuals and families all over our city. ‘Jobs NYC’ has connected 8,500 people, and counting, to meaningful workforce resources, experience, and opportunities. We will continue to connect as many people as possible to work and we will continue tackling systemic and structural issues to make our city more affordable and livable for all.”

“This administration is dedicated to improving the lives of working-class people, and a critical piece of that is connecting New Yorkers to quality careers with family-sustaining wages,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “With ‘Jobs NYC,’ we sought to be extremely proactive in meeting New Yorkers where they are, bringing a breadth of public and private resources and career opportunities directly to them in their communities. The remarkable progress ‘Jobs NYC’ has made in its first six months in reaching and serving New Yorkers is proof that this approach works, and we look forward to developing ‘Jobs NYC’ as a model for how the city and our private partners can improve the lives of New Yorkers citywide.”

“The early success of the ‘Jobs NYC’ pilot program bolsters Mayor Adams’ vision for a targeted, place-based, and in-person campaign to match employers with job seekers in key communities,” said Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Ana Almanzar. “I’ve attended several ‘Jobs NYC’ hiring hall events throughout the summer, and each time I’m impressed by the driven New Yorkers who are taking advantage of the available training programs, job openings, and public benefits in order to propel themselves further along in their career trajectories. Their energy and enthusiasm were matched by our city agencies, nonprofit partners, and private employers — all of whom recognized that this city’s greatest resources are its people and the unique skills they bring to the workplace.”

“To meet people where they are, build an inclusive economy where every New Yorker contributes to and benefits from shared prosperity, and remove luck out of the equation, the Adams administration designed Jobs NYC as a whole-of-government strategy to bring resources, job opportunities, and training opportunities to communities — one in each borough with the highest unemployment rates,” said NYC Talent Executive Director Abby Jo Sigal. “‘Jobs NYC’ delivered by partnering closely with businesses, trusted community organizations, and city agencies to organize hiring halls where job seekers received employment services, including on-site interviews, job offers, and access to free and low-cost upskilling training programs.”

“Thanks to the visionary leadership of Mayor Adams, First Deputy Mayor Wright, and NYC Talent Executive Director Abby Jo Sigal, New York City’s collective workforce resources are no longer a light beneath a bushel basket,” said New York City Small Business Services (SBS) Acting Commissioner Dynishal Gross. “‘Jobs NYC’ delivers resources to the New Yorkers who need them most, and connects them to the jobs, skills, and support needed to build stable, fulfilling careers. SBS and our network of Workforce1 Career Centers will continue to work with our partners across the city to realize the full potential of the ‘Jobs NYC’ model in the months and years to come, and to realize our shared mission of creating economic opportunity for all.”

Chaired by First Deputy Mayor Wright, with Deputy Mayors Torres-Springer, Almanzar, and Williams-Isom as co-chairs, Jobs NYC brings a whole-of-government approach to building a more equitable city through workforce development. Working across nearly two dozen city agencies, in addition to partnering with community organizations and private partners, the Adams administration’s revamped hiring halls took place in each borough on a monthly basis in areas of the city experiencing employment disparities. In addition to connecting New Yorkers with job opportunities in the municipal workforce — the hiring halls provided jobseekers with the unique opportunity to engage with multiple organizations, including employers interviewing for roles and community-based organizations connecting talent to training and other opportunities.

In June 2023, DCAS began reducing barriers to employment within city government by reforming the city’s Minimum Qualification Requirements for entry level civil service titles. To date, DCAS has completed review on 17 entry-level titles with the potential to impact 20,000 jobs and expand eligibility for civil service positions that were previously restrictive and posed difficult for many applicants to meet minimum qualifications. Previous requirements for these positions mandated a college degree or credits, but with this updated review, the city is now more inclusive and equitable, focusing on relevant work experience and practical skills rather than formal education.

Building on the success of the previous hiring halls, NYC Talent and SBS will continue holding regular hiring halls, with the next one being held on September 26th from 10:00AM to 2:00PM at the Queens Workforce 1 Center at 16825 Jamaica Ave Ste 2, Jamaica, NY 11432.

The Adams administration has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in creating good-paying, family-sustaining, public- and private-sector jobs for New Yorkers. The administration has launched and advanced transformative projects in all five boroughs, including projects ranging from the Kingsbridge Armory in the Bronx, to the Brooklyn Army Terminal and Brooklyn Marine Terminal in Brooklyn, to SPARC Kips Bay in Manhattan, to Willets Point in Queens, to the North Shore Action Plan on Staten Island. Cumulatively, these projects will create tens of thousands of permanent and temporary construction jobs, generate more than $100 billion in long-term economic impact, and cultivate good-paying, 21st-century job opportunities.

Additionally, the administration launched “Run This Town,” a multi-media advertising campaign to engage diverse New Yorkers and help them apply for thousands of available city government jobs. Both campaigns are expected to further reduce the unacceptable disparities in employment between Black, Latino, and white communities. The city is also on track to deliver over 14,000 apprenticeship opportunities by the end of 2024 — ahead of schedule and nearly halfway towards the moonshot goal announced last year at Mayor Adams’ 2023 State of the City address.

NYC Talent announced expanded workforce services for New Yorkers with disabilities and celebrated a hiring milestone for this community. Further, earlier this summer, Mayor Adams announced the city’s first-ever community hiring effort, which will leverage more than $1.2 billion in city contracts to create job opportunities for underserved New Yorkers. Community hiring allows the city to use its purchasing power, set hiring goals across city procurement contracts, and build on the success of existing project labor agreements and agency-specific hiring programs.

In the last 19 months, Mayor Adams has successfully negotiated contracts with unions representing nearly 97 percent of the city’s workforce and 100 percent of the city’s uniformed workforce — the quickest any mayoral administration has reached that milestone in modern city history. These agreements with District Council 37, Communications Workers of America Local 1180, the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association, Uniformed Sanitation Workers’ Union Local 831, the United Federation of Teachers, the Police Benevolent Association, the Uniformed Officers Coalition, the Council of School Supervisors and Administrators, Teamsters Local 237, the United Probation Officers’ Association, and dozens of other unions have all included wage increases, including retroactive wage increases for employees that had not received a raise in years. Additionally, many of these contracts included dedicated funding to address retention and recruitment challenges and other important benefits, such as the child care fund established in the agreement with DC 37.

“The success of ‘Jobs NYC’ is a testament to the power of bringing resources directly to the communities that need them most,” said New York City Public Engagement Unit (PEU) Executive Director Adrienne Lever. “Our outreach efforts have shown us just how vital it is to meet New Yorkers where they are. By directly engaging with communities and spreading the word about the hiring halls, PEU is making it easier for people to connect with opportunities that can change their lives.”

“For young adults, especially those who are justice-involved or formerly incarcerated, a well-paying job is transformative — something I have seen up close when meeting with candidates, families, and friends at the hiring halls,” said New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) Commissioner Keith Howard. “The success of ‘Jobs NYC’ has helped promote Mayor Adams’ forward vision to grow the city’s economy and provide equitable job opportunities in communities with the highest unemployment rates and crime. DYCD is proud to continue supporting the hiring halls by providing logistics, offering interviews and career guidance, and collecting resumes for future professional opportunities at DYCD. We look forward to putting even more New Yorkers on the path to career and life success.”

“When we take a people-centered approach that is also data-driven and focuses on the areas and communities in greatest need, we deliver on the promise of building a more vibrant city where all New Yorkers can thrive,” said Acting Chief Engagement Officer Crystal Price. “The Jobs NYC initiative delivers on the vision of making the City of New York a place where all New Yorkers can prosper. I am excited to support the continued success of ‘Jobs NYC,’ which seeks to empower our communities by connecting them to much-needed resources and opportunities.”

“With record job growth in the past year, Mayor Adams’ ‘Jobs NYC’ initiative is just another example of this administration’s commitment to growth and equity throughout the five boroughs,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Andrew Kimball. “I applaud the Adams administration for their unwavering support for expanding training, workforce development, and employment opportunities for all New Yorkers.

“We are proud to be part of ‘Jobs NYC,’ the city’s innovative approach to bringing job opportunities and training to communities across the city,” said Mayor’s Office for Economic Opportunity Executive Director Carson Hicks. “It is exciting to see that its multi-pronged approach of hiring halls, the ‘Jobs NYC’ website, and other strategies is already making a real difference in the lives of New Yorkers.”

“With nearly 9,000 new job seekers connected with agencies and receiving training resources, the success of the ‘Jobs NYC’ initiative is a testament to our commitment to breaking down barriers and opening doors for all New Yorkers,” said New York City Department for Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) Commissioner Louis A. Molina. “At DCAS, we’re proud to have played a crucial role in this effort by not only helping to launch the hiring hall model, but also by leading the charge to reform the city’s Minimum Qualification Requirements, focusing on relevant experience rather than formal education. Through ‘Jobs NYC,’ we’re making it easier for thousands of New Yorkers to access stable, good-paying jobs within city government, creating lasting opportunities for economic equity across our city.”

“Breaking down barriers for diverse communities is a central focus of this administration. That’s why ‘Jobs NYC’ is taking bold, on-the-ground action to combat unemployment and inequality in collaboration with community partners,” said New York City Chief Equity Officer and New York City Mayor’s Office of Equity & Racial Justice Commissioner Sideya Sherman. “We are proud to support this whole-of-government effort to connect communities with quality public- and private-sector jobs, free training programs, and other critical resources. The impact is clear: as we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to closing systemic gaps to unemployment and underemployment and ensuring opportunity for all.”

“Smart planning pays dividends in good jobs and economic benefits. We’re proud to have helped create a more vibrant and prosperous economy for New Yorkers by advancing transformative projects across the five boroughs and updating commercial zoning regulations with ‘City of Yes for Economic Opportunity,’” said New York City Department of City Planning Director Dan Garodnick. “We are continuing to build on this work with ‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity’ — a historic proposal that would lower housing costs for all New Yorkers, create over 250,000 jobs, and add $58.2 billion to the city’s economy.”

“Ensuring that opportunity and prosperity reaches every corner of the city requires a comprehensive approach, which prioritizes economically-disadvantaged neighborhoods and leverages the power of government to bring a diverse array of career training and opportunities directly to New Yorkers in these communities,” said New York City Department of Social Services Commissioner Molly Wasow Park. “‘Jobs NYC’ did just, and we are proud to have played a role in this initiative, which has helped thousands of New Yorkers access employment and career development resources. We thank all those who participated in these hiring halls and look forward to building on this progress through Human Resources Administration’s career services programs and in partnership with other agencies.”

“Mayor Adams’ ‘Get Stuff Done’ approach continues to prove that public-private partnerships can achieve great things for all New Yorkers, particularly those who’ve traditionally been left behind during times of economic growth,” said New York City Chief Business Diversity Officer Michael J. Garner. “Unfortunately, systemic disparities do not only exist in city contracting, but also in other important areas like gainful employment and career upward mobility, which prevent our most disadvantaged communities from partaking in the American Dream and its rewards. This administration’s successes in lowering both the Black and Hispanic unemployment rate by approximately 30 percent, among other key workforce development achievements, has the added benefit of allowing more communities to meaningfully participate in their local economies, invest in homeownership opportunities, and expand the city’s taxpayer base — allowing for critical municipal investments in areas of need. I commend all our partners who’ve made the hiring halls initiative a success.”

“We commend the Adams administration for connecting thousands of New Yorkers — including New York City Housing Authority residents — to career development resources through these hiring halls, some of which were held on our property,” said New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) Chief Executive Officer Lisa Bova-Hiatt. “As we know, equitable job opportunities can result in life changing outcomes, so NYCHA is proud to have assisted with outreach and recruitment at these events, and we applaud all of the partners and participants for making this ‘Jobs NYC’ initiative a reality.”

“The success of Mayor Adams’ hiring halls speaks volumes about the power of community-focused initiatives,” said New York State Senator James Sanders Jr. “Connecting thousands of New Yorkers to jobs and training opportunities is exactly what our city needs. The reduction in unemployment among Black and Latino communities is significant and shows real progress. We must continue to build on this momentum. This is how we create lasting change.”

“Today we reach a new milestone in our record job growth,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “In only six months, we hosted 26 hiring halls in neighborhoods with the highest unemployment, connecting 8,500 people with job placements and career development opportunities. We have uplifted thousands of our fellow New Yorkers, allowing them to stand on their own two feet. These hiring halls are a cornerstone of our work that has resulted in New York City having the most jobs in history. I am proud to partner with Mayor Adams in this work, helping to pass the community hiring bill in Albany to bring more job opportunities to our underserved communities in New York City. Together, we will make New York City the global epicenter of job creation, giving everyone access to unparalleled opportunity.”

“‘Jobs NYC’ is doing a great job of breaking down the barriers that often prevent New Yorkers— especially Black and Latino New Yorkers —from taking advantage of job opportunities,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “There is an abundance of untapped talent in Queens and across our city. ‘Jobs NYC’ is helping connect that talent with employers who are ready and willing to hire.”

“We are supportive of any effort to help people find a job,” said Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella. “We should do all we can to create a business-friendly climate in New York City to keep and to attract employers. We also applaud Mayor Adams’ initiative to maintain hiring halls that have been helpful for those who may be looking to start or advance in a career. We support Mayor Adams’ focus on growing the economy and highlighting opportunities for anybody looking for a job.”

“The Jobs Council commends the ‘Jobs NYC’ initiative for its success in connecting nearly 8,500 job-seeking New Yorkers to essential employment and training resources,” Kiersten Barnet, executive director, New York Jobs CEO Council. “This achievement highlights the impact of place-based workforce development strategies and the power of public-private partnerships to engage employers with the city’s talent pipeline”

“Today’s announcement reflects the interest and investment that the Adams administration has put toward a ‘Working People’s Agenda.’ As a partner in the city’s multi-pronged efforts to put more New Yorkers on pathways to quality jobs, we are encouraged by the results we see — more hires, less workforce ecosystem fragmentation,” said Gregory J. Morris, CEO, New York City Employment and Training Coalition. “How we—as a city—maintain our relentless and resourced commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, ensure the sustainable linkage of economic and workforce development, and prepare New York talent to meet the needs of our employers, particularly in emerging industries, will play a meaningful role in our city’s future success. The impact of these efforts will not only uplift individual lives, but will also strengthen the fabric of our communities, driving long-term prosperity for all New Yorkers.”

“The ‘Jobs NYC’ initiative is a vital step towards reducing barriers to economic opportunity and increasing access to employment directly to New York City communities. JobsFirstNYC has been happy to support the city’s efforts at six Hiring Halls by bringing our ‘Skills Mapping’ program to more than 400 individuals representing 49 zip codes across all five boroughs,” said Marjorie Parker, chief executive officer and president, JobsFirstNYC. “ JobsFirstNYC launched ‘Skills Mapping’ in partnership with SkyHive to help individuals understand their current skills, explore careers and related-skills in demand, connect to skills training, and match to jobs based on skills instead of degrees. Our unique skills mapping process equipped hiring hall attendees with increased awareness of available jobs and a strong understanding of how their skills align with those opportunities. It also revealed that many participants possess diverse essential or soft skills that make them well-suited for a variety of open positions, highlighting the untapped talent in our communities and reinforcing the importance of skills-focused hiring that prioritizes experience over degrees. By emphasizing diverse strengths, we can work towards bridging the gaps in our workforce and ensure that employers can access the qualified talent they need to thrive.”

ADAMS ADMINISTRATION BREAKS GROUND ON NEW STAPLETON WATERFRONT ESPLANADE, PART OF DEVELOPMENT THAT WILL INCLUDE 2,100 UNITS OF HOUSING, NEW 600-SEAT PUBLIC SCHOOL City, Elected Officials, Community Leaders Celebrate Progress Made on ‘Staten Island North Shore Action Plan’ — $400 Million Investment and Vision for Vibrant Mixed-Use Community

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced his administration has broken ground on 12 acres of interconnected public open space on the New Stapleton Waterfront, continuing the progress the administration has made on its Staten Island North Shore Action Plan. The action plan — announced by Mayor Adams and New York City Councilmember Kamillah Hanks in September 2023 — outlines a four-year roadmap for a clear and unified vision for the future of Staten Island’s North Shore, with $400 million in city investment, over 20 acres of public space, more than 7,500 family-sustaining jobs, and $3.8 billion in economic impact over 30 years. As a part of this plan, the administration is transforming a 35-acre former United States naval base into a new mixed-use community on the New Stapleton Waterfront, set within a framework of open space and esplanades. In total, the New Stapleton Waterfront will bring over 2,100 mixed-income residential units, ground floor retail, a 600-seat public school, additional community facilities, and 12 acres of interconnected public open space to Staten Island’s North Shore.

“We’ve made it clear: In our administration, Staten Island is no longer the forgotten borough,” said Mayor Adams. “We’ve made tremendous progress on our North Shore Action Plan in the 12 months since we announced our $400 million investment in new housing, jobs, education, and open space on Staten Island, and by breaking ground on 12 acres of new public space on the New Stapleton Waterfront, we are making clear that we won’t stop until we deliver on all our promises to this community.”

“This administration is committed to finding underutilized public land and activating that land for the public good. The North Shore Action Plan is doing just that, turning two miles of vacant, inaccessible coastline into thousands of homes and jobs and over 20 acres of public open space,” said Deputy Mayor of Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “In just a year since announcing this plan, major progress has been made on every component and in every neighborhood. I want to thank the NYCEDC team for their tireless efforts on this project, as well as Councilmember Kamillah Hanks for her steadfast support.”

“Breaking ground on the next phase of this mixed-use waterfront site marks another key milestone in the Adams administration’s commitment to Staten Island’s North Shore,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) President & CEO Andrew Kimball. “In the year since announcing the Action Plan, from housing to greenspace, significant progress has been made on bringing to life a revitalized North Shore that has long been promised to Staten Islanders.”

“Improving connectivity is integral to DOT’s mission and we are thrilled to be able more easily bring North Shore residents to their waterfront with new open space — including new, dedicated space for pedestrians and cyclists,” said New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “This project will deliver new housing and jobs and improve safety for everyone traveling along Front Street and will complement our planning for a greenway along the North Shore waterfront. We thank Mayor Adams, NYCEDC, and NYC Parks for their coordination and efforts to invest in the community.”

“We’re thrilled to celebrate the groundbreaking for 12 acres of new open space, the latest phase of the North Shore Action Plan that’s making vital and long-promised infrastructure improvements for Staten Island. In addition to improving waterfront access and creating new housing and jobs, this major investment will provide the borough with its first new NYC Parks recreation center in over 14 years,” said New York City Department of Parks and Recreation (NYC Parks) Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “We’re grateful to Mayor Adams, NYCEDC, and Councilmember Hanks for their commitment to revitalizing the North Shore and making it a more vibrant place for New Yorkers and visitors alike.”

“This groundbreaking marks a significant milestone in our work to create a brighter future for the North Shore,” said New York City Department of City Planning Director and City Planning Commission Chair Dan Garodnick. “With new homes, jobs, waterfront open space, and amenities, the New Stapleton Waterfront is truly a Staten Island success story. And with ‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity,’ we can achieve many more wins towards our goal of a more affordable, vibrant New York.”

“As a lifelong resident of Staten Island’s North Shore, I am incredibly proud to see the vision for our community taking shape,” said New York City Councilmember Kamillah M. Hanks. “The groundbreaking on the New Stapleton Waterfront Esplanade is a significant milestone in our efforts to bring vibrant, sustainable development to this area. This project not only represents an investment in much-needed housing and public space but also a commitment to building a stronger future for our families, creating opportunities for local jobs, and enhancing the quality of life for all Staten Islanders. I look forward to the positive impact this development will have on generations to come.”

Today’s groundbreaking most immediately focuses on the rehabilitation of Front Street to improve vehicular traffic and introduce pedestrian and bicycle connectivity. Additional improvements will also include roadway realignment, new roadside lighting, separate pedestrian and cycling paths, roadside planters featuring native plants, and additional pedestrian crosswalks.

In the year since launching the North Shore Action Plan, the city has already advanced many of its initiatives, including:

In September 2023, the Tompkinsville Esplanade received its ULURP (Uniform Land Use Review Process) approval from the City Council.
In November 2023, HPD released its RFP to redevelop the Jersey Street sanitation garage to include new housing and community amenities.
Shortly after, the NYCEDC released an RFP for the former New York Wheel site, now known as the North Shore Entertainment and Amusement site, which will deliver a premier recreational destination for the region with entertainment, amusement, and retail uses along with over seven acres of public open space.
In January, NYCEDC and DOT released an RFP for a concession operator aboard the Staten Island Ferry.
In February, Mayor Adams and NYC Parks broke ground on the Mary Cali Dalton Recreation Center in Tompkinsville, the first groundbreaking for a recreation center on Staten Island in over 14 years.
This past spring, NYCEDC released an RFP to redevelop two parcels of vacant land on the New Stapleton Waterfront, following demolition of existing structures completed last year. That redevelopment will create more than 500 market rate and affordable housing units.

“This groundbreaking marks not only the one-year anniversary of the North Shore Action Plan, but the start of a new chapter for the North Shore waterfront,” said New York State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton. “Projects like this will create jobs, stimulating our local economy, and turn our waterfront into a destination that residents and visitors alike will come to. This is a testament to what can be achieved with community collaboration and city investment, and I am excited to see the positive impact this will have on my district.”

“I am honored to stand with our community partners to celebrate this significant milestone,” said New York State Assemblymember Charles D. Fall. “Our collective efforts and shared vision for a revitalized North Shore will drive economic growth and instill a renewed sense of pride in our community. Together, we will build a brighter future for our residents, ensuring that the North Shore remains a vibrant place to live, work, and grow.”

“We remain committed to enhance and to improve the North Shore Waterfront,” said Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella. “It is a jewel. Working together with Mayor Adams, Councilmember Hanks and others, we will ignite the engine and focus on smart, mixed-use developments that adds to the character of Staten Island, especially along the waterfront. We thank the mayor for his partnership.”

“For far too long, Staten Island’s North Shore waterfront represented nothing more than broken promises and wasted potential,” said Staten Island District Attorney Michael Mahon. “With breathtaking views of our city’s iconic and stunning skyline, our waterfront should be considered the crown jewel of our beloved borough – instead, it became a painful reminder of the inequities our borough faces compared to our neighboring counterparts. However, hope is on the horizon thanks to Mayor Eric Adams and Councilwoman Kamillah Hanks. Today, ground will be broken and progress hopefully made towards delivering an interconnected, public, and walkable North Shore waterfront for Staten Island. With plans for a new school, affordable housing, and over a dozen acres of interconnected open space for residents to enjoy, the development of our borough’s waterfront will go a long way towards not only improving public safety but fully realizing our borough’s true potential.”

“Community Board 1 is ecstatic to see a long-term plan come to fruition, including much needed school seats, housing, good paying jobs and most important community access to our waterfront,” said Nicholas Siclari, chair, Community Board 1. ”This plan will revitalize Stapleton and surrounding area. Thank you, Mayor Adams, Councilmember Kamillah Hanks and NYCEDC!”

“The Van Duzer Civic Association is thankful to Mayor Eric Adams, Councilmember Kamillah Hanks, Borough President Vito Fossella and NYCEDC for spearheading the new Stapleton Waterfront Esplanade,” said Peter Lisi, president, Van Duzer Civic Association. “Staten Island’s North Shore will finally receive the functional waterfront it deserves, just like the rest of New York City. Staten Island is no longer the forgotten borough. Demolition of multiple vacant and derelict buildings is already complete, paving the way to one of Staten Island’s greatest revitalization efforts. This project will finally spur the much-needed housing, school seats and open space waterfront access residents and tourists were promised for decades. New York City’s current elected administration heard the pleas for help from their constituents, then they came, saw, and conquered.”

“After many long years of discussion and advocacy, the St. George Civic Association is excited to see the North Shore Action Plan become a reality with today’s groundbreaking ceremony,” said Eileen Harrington, president, St. George Civic Association. “We are truly hopeful and look forward with anticipation as the work continues along the waterfront to St. George.”

MAYOR ADAMS OPENS NEW EAST RIVER PARK BALLFIELDS, DELANCEY STREET BRIDGE AS PART OF EAST SIDE COASTAL RESILIENCY

ESCR Will Protect 120,000 New Yorkers from Flooding by 2026 Completion Date — On Time and On Budget

WATCH: Overnight Installation of New Delancey Street Bridge

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today opened the new Ballfields 1 and 2 in East River Park — the first park areas that are part of the $1.45 billion East Side Coastal Resiliency (ESCR) to reopen to public use. Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi, New York City Department of Parks and Recreation (NYC Parks) Commissioner Sue Donoghue, and New York City Department of Design and Construction (DDC) Commissioner Thomas Foley welcomed New Yorkers back to the ballfields today, leading community members over the newly-constructed, ADA-accessible Delancey Street Bridge that spans the Franklin D. Roosevelt East River Drive.

“Keeping New Yorkers safe means building state-of-the-art projects to protect New Yorkers from climate change, while at the same time ensuring that New Yorkers have high-quality spaces to play ball,” said Mayor Adams. “That’s exactly what we’re doing here. We’re walking and chewing gum at the same time — fortifying our defenses and protecting our residents and city against sea level rise; safeguarding taxpayer dollars; and ensuring that we also get greener, cleaner, better public spaces in the process.”

“Our agencies are nothing if not creative in their efforts to protect New Yorkers from climate change and deliver needed public space. If that means building out, like the 34th Street esplanade, or up, as we’re doing here with ESCR, that’s what we’ll do,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “When this is all complete, on time and on budget, this will be a beautiful, airy park that shows no trace of the level of complexity that went into its planning. It’s a testament to our efforts to ensure all our infrastructure does double duty.”

“Today’s unveiling of the Delancey Street Pedestrian Bridge and East River Park Ballfields represents more than just new infrastructure; it stands as a testament to our commitment to resilience and community well-being,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “These projects not only provide crucial flood protection, but also create vibrant spaces for recreation, connecting our residents with their city and each other. They embody how integrating sustainability and innovative design can enhance our urban landscape and ensure a brighter, greener future for all New Yorkers.”

“ESCR is not just about protecting 128,000 Lower East Side residents from flooding, it’s also increasing accessibility and making improvements to five important local recreation areas,” said DDC Commissioner Thomas Foley. “We’re happy to live up to our commitment to reopen this part of East River Park by the start of September little league season, and we remain on budget and on schedule to complete the entire project by the end of 2026. But even with this success, we know we can do better. Mayor Adams has called for alternate capital construction methods like progressive design-build for future resiliency projects, and we can save time and money that way if our current bill in Albany is signed into law.”

“The ADA-compliant Delancey Street Bridge and improved access points enhance the accessibility of the city’s public spaces for all New Yorkers, including those with disabilities,” said Mayor’s Office of People with Disabilities Commissioner Christina Curry. “These updates ensure that everyone can enjoy the park and its amenities, reflecting the importance of creating inclusive environments throughout the city.”

“As the climate has changed, so has our approach for keeping New Yorkers safe,” said Mayor’s Office of Climate and Environmental Justice Executive Director Elijah Hutchinson. “ESCR is an example of how we’re transforming our public spaces to protect New Yorkers, while also providing them with amenities like better ballfields and more green space that can be enjoyed for generations to come.”

“This latest phase of East Side Coastal Resiliency demonstrates New York City leading the way with double duty infrastructure, delivering critical upgrades that not only mitigate risk to protect residents but also enhance New Yorker’s quality of life with accessible waterfront recreation spaces,” said New York City Chief Infrastructure Officer Alison N. Landry. “I’m proud of collaboration across government on this project, and in particular DDC’s efforts with industry partners to implement capital process reform initiatives, saving taxpayer dollars and maintaining commitments to the community. With better tools, we can do better work to advance the city’s resiliency efforts, and I’m eager to see expanded alternative delivery legislation signed into law later this year.”

East River Park and Delancey Street Bridge

East River Park’s newly rebuilt Ballfields 1 and 2 now feature turf with an advanced drainage system for better maintenance, new stadium lighting for evening play, and new fencing around the perimeter. Through ESCR, new amenities are being added to the rest of the park, including upgrades to the amphitheater, ballfields, tennis courts, soccer and multi-use turf fields, track and field, basketball courts, playground, comfort stations, and picnic and barbeque areas. New passive-use areas will create enhanced spaces with grass and greenery, allowing expanded opportunities for relaxation and reflection along the East River waterfront. The Tennis House, Track House, and 10^th Street Comfort Station are also being reconstructed.

The new $32 million, 215-foot-long Delancey Street Bridge is one of the new access points to the park being created by ESCR, and it replaces a much smaller bridge with steeper ramps that was not ADA-compliant. The bridge was manufactured in Italy, assembled in East River Park, and then installed in only one evening over the highway. In addition to the new Delancey Street Bridge, the Corlears Hook and East 10^th Street Bridges will also be replaced with gently sloping entryways that will provide access for all New Yorkers, including those with disabilities.

East Side Coastal Resiliency

Most of the southern end of East River Park was closed in late 2021 when DDC began work on ESCR — a $1.45 billion project which is creating a flexible, 2.4-mile-long flood barrier on the Lower East Side from Montgomery Street up to Asser Levy Playground between East 23^rd Street and East 25^th Street. ESCR is employing raised parkland, floodwalls, berms, and 18 swinging or sliding flood gates to create a continuous line of protection against sea level rise and the growing threat of stronger, more severe coastal storms worsened by climate change. The project has been designed to improve waterfront access through reconstructed bridges and entry points and will also upgrade existing sewer systems to capture and manage precipitation during storms. The first floodgate — which is 42 feet long, 10 feet high, and 32,000 pounds — was installed in February 2022.

ESCR is making improvements to five recreation areas in total. Stuyvesant Cove Park has been rebuilt with new amenities and a combination of floodwalls and floodgates along its western edge. The 2.44-acre Asser Levy Playground — which is now intersected by a new floodwall and sliding floodgate — was partially rebuilt with extensive landscaping and new playground and basketball areas using resilient materials. Murphy Brothers Playground and Corlears Hook Park will also see improvements such as new landscaping, plantings, lighting, and playground equipment, with Murphy Brothers Playground expected to reopen this fall.

To the south of ESCR, DDC continues to make progress on Brooklyn Bridge-Montgomery Coastal Resiliency (BMCR) — the companion project to ESCR — which is currently installing flood gates along a 0.82-mile stretch of the Lower East Side from Montgomery Street south to the Brooklyn Bridge. BMCR is also creating numerous new recreation zones along its project area, such as open air seating, publicly-available fitness equipment, performance space, and more. Together, the two projects will form a 3.22-mile flood barrier when they are completed at the end of 2026.

MAYOR ADAMS TO RAMP UP ANNUAL SUPPORT TO $50 MILLION FOR OPIOID PREVENTION, TREATMENT, FROM MAJOR SETTLEMENTS SECURED BY CITY OF NEW YORK, ATTORNEY GENERAL JAMES

Builds on 2022 Investments Made to Improve Substance Use Care in Behavioral Health and Emergency Department Settings, Expand Health Services at Syringe Services Programs, Support Grieving Families

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today released the administration’s plans for applying $50 million in funding annually by Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 to combat the opioid addiction crisis New Yorkers continue to face. The funds — obtained through litigation efforts and settlements secured by both the New York City Law Department and the Office of New York Attorney General Letitia James — will support programming at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), NYC Health + Hospitals (NYC H+H), and the Office of Chief Medical Examiner (OCME) and build on the city’s initial investments by focusing on supporting programs operated by community-based partners, which are critical allies in the work to prevent and reduce overdoses.

In January 2018, the City of New York sued manufacturers and distributors of prescription opioids to remedy the harms caused within the city by the misleading marketing and improper distribution of these drugs. Attorney General James filed a similar lawsuit in March 2019. Settlements reached by both the city and the state, as well as a court victory by Attorney General James, have provided the city with over $154 million to-date, which is expected to total more than $500 million by 2040. In June 2022, Mayor Adams and Attorney General James announced allocations for the first of hundreds of millions of dollars coming to New York City to combat the opioid crisis.

“Too many New Yorkers, and too many Americans, have been lost to the opioid epidemic,” said Mayor Adams. “For years, drug companies knowingly hooked patients in pain on powerful opioids, raking in billions of dollars even as they knew they were causing harm. But New Yorkers were never going to let them get away with this. Because of the City of New York and New York State Attorney General James’ lawsuits against these companies, we are helping communities heal from this crisis. I thank Attorney General James for her staunch determination to fight for the victims of this crisis and their families. Today’s announcement lays out a plan for the next round of investments that will bring us to $50 million annually and allow us to expand access to treatment through community-based partners, strengthen harm reduction programs, and . We will always fight to protect our people, families, and communities, and this much-needed settlement money will help us do just that.”

“For far too long, the opioid crisis has left a trail of devastation across New York, tearing families and communities apart,” said Attorney General James. “We made a promise to New Yorkers to go after the companies responsible for this crisis, and, once again, we are making good on this commitment and delivering funds for treatment and prevention efforts. From new resources at New York City’s hospitals to on-the-ground education efforts in the most vulnerable neighborhoods, the funds that Mayor Adams is distributing today will go a long way in supporting our most vulnerable communities. I thank Mayor Adams and his administration for their continued work to tackle this crisis and support all those who are struggling.”

“If it were not for COVID-19, the opioid overdose crisis would be the single biggest public health issue of our time,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “While the pandemic has calmed, the opioid issue continues to persist, touching tens of thousands nationwide and thousands of families here in New York City. The investments announced today build upon those made with the first tranche of funds and continue to bolster supports for substance use programming in the community, improving access to resources. We are also strengthening our grasp of the issue with investments in data infrastructure and laboratory work to speed up toxicology testing to inform our public health and law enforcement communities. Ultimately, this plan will deliver resources where they are most needed and build the systems of support to help every individual and family touched by this issue.”

“We continue to lose too many New Yorkers to opioid overdose deaths,” said DOHMH Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan. “These funds will help keep our neighbors alive by providing critical connections to care in safe and supportive environments, access to treatment for opioid use disorder, and expanded access to life-saving overdose prevention services. DOHMH will continue to invest in a comprehensive approach, partnering with health care systems and trusted community organizations, and ensuring that all New Yorkers feel they can be a part of the solution to this public health crisis.”

“As the largest provider of behavioral health services in the city, our hospitals see thousands of patients each year who are battling opioid use disorder,” said NYC H+H President and CEO Mitchell Katz, MD. “The funds announced today will significantly expand our ability to reach more individuals in need, providing them with the critical support and treatment necessary to overcome addiction and reclaim their lives.”

“Timely and accurate data helps families cope with the loss of a loved one and gives our partner agencies crucial insights that inform strategies to prevent overdoses,” said New York City Chief Medical Examiner Jason Graham, MD. “These new investments will fortify our capacity to analyze information and deliver expedited results, while building on our outreach to grieving families expanded in prior investments. The overdose crisis is a multi-faceted emergency that must be approached from every possible angle to save lives.”

DOHMH Investments

DOHMH’s investments will total $24 million annually by FY26. In addition to the initial investment that supports expanded hours and syringe services programs at Overdose Prevention Centers, these funds will:

Support wraparound services for syringe service programs, including on-site medical care, connections to health care and social services, and support for basic needs.
Expand Relay, a non-fatal opioid overdose response program, to bring the total number of participating hospitals up to 17.
Expand recovery support for people with current or previous substance use disorders, including employment coaching, community-based support, and life-skills training.
Fund substance use disorder treatment providers to increase access to buprenorphine and methadone. In December 2023, the administration announced $3 million for providers on Staten Islan d to directly support the expansion of harm reduction, treatment, and recovery support services in the borough. Funds will be used for buprenorphine expansion, increasing outreach and engagement, and increasing care navigation services, among other services.

NYC H+H Investments

NYC H+H’s investments will total $22 million annually by FY27. In addition to the initial investment that supports substance use treatment and provider training across various settings in the system, these funds will:

Add addiction counselors to support addiction in birthing units across all 11 public hospitals in the system. This critical work will help expecting families and their children at a time of high risk and promote the administration’s goals to decrease maternal mortality.
Launch Addiction Response Teams, a new model that will provide expanded medical and behavioral addiction coverage, to three hospitals: NYC H+H/Harlem, NYC H+H/Jacobi, and NYC H+H/Queens. This model will provide rapid delivery of life-saving medications for opioid use disorder directly in emergency rooms and inpatient units, as well as immediate access to ongoing outpatient addiction services.
Support the city’s plans, announced in March 2024, to open a health and substance use disorder clinic for pregnant and postpartum women and their families with an investment of $8 million. This clinic will offer pregnant and parenting individuals living with substance use disorders a safe and supportive place to access prenatal and post-natal care, addiction medicine, and behavioral health care.

OCME Investments

OCME’s investments total $4 million annually. In addition to the initial investment that supports the Drug Intelligence and Intervention Group, which offers tailored support for the families of drug overdose decedents by connecting them to critical mental health and social support services in the crucial window following an overdose death, these funds will:

Support the hiring of additional scientists and support staff, provide new equipment and physical upgrades to the forensic toxicology laboratory, and allow for information technology improvements. OCME aims to reduce turnaround times by half over the next year to expedite answers for grieving families and data to partners in the public health system.

As of June 2024, the end of FY24, New York City had received $154 million in opioid settlement funds. The annual budget for FY24 was $33 million; an analysis of the impact of these investments can be found in the city’s most recent Opioid Settlement Funds Report issued in September 2024. Across programs, New York City has served thousands of New Yorkers and their families. The OCME’s Drug Intelligence and Intervention Group program has served 1,300 individuals. In FY24, syringe service programs that operate overdose prevention centers connected more than 6,600 participants with more than 25,000 services to reduce risk of overdose, provide supports, and referrals for treatment. Since beginning to receive opioid settlement funds, NYC H+H has provided comprehensive addiction consultations to 11,382 inpatient admissions through the Consult for Addiction Treatment and Care in Hospitals program and had 8,321 patient engagements with expanded substance use services at Street Health Outreach and Wellness vans. Earlier this month, through the , NYC H+H launched its cutting-edge addiction stimulation training for Emergency Department prescribers, the first of several training initiatives through this program.

This expanded funding comes at an urgent time. Despite a slight decline in U.S. overdose deaths in 2023, fatalities remain at crisis-levels nationwide. . Fentanyl continued to be the most common substance involved in overdose deaths, present in 81 percent of overdose deaths in New York City in 2022. Very recently, carfentanil has been identified in a small number of overdose deaths in New York City and has been found in trace or small amounts of samples tested by DOHMH’s drug-checking program.

Today’s investments will help New York City expand and build upon initiatives that save lives and provide access to treatment and other services. “Care, Community, Action,” the city’s mental health plan, highlights the needs of those at risk of an overdose and has set ambitious goals to reduce total overdose deaths across the five boroughs. Steps taken since its launch include expanding the Relay program to Brookdale Hospital Medical Center, expanding access to low-barrier treatment and harm reduction services, and increasing the availability of the overdose reversal medication naloxone, as well as fentanyl test strips to New Yorkers.

New York City also has the first two publicly recognized Overdose Prevention Centers in the nation, which provide a continuum of services to address basic needs and offer connections to treatment for people who use drugs. Since opening in November 2021, the two Overdose Prevention Centers have successfully intervened in more than 1,500 potential overdoses to reduce overdose-related injuries and deaths.

Today’s investment and all of the actions taken by Mayor Adams and the Adams administration to prevent overdose deaths also underscore the administration’s efforts to improve and extend the average lifespan of all New Yorkers through “HealthyNYC” to 83 years by 2030. HealthyNYC sets ambitious targets to address the greatest drivers of premature death, including chronic and diet-related diseases, screenable cancers, overdose, suicide, maternal mortality, violence, and COVID-19.

“I want to thank Mayor Adams for his dedicated efforts and Attorney General James for securing these essential funds to combat the opioid epidemic,” said New York State Assemblymember Charles D. Fall. “This $50 million annual support is a lifeline for New York City, particularly for Staten Island, which has been hit hardest by this crisis. By improving access to treatment and education, supporting our local organizations, and strengthening harm reduction initiatives, we can make significant progress in addressing this crisis. The enhanced data infrastructure will also enable us to tackle the opioid issue more effectively, ultimately saving lives and fostering a healthier future for our community.”

“As an assemblymember committed to improving public health and safety, I firmly believe increased funding for opioid addiction treatment and prevention programs is not just a necessity, but a moral imperative,” said New York State Assemblymember Eddie Gibbs. “New York City must invest in comprehensive solutions that address the root causes of addiction, provide effective treatment options, and support our communities in healing. Every dollar dedicated to combating this crisis is a step toward saving lives and building a healthier, more resilient city.”

“Congratulations and thank you to Attorney General James and Mayor Adams for successfully securing these opioid settlement funds and getting the money where it needs to go,” said New York State Assemblymember Sam Pirozzolo. “Opioid addiction is a leading public health crisis in New York City and every penny that can go towards saving lives is a wonderful thing.”

“Opioids are now involved in 84 percent of overdose deaths in our city, taking the lives of hundreds of our loved ones each year,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “As the daughter of doctors who worked in drug addiction medicine, I am deeply committed to partnering with all stakeholders to turn this situation around. In Albany, I worked to pass a budget allocating $90 million from the Opioid Settlement Fund for treatment and harm reduction across the state. Mayor Adams is now putting the city’s share of funds into action in our effort to end this epidemic for good. We will support intervention services including treatment, outreach, and aid for those harmed by opioids, as well as improved data collection. This work builds upon the $12 million investment we launched last year to address opioid abuse. Through this prudent spending, we will save the lives of all New Yorkers impacted by opioid addiction.”

“Increasing accessibility to opioid use disorder treatment gives New Yorkers help when they need it most and will save lives,” said New York State Assemblymember John Zaccaro, Jr. “Building partnerships with likeminded, community-based partners whose harm-reduction programs help so many, is vital to this effort. I strongly support the Adams administration’s efforts to secure $50 million in funding to make this a reality.”

“We have far too many opioid overdoses in the Bronx,” said Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark. “Our community suffers from one of the highest rates of fatal overdoses in the nation. Supporting community programs will promote accessibility to treatment, education, and prevention services. Providing emotional support for grieving families is a vital step to helping them cope with the loss of their loved one, as well as a prevention measure. I applaud Mayor Adams for his wise allocation of the hundreds of millions of dollars that New York State Attorney General Letitia James secured from manufacturers and distributors who flooded the Bronx with these harmful drugs.”

“About two years ago, we determined that Staten Island would not be receiving any of the opioid settlement money, despite the fact there had been, and continues to be, too many lives lost to addictions and overdoses,” said Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella. “We worked with the mayor’s office and other elected officials to change how the money would be distributed. Fortunately, we prevailed. As a result, Staten Island providers will now be receiving funding to help combat and reduce the opioid and other drug related issues here, especially for young people. We thank the mayor for hearing our case and helping to change a policy that would have hurt Staten Island.”

“The ongoing opioid crisis has had a disproportionate effect on many of our communities and has claimed the lives of too many of our residents,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “Today`s announcement is a significant commitment to combatting the opioid epidemic in our city. I want to thank Attorney General Letitia James and Mayor Eric Adams for their continued advocacy in support the emotional, mental, and physical well-being of New Yorkers struggling with opioid addiction and will ensure our municipalities have the tools to expand harm reduction services and treatment for our most vulnerable residents.”

“As the chair of the Council’s committee on hospitals and a registered nurse, I am deeply committed to addressing the opioid crisis that continues to devastate our communities,” said New York City Councilmember Mercedes Narcisse, chair, Committee on Hospitals. “I would like to praise Mayor Adams, as this $50 million annual investment is a critical step forward in our fight against opioid addiction. This funding will provide essential treatment and crucial support services and allow us to better understand and respond to the needs of those so severely affected by this crisis in real-time. I am delighted to support this initiative and remain dedicated to working alongside Mayor Adams, our health care providers and community organizations to ensure a healthier, safer New York City for all.”

“I am thrilled that this crucial investment in opioid prevention, treatment, and education is coming into fruition,” said New York City Councilmember Yusef Salaam. “The opioid crisis has been ravaging the nation, disproportionately affecting individuals and families in communities just like Harlem. This $50 million annual commitment secured by Mayor Adams and Attorney General James is the kind of city-state partnership that will not only save lives, but also restore hope to countless families affected by the scourge of these substances. I thank them for their leadership in helping build a future where every New Yorker has the support they need to overcome opioid addiction and reclaim their lives.”

“Opioid addiction is one of the most prevalent substance abuse issues facing New Yorkers,” said New York City Councilmember Lynn Schulman, chair, Health Committee.  The investment of opioid settlement funds to support community-based programming to prevent and reduce overdoses, announced today, is critical to saving the lives of those most in need of intervention.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES NEXT GENERATION OF NEW YORK CITY’S INVESTMENTS IN FLOOD PREVENTION AND PREPARATION TO KEEP NEW YORKERS SAFE, PROTECT THEIR WALLETS

Administration Has Invested $1.2 Billion in Stormwater Flood Mitigation Efforts

Green Medians, Flood Sensors, Rain Gardens, Porous Pavement, Bluebelts, and Slotted Manhole Covers Are Being Implemented Citywide

NEW YORK – To mark the third anniversary of Hurricane Ida, which brought the heaviest rainfall in New York City’s recorded history and tragically claimed the lives of 13 New Yorkers, New York City Mayor Eric Adams today updated New Yorkers on new and ongoing efforts to protect public safety and New Yorkers’ property by combating flooding and safeguarding the residents of New York City from the harmful and costly impacts of climate change. Since the start of this administration, the city has invested more than $1.2 billion in vital anti-stormwater flooding, public safety infrastructure in all five boroughs, ranging from traditional sewer upgrades to innovative green infrastructure solutions and more — and similar investments in anti-flooding infrastructure have been shown to prevent seven times as much damage as compared to the original investment.

Mayor Adams today celebrated milestones in five of these major public safety projects. The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and New York City Department of Design and Construction (DDC) completed major sewer upgrades that tripled drainage capacity in College Point and doubled it in Maspeth, preventing that water from putting New Yorkers in danger or causing property damage. The city also, this week, installed its 200^th flood sensor in Corona, Queens, putting the administration on track to reach Mayor Adams’ target of 500 flood sensors well ahead of schedule. Additionally, the city broke ground on its first Cloudburst project at the New York City Housing Authority’s (NYCHA) South Jamaica Houses, which will keep nearly 3.5 million gallons of stormwater out of the sewer system each year. Finally, DEP completed its transformation of three acres of concrete medians in Queens Village into subsurface drainage chambers, engineered rock and soil, ornamental grasses, and perennial wildflowers that can collectively manage 5 million gallons of stormwater that would otherwise contribute to flooding.

“Keeping New Yorkers safe is my most important responsibility — and that responsibility includes protecting New Yorkers from the clear and present danger to life and property that flooding poses,” said Mayor Adams. “Our investments in green and grey infrastructure, as well as flood preparedness, will save lives and prevent billions in property damage, particularly for low-income New Yorkers living in these low-lying areas who simply can’t afford to rebuild following flood after flood. I came into office with a clear focus on public safety and protecting New Yorkers’ wallets, and with climate change continuing to produce more intense and more frequent extreme weather, investments like these are a key part of our public safety and affordability strategies.”

“Fast and furious rainfall means New York City must be — and is being — skillfully creative on how we protect our city. That’s why we are making every square foot do double duty,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “We’re turning New York into a sponge: small green patches are pretty and absorb gallons of stormwater, ponds and basketball courts provide recreation and hold massive amounts of rainwater, and porous pavement soaks in the water rather than letting it pool and flood. We are completing needed sewer upgrades to address pain points during massive storms like Ida and smaller ‘five-year’ storms that happen with increasing regularity. And we’re doubling down on education and information with FloodNet sensors — because while we make progress on these massive investments, flooding is very much an emergency, and we must protect lives now while we plan for the future.”

“We have no greater responsibility than to keep New Yorkers safe, and that requires making sure tragic deaths like those during Hurricane Ida never happen again,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “The city’s new efforts to combat the effects of climate change, including the new Cloudburst project at South Jamaica Houses, are the kind of aggressive efforts we need to keep New Yorkers safe in their homes.”

“Our infrastructure was designed to function in a climate that we don’t live in anymore, but we are working hard to update it to protect New Yorkers from flooding,” said New York City Chief Climate Officer and DEP Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala. “From rain gardens to porous pavement, we are working faster and smarter to protect New Yorkers from the intense storms we see more frequently than ever before.”

“Three years after Hurricane Ida, the city is making major strides in flood mitigation and centering community input,” said MOCEJ Executive Director Elijah Hutchinson. “Our FloodNet sensors can help you take a different route to school or know when to deploy flood barriers — and, over time, city agencies will use this crucial data for vital infrastructure planning.”

“Our growing portfolio of climate related projects reflects the city’s changing needs as storms become more frequent and intense and sea levels continue to rise,” said DDC Commissioner Thomas Foley. “In the last fiscal year, in addition to our coastal resiliency work, DDC installed 1,249 rain gardens and infiltration basins and an additional 20,478 square feet of porous pavement to help manage stormwater on city streets before it reaches the sewer system. And in the coming years, along with our partners at DEP, we’re planning much more, including many more miles of porous pavement, plus work on cloudburst initiatives and new Bluebelts. DDC will continue to adapt so the city can adapt.”

“As the emergency management agency for one of the most diverse cities in the world, we understand the critical need for a multi-channel, multilingual, and multicultural communication strategy,” said New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) Commissioner Zach Iscol. “Flash floods can strike with little warning and pose a significant threat to life and property. That’s why we’re leveraging every tool at our disposal — from NotifyNYC alerts and WhatsApp messages to drones and invaluable partnerships with community-based organizations and elected officials. Our goal is to ensure that every New Yorker, no matter where they are or what language they speak, receives the vital information they need to stay safe during emergencies.”

Sewer System Investments and Upgrades

Over the course of the Adams administration, the city has installed dozens of miles of new sewers, significantly upgrading the system’s drainage capacity to handle millions of additional gallons of sudden and heavy rainfall during a storm. The administration recently completed two major projects in the frequently flooded Queens communities of Maspeth and College Point. The $106 million Maspeth project added more than a mile of new, very large sewers and nearly a mile of new water mains, and it used innovative construction techniques like micro-tunneling to significantly reduce the effects of construction on the local community. The $132 million College Point project added nearly 8.5 miles of new sewers and seven miles of new water mains, in addition to 300 new catch basins.

Additionally, DEP is installing slotted manhole covers that provide an alternate drainage point to help street level water drain into curbside catch basins in the event that a catch basin grate gets matted over with leaves, debris, or litter.

Cloudburst Program

Cloudbursts — or sudden, heavy downpours similar to what was seen during Hurricane Ida — can put lives in danger, damage property, disrupt critical infrastructure, and pollute New York’s waterways. The city’s Cloudburst Program manages these extreme downpours using localized grey and green infrastructure, open spaces, and other innovative methods of absorbing, storing, and transferring stormwater. Working together, these assets store excess stormwater until torrential rains pass and there is sufficient capacity in the neighborhood sewer system to better manage it.

This summer, the city broke ground on the first of these projects at NYCHA’s South Jamaica Houses, projected to be completed in 2025. The project will capture nearly 3.5 million gallons of stormwater annually, easing pressure on the sewer system and helping to reduce flooding. Additionally, the city recently received $100 million in federal funds to construct two additional Cloudburst projects in Corona and Kissena, and was shortlisted for $100 million more for projects in East Elmhurst and Central Harlem. Previously announced Cloudburst projects in Parkchester-Morris Park, the Bronx, East New York, Brooklyn, East Harlem, Manhattan and St. Alban’s, Queens, are currently being designed by engineers while work slated for Brownsville, Brooklyn, is anticipated to begin in the coming months. The Brownsville project was also awarded $24 million in federal funding.

Other Green Infrastructure

Green infrastructure projects create additional capacity for stormwater management by storing and absorbing excess rainwater, preventing it from entering (or overwhelming) the sewer system. Today, DEP completed its transformation of three acres of impermeable concrete medians in Queens Village into a green infrastructure system that can collect approximately 5 million gallons of stormwater from the area and help to reduce flooding. Additional large concrete medians in the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens will be transformed into resilient green infrastructure medians beginning next year.

Furthermore, the city is installing seven miles of porous pavement — which unlike traditional asphalt-paved roadways, allows stormwater to pass through and be absorbed naturally into the ground — along Brooklyn roadways. This $32.6 million project, which will help prevent flooding, sewer backups into homes and businesses, and overflows into waterways, and is expected to be completed in early 2026. Additional porous pavement projects are in the pipeline for neighborhoods in the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens.

Additionally, the Adams administration is constructing a new, three-acre Bluebelt in Staten Island’s Midland Beach neighborhood. Bluebelts are ecologically-rich and cost-effective drainage ponds, where existing wetlands are reengineered so that they can naturally manage the precipitation that falls on streets and sidewalks. This project adds to the city’s network of nearly 100 Bluebelts, most of which are located on Staten Island, and builds on last October’s completion of a $110 million expansion of the New Creek Bluebelt. Bluebelts are a key part of the city’s strategy to mitigate inland flooding, and the Adams administration continues to actively evaluate locations in all five boroughs to expand the successful Bluebelt network.

Finally, DEP and DDC recently completed construction of more than 900 curbside rain gardens and infiltration basins across Crown Heights, Brooklyn and Whitestone, Queens. Each year, it is anticipated that these rain gardens will intercept approximately 58 million gallons of stormwater, keeping it out of the sewer system and helping to reduce flooding, sewer backups into homes and businesses, and overflows into waterways. To date, the city has built more than 10,500 curbside rain gardens, including 2,300 during the Adams administration.

Flood Preparedness

The city’s network of flood sensors provide real-time, street-level flood information through a free, online dashboard. This data allows residents, officials, and emergency responders to immediately react and respond to flooding conditions. Data gathered can also be used to compare historical hyperlocal flooding conditions and inform future mitigation efforts. On the first anniversary of Hurricane Ida, Mayor Adams set a goal of having 500 flood sensors in priority flooding areas by 2027 — and the city is now on track to meet that benchmark well ahead of schedule using a combination of surface flood sensors and piloting the use of traffic cameras for flood detection. This past week, the city installed its 200^th sensor in Corona, Queens’ Louis Simeone Park.

Additionally, to help New Yorkers understand and prepare for the risks associated with rainfall-based flooding, the city has released a new map showing how much flooding results from different levels of rainfall under current and future sea level rise predictions. In July 2022, the city released “Rainfall Ready NYC,” an action-focused overview of the responsibilities New Yorkers and city government must share to combat intense storms, together, today.

Furthermore, the Adams administration has continued to expand its public emergency notification systems. Notify NYC — the public notification program run by NYCEM — has gained an additional 335,000 subscribers since fall 2021, informing more communities about weather conditions that may impact them. In April 2023, NYCEM developed a Basement Alerts group to deliver targeted messaging to New Yorkers living in basement-level dwellings. When activated, these alerts trigger phone calls, text messages, emails, and mobile notifications to subscribed communities to inform them of risks and action steps in the event of potential or imminent flood conditions. Since its inception, this Basement Alerts group has grown steadily, amassing over 5,600 subscribers.

The administration has also started to use drones to broadcast flood warnings in low-lying communities, to ensure that all residents are aware of any potential hazards. The drone mission reflects the administration’s commitment to exploring innovative technologies that can enhance the city’s emergency response. Drones have the added benefit of geographic specificity. During the early August 2024 flood events, the drones were sent to flood-prone neighborhoods to announce recorded warnings in English and Spanish.

Finally, this summer, DEP has partnered with elected officials, community boards, and local organizations to host Flood Preparedness Town Halls, where approximately 2,000 flood kits, including flood barriers, sump pumps, and flood sensors, are being distributed to residents. Senior staff and engineers have been on hand at these educational workshops to discuss what the city is doing to fortify neighborhoods in the face of climate change. The information and kits provided at these events empower residents and business owners to protect their properties from the damaging effects of extreme weather. So far, sessions have been held in Throggs Neck, Bronx, Red Hook and Bushwick, Brooklyn, and Jamaica, Queens. Upcoming events will be held on September 17 in the Rockaways and on September 24 on Staten Island. DEP also distributed more than 9,000 60-gallon rain barrels to New Yorkers, free of charge. The 60-gallon rain barrels are easy to install and connect directly to a property’s gutter or downspout to capture and store stormwater that falls on the rooftop. The water collected in the rain barrel reduces the amount of stormwater that enters the city’s sewer system, helping to alleviate flooding while also protecting the health of local waterways.

“Three years after the floodwaters of Hurricane Ida took 13 precious lives, we have now deployed $1.2 billion in infrastructure to stop it from ever happening again,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Across all five boroughs, we have implemented sewer upgrades, 200 flood sensors, the first Cloudburst stormwater management project, 3 acres of bioswales, and more. This will keep millions of gallons of water from overwhelming our sewer system, flooding our streets and homes, and causing untold damage. This is a common-sense use of taxpayer dollars: studies show that every $1 in flood hazard mitigation saves $7 in recovery costs. Together, we will keep all New Yorkers high and dry and stop flood damage in its tracks.”

“I’m pleased to see Mayor Adams invest $1.2 billion in vital anti-flooding and storm mitigation projects,” said New York State Assemblymember David I. Weprin. “Three years ago, as New York got slammed by Hurricane Ida, with its unprecedented flooding, lives were lost, and property damage was catastrophic. Since then, Mayor Adams has put plans in place that will prevent those devastating losses from happening in the future. I recently attended a DEP flood preparedness event where homeowners watched a presentation and then were given sump pumps, flood barriers, and a flood sensor alarm. This programming, along with the sewer and public safety infrastructure upgrades, will serve to prevent the damage we saw with Hurricane Ida. I want to thank Mayor Adams and his administration for making necessary improvements to keep the residents of New York City safe.”

“Last year, we announced the creation of green spaces to replace concrete medians in this neighborhood,” said New York State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky. “This dedicated funding for stormwater infrastructure in Eastern Queens shows the continued commitment we all have to mitigate flooding for our constituents. I thank the mayor and the New York City Council for making these projects a priority here and throughout the city.”

“As climate change increasingly impacts our city, it is imperative that we devise innovative solutions to mitigate the risks of flooding in urban areas. These measures are essential to safeguarding lives and enhancing coastal resilience in our communities,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “Drawing on the lessons from Hurricane Ida, neighborhoods like Kingsbridge, City Island, Throggs Neck, and other vulnerable areas that were severely affected will benefit from these citywide Stormwater Mitigation Efforts. I want to thank Mayor Adams, the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, and the New York City Department of Design and Construction for their collaborative efforts and dedication to deploying the necessary resources to protect our residents and our city.”

MAYOR ADAMS OPENS 24 NEW SCHOOL BUILDINGS AHEAD OF 2024-2025 SCHOOL YEAR

Buildings Include More Than 11,000 New Seats, Modern Classrooms,
Innovative Learning and Community Spaces, Advanced Technology

Administration Opens Most New K-12 Seats in Two Decades

Details on Each New Building Available Online

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Public Schools Chancellor David Banks, and New York City School Construction Authority (SCA) President and CEO Nina Kubota today announced the completion and opening of 24 new school buildings, including 11,010 new seats, across the city, each set to welcome students for the first day of the 2024-2025 school year. This marks the most new K-12 seats opened by the SCA since 2003 and comes in addition to over 20,000 student seats previously added over the course of the Adams administration. Additionally, the newly adopted 2025-2029 Capital Plan provides funding for another 33,417 seats. This significant expansion will provide students with state-of-the-art facilities and resources essential for their continued academic success and overall development.

“Our administration is committed to giving our children a first-class education, and a crucial part of a great education is having access to great facilities,” said Mayor Adams. “The 24 new buildings we’re opening ahead of this school year — with the most K-12 seats the city has opened in two decades — will provide 11,000 additional students with seats and set our children and our communities up for success. With modern and flexible spaces, state-of-the-art technology, science labs, music rooms, sensory gyms, and more, these new schools are going to be incredible spaces for students and staff alike, will play a crucial role in fostering a sense of well-being for our children, and will help us build a safer, more affordable, and more livable city.”

“School buildings are the physical representation of the investment we make in our children and our city as we cultivate the next generation of leaders,” said Public Schools Chancellor Banks. “These new buildings will provide 11,000 new classroom seats, creating more space for bright starts and bold futures. We are truly grateful to our partners at SCA and City Hall for standing alongside us in this vital effort to expand opportunities for our students.”

“The SCA’s mission has always been to create and maintain safe, nurturing, and inspiring learning environments. These new schools are more than just buildings; they are vibrant, dynamic spaces where young minds can explore, create, and grow,” said SCA President and CEO Kubota. “They also underscore the SCA’s dedication to providing equitable access to quality education for all New York City children, highlighting the importance of investing in educational infrastructure as a foundation for student success.”

“Our young people deserve the world — they deserve great teachers, school staff, and mentors, and they deserve state-of-the-art buildings that help them reach their limitless potential,” said Chief of Staff Camille Joseph Varlack. “The 24 new school buildings — and 11,000 new seats, the most we’ve opened in a single year since 2003 — will give our students the infrastructure they need to be their best. My thanks to the team at SCA for building such incredible new facilities and to the students, parents, teachers, staff, and community members who make our schools the neighborhood gems that they are.”

“Of all the capital development we do in New York City, building schools provides probably the most obvious and immediate improvement for New Yorkers’ lives. We are incredibly grateful to be able to deliver 24 schools in 2024, a banner year for school development,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “Schools today have to compete with video games and social media — luckily, these are no ordinary schools. With environments and furniture specially designed for kids, welcoming back-of-house spaces for teachers and staff, and even a farm, these buildings support not only kids’ social and emotional growth, but whole ecosystems.”

“Kudos to New York City Public Schools and the SCA for ensuring New York City’s students — including our three- and four-year olds — teachers, and school leaders start the school year off right,” said Deputy Mayor of Strategic Initiatives Ana J. Almanzar. “Hundreds of brand-new early childhood education seats across our neighborhoods further solidify the administration’s commitment to ensuring that our youngest New Yorkers get the start that they need. I look forward to seeing all the accomplishments from our students this year.”

New school buildings have been completed in four boroughs, with nine in Brooklyn, eight in the Bronx, one in Manhattan, and six in Queens. With a commitment to fostering an enriching educational environment, the new school buildings feature modern classrooms, advanced technology, and versatile learning spaces to ensure that they meet the diverse needs of New York City’s student population. They are also constructed with green spaces and environmentally-friendly materials, promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship. Key features of the new school buildings include:

Innovative Learning Spaces — Classrooms equipped with the latest educational technology, flexible space and furniture, and collaborative workspaces, including:

Reading and speech resource rooms
Art and music classrooms
Science lab and prep rooms
Special education classrooms
Libraries
Gymnasiums and auditoriums

Community Integration – Multi-purpose spaces designed to serve students, staff, and the surrounding community, fostering stronger community ties and support networks, including:

Medical, guidance counselor, and administrative suites
Parent and community rooms
Indoor and outdoor play spaces
Staff lunch and conference rooms

SCA will continue to invest in creating new seats, not only in areas of current overcrowding and projected growth, but also to help schools comply with state legislation requiring smaller class sizes. SCA will also continue its work promoting healthier school environments, advocating for better health and nutrition, and broadening opportunities for physical education, as well as investing in existing infrastructure to provide better facilities for New York City’s students, teachers, and staff.

As part of SCA’s Public Art for Public Schools Program, 21 new, site-specific pieces of artwork were installed in the new buildings this year by artists Afruz Amighi, Julia Whitney Barnes, Joell Baxter, Joe Bochynski, Chris Bogia, Deborah Czeresko, Dennis Redmoon Darkeem, Delano Dunn, Ghost of a Dream, Taraneh Hemami, Johannah Herr, Wendy Letven, Diana Sofia Lozano, Katherine Tzu-Lan Mann, Tijay Mohammed, John O’ Connor, Jason Rohlf, Sarah Sharp, Pranav Sood, Kirsten Kay Thoen, and Marela Zacarias. The pieces were created using a wide range of materials, including hand-blown glass, porcelain enamel, ceramic tile, metal, lenticular and vitreous glass, cast resin, acrylic, powder-coated aluminum and steel, painted and printed glass, c-prints, stone, and found objects. Images are available online.

“As a father of three, I understand our responsibility to provide our youth with the resources they need for a bright future,” said New York State Senator Jamaal T. Bailey. “The opening of 24 new school buildings across New York City, adding over 11,000 new seats, is a significant step toward achieving this. I thank Mayor Adams, Chancellor Banks, and SCA President Kubota for their commitment to our city’s future by creating innovative learning environments. These new facilities will foster academic excellence, strengthen community ties, and ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed for years to come.”

“This is fantastic news for many schools in Southern Brooklyn that have been struggling with severe overcrowding for years,” said New York State Senator Iwen Chu. “The addition of new school buildings, upgrades such as improved cafeterias, modernized facilities, new physical education spaces, and upgraded surveillance systems will enhance the quality of education for our students. I am excited to welcome students and greet families in Southern Brooklyn on September 5th!”

“The opening of these new school buildings is great news for families in our district,” said New York State Senator Nathalia Fernandez. “With more middle schools now available, our kids will have the chance to learn in modern, well-equipped classrooms right in their own community. This investment shows a real commitment to our children’s future, and I’m excited to see the positive impact it will have on their education and development.”

“Education opened every door for me, and now I am a proud champion of the largest school system in the nation,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Working with Mayor Adams, we have made unprecedented investments in education, and I passed the historic Diwali School Holiday bill so that our children could celebrate the day without missing school. Today we embark upon a new school year with 24 new school buildings to accommodate over 11,000 young scholars—in addition to the 20,000 seats we have already built in this administration. I am proud to partner with the mayor, Chancellor Banks, and SCA President and CEO Kubota, providing them the resources from the state to continue building more schools and meet the educational needs of all our children.”

“As a representative of one of the poorest communities in New York City, I know that education is the greatest equalizing force for our working-class families,” said New York State Assemblymember Yudelka Tapia. “The opening of 24 new school buildings, with over 11,000 new seats, will help ensure that every child has access to the educational resources they deserve. These new facilities will play a critical role in addressing learning disparities and providing our future generations with the tools they need to succeed.”

“This expansion of school facilities across New York City is a testament to our commitment to providing every student with the space, tools, and environment they need to thrive,” said New York State Assemblymember Alec Brook-Krasny. “With these new schools and additional seats, we are not just building classrooms — we are building futures.”

“It is a profound honor to have a new school in Assembly District 77 named after the late former Assemblymember Aurelia Greene,” said New York State Assemblymember Landon C. Dais. “During her 27 years of dedicated service to our district, she made a significant and lasting impact on our district. Greene extended her influence across the Bronx as our former Deputy Borough President for an additional nine years. Investment in District 9 Schools’ is an investment for everyone we serve in our community. We need to continue to invest in our children to ensure they have every opportunity to succeed. This school stands as a testament to her legacy, ensuring that her greatness continues to inspire and uplift the students of our community for generations to come.”

“I am very proud to be here today alongside Mayor Adams for the unveiling of P.S. 487 — one of the much-needed schools the city has built for our growing population of students,” said New York City Councilmember Rafael Salamanca, Jr. “Here in the South Bronx, we are witnessing unprecedented levels of overcrowding in our school system, with class sizes affecting the great work undertaken by or educators. With a record number of affordable housing units coming into our borough, the necessity for new educational centers to accommodate our community’s needs has grown exponentially. Now, not only will this new elementary school serve as a beacon for countless generations of Bronxites, but the expanded educational amenities will guarantee that Bronx youth will no longer be left behind.”

We hope you had a great Labor Day Holiday!

This past weekend, Mayor Adams marched in the annual West-Indian American Day Parade on Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn. The Caribbean Islands have brought New York City so much joy and beauty. We hope everyone had a happy J’Ouvert and West Indian American Day Parade celebration.

This past week, Mayor Adams and CAU hosted a roundtable discussion with Italian-American leaders and community members, where community leaders met and engaged with the Mayor and agency Commissioners. The Italian community helped build New York City, and it was an honor to sit down with them to learn how we can keep serving our city together.

To honor the Dominican Republic, this past week Mayor Adams raised the nation’s flag at Bowling Green. We are so grateful to the community for its contributions to our great city.

CAU, along with other administration officials, also participated in the flag raising for Malaysia. We wish all Malaysian Americans a Happy Independence Day!

Finally, as we mark the unofficial end of summer, we are excited to welcome New York City’s 1.1 million students back to school this week! Visit here for helpful tips on preparing your child for a great start to the new school year.

For the latest updates, please follow CAU on Twitter and Facebook, and be sure to check out the Mayor’s “Week In Review” video below.

All the best,

Fred Kreizman

Commissioner, Community Affairs Unit

Office of the Mayor

MAYOR ADAMS, WEST INDIAN AMERICAN DAY CARNIVAL ASSOCIATION ISSUE STATEMENT ON SHOOTING AT WEST INDIAN AMERICAN DAY PARADE

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and West Indian American Day Carnival Association President Roger Archibald tonight released the following statement on the shooting that occurred earlier today at the West Indian American Day Parade:

“The West Indian American Day Parade is a joyous event that celebrates the multitude of culture and diversity in our city. But instead of allowing all to enjoy a momentous occasion for our city, a gunman turned today’s celebration into tragedy when he senselessly fired into the crowd, hitting multiple revelers. The NYPD is investigating this incident, and we are grateful for the brave men and women who quickly responded and helped to ensure New Yorkers could continue to be safe while celebrating. While we are keeping the victims and their families in our prayers as they fight to recover, we know we must do more to combat gun violence and ensure the safety of every New Yorker and visitor.”

MAYOR ADAMS, CITY COUNCIL ANNOUNCE HISTORIC 10-POINT PLAN TO MAKE HIGH-QUALITY CHILD CARE MORE AFFORDABLE, ACCESSIBLE FOR ALL NEW YORKERS

Plan Would Reimagine City’s Early Childhood Education System With More Than $3 Billion Invested, Bolstered by $100 Million New Funding in FY25 Adopted Budget Joint Adams Administration-Council Effort Will Better Allocate Resources to Meet Needs, Connect Families with Unfilled Seats, Support Providers

New Investments Will Support Over 1,500 3-K Seats for Upcoming School Year in High-Need Communities, Expand Special Education and Extended Day Seats, Fund to Support Undocumented Children, Target Outreach Efforts to Boost Enrollment

Adams Administration Has Extended Offers to 100 Percent of Families Who Applied for 3-K On Time, History

Administration Has Made Child Care More Affordable by Dramatically Reducing Out-of-Pocket Cost of Subsidized Child Care by More Than 10-Fold

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and leadership of the New York City Council today announced a historic joint effort to strengthen early childhood education across the five boroughs and address longstanding systemic issues, while boosting enrollment and connecting families with more Pre-K and 3-K seats. The strategic plan — developed by an unprecedented joint Adams administration-Council working group, chaired by Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Ana J. Almanzar and Speaker Adams — will be anchored by $100 million in new city investment allocated in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Adopted Budget to implement an action-oriented roadmap for outreach and seat allocation across the city. With the new $100 million investment, the total investment in the FY25 city budget for early childhood education is $3 billion, comprised of $2 billion for early childhood education programming for children aged zero to five and approximately $1 billion for preschool special education.

In the two months since the budget was announced and voted on, New York City Public Schools added more than 1,500 additional 3-K seats in high-demand areas of the city to support families for the 2024-2025 school year. Since May 2024, New York City Public Schools has continued to drive down waitlists — reaching 100 percent of families who applied before the application deadline with first-round offers by mid-August. The Adams administration’s joint effort with the City Council will strengthen the city’s early childhood education system to better allocate resources and connect families with seats.

“All families deserve to live in a city with a safe, nurturing, and affordable place to leave their children, while being given the opportunity to pursue their dreams,” said Mayor Adams. “Access to affordable child care is one of the largest drivers of economic mobility, especially for women. That’s why our administration has delivered an expanded and more equitable early childhood education program, and, with this plan, we are presenting our vision for how to strengthen it even further into the future. Despite early childhood applications more than tripling from five years ago, there has been a 350 percent increase in families receiving offers. This year alone, 100 percent of families that applied on time have received an early childhood offer. But we know there is work to be done. That’s why we have invested $100 million in this historic plan with the City Council to fix lingering systemic problems and usher in a new and improved program. Our plan focuses on better allocating resources to meet needs, conducting robust family outreach, supporting providers, and expanding access for students with disabilities, as well as undocumented families. Every day, we will continue to build a city focused on supporting working-class people, that is safer, more prosperous, more affordable, and, most importantly, that invests in our children. I thank Speaker Adams and our partners on the Council for helping to deliver a better product for New York families.”

“Improving and investing in our city’s early childhood education system has always been this Council’s priority,” said New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams. “Today’s announcement is the fruit of more than a year and half of labor to expand extended day options and special education seats, support this essential workforce, and make child care more accessible. I’m pleased that the Department of Education has cleared the 3-K waiting list with offers made to all families that applied. I look forward to working with the Adams administration to ensure more families access seats moving forward. While we celebrate this progress, we will continue the collaborative work to fix the inefficiencies in our early childhood education system to better serve families, particularly those in low-income areas that are currently under-enrolled.”

“As chair of the Committee on Education, I have passionately fought alongside New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams to ensure our budget reflects a deep commitment to investing in and protecting education across our city,” said New York City Councilmember Rita Joseph. “Thanks to the relentless efforts of the Council, we’re making real strides in strengthening our early childhood education system and delivering for every New York City student and family. I am thrilled to see New York City Public Schools and the Adams administration take steps to eliminate waiting lists, guarantee timely payments for our providers, and advance culturally responsive recruitment and outreach. Early intervention and learning are not just important—they are essential to the future success and well-being of our youngest New Yorkers. While this is a step in the right direction, I am determined to continue working hand in hand with the Adams administration to ensure that every child in our city has access to equitable, high-quality early childhood education and preschool special education services. This is a fight we cannot afford to lose, and I am committed to making sure we win it for every family in our city.”

“It’s a fact that greater public investments in early childhood education have immediate economic benefits,” said New York City Councilmember Justin Brannan, Chair, Finance Committee. “That means we can make our city’s economy even stronger by getting this right today. For over a year, the Council has advocated for extending full day seats, providing seats for pre-school special education, and supporting the early childhood education workforce, and more. We reached a comprehensive agreement with the Adams administration to immediately fund seats for families still awaiting 3-K placements or on waiting lists for preschool special education, and to implement other reforms that address problems in the system so families can access seats. We vow to keep working together in partnership to fix our city’s world-class early childhood education system so working and middle-class families can remain here in New York City and benefit from all the amazing things our city has to offer.”

Despite inheriting major structural challenges, particularly associated with a mismatch in available seats to demand, the Adams administration has been committed to improving the city’s early childhood education system. Under the leadership of Mayor Adams, early childhood enrollment is at the highest level ever, with over 150,000 children across New York City’s early childhood system. This includes children in New York City Public Schools, as well as programs run by the New York City Administration for Children’s Services and the New York City Human Resources Administration, speaking to how the city is serving families in early childhood education across a range of agencies, programs, and services. For the first-time ever, 3-K has been made available in every school district with more families applying and getting seats than ever-before. is at the highest it has ever been, with over 53,000 available seats across the New York City Public Schools system— an increase of approximately 17 percent in 3-K capacity since the onset of the Adams administration.

Recently, the Adams administration announced the appointment of Simone C. Hawkins as New York City Public Schools’ new deputy chancellor of Early Childhood Education. To continue building on this success and accomplish a comprehensive re-imagining of the early childhood education system in New York City, the Adams administration and the City Council have created a 10-point plan that will be executed by New York City Public Schools, the Mayor’s Office of Child Care and Early Childhood Education and multiple city agencies, in partnership with the Council to:

Increasing 3-K Access for Families This School Year

The Adams administration committed to ensuring all children who applied for 3-K for the 2024-2025 school year will have access to a high-quality early childhood education seat and has delivered on that commitment. To accomplish this goal, the city added $20 million in the FY25 Adopted Budget to immediately meet the needs of families. Within weeks, New York City Public Schools expanded 3-K capacity to more than 1,500 additional seats in the specific zip codes across several districts in which families did not receive an initial offer. With the passage of the adopted budget, 100 percent of families that initially didn’t receive a 3-K offer now have received one.

Expanding Family Outreach Strategy

Lacking access to resources about the availability of early childhood education and how to apply is a major barrier to entry for many families. To directly address this access-gap, the Adams administration and the City Council have invested a total of $5 million for an outreach effort to maximize the number of children enrolled in 3-K and Pre-K. The effort conducts targeted outreach to communities with under-enrollment and bring resources directly to communities. Launched in July 2024, this comprehensive outreach plan will leverage partnerships with community partners and community-based organizations to facilitate direct engagement with families and provide hands-on enrollment support.

Increasing Preschool Special Education Classrooms

The Adams administration will continue to increase preschool special education classrooms to ensure early childhood education across New York City is inclusive of all children. In 2022, the Adams administration announced a historic contract enhancement and committed to creating 800 preschool special education seats, which grew to over 900. New York City Public Schools increased teacher pay for this critical sector at a time when it was suffering due to underinvestment and difficulty hiring staff, which resulted in stabilizing over 6,500 seats.

This investment will be sustained and further expanded with a historic commitment of $122 million. This includes baselining $67 million for preschool contract enhancements for community-based organizations and the addition of $55 million in new city funds for New York City Public Schools to expand hundreds of preschool special education seats across district schools for the 2024-2025 school year. This fall, 450 additional special education seats will be available with the goal of reaching 700 throughout the school year.

Providing Free Extended Hours of Early Childhood Education for Children and Their Families

Extended day offerings eliminate multiple barriers for parents to maintain employment or further their education while their child is in a safe, high-quality environment later into the evening. That is why the FY24 Adopted Budget baselined $15 million for New York City Public Schools to launch the first-ever pilot, providing funding to give over 1,700 families the opportunity to access free extended hours of 3-K and Pre-K in their own communities. The pilot includes communities with the highest economic need index and where there is limited or no extended day programming. Now, this effort will be propelled by $25 million more , bringing the total investment to $40 million and the opportunity to provide access to thousands of families.

Expanding Support for Undocumented Children Through Promise NYC

The Adams administration and the City Council will continue to support undocumented children and their families who are not eligible for state- and federally-subsidized child care due to their immigration status by expanding Promise NYC, from $16 million in FY24 to $25 million in FY25. Launched in January 2023, the program contracts with four community-based organizations to help families across all five boroughs access and afford child care. Within three months of its launch, Promise NYC had surpassed its initial goal of enrolling 600 children. The additional funds will allow approximately 1,000 children to enroll in child care through Promise NYC.

Funding the Mayor’s Office of Child Care and Early Childhood Education

The Adams administration will provide sustainable funding of approximately $485,000 for three additional staff members in the Mayor’s Office of Child Care and Early Childhood Education, which is charged with coordinating early childhood education efforts across the city and executing on this 10-point plan. Funding for this office was previously provided by philanthropic dollars.

Providing Deeper Support for Child Care and Early Childhood Education Providers and Programs

The Mayor’s Office of Child Care and Early Childhood Education will ensure a holistic approach to child care and early childhood education policy in New York City through collaborative strategy and planning with city agencies. The Mayor’s Office of Child Care and Early Childhood Education will create formal mechanisms for cross-agency collaboration and accountability, and convene agencies to tackle emerging cross-agency issues and plan long-term strategies for the child care sector. Using feedback and input from child care and early childhood providers, the Mayor’s Office of Child Care and Early Childhood Education will work with city agencies to review, assess, and streamline city polices and processes to make it easier for child care providers to sustain their operations and thrive.

Establishing the “Child Care Advisory Group”

Delivering on a key priority outlined in Mayor Adams’ “Accessible, Equitable, High-Quality, Affordable: A Blueprint for Child Care and Early Childhood Education in New York City,” the Mayor’s Office of Child Care and Early Childhood Education will establish the “Child Care Advisory Group,” comprised of providers, parents, key early childhood stakeholders, and city agencies that work in partnership with the administration to ultimately deliver accessible, high-quality child care across the city. The advisory group — which was established in July 2024 —works with the Adams administration to ensure alignment with provider and family priorities and needs, provide input on the design of new strategies, and support planning and implementation of key policies.

Convening Bi-Weekly Meetings Between the Adams Administration and the City Council

To execute this plan and address long-standing challenges across the complex and dynamic early childhood education system, the Adams administration and City Council will hold bi-weekly meetings, chaired by Deputy Mayor Almanzar and Speaker Adams, that includes members of the City Council, participants from the Office of Management and Budget, New York City Public Schools, and the Office of the Chief of Staff to Mayor Adams. The outside of these meetings to coordinate efforts and information-sharing across city agencies.

Ensuring City Agencies Have the Staff and Resources to Support the Infrastructure of the City’s Early Childhood Education System

The Adams administration and city agencies will work together to ensure adequate and sufficient staffing structures that are integral to the sustainability and growth of the city’s early childhood system. This includes staff and resources working on subsidy applications determinations, enrollment into vacant child care seats, background checks, health and safety, and training and technical assistance supports for early childhood programs.

“This joint effort with the City Council to prioritize working families with children reflects our ongoing prioritization of early childhood education,” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “Since taking office, the Adams administration has prioritized making accessible and affordable child care available to any parent who needs it, boosting the number of children enrolled in child care to 150,000, and reducing the per child co-pay from an average of $55 per week to less than $5 per week. Today’s investment of over $100 million will enable the city to provide more accessible, affordable, and equitable early childhood education and focuses in particular on communities who were too often left underserved, including seats for special education and extended day services. We will continue every effort to make childcare accessible and affordable to every New Yorker.”

“Our administration is laser-focused on building a more livable city, where New Yorkers from all walks of life can afford to live and raise a family,” said Chief of Staff Camille Joseph Varlack. “That’s why we’re investing an additional $100 million in reimagining early childhood education. We’re making sure every family that wants a seat has access to one, ensuring our system works for New Yorkers with special needs and undocumented New Yorkers, expanding hours so parents who work late hours have a safe place for their kids to stay, and so much more.”

“Today’s announcement is a testament to the Adams’ administration’s commitment to ensuring New York City’s children and their families have equitable access to high-quality, affordable child care and early childhood education,” said Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Ana Almanzar. “With over $3 billion invested in the early childhood education system and $100 million in new funding, the Adams administration is building an early childhood education system centered on parent- and caregiver-choice, supports for providers, and delivering high-quality options for families. The 10-point plan expands the number of seats for preschool special education, adds more extended day services for working families, and enables undocumented children to get the care they need. I thank the City Council for their partnership and look forward to working together with our city agency partners to accomplish this vision.”

“We’re increasing support for families in need of child care and strengthening programs for children with special needs,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “Furthermore, today’s announcement shows our commitment to parents, families, children, and young people with investments to help give children and young people a strong start, provide relief to parents, and help us achieve a brighter tomorrow. These are advancements that will help children and families today long into the future as we continue to deliver the foundational supports New Yorkers need to thrive.”

“By giving our children bright starts and a strong educational foundation, we ensure they are on track for bold futures,” said New York City Public Schools Chancellor David C. Banks. “I am thrilled to stand alongside Mayor Adams, Deputy Mayor Almanzar, and the City Council in enacting a new plan for early childhood education. Our children and families deserve this renewed commitment.”

“Affordable child care is a necessity, and the mayor‘s 10-point plan is helping to meet that need for tens of thousands of New York City families, including those who were previously ineligible due to their immigration status,” said New York City Administration for Children’s Services Commissioner Jess Dannhauser. “I want to thank Mayor Adams and City Council Speaker Adams for prioritizing this $3 billion investment, which I am confident will better support our youngest New Yorkers, working families, and the city’s child care providers. I want to also recognize the mayor’s commitment to providing the Administration for Children’s Services and other city agencies the staff and resources we need to ensure New Yorkers can easily access child care and be served with dignity, expediency, and respect.”

Thanks to the Adams administration’s ongoing strong fiscal management — which was bolstered by better-than-expected revenue growth — the administration overcame unprecedented challenges in this budget cycle to stabilize the city’s financial outlook and close a $7.1 billion budget gap in January. Now, because of steady, decisive decision making, this adopted budget allows the Adams administration and the City Council to reinvest in initiatives and programs that make New York City more affordable and that address the three things that cost New Yorkers the most — housing, child care, and health care — and that invest billions of dollars of city resources in critical areas, including early childhood education, cultural organizations, parks, public safety, housing, health care, transit, and more. The city will also hold school budgets harmless and safeguard more than $600 million in educational programs previously funded with short-term stimulus.

A thriving early childhood education system is crucial to making New York City more affordable, particularly for women and families. The Adams administration’s child care blueprint found that almost 375,000 parents left or downshifted their jobs because of COVID-19 and lack of access to quality child care. For mothers, the decision to leave the workforce to care for a child can cost up to $145,000 in foregone earnings across their lifetime. That is why the Adams administration has prioritized developing an early childhood program that works for the long-term and has seen results in terms of access and affordability.

Under Mayor Adams’ leadership, the city has made significant investments and enacted policies to support working-class families and put money back into the pockets of working-class New Yorkers by reducing the per child co-payment or out-of-pocket cost of subsidized child care for a family earning $55,000 a year from $55 a week in 2022 to just $4.80 a week today — more than 10 times less. The city has also reduced the co-payments all families pay for subsidized care, bringing the average co-payment per child to less than $220 per year, down from $1,500 annually in 2022.

Despite handling record-high applications, the Adams administration is placing more children in child care than ever before. pandemic, the number of families applying for 3-K has more than tripled, going from approximately 14,000 applicants in 2019 to over 43,000 initial applicants in 2024 — more than three times as many — while, simultaneously, the number of families receiving offers has increased by 350 percent, going from 9,500 offers in 2019 to over 43,000 offers in 2024. Upon the first-round of offers this year, 94 percent of families first received an offer, compared to 82 percent in 2020, meaning there were initially 2,589 families that did not receive a 3-K offer this year, compared to nearly families who did not get a 3-K offer in 2019. Throughout the summer, New York City Public Schools worked with families so that more than 2,500 families received offers by mid-August. This marks the first-time 100 percent of applicants who applied on-time, received a 3-K offer in New York City history — and, the vast majority of families are getting the program of their preference. This admissions cycle, 71 percent of families received their top choice and 85 percent of families received one of their top three choices.

With more than 1,500 seats added since passage of the FY25 Adopted Budget, the city’s 3-K capacity is now over 53,000. Combined with dedicated outreach, these efforts are expected to boost enrollment and ensure efficiency, both operationally and fiscally.

Additionally, last year, Mayor Adams released MyCity, a one-stop-shop portal where parents can easily apply for and track their applications for subsidized child care. In the first year since launching, 65 percent of all applications for child care subsidies were received online through MyCity.

Finally, the administration has dramatically increased early childhood enrollment with over 150,000 children enrolled last year, stabilized the system by reducing the payment timeline to vendors from what was approximately 60 to 90 days to an average of 12 days, and strengthened child care quality with over 90 percent of programs and schools implementing a singular curriculum.

Today’s announcement further builds on the Adams administration’s two years of core educational accomplishments for New York City public school students, including implementing a major literacy initiative through “NYC Reads;” instituting nation-leading dyslexia supports; expanding Gifted and Talented Programs; increasing math test scores by 12 percent and English language arts test scores by 3 percent in 2023; building nine new schools for the 2024-2025 school year alone; helping students prepare for college and careers; cementing new labor contracts for teachers, principals, and staff; and, most recently, unveiling a signature math initiative, “NYC Solves,” as well as creating the Division of Inclusive and Accessible Learning to prioritize the city’s most vulnerable students and families, including multi-language learners and students with disabilities.

“Our Adopted Budget’s responsible $3 billion investment in early childhood education is an investment in the future of our city,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “High quality early childhood education is critical for our children’s cognitive and social-emotional development. It helps close the gap for low income students, children of color, students with disabilities, and English language learners. Pre-K and 3-K also allow both parents to work, potentially doubling the income of working families. We have now added 1,500 3-K seats, many going toward children with the highest needs, and have provided placement for every family that applied. That is hundreds more children on a path to success and families with more money in their pockets. Today we build on our accomplishments with a historic 10-point plan to meet demand through improved outreach and better allocation of seats, ensuring all children have the foundational skills for success.”

“New York City’s recently passed FY25 budget was an opportunity to demonstrate with public dollars that high-quality child care is crucial; to children’s ability to thrive, to families’ ability work and live in the city, and to our economic vitality,” said Richard Buery Jr., CEO, Robin Hood. “The Adams administration and City Council made good on that commitment by prioritizing early learning and bringing us closer to ensuring that all families can afford child care when they need it. Congratulations to Mayor Adams and Speaker Adams on their important collaboration to deliver on economic relief and expanded education opportunities, and to the new deputy chancellor of Early Childhood Education, Simone Hawkins, as she leads the effort to expand access and improve quality of care. New York City can and should continue to lead the nation in providing opportunities for young children and their families.”

“For more than 25 years, the New York City Child Care Consortium has been dedicated to assisting NYC families in securing high-quality child care,” said Tara Gardner, executive director, Day Care Council. “Over the past five years, we have helped place twenty thousand children in child care settings. We are honored to collaborate with the Mayor‘s Office of Child Care and Early Education to ensure that families have equitable access to the essential resources and support necessary to meet their child care needs.”

“As one of the four organizations that have partnered with Promise NYC to ensure that undocumented children are receiving the care and support they need, we are thrilled that the city has expanded funding to $25 million for Promise NYC in the FY25 budget, which will help continue this vital service in supporting new arrivals and immigrant communities,” said Wayne Ho, president and CEO, the Chinese American Planning Council. “Our families have consistently told us that they need access to employment to sustain themselves and their families. Because of Promise NYC, parents can work while their children access affordable care. We want to thank Mayor Adams and the City Council for their leadership, and we look forward to working with them in ensuring the swift implementation of this funding.”

“As a Staten Island provider of Promise NYC, we have seen first-hand the vital role this service plays in our community, empowering families to work and thrive,” said Judith Prado, service referral manager, La Colmena. “Parents in the program say their children feel safe, are learning English, and have a sense of community. Parents are relieved to hear that this program will continue and that their children are going to be safe and protected while they are at work. Every child, regardless of their immigration status, deserves a right to childcare.”

“In Fiscal Year 2024, the Northern Manhattan Improvement Coalition’s Promise NYC team helped hundreds of immigrant families enroll their children in subsidized child care throughout Manhattan and the Bronx,” said Maria Lizardo, executive director, Northern Manhattan Improvement Coalition (NMIC). “Through this crucial initiative, NMIC provided the stability necessary for immigrant parents and caregivers to pursue opportunities to uplift themselves and their families through education and employment. NMIC has seen first-hand that funding like Promise NYC is critical to paving the way for a brighter future for our newest New Yorkers and we applaud the city’s expansion of such important funding. This increased funding will add slots for child care providers, expand access to quality education for immigrant children, and improve our immigrant community members’ ability to participate in our economy.”

“As a community-based provider for Promise NYC in Brooklyn, Center for Family Life in Sunset Park is thrilled that Mayor Adams has fulfilled his promise to New York City’s children and families by allocating $25 million to Promise NYC for child care that keeps children, safe, nourished, and academically enriched, allows their parents to work, and sustains New York City’s small businesses,” Julia Jean-Francois, co-executive director, Center for Family Life in Sunset Park. “With hundreds of families on our waiting list for Promise NYC, increased funding will allow more families to obtain permanent housing and move away from the cliff of economic precarity. We thank Commissioner Dannhauser and the Administration for Children’s Services for supporting vital childcare services for all New York families.”

“Campaign for Children is proud to stand with Mayor Adams, Speaker Adams, leaders of the City Council and the Robin Hood Foundation to announce the important investments and commitments made in the ‘10-Point Plan to Make High-Quality Child Care More Affordable and Accessible,’” said the Campaign for Children. “To that end, we applaud budget commitments that address the 3-K waitlist, support community-rooted outreach and enrollment, expand access to extended day seats, care for immigrant children, and address the needs of children requiring preschool special education. Strong and stable support for early care and education providers is also needed. We look forward to building on progress announced today to ensure the child care workforce is paid fair wages on par with their New York City Public Schools counterparts and that continued progress is achieved with timely payment of providers. Together, we can ensure the highest quality services meet the needs of children and families and that they, the workforce and providers thrive. The 10-point plan announced today is a promising step forward.”

“For more than 25 years, the New York City Child Care Resource Center Consortium has been dedicated to assisting New York City families in securing high-quality child care. Over the past five years, we have helped place twenty thousand children in child care settings. We are honored to collaborate with the Mayor‘s Office of Child Care and Early Education to ensure that families have equitable access to the essential resources and support necessary to meet their child care needs,” said the executive directors of the Day Care Council, Chinese Planning Council, Committee for Hispanic Children and Families, and the Child Development Support Corporation.

“Affordable, accessible early child care and education is critical to a thriving New York City,” said Grace Rauh, executive director, The 5BORO Institute. “The 5BORO Institute issued our child care roadmap for the city earlier this year, proposing policy changes to connect families with the care they need and make child care more affordable. We were thrilled to see city leaders invest earlier this summer in outreach efforts to bring more families into 3-K, and we commend the mayor and city council for making critical investments that will ease the child care burden that far too many families face today.”

ADAMS ADMINISTRATION WINS $15 MILLION FEDERAL GRANT TO BUILD NATION’S LARGEST MUNICIPAL CURBSIDE EV CHARGING PROGRAM

At Least 50 Percent of New Charging Locations Will
Serve Disadvantaged and Low-Income Neighborhoods

Builds on City’s Effort to Reduce Transportation Emissions, Create Inclusive Green Economy

City’s Federal Infrastructure Funding Task Force Has
Won Total of $850 Million in Competitive Grants

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced that New York City has won a $15 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grant Program to build the nation’s largest curbside electric vehicle (EV) charging program. The funding will allow for an additional 600 Level 2 chargers to be installed along streets across the five boroughs, with more than half of those chargers designated for disadvantaged and low-income neighborhoods. Additionally, the funding will allow the city to build 32 solar-powered charging ports at eight different New York City Department of Parks and Recreation (NYC Parks) locations throughout the city. This builds on the city’s existing 100-charger pilot program, launched in conjunction with Con Edison, and supports the city’s goals to transition 100 percent of for-hire vehicle rides to electric or wheelchair-accessible vehicles by 2030.

“We’re building a cleaner, greener, and more affordable city for all New Yorkers, and through initiatives like this, we’re making sure that no New Yorkers are left behind,” said Mayor Adams. “This $15 million grant will let us build the nation’s largest EV charging program, focused on low-income and disadvantaged areas so people living in all five boroughs can afford to drive and charge electric vehicles — especially as we continue to transition all of our for-hire vehicles to EVs through our ‘Green Rides’ initiative. My thanks to the Biden-Harris administration for issuing this grant and to our congressional delegation for helping bring this vital funding back home.”

“Supporting the transition to electric vehicles means ensuring that everyone has quick and easy access to chargers — especially taxi and for-hire-vehicle drivers, who will lead the way towards a modal shift,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “Deep thanks to the Biden-Harris administration and the U.S. Department of Transportation for their continued investment in New York City’s evolving and climate-ready streetscape.”

“Combined with efforts to promote mass transit and cycling, this grant will help us take a big step toward decarbonizing the transportation sector in New York City. The electrification of transportation across five boroughs, including for-hire vehicles, is a vital step in combating the climate crisis for future generations,” said New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “But we must ensure no New Yorker is left behind in the transition to a sustainable tomorrow. As a former cab driver, I understand how important equity of access will be to our efforts to transition for-hire vehicles away from fossil fuels. We thank the Biden-Harris administration, the New York congressional delegation, Mayor Eric Adams, and our sister agencies for their support.”

“This is a win for both working-class New Yorkers and for making our city cleaner and more livable,” said New York City Taxi and Limousine Commissioner David Do. “With the use of EVs surging thanks to the ‘Green Rides’ initiative, we know that the chargers coming out of this grant are not only needed but will go right where they’re needed most — in neighborhoods where TLC drivers live.”

Curbside EV Charger at Norman Avenue in Brooklyn. Credit: DOT

This expansion builds on DOT’s successful curbside EV charging pilot, a partnership with Con Edison. The current system of 100 chargers has the highest utilization of any such system, with an average utilization of 70 percent across all 35 sites throughout the five boroughs. Utilization is measured as the proportion of time an EV is plugged into the charger over a 24-hour period each day. These new chargers will play a critical role in the city’s ambitious “Green Rides” initiative, which requires Uber and Lyft to transition to 100 percent electric or wheelchair-accessible for-hire vehicles by 2030. The chargers will support hard-working, mostly immigrant for-hire vehicles drivers with affordable charging options where they live and work. It will also allow DOT to advance the development of charging infrastructure for micromobility options like e-bikes in the future. As part of New York City’s comprehensive electrification and zero emissions strategy, this project will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality, including averting an estimated 8,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually. This emissions reduction is equivalent to what’s generated by 20.4 million miles driven by an average gasoline-powered passenger vehicle.

Recent federal legislation, including the Biden-Harris administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, have made unprecedented amounts of federal funding available for key projects across the country. Recognizing this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, Mayor Adams formed the Federal Infrastructure Funding Task Force. Under Deputy Mayor Joshi’s guidance, that task force evaluates the competitive grant opportunities available, with a focus on new opportunities made possible through both the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, and works to break down silos and foster creativity across city agencies. The city has aligned its priorities for high-quality, sustainable, and equitable infrastructure with aggressive and creative grant applications from a wide range of infrastructure agencies. To date, the city has received over $850 million in competitive federal infrastructure grant awards from these sources.

Today’s announcement builds on the Adams administration’s efforts to make getting around New York City both more accessible and more affordable, particularly for young people and low-income New Yorkers. In the Fiscal Year 2025 Adopted Budget, the administration partnered with the City Council to invest an additional $20.7 million in “Fair Fares NYC,” expanding eligibility for half-price fares to people making 145 percent of the Federal Poverty Level. The budget also included $11 million to provide free MetroCards to Summer Youth Employment Program participants, who — thanks to the Adams administration’s efforts — are also eligible for free two-month Citi Bike memberships. In 2023, Mayor Adams launched a historic greenway expansion to build 40 new miles of protected bike infrastructure in the outer boroughs, bringing safer, greener transportation options to the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island. In 2022, Mayor Adams unveiled “NYC Ferry Forward,” which created a discount program, similar to Fair Fares, in which seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income riders pay reduced fares for ferry rides.

“I am proud of my work to accelerate our transition to electric vehicles, a critical step for our sustainable future,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “In Albany, I helped pass legislation requiring all new vehicles sold in the state to be zero emission by 2035. Mayor Adams is now ensuring this policy’s success by deploying the nation’s largest curbside charging program. Placing 600 chargers across all five boroughs will put us on the fast track to our goal of all New Yorkers being within 2.5 miles of a charging hub. Significantly, more than half of chargers will be in underserved neighborhoods, allowing the communities most impacted by emissions to have an easy transition to emission free vehicles. Together, we will drive down transportation emissions and charge full speed ahead to a sustainable city.”

“As we confront the urgent threat of climate change, investments like the $15 million grant to expand New York City’s curbside electric vehicle charging infrastructure are vital to building a sustainable and inclusive future,” said New York State Assemblymember Brian Cunningham. “By prioritizing neighborhoods impacted most by climate change, this program not only reduces transportation emissions but also ensures that all New Yorkers, regardless of zip code, have access to the benefits of clean energy. I applaud Mayor Adams and the city for their leadership in making our green economy more equitable and inclusive for everyone.”

“This transformative $15 million investment from the federal government will significantly enhance our electric vehicle infrastructure, particularly in neighborhoods that have historically been underserved,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson. “By expanding access to safe and reliable EV charging, we are not only supporting the transition to cleaner transportation alternatives but also addressing long-standing disparities in our EV infrastructure. This initiative is a significant step forward in ensuring that all Bronx residents, regardless of their neighborhood, have equitable access to charging facilities, fostering a more sustainable and inclusive future for our borough. I want to thank Mayor Eric Adams for his continued investment in reducing transportation emissions and making electric vehicle ownership a practical and widespread reality.”

“Queens and New York City have been battered by climate change in recent years, but we are continuing to turn that pain into purpose as we become global leaders in clean energy and green technology. This federal grant is a critical step forward in that goal, as we build out the necessary infrastructure to foster society’s transition to electric vehicles,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “There is no mission more critical than ensuring our children and grandchildren have not just a habitable environment, but a thriving one, and I look forward to the work ahead alongside this administration in building toward that future.”

MAYOR ADAMS DESTROYS FOUR TONS OF SEIZED CANNABIS PRODUCT AS “OPERATION PADLOCK TO PROTECT” SHUTS DOWN MORE THAN 1,000 UNLICENSED SHOPS

Adams Administration Has Sealed Over 1,000 Illegal Locations, Seized an Estimated $63 Million in Illegal Products, Inspected 100 Percent of Shops Identified as Selling Illegal Cannabis

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Sheriff Anthony Miranda, New York City Police Department (NYPD) Commissioner Edward A. Caban, and New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) Commissioner Vilda Vera Mayuga today destroyed more than four tons, or 576 bags, of seized, illegal cannabis products as inspectors of the New York City Sherriff’s Joint Compliance Task Force have shut down and sealed more than 1,000 illegal cannabis and smoke shops since the start of the city’s successful “Operation Padlock to Protect” nearly four months ago. Mayor Adams also today announced that, as of yesterday, the task force has conducted inspections of 100 percent of known shops identified as selling cannabis illegally and that was part of Operation Padlock to Protect’s initial list of illegal shops.

As a result of the operation’s rapid success, the city has seized more than $63 million in illegal product, which has been taking up an outsized amount of space across NYPD’s network of evidence warehouses. Mayor Adams joined members of the joint task force today — made up of the Sheriff’s Office, the NYPD, and DCWP — to participate in NYPD’s standard evidence destruction process of incinerating illegal substances and products in an environmentally-responsible way. By-product from the incineration of seized evidence is then used as an energy source for the surrounding community.

“Illegal cannabis shops and their products endanger our young people and our quality of life, and that’s why we are padlocking dangerous storefronts and protecting our children, families, and communities from these illegal operators,” said Mayor Adams. “Thanks to the diligent work of the Sherriff’s Joint Compliance Task Force, we have now padlocked over 1,000 illegal shops and seized over $63 million in illegal products. Illegal cannabis nothing like legal cannabis, which is why these illegal products are being incinerated, so they can never return to New York City streets and endanger our youth again. Our successful efforts continue to keep our communities safe and create an environment where legal operators, who uphold public safety and realize the goals of social justice in the cannabis industry, are able to thrive. We are going to ensure that the future of legal cannabis burns bright in New York City.”

“We are grateful for Mayor Adams’ leadership and support with the organization of the Sheriff’s Joint Compliance Task Force and the implementation of ‘Operation Padlock to Protect,’” said Sheriff Miranda. “The Sheriff’s Office, along with our partners in the NYPD and DCWP, has been extremely successful in padlocking the illegal smoke shops that have plagued our city and targeted our youth. We still have some work to do, so we will continue to conduct our inspections to protect the health and safety of our city.”

“Cannabis operators running afoul of the law pose a public safety and health risk to our communities and are destabilizing the emerging legal industry,” said NYPD Commissioner Caban. “The safe sale and distribution of legal cannabis in New York City can only be ensured by a properly licensed, regulated, and standardized industry. Therefore, the NYPD and our partners on the Sheriff’s Joint Task Force will continue to use every resource available to enforce these cannabis regulations and, most importantly, to protect New Yorkers.”

“We’re committed to supporting New Yorkers, and that begins with protecting their health and wellbeing,” said DCWP Commissioner Mayuga. “Illegal cannabis products pose a threat to our neighbors, especially our youngest New Yorkers, and I’m proud to join Mayor Adams and our fellow agencies in smoking out unlicensed businesses from our communities.”

“Operation Padlock to Protect” systematically conducts joint operations — which include inspections and follow-up inspections — in neighborhoods across the five boroughs. When illegal stores are ordered to be sealed, officers from local NYPD precincts monitor those locations to ensure compliance and alert the Sheriff’s Office when violations of the seal order occur.

Record-high closures build on praise by New Yorkers, who join the administration in prioritizing decisive action against this public safety and quality of life nuisance. Operation Padlock to Protect is another example of the Adams administration’s efforts to double down on its commitment to swiftly shut down illegal operators, protect the city’s children, improve quality of life, and facilitate a safe and thriving legal cannabis market.

The legalization of cannabis is intended to create a new economy to emerge in New York state, while addressing the harmful impact of the “War on Drugs” on Black and Brown New Yorkers. For New York City’s new cannabis economy and justice-involved businesses to thrive, the city and state must protect the development of the legal market. To do so, the Adams administration launched Cannabis NYC, under the New York City Department of Small Business Services, to provide free resources and services for all New Yorkers interested in the cannabis industry. Cannabis NYC has already engaged over 5,000 New Yorkers on its five borough “Lift Off! Cannabis NYC” public education, listening, and outreach tour and over 200 New Yorkers have participated in the FastTrac for Cannabis Entrepreneurs sessions, which connects legal cannabis business owners and entrepreneurs with free, high-quality training and advice delivered by leading voices in the legal cannabis industry.

“Illicit cannabis storefronts have plagued our communities and taken business away from hard-working legal retailers,” said New York State Governor Kathy Hochul. “That’s why I worked so hard to pass new laws that grant enforcement powers to expedite the closure of these shops. Since then, this partnership between the state and city has shut down more than 1,300 unlicensed stores statewide. This has allowed sales for legal dispensary owners to skyrocket and taken New York’s cannabis market into its next phase.”

“I was proud to mobilize New Yorkers across all 5 boroughs to pass the SMOKEOUT Act in the State budget, authorizing the City to shut down illegal smoke shops for good,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Mayor Adams, Sheriff Miranda, and Commissioner Caban immediately sprung into action with the spectacularly successful ‘Operation Padlock to Protect.’ We have already closed over 1,000 unlicensed cannabis shops and inspected all known shops in a matter of weeks. That is 1,000 fewer shops attracting armed robberies and selling to children; more than four tons of unregulated cannabis off our streets; and tens of millions of dollars in more tax revenue to invest in communities. This demonstrates what we can achieve when all levels of government come together to address the issues facing New Yorkers.”

“Today’s actions represent a significant win for New Yorkers, whether on Long Island or in New York City,” said State Assemblymember Michaelle C. Solages. “By cracking down on illegal cannabis sales, we are not only protecting our communities from harmful products but also supporting the integrity of our legal market. I commend Mayor Adams and his administration for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the well-being of all New Yorkers. Together, we are ensuring that our neighborhoods remain safe and that the legal cannabis industry can thrive under fair and responsible regulations.”

“Illegal cannabis shops are a blight on our communities and are antithetical to the work of building a legal, regulated cannabis economy that centers social justice and fairness. Continuing to weed out these shops and their potentially harmful products could not be more critical to that effort,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “There must be no place for illegal cannabis operators in the World’s Borough or anywhere else in our city.”

“The sale of illegal, unregulated cannabis not only threatens public safety, but it also undermines legitimate businesses before they even have a chance to open. My office has been steadfast in our efforts to stop these sales by initiating eviction proceedings against illegal vendors and by shutting down mobile dispensaries that are often parked near schools, with product clearly marketed toward our children,” said Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz. “I thank Mayor Adams, the NYPD, and the New York City Sheriff for their leadership in seizing untested, unregulated cannabis and shutting down illegal vendors to protect public health and safety.”

FORWARDING: NYC EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AND THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND MENTAL HYGIENE ADVISE NEW YORKERS TO BEAT THE HEAT

The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory starting 11 A.M. to 8 P.M. Wednesday, August 28

Cooling centers will open across the city. To find locations, including hours of operation, call 311 or visit the City’s Cool Options Map

New Yorkers should also take advantage of additional cool options such as museums, movie theaters, coffee shops, pools, houses of worship, or a neighbor, friend, or family member’s home

August 27, 2024 — New York City Emergency Management Department and the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene advise New Yorkers to take precautions as extreme heat is expected tomorrow. The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for New York City in effect from 11 A.M. to 8 P.M. Wednesday, August 28. According to the National Weather Service heat indices are expected to reach the low 100s. Cooling centers will be open on Wednesday; cooler temperatures are expected the rest of the week.

“Heat indices are expected to reach the lower 100s across the city tomorrow and we urge New Yorkers to take precautions,” said New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol. “Heat can be deadly, and it is important for all New Yorkers to take precautions such as staying hydrated, wearing light clothing, and limiting strenuous outdoor activities. Beat the heat by turning on your air conditioner, visiting a cool option, and help us protect the grid by avoiding the use of major appliances during the day.”

The New York City Emergency Management Department and the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene urge New Yorkers to take steps to protect themselves and help others who may be at increased risk from the heat. For more information, including heat-related health tips and warning signs of heat illness, visit NYC.gov/health or NYC.gov/beattheheat. In New York City, most heat-related deaths occur after exposure to heat in homes without air conditioners. Air conditioning is the best way to stay safe and healthy when it is hot outside, but some people at risk of heat illness do not have or do not turn on an air conditioner.

To help New Yorkers find relief from the heat, New York City cooling centers will be open throughout the five boroughs. Cooling center locations may have changed from last year. To find a cooling center, including accessible facilities closest to you, call 311 (212-639-9675 for Video Relay Service, or TTY: 212-504-4115) or visit the City’s Cool Options Map. This year’s newly-revamped map is now available around the clock and allows New Yorkers to easily locate cooling centers, which the City opens during heat emergencies, and cool options, which include free spaces that offer air-conditioned spaces to escape the heat. New Yorkers can now also find cooling centers that welcome pets throughout the five boroughs. As a reminder, service animals are always allowed at cooling centers.

New Yorkers can access a range of outdoor cooling options, including spray showers, drinking fountains, and more. These resources can be found online at Cool It! NYC. Many of these resources are located in neighborhoods across New York City. New York City outdoor pools are open 11 A.M.-7 P.M., Olympic and intermediate-sized pools will be open until 8PM on Wednesday, August 28. State Parks, including Park pool and Roberto Clemente State Park pool are open, call ahead to confirm. While the city’s emergency heat plan is activated, an allocation of lifeguards will remain in beach lifeguard stations until 8 P.M. to provide additional resources for responding to emergencies. New Yorkers should only swim between 10 A.M. and 6 P.M. when lifeguards are on duty in their chairs.

During extreme heat, the Department of Social Services (DSS) issues a Code Red Alert. During Code Reds, shelter is available to anyone experiencing homelessness, where those experiencing heat-related discomfort are also able to access a designated cooling area. DSS staff and the agency’s not-for-profit contracted outreach teams engage with individuals experiencing homelessness 24/7/365 and redouble their efforts during extreme heat, with a focus on connecting vulnerable New Yorkers experiencing unsheltered homelessness to services and shelter.

ADDITIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY TIPS DURING EXTREME HEAT

Those most vulnerable to heat stress include people without air-conditioning who are adults aged 60 and older, and/or have health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, mental health conditions, or have a cognitive impairment. Check on people who are at-risk and help them find a cool place to stay during heat events.

Go to an air-conditioned location, even if for a few hours.

Stay out of the sun and avoid extreme temperature changes.

Avoid strenuous activity, especially during the sun’s peak hours: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4:00 AM and 7:00 AM.

Remember: drink water, rest, and locate shade if you are working outdoors or if your work is strenuous. Drink water every 15 minutes even if not thirsty (avoid beverages containing alcohol or caffeine), rest in the shade, and watch out for others on outdoor teams. Employers are required to provide water, rest, and shade when work is being done during extreme heat.

Eat small, frequent meals.

Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.

Participate in activities to keep cool, such as going to the movies, visiting museums, walking in an air-conditioned mall, or swimming at a pool or beach.

Make sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens and, in apartments where children live, window guards. Air conditioners in buildings more than six stories must be installed with brackets so they are secured and cannot fall on someone below.

Never leave a child or pets in the vehicle, even for a few minutes.

KNOW THE WARNING SIGNS OF HEAT ILLNESS

Call 911 immediately if you or someone you know has:

Hot dry skin

Trouble breathing

Rapid heartbeat

Confusion, disorientation, or dizziness

Nausea and vomiting

If you or someone you know feels weak or faint, go to a cool place and drink water. If there is no improvement, call a doctor or 911.

KEEPING YOUR PETS SAFE

Avoid dehydration: Pets can dehydrate quickly, so give them plenty of fresh, clean water.

Walk your dog in the morning and evening: When the temperature is very high, do not let your dog linger on hot asphalt. Your pet’s body can heat up quickly, and sensitive paw pads can burn.

Know when your pet is in danger: Symptoms of overheating in pets include excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, unresponsiveness, or even collapse.

IMPROPER FIRE HYDRANT USE

The improper opening of fire hydrants wastes 1,000 gallons of water per minute, causes flooding on city streets, and lowers water pressure to dangerous levels, which hamper the ability of the Fire Department to fight fire safely and quickly.

Use “spray caps” to reduce hydrant output to a safe 25 gallons per minute while still providing relief from the heat. To obtain a spray cap, an adult 18 years or older with proper identification can go to his or her local firehouse and request one.

ENERGY-SAVING TIPS

During periods of intense electrical usage, such as on hot, humid days, it is important to conserve energy as much as possible to avoid brownouts and other electrical disruptions. While diminishing your power usage may seem inconvenient, your cooperation will help to ensure that utility providers are able to provide uninterrupted electrical service to you and your neighbors, particularly those who use electric powered medical equipment or are at risk of heat-related illness and death:

Set your air conditioner to 78°F or “low.”

Run appliances such as ovens, washing machines, dryers and dishwashers in the early morning or late at night when it is cooler outside to reduce heat and moisture in your home.

Close doors to keep cool air in and hot air out when the air conditioner is running.

Keep shades, blinds, and curtains closed. About 40 percent of unwanted heat comes through windows.

Turn off air conditioners, lights, and other appliances when not at home, and use a timer or smart technology to turn on your air conditioner about a half-hour before arriving home. Keep air conditioner filters clean.

If you run a business, keep your door closed while the air conditioner is running.

Tell your utility provider if you or someone you know depend on medical equipment that requires electricity.

For more information, visit NYC.gov/beattheheat. New Yorkers are also encouraged to stay informed by signing up for Notify NYC, the City’s free emergency communications program, to receive free emergency alerts and updates in your preferred language and format by visiting NYC.gov/NotifyNYC, calling 311 (212-639-9675 for Video Relay Service, or TTY: 212-504-4115), following @NotifyNYC on Twitter, or getting the free Notify NYC mobile application for your Apple or Android device.

MAYOR ADAMS LAUNCHES MAJOR STEP TO PUT THE “PARK” BACK IN PARK AVENUE

City Releases RFP to Redesign Park Avenue Between East 46th Street and East 57th Street, as Greener, Safer, More Welcoming Corridor

City Continues to Advance Efforts to Add Public Space in Business Districts

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez today announced a major step to put the park back in Park Avenue between East 46th Street and East 57th Street by adding greenery, public seating, concessions, and safer crossings for pedestrians. The city released an RFP today to help develop a cohesive design vision for that portion of Park Avenue, which sits atop the Grand Central Terminal Train Shed — currently undergoing a major capital rehabilitation by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA)’s Metro-North Railroad. This effort comes as the city continues to advance its vision to permanently reimagine Fifth Avenue as a safer, less congested, pedestrian-centered boulevard, as well as other public realm projects in commercial corridors across the city.

“High-quality public spaces aren’t just a luxury — they’re a necessity, and they’re a vital component of our vision to revitalize commercial corridors like Midtown and build a safer, more affordable, better city for all New Yorkers,” said Mayor Adams. “Our ambitious project will ensure that as the MTA completes its underground structural work, the Park Avenue that goes back on top will be better than ever, with more space for people to enjoy the greatest city in the world.”

“We are seizing the opportunity to make transformative changes to ensure New York City is the place where people want to be,” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “The Park Avenue redesign exemplifies investments we are making not only to enhance our public realm but to help reshape business districts into even more livable neighborhoods that attract businesses and workers and generate economic growth that benefits all New Yorkers.”

“As the MTA works underground to shore up our train infrastructure, we are taking this unique moment to make the vital artery, Park Avenue, a destination,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “Lighting, furniture, and concessions will create more of the vibrant space New Yorkers love and deserve.”

“As our administration made clear in the ‘Making New York Work for Everyone’ action plan, a dynamic public realm ensures our commercial corridors remain vibrant hubs for daily life,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “This important project along Park Avenue — one of the world’s great thoroughfares — exemplifies the bright future for Midtown Manhattan by bringing beautiful open space, housing, and culture next to modern offices.”

“We’re putting the ‘park’ back in Park Avenue! This project will transform this iconic stretch of Manhattan’s Park Avenue by adding greenery and making important safety improvements. The Adams administration continues to reimagine public space in record ways,” said DOT Commissioner Rodriguez. “This street redesign is a key piece of a new vision for East Midtown, and we look forward to identifying a partner to make this vision a reality.”

“The East Midtown Rezoning continues to deliver for the public, as funds generated from private development will help us deliver a greener and safer Park Avenue,” said New York City Department of City Planning Director and New York City Planning Commission Chair Dan Garodnick. “This is just another example of how we’re planning ahead to improve livability and public safety in New York.”

“This administration is transforming urban space and finding opportunities to create safer, calmer, and quieter places within our streetscape,” said New York City Department of Design and Construction Commissioner Thomas Foley. “Old Park Avenue placed much more emphasis on the ‘park’ and we can get back to that while preserving mobility with dedication to a new set of design principles that values people’s health above all. We look forward to continuing to partner with DOT and the East Midtown Governing Group to implement positive upgrades to this community.”

“Collaborating with sister agencies to enhance our green spaces is a cornerstone of our commitment to New Yorkers. This synergy allows us to create vibrant, accessible environments that enrich the lives of all residents, promote community well-being, and sustain the natural beauty of our city,” said New York City Department of Parks and Recreation Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “Reimagining Park Avenue builds on this administration’s efforts to enhance public safety, promote sustainable transportation, and develop exceptional public spaces in Midtown.”

“As a city, we understand the importance of creating more green and vibrant corridors across the whole city,” said Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu. “Investing in the redesigns of Park Avenue and Fifth Avenue continue to show progress in our commitment to improve the connectivity and feel of neighborhoods where we live, work, and play.”

“Reimagining Park Avenue further advances implementation of the ‘New’ New York Panel’s recommendations to reshape our business districts with great public space,” said “New” New York Executive Director B.J. Jones. “This effort joins Broadway Vision, the redesign of Fifth Avenue, and more to make Midtown an inviting, pedestrian-friendly global center of commerce.”

“This is a great example of collaboration across levels of government leading to a more efficient process and a better result for the public,” said MTA Construction & Development President Jamie Torres-Springer. “As we work to rebuild the Grand Central Terminal Train Shed running under Park Avenue, we’re thrilled to work with our partners at City Hall and DOT to coordinate the city’s investments to improve the streetscape with the essential state of good repair work happening below.”

Currently, the City of New York and the MTA are rehabilitating and repairing the Grand Central Terminal Train Shed, which spans from East 46th Street to East 57th Street. This ambitious construction project will address critical infrastructure needs by replacing the train shed roof structure and waterproofing membrane while enhancing Park Avenue, which sits atop the train shed and will be removed and reconstructed in stages as subsurface work proceeds. As the MTA completes its train shed work, Park Avenue will be restored with an expanded median for pedestrians featuring verdant landscaping and seating. The transformational redesign of Park Avenue that emerges from this project will enhance public space, promote sustainable transit options, and foster community among residents and visitors. The MTA began its construction on the block of Park Avenue between East 47th and East 48th Street. That block will be the first along the avenue to feature a wider median when the street is restored as early as 2025.

Through the RFP process, DOT is seeking design services from a contractor with a background in landscape architecture or urban design to help fill in that wider median, encompassing pedestrian enhancements, cycling infrastructure, landscaping, and innovative streetscape amenities. The selected design team will work with relevant agencies and engage with local stakeholders to produce design concepts that are infrastructurally sound and meet community needs.

Park Avenue Rendering
Concept for a reimagined Park Avenue, with wider median. Credit: DOT

The RFP builds on DOT’s public engagement along Park Avenue that began in 2020 through an online visioning survey that received over 1,700 responses. The overwhelming majority of respondents supported a redesign of Park Avenue with expanded medians allowing for enhanced pedestrian space and potential to create additional capacity for seating, art, concessions, landscaping, or possible bike connections. Park Avenue’s median will be redesigned in coordination with the MTA and community stakeholders, including local businesses. Funding for the RFP has been provided through the East Midtown Governing Group, which was created as a part of the 2017 Greater East Midtown Rezoning. The rezoning created a mechanism through which new office development and the sale of development rights require contribution to public realm improvements, like this redesign of Park Avenue.

The Park Avenue redesign will be an important next step in the effort to create a world-class network of public space in Midtown, as recommended by the “New” New York Panel to rebuild New York City’s economy as outlined in the “Making New York Work for Everyone” action plan. It builds on other initiatives, including expansion of the Broadway Vision Plan, launch of the Fifth Avenue redesign, opening of Plaza33 at Penn Station, a new agreement to support the replacement and expansion of the Port Authority Bus Terminal, and more.

“I applaud today’s announcement of a transformational redesign of Park Avenue that will add new public spaces in one of Manhattan’s most congested corridors,” said U.S. Representative Jerrold Nadler. “I look forward to seeing this project come to life to make Park Avenue a safer, more enjoyable place to live and visit.”

“I am pleased to hear that the city government is moving forward with this plan to make Fifth Avenue a safer, more pedestrian-friendly part of Manhattan,” said New York State Senator Liz Krueger. “I am excited to seeing how this project improves foot traffic, introduces new and much needed green space to our district, and opens up new public space on over ten city blocks.”

“The launch of the Grand Central Train Shed capital development RFP gives us an opportunity to reimagine the central corridor to make it pedestrian-friendly and overall more enjoyable with the potential for more green space and seating,” said New York State Assemblymember Alex Bores. “I encourage all firms interested in this project to submit proposals and help us put the ‘park’ back in ‘Park Avenue.’”

“Widening and adding functional infrastructure to the Park Avenue medians will make for a safer, more sustainable, more enjoyable boulevard for pedestrians and cyclists,” said Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine. “Manhattanites, visitors, and I look forward to seeing how these iconic medians will be reimagined as shared space.”

“Today, we take a significant step forward in reimagining midtown Manhattan,” said New York City Councilmember Keith Powers. “As Chair of the East Midtown Governing Group, we have worked diligently in setting up this RFP process, which will help select the best candidate who provides the necessary experience required to design a concept that will put New Yorkers first. I am excited to participate in this process over the next several months and work closely with the MTA, DOT, and other relevant sister agencies.”

“Midtown Manhattan is in desperate need of green space, and we’re thrilled that the City of New York is taking steps to address that by issuing this RFP,” said Rob Brynes, president, East Midtown Partnership. “By enhancing the public realm just steps from Grand Central Terminal, Mayor Adams, Commissioner Rodriguez, and DOT staff will immeasurably enhance the Midtown Experience, and we thank them.”

“While dramatic changes continue to reshape the skyline of Park Avenue with the rise of JPMorgan Chase’s 270 Park Avenue and other new state of the art office towers on the drawing board; and below the surface improvements with the replacement of the MTA Metro-North train shed and the opening of Grand Central Madison, the ground level experience is now also being reimagined enhancing accessible open public space for Midtown East helping to put the PARK back in Park Avenue,” said Fred Cerullo, president and CEO, Grand Central Partnership President.

“Manhattan Community Board 6 (CB6) is eager to see the Park Avenue Landscape Design project move forward,” said Jason Froimowitz, director to the East Midtown Public Realm Improvement Fund, Manhattan CB6. “This initiative is an important step in enhancing the public realm for all who live, work, and visit this segment of Park Avenue. CB6 looks forward to working with DOT and our fellow stakeholders to ensure the project reflects the community’s needs.”

“The East Midtown Governing Group, developed by Manhattan Community Board 5 (CB5) in partnership with DCP and community stakeholders following the 2017 Greater East Midtown Rezoning, funded this public realm improvement project,” said Bradley Sherburne, chair, Manhattan CB5 and Nancy Goshow, land use, housing, and zoning chair, Manhattan CB5. “Manhattan CB5 applauds this integrated approach for the city’s transit, pedestrian improvements, and public space. We believe collaboration leads to success, and we look forward to working with the team that is selected in this RFP process to ensure the best possible outcome for our community and the city.”

MAYOR ADAMS LAUNCHES “MONEY IN YOUR POCKET” INITIATIVE ACROSS MORE THAN 20 NEIGHBORHOODS TO HELP DELIVER BENEFITS DIRECTLY TO NEW YORKERS, MAKE NEW YORK CITY MORE AFFORDABLE

Adams Administration Will Surge Underserved Neighborhoods with Hundreds of City Employees to Screen for Benefits On-the-Spot, Help New Yorkers Save Money on Food, Rent, Taxes, and Other Needs

Adams Administration Has Helped New Yorkers Save More Than $30 Billion Through Access to Programs and Benefits

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today launched a citywide “Money in Your Pockets” initiative to help New Yorkers screen for or learn about more than 70 city, state, and federal programs that can make life in New York City more affordable. The New York City Public Engagement Unit (PEU) trained hundreds of staff from across city government and The City University of New York students, who will begin to visit more than 20 underserved neighborhoods and New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) buildings, starting today and continuing on a weekly basis, to help thousands of New Yorkers find out which benefits they may be eligible to receive.

To help New Yorkers easily view and understand programs they may be eligible for, Mayor Adams today also released a “Money in Your Pocket Guide,” which directly links to eligibility requirements and relevant applications over 40 of the benefits. Since taking office, the Adams administration has helped New Yorkers save more than $30 billion through launching, administering, and helping New Yorkers take advantage of programs across all levels of government from Big Apple Connect to Fair Fares to the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and more.

“I was raised by a single mother who had to work several jobs to make sure my siblings and I had a roof over our heads and food on the table. The hustle was real. Unfortunately, many New Yorkers are still doing the same today and far too many New Yorkers continue to feel that the deck is stacked against them. But our administration won’t allow that to be the case — we are looking out for New Yorkers and working to make this city more affordable,” said Mayor Adams. “Today, we are launching our ‘Money in Your Pockets’ initiative to help New Yorkers find out which benefits they are eligible for and build on the billions of dollars we have helped put into the pockets of hard-working families. We are building a city that expands opportunity and prosperity to every neighborhood and community because New Yorkers deserve their fair share, and we’re going to deliver that to them.”

“By connecting New Yorkers directly to critical resources and support, we’re taking another major step toward making our city more livable for everyone,” said Chief of Staff Camille Joseph Varlack. “We want every New Yorker to have access to the benefits that can make life more affordable and equitable and that is why our dedicated team will be meeting people where they are to ensure that no one is left behind. Together, we’re not just creating opportunities — we’re building a more inclusive city where every resident can thrive.”

“Government is at its best when it’s working in the best interest of the people we are elected or appointed to serve,” said Chief Advisor Ingrid P. Lewis-Martin. “The ‘Money in Your Pocket’ initiative does exactly that by helping to ensure that New Yorkers receive every single benefit and service for which they are entitled and deserve. Additionally, it enables the Adams administration to build a more affordable and equitable New York City. I am proud of our strives to put New Yorkers first.”

“Since the start of the Adams administration, we have been squarely focused on ensuring that hard-working New Yorkers receive all available benefits, and that every eligible dollar goes back into their pockets,” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “After successfully increasing the EITC in our first year in office and boosting enrollment of thousands more children in child care services, today’s announcement underscores our ongoing, citywide commitment to working to enroll every New Yorker in every eligible benefit, fulfilling our promise to support working-class New Yorkers, and ensuring that everyone, across our communities, can thrive.”

“Today, we’re knocking on doors, talking with fellow New Yorkers on the block, and focusing in on key neighborhoods with one goal: helping more people eligible for services receive those benefits,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “Whether it is food assistance, child care, or housing support, among others, we want to help you navigate how you may be able to access these critical services. Take a moment today and interact with city staff to see if you or your family could benefit.”

“The ‘Money in Your Pocket’ initiative is just another example of the concrete actions the Adams administration is taking to help working families keep costs down and increase their bottom line,” said Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Ana J. Almanzar. “Whether it’s facilitating access to benefits and tax credits, enrolling their kids in free child care and afterschool programs, or connecting families with low-cost health care, we are taking proactive measures to ensure families have access and opportunity to tap into every resource available to them.”

“This administration has made it a major priority to put money back in New Yorkers’ pockets, and proactive public outreach to help New Yorkers find benefits is key to that work,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “This cross-government, on-the-ground action is how we improve the lives of working-class people and improve affordability in New York City.”

“Too often, New Yorkers don’t access benefits because they don’t know they’re available to them or they think they’re too difficult to access,” said PEU Executive Director Adrienne Lever. “We are thrilled to lead this citywide effort to proactively engage New Yorkers and help connect them to benefits that can help put money back in their pockets.”

“New Yorkers have access to a comprehensive array of federal, state, and city public benefits that can assist them with everything from remaining in their homes, to buying food and other essentials, to managing transportation costs, and much more,” said New York City Human Resources Administration Administrator Scott French. “And while we have made great strides in making it easier to access our benefits online, we want to ensure all New Yorkers who could benefit from these programs are aware of them, which is why direct, community-centered outreach events like this initiative are critical to our efforts to support low-income communities, make the city more affordable, and help New Yorkers keep more of their hard-earned money in their pockets.”

“Our benefits access efforts have helped millions of residents connect with and learn about city, state, and federal public programs,” said Mayor’s Office for Economic Opportunity Executive Director Carson Hicks. “This initiative is important because, through a combination of digital tools and dedicated on-the-ground staff, it helps New Yorkers in every part of the city to identify and apply for the assistance they qualify for in an easy and seamless way.”

“Affordability is a top priority for many New Yorkers, including the one in 17 who call NYCHA home,” said NYCHA Chief Executive Officer Lisa Bova-Hiatt. “We commend the Adams administration on launching the ‘Money in Your Pocket’ initiative to help New Yorkers find and access the programs and resources available to them, thereby making our great city more equitable and livable.”

Millions of New Yorkers have access to a range of programs and financial benefits through the city, but many who are eligible have yet to apply. Programs like Fair Fares — which offers a 50 percent discount on transit — and Freeze Your Rent — which prevents rent increases for eligible older adults and those with disabilities — can make living in the five boroughs more affordable for New Yorkers. Despite the availability of these programs and constant outreach from the administration, many New Yorkers still remain unaware of them, leaving many programs undersubscribed.

Since taking office, the Adams administration has launched, administered, and advocated for a broad range of benefits that have saved New Yorkers more than $30 billion dollars. Highlights of these savings include:

Big Apple Connect: Free high-speed internet and basic TV for public housing residents – $153 million.
Child Care Vouchers: Vouchers for affordable child care – $1.9 billion.
Direct Property Tax Relief: A range of tax abatements for seniors, disabled homeowners, and other New Yorkers – $1 billion.
EITC: Returns tax dollars to qualifying families and individuals – $345 million.
Groceries to Go: Monthly credits to purchase Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program eligible groceries for delivery or pickup – $8 million.
NYC Financial Empowerment Centers: Free one-on-one professional financial counseling and coaching to help increase savings, reduce debts, and support New Yorkers’ financial goals – $26 million.
Year-round free tax prep services for individuals, families, and self-employed New Yorkers – $220 million.
Medical Debt Relief: The elimination of medical debt for 500,000 New Yorkers – $1.8 billion.
Summer Rising: Free summer programming, including free meals, transportation, and medical and social services support for K-8 students – $1.9 billion.
Transportation for Older New Yorkers: Free transportation to help older New Yorkers get to critical medical appointments, social service appointments, and more – $1.5 million.

“We are going directly to New Yorkers across all 5 boroughs to help them access benefits. Our ‘Money in Your Pocket’ Tour provides unprecedented engagement with our fellow New Yorkers to help them enroll in key benefits programs like Big Apple Connect and Fair Fares,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “In Albany, I was proud to champion the Earned Income Tax Credit and we are deploying trained staff to 30 underserved communities to inform people of the money EITC can save them. This will allow more New Yorkers to put food on the table, keep a roof over their heads, and provide for their families. I am now working with my Albany colleagues to pass the One City Act which will expedite benefits access by allowing agencies to share data and streamline applications. Together, we will reach every New Yorker and provide them the support they deserve.”

“I fully support Mayor Adams “Money In Your Pocket Tour” as it brings essential benefits directly to our hardworking New Yorkers,” said New York State Assemblymember Eddie Gibbs. “This initiative is a crucial step toward ensuring that everyone in our city has access to the resources they need to thrive. By making these benefits more accessible, we are not only empowering our residents but also strengthening the economic fabric of our communities.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES CITY HALL, OTHER CITY BUILDINGS TO BE LIT YELLOW TONIGHT IN HONOR OF INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE REMEMBRANCE OF THE SLAVE TRADE AND ITS ABOLITION

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced that City Hall and other municipal buildings will be lit up yellow tonight in honor of International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition.

“Today, we reflect on the inhumanity of slavery, remember those in Haiti who fought in the name of the justice to abolish it, and recommit ourselves to the shared principles of liberty, dignity, and equality for all,” said Mayor Adams. “Now, more than ever, to build a better future, we must reconcile with our troubled past. Let us all work together to remember our collective history and use it as a lesson to turn a painful moment into a purposeful one.”

Designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1998, International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition commemorates the start of a 1791 uprising among the enslaved people of Haiti that would culminate in both the Haitian Revolution and the abolition of the slave trade. Mayor Adams acknowledges both the harrowing tragedy of the transatlantic slave trade as well as the vital role the uprising played in ending it.

In addition to City Hall, the following city buildings will be lit up yellow starting tonight at sundown:

Bronx Borough Hall: 851 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY 10451
Brooklyn Borough Hall: 209 Joralemon Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201
The David N. Dinkins Manhattan Municipal Building: 1 Centre Street, New York, NY 10007
Gracie Mansion: East 88th Street & East End Avenue, New York, NY 10028
Queens Borough Hall: 120-55 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens, NY 11424
Staten Island Borough Hall: 10 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island, NY 10301

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES LARGEST CIVIL RIGHTS SETTLEMENT IN CITY HISTORY, PROTECTING NEW YORKERS FROM HOUSING DISCRIMINATION

City Secures 850 Apartments for Voucher Holders and Imposes $1 Million in Civil Penalties in Landmark Settlement Exposing Discriminatory and Exclusionary Practices by Property Management Company and Landlord

Historic Settlement Terms Include Highest Civil Penalties Ever Ordered for Housing Discrimination Case Under NYC Human Rights Law and Record Number of Homes Set Aside for Voucher Holders

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and the New York City Commission on Human Rights (CCHR) today announced the largest civil rights settlement in city history for a housing discrimination settlement against Parkchester Preservation Management that will hold the company accountable for discriminating against voucher holders. CCHR imposed $1 million in civil penalties, the highest ever ordered for violations under the housing provisions of the New York City Human Rights Law and secured 850 apartment units to be set aside for housing voucher holders, the most ever secured in a CCHR settlement. With today’s historic settlement, Mayor Adams has once again delivered on another key promise in his 2023 State of the City address to crack down on landlords who discriminate against tenants based on their source of income. Source of income discrimination — commonly referred to as “voucher discrimination” — occurs when people are denied housing or tenants are treated as less because they use a form of a public subsidy — including Section 8 and City Fighting Homelessness and Eviction Prevention Supplement (CityFHEPS) vouchers — to pay their rent.

“Today, our administration is using the full power of the legal system to tell New York City tenants: we’ve got your back,” said Mayor Adams. “While we are tackling a generational housing shortage and affordability crisis, our administration is also going after the bad actors who prey on New Yorkers in the housing market. With a record settlement and 850 homes set aside to ensure voucher holders have access to affordable housing units, this announcement is a win for the everyday New Yorkers in search of safe, stable housing, and a warning sign for any predatory group trying to harm tenants.”

“The city must use all tools in its toolbox to protect access to housing for New Yorkers,” said City Hall Chief Counsel Lisa Zornberg. “Robust enforcement of our housing discrimination laws is a critical tool not only to secure justice for those denied access to rental units because of their source of income, but to deter future violators. This landmark resolution, announced by the New York City Commission on Human Rights, puts the entire real estate industry on notice: Housing discrimination will not be tolerated in this city.”

“Today’s announcement sends a message: Source-of-income discrimination is illegal, and if New York City finds evidence of discrimination, there will be consequences,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “From record-breaking production of affordable housing, to our ‘City of Yes’ plan to open up housing opportunities across the city, to aggressive enforcement of our housing laws, our administration is delivering for New York City tenants.”

“Access to safe and stable housing is key for New Yorkers to thrive,” said CCHR Deputy Commissioner of Law Enforcement Katherine Carroll. “This settlement is the culmination of a long journey toward justice for New Yorkers who experience source of income discrimination and a message to housing providers throughout New York City. There is no room for housing discrimination in our city. CCHR will continue to work tirelessly to enforce the law and reach meaningful resolutions aimed at restoring those impacted by discrimination.”

“I commend Mayor Eric Adams and CCHR for their historic achievement in securing the largest civil rights settlement in our city’s history,” said New York City Councilmember Nantasha Williams, chair, Committee of Civil and Human Rights. “This landmark $1 million penalty and the setting aside of 850 apartment units for housing voucher holders sends a powerful message that source of income discrimination has no place in New York City. The CCHR’s action exemplifies our city’s unwavering commitment to protecting the right of all New Yorkers to safe and fair housing. This settlement is not just a victory for the 850 families who will benefit directly, but a strong affirmation of our dedication to upholding the principles of equity and justice across all communities.”

The landmark case against Parkchester Preservation Management involved the exclusion of renters with vouchers from the apartment complex by requiring minimum income requirements, non-refundable deposits, and other requirements for tenancy that are designed to discriminate against voucher holders. Parkchester Preservation Management required housing applicants to have specific levels of income in relation to the monthly rent of a unit and would not consider the full voucher amount as part of the applicant’s income. This practice made it nearly impossible for anyone with a rental subsidy to qualify for a unit. CCHR concluded that these practices sought to discriminate against voucher holders and keep them from obtaining housing. Of the over 6,000 rental units in Parkchester Preservation Management, only a small fraction were occupied by voucher holders.

Source of income discrimination has been illegal in New York City since 2008 under the city’s Human Rights Law, but it remains one of the most common forms of housing discrimination reported to CCHR. In resolving housing discrimination cases, CCHR works to ensure meaningful progress and protections for tenants, including through guaranteed access to housing opportunities, monetary damages for complainants, and civil penalties. CCHR can also mandate measures to help protect against any future discriminatory practices, including requiring trainings, setting aside a certain number of units for voucher holders, incentivizing real estate brokers to connect voucher holders to housing opportunities, and ensuring that CCHR can monitor ongoing practices.

In his 2023 State of the City, Mayor Adams unveiled a multimillion-dollar investment to address source of income discrimination, including plans to contract with an external provider to identify instances of housing discrimination and support related enforcement work. The New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) launched a landmark pilot program with the Housing Rights Initiative (HRI) to both identify source of income discrimination and inform the city’s larger enforcement efforts. Later this year, HPD will issue a new, expanded contract for fair housing testing and related efforts to help root out source of income discrimination across the city.

CCHR works proactively to educate real estate entities across diverse communities to prevent discrimination before it occurs. In September 2023, CCHR launched a first-of-its-kind partnership with Fordham University’s Real Estate Institute, resulting in a continuing education course to stop illegal voucher discrimination. By taking CCHR’s class, realtors and brokers receive 1.5 credits towards the renewal of their license, which is required every two years. Upcoming sessions can be found on CCHR’s website.

Today’s announcement is part of an ongoing commitment by the Adams administration to develop policies and invest in programs to support tenants. As part of a 2024 State of the City commitment, the administration launched the Tenant Protection Cabinet, a multi-agency collaboration to better serve renters in New York City by developing policies and long-term strategies that support tenants and ensure safer, fairer housing conditions. Last summer, the New York City Public Engagement Unit (PEU) launched a live operator tenant helpline to provide immediate support to New York tenants who face potential eviction, landlord harassment, or unacceptable living conditions. New Yorkers seeking the PEU Tenant Helpline can call 311 and be referred to a live operator.

Mayor Adams has taken strong enforcement action against landlords who do not properly maintain their properties, most recently obtaining over $4 million and the appointment of a 7A administrator (an individual appointed by a court to operate privately-owned buildings that have conditions that are dangerous to the tenants’ life, health, and safety) against a single landlord with a portfolio of buildings.

New Yorkers who have witnessed or experienced discrimination can contact CCHR at 212-416-0197 or by filing a report online.

“Today’s announcement is a major victory for tenants’ rights in New York City,” said Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams. “I commend the administration and CCHR for this historic settlement, which sends a clear message that discrimination will not be tolerated, and that New Yorkers regardless of income source have a fair chance at securing safe, affordable housing.”

“We are grateful to Mayor Eric Adams and the New York City Commission on Human Rights for securing the largest civil rights settlement in our city’s history,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “Today’s announcement sends a clear message to unscrupulous landlords that they will be held accountable for discriminatory practices that unfairly target individuals using Section 8 and CityFHEPS housing vouchers. It is imperative that every New Yorker has fair and equitable access to affordable, safe, and quality housing, and our city has just reaffirmed that fundamental right.”

“As a civil rights lawyer, I dedicated my legal career to combatting all forms of discrimination,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Today, we make historic strides in ending housing discrimination with a record $1 million settlement for discrimination against housing voucher holders. Our CityFHEPS and other vouchers are an important tool to uplift families out of homelessness and allow them to stand on their own two feet. It is also sound fiscal policy, saving us at least $1,500 per week for each family that no longer needs to stay in the shelter system. By ending discrimination against voucher holders, we will ensure a housing market that welcomes all New Yorkers.”

“Parkchester Preservation Management’s agreement to eliminate minimum income requirements for tenants with rental subsidies is a critical step forward,” said Elizabeth Grossman, executive director and general counsel, Fair Housing Justice Center. “This settlement puts us on a path toward opening access to thousands of apartments in the Bronx and to reducing the threat of homelessness for New Yorkers.”

“We at Housing Rights Initiative applaud the announcement of this historic settlement,” said Aaron Carr, founder and executive director, HRI. “By imposing such a large penalty and securing stable homes for 850 households with vouchers, the Commission on Human Rights and the New York City Mayor’s Office are sending a clear message to all landlords and brokers that discrimination on the basis of an applicant’s source of income is unacceptable in this city, and violators like Parkchester Preservation Management will be held accountable to the full extent of the law.”

“Today’s settlement is a victory for all voucher holders,” said Amy Blumsack, director of organizing and policy, Neighbors Together. “It shows that when resources and will are aligned, discriminatory landlords will receive more than a slap on the wrist; justice will be served and landlords who break the law will experience consequences that match their size and the scope of discrimination. Neighbors Together applauds CCHR for their work, and we look forward to them holding offenders accountable and securing restitution for voucher holders in a meaningful way.”

“As someone who has built a bridge between voucher holders and landlords who care, it’s horrible to hear stories of multitudes of voucher holders who are unable to get housed because a property owner is discriminating against them,” said Shams DaBaron, housing and homelessness advocate. “It’s a horrible thing to assume that because someone has a voucher, they will make a bad tenant. Thankfully, Mayor Adams and his administration along with advocates who fight against voucher discrimination have successfully pursued those bad actors and are bringing justice for so many in need.”

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MAYOR ADAMS ISSUES ORDER REQUIRING CITY AGENCIES TO REVIEW CITY OWNED AND CONTROLLED LAND FOR POTENTIAL HOUSING DEVELOPMENT SITES

Part of Adams Administration’s Pledge to Use Every Possible Tool to Create More Affordable Housing and Deliver 500,000 New Housing Units by 2032

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the issuance of executive order 43 requiring city agencies to review their city owned and controlled land for potential housing development sites. As New York City faces a generational affordable housing crisis with just a 1.4 percent rental vacancy rate, the Adams administration is proposing bold, forward-thinking solutions and using every possible tool available to deliver the affordable housing that New Yorkers need. The executive order will help support the Adams administration’s bold “moonshot” goal of building 500,000 new homes by 2032.

“If there’s any land within the city’s control that has even the remotest potential to develop affordable housing, our administration will take action,” said Mayor Adams. “To solve a generational affordable housing crisis, we must bring new innovative ideas to the table and activate all city agencies, whether they are directly involved in creating housing or not, to help deliver for New Yorkers. Today’s executive order is one of the many ways we will continue to exhaust every option to meet this crisis head on and fulfil our pledge of building 500,000 new housing units by 2032.”

“Today, we take a significant step forward in our mission to tackle New York City’s housing crisis head-on,” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “By directing city agencies to review and assess all city-owned and controlled land for potential housing development, we are unlocking new opportunities to build more affordable housing where they are needed most. This is a crucial component of our broader strategy to deliver 500,000 new housing units by 2032 and to ensure that every New Yorker has access to safe, affordable housing.”

“Today, this administration doubles down on its commitment to address the city’s historically low 1.4 percent vacancy rate and use every tool in our toolkit to deliver the housing New Yorkers deserve,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “Building off our ‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity’ proposal and wins in Albany to increase housing production, this whole of government response will allow us to develop underutilized land. I’m grateful for every agency doing their part.”

“The mayor’s executive action announced today will add to our administration’s short-, medium-, and long-term strategies to tackle the city’s housing issues,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “We’re helping more people than ever access CityFHEPS vouchers, streamlining our regulatory architecture to help build a little more housing in every borough, and, with this executive order, evaluating all sites owned by the city for potential inclusion in our affordable housing efforts. Ultimately, every individual, family, and child deserves a permanent home and this administration will use every tool to make that goal a reality.”

Effective immediately, the executive order establishes the City Housing Activation Task Force, with representatives from mayoral agencies and other public entities. The task force will review land under the ownership and control of the city to identify potential sites for housing development, and develop guidelines to ensure agency policies promote housing production. All locations that can be used to further housing production or on adjacent or nearby sites without disruption to critical municipal operations will be considered.

“As our city faces a critical affordable housing shortage, we are proud to be part of this innovative, all-of-city approach to tackling the problem,” said New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services Commissioner Louis A. Molina. “Through an intensive review of city-owned and controlled land, we’re committed to leveraging every asset at our disposal to contribute to this ambitious goal of 500,000 new homes by 2032 and support this bold vision to ensure that every New Yorker has access to affordable housing.”

“Housing policy and education policy are closely intertwined,” said New York City Public Schools Chancellor David C. Banks. “Today’s announcement is a significant step toward making our city affordable for all New Yorkers, including the next generation. We want families to raise their children in our city and send them to New York City Public Schools, and this executive order helps us work toward that goal.”

“In the midst of a profound affordable housing crisis, we applaud this executive order from Mayor Adams as the administration leaves no stone unturned in its efforts to develop new housing and lower costs for New Yorkers,” said New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala. “DEP has already successfully worked with our partners at HPD to develop housing and we will continue to do so under this direction from Mayor Adams.”

“Mayor Eric Adams’ new executive order is an important step in addressing New York City’s affordable housing crisis,” said New York City Department of Parks and Recreation (NYC Parks) Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “This effort ensures that we can carefully balance the need for housing with the thoughtful use of the valuable facilities under NYC Parks’ jurisdiction. By evaluating those park facilities that may support housing development, without compromising green spaces, we can advance Mayor Adams’ ambitious goal of building 500,000 new homes by 2032 while maintaining the quality of life for all New Yorkers.”

“The ‘City of Yes’ calls for a little more housing in every single neighborhood, and every single neighborhood is exactly where the New York City Department of Sanitation operates,” said New York City Department of Sanitation Commissioner Jessica Tisch. “The Adams administration is innovating around the housing crisis, and the Department of Sanitation will begin its review immediately.”

“Developing new affordable housing is critical to making our city more livable for New Yorkers,” said New York City Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “We look forward to participating in this review and thank Mayor Adams and the administration for taking every step possible to deliver new housing while balancing the city’s critical operations.”

“The Adams Administration has made it clear that we need to leave no stone unturned when it comes to building more housing, and this new executive order will allow for creative solutions to addressing the housing crisis,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) President and CEO Andrew Kimball. “At NYCEDC, we remain committed to working alongside our city agency partners and the private sector to build more housing throughout New York City and make this city an even better place to live, work, play, and learn.”

“Adding to New York City’s affordable housing stock is absolutely necessary to combat the current housing crisis,” said New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) Chief Executive Officer Lisa Bova-Hiatt. “It is critical that we think outside the box and utilize every tool at our disposal in addressing the shortage in housing options, just as NYCHA is using the Public Housing Preservation Trust and PACT program to renovate properties across our portfolio in the face of a nearly $80 billion capital need. NYCHA commends Mayor Adams and his administration for looking inward for meaningful solutions to this challenge, and reviewing city owned land in an effort to build more affordable housing for New Yorkers in need.”

“Safe, affordable, and accessible housing is a critical part of the foundation for better mental and physical health,” said New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan. “Ensuring healthier, longer lives for New Yorkers demands we consider any and all available resources that can support more high-quality and equitably-distributed housing.”

“Housing is essential to good health,” said NYC Health + Hospitals President and CEO Mitchell Katz, MD. “NYC Health + Hospitals’ Housing for Health initiative will create over 650 new affordable homes on hospital land. We are grateful to Mayor Adams for expanding this effort to all city-owned land to help even more New Yorkers find home.”

“We appreciate Mayor Eric Adams’ commitment to affordable housing and look forward to our continued partnership to help his administration reach its goals,” said Anthony W. Marx, president and CEO, The New York Public Library. “We have a model for the innovative solutions necessary to unlock more affordable housing: our state-of-the-art Inwood Library includes deeply affordable housing units, and the proposed redevelopment of our Grand Concourse Library will have a similar provision. We’re excited to explore all options and work in partnership with the city to tackle this urgent issue.”

“Brooklyn Public Library is committed to helping address the city’s affordable housing crisis,” said Linda E. Johnson, president and CEO, Brooklyn Public Library (BPL). “BPL’s Sunset Park Library stands as a successful example, seamlessly integrating 100 percent affordable housing and modern library facilities — the first collaboration of its kind in New York City. We look forward to working with Mayor Adams and the new task force to explore innovative housing approaches.”

“This bold approach has the potential to dramatically improve the quality of life for all New Yorkers by addressing the city’s housing crisis while continuing to modernize its public library buildings to meet the demands of our times,” said Dennis M. Walcott, president and CEO, Queens Public Library. “We look forward to accomplishing these critically important goals through our ongoing collaboration with our government partners and the new task force.”

“Public safety is made possible by many factors, including safe, affordable housing,” said Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) Commissioner Robert Tucker. “Creating new locations for potential housing will help enhance the success of our city. FDNY joins Mayor Adams in his mission of exploring all avenues for providing such housing to New Yorkers.”

“This administration understands that reinvigorating our economy and making the city more livable requires the same level of creative, intelligent planning that we dedicate to enhancing public safety and improving quality of life for hardworking New Yorkers,” said New York City Police Department Commissioner Edward A. Caban. “Ongoing partnerships with our sister agencies, as well as with all the people we serve, remain essential because every mission — including the quest to create more affordable housing — is a shared responsibility.”

“Mayor Adams’ executive order is a bold, transformative decision that will streamline our ongoing efforts to build more affordable housing in every neighborhood,” said New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) Commissioner Adolfo Carrion, Jr. “HPD stands ready to work collaboratively with all government agencies to unlock the housing opportunities and leverage the valuable resources of city-owned land as we work to solve the housing crisis.”

“‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity’ is all about ensuring that every neighborhood helps solve our housing crisis, and we are ready to roll up our sleeves and work with our sister agencies to build new income-restricted, affordable housing on city-owned land,” said New York City Department of City Planning Director Dan Garodnick. “Initiatives like this demonstrate our commitment to turning the tide on our housing shortage and building the homes that New Yorkers need.”

Since the start of his administration, Mayor Adams has made record investments towards creating and preserving affordable housing. Mayor Adams announced back-to-back record breaking years in both creating and connecting New Yorkers to affordable housing. In June, the Adams administration delivered an on-time, balanced, and fiscally-responsible $112.4 billion Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Adopted Budget that invests $2 billion in capital funds across FY25 and FY26 to HPD and NYCHA’s capital budgets. In total, the Adams administration has committed a record $26 billion in housing capital in the current 10-year plan as the city faces a general housing crisis. Last month, Mayor Adams and others announced a landmark $500 million investment from the Battery Park City Authority’s Joint Purpose Fund to build and maintain affordable housing. This spring, thanks to Mayor Adams’ vision and leadership, the city celebrated the largest 100 percent affordable housing project in 40 years with the Willets Point Transformation.

Further, the Adams administration is using every tool available to address the city’s housing crisis. Earlier this month, Mayor Adams announced multiple new tools, including a $4 million state grant, to help New York City homeowners create accessory dwelling units (ADUs) that will not only help them to afford to remain in the communities they call home, but also to build generational wealth for families.

This year, Mayor Adams and members of the administration successfully advocated for new tools in the 2024 New York state budget that will spur the creation of urgently needed housing. These include a new tax incentive for multifamily rental construction, a tax incentive program to encourage office conversions to create more affordable units, lifting the arbitrary “floor-to-area ratio” cap that held back affordable housing production in certain high-demand areas of the city, and the ability to create a pilot program to legalize and make safe basement apartments. 

Under Mayor Adams’ leadership, the city is fulfilling its 2024 State of the City commitment to build more affordable housing, including staying ahead of schedule on advancing two dozen affordable housing projects on city-owned land this year through the “24 in ‘24” initiative, reopening the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program waitlist after being closed to general applications for nearly 15 years, and creating the Tenant Protection Cabinet to coordinate across agencies to better serve tenants. The city has also taken several steps to cut red tape and speed up the delivery of much-needed housing, including through the “Green Fast Track for Housing,” a streamlined environmental review process for qualifying small- and medium-sized housing projects, the “Office Conversion Accelerator,” an interagency effort to guide buildings that wish to convert through city bureaucracy, and other initiatives of the Building and Land Use Approval Streamlining Taskforce.

MAYOR ADAMS, COMMISSIONER MAYUGA ANNOUNCE LAWSUIT AGAINST WAY.COM FOR PUTTING CONSUMERS IN HARM’S WAY BY SUPPORTING ILLEGAL PARKING COMPANIES

Lawsuit Alleges Way.com Facilitates at Least 46 Unlicensed Parking Companies Illegally Operating on City Streets, Deceives Consumers

Way.com Faces Civil Penalties for Each Day They Aid Unlicensed Parking Companies’ Illegal Operations

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) Commissioner Vilda Vera Mayuga today announced a lawsuit against Way.com, one of the most well-known parking apps, for pointing consumers to unlicensed and dangerous parking garages and lots with the tools and platform to operate illegally and prey on New Yorkers. Way.com’s digital marketplace has aided at least 46 unlicensed parking companies in violating New York City laws, leading to consumer harm and disturbing local communities, particularly in the high-demand area surrounding John F. Kennedy International Airport. DCWP is seeking a court order to prevent Way.com from continuing to aid these companies’ unlawful operations in New York City. Way.com also faces civil penalties for each day that they continue to aid unlicensed parking companies’ illegal operations.

“With this lawsuit against Way.com, we are going to the root of a major quality of life issue affecting our residential communities and one that poses a real danger to drivers: illegal parking garages,” said Mayor Adams. “Way.com has allowed unlicensed and dangerous parking garages and lots to operate on city streets, take up residential parking, and exploit consumers through their deceptive practices. We will not tolerate any company that takes advantage of consumers or puts them in danger, and we will continue to ensure that this industry has safeguards to protect the public’s safety and the pocketbooks of hard-working New Yorkers.”

“When New Yorkers use platforms like Way.com to search for parking, they are hoping to save time. Instead, they are unwittingly booking with unlicensed garages and lots that have a track record of harming consumers,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “Our administration is laser focused on ensuring that New Yorkers are protected in their interactions with both brick and mortar and online businesses alike and holding unscrupulous actors accountable.”

“Today, we’re seeking to put the brakes on illegal parking companies’ ability to operate and harm our neighbors and local communities,” said DCWP Commissioner Mayuga. “We strive to build a culture of compliance, but despite our attempts to get them to comply with the law, Way.com continues to allow unlicensed parking businesses to flourish in our city and prey on unsuspecting consumers. Anyone hoping to use a parking garage or lot should use our license lookup tool to make sure the lot is licensed before using them.”

Today’s lawsuit argues that Way.com has assisted dozens of illegal and unlicensed parking garages and lots in violating the law. In addition to attracting consumers by promoting these lots on the app, Way.com gives these companies the appearance of legitimacy and professionalism because consumers have no indication that these businesses are unlicensed. Many of the unlicensed companies lack a physical brick-and-mortar location, like an office, and would not be visible or even identifiable to the public if Way.com did not list them on their app. Some of the unlicensed companies operate a temporary “valet” sign and park customers’ cars on residential streets without the owners’ permission, disturbing the surrounding community by reducing the parking available for local residents. Way.com also helps these illegal parking companies operate by providing them a digital marketplace, allowing consumers to complete their entire parking transaction online and keeping a portion of the payment as commission.

Worse, the suit claims that Way.com’s support of these illegal businesses has directly led to consumer harm. Not only do illegal parking garages and lots pose physical danger to consumers and their property, but consumers have submitted complaints alleging that they were charged more than initially advertised. Others have complained that an unlicensed company has damaged the vehicle they left in the company’s care or that items left in the car went missing, and in some cases, consumers have even been left stranded without access to their vehicles.

Finally, the regular lack of a physical location for many of the garages and parking lots undercuts DCWP’s ability to inspect and take enforcement action against them. In addition to the actual lots being difficult to identify on the street — making them challenging to send inspectors out to — in cases where DCWP is actually able to inspect and issue summonses, inspectors have been met with threats of physical violence. In most of these cases, the businesses ignore DCWP’s attempts to enforce the law, refusing to appear at hearings or pay fines, and simply continue operating under alternate names by creating new accounts for consumers to book on Way.com.

DCWP began receiving an increasing number of consumer complaints about unlicensed parking companies in April 2023 and quickly launched an investigation. The investigation revealed that many of the unlicensed parking companies rely on Way.com’s services to operate their illegal businesses. In June 2023, DCWP sent a cease-and-desist letter to Way.com, informing them that they were aiding illegal activity and sharing a list of unlicensed parking companies listed on the app. Unfortunately, Way.com has continually refused to come into compliance and de-list the unlicensed companies offering parking through their app.

DCWP provides licensed parking companies with a checklist of legal requirements in order to help them avoid violations. New Yorkers should use DCWP’s License Lookup Tool to make sure a business is licensed with DCWP before using them. A DCWP Parking Garage or Lot license is required to operate a business that is open to the public and charges for parking. DCWP currently licenses more than 1,600 parking lots and garages around New York City. DCWP urges consumers to report unlicensed garages and also file a complaint if they have a problem with a garage or lot at DCWP’s website or by calling 311.

MAYOR ADAMS AWARDS KEY TO THE CITY OF NEW YORK TO LEGENDARY NEW YORK WEATHERMAN, JOURNALIST, AND BEST-SELLING AUTHOR AL ROKER

Key to the City of New York Honors Roker’s Decades of Contribution to Broadcast Journalism as ‘America’s Weatherman’

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today awarded a Key to the City of New York to legendary New York weatherman, journalist, and best-selling author Al Roker for his decades of contribution to broadcast journalism. To many, Roker is “America’s weatherman,” nearly 30 years on NBC’s national morning broadcast “TODAY,” informing millions about more than just the weather, but on breaking-news, the latest trends, and iconic global events, such as the Olympics and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

“For more than 40 years, Al Roker has been a morning institution in the households of New Yorkers and Americans across the nation,” said Mayor Adams. “Al’s winning smile, infectious energy, and go-getter attitude have been how TODAY’S millions of viewers a week start their day. A child of Queens, Al worked his way up the ranks to become the defining weatherman of his generation, leaping from local broadcast news and into living rooms across the country. We have spent everything from Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parades to Olympics to generation defining breaking news together with Al. Today, we celebrate an iconic New Yorker who taught us ‘what’s happening in our neck of the woods.’ I’m honored to deliver the Key to the City to ‘America’s weatherman’ — Al Roker.”

“I never imagined a kid from Queens would be receiving a Key to the City of New York,” said Al Roker. “This is really special. I love this city and grew up here with my dad working as a New York City bus driver in Brooklyn. I’m so very blessed and lucky.”

Born and raised in Queens, Roker started his career as a weather anchor in Syracuse before beginning his time on NBC’s TODAY where he has worked for nearly 30 years. He has received numerous accolades, including 14 Emmy Awards. Roker is at the forefront of crafting television programs, social media and digital content, and entertainment that captivates audiences around the world as the CEO and founder of Al Roker Entertainment. As a bestselling author, Roker has published books with topics ranging from fatherhood and family to cookbooks and murder mysteries.

The Key to the City of New York was first awarded in 1702 by New York City Mayor Phillip French, when he offered “Freedom of the City” to Viscount Edward Cornbury, governor of New York and New Jersey. By the mid-1800s, it became customary to award the Key to the City of New York as a direct symbol of the city’s wish that a guest feel free to come and go at will. Today, the Key to the City of New York is a beloved symbol of civic recognition and gratitude reserved for individuals whose service to the public and the common good rises to the highest level of achievement.

NEW YORKERS CLAIM $345 MILLION THANKS TO MAYOR ADAMS’ PUSH FOR ENHANCED EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT, OPENS NEW CREDIT UNION TO EMPOWER LOCAL COMMUNITIES

First Year of Enhanced NYC Earned Income Tax Credit Added Additional $280 Million Into Low-Income Communities

Tax Credit Helped More Than 746,000 New Yorkers Be Able to Better Afford Essential Items Like Food, Rent, and Utilities

Mayor Adams Cuts Ribbon on New Urban Upbound Federal Credit Union Branch to Support Financial Empowerment Services for More New Yorkers

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) Commissioner Vilda Vera Mayuga today released data highlighting the success of the enhanced “NYC Earned Income Tax Credit” (EITC), which was expanded for the first time in nearly 20 years in 2022 after Mayor Adams convinced the state Legislature to bolster the social safety net and expand services for working-class families in New York City. In tax season 2023, over 746,000 New Yorkers received more money thanks to the enhancement, putting $345 million back into the pockets of New Yorkers living in some of the lowest income communities in the city, an additional $280 million from the previous tax season. Mayor Adams marked the occasion by cutting the ribbon on the second Urban Upbound Federal Credit Union branch, further supporting the rich and expanded ecosystem of the city’s free Financial Empowerment Center and NYC Free Tax Prep services overseen by DCWP.

“In New York City, working people should get a fair shot and their fair share. That is why we are building a city that works for all New Yorkers,” said Mayor Adams. “Two years ago, we successfully advocated for Albany to expand the Earned Income Tax Credit for this first-time in 20 years, and because of our efforts, last year, we put $345 million back into the pockets of working-class New Yorkers — a 432 percent increase from the tax season before that. Over 746,000 New Yorkers received the benefit, and we will continue to fight to make New York City more affordable so all families can continue to prosper in the greatest city in the world. We are also proud to offer a range of services and supports through our financial empowerment programs, including by partnering with organizations like Urban Upbound. Congratulations to them on the opening of their new space.”

“One of this administration’s key priorities is putting more money in New Yorkers’ pockets, and our enhanced New York City Earned Income Tax Credit has delivered that in spades, benefiting nearly 750,000 New Yorkers,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “We will continue to take advantage of every tool we have to make it easier for working class families to thrive in the city, from the enhanced EITC to the range of other free tax prep and financial empowerment programs that DCWP delivers with community partners like Urban Upbound.”

“Since the beginning of this administration we have been committed to delivering for working-class New Yorkers and doing all we can to make New York City a place where they can thrive,” said DCWP Commissioner Mayuga. “I am proud of the work our NYC Free Tax Prep program has done to put more money back into the pockets of New Yorkers, from saving our neighbors nearly $24 million in filing fees in tax seasons 2022 and 2023 to helping filers get millions of dollars in vital tax credits, like the enhanced NYC EITC. Thank you to Mayor Adams for prioritizing the needs of some of our communities with lowest incomes.”

“I am thrilled to stand with Mayor Adams and our partners to introduce this transformative banking resource to the Astoria community,” said Bishop Mitchell G. Taylor, CEO and co-founder, Urban Upbound. “The Urban Upbound Federal Credit Union stands as a beacon of economic empowerment and self-reliance, serving as a vital cornerstone alongside tax prep and the Earned Income Tax Credit to uplift and strengthen our community.”

NYC EITC contributed $345 million in benefits for New Yorkers across tax season 2023,
representing a 432 percent increase from tax season 2022

The average amount of money received by a filer who qualifies for the NYC EITC increased from $107 in tax season 2022 to $462 in tax season 2023 — an increase of $355 or 332 percent. The overall amount of money received due to the enhanced NYC EITC increased by 432 percent — from $64.8 million in tax season 2022 to $345 million in tax season 2023. Tax seasons 2022 and 2023 covered tax years 2021 and 2022, respectively.

Since the start of the Adams administration through December 2023, DCWP’s NYC Free Tax Prep program helped New Yorkers file more than 156,000 tax returns for free, saving them nearly $24 million in tax preparation fees. And this past tax season, more than 140 in-person sites provided free tax preparation services across the five boroughs. NYC Free Tax Prep providers also offered drop-off services and virtual tax preparation services. Last fall, DCWP also launched NYC Free Tax Prep for self-employed filers, offering specialized services tailored to gig workers, freelancers, and small business owners who often face barriers to filing taxes and managing financial recordkeeping.

Mayor Adams today marked these achievements by joining Urban Upbound at the grand opening of its second federal credit union branch located in Astoria, Queens. The credit union offers affordable financial services, including access to capital, asset-building vehicles, and ownership stakes to its members. These services complement Urban Upbound’s existing Financial Empowerment Center and NYC Free Tax Prep services, overseen by DCWP, including through free financial counseling to help New Yorkers improve their financial health with one-on-one support on banking, credit, debt, and savings topics, as well as free tax preparation services to help New Yorkers — including self-employed filers and small business owners — claim valuable tax credits and avoid costly tax prep fees.

Thanks to the Adams administration’s successful advocacy in Albany, the Fiscal Year 2023 adopted state budget increased the state and city match to the federal EITC for the first time in nearly 20 years. After the city committed $250 million annually to the NYC EITC, it received a one-time state payment of $100 million. The NYC EITC increased from a 5 percent match of the federal EITC levels to 10 to 30 percent depending on the filers’ income. Under the city’s expansion of this tax credit in tax season 2023, a single parent with one child and an annual income of $14,750 or less saw their benefit rise from $187 to $933 — a 400 percent increase. A married couple with two children and an annual income of $25,000 saw their New York City benefit grow from $308 to $925 under the city payment — a 200 percent increase. In its first year, the expansion of the NYC EITC helped put an additional $280 million back into the pockets of more than 746,000 New Yorkers so they could better afford essential items like food, rent, and utilities.

“I was proud to champion the historic Earned Income Tax Credit expansion in Albany, which more than quadrupled the average family’s credit,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “We put $345 million in the pockets of almost a million working-class New Yorkers, enabling them to put food on the table, secure a roof over their heads, and stand on their own two feet. Today, we continue to bring economic empowerment and financial literacy to New Yorkers with the opening of the second Urban Upbound credit union right here in my home borough of Queens.”

“Community empowerment comes in many forms, with one of the most impactful being financial sustainability. Urban Upbound offers just that through its federal credit union services, and I couldn’t be more excited to welcome its second such branch to Western Queens,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “For the families of Western Queens who have historically been marginalized and disinvested in, this is a monumental step forward in terms of financial literacy, equity and empowerment. Congratulations to my friend Bishop Mitchell Taylor and the entire team at Urban Upbound on this historic day. I look forward to working with all our city and community partners as we put more families on a more stable financial footing.”

“During my tenure as commissioner of DCWP, we launched an unprecedented campaign for the EITC initiative, which returned over $260 million to hardworking New Yorkers,” said New York City Councilmember Julie Menin. “The enhanced EITC has returned even more taxpayer dollars and directly addresses economic inequality in our city. I appreciate that Mayor Adams’ administration is prioritizing this tax credit, which has lifted up hundreds of thousands of hardworking families.”

MAYOR ADAMS, OLR COMMISSIONER CAMPION ANNOUNCE TENTATIVE CONTRACT AGREEMENT WITH UNITED PROBATION OFFICERS ASSOCIATION FOR OVER 600 MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES

Agreement Provides Substantial Wage Increases to Members, Secures Fair Deal for NYC Taxpayers, Improves Recruitment and Retention

Agreement Conforms to Pattern Established With DC 37 and Other City Unions

Administration Has Now Settled Contracts with Unions Representing Nearly 97 Percent of Municipal Employees

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and Office of Labor Relations (OLR) Commissioner Renee Campion today announced a tentative five-and-a-half-year contract agreement with the United Probation Officers’ Association (UPOA). This agreement will cover approximately 600 probation officers who work with individuals on probation to help provide them with opportunities to forge new pathways so that they can move out and stay out of the justice system.

The tentative agreement is retroactive — beginning on November 28, 2020 — and expires on June 12, 2026. It conforms to the pattern established by dozens of other unions over the last 18 months. The agreement includes wage increases of 3 percent for each of the first four years of the contract and 3.25 percent in the fifth year. The agreement also includes a lump sum ratification bonus of between $3,600 and $5,080, depending on the employee’s title, for all UPOA members who are in active payroll status on the date of ratification.

“Protecting public safety and making our city more affordable means investing in hard-working New Yorkers like our probation officers, who work tirelessly to keep our city safe by helping justice-involved people get back on — and stay on — the right path,” said Mayor Adams. “We’re proud to have secured well-earned and long-overdue wage increases for hundreds of thousands of dedicated public servants while ensuring that our labor contracts are fair deals for taxpayers as well. With the dozens of contracts we have negotiated, we are creating a fairer and more equitable city, delivering on our vision for a more affordable and livable city, and ensuring that New York City is not only the greatest city in the world to live, but also one of the greatest places to work.”

“New York City’s hardworking public servants, like our probation workers, deserve fair contracts, and I’m proud to be a part of an administration that is delivering for them,” said City Hall Chief Counsel Lisa Zornberg. “My thanks to Mayor Adams, Commissioner Campion, and UPOA President Dalvanie Powell for coming to this agreement, which secures a good deal for these vital public safety workers and a fair deal for New York City taxpayers.”

“Our dedicated men and women — the majority women of color — at the New York City Department of Probation work tirelessly to help individuals find the path to a better life, moving and staying out of the justice system,” said New York City Department of Probation Commissioner Juanita N. Holmes. “I thank Mayor Eric Adams, Deputy Mayor Philip Banks, City Hall Chief Counsel Lisa Zornberg, OLR Commissioner Renee Campion, and UPOA President Dalvanie Powell for working on this agreement. This contract exemplifies the collaborative efforts between Mayor Adams and Deputy Mayor Banks in advancing their unified vision of increased public safety in New York City and recognizes the invaluable work our officers do every day, from helping our clients rebuild their lives to ensuring the safety of our communities. By crafting personalized interventions and offering tailored educational and employment opportunities, our probation officers transform lives and play a crucial role in keeping our fellow New Yorkers safe. Probation officers are on the frontlines of justice, crafting personalized interventions, providing essential support, and fostering positive change; this new contract helps recognize them for their hard work to keep New York City safe.”

“I am extremely happy that the parties have reached this agreement, which provides significant wage increases for our hardworking and dedicated probation workers, who work tirelessly each day to assist individuals on probation and to help keep New York safe,” said OLR Commissioner Campion. “I would like to personally thank UPOA President Dalvanie Powell for her leadership and professionalism during these negotiations.”

“We are proud to have reached a tentative agreement on what we believe is a fair contract for our members,” said Dalvanie K. Powell, president, UPOA. “Probation is the heartbeat of our criminal justice system, working tirelessly to keep our communities safe while giving individuals under our supervision a second chance. We negotiated this contract with a clear focus on addressing the historic pay disparities that our members — who are mostly women and people of color — have faced, as well as improving working conditions and benefits. Our Executive Board approved this contract today and we will be meeting with our members to discuss the terms over the next week before this is put to a vote of our full membership. Our union remains committed to advocating for our members and ensuring that they are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. We look forward to continuing to build on this agreement and advancing the interests of New York City’s probation officers.”

The tentative agreement — which must be ratified by the UPOA membership — also creates a new 11-year step pay plan for probation officers and supervisors, replacing the current salary ranges. Effective November 28, 2024, probation officers’ starting salaries will be $61,386 and the top pay will be $81,000. Supervising probation officers’ starting salaries will be $86,500 and the top pay will be $95,100. Employees who would earn above these pay rates with the pattern wage increases will be kept whole.

The total cost of the tentative agreement, through Fiscal Year 2028, will be approximately $52 million, which is fully funded in the financial plan.

UPOA members will receive the following compounded wage increases:

May 28, 2021: 3.00 percent
April 2, 2022: 3.00 percent
November 28, 2022: 3.00 percent
November 28, 2023: 3.00 percent
November 28, 2024: 3.25 percent
In the last 18 months, Mayor Adams has successfully negotiated contracts with unions representing nearly 97 percent of the city’s workforce. These agreements with District Council 37, Communications Workers of America Local 1180, the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association, the Uniformed Sanitation Workers’ Union Local 831, the United Federation of Teachers, the Police Benevolent Association, the Uniformed Officers Coalition, the Council of School Supervisors and Administrators, Teamsters Local 237, and dozens of other unions, including the agreement with UPOA, have all included wage increases, including retroactive wage increases for employees that had not received a raise in years. Additionally, many of these contracts included dedicated funding to address retention and recruitment challenges and other important benefits.

MAYOR ADAMS CELEBRATES CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL OF PLAN TO CREATE APPROXIMATELY 7,000 NEW HOMES AND 10,000 PERMANENT JOBS IN BRONX METRO-NORTH STATION AREA NEIGHBORHOOD

Plan Will Also Deliver Improved Public Space and Enhanced Transit Access to the Bronx

Announcement Comes as Adams Administration Addresses Housing Crisis with “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity” Proposal to Produce as Many as 108,850 New Homes Over Next 15 Years

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of City Planning (DCP) Director and City Planning Commission (CPC) Chair Dan Garodnick today celebrated the New York City Council’s approval of the Bronx Metro-North Station Area Plan, the first DCP-led neighborhood plan certified and approved under the Adams administration. Designed to accompany four new Metro-North stations coming to Parkchester/Van Nest, Morris Park, Hunts Point, and Co-op City in 2027, the plan is expected to create approximately 7,000 homes, including permanently income-restricted affordable housing, and 10,000 permanent jobs, along with improved public spaces and enhanced access to mass transit. Today’s announcement comes as the Adams administration aims to address the housing crisis with the passage of its “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity” proposal, which aims to produce as many as 108,850 new homes over 15 years.

“Today, the Bronx bought a ticket to the future, creating thousands of new jobs and affordable homes while embracing mass transit, all by saying ‘yes,’” said Mayor Adams. “The Bronx is saying ‘yes’ to more housing in our backyards, communities, and neighborhoods, and serving as a model to the rest of our city on how to lead from the front. With our administration’s neighborhoods plans and our ‘City of Yes’ proposal, we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build our way out of this housing shortage and affordability crisis. I am calling on our partners in the City Council to join us in this fight and deliver on the promise that working-class families are asking us to do: build more and make this city more affordable.”

“Today marks a significant milestone for our city as we celebrate the passage of the Bronx Metro-North Area plan, bringing millions in new funding, approximately 7,000 homes — including permanent affordable housing — and 10,000 new jobs to the Boogie Down Bronx,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “Our administration was laser focused on delivering a plan that ensures Bronxites will see the most benefit from the coming stations. I thank the City Council for their leadership, particularly Councilmembers Farias, Marmarato, Riley, and Salamanca, in bringing this vision to life. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership with Speaker Adams and the entire City Council to advance the ‘City of Yes’ proposal and build the desperately needed housing that New Yorkers deserve across the five boroughs.”

“We hear time and again: New Yorkers, no matter what borough they’re in, want walkable, connected communities, with access to good jobs and plentiful public space,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations and Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Board Member Meera Joshi. “The Bronx Metro North Neighborhood Plan will deliver exactly that — vibrant, green districts for retail and housing around regional transit hubs that will better connect Bronxites to their local communities and to the city as a whole. This is what we mean when we say a five-borough administration. Deep thanks to all who have played and will continue to play a part.”

“In connection with four new Metro-North Stations, we are now on track to deliver much-needed new homes, jobs, and infrastructure improvements to the East Bronx; improve the quality of life for residents; and put a real dent in our citywide housing crisis,” said DCP Director and CPC Chair Garodnick. “Thank you to the City Council for supporting this plan to create a more connected and vibrant Bronx.”

“Public transportation is the connective tissue of our city and we applaud the City Council for approving the Bronx Metro North Station Plan, which will create economic opportunity and approximately 7,000 new homes — a key building block of the larger ‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity’ initiative to help make homes within reach for working-class New Yorkers,” said New York City Mayor’s Office of Talent and Workforce Development Executive Director Abby Jo Sigal. “The 10,000 new jobs resulting from this announcement, coupled with the city’s commitment to apprenticeship, building youth career pathways, and implementing the nation’s largest community hiring program, will also help drive economic mobility for New York families and contribute to the city’s shared prosperity.”

“Delivering housing is one of this administration’s most crucial tasks, and it’s our duty to ensure that all housing is supported by functional infrastructure and a thriving public realm,” said New York City Chief Infrastructure Officer Alison N. Landry. “The Bronx Metro North Neighborhood Plan delivers on this duty with meaningful capital improvements across East Bronx communities. Thanks to years of partnership across city agencies, elected officials, and the community, these comprehensive investments reflect the accessible, safe, and resilient neighborhood planning that all New Yorkers deserve.”

“The successful passage of the Bronx Metro-North Station Area Plan is a major step in the right direction,” said New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) Commissioner Adolfo Carrion, Jr. “New York City is coming together to embrace bold, smart, and environmentally-sound ideas to build more affordable housing in every neighborhood. Approximately 7,000 new homes will be lifechanging for New York families while opening a new chapter in a historically neglected strip of our city.”

“The City Council’s approval of the Bronx Metro-North Station Area Plan is the culmination of over six years of collaboration between the city’s planning and infrastructure agencies, local community members and elected officials, our partners at the MTA, and many more,” said New York City Executive Director for Housing Leila Bozorg. “This approval marks a pivotal shift towards a future with new housing opportunities and greater transportation access to and from important job centers. The investments that are unlocked through this neighborhood plan — which include permanently affordable homes, new jobs, improved public and open space, and access to mass transit — will benefit Bronx residents and New Yorkers for generations to come.”

“Confronting our city’s housing and affordability crisis requires creating more homes for New Yorkers,” said New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams. “The opening of new Metro-North stations in the East Bronx presents a unique opportunity to develop new housing and homeownership opportunities, while delivering critical infrastructure investments that benefit surrounding neighborhoods for generations. This historic neighborhood rezoning, coupled with nearly $500 million for local infrastructure improvements that the City Council secured, will have a lasting positive impact for the residents of the Bronx and our entire city. I thank Majority Leader Amanda Farías, Land Use Chair Rafael Salamanca, Zoning and Franchises Chair Kevin Riley, and Councilmember Kristy Marmorato for their leadership to get this major rezoning plan across the finish line, and Mayor Adams‘ administration for its partnership.”

“As long-term Bronxites, my colleagues and I have consistently demonstrated our deep commitment to the neighborhoods that shaped us by securing transformative investments,” said New York City Council Majority Leader Amanda Farias. “I’m proud to have championed this development project, securing nearly $200 million in infrastructure upgrades for District 18. These achievements were hard won through rigorous negotiations and extensive community outreach—including in-person and virtual events in Parkchester—ensuring that every voice was heard, and every concern addressed. Our shared vision for a more equitable Bronx drove us to overcome significant challenges, resulting in key milestones in parking, school investments, cultural inclusion, and more. Our recent modifications prioritize building a brighter, more inclusive future for the Bronx, ensuring that historically underserved communities receive the attention and resources they deserve. I eagerly anticipate seeing the administration carry out this funding in the coming years, bringing lasting positive impacts to our neighborhoods.”

“I am very grateful to my City Council colleagues for approving the Bronx Metro-North Station Area Plan today,” said New York City Councilmember Rafael Salamanca, Jr, chair, Committee on Land Use. “Not only will the creation of four new Metro-North stations at Hunts Point, Morris Park, Parkchester/Van Nest, and Co-op City dramatically improve transportation from the South Bronx to Manhattan, we will also see an influx of new professional and educational opportunities open up for our constituents. With our city experiencing a heightened housing crisis, we will now also receive 7000 new units of desperately needed housing built in our borough. I look forward to seeing how greatly my borough will transform and grow upon the Bronx Metro-North Plan’s completion.”

“Today marks a significant milestone for the Bronx, as we move forward with a plan that will not only strengthen our transportation infrastructure, but also create much-needed housing and permanent jobs for our communities,” said New York City Councilmember Kevin C. Riley, chair, Subcommittee on Zoning and Franchises. “The Bronx Metro-North Station Area Plan exemplifies what can be achieved when the City Council and the Adams administration work in partnership. Securing more than 7,000 homes, 10,000 jobs and investments in improving neighborhood infrastructure, this comprehensive plan creates extended pathways for sustainable growth citywide. I’m proud to have collaborated to ensure that the Co-op City community and surrounding neighborhoods receive the investments they deserve. This initiative exemplifies the power of forward-thinking planning that benefits the entire city, and I am honored to work alongside my colleagues to advance bold, transformative change for the Bronx.”

“The approval of the Bronx Metro-North Station Area Plan represents a significant step towards smart development in District 13,” said New York City Councilmember Kristy Marmorato. “This rezoning — the largest we’ve seen in a decade — is a testament to our community’s dedication to growth that respects and preserves our neighborhood’s unique character. By working closely with residents and local stakeholders, we have crafted a plan that truly considers the district’s makeup and desires. Through this collaborative process, we’ve secured meaningful modifications that ensure our parking mandates, protect our lower-density communities, and bring over $300 million in essential capital investments. These investments will enhance public safety, improve our parks and playgrounds, upgrade our streets, and provide critical flood protection. This plan not only meets our current needs, but also establishes a foundation for a stronger and resilient community for generations to come to District 13.”

“I want to thank the City Council for approving the Bronx Metro-North Station Area Study rezoning proposal, paving the way for the development of 7,000 new homes in our borough,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson. “This is a significant step forward in addressing our housing shortage and creating much-needed new homeownership opportunities. Alongside this crucial development, we are also making substantial investments in our parks, schools, and infrastructure to ensure that our community’s growth is sustainable and beneficial for all. These upgrades will help prevent flooding and enhance the quality of life for our residents. This comprehensive approach to development reflects our shared commitment to building a stronger, more resilient Bronx.”

“It is great to see the city recognizing the value of MTA investments for transit-oriented development,” said MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber. “We’d like to talk to the city about using value capture strategies to finance more projects like this one in the MTA’s 2025-2029 Capital Plan.”

The Bronx Metro-North Station Area Plan will help spur the creation of approximately 7,000 new homes, including 1,700 permanently income-restricted homes through Mandatory Inclusionary Housing. The plan does this by allowing residential uses in sections of Parkchester/Van Nest currently designated solely for commercial and manufacturing uses, and expanding the amount of housing allowed in residential districts of both Parkchester/Van Nest and Morris Park. To further the Bronx’s ongoing economic growth, the plan will lead to the creation of 10,000 new jobs in Parkchester/Van Nest and Morris Park by strengthening commercial corridors and supporting the growth of prominent local institutions and job centers, including Calvary Hospital, Hutchinson Metro Center, Jacobi Medical Center, and Montefiore Hospital. With a total of 37,000 jobs, Morris Park and Hunts Point are already two of the 10 largest job centers in New York City today, and this plan will help ensure that they continue to serve as key economic engines into the future.

The Bronx Metro-North Area Plan complements these new homes and jobs with hundreds of millions of dollars of investments in public amenities and infrastructure across the study area. Together, these investments will significantly enhance public space, transportation access, public safety, and environmental resiliency for Bronx residents. These investments include:

Enhanced pedestrian safety, transportation access, and traffic circulation with intersection and streetscape improvements near the Morris Park and Parkchester/Van Nest stations, as well as a new bus turnaround near the Co-op City Station at Erskine Place;

A lighting study to improve access to the Hunts Point Avenue station;

A new public plaza at the Morris Park station, and pedestrian crossing improvements along Eastchester Road;

Improvements to public parks and open spaces, including renovation and reconstruction of the following parks and playgrounds: Castle Hill Playground, Bufano Park, Pelham Bay Park Ballfields #4 and #5, Taylor Playground, Virginia Playground, Loreto Playground, and Brady Playground;

School facility upgrades at PS 102, PS 106, Linden Tree, Archer Elementary, PS 12, MS 127, and PS 138 and;

Drainage infrastructure upgrades to mitigate flooding on flood-prone streets and to increase stormwater capture capacity.

Today’s approval follows over six years of public collaboration on the Bronx Metro-North Station Area Plan, including in-person and virtual workshops, surveys, weekly “office hours” with DCP staff, small-group meetings, and more. The city worked closely with local elected officials; nearly two dozen community stakeholders, such as neighborhood organizations, educational institutions, and medical hubs; and state and federal government agencies to craft the final plan.

The Adams administration is in the middle of public review for City of Yes for Housing Opportunity, the most pro-housing zoning proposal in New York City’s history. In addition to the City of Yes and Bronx Metro-North plan, DCP is advancing several robust plans that, if adopted, would deliver more than 50,000 units over the next 15 years in Central Brooklyn, Midtown South in Manhattan, and Long Island City and Jamaica in Queens.

Since the start of his administration, Mayor Adams has made record investments towards creating and preserving affordable housing. Last month, Mayor Adams announced back-to-back record breaking years in both creating and connecting New Yorkers to affordable housing. In June, the Adams administration delivered an on-time, balanced, and fiscally-responsible $112.4 billion Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Adopted Budget that invests $2 billion in capital funds across FY25 and FY26 to HPD and the New York City Housing Authority’s capital budgets. In total, the Adams administration has committed a record $26 billion in housing capital in the current 10-year plan as the city faces a generational housing crisis. In June, Mayor Adams and others announced a landmark $500 million investment from the Battery Park City Authority’s Joint Purpose Fund to build and maintain affordable housing. This spring, thanks to Mayor Adams’ vision and leadership, the city celebrated the largest 100 percent affordable housing project in 40 years with the Willets Point Transformation.

Additionally, the Adams administration is using every tool available to address the city’s housing crisis. Earlier this year, Mayor Adams and members of his administration successfully advocated for new tools in the 2024 New York state budget that will spur the creation of urgently-needed housing. These tools include a new tax incentive for multi-family rental construction, a tax incentive program to encourage office conversions to create more affordable units, lifting the arbitrary “floor-to-area ratio” cap that held back affordable housing production in certain high-demand areas of the city, and the ability to create a pilot program to legalize and make safe basement apartments.

MAYOR ADAMS RELEASES NEW STUDY FINDING SIDEWALK SHEDS AND SCAFFOLDING COST MANHATTAN BUSINESSES BETWEEN NEARLY $4,000 AND $9,500 EACH MONTH

Study Shows Major Reduction in Sales at Businesses Under Sheds

Longer Sheds Have Largest Impact on Sales; Restaurants, Bars Hit Hardest

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today released a new study — commissioned by New York City and conducted in cooperation with Mastercard — exploring how sidewalk sheds and scaffolding negatively impact Manhattan businesses. Evaluating aggregated and anonymized spending averages from Mastercard, the study shows that cardholders spend between $3,900 and $9,500 less each month at businesses located in buildings with sidewalk sheds. Restaurants and bars are most impacted, reporting a 3.5 percent to 9.7 percent decrease in weekly transactions in the six months following shed construction.

Last year, the Adams administration released its “Get Sheds Down” plan, a wide-ranging series of nine initiatives aimed at compelling building owners to make needed repairs quickly so unsightly sidewalk sheds and scaffolding do not languish in place for years, reducing the number of unnecessary long-standing sidewalk sheds in New York City and improving the design of necessary sheds and scaffolding so they’re no longer a blight to the community.

“Too many businesses throughout New York City have been shrouded by hundreds of miles of sidewalk sheds and scaffolding, some of which have been up for decades,” said Mayor Adams. “Those sheds may have gone up to keep people safe, but they’re still up because it’s cheaper for building owners to leave them up than to fix their buildings. That’s bad for public safety, bad for our city, and, as this study shows us, bad for business, too. We’ve already taken 173 miles of sheds down in the past year, and the package of bills we’re working on with the City Council will allow us to flip the script so repairs get finished, sheds come down, and storefronts can shine again.”

“If left up too long, scaffolding is dank, dark, and, now for the first time, we know in a dollars-and-cents way, depressing for businesses’ bottom lines,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “Scaffolding is critical for safety, but when it is used instead as a Band-Aid, it becomes enemy number one for a city otherwise growing more vibrant by the day. With Mayor Adams’ ‘Get Sheds Down’ plan, we are attacking longstanding scaffolding on all fronts: enforcement, design, and refining our building inspection cycle.”

“New York City has done remarkable work recovering from COVID-19, but full recovery requires elimination of unnecessary burdens to businesses, such as sidewalk sheds that hamper sales at brick-and-mortar stores and make it harder for landlords to tenant their spaces,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “We look forward to continuing our tireless work supporting small businesses while improving the public realm.”

“I think most New Yorkers intuitively knew that a gloomy sidewalk shed has a negative impact on storefront businesses, but, thanks to this study, we now have data to back that up, in plain dollars and cents,” said New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) Commissioner Jimmy Oddo. “Sidewalk sheds are an important safety tool to protect the public from unsafe building conditions, but when building owners leave them up for years on end while repairs languish, it robs New Yorkers of vibrant streetscapes and takes money out of the pockets of small business owners. This study makes it clear that we need stronger enforcement tools in place to compel owners to get their building repairs done faster, so that these sheds stay up only as long as necessary and don’t needlessly depress our commercial corridors. The department is partnering with the City Council to advance legislation that would tighten regulations on sheds, which, when combined with our ongoing efforts to reimagine pedestrian protection design, will help not just improve the look of our city, but will be a boon to the city’s economic vitality.”

“Mayor Adams said it best while establishing Executive Order 2: small businesses are critical to the city’s economy,” said New York City Department of Small Business Services Acting Commissioner Dynishal Gross. “‘Get Sheds Down’ balances public safety and small business success by incentivizing less obstructive building safety measures and requiring prompt building repairs. The initiative will free New York City storefronts and sidewalks from the confines of yearslong scaffolding and ensure a more vibrant public realm for generations to come.”

“This study quantifies what all New Yorkers know intuitively: sidewalk sheds kept up for too long negatively impacts storefronts under their shadow,” said Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu. “When we ‘Get Sheds Down’ faster, we not only improve the public realm, but help businesses with their bottom line. I look forward to working with the City Council and DOB to pass a package of bills that will do just that.”

“Supporting the ‘Get Sheds Down’ plan is vital for nightlife and hospitality businesses across New York City,” said New York City Office of Nightlife Executive Director Jeffrey Garcia. “Scaffolding that remains up unnecessarily for extended periods of time results in a significant decrease in profits, especially for bars and restaurants. It can also prohibit them from participating in the city’s new ‘Dining Out NYC’ program, which allows for sidewalk and roadway seating. By addressing this issue, we can help these businesses thrive, enhance the beauty and safety of our streets, and contribute to a more vibrant city for everyone.”

“The data shows what New Yorkers already know firsthand — long-standing sidewalk sheds negatively impact the economy and livability of this city,” said “New” New York Executive Director B.J. Jones. “That’s why it is so important to create better designs and more robust enforcement tools to get facades repaired, sheds down, and sidewalks returned to our pedestrians and small businesses.”

The Adams administration is partnering with the City Council on proposals that would allow for a wider variety of colors for sidewalk sheds and scaffolding, increase lighting requirements for sheds, reduce the duration of sidewalk shed permits, and introduce new penalties if building repairs are not performed in a timely manner.

Earlier this summer, DOB launched a comprehensive review of the city’s Façade Inspection and Safety Program, colloquially known as “Local Law 11” inspections, in partnership with international engineering consulting firm Thornton Tomasetti. Local Law 11 requires building owners to hire private inspectors to perform façade maintenance inspections, with a rigid one-size-fits-all set of regulations for all buildings over six stories tall. While the current regulations compel owners to inspect and mitigate any found buildings hazard with sheds or other protection, it doesn’t do enough to encourage repairs — resulting in sheds standing in place for years with no progress on the repairs. Recommendations from the administration will consider regulatory changes that could reduce sidewalk sheds and scaffolding that are not protecting the public.

This study of Local Law 11 is a part of the administration’s Get Sheds Down plan. As part of the multifaceted plan, the city is working with design firms to reimagine pedestrian safety infrastructure expected to be delivered in 2025, released technical guidance to help the industry understand when they can use safety netting in place of sidewalk sheds, launched a permanent program allowing art on sidewalk sheds, stepped up criminal court cases against the worst offenders who refuse to make needed building repairs, and increased DOB oversight over expired sidewalk shed permits.

Since Mayor Adams launched the Get Sheds Down plan, 173 miles of existing sidewalk sheds have come down from New York City sidewalks. Critically, since the plan was announced, the city has removed 259 long-standing sheds (sheds that have been up for over five years) from the streets, and also removed the longest-standing permitted shed in the city, which had been an eyesore in Harlem for over 21 years.

“The sidewalks of our city should be safe, clean, and welcoming,” said New York State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal. “Unfortunately, scaffolding and sidewalk sheds have made some of our sidewalks places New Yorkers choose to steer clear of and that is now affecting our small businesses. The study released today shows that businesses in Manhattan with sidewalk sheds lose somewhere between $4000 and $9500 every single month, with restaurants and bars suffering the greatest losses. It’s clear that it’s time to do as Mayor Adams says and ‘Get Sheds Down’ so that our pedestrians and small businesses can enjoy all that our city has to offer without unsightly obstacles in their way.”

“New York City is now home to more than 9,000 sidewalk sheds collectively stretching over 400 miles — greater than the length of the Grand Canyon,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “We have long known that unsightly sheds hurt businesses, and our historic study reveals the exact price tag: up to $9,500 less spending per month by cardholders, and a 9.7 percent decrease in bar and restaurant spending. For small businesses, many immigrant-owned, that revenue loss could be the difference between staying open or closing for good. This lays clear the imperative to implement our ‘Get Sheds Down’ plan to reimagine shed design and speed up repairs without compromising safety. Making sheds aesthetically pleasing and short-lived will unlock the beauty of our blocks while removing spots for bad apples to congregate. That translates to increased foot traffic, uplifting street-level businesses and generating millions in economic activity.”

“Sidewalk sheds that are up for long periods of time don’t just negatively impact neighborhood quality of life — there’s also a significant financial consequence,” said Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine. “These numbers show that sheds that linger hurt our local economy and small businesses. We need to do better to ensure that facade repairs are done quickly. Small businesses can’t afford to keep losing thousands of dollars each month.”

“For our small businesses, getting buried underneath sidewalk sheds for years can mean they lose out on local foot traffic and thousands of dollars in business,” said New York City Councilmember Keith Powers. “The local businesses that make our neighborhoods great operate on razor-thin margins, and a decrease in business for even a few months can be make-or-break for their livelihoods. I’m proud to be leading the charge in the Council on scaffolding reform and to partner with the administration to get sheds down and support our storefronts.”

“Sidewalk sheds and scaffolding are meant to keep New Yorkers safe, but too often sheds are left in place longer than they need to be, creating quality of life, public safety, and economic concerns,” said New York City Councilmember Carlina Rivera. “By changing rules to expedite repairs and giving artists the opportunity to display works on sidewalk sheds, City Council and the mayoral administration are working together to ‘Get Sheds Down’ and reduce their negative impact on neighborhoods.”

“We are delighted to announce progress on removal of almost half the linear feet of sidewalk sheds in our district, thanks in part to work by the mayor and his staff on this issue,” said Dan Biederman, president, 34^th Street Partnership.”

MAYOR ADAMS, COMMISSIONER MAYUGA ANNOUNCE LAWSUIT AGAINST NATIONAL FLOORS DIRECT OVER DECEPTIVE BUSINESS PRACTICES

Following Investigation, Lawsuit Seeks Consumer Restitution, Civil Penalties, and Suspension or Revocation of National Floors Direct’s Home Improvement Contractor License

Lawsuit Alleges National Floors Direct Committed Nearly 2,500 Counts of Violations of Consumer Protection Laws After Receiving Frequent Complaints Detailing Regular Predatory and Deceptive Practices

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) Commissioner Vilda Vera Mayuga today announced a lawsuit against National Floors Direct, a nationwide company that sells and installs flooring, alleging nearly 2,500 counts of violations of the city’s consumer protection laws. The lawsuit alleges that National Floors Direct preys on consumers by targeting them with false advertisements, routinely misleading them about when service will begin, providing poor quality work, and refusing to offer refunds and cancellations in violation of the law. DCWP is seeking consumer restitution, civil penalties, and the suspension or revocation of National Floors Direct’s Home Improvement Contractor license. DCWP encourages consumers who were deceived or harmed by the company to file a consumer complaint online.

“Renovating a home is one of the biggest investments a New Yorker will ever make, and that’s why consumers deserve to do business with fair and honest home improvement companies that don’t stiff their customers of thousands of dollars and leave them with shoddy work,” said Mayor Adams. “New York City has some of the strictest consumer protection laws in the nation, and we are going to enforce those laws against operators that try to take advantage of working-class New Yorkers. With this lawsuit, we are putting National Floors Direct and all others who think they are going to take advantage of New York’s consumers on notice: we are watching, and we will take action to protect consumers and recoup their money.”

“As we continue to build a more equitable economic future for our city, we must uplift New Yorkers and protect their essential consumer rights,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “The alleged conduct in this suit is unacceptable, and our administration’s action to hold them accountable is yet another example of our unwavering commitment to working-class New Yorkers and keeping money in their pockets.”

“National Floors Direct has truly set the floor for shoddy craftsmanship and their deceptive practices have left dozens of New Yorkers out of thousands of dollars because the company damaged their homes or simply refused to provide services,” said DCWP Commissioner Mayuga. “We are committed to protecting consumers and holding predatory companies accountable for violating the rights of our neighbors. If you have been harmed by National Floors Direct’s exploitative business practices, I urge you to reach out and file a complaint with us as soon as possible.”

National Floors Direct has regularly been one of the most complained about home improvement contractors in New York City over the last five years. Since 2019, DCWP has received 30 consumer complains about the company’s detailing predatory and deceptive practices, leading to the investigation.

The lawsuit, filed today, argues that National Floors Direct falsely advertises “free next day flooring installations” only to routinely delay and reschedule appointments multiple times, and then has refused to provide refunds when consumers try to cancel their contract due to the delays, leaving consumers frustrated and without the products or services they paid for. Worse, the company regularly misrepresents the work needed to fulfill contracts, like removing the existing flooring, adding on additional costs for the consumer to simply get what they thought they had already purchased. Consumers are left in the terrible position of either losing the money they have already paid or having to pay hundreds of dollars more than agreed upon to complete the installation. The suit highlights two consumers who were forced to pay nearly $1,000 in additional costs because National Floors Direct failed to disclose additional costs at the time of contract.

The lawsuit goes on to note that when National Floors Direct does fulfil a contract, the work is of such poor quality that consumers regularly pay additional costs just to repair the damage done to their homes. One consumer had to sew together the carpet she paid National Floors Direct to install because it began unraveling shortly after installation. Another had to replace the flooring National Floors Direct installed after just six months because portions were peeling off and uneven. National Floors Direct has refused to provide these consumers with refunds or fix their situation.

National Floors Direct routinely fails to disclose conditions or limitations on its “free” services and fails to disclose additional installation charges in its advertisements. The company offers discounts on basic installations, only to later inform consumers that removing existing flooring is not covered in a basic installation, adding additional costs to consumers.

Finally, the lawsuit claims that National Floors Direct interferes with and violates consumers’ rights to cancel contracts within the legally permitted three-day cancellation period. One consumer was told they were not allowed to cancel after just 24 hours and lost a $5,000 deposit. Another consumer was unable to reach anyone at National Floors Direct during the three-day period. The company illegally pocketed the money that these consumers had every right to get refunded.

In New York City, individuals and businesses must have a DCWP-issued Home Improvement Contractor license to do construction, repair, remodeling or other home improvement work that costs more than $200 to any residential building. The license does not cover new home construction, plumbing, or purely electrical work. New Yorkers should use DCWP’s License Lookup Tool to make sure a business is licensed with DCWP before entering into a contract with them. See DCWP’s Quick Tips When Hiring a Home Improvement Contractor for more information.

DCWP provides licensed home improvement contractors with a checklist (available in multiple languages) of legal requirements in order to help them avoid violations. In May, DCWP held a Home Improvement Contractor DCWP 101 educational webinar to help applicants and current licensees navigate the Home Improvement Contractor licensing process and understand some of the laws and rules contractors must comply with in New York City. DCWP urges consumers who believe that their contractor failed to perform work as agreed to, who owe them money, or who engaged in unlicensed activity to file a complaint at DCWP’s website or by calling 311.

MAYOR ADAMS, NORMAN SIEGEL CELEBRATE MASSIVE INCREASE IN PERCENTAGE OF HOMELESS NEW YORKERS BEING CONNECTED TO HOUSING THROUGH STREET HOMELESS ADVOCACY PROJECT

In Second Year, Volunteer Outreach Initiative Helped Nearly 50 Percent of Individuals Experiencing Homelessness Connect to Referral or Placement with Supportive Programs

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and veteran civil rights advocate and former executive director of the New York Civil Liberties Union Norman Siegel today celebrated major milestones for the Street Homelessness Advocacy Project (SHAP) as the program marks two years since it began operating. SHAP is a volunteer outreach initiative that aims to build relationships and provide direct support to those experiencing homelessness. SHAP’s primary purpose is to train volunteers, including those with lived experience, to advocate for and offer services to unhoused New Yorkers. Between year one and year two of the program, the SHAP team increased the percentage of homeless New Yorkers they are assisting in moving voluntarily off the streets and into some form of supportive programing from an approximate 33 percent success rate to almost 50 percent. Those interested in volunteering with SHAP should visit the SHAP website or email shapnewyorkcity@gmail.com.

“Thanks to the Street Homelessness Advocacy Project, everyday New Yorkers are answering the call to volunteer and lend a helping hand to their neighbors in need, and their good work is paying off, with nearly 50 percent of homeless individuals connecting with SHAP choosing to voluntarily come off our streets,” said Mayor Adams. “Solving our homelessness crisis requires each and every one of us to follow in the footsteps of SHAP volunteers by treating those experiencing homelessness with dignity and humanity. Thank you to all the volunteers, partner organizations, and to Norman Siegel for leading the way and working so no one is forced to sleep on the streets of our city.”

“Since the start of our administration, we said that we would no longer walk past our brothers and sisters in need without extending support,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “SHAP is one way we are actualizing that commitment. The model shows that we can all play a role in connecting with our fellow New Yorkers and, when we do, roughly one out of two people are now voluntarily connecting to supportive programs. We also know that homelessness is a housing challenge. That is why our administration has connected more people than ever to CityFHEPS and we are building more affordable housing in the months and years to come. Thank you to Norman and all our volunteers for their efforts over the last two years, and for all they will do in the time to come.”

“Effectively engaging New Yorkers experiencing homelessness and convincing them to access services requires understanding, respect, compassion, and trust, which are all built through sustained engagements over time,” said New York City Department of Social Services (DSS) Commissioner Molly Wasow Park. “SHAP provides New Yorkers of all walks of life the opportunity to meaningfully participate in this critical work and help their vulnerable neighbors access life-changing supports. This initiative has been an effective supplement to the agency’s comprehensive outreach efforts, and we look forward to continuing to work alongside SHAP volunteers to support our neighbors in need.”

“SHAP’s vision and approach — the same volunteers conducting outreach at the same locations on the same day and time — increases the likelihood of trust being developed between the volunteer and the person experiencing homelessness,” said Norman Siegel, former executive director, New York Civil Liberties Union. “With our strong placement and referral rate over the past two years, the SHAP model has proven to be a successful model for helping people experiencing homelessness voluntarily leave the streets and parks of New York City.”

Since its formation, SHAP has made considerable progress in helping those experiencing homelessness connect with vital services. In its first year, SHAP successfully helped one out of three people experiencing homelessness voluntarily leave the streets. Now, in its second year, approximately one out of two people — 223 individuals experiencing homelessness out of 451 — that have interacted with SHAP have voluntarily left the streets through a referral or placement with a supportive program, a nearly 50 percent rate of success.

Any New Yorker who sees someone in need of assistance can call 311 or file a report through the 311 app.

The Adams administration continues to prioritize transitioning homeless New Yorkers from streets, subways, and homeless shelters into stable, permanent housing. Just last week, Mayor Adams announced that, for the second year in a row, the city has produced more supportive housing and housing for formerly homeless New Yorkers than ever before in New York’s history. The Adams administration additionally moved a record number of homeless New Yorkers into permanent housing through the highest usage of City Fighting Homelessness and Eviction Prevention Supplement (CityFHEPS) housing vouchers and placed a record number of formerly homeless households into permanently-affordable housing.

Additionally, in Fiscal Year (FY) 24, the city built the highest-ever count of supportive homes and homes for the homeless in the city’s history, and increased production of housing for the formerly homeless by 15 percent. DSS helped 16,902 households move out of shelter and into permanent housing over FY24, 12,526 of which were placed into subsidized permanent housing — a more than 20 percent increase over FY23

FORWARDING: NYC EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ISSUES TRAVEL ADVISORY FOR FRIDAY FOR HEAVY RAINFALL AND POTENTIAL FLASH FLOODING

NYCEM ACTIVATES CITY’S FLASH FLOOD EMERGENCY PLAN AND PLACES CITY’S RESPONSE AGENCIES AND CREWS ON ALERT

The Bronx, Northern Manhattan and Northern Queens May be the Most Vulnerable to Flooding

New Yorkers Should Expect Travel Delays and Disruptions on the Friday Afternoon and Evening Commute

Life Threatening Rip Currents are Likely for Surf Zones

August 8, 2024 – The New York City Emergency Management Department has issued a Travel Advisory for Friday, August 9. According to the latest National Weather Service forecast, more widespread heavy rainfall and potential severe thunderstorms are anticipated tomorrow afternoon and evening as Post-tropical Depression Debby merges with a frontal complex over the region and makes its closest approach to NYC. Although not expected to be as severe as the flooding NYC experienced previously this week, storms tomorrow may cause widespread minor flooding across the city, along with localized instances of flash flooding, that may result in disruptions to travel and transportation, particularly during the evening commute. Areas with heavily saturated grounds in the Bronx, northern Manhattan, and northern Queens may be the most vulnerable to flooding. Peak rainfall rates between 1 and 2 inches an hour will be possible.

For today, Thursday, August 8, scattered showers are possible today, with isolated thunderstorms and brief heavy downpours possible after midnight through tomorrow morning. Minor nuisance flooding of low lying and poor drainage areas will be possible during this time.

“New Yorkers are tough and resilient, and we will get through this weather by being prepared and heeding the travel advisory,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “That means being informed by subscribing to Notify NYC, having supplies ready, checking in on your neighbors, and having a plan to leave your basement apartment if it starts flooding. Our city agencies are activated and ready to respond to impacts but we need you to do your part. It’s important to stay informed, keep streets and roads clear, and look out for one another.”

“As Tropical Storm Debby accelerates to the west of us and threatens the area with heavy rain and potential flash flooding, we are once again mobilizing all resources to ensure the safety and well-being of every New Yorker,” said NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol. “While our city successfully navigated the rainfall event earlier this week, we must remain vigilant and prepared a second time. I urge all New Yorkers to take the travel advisory seriously, particularly during the afternoon and evening commute, as travel may be significantly impacted. Stay informed about warnings, changing conditions and potential travel delays through Notify NYC, and please check on loved ones who may need extra support.”

On Friday, localized severe thunderstorms producing sudden damaging wind gusts of 60 mph or greater and tornadoes will also be possible. Outside of thunderstorms, winds will be increasingly breezy tomorrow, particularly along the coast, where gusts of up to 45 mph are possible in the afternoon and evening. Both of these wind threats may cause downed trees, tree limbs, and localized power outages. While the bulk of any impacts are expected tomorrow afternoon into tomorrow night, lingering showers and residual minor flooding will be possible through early Saturday morning with dry conditions anticipated by mid-morning. The National Weather Service issued a Rip Current Statement for Friday, stating “Life-threatening rip currents are likely for all people entering the surf zone. Anyone visiting the beaches should stay out of the surf. Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water.”

New Yorkers are strongly urged to subscribe to emergency weather alerts on Notify NYC, which amplifies all National Weather Service advisories, watches and warnings in 14 languages including American Sign Language, and to stay informed about weather conditions from trusted sources. NYCEM encourages New Yorkers in the next few days to exercise caution when traveling, expect travel delays, and to remain off the roads during and after active weather to allow crews to operate and respond to weather conditions.

In preparation for the forecasted weather conditions, NYC Emergency Management has activated the City’s Flash Flood Emergency Plan. This proactive measure includes enhanced coordination with the National Weather Service, city and state agencies, utility providers, and private sector partners. Coordinated interagency calls are being organized to brief partners on emerging risks, review operational plans for potential severe weather, and to prepare them for possible escalation in their own response measures. Specialized emergency assets and response teams are on standby, ready for rapid deployment as conditions warrant.

The City’s Emergency Operations Center, already active due to the ongoing asylum seeker humanitarian crisis, has enhanced its posture to address the potential weather hazards. Crews from the Department of Environmental Protection and the Department of Transportation are actively inspecting and clearing catch basins in flood-prone areas. Additionally, NYC Emergency Management’s 24/7 Watch Command continues to track the progress and development of any further systems forming in the Atlantic basin on a 24/7 basis.

NYCEM strongly advises all residents, particularly those in flood-prone areas and basement apartments, to take immediate steps to prepare for the approaching storm and future weather event, starting with prioritizing their safety by staying alert and informed by monitoring the latest forecasts and updates from NYC Emergency Management, create a plan to ensure safety during a storm, and prepare a Go Bag with essential supplies like food, water, first aid, and other necessities. For the first time, NYC Emergency Management has launched a WhatsApp channel as part of its multiplatform approach to public messaging and warning, accessible through on.nyc.gov/nycemwhatsapp.

NYC Emergency Management issued the following guidance to help New Yorkers and their families stay safe:

Allow for extra travel time and expect delays with little to no notice. Use public transportation whenever possible.
Do not walk, bike, or drive into flooded streets or enter flooded subway stations.
If you live in a basement or below-grade apartment, be aware that you may be vulnerable to flooding. Follow city guidance for additional actions aimed at below-grade dwellings: before or during heavy rain, remove debris from catch basins in your area to allow the water to enter, and pick up the leaves from your yard to keep them from clogging streets and catch basins. Prepare to move to higher ground if flooding begins, even if it’s raining.
Ahead of the weather, property owners and managers should clean their property, including roofs, crawlspaces, vents, decks/patios, and gutters. Dispose of any debris that could become dangerous projectiles during a storm.
Check on friends, relatives, and neighbors, especially older adults and people with disabilities, access and functional needs, or health conditions. Help them to prepare if needed.
If you require assistance for daily activities, make arrangements in advance for support during the expected weather, ensuring caregivers are aware of and prepared for the weather conditions.
Charge your phones and keep a flashlight and batteries handy. If you lose power and have a disability and/or use life-sustaining equipment and need immediate assistance, call 911.
Always have an emergency kit in your car. It should include items like blankets, a flashlight, water, snacks, a first aid kit, and a snow shovel.
To report power outages, downed power lines or damaged electrical equipment, call your power provider immediately to report the outage. Con Edison’s 24-hour hotline is 800-75-CONED (752-6633) (TTY: 800-642-2308). You can also report an outage online on Con Edison’s website. National Grid’s 24-hour hotline is 718-643-4050 (TTY: 718-237-2857). PSEG Long Island’s 24-hour hotline is 800-490-0025 (TTY: 631-755-6660).

For more safety tips, visit NYC.gov/WeatherUpdates. New Yorkers are encouraged to sign up for Notify NYC, the city’s free emergency notification system, to stay informed about the latest weather updates and other emergencies. Notify NYC is available in 14 languages, including American Sign Language. To learn more about the Notify NYC program or to sign up, New Yorkers can visit the Notify NYC website, call 311, or download the free Notify NYC app for your Android or Apple device. You can now text to 692-692, using the code NOTIFYNYC, NOTIFYNYCESP (Spanish), and NOTIFYFRE (French) to be instantly enrolled to receive the highest priority, verified alerts across all the five boroughs.

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT COALITION TO PROTECT PUBLIC SAFETY, ENHANCE QUALITY OF LIFE ON 14TH STREET IN MANHATTAN

Coalition Includes NYPD, Homeless Services, Health, Sanitation, and Local Partners to Create a Cleaner, Safer, and More Vibrant Neighborhood

$1 Million Mobile NYPD Command Center and Other Investments Secured as Part of Budget

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams was today joined by New York City Police Department (NYPD) Commissioner Edward A. Caban, New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) Commissioner Jessica Tisch, New York City Department of Homeless Services (DHS) Administrator Joslyn Carter, and New York City Department of Mental Health and Hygiene (DOHMH) Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan to announce a targeted multi-agency enforcement strategy on 14^th Street between 1^st Avenue and Avenue A in Lower Manhattan to protect public safety and improve quality of life. Part of the Adams administration’s “Community Link” initiative, the “14^th Street Community Improvement Coalition” is a result of an ongoing partnership between the Adams administration and community partners to address recent deterioration in the neighborhood, and is anchored by a $1 million investment for a new Mobile Command Center to be placed on 14^th Street, secured as part of the fiscally-responsible $112.4 billion Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Adopted Budget passed in June.

The multi-agency coalition will work to address a range of public safety issues, including illegal vending, retail theft, substance use, the mental health crisis, beautification, cumbersome scaffolding that drives quality-of-life issues, unlicensed cannabis shops, and more. Over the past several weeks, multi-agency teams have been deployed on walkthroughs to observe issues in real time and speak with local community members and businesses on the ground. They have also identified specific individuals in the area who may need connections to services, such as housing or medical care, and make referrals to the appropriate city agency or service provider. Additionally, to facilitate direct lines of communication between the community and police, the 9^th and 13^th Police Precincts have established a WhatsApp chat with business owners on the East 14^th Street corridor to identify and address issues in real time and offer a unique channel to respond to community concerns.

“When we came into office, we had a clear mission: protect public safety, rebuild our economy, and make our city more affordable and livable, and the ‘14^th Street Community Improvement Coalition’ precisely addresses these concerns — enhancing quality of life and making the East Village safer,” said Mayor Adams. “Our administration does not and will not tolerate an atmosphere where anything goes. That’s why our multi-agency approach, working in partnership with local elected officials and community members, will keep our streets safe and our businesses thriving, and we are already seeing an impact — with crime dropping in both the 9^th and 13^th Police Precincts this year. Additionally, our efforts are being anchored by a $1 million investment in a new NYPD Mobile Command Center, which will maintain a visible presence and allow our law enforcement to be mobile to meet the communities’ needs. I thank Councilmember Powers and Councilmember Rivera for their partnership on this important initiative.”

“For years, I have called for solutions to address the persistent problems on 14^th Street,” said New York City Councilmember Keith Powers. “I live across the street in Stuyvesant Town and I walk this block every day. The ‘14th Street Community Improvement Coalition’ is the type of effort we need to maintain the progress made over the course of the last month in cleaning up our neighborhood. I am grateful to Mayor Adams and his team for recognizing the need for these resources and allocating them appropriately. My neighbors and I know how critical it will be to maintain this so that folks can continue to feel safe.”

“Residents and business operators on 14^th Street deserve to feel safe, and city agencies are working to protect this corridor from crime and chaos,” said New York City Councilmember Carlina Rivera. “This area welcomes local families, visitors, and commuters every day, and the various quality-of-life issues impacting the community deserve effective, sustainable services and better outcomes. Our coalition is redoubling its commitment to bring stability to these sidewalks, and I commend the Adams administration for their continued focus and investments that reflect public safety as a priority. Together, we must keep working to lift each other up and meet our challenges with meaningful and compassionate solutions.”

The community is served by the 9^th and 13^th Police Precincts, where officers have worked diligently and collaboratively to reduce crime and address community concerns. Overall major crime in the 9^th Precinct has decreased 29.1 percent year to date, from 1,058 reported crimes in 2023 to 750 reported this year. Overall major crime in the 13^th Precinct has decreased 6.8 percent year to date, from 1,016 reported crimes in 2023 to 947 this year. While the community has seen these substantial drops in crime, recent incidents have still caused community concern. To address this, the Adams administration has taken decisive action and will continue to do so by:

Conducting weekly NYPD operations to address homeless encampments, vendors, and persons in need of assistance.
Assigning a dedicated NYPD foot post to address quality-of-life issues and maintain visible presence along the commercial corridor of 14^th
Affixing mobile light fixtures to sustain visibility.
Servicing litter baskets on all three DSNY shifts daily and addressing homeless encampments.
Deploying DSNY graffiti clean-up crews to remove graffiti on private property.
Ensuring availability of mental health units and homeless services outreach teams to support people in-need of mental health support through DOHMH and DHS.

The 14^th Street Community Improvement Coalition will also feature a $1 million investment for a state-of-the-art Mobile Command Center, secured in the FY25 Adopted Budget. The vehicle will initially be stationed in the vicinity of 14^th Street between 1^st Avenue and Avenue A and the NYPD will maintain the flexibility to relocate the unit as circumstances dictate. The Mobile Command Center will be staffed by NYPD uniformed officers and will serve as a central hub for law enforcement operations in the area. It will have the capacity to facilitate communication and coordination among officers — ensuring efficient and effective responses to all manner of quality-of-life conditions, incidents of crime, and major events.

“Our neighborhood safety and livability are top priorities for the city,” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “Through our ‘Community Link’ initiative, the Adams administration continues to deliver our goals of revitalizing neighborhood businesses, improving public safety, and addressing quality-of-life issues. We will continue to work with our community partners to meet the needs of residents and business owners on 14^th Street, as well as other neighborhoods, so that New Yorkers experience the responsiveness, safety, and cleanliness that can make every New York City community thrive.”

“We work best when we work together,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “‘Community Link’ is a strong example of interagency collaboration, resulting in better services for New Yorkers and the communities in which they live. As our teams continue to engage those in need throughout the city, we look forward to bringing these resources to the 14^th Street corridor with a more targeted approach. Thank you to our community partners and the teams doing this work.”

“14^th Street is a vibrant community hub and anchor of New York’s economy; maintaining the corridor with dignity and care is a pre-requisite to its success, and by extension, the city’s,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “We extend our deep thanks to the hard-working men and women who will keep this corridor clean and reach out with mental health services for those in need.”

“The community concerns we are confronting along the 14^th Street corridor show that quality-of-life issues are just as important for the police and our partners to address as serious crime, which is down this year both locally and citywide,” said NYPD Commissioner Caban. “Public safety is a shared responsibility, and our coordinated, multi-agency strategy to improve conditions and reinvigorate this neighborhood will assure New Yorkers that every person and every business in every community matter.”

“Improving safety, quality of life, and livability starts with health and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to live healthier, longer lives,” said DOHMH Commissioner Dr. Vasan. “By listening to the Lower Manhattan community and connecting those who need it with accessible, high-quality care and services for mental and physical well-being, we’re doing just that.”

“Properly addressing public safety and quality of life concerns requires a comprehensive, interagency approach that seeks to remedy conditions that negatively impact the experiences of residents and businesses,” said New York City Department of Social Services (DSS) Commissioner Molly Wasow Park. “We will continue to coordinate closely with our agency partners and the community as we engage New Yorkers experiencing unsheltered homelessness, work to build trust, and connect them to services and supports, like our low-barrier facilities designed specifically to serve our unsheltered neighbors that will help them stabilize their lives and get back on their feet.”

“In order to create a city that is safer, more livable, and more prosperous for all, we must work across agencies to effectively address community concerns by not only attending the immediate conditions, but by tackling their underlying causes and connecting New Yorkers in need to the city’s robust array of services and supports,” said DHS Administrator Carter. “Lasting change requires ongoing communication and collaboration, and we are proud to work with our partners in government and the 14th Street community to find ways to enhance outreach services in the area to help more New Yorkers in need come inside, get connected to services, and ultimately move into permanent housing.”

“Public safety is a shared responsibility, and the ‘14th Street Community Improvement Coalition’ is a smart multi-agency initiative that will ensure the whole of government is working together with business owners and residents to deliver a clean, safe city for all New Yorkers,” said DSNY Commissioner Tisch. “From graffiti clean-up to frequent litter basket collection to enforcement, ‘New York’s Strongest’ will work with our partners at the NYPD and other city agencies around the clock here, and across the five boroughs, to address the quality-of-life concerns that matter to local residents.”

“Our clean-up efforts on 14^th Street reaffirm the NYPD’s commitment to improving quality of life in this city and our duty to keep the community safe,” said NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell. “We appreciate and welcome the opportunity to once again work with our partner agencies to address complaints we have received about public safety and quality-of-life issues as we work to create a long-term solution that will benefit the neighborhood.”

In 2023, Mayor Adams launched the Community Link initiative, spearheaded by First Deputy Mayor Wright and Deputy Mayor Banks. Community Link brings together different city departments and agencies with the community and business leaders to address complex and often chronic community complaints, including public safety and persistent quality-of-life issues, that require a multi-agency response. Participating city agencies include:

DHS (under DSS)
DOHMH
DSNY
Fire Department of the City of New York
Mayor’s Office of Community Mental Health
New York City Department of Buildings
New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection
New York City Department of Environmental Protection
New York City Department of Parks and Recreation
New York City Department of Small Business Services
New York City Department of Transportation
NYPD
Office of the Special Narcotics Prosecutor for the City of New York

Since its inception, Community Link has already convened five community improvement coalitions throughout the five boroughs. Over the last 18 months, Community Link has responded to over 800 complaints and conducted over 600 operations to address quality-of-life concerns raised by the communities they serve.

“Recent crimes and quality of life issues have made this stretch of 14th Street a significant area of concern for the residents of my district as well as for me and other elected officials who represent the area. My colleagues and I have been working with city agencies and community leaders to address these concerns and I believe that the launch of the 14th Street Community Improvement Coalition will facilitate continued strong collaboration, aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of the community,” said New York State Senator Brian Kavanagh. “With a dedicated focus on addressing issues as they arise and the establishment of direct communication channels with local businesses, we are taking proactive steps to enhance the quality of life on 14th Street and foster a thriving environment for all. I thank the mayor, all the city agencies we’ve been working with, and Councilmember Carlina Rivera, who has shown great leadership in convening stakeholders and bringing forth this initiative.”

“This is a welcome approach to addressing the overlapping issues of homelessness, drug addiction and mental health challenges,” said New York State Assemblymember Deborah J. Glick. Since the pandemic, most communities face this constellation of problems that seem intractable and give the general public a sense of disorder. It is crucial to address these multiple issues with a coordinated response, and I am pleased to see this multi-agency effort to connect those in need to critical services while securing the safety and comfort of residents and small business owners in our neighborhoods. I thank Mayor Adams and his administration for this focus on 14th Street.”

“Over the past several years, I have worked with local elected officials to encourage the mayor’s office to take action to address the challenges in this portion of the neighborhood,” said New York State Assemblymember Harvey Epstein. “We all deserve to feel safe in our neighborhood and we must develop long-term solutions to address the series of issues we have confronted on 14th Street. I look forward to continuing to partner with Mayor Adams to make our community safer and address the root causes of violence.”

“Today we launch a historic ’14th Street Community Improvement Coalition’ to address quality of life on East 14th Street, a bustling corridor that has faced tremendous challenges since the pandemic,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “In June, two people were hospitalized and one died from stabbings in broad daylight, showing the human toll of the crisis. We will not accept this for even one more day and are springing into action with our multi-agency coalition. We are unleashing a comprehensive approach to beautify the neighborhood, crack down on crimes like illegal vending and retail theft, close unlicensed cannabis shops, and get people facing homelessness and substance abuse off the streets and into supportive housing. I am proud of my contributions, passing the SMOKEOUT Act to give cannabis enforcement power to the city, which has already padlocked multiple smoke shops on 14th Street. We are also siting a new $1 million Mobile Command Center on 14th Street, one of many responsible investments in our Adopted Budget. Together, we are going to bring unprecedented safety, vitality, and prosperity to one of New York City’s most popular corridors.”

“We’ve seen this type of multiagency coordination effort work well across the city, and it’s clear we need it here. From public safety to quality-of-life, to public health issues, East 14th Street is increasingly facing challenges that require innovative and holistic solutions,” said Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine. “I’m grateful to Mayor Adams and Councilmembers Rivera and Powers for their leadership to curb this crisis.”

MAYOR ADAMS, GOVERNOR HOCHUL ANNOUNCE FLOATING + POOL TO BE LOCATED AT PIER 35

Pier 35 Near Manhattan’s Lower East Side Selected as Final Location for + POOL

Water Filtration Demonstration Project Begins This Month to
Help Ensure the Health and Safety of Future Swimmers

Builds on Adams Administration’s Historic Investments to Keep New Yorkers Safe from Increasingly Hot Summers, Furthers City’s Commitment to Water Safety Education

First-of-Its-Kind Floating + POOL Targeted to Open for Testing in Summer of 2025

NEW YORK –– New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a step forward in demonstrating the feasibility of a filtered floating pool in New York City waters, which will be located at Pier 35 near Manhattan’s Lower East Side. The city is partnering with the state to jointly fund a water filtration demonstration project at Pier 35 starting this August to help ensure this innovative model can safely provide swimming access for New Yorkers.

“New York City’s waterways are some of our most important assets. By exploring the possibility of a + POOL, we are not only building on our historic investments in public pools across the city, but also expanding equitable access to swimming for all New Yorkers, especially our children,” said Mayor Adams. “Whether it’s investing over $1 billion in capital to build and maintain public pools, opening more pools this summer, or increasing the number of lifeguards at our beaches and pools, our administration is giving New Yorkers additional ways to stay cool as climate change makes heat waves more common. We look forward to continuing to work with Governor Hochul to achieve an equitable vision for swimming in New York City.”

“Through innovative solutions like + POOL, we are providing children and their families with safe spaces to swim in New York City,” said Governor Hochul. “NY SWIMS is the largest statewide investment in swimming since the New Deal, and we’re increasing access to pools while helping our kids learn how to stay safe in the water.”

“The interagency and community collaboration to bring New York City’s first water-filtering floating swimming pool to life has been incredible,” said Kara Meyer, managing director, + POOL. “It demonstrates New York at its best –– when the people are working together to advocate for change, evolve systems, design solutions, test concepts, and build innovations. It’s what makes New York, New York.”

In January 2024, Mayor Adams and Governor Hochul announced that New York City and New York state would collaborate on launching + POOL, a state-of-the-art swimming facility that — after fulfilling health and safety requirements — will float in the waters surrounding New York City. The city and state are jointly funding the first round of + POOL’s demonstration project starting this August to provide the data needed to develop New York City’s first water-filtering floating swimming pool.

The filtration demonstration project at Pier 35, starting this August, as well as a pilot of the pool for final testing in 2025, will help ensure this innovative model can safely provide swimming access for New Yorkers. Testing will assess water quality and help evaluate the additional requirements recently detailed by New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene’s protocol for non-traditional recreational water projects and the New York state Department of Health’s framework for novel bathing facilities.

“Today’s announcement is a result of strong partnerships across government to achieve innovation,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams Isom. “We are grateful to our partners at + POOL and at the state. We will continue to carry out this project with an equity and environmental focus to work towards expanding swimming access, and to do so thoughtfully for years to come.”

“Public infrastructure to keep New Yorkers cool in the summer months will be absolutely crucial for a climate change future,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “That’s why we have spent this summer recruiting more lifeguards, it’s why we will invest a billion dollars in pool infrastructure citywide, and its why we are so excited to take this next step on + POOL, which could be an iconic addition to our city for fun as well as safety.”

The announcement builds on a more than $1 billion capital investment from the Adams administration in building, improving, and protecting New York City’s public pools over the course of five years. This funding will mark the city’s highest period of investment in swimming infrastructure since the 1970s. Through the administration’s “Let’s Swim NYC” plan, the city is bringing needed funding to 39 pools, including building two brand new indoor pools and fully renovating three additional pools. The historic investment will expand safe water access throughout the five boroughs, promoting public safety and helping more New Yorkers learn life-saving water safety skills. As previously announced, the city is also building a new $147 million recreation center with an indoor pool at Roy Wilkins Park in St. Albans, Queens and an indoor pool at the $141 million Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center in East Flatbush, Brooklyn. These two pools represent the first added to New York City parks since 2008. In partnership with the Central Park Conservancy, the city is also investing $60 million to open a new and improved pool at the Harlem Meer in place of the former Lasker Pool, providing Harlem residents with a beautiful new pool and rink facility, thoughtfully incorporated into the landscape of Central Park’s north end. The pool is scheduled to open in the summer of 2025.

Beyond recent capital investment in the city’s pools, the Adams administration has also taken strong steps to combat a nationwide lifeguard shortage to ensure that as many of New York City’s pools and beaches can be open for safe swimming as possible this summer. In late May, an arbitration panel issued an award in the city’s ongoing negotiations with the bargaining unit representing city lifeguards that will functionally pave the way for the city to be able to hire more lifeguards, allow more swimming capacity at beaches and pools over the coming summers, and improve operations of the city lifeguard program. Among other things, the award will allow the city to modify the qualification for lifeguards assigned to shallow water pools and modernize the vision requirements to be more in line with state regulations and industry standards. This builds on the city’s agreement with District Council 37 earlier this year to permanently improve the pay of city lifeguards to $22 per hour as of this summer, along with a $1,000 per year bonus for returning lifeguards.

This summer, New Yorkers can enjoy upgraded outdoor public pools in all five boroughs:

Astoria Pool in Queens reopened after an approximately $19 million reconstruction, with a brand-new pool shell, deck, and lighting; state-of-the-art filtration and chemical treatment systems; and upgraded heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and electrical equipment.
NYC Parks has opened a fully renovated mini-pool at Edenwald Playground in the Bronx.
New colorful concrete pool decks, new plantings for color and shade, new benches, fencing, and ADA ramps will greet visitors to John Jay and Sheltering Arms Pools in Manhattan and West Brighton Pool in Staten Island, all modeled after the Cool Pools initiative.
Less visible but vital renovations will keep pools operating smoothly, including new utility lines and HVAC systems at Betsy HeadPool in Brooklyn, Lyons Pool in Staten Island, and Highbridge and Jackie Robinson Pools in Manhattan that will ensure these free public amenities continue to serve generations to come.

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES EXPANDED WORKFORCE SERVICES, HIRING MILESTONE FOR NEW YORKERS WITH DISABILITIES

Investments Include Expansion of Services Within Workforce1 Career Centers and Paid Internship Opportunities for People with Disabilities

City Ahead of Schedule of First Year Goal of Connecting New Yorkers with Disabilities to Career Training, Support Services, and Employment

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, the New York City Mayor’s Office of Talent and Workforce Development (NYC Talent), and the New York City Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD) today announced expanded workforce services for New Yorkers with disabilities and celebrated a hiring milestone for this community. Thanks to a previous $1.5 million investment from the New York state Department of Labor, the city will launch the New York Systems Change and Inclusive Opportunities Network (SCION) at 18 Workforce1 Career Centers, run by the New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS) to train staff to better serve and prepare individuals with disabilities for careers. To increase opportunities in city government, NYC Talent is expanding the Partnership for Inclusive Internships (PII) program to place 100 additional New Yorkers with disabilities over three years into paid internships with the goal of becoming employed full time. Since originally announcing a goal of connecting 2,500 New Yorkers with disabilities to good-paying jobs and careers over three years, the Adams administration is ahead of schedule, already connecting over 500 individuals with disabilities to jobs.

Those who are interested in applying or learning more about job opportunities for people with disabilities can visit NYC: ATWORK, which exists within MOPD and recruits, pre-screens, and connects New Yorkers with disabilities to jobs and internships with established business partners in both the public and private sectors. To learn more about internships through the Partnership for Inclusive Internships, individuals can visit their website.

“As our city celebrates record economic growth and historic job numbers, all New Yorkers must feel the impact of our shared prosperity, especially New Yorkers with disabilities,” said Mayor Adams. “For too long, people with disabilities have either been left behind or entirely forgotten as the city developed its workforce. In our administration, we have brought everyone to the table to learn from the past so we can build a better, more inclusive future. Today’s announcement is a critical step forward as we continue to honor our pledge of creating an economy that serves all.”

“Today, we take a significant step forward in our commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable New York City,” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “By expanding workforce services, we are providing invaluable career training and internships for New Yorkers with disabilities. This initiative is a testament to our dedication to ensuring that every New Yorker has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.”

“Connecting New Yorkers with disabilities to career track employment is crucial to this administration’s vision for an inclusive workforce,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “Today’s milestone makes clear that this administration is tireless in its effort to ensure all new Yorkers can reach their full potential. Looking to year two of the Center for Workplace Accessibility and Inclusion, I am eager to continue removing barriers to jobs and career success for New Yorkers with disabilities.”

“Today’s announcement exemplifies our administration’s fundamental belief that all New Yorkers deserve a fair shot at a good-paying job and economic stability,” said City Hall Chief Counsel Lisa Zornberg. “Government needs to meet New Yorkers where they are and because of our cross-agency collaboration and coordination, we are able to do just that. While today we celebrate our major progress, tomorrow we continue the work of ensuring that people with disabilities receive the training and resources needed to thrive in our city’s economy.”

“The Adams administration has invested in positioning individuals with disabilities for career success and see it as a critical component of creating a more inclusive, equitable economy that works for all New Yorkers,” said NYC Talent Executive Director Abby Jo Sigal. “Through public-private partnerships, innovative new programming, and investments in Workforce1, which is the backbone of the city’s workforce development system, we are removing barriers to employment so that New Yorkers with disabilities can contribute to and benefit from the city’s prosperity.”

“At the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities, we are dedicated to ensuring that every New Yorker with a disability has the opportunity to thrive in their career. The progress we’ve made in connecting individuals to jobs and internships — from MOPD’s creation of the ‘NYC: ATWORK’ initiative to our current and ongoing collaborations — is a testament to the efforts across city agencies and private partners,” said MOPD Commissioner Christina Curry. “By breaking down barriers and investing in tailored support, we are not only exceeding our goals, but also paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable workforce. We are very happy to support and collaborate with our partners at NYC Talent, SBS, and DCAS in this vital mission. Our commitment to this goal remains unwavering as we continue to create pathways to success for all New Yorkers with disabilities.”

“We were proud to partner with our colleagues at MOPD and NYC Talent on this task force as we collectively work to deliver on this administration’s goal of strong, sustainable pathways to careers for New Yorkers living with disabilities,” said New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) Commissioner Louis A. Molina. “Through this partnership — and the efforts of this administration — we have already placed thousands of talented New Yorkers with disabilities in long-term positions, created a record number of jobs, and have no plans of slowing down. We look forward to continuing this work as we help to create accessible pathways to employment for all New Yorkers.”

“New York City’s workforce is as diverse as the people who call it home, and that includes those who have disabilities,” said SBS Acting Commissioner Dynishal Gross. “The Adams administration’s significant investment in SBS’s Workforce1 Career Centers will help remove barriers for individuals with disabilities and ensure our staff is trained to effectively support their career success. I want to thank MOPD Commissioner Christina Curry and NYC Talent Executive Director Abby Jo Sigal for their partnership as we solidify the city’s place as the global leader in economic opportunity for all.”

Today’s announcement highlights the Adams administration’s commitment to ensuring all New Yorkers, including people with disabilities, have access to good-paying, stable jobs. The city is ahead of schedule on its goal, exceeding its first-year benchmark of connecting 350 individuals with disabilities to jobs, with the aim to expand and increase goals in the following years. Both Workforce1 Career Centers — which include professional development, referral services, and direct job placements — and the 55-a program — which helps eligible, qualified individuals with disabilities to be hired into competitive civil service positions without having to take an exam — have worked to support people with disabilities find job opportunities.

NYC Talent’s Center for Workplace Accessibility and Inclusion (CWAI) will help oversee programming and work across city agencies, private partners, and businesses to identify and eliminate barriers for people with disabilities. The CWAI will create an advisory council — chaired by Angela Lean, senior program lead for accessible employee experience at Microsoft, and composed of public and private sector partners — to help advise city agencies on workforce development strategies, identify supportive partners, and elevate best practices to create an accessibility framework and resource toolbox for employers.

The Adams administration has made continued investments towards creating apprenticeship opportunities across New York City. In June, NYC Talent celebrated major progress towards achieving the administration’s moonshot goal of delivering 30,000 apprenticeships by 2030, a key commitment first laid out in Mayor Adams’ 2023 State of the City address. The city is currently on track to deliver over 14,000 apprenticeship opportunities by the end of 2024 — ahead of schedule and nearly halfway towards the goal announced last year.

In April, Mayor Adams also announced the launch of the New York City Workforce Development Council, a group of leaders from the business community, educational institutions, unions, and training providers who will help develop and sustain strategies that will aid New Yorkers in finding family-sustaining careers and help employers tap the talent they need to succeed. NYC Talent announced two requests for proposals and a request for information to broaden the city’s understanding of the apprenticeship landscape and determine the support needed to expand apprenticeships. Additionally, last year, Mayor Adams announced “Pathways to an Inclusive Economy: An Action Plan for Young Adult Career Success,” an over $600 million action plan to bolster the city’s talent ecosystem.  

In April, Mayor Adams launched “Run This Town,” a multi-media advertising campaign to engage diverse New Yorkers and help them apply for thousands of available city government jobs. The announcement followed the launch of “Jobs NYC,” a multi-pronged citywide effort to reduce barriers to economic opportunities and deliver workforce development services directly to communities across the five boroughs that are experiencing high unemployment. Both campaigns are expected to further reduce the unacceptable disparities in employment between Black, Latino, and white communities. Finally, the Adams administration continues to host hiring halls to bring both public- and private-sector job opportunities to neighborhoods across the five boroughs on a monthly basis.  

“I am grateful to Mayor Adams for my appointment as executive director of the Center for Workplace Accessibility and Inclusion as part of this multi-agency collaboration and along with CWAI Director Shondelle Nicholls are focused on achieving our goal to make New York City a model employer,” said Martha Jackson, executive director, CWAI. ”Today, we announced the newly established CWAI Advisory Council members, representing business, the arts, education, nonprofits, health and wellness, hospitality, technology, and finance. With their help we can build on best practices and continue to foster the strong relationships with our committed partners while growing our network of employers to help New York businesses become accessible and inclusive for all.”

“The outstanding accomplishments that this collaboration of city partners has achieved in just its first year reflect the historic level of investment the Adams administration is making to increase employment for people with disabilities,” said Chris Neale, senior advisor, NYC Talent. “These efforts advance equity and shared prosperity by reducing barriers and increasing access to jobs and careers for all New Yorkers.”

“We’re excited to be working with our partners in city government to create innovative new workforce approaches that will uplift the economic well-being of New Yorkers with disabilities,” said David Berman, director of programs and evaluation, New York City Mayor’s Office for Economic Opportunity. “We’re particularly pleased to be advancing equity driven strategies that work directly with people with disabilities and other stakeholders to co-design new impactful and inclusive services, and to build evidence for what works.”

“Microsoft applauds New York City’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and accessible future through technology,” said Angela Lean, senior program lead, accessible employee experience, Microsoft. “This Fall, we are supporting the city’s initiative to provide accessibility training for New York City’s 300,000-person workforce, enabling everyone to participate more fully in our increasingly digital world.”

“By working together, we can help eliminate barriers that prevent individuals living with mental illness from gaining employment,” said New York State Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan. “The Center for Workplace Accessibility and Inclusion represents a collaboration to address these issues and ensure all New Yorkers have a path toward career success. We are proud to partner in this work and to continue seeking ways that we can ensure our workforce is inclusive for all.”

“This initiative is a game-changer for people with disabilities who have been historically overlooked in the workforce,” said Marjorie Parker, CEO and president, JobsFirstNYC. “The significant increase in support and opportunities provided by the Adams administration is especially critical now, given the rising number of young people out of school and work reporting a wide range of disabilities. By breaking down barriers and fostering an inclusive environment, we are not only empowering these individuals but also enriching our community with their talents and contributions.”

“The NYC Workforce Funders Collaborative celebrates the progress made by the CWAI in its first year,” said Cass Conrad, collaborative co-chair, NYC Workforce Funders Collaborative; and executive director, The Carroll and Milton Petrie Foundation. “We commend the city for prioritizing employment for New Yorkers with disabilities and undertaking this groundbreaking effort to make both its workforce strategy and its services truly inclusive.”

NYC EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ISSUES TRAVEL ADVISORY FOR TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY FOR HEAVY RAINFALL AND POTENTIAL FLASH FLOODING

NYCEM ACTIVATES CITY’S FLASH FLOOD EMERGENCY PLAN AND PLACES CITY’S RESPONSE AGENCIES AND CREWS ON ALERT

A second heavy rainfall is also possible later this week as the remnants of Tropical Storm Debby move into the region

August 5, 2024 – The New York City Emergency Management Department has issued a Travel Advisory for Tuesday, August 6 into Wednesday, August 7. The National Weather Service has issued a citywide Flood Watch in effect from 2:00 p.m. tomorrow Tuesday to 12:00 p.m. Wednesday. According to the latest forecast, a frontal boundary will move through the metro area beginning tomorrow and will stall in the region into Wednesday. A few isolated showers and thunderstorms may produce briefly heavy rainfall and minor flooding as early as tomorrow morning with storms increasing in coverage by the afternoon. More widespread showers and thunderstorms may develop over the city overnight into Wednesday morning, with the potential for continued storm activity during the day Wednesday. As of right now, the worst of the impacts are anticipated tomorrow evening and overnight into early Wednesday morning.

“New Yorkers should prepare in advance of the storms and take the necessary precautions to remain safe,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “While we expect some disruptions from this weather, all relevant city agencies have been activated and are prepared to handle whatever comes our way. New Yorkers, do your part: stay informed, stay alert, and, if you can, stay put during the worst of it. Sign up for Notify NYC and listen to the experts. New Yorkers are resilient, resourceful, and we look out for each other. That’s what will get us through this storm and any others that come our way.”

“New York City is bracing for heavy rain and possible flash flooding tomorrow into Wednesday,” said NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol. “New Yorkers should prepare for potential weather impacts that could disrupt travel, especially during the commute. We have activated a comprehensive response plan with our city agencies and utility partners to ensure the safety and well-being of all New Yorkers. I urge everyone to stay informed about changing weather conditions and potential travel delays through Notify NYC. Please also take a moment to check on your loved ones, particularly those who might need extra assistance during this time.”

The magnitude and location of heavy rain and flooding remains uncertain. Currently, the NWS predicts the heaviest rain to occur to the southwest of the city. The latest forecast calls for 1 to 2 inches of rain with locally higher amounts possible. Increased amounts will be possible if the boundary stalls directly over the city.

In terms of impacts, flash flooding of roadways and properties may occur quickly, particularly in low-lying and poor drainage areas. Underground infrastructure, including basements, may also experience flooding. While much of the flooding is expected to be localized, more extensive flooding will be possible depending on where the boundary stalls. Travel delays and disruptions will also be possible during both the evening commute tomorrow and again Wednesday morning. In addition, there’s a low chance for severe thunderstorms tomorrow afternoon and evening producing sudden strong to damaging wind gusts of 50 to 60 mph, which may blow down trees and cause localized power outages.

New Yorkers are strongly urged to subscribe to emergency weather alerts on Notify NYC, which amplifies all National Weather Service advisories, watches and warnings in 14 languages including American Sign Language, and to stay informed about weather conditions from trusted sources. NYCEM encourages New Yorkers in the next few days to exercise caution when traveling, expect travel delays, and to remain off the roads during and after active weather to allow crews to operate and respond to weather conditions.

NYC Emergency Management issued the following guidance to help New Yorkers and their family stay safe, regardless of the storm’s ultimate course:

Allow for extra travel time and expect delays with little to no notice. Use public transportation whenever possible.

Do not walk, bike, or drive into flooded streets or enter flooded subway stations.

If you live in a basement or below-grade apartment, be aware that you may be vulnerable to flooding. Follow city guidance for additional actions aimed at below-grade dwellings: before or during heavy rain, remove debris from catch basins in your area to allow the water to enter, and pick up the leaves from your yard to keep them from clogging streets and catch basins. Prepare to move to higher ground if flooding begins, even if it’s raining.

Ahead of the weather, property owners and managers should clean their property, including roofs, crawlspaces, vents, decks/patios, and gutters. Dispose of any debris that could become dangerous projectiles during a storm.

Check on friends, relatives, and neighbors, especially older adults and people with disabilities, access and functional needs, or health conditions. Help them to prepare if needed.

If you require assistance for daily activities, make arrangements in advance for support during the expected weather, ensuring caregivers are aware of and prepared for the weather conditions.

Charge your phones and keep a flashlight and batteries handy. If you lose power and have a disability and/or use life-sustaining equipment and need immediate assistance, call 911.

Always have an emergency kit in your car. It should include items like blankets, a flashlight, water, snacks, a first aid kit, and a snow shovel.

To report power outages, downed power lines or damaged electrical equipment, call your power provider immediately to report the outage. Con Edison’s 24-hour hotline is 800-75-CONED (752-6633) (TTY: 800-642-2308). You can also report an outage online on Con Edison’s website. National Grid’s 24-hour hotline is 718-643-4050 (TTY: 718-237-2857). PSEG Long Island’s 24-hour hotline is 800-490-0025 (TTY: 631-755-6660).

For more safety tips, visit NYC.gov/WeatherUpdates. New Yorkers are encouraged to sign up for Notify NYC, the city’s free emergency notification system, to stay informed about the latest weather updates and other emergencies. Notify NYC is available in 14 languages, including American Sign Language. To learn more about the Notify NYC program or to sign up, New Yorkers can visit the Notify NYC website, call 311, or download the free Notify NYC app for your Android or Apple device. You can now text to 692-692, using the code NOTIFYNYC, NOTIFYNYCESP (Spanish), and NOTIFYFRE (French) to be instantly enrolled to receive the highest priority, verified alerts across all the five boroughs.

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING: EVEN MORE NEW YORKERS PRAISE MAYOR ADAMS’ NOMINATION OF RANDY MASTRO AS CITY’S NEXT CORPORATION COUNSEL

NEW YORK – Today, New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced Randy Mastro as his nominee to be the city’s next corporation counsel. Randy Mastro is a nationally-renowned lawyer; an experienced public servant with an impressive record in government service; a long-time pro bono advocate for social justice, civil rights, and constitutional rights; a leader of revered civic organizations; and a proven leader committed to diversity and inclusion.

Here’s what even more New Yorkers are saying:

“Randy Mastro is an exceptional lawyer who would make a fantastic corporation counsel,” said U.S. Representative Tom Suozzi. “The city would be fortunate to be the beneficiary of his intellect, work ethic, experience, and his zeal for public service.”

“No one is one-dimensional, even as our current politics ignore that,” said New York State Assemblymember Deborah Glick. “I appreciated Randy Mastro’s support for domestic partnership, then marriage equality, and he was the pro bono lawyer for my community and me against New York University’s expansion.”

“I have known Randy Mastro for many years, and I wish to express my enthusiastic support for his consideration as Corporation Counsel,” said New York State Assemblymember and former New York City Councilmember David Weprin. “After I was elected to the New York City Council, Randy was very helpful to me and gave me useful guidance upon my selection as Finance Chair. Randy is a fine public servant, a brilliant thinker, and would make a great choice for the role of Corporation Counsel.”

“Randy Mastro is a superb lawyer and advocate, who I have no doubt will be an exceptional corporation counsel for the City of New York,” said Jonathan Lippman, former chief judge, New York State Court of Appeals. “I commend Mayor Adams for making such a wise choice to fill such a critically important position in the administration.”

“Randy was there early, consistently, creatively, and helpfully, on the frontlines of the work to end discrimination against gay people and same-sex couples for over three decades,” said Evan Wolfson, founder, Freedom to Marry. “Randy remains committed to the work we have done together, and the work still needed. He made significant contributions to it, and I am proud of him for his help, skill, and heartfelt commitment. Our movement’s progress so far, as well as the urgent work still at hand, depends upon enlisting partners who care and bring their talents and passion to the cause. Randy has been one of those partners, and I am happy to support him now. He would be a very effective corporation counsel, an honest advisor, and an important and valuable engine of accomplishment for our city.”

“Mayor Adams has done well to nominate Randy Mastro as corporation counsel. Randy not only possesses a brilliant legal mind which no doubt will serve him well as the city’s top lawyer, but he also has an unwavering commitment to work tirelessly and zealously on behalf of all New Yorkers,” said Rolando Acosta, partner, Pillsbury Winthrop LLC and former presiding justice, Appellate Division, First Department. “I have personally observed his formidable talents when he litigated fundamental legal policy issues before me in Supreme Court and the First Department, and more recently as co-counsel arguing appellate cases. He is a smart and conscientious lawyer, and I can’t think of anyone more qualified to serve New Yorkers as corporation counsel of the City of New York.”

“To be an outstanding corporation counsel, one must be a top-flight lawyer, a proven administrator, and a master of public policy as well as law. Randy Mastro is all of these — and more,” said Hon. David B. Saxe, LLP, partner, Morrison Cohen and former associate justice, Appellate Division, First Department. “His administrative skills were evident when he served as a deputy mayor and City Hall chief of staff in a prior mayoral administration. I had the privilege of listening to Randy argue many important appeals during my almost twenty years of service as an appellate judge. He has a razor-sharp mind and is a deeply analytical legal thinker. His legal practice has been broad-based touching on many corridors of our society, which has enabled him to understand and participate fully in the shifting policy arguments that are constantly at work in government. These attributes, among others, make Randy Mastro ideal for appointment as New York City’s next corporation counsel.”

“Lawyers should be judged on their professionalism and the effectiveness of their advocacy, not by the allegations lodged against their clients,” said Carmen Ciparick, former Associate Judge, New York Court of Appeals. “This is the genius of our judicial system, which expects lawyers to take on clients whose causes are often unpopular. Randy Mastro has proven himself a skilled and effective advocate over decades and meets a high standard of lawyering. I have observed these qualities firsthand as he appeared before me on multiple occasions.”

“I have known Randy Mastro since 1994, and public service is his first love. A Democrat with a heart and intellectual integrity, his leadership at Citizens Union as chair has lifted the organization and refocused its mission. Mayors always need good lawyers, but getting a good lawyer that is a huge public advocate is unique,” said Tonio Burgos, member, Democratic National Committee and former aide to New York Governor Mario Cuomo. “Over the years I have worked with Randy on economic issues, social issues and his compassion and legal skills come together in different communities, like issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community, and issues surrounding a woman’s right to choose. His work under a previous mayor focused on building New York City’s economy while returning old industries like the Fulton Fish Market on South Street, Pier 17, the amazing access to the waterfront that was created for New Yorkers and the millions of tourists that come to New York City. He also saved critical jobs at the Fish Market by finding them a home, along with other food industries, to the famous Hunts Point Market in the Bronx. Today, both communities thrive due to Randy’s legacy, policy, and persuasive skills.”

“Randy has been both a personal friend and professional counterpart for many years – and his love and dedication to New York City is evident to anyone who crosses his path,” said Charles John O’Byrne, executive vice president for policy, Related Companies, and former Secretary to New York Governor David Paterson. “Randy is a brilliant legal mind whose track record as a civic leader is underscored by his work at the bipartisan Citizens Union where I was proud to serve alongside him on the board of directors.”

“Randy Mastro is a person of exceptional moral character and has been that way for the more than 30 years that I have known him,” said Devorah Halberstam, co-founder, Jewish Children’s Museum and gun safety advocate. “In some of our darkest days following the tragic death of my son, Randy was there for me every step of the way, helping us navigate government, the legal system, and the unimaginable pain that grieving families experience. Randy would be an excellent choice for the position of corporation counsel, not only because he is a fighter for justice, but also because he is a master of the law, and a champion in understanding the many diverse communities that make up New York City and their unique needs. Randy is what this city needs.”

“I am pleased to support Randy Mastro’s nomination as the city’s top lawyer and to see him returning to city government,” said Imam Izak-El Mu’eed Pasha, community leader and Muslim cleric in Harlem. “We worked together when he was last in City Hall. I know him to be someone committed to social justice, civil rights, and inclusion. And I know he cares deeply about good government. We should welcome his return to city government for the good of all New Yorkers.”

“I first met Randy Mastro over 25 years ago when he was deputy mayor. Randy Mastro was brilliant, independent, and cared about our city,” said Virginia Kee, founding member, Chinese-American Planning Council. “In my experience, he has always been deeply committed to diversity, inclusion and social justice. I am therefore proud to enthusiastically support him and welcome his return to city government.”

“I know Randy from his pro bono work, and, in particular, two cases that we worked on together that were very important to the people of the City of New York. One was for the United Federation of Teachers and its then-President Randi Weingarten on one of the United Teacher Federation’s highest priorities: hiring more teachers to reduce class size. In court, Randy was passionate, relentless, and so convincing that immediately after the hearing, Randi Weingarten said to me, ‘He’s really good.’ And he was,” said Jerry Goldfeder, senior counsel, Cozen O’Connor. “I have no doubt that, as corporation counsel, Randy Mastro would be an excellent public servant for all of the people of New York City, and for all of our institutions, including the City Council. If he is nominated and confirmed, I believe you would find him to be creative, tenacious, and totally responsive. A man of utmost integrity, Randy would serve the city and all of us in the highest professional way.”

MAYOR ADAMS, DEPARTMENT OF YOUTH AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ANNOUNCE $2 MILLION IN EXPANDED SUMMER PROGRAMMING AND SERVICES TO KEEP YOUNG PEOPLE SAFE IN FINAL MONTH OF SUMMER

Part of Adams Administration’s “Summer of Possibility” Celebrating City’s Unrivaled Summer Offerings

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) Commissioner Keith Howard today announced $2 million in expanded programming and services to continue to keep young people safe in the final weeks of summer. The expanded programs and services will be invested in historically underserved neighborhoods, including the six priority New York City Police Department (NYPD) precincts identified in “A Blueprint for Community Safety,” a forward-thinking roadmap with upstream solutions to address gun violence throughout the five boroughs. Today’s announcement is a part of Mayor Adams’ “Summer of Possibility,” a celebration of New York City’s unrivaled summer offerings, at a time when crime is down, jobs are up, and the city is more livable than when the Adams administration came into office.

“This summer, our administration has kept crime down, young people safe, and highlighted the very best in fun and entertainment New York City has to offer,” said Mayor Adams. “In the final weeks of summer, we are doubling down on our efforts and investing millions in continuing to make sure we stop violence before it happens on our streets. When we invest in summer programming, we give our young people not just a space to enjoy themselves but prevent crime from happening in our communities. Together, we will make sure to bring our summer to a close by ensuring our young people have all the resources needed to thrive and enjoy our city.”

“With this $2 million expansion of summer programming, the Adams administration continues its investment in public safety by ensuring that young people, especially those in historically underserved neighborhoods, have the necessary resources to thrive,” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “From Saturday Night Lights to Cornerstone and Beacon programs, these initiatives not only enrich lives, but also foster community trust and empower our youth to achieve their full potential. As we celebrate the “Summer of Possibility,” we are seizing every opportunity to build a safer, more vibrant city together.”

“When we expand our summer programming, we provide a space for young people to simply be themselves, have fun, and, most importantly, stay safe,” said Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Ana J. Almanzar. “I want to thank DYCD and our providers who have stepped up to answer the call in the final weeks of summer and helped us, again, deliver a record year of providing countless opportunities for our young people.”

“As one of the lead agencies of the Mayor’s Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, DYCD’s expansion of summer programming hours is vital to public safety. I know our Beacon, Cornerstone, and Saturday Night Lights partners, along with the NYPD Community Affairs Bureau, New York City Public Schools, and Cure Violence organizations, are more than up to the challenge,” said DYCD Commissioner Howard. “We are especially proud that extended hours are available in all five boroughs, including the six priority precincts with the highest levels of gun violence, where more resources will keep young people engaged during key times of the week. Mayor Adams has made it clear that public safety is a shared responsibility, and DYCD will remain vigilant in doing our part to keep all New Yorkers safe.”

“Major crime continues to drop in New York City because the men and women of the New York City Police Department are building trust and strengthening relationships with all the people we serve,” said NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban. “Shootings are down another 9 percent, and murders are down 11.5 percent since last year. One of the best tools we have to keep combating violence is our ability to engage young people in recreational activities, particularly during the warmer months. This is a ‘Summer of Possibility’ indeed, and the expanded programming announced today will make our city even safer tomorrow than it is today.”

“Our partnership with the Department of Youth and Community Development on the Cornerstone program creates a fantastic outlet for New Yorkers of all ages to visit New York City Housing Authority community centers to engage in positive activities, and access valuable resources and services,” said New York City Housing Authority Chief Executive Officer Lisa Bova-Hiatt. “We’re grateful to the Adams administration for making this investment in expanded summer programming and services, which will go a long way toward keeping the communities surrounding these centers safe and connected to a variety of amazing summer offerings.”

DYCD will be expanding programming and hours across select Saturday Night Lights, Cornerstone, and Beacon programs. Saturday Night Lights offers free high-quality sports programming at nearly 140 locations across the city, during a time of the week when crime historically spikes. The program aims to engage young people, build trust between law enforcement and communities, and help enable youth to develop the skills, knowledge, and meaningful relationships necessary to reach their fullest potential. Beacons are school-based community centers serving children aged six and older, and adults throughout the five boroughs. Cornerstone operates at 99 New York City Housing Authority community centers throughout the five boroughs, providing engaging, high-quality, year-round programs for adults and young people.

Expanded programming and services through the end of August include Saturday Night Lights now operating on Sundays and extended hours on Saturday from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Select Beacon and Cornerstone locations will have extended hours from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. For a full list of program sites, visit the DYCD Summer Safety Plan website.

From the largest-ever summer streets and open restaurants programs to expanded Summer Rising hours, new cooling centers, and investments in pools across the city, the Adams administration is continuing to ensure that there has never been a better time to enjoy summer in New York City. New Yorkers can visit the Summer of Possibility website for more information on free cultural and parks events, open beaches and pools, as well as hiring halls, apprenticeships, volunteer opportunities, and more.

MAYOR ADAMS CELEBRATES SHUT DOWN OF MORE THAN 750 ILLEGAL CANNABIS SHOPS SINCE LAUNCH OF “OPERATION PADLOCK TO PROTECT”

Multi-Agency Task Force Takes Rapid Action to Protect Communities with Focus on
Closing Illegal Cannabis Shops Near Schools, Houses of Worship, and Youth Facilities

Adams Administration Has Sealed 779 Illegal Locations, Issued Over $65 Million in
Civil Penalties, and Seized an Estimated $41 Million of Illegal Products

Follows Adams Administration’s Successful Advocacy for Legislative Action Taken by Governor Hochul
and State Legislature to Give Local Municipalities Enforcement Authority

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Sheriff Anthony Miranda, New York City Police Department (NYPD) Commissioner Edward A. Caban, and New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) Commissioner Vilda Vera Mayuga today celebrated milestone achievements in the city’s effective enforcement actions against illegal cannabis shops. Since launching “Operation Padlock to Protect” — a multi-agency task force made up of members from the Sheriff’s Office, the NYPD, and DCWP — the Adams administration has sealed a total of 779 shops and issued 41,502 counts of violations amounting to $65,671,487 in penalties. The city estimates it has already seized a total value of $41,443,792 in illegal products.

Over the month of July alone, “Operation Padlock to Protect” conducted several successful enforcement actions aimed at targeting the manufacturing, processing, and distribution networks of illegal cannabis suppliers across New York City. After conducting operations against , the task force delivered the biggest seizure of illegal products to date. These two operations alone resulted in a combined $8 million of illegal products being taken off city streets.

“In the three months since launching ‘Operation Padlock to Protect,’ our administration has delivered major results on a major quality of life and public safety issue,” said Mayor Adams. “To date, we have already sealed over 775 illegal cannabis shops, taken $41 million in illegal products off our streets, and issued over $65 million in violations, and these numbers continue to rise every day. For too long, illegal shops have contributed to a feeling that anything goes on our streets, while targeting our most vulnerable — including children — with dangerous, counterfeit products marketed as candy. But today, we are celebrating that this is no longer being tolerated and we are making huge gains to protect communities and usher in a legal cannabis market that will thrive. I thank Sheriff Miranda, Commissioner Caban, and Commissioner Mayuga for overseeing this highly successful enforcement operation. I also extend deep thanks to our partners in Albany, especially Governor Hochul, for giving us the legal authority we needed to stub out these illegal shops.”

“Earlier this year, I enacted new enforcement powers to quickly and permanently close the thousands of illegal cannabis retailers across New York selling potentially dangerous products — many of which are marketed to children and teens — and siphoning sales from hard-working, licensed store owners,” said New York Governor Kathy Hochul. “Today, I am pleased to join Mayor Adams and other officials to celebrate a milestone and recognize the enforcement teams who shut down more than 1,000 unlicensed stores statewide, bringing us closer to our goal of building the strongest, most equitable cannabis industry in the nation.”

“This is not just about an unlicensed cannabis shop selling weed; they are undermining the legal market — the people who follow the rules — by evading taxes, distributing untested products, and jeopardizing the safety of our neighborhoods,” said Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Philip Banks III. “More importantly, they distribute products that haven’t been tested. These products could have additive chemicals and other unknown substances that are harmful to our kids and the communities where these shops open up. In addition, these shops are dealing with cash, which act like magnets to crime and robberies. Our children, parents, and grandparents are walking by these shops during robberies gone wrong, which is why it’s much more than just an illegal cannabis shop.”

“We want to thank Mayor Adams for his leadership in securing the changes in the law that drives and empowers law enforcement action,” said Sheriff Miranda. “These unlicensed, illegal, and unregulated stores target underage children, endangering the health and safety of all our communities. We thank the many members of all the agencies that make up the Sheriff’s Joint Compliance Task Force for their dedicated work. We recognize the critical role our partners in the community play in identifying these illegal locations, ‘Operation Padlock to Protect’ will continue to respond to your complaints.”

“In all the work we do, the safety and quality of life of the people we serve remains our top priority,” said NYPD Commissioner Caban. “And enforcement against unlicensed and illegal cannabis shops is an important part of our shared public-safety mission. It is absolutely critical that industry regulations are enforced, that shop operators follow the rules, and that we keep these products out of the hands of our children. The New York City Police Department will continue to listen to concerned New Yorkers who demand safe neighborhoods free from these illegal operations, which put both our residents and the legal market at risk. The NYPD is proud to partner with the mayor and the New York City Sheriff’s Office in this important effort, and we thank them for their tireless dedication to public safety.”

“The sale of unlicensed cannabis products poses a danger to our neighbors, especially our children,” said DCWP Commissioner Mayuga. “We want all businesses to follow the law, but we won’t hesitate to take action against businesses illegally selling nicotine or cannabis products. Thank you to the mayor, and our partners in the Sheriff’s Office and at the NYPD, for collaborating with us on protecting the health and safety of our neighbors.”

“Operation Padlock to Protect” systematically conducts joint operations in neighborhoods across the five boroughs, which include inspections and follow-up inspections. When operators are ordered to be sealed, local NYPD precincts monitor those locations to ensure compliance and alert the Sheriff’s Office when violations of the seal order occur.

Record-high closures build on praise by New Yorkers, who join the administration in prioritizing decisive action against this public safety and quality of life nuisance. “Operation Padlock to Protect” is an example of the Adams administration’s efforts to double down on its commitment to swiftly shut down illegal operators, protect the city’s children, improve quality of life, and facilitate a safe and thriving legal cannabis market.

The legalization of cannabis is intended to create a new economy to emerge in New York state, while addressing the harmful impact of the “War on Drugs” on Black and Brown New Yorkers. For New York City’s new cannabis economy and justice-involved businesses to thrive, the city and state must protect the development of the legal market. To do so, the Adams administration launched Cannabis NYC under the New York City Department of Small Business Services to provide free resources and services for all New Yorkers interested in the cannabis industry. Cannabis NYC has engaged over 5,000 New Yorkers on its five borough “Lift Off! Cannabis NYC” public education, listening, and outreach tour and over 200 New Yorkers have participated in the FastTrac for Cannabis Entrepreneurs sessions, which connects legal cannabis business owners and entrepreneurs with free, high-quality training and advice delivered by leading voices in the legal cannabis industry.

The Adams administration is focused on addressing the quality-of-life issues New Yorkers care about even beyond the proliferation of illegal cannabis shops. Mayor Adams recently announced the city has seized 42,000 illegal mopeds, which contribute to disorder on city streets and further facilitate criminal behaviors. To address the miles of scaffolding that have taken over city streets for decades, the administration’s “Get Sheds Down” initiative has removed over 5,453 sheds and 55 percent of all permitted sidewalk sheds have been taken down since the initiative began in July 2023. And, to address retail theft, the administration announced a pilot program to enable businesses to voluntarily integrate their security cameras with their local NYPD precinct.

In 2023, Mayor Adams launched the Community Link initiative to bring together various city departments and agencies to work with the community and business leaders to address complex and often chronic community complaints that require a multi-agency response. Participating city agencies include:

DCWP
Fire Department of the City of New York
Mayor’s Office of Community Mental Health
New York City Department of Buildings
New York City Department of Environmental Protection
New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene
New York City Department of Homeless Services
New York City Department of Parks and Recreation
New York City Department of Sanitation
New York City Department of Small Business Services
New York City Department of Transportation
NYPD
Office of the Special Narcotics Prosecutor for the City of New York

Since its inception, Community Link has already convened five community improvement coalitions throughout the five boroughs. Over the last 18 months, these coalitions have responded to over 800 complaints and conducted over 600 operations to address quality of life concerns raised by the communities they serve.

“You cannot take a step in any direction in my Harlem district without encountering a smoke shop or glaring advertisement for cannabis, said New York State Senator Cordell Cleare. “As these shops try to lure kids with colorful packaging and tasty treats and flavors, I have a bill which attempts to educate our young people about the dangers. These places attract violence, but they open without any regard for their location – next to schools, senior centers, or residential neighborhoods. I support the closing of the illegal cannabis shops with Operation Padlock to Protect. Keeping our communities safe is always our number one priority.”

“I was proud to mobilize New Yorkers across all five boroughs to pass the SMOKEOUT Act in the state budget, authorizing the city to shut down illegal smoke shops for good,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Mayor Adams, Sheriff Miranda, and Commissioner Caban immediately sprung into action with the spectacularly successful ‘Operation Padlock to Protect.’ We have already closed over 750 unlicensed cannabis shops, almost half of all shops in New York City, in a matter of weeks. That is 750 fewer shops attracting armed robberies and selling to children, tons of unregulated cannabis off our streets, and tens of millions of dollars in more tax revenue to invest in communities. This demonstrates what we can achieve when all levels of government come together to address the issues facing New Yorkers.”

“Time after time, we have found illegal cannabis shops selling dangerous counterfeit products that are directly marketed to children,” said Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz. “These stores, which sell untaxed and unregulated products, are the source of countless community complaints. Legal vendors are making safety and compliance their top priority and they shouldn’t be undercut by lawbreakers. Shutting these unlicensed stores down is a team effort, and I thank our partners at the Governor’s Office, the Mayor’s Office, the Sheriff’s Office, and the NYPD for their commitment to removing these illegal businesses from our communities.”

“The unprecedented rise in unlicensed smoke shops has had a negative impact on our communities, affecting the safety of our residents through the distribution of untested and unregulated products while threatening the success of licensed cannabis entrepreneurs who have gone through the process to operate a legitimate business in our city,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “My hope is that today’s announcement under the ‘Operation Padlock to Protect’ initiative, sends a clear message that we are committed to protecting the health and well-being of our neighbors and that these unlicensed shops are not welcome in our neighborhoods. I want to thank Mayor Eric Adams, District Attorney Darcel Clark, New York City Sheriff Anthony Miranda, New York City Police Department Commissioner Edward Caban, and New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection Commissioner Vilda Vera Mayuga for addressing this urgent issue. We will continue to work with the Sheriff’s office, NYPD, community partners, and our colleagues in government to permanently close these illegal smoke shops.”

“Illegal cannabis shops peddle unregulated, low-quality products and undermine our efforts to establish a legal cannabis economy rooted in fairness and social justice,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “There is no place for illegal cannabis operations in Queens or anywhere in our city. I wholeheartedly support the efforts to take decisive action to shut down these illegal shops.”

“Illegal smoke shops continue to pose a problem and negatively impact the quality of life, not to mention safety concerns, in neighborhoods across Staten Island and the city,” said Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella. “We committed to improve the quality of life for our residents and took action. We thank Mayor Adams, Sheriff Miranda and Commissioner Caban for working with us to identify illegal smoke shops and shut them down.”

“Congratulations to the mayor for advocating for a state law that gave New York City the authority to padlock the illegal smoke shops,” said New York City Councilmember Gale Brewer. “With great cooperation from the Sheriff and his staff, as well as the personnel at DCWP, NYPD, and the New York City Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings, many of these illegal shops have closed. Our goal was also to support the legal dispensaries, and their business is way up with this effort. I hope that by the opening of school in September, ‘Operation Padlock to Protect’ will be so successful that students will not be able to find illegal cannabis. I was one of the first elected leaders to call for the sealing of these unlicensed cannabis businesses, and I look forward to continued updates and success regarding enforcement that is effective.”

MAYOR ADAMS SECURES AGREEMENT WITH UBER, LYFT TO PUT MONEY BACK INTO DRIVERS’ POCKETS BY DRASTICALLY REDUCING LOCKOUTS

Both Companies Agree on Plan to Increase Access Immediately,
Providing Much Needed Relief to Hardworking Drivers Who Keep NYC Moving

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) Commissioner David Do today announced that the city has secured agreements from rideshare companies Uber and Lyft to drastically reduce access restrictions — commonly known as “lockouts” — that have resulted in reduced earnings for New York City’s for-hire drivers since mid-May.

“Our Uber and Lyft drivers deliver us where we need to go, and now it’s time for us to deliver for them by helping them earn a decent wage,” said Mayor Adams. “We will always go to bat for working-class New Yorkers, and the deal we’ve secured today will put money in the pockets of hard-working drivers and help them continue to afford to live in the greatest city in the world.”

“We were the first city to ensure that rideshare drivers — who were making less than minimum wage before TLC passed its minimum pay rule — have a dignified, livable income,” said Deputy Mayor of Operations Meera Joshi. “We will never back down on minimum pay and we’ve made it clear to Uber and Lyft that we want to see them responsibly managing their driver pools without widespread access restrictions. This agreement gets both companies in position to cease restrictions as soon as possible, beginning with Uber.”

“Our priority is to provide relief to the city’s drivers as quickly as possible, without having to go through a lengthy and likely contentious rulemaking process that could prolong their suffering. This deal is the shortest possible path towards that relief,” said TLC Commissioner Do. “At the same time, we have prepared a robust rule package designed to disincentivize access restrictions, and we are absolutely prepared to introduce that should it become necessary.”

New York City’s for-hire vehicle drivers were the first drivers in the nation to receive mandated minimum pay, which guarantees that drivers get paid for time spent between trips. It also discourages rideshare companies from flooding the market with too many drivers. Additionally, the Adams administration has implemented the nation’s first minimum pay rules for delivery workers, which resulted in a 64 percent increase in pay when comparing the first quarter of 2024 to the first quarter of 2023.

Under today’s agreement, Uber will immediately begin phasing out access restrictions for drivers using its platform, with the goal of ending them entirely by Labor Day if Lyft maintains an annual company utilization rate (the time drivers spend with a passenger) of at least 50 percent — a figure that is reduced when companies like Uber and Lyft onboard too many drivers. As part of the agreement, both companies will also pause onboarding for new drivers, as this helps to increase utilization rates and allows more work for existing drivers. Lyft will minimize lockouts as the onboarding pause continues.

Supporting the city’s taxi and for-hire drivers has been a cornerstone of Mayor Adams’ administration. Shortly after Mayor Adams assumed office, the administration launched the Medallion Relief Program Plus, which has provided $468 million in debt relief for over 2,000 medallion owners. In order to secure a pay increase for taxi drivers, in late 2022, the TLC passed the first taxi meter fare increase in 10 years. The Adams administration also successfully secured pay increases for Uber and Lyft drivers in March 2023 and February 2024. In tandem with the Green Rides Initiative — which requires that all rideshare vehicles be zero-emissions or wheelchair accessible by 2030 — the administration also lifted the licensing pause on electric vehicle licenses, allowing nearly 10,000 drivers to own their small business and save thousands of dollars in rental costs.

“This agreement will allow us to immediately reduce and aim to soon eliminate platform access restrictions for existing drivers,” said Josh Gold, senior director of policy and communications, Uber.

“Lyft supports an environment that allows New York City drivers to earn whenever and however they want while driving on the Lyft platform,” said Megan Sirjane-Samples, director of public policy, Lyft. “We never want to enact supply controls, and we will continue to work with TLC in the best interest of drivers.”

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING: LABOR LEADERS PRAISE MAYOR ADAMS’ NOMINATION OF RANDY MASTRO AS CITY’S NEXT CORPORATION COUNSEL

Here’s what labor leaders are saying:

“Randy Mastro is again the unquestioned best candidate for corporation counsel as the city endures its current challenges,” said Andrew Ansbro, president, United Firefighters Association of Greater New York. “He has dedicated his career to public service and fighting for justice on the behalf of the residents of New York City, and you will not find a better candidate for the position than Randy Mastro.”

“I offer my full-throated support on behalf of the 25,000 members of Teamsters Local 237 for the nomination of Randy Mastro to become the next New York City corporation counsel,” said Gregory Floyd, president, Teamsters Local 237. “Mr. Mastro’s credentials are unassailable and his selection only natural, but it should also be noted that we firmly believe the mayor should have the unconstrained right to appoint the city’s chief legal officer — particularly one of Mr. Mastro’s caliber.”

“Randy Mastro has amassed a wealth of experience over his distinguished career including through his service as a federal prosecutor and prior service to the City of New York. He is knowledgeable in the workings of city and local government and has represented clients in many high-profile cases. There is no doubt that his knowledge and experience will be a valuable asset to our city’s government,” said Gary LaBarbera, president, Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York. “I believe that he truly has the best interests of the city in mind and would be effective in representing the city’s interests as corporation counsel.”

“Randy Mastro has a long record of dedicated public service garnering praise for his work in the U.S. Attorney’s Office and subsequently in City Hall,” said Harry Nespoli, president, Uniformed Sanitationmen’s Association Local 831. “For sanitation in particular, Randy showed a keen understanding of the need for worker protection in his role as deputy mayor and as chair of the Trade Waste Commission. I support his nomination as corporation counsel.”

“We look forward to working with Randy Mastro on the many legal issues facing the city,” said Michael Mulgrew, president, United Federation of Teachers.

“I have worked with Randy Mastro. He is a good choice for New York City’s Corporation Counsel,” said Randy Weingarten, president, American Federation of Teachers. He is smart, and fair.”

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING: FORMER FEDERAL PROSECUTORS AND GOVERNMENT ATTORNEYS PRAISE MAYOR ADAMS’ NOMINATION OF RANDY MASTRO AS CITY’S NEXT CORPORATION COUNSEL

Here’s what former federal prosecutors and government attorneys are saying:

“One of the most sought-after and talented legal minds in the country, Randy Mastro has dedicated his life to public service, good governance, and fighting tirelessly for justice,” said Loretta Lynch, former Attorney General of the United States. “I cannot think of anyone more qualified for this position and I know that he will be a fierce advocate for the people of the City of New York.”

“Randy is an inspired choice for corporation counsel,” said Mary Jo White, former United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York. “His brilliance as a lawyer is matched by his deep love for New York City. “He works constructively and creatively to bring people together to achieve solutions. We would all be very fortunate to have Randy’s talents and dedication put to work for the public good.”

“I cannot think of a more qualified person to be New York City’s corporation counsel,” said Jeh Johnson, former Secretary of Homeland Security in the Obama Administration. “I have known Randy for 35 years since our days together as Assistant United States Attorneys. Randy is a committed public servant who has promoted the public good in a variety of roles — federal prosecutor fighting organized crime, deputy mayor, vice chair of the Legal Aid Society, and chair of the revered good government organization, Citizens Union. Randy is one of the leaders of the bar in this city. He is well known in the community as a principled person of stature and achievement. New Yorkers are exceedingly fortunate that Randy, at this stage of his career, is willing to depart from a successful private law practice to return to public service as corporation counsel.”

“While I am not a New Yorker, I have recently come to know Randy as a partner in my law firm,” said Sally Q. Yates, former Deputy U.S. Attorney General in the Obama administration and former Acting U.S. Attorney General. “I’ve been struck not only by his legal acumen, which is second to none, but also by his indefatigable commitment to fighting for good. Randy is drawn to public service for all the right reasons, and the people of New York would have a tenacious legal champion in Randy.”

“Randy Mastro is an exceptional choice for this important and challenging legal role,” said James Comey, former director, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), former Deputy U.S. Attorney General, and former U.S. attorney, Southern District of New York (SDNY). “I have known Randy for nearly four decades since we served together in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the SDNY. He has the personal character, legal chops, and leadership skills to be an outstanding corporation counsel for the City of New York. He is strong, independent, and speaks his mind, which is so important in government.”

“I am very pleased to support Randy Mastro’s nomination to become the city’s next corporation counsel,” said Louis Freeh, former director, FBI and federal judge, Southern District of New York. “Randy is an outstanding public servant and excellent attorney who will bring great value to the mayor and people of New York City. When I was Deputy U.S. Attorney in Manhattan, Randy and I worked closely to eliminate corruption and organized crime influence in one of the nation’s largest labor unions. Randy’s legal skills are matched with his integrity and respect for the rule of law and will be a great corporation counsel.”

“Randy Mastro is an inspired selection to be corporation counsel. He is a superb litigator and gifted trial lawyer with great judgment, who has a real commitment to public service and is willing to make the financial sacrifice to serve,” said Gary Naftalis, senior partner, Kramer Levin; board member, Citizens Union; former federal prosecutor. “I’ve been privileged to know Randy for decades, going back to when he was an assistant United States attorney in the Southern District of New York and know firsthand what a special lawyer he is. I also know firsthand from serving with him on the Citizens Union Board over the past several years how committed he is to good government, public service, and the City of New York.”

“Randy Mastro’s breadth of experience as a public servant, federal prosecutor, and private attorney make him a great nominee to be the next corporation counsel for New York City,” said David N. Kelley, former U.S. attorney, Southern District of New York. “In private practice, he has used his talents to fight against government overreach and promote social justice. During his time as a federal prosecutor, he upheld the public trust without fear or favor. Having someone of his caliber serve in this position is a major win for the residents of New York.”

“Randy is exceptionally well-qualified to serve in this important legal position,” said Alan Vinegrad, senior counsel, Covington & Burling and former U.S. Attorney, Eastern District of New York. “I’ve litigated against and alongside Randy, when we were both federal prosecutors and in private practice, most recently, in connection with the defense of Chevron and two of its senior lawyers, one of whom I represented, who were falsely charged in Ecuador but later exonerated. I’ve encountered few lawyers as brilliant, dedicated, hard-working, passionate — and successful — as Randy. His dedication to public service and other worthy causes is well-known. His advocacy skills are first-rate. In the Chevron matter, for example, Randy’s extraordinary, years-long efforts were instrumental in exposing one of the largest litigation frauds ever — a multi-billion-dollar fraudulent Ecuadorian judgment against Chevron that was convincingly proven to be the product of corruption and fraud, ultimately resulting in the U.S. lawyer who perpetrated it being disbarred and going to prison. I’m confident that Randy Mastro will be an excellent corporation counsel, as we will all benefit from his intellect, experience, judgment, and dedication to the best interests of our city.”

“I’ve known Randy Mastro for about 40 years. He is a first-rate lawyer of the highest integrity, and he possesses a deep commitment to public service,” said John Gleeson, former federal prosecutor and Eastern District of New York federal district judge. “He would bring to the role of corporation counsel all of the qualities we should look for in the person who occupies that extremely important position in city government.”

“I have known Randy Mastro for decades as an excellent lawyer with a deep commitment to public service. Throughout the years he has been highly regarded in the New York legal community as a fierce advocate for his clients, which will bring enormous value to the citizens of New York City,” said Alan Levine, senior counsel, Cooley LLP; president, Legal Aid Society, and former federal prosecutor. “The corporation counsel position is a perfect role for him that brings together his dedication to the public good with his skills as a litigator and counselor.”

“Randy is an extraordinary lawyer, advocate and leader, who will fight for all that is important for our great city,” said Barry H. Berke, partner, Kramer Levin and former special counsel to the Judiciary Committee of the U.S. House of Representatives. “He has the experience, strategic judgment, and moral compass that will make him a great corporation counsel. New York City will be very well served by Randy’s decision to return to public service for this critical role.”

“Randy Mastro is one of the finest and most public-spirited lawyers that I know,” said Norman Eisen, Esq., special counsel for ethics and government reform to President Obama; co-counsel, House Judiciary Committee; co-founder, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington. “Randy is deeply respected in New York and across the country for his skill, his integrity, and his commitment to a cause to which I have dedicated my professional career: good government and protecting our democracy. That is evident by his distinguished tenure as the chair of Citizens Union, but it is a thread that runs through his entire professional life. There could not be a finer choice to become the city’s top lawyer.”

“I first met Randy Mastro a decade ago in the toughest of times when I was Governor Christie’s counsel and the ‘Bridgegate’ scandal had just broken in the news media, and I am so grateful to have worked with him then and since, because he is one of the best lawyers I have ever known,” said Chris Porrino, head of litigation, Lowenstein Sandler; former New Jersey Attorney General; former counsel to New Jersey Governor Chris Christie. “When we first met, I knew that Randy was a lifelong Democrat, having had extensive experience in high profile matters involving local, state and federal government. What I did not know but came to learn, as we worked closely together over the ensuing months, was that Randy is a fearless and extraordinarily effective attorney. Randy worked tirelessly in defense of the Office of the Governor responding to dozens of subpoenas and government requests. Over the span of a few short months, Randy led a team of lawyers and completed a “top to bottom” investigation into all legal and factual aspects of the ‘Bridgegate’ matter. He reached conclusions that ultimately stood the test of time, because three subsequent government investigations reached the same factual conclusions, and the U.S. Supreme Court reached the same legal conclusions. Knowing his work would be controversial, no matter what conclusions he reached, Randy put politics to the side, and followed the facts and the law. If New York City wants a fearless and brilliant advocate of impeccable integrity as its corporation counsel, it would be wise to choose Randy Mastro.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES BACK-TO-BACK RECORD YEARS FOR CREATING AND CONNECTING NEW YORKERS TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING

Adams Administration Breaks Record for Financing Most Affordable New Construction, Housing for Formerly Homeless New Yorkers, and Permanently Supportive Housing

Record Number of Homeless New Yorkers Moved Into Permanent Housing Using CityFHEPS Housing Vouchers, and Permanently Affordable Housing for Formerly Homeless

Historic Year Comes as Adams Administration Addresses Housing Crisis with “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity” Proposal to Produce as Many as 108,850 New Homes and Nearly 50,000 Housing Units From Neighborhood Planning Efforts Over 15 Years

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced back-to-back record-breaking years for producing and connecting New Yorkers to new, affordable homes. For the second year in a row, the city has produced the most supportive housing and housing for formerly homeless New Yorkers. As the city faces a generational housing shortage and an affordability crisis, the administration, this year, financed the most new affordable homes in history. Following decades of disinvestment, the city also converted 3,678 New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) apartments into newly renovated residences. The Adams administration additionally moved a record number of homeless New Yorkers into permanent housing through the highest usage of City Fighting Homelessness and Eviction Prevention Supplement (CityFHEPS) housing vouchers, affordable housing through the city’s housing lottery program, and placing formerly homeless households into permanently-affordable housing. In total, city agencies financed a combined 28,944 affordable and public housing units in Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 through new construction and preservation initiatives.

“Over back-to-back years, our administration has faced a housing crisis head-on by building and connecting more New Yorkers than ever to affordable housing,” said Mayor Adams. “These record-breaking years are the result of countless city agencies coming together to make sure all New Yorkers — from our formerly homeless to families at the edge of poverty to those just struggling to make ends meet — have access to safe, stable housing. While today we celebrate our progress, tomorrow we get back to work and aim even higher. ‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity’ is another tool we have to produce over 108,000 new homes that our city needs and deserves in the next 15 years. Today, I’m calling on all of our partners in government to come together and say ‘yes” to helping the city build its way out of this crisis.”

“I am proud that for the second consecutive year, the Adams administration has set record-breaking milestones in creating and connecting New Yorkers to affordable housing,” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “Our administration has achieved unprecedented levels of new supportive housing, while also delivering more affordable housing construction than ever before in our city’s history. We are committed to ensuring every New Yorker has a place to call home and we will continue to use every tool at our disposal to address this generational housing crisis.”

“Our housing agencies, with the mayor as our biggest housing champion, have made incredible progress in addressing our housing crisis over the last fiscal year,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “Faced with our near-zero housing vacancy, Department of Housing Preservation and Development, Housing Development Corporation, NYCHA, and Department of Social Services heeded the call and produced historic results. From the record amount of affordable new construction and supportive housing, to NYCHA’s work with tenants in developing their communities, this has been an enormous team effort. By building and preserving record amounts of affordable housing year after year, this administration is demonstrating its unwavering commitment to ensuring that all New Yorkers can thrive in our city.”

“Every New Yorker deserves a permanent home,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “Since the start of our administration, we’ve made progress towards that vision by connecting more New Yorkers than ever to supportive housing, shortening the path between shelter and stable housing, and increasing the number of people accessing CityFHEPS, among other items. Over just the last two years, in sum, we’ve produced more affordable housing and connected more New Yorkers to housing supports than any time in our city’s history. While we continue to build more housing, we’re bringing relief to New Yorkers in need today, and making strides to tackle the structural challenges the city faces with a 1.4 percent vacancy rate, and more than half of New Yorkers being considered rent burdened. We will continue to deliver support as we fight for long term change to make our city more affordable for all.”

“Today’s announcement reflects the power of city government to directly support working families and young adults by addressing the affordable housing crisis,” said Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Ana J. Almanzar. “By using all of the tools at our disposal, the Adams administration is immediately helping New Yorkers today and laying the foundation for lower housing costs for future generations.” 

“As New Yorkers continue to confront the unprecedented housing demand, our commitment to creating quality, accessible, and affordable homes remains unwavering,” said New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) Commissioner Adolfo Carrion Jr. “Today’s announcement demonstrates our effective efforts to meet that challenge with ingenuity, creativity, and empathy. Through the dedication of our team and our sister agencies, our collective work has resulted in an impressive surge of new homes and successful housing placements that will help lift up and steady communities across our city. Our dedication to equitable development and preserving and expanding affordable housing options underscores our belief that every New Yorker deserves a safe, stable place to call home. Through strategic partnerships, innovative approaches, and record-level investments in our housing budget, our administration is transforming the city’s housing landscape to make sure it is advancing the needs of individuals and families of all backgrounds and incomes, ensuring that our efforts today lay the foundation for further success.” 

“Much of NYCHA’s work is focused on using every tool at our disposal to deliver much-needed renovations to our housing stock — in the face of decades of federal disinvestment and mounting physical needs — to improve the quality of life for the New Yorkers we serve,” said NYCHA Chief Executive Officer Lisa Bova-Hiatt. “We’re very proud of the work we’ve accomplished, working in close partnership with empowered NYCHA residents over the course of the last city fiscal year. During this time, we conducted NYCHA’s first-ever votes at Nostrand Houses and Bronx River Addition, with residents electing to join the Trust in both cases, unlocking hundreds of millions of dollars to be invested across both campuses. We also reached a pivotal milestone with the PACT, having surpassed 20,000 units converted to Project-Based Section 8 through the program, representing an impressive $5.68 billion in capital repairs to the homes of NYCHA residents across the five boroughs. We thank the Adams administration for their steadfast commitment to housing affordability in New York City, their ongoing partnership, and their continued prioritization of NYCHA residents.”

“With another year of record affordable housing production and connections to housing, the Adams administration is again demonstrating its commitment to addressing the city’s housing crisis head-on while supporting our vulnerable and working-class communities,” said New York City Department of Social Services (DSS) Commissioner Molly Wasow Park. “We continue to prioritize connections to housing by expanding access to subsidies and streamlining related processes. These efforts have allowed us to, again, significantly increase the number of households exiting shelter to permanent housing, and, for the second consecutive year, helped us connect a record number of New Yorkers to affordable, permanent housing with city funded CityFHEPS vouchers. While the data shows we are on the right path, we know there is more work to be done, and we need every level of government to come together and provide the resources necessary to create a more equitable and affordable city.”

“From its beginning, our administration has not only focused on the creation and preservation of affordable housing, but on what it takes to get New Yorkers from all communities better access to affordable housing — achieving those goals are major takeaways from today’s housing production announcement,” said New York City Executive Director for Housing Leila Bozorg. “We are delivering record numbers of new affordable housing construction, as well as housing for the homeless, those in need of supportive housing, seniors, and extremely low-income New Yorkers. Meanwhile, we’re connecting a record number of New Yorkers, and homeless people specifically, into affordable housing. With new tools to create affordable housing from Albany, new capital in the adopted budget, and our efforts to build a little more housing in every neighborhood through ‘City of Yes,’ we’re only going to build on this success.”

“Today’s announcement marks significant progress in addressing the city’s affordable housing crisis,” said New York City Housing Development Corporation (HDC) President Eric Enderlin. “I am proud of the collaboration of the many city agencies involved in implementing Mayor Adams’s housing blueprint, including HDC, HPD, NYCHA, and DSS. Together, we have delivered a record number of new affordable homes to New Yorkers and brought essential new investment to preserve our city’s public housing stock. HDC looks forward to building upon this momentum to further expand its affordable housing production in the coming year, while continuing to advocate for additional resources in order to meet the affordability challenges faced by our city.”

“New Yorkers feel the impacts of our housing crisis every day, with rising rents and limited inventory making it harder for residents to stay in their homes and communities. That’s why we’re working to tackle this crisis head-on by making record investments in affordable housing and advancing the most pro-housing zoning proposal in New York City history,” said New York City Department of City Planning (DCP) Director Dan Garodnick. “By working across government, we can create the homes New Yorkers need and ensure there are affordable, stable housing options in every neighborhood.”

“New York City had another banner year in creating affordable housing and addressing the housing crisis,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) President and CEO Andrew Kimball. “As NYCEDC works to advance housing initiatives throughout the city, including at Willets Point and on the North Shore of Staten Island, I applaud Mayor Adams and the entire administration for doubling down on their support for building housing and making New York City a great place to live, work, learn, play, and do business.”

“One of our most pressing missions here in city government is the promotion and facilitation of affordable housing development,” said New York City Department of Buildings Commissioner Jimmy Oddo. “Since day one, Mayor Adams and our administration have been focused on cutting red tape and opening up development opportunities, to get as many safe affordable units into the construction pipeline as possible, and that work is getting results for New Yorkers with record numbers for the second year in a row.”

“This year’s record-breaking delivery of affordable housing is a direct result of our city’s all of government approach, including financial commitments, legislative action, and administrative efficiency,” said Get Stuff Built Executive Director Rob Holbrook. “We continue to create more tools and remove barriers to affordable housing production, including removing outdated exclusionary zoning rules, that will continue to drive more affordable housing production for future New Yorkers and secure housing for those that need it now.”

“Expanding affordable housing options helps older adults manage the high cost of living in New York City, making it one of the primary age-inclusive policies we can pursue. These efforts ensure older New Yorkers can continue to stay in the city and in the communities they helped build,” said New York City Department for the Aging Commissioner Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez. “We celebrate the city’s record-breaking achievements in affordable housing under the leadership of Mayor Adams, and look forward to continuing this vital work and witnessing the positive impact it will have on everyone who continues to call New York City home.”  

“Today’s critical announcement is welcome news for the countless New Yorkers who are all too familiar with the struggle to find quality affordable housing,” said New York City Councilmember Rafael Salamanca, Jr, chair, Committee on Land Use. “The demand for safe, affordable housing is an issue that my district has experienced firsthand, and it’s an issue that I’ve made a pillar of my tenure in the City Council. Last year alone, the 17th Council District created more new, affordable housing than 26 council districts combined, which is more than half of the City Council. In the midst of one of the worst housing crises the city has experienced, the record-setting FY24 numbers the Adams administration has overseen, on the back of an equally impressive FY23 haul, sends a symbolic message to New Yorkers everywhere: when faced with great adversity, New York City is answering the call! I thank Mayor Adams and his team for understanding the severity of the issue, and as chair of the Committee on Land Use, I look forward to continuing to work with the administration on behalf of the City Council to promote the production of new, affordable housing.”

Building a Historic Number of Affordable Housing

As New York City faces a 1.4 percent rental vacancy rate, with half of all New York renters paying more than 30 percent of their income in rent, the Adams administration is delivering them a more affordable city by building a record amount of affordable housing to meet the moment. HPD and HDC financed 25,266 affordable homes, with a record 14,706 in newly constructed homes, 2,155 in permanent supportive housing units and 4,085 units of housing for formerly homeless New Yorkers. Additionally, the Adams administration produced 5,401 421-A standalone affordable units and 3,255 permanently-affordable inclusionary housing — both the most in the city’s history. HPD produced 2,130 homeownership units, more than double from the previous fiscal year. Finally, the city produced the second most homes serving older New Yorkers, as well as the second most city-subsidized units for extremely low-income New Yorkers.

Connecting a Record Number of New Yorkers to New, Affordable Housing

City agencies broke records connecting New Yorkers to new, critically-needed affordable housing in FY24 as well.

The Adams administration is continuing to prioritize transitioning homeless New Yorkers from streets, subways, and homeless shelters into stable, permanent housing. In FY24, the city built the highest ever count of supportive homes and homes for the homeless in the city’s history, and increased production of housing for the formerly homeless by 15 percent.

More New Yorkers are being connected to affordable housing at a faster rate. HPD approved 9,550 households for new housing lotteries, connected 3,990 homeless households to permanently affordable homes, and marketed a record 315 housing lotteries through Housing Connect. HPD exceeded its fiscal year completions target by more than 40 percent, completing a total 21,159 units of affordable housing.

Finally, DSS helped 16,902 households move out of shelter and into permanent housing over FY24, 12,526 of which were placed into subsidized permanent housing — a more than 20 percent increase over FY23. DSS had back-to-back record-breaking years connecting New Yorkers to housing using CityFHEPS vouchers.

Empowering NYCHA Residents and Unlocking Billions

The Adams administration has worked with NYCHA to directly engage with residents and empower them to decide on the future of their developments.

NYCHA conducted the first two historic votes in which residents were able to have a say in the future by deciding whether to join the Public Housing Preservation Trust, the Permanent Affordability Commitment Together (PACT) program, or remain in Section 9 housing. Residents of the fir

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES CITY HALL, MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS TO BE LIT RED, YELLOW, WHITE, BLUE, AND GREEN TO HONOR DISABILITY PRIDE MONTH

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced that City Hall and several other municipal buildings will be lit red, yellow, white, blue, and green tonight in honor of Disability Pride Month, which celebrates the achievements and promotes the visibility and awareness of the disability community. Disability Pride Month is celebrated every July to mark the passage of the historic Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) passed on July 26, 1990. This year marks the 34^th anniversary of the ADA.

“The signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act into law 34 years ago marked a monumental step forward for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities,” said Mayor Adams. “Today, we honor the spirit of the ADA and its profound impact on our society. Here in New York City, we are committed to building a city that is accessible, inclusive, and equitable for all. From fostering inclusive employment opportunities to improving infrastructure, we continue to break down barriers and create a city where everyone can thrive.”

“On this ADA anniversary, we honor the historic commitment and ongoing efforts of Mayor Adams, as well as all of our city agency partners and community stakeholders by investing in employment opportunities and a safe and accessible infrastructure to create an inclusive and equitable city for all,” said New York City Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities Commissioner Christina Curry. “Lighting City Hall and other municipal buildings in honor of Disability Pride Month is a vibrant display that underscores New York City’s dedication to the disability community.”

“Talent is our city’s greatest asset, and on the 34^th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, our city has never been better positioned to uplift and enhance the lives of New Yorkers with disabilities,” said New York City Mayor’s Office of Talent and Workforce Development Executive Director Abby Jo Sigal. “New York City has always been a shining beacon of hope, and, in the last year, we have doubled down on our commitments to ensure the disabled community has access to employment and economic opportunities that provide a living wage and dignity so they can pursue their dreams.”

In addition to City Hall, the following city buildings will be lit in the disability pride colors at sundown:

Bronx County Courthouse: 851 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY 10451
Brooklyn Borough Hall: 209 Joralemon St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
The David N. Dinkins Manhattan Municipal Building: 1 Centre Street, New York, NY 10007
Queens Borough Hall: 120-55 Queens Blvd, Kew Gardens, NY 11424
Staten Island Borough Hall: 10 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island, NY 10301

MAYOR ADAMS AWARDS KEY TO THE CITY OF NEW YORK TO LEGENDARY NEW YORK MUSICIAN AND PHILANTHROPIST BILLY JOEL

Key to the City of New York Celebration Comes as Joel Ends Historic Monthly Residency at Madison Square Garden

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams last night awarded a Key to the City of New York to New York musician and philanthropist Billy Joel for his decades of contribution to popular music and service to the city. From his iconic songs that serve as anthems for the city to his extensive contribution to philanthropic causes, Joel’s influence and dedication to New York is unparalleled. More than 10 years after being named Madison Square Garden’s first-ever music franchise, Joel last night concluded his record-breaking monthly residency with his 150th lifetime performance at the venue.

“For more than half a century, Billy Joel has put us all in a New York State of Mind, telling timeless tales about weary musicians, love and loss, and the ever-changing political times,” said Mayor Adams. “A native New Yorker, Billy is one of the most celebrated musicians of all-time and turned one of the world’s most iconic venues, Madison Square Garden, into his second home, playing monthly for more than 10 years, contributing to a record-breaking 150 lifetime shows. Offstage, Billy has also left a lasting legacy, starting Charity Begins at Home to lend a helping hand to those in need across the tri-state area. Today, I am honored to celebrate the Piano Man himself — Billy Joel — with a Key to the City of New York.”

When presented with the Key to the City backstage at MSG prior to the final residency show, Joel said, “This is a dream come true. It really is.”

Joel is one of best-selling artists of all time, having sold more than 150 million records worldwide. Born in the Bronx, Joel is known for his versatile piano playing and storytelling lyrics. Over his illustrious career as a singer-songwriter and pianist, he has received numerous accolades, including six Grammy Awards, an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and a Tony Award for his contributions to Broadway’s “Movin’ Out” Musical. His timeless hits, such as “Piano Man,” “Uptown Girl,” “New York State of Mind,” and “We Didn’t Start the Fire,” have left a lasting mark on the music industry and continue to resonate with audiences all across the globe even decades after their release.

Along with music, Joel has made significant contributions to philanthropic causes, including Farm Aid, Elton John AIDS Foundation, GRAMMY Foundation, UNICEF, and countless others. In 1978, Joel established Charity Begins At Home to support charities in the tri-state area that are dedicated to combatting child abuse, domestic violence, autism, and cancer. In addition to his residency run, Joel has also performed alongside other music greats at two of Madison Square Garden’s most extraordinary benefit concerts — “12-12-12, The Concert for Sandy Relief,” which raised awareness and money for those affected by Hurricane Sandy, and “The Concert for New York City,” which was held to help aid 9/11 victims and heroes.

MAYOR ADAMS’ STATEMENT ON CHARTER REVISION COMMISSION’S UNANIMOUS APPROVAL OF BALLOT PROPOSALS

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today released the following statement after the commissioners of the Charter Revision Commission unanimously voted to approve ballot proposals for the upcoming November election:

“On behalf of 8.3 million New Yorkers, I want to thank the distinguished members of this Charter Revision Commission for volunteering their service to our city. This dedicated group of veteran civil servants, former elected officials, community activists, and religious and business leaders brought their vast experience and diverse voices to the table to ensure that our city is working as efficiently as possible for all its residents and delivering a city government that reflects the needs and aspirations of millions of working-class New Yorkers.

“This commission carefully examined our city’s charter, heard from residents across all five boroughs, and approved thoughtful ballot proposals regarding cleaner streets, fiscal responsibility, public safety, capital planning, and minority- and women-owned business enterprises that their fellow New Yorkers will have the opportunity to vote on when they flip their ballots this November.”

MAYOR ADAMS, CHANCELLOR BANKS, MTA CHAIR & CEO LIEBER LAUNCH EXPANDED STUDENT OMNY CARDS

Student OMNY Cards, Replacing Student MetroCards, Now Valid 24 Hours a Day, Seven Days a Week, All Year

Eligible Students to Have Four Free Trips Daily, Up From Three

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Public Schools Chancellor David C. Banks, and Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Chair and CEO Janno Lieber today announced updates that will make it easier and more affordable for eligible students to get to and from school and after-school activities via public transportation. Starting this upcoming 2024-2025 school year, students will receive Student OMNY cards, instead of the MetroCards that have been distributed citywide to students since 1997. The new Student OMNY cards will be valid 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, with up to four free rides a day. These changes will significantly expand flexibility for student travel, as students were previously limited to only three free rides each day from only 5:30 AM to 8:30 PM, and the cards could only be used on days when the student’s school was open for class.

“These expanded student OMNY cards are a gamechanger for families across New York City, particularly for working-class families that need just a little more help to afford our city — families where older siblings pick their younger brothers and sisters up from school, or where kids have after-school and summer jobs to help make ends meet,” said Mayor Adams. “This builds on the work we’ve done to make our city more accessible, particularly for young people and low-income New Yorkers. From our subways, to our ferries, to our greenways, we’re making it easier and more affordable to get around New York City.”

“I’m thrilled about the launch of student OMNY cards because expanding access to public transit means more and more students will have opportunities to explore our city and experience all that New York has to offer,” said New York City Public Schools Chancellor Banks. “I’m grateful to our partners at the MTA and across the city for making this possible for our students.”

“Across its diverse neighborhoods and communities, New York City inspires and teaches. Our city is one of the best classrooms in the world. And now, as part of the city’s broader switch to OMNY, New York’s kids have more and better access to it,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations and MTA Board Member Meera Joshi. “Together, the city and its world-class public transportation system are making New York City just a little more livable for the families that call it home. Our kids deserve 24/7 access to a 24/7 city, and now they’re getting it.”

“The student OMNY card program makes it even more convenient for kids to use the public transit system, teaching them how indispensable it is to New York City,” said MTA Chair and CEO Lieber. “With help from Mayor Adams and New York City Public Schools, students can learn the value of the transit system and ensure they continue to tap to ride past graduation.”

“Providing students with tools to use public transit seamlessly teaches them that the system is easy, efficient, and cost effective,” said MTA Chief Customer Officer Shanifah Rieara. “New York City students have busy schedules and we’re making it as easy as possible for them to navigate their schoolwork and activities with more rides all year round.”

“Subways and buses are the best way to get to school, sports, extracurriculars, internships, jobs, and more,” said New York City Transit Interim President Demetrius Crichlow. “With extended hours and more taps at their disposal, we look forward to more and more students tapping to ride.”

Student OMNY cards will be valid on the MTA’s subway lines; on local, limited, and Select buses; on the Staten Island Railway; on the Roosevelt Island Tram; and on Hudson Rail link; and will include free transfers from one mode to another. Students will also now keep the same card for the entire year, through the summer. The expanded benefits provide the foundation for New York City students to learn how to utilize the public transit system and build a culture of tapping.

The cards will be distributed to students at the start of the school year by each individual school across the five boroughs. In addition to the cards, students will also receive promotional flyers outlining the benefits of the enhanced program. The MTA and New York City Public Schools will work together to evaluate and promote card usage across school districts. More information about Student OMNY cards is available online.

This announcement builds on the Adams administration’s efforts to make getting around New York City more accessible and affordable, particularly for young people and low-income New Yorkers. In the Fiscal Year 2025 Adopted Budget, the administration partnered with the City Council to invest an additional $20.7 million in “Fair Fares NYC,” expanding eligibility for half-price fares to people making 145 percent of the Federal Poverty Level. The budget also included $11 million to provide free MetroCards to Summer Youth Employment Program participants, who — thanks to the Adams administration’s efforts — are also eligible for free two-month Citi Bike memberships. In 2023, Mayor Adams launched a historic greenway expansion to build 40 new miles of protected bike infrastructure in the outer boroughs, bringing safer, greener transportation options to the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island. In 2022, Mayor Adams unveiled NYC Ferry Forward, which created a discount program similar to Fair Fares in which seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income riders pay reduced fares for ferry rides.

“I applaud the MTA’s initiative to extend the OMNY program to a broader audience, including all New York City students starting this school year,” said New York State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud. “This efficient and user-friendly fare payment system will enhance convenience for student commuters and will be a much-needed support to improve school attendance.”

“In this pivotal moment, New York City is not just updating a program but transforming the daily commutes of our students,” said New York State Senator Robert Jackson. “I applaud the collaboration of the mayor’s office, the Department of Education, and the MTA in enhancing access and ensuring no student is left behind. With the Student OMNY cards, every trip becomes a pathway to potential, embedding seamless travel into the fabric of our students’ academic experiences and broadening their horizons every day of the year.”

“Hundreds of thousands of our children rely on public transit to commute to school and it’s time we put them on the express train to success,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “We will make their commute the most convenient and accessible it has ever been with the implementation of Student OMNY cards, combined with the expansion from three free rides a day to four. These OMNY cards will allow students to ride our world class transit system to earn a world class education, while also providing them extra rides for enriching extracurricular activities. I am proud to partner with the mayor and MTA chair to make public transportation affordable and accessible for the next generation.”

“Since its founding, our Youth Council has been dedicated to expanding the number of hours during which students can use their MetroCards to commute to school, internships, sports and other school-related activities,” said New York State Assemblymember Harvey Epstein. “For far too many students, the status quo prevented the use of student MetroCards on nights and weekends, when many extracurriculars take place. In 2020, we ended the practice of charging half the fare for the 130,000 students living less than two miles from their schools making public transportation free for all students. Today’s announcement builds on that success by giving four taps per day, 24/7 for all students. This change in the student transportation policy is going to help hundreds of thousands of students and their families. I want to thank the MTA for making this happen and to our current and former Youth Council members: when you lead, you can make change in our world that helps millions of others.”

MAYOR ADAMS CELEBRATES 30 PERCENT REDUCTIONS IN BLACK, LATINO UNEMPLOYMENT SINCE START OF ADMINISTRATION

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today celebrated new economic data showing significant decreases in Black and Latino unemployment since the beginning of his administration, building on progress from previous quarters and ensuring that the new all-time jobs high, that New York City is currently at, is bringing prosperity to all New Yorkers. Between January 1, 2022, and July 1, 2024, the Black unemployment rate in the five boroughs decreased from 10.7 percent to 7.3 percent — a 31.7 percent decrease and nearly a full percentage point below the level pre-COVID. In that same timeframe, the Latino unemployment rate decreased from 9.1 percent to 6.5 percent — a 28.6 percent decrease. The labor force participation rates for Black, indigenous, and people of color, including Latino, as well as white New Yorkers have all increased over the same period as well.

“The data is clear: New York City isn’t just coming back, we’re back,” said Mayor Adams. “We have more jobs and more small businesses than ever before in our city’s history, and Black and Latino unemployment are both approximately 30 percent lower than when we came into office. That’s tens of thousands more hardworking New Yorkers able to provide for themselves and their families. We’re not stopping here, though — we won’t stop creating opportunities for all New Yorkers to thrive.”

“New York City’s economy is strong and growing stronger each month, with June setting historic highs for total jobs, private-sector jobs, labor force participation, and the lowest unemployment rate since mid-2022,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, & Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “Importantly, we see that this progress shows up in the data for Black and Latino New Yorkers and reflects how the Adams administration has focused, and will continue to focus, on building an equitable, resilient, and inclusive economy.”

“Three months into office, Mayor Adams outlined a jobs blueprint to guide the city’s recovery while building a more resilient, equitable economy. The results speak for themselves: a record number of private-sector and total jobs, a record workforce participation rate, and a record number of small businesses,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) President and CEO Andrew Kimball. “We are thrilled to see real progress in cutting the Black and Latino unemployment rate and will stay focused on working with the mayor on transformative NYCEDC projects that will deliver high-wage, high-growth jobs from Willets Point in Queens to the North Shore of Staten Island, from Hunts Point in the Bronx to the Brooklyn Marine Terminal, and from SPARC Kips Bay in Manhattan to Broadway Junction in Brooklyn.”

The Adams administration has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in creating good, family-sustaining, public- and private-sector jobs for New Yorkers. The administration has launched and advanced transformative projects in all five boroughs, including projects ranging from the Kingsbridge Armory in the Bronx, to the Brooklyn Army Terminal and Brooklyn Marine Terminal in Brooklyn, to SPARC Kips Bay in Manhattan, to Willets Point in Queens, and to the North Shore Action Plan in Staten Island. Cumulatively, these projects will create tens of thousands of permanent and temporary construction jobs, generate more than $100 billion in long-term economic impact, and cultivate good-paying, 21^st-century job opportunities.

Additionally, the administration launched “Jobs NYC,” a multi-pronged citywide effort to reduce barriers to economic opportunities and deliver workforce development services directly to communities across the five boroughs that are experiencing high unemployment, and “Run This Town,” a multi-media advertising campaign to engage diverse New Yorkers and help them apply for thousands of available city government jobs. Both campaigns are expected to further reduce the unacceptable disparities in employment between Black, Latino, and white communities. The city is also on track to deliver over 14,000 apprenticeship opportunities by the end of 2024 — ahead of schedule and nearly halfway towards the moonshot goal announced last year at Mayor Adams’ 2023 State of the City address.

Last month, Mayor Adams announced the city’s first-ever community hiring effort, which will leverage more than $1.2 billion in city contracts to create job opportunities for underserved New Yorkers. Community hiring allows the city to use its purchasing power, set hiring goals across city procurement contracts, and build on the success of existing project labor agreements and agency-specific hiring programs.

In the last 17 months, Mayor Adams has successfully negotiated contracts with unions representing 96 percent of the city’s workforce and 100 percent of the city’s uniformed workforce — the quickest any mayoral administration has reached that milestone in modern city history. These agreements with District Council 37, Communications Workers of America Local 1180, the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association, Uniformed Sanitation Workers’ Union Local 831, the United Federation of Teachers, the Police Benevolent Association, the Uniformed Officers Coalition, the Council of School Supervisors and Administrators, Teamsters Local 237, and dozens of other unions have all included wage increases, including retroactive wage increases for employees that had not received a raise in years. Additionally, many of these contracts included dedicated funding to address retention and recruitment challenges and other important benefits, such as the child care fund established in the agreement with DC 37.

MAYOR ADAMS TAKES NEW ACTIONS TO PREVENT DEADLY LITHIUM-ION BATTERY FIRES, PROMOTE SAFE E-BIKE CHARGING AND USAGE

DOT to Propose Rules Expediting Approvals and Removing Barriers to Allow Property Owners to More Quickly Install Safe, Outdoor E-Battery Charging Infrastructure

Administration to Launch $2 Million Trade-In Program for Unsafe E-Bikes, E-Mobility Devices, and Batteries

FDNY Invests $1 Million Into Education Campaign Following New Data Showing 59 Percent of 2023 Lithium-Ion Battery Fires Occurred While Batteries Were Not Charging

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today launched the New York City Safe Charging Accelerator to ensure safe e-bike usage and charging, and to prevent deadly lithium-ion battery fires in New York City. As a part of this accelerator, the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) will propose a rule to expedite approvals for property owners to more quickly install e-bike battery swapping and charging cabinets on public sidewalks, removing barriers to their installation and making them accessible and usable for e-bike users. Additionally, DOT will launch the nation’s first municipal trade-in pilot program for unsafe e-bikes and other powered mobility devices and their batteries, allowing eligible food delivery workers to replace their unsafe devices with certified, high-quality e-bikes and batteries. Finally, the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) will launch a $1 million public education and awareness campaign on the dangers of unsafe lithium-ion batteries, following new data showing that 59 percent of 2023’s lithium-ion battery fires started when those batteries were not charging. These steps build on Mayor Adams’ “Charge Safe, Ride Safe: New York City’s Electric Micromobility Action Plan” to promote public safety as e-bike usage continues to skyrocket.

“When used correctly, e-bikes are a convenient, low-cost transportation option that reduce congestion and emissions, and tens of thousands of delivery workers rely on them every day,” said Mayor Adams. “But too often, those bikes are powered by unsafe, uncertified batteries that at any minute could combust. That is why we are doing everything in our power to put a stop to these deadly fires and make use of safe lithium-ion batteries more affordable. We’re cutting red tape so property owners can install charging stations outside, in front of their buildings. We’re also launching the nation’s first municipal trade-in program, so delivery workers can swap their dangerous bikes and batteries for certified, safe versions. And we’re launching a new campaign to let New Yorkers know that charging or not, uncertified batteries can be ticking time bombs. When New Yorkers face danger, this administration will take decisive action, and that is what we have done and continue to do with respect to deadly lithium-ion battery fires.”

“The Adams administration knows e-micromobility is a critical tool many New Yorkers use for work, commuting, and pleasure, and we want to ensure our residents have more access to new technology and guidance that allows them to charge and store their lithium-ion batteries safely and prevent dangerous fires,” said Chief of Staff Camille Joseph Varlack. “I am proud New York City and the mayor’s E-Micromobility Interagency Task Force is leading the way on this urgent issue.”

“We must deliver safety to the people who deliver everything we want to our doorstep every day. That’s why we’re making sure that safe charging and storage equipment can be on our streets, where on-demand delivery workers need it; that e-bike safety education is widespread and easy to access; and delivery workers have the chance to swap a dangerous bike and battery for a new one,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “In addition to these critical fire safety measures, we are hard at work with our partners in the City Council to create regulatory authority to more broadly control who uses our streets for profit and how.”

“The fact of the matter is that deaths caused by lithium-ion battery fires are preventable,” said Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Philip Banks III. “We should not be losing any lives to this, and these efforts will go a long, long way toward getting us to that goal of zero. We’ve already made progress thanks to New Yorkers heeding the warnings about these devices, and we’re going to continue to give them the tools and support they need to stay safe.”

“E-bikes are critical tools used by tens of thousands of delivery workers to support our economy,” said DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “By providing these workers with reliable, safe equipment, we are helping protect this workforce, their neighbors and loved ones, and all New Yorkers who rely on them each day. We look forward to engaging with delivery stakeholders and with the broader public as we work together to make our city safer for everyone.”

“The reality is that lithium-ion batteries can be dangerous even if they are certified, and even if they are not charging,” said FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh. “We implore every user of a device with a lithium-ion battery to closely review this campaign and see for yourselves the deadly and destructive fires the device in your home may cause. We are not kidding around, and need everyone to think about their safety, and the safety of their families, their neighbors, and first responders.”

“Thanks to the Adams administration’s efforts, New York continues to be the safest big city in the country, and, with the launch of the new Safe Charging Accelerator, we are continuing to be a national leader in the field of building safety,” said New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) Commissioner James Oddo. “Through the Accelerator, DOB is working in close coordination with our partner agencies on a streamlined approval process for property owners who are looking to safely install new sidewalk charging cabinets outside of their buildings. The dangers associated with poorly manufactured lithium-ion batteries are clear, and by taking these batteries out of people’s homes, these sidewalk charging cabinets will vastly improve the safety of our built environment.”

“Uncertified lithium-ion batteries pose immense danger for our neighbors and communities, and we’re proud to stand with our sister agencies in taking bold action to keep New Yorkers safe,” said New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection Commissioner Vilda Vera Mayuga. “Delivery workers, like all workers, deserve safe equipment to perform their jobs and we thank the mayor and Commissioner Rodriguez for delivering for them by establishing this first-of-its-kind program to provide safer devices for some of our city’s hardest workers.”

Illegal and unregulated batteries — which power tens of thousands of micromobility devices in New York City — pose significant risks to residents and first responders due to their potential for explosive and deadly fires. Since 2019, lithium-ion batteries have started 733 fires, killing 29 New Yorkers and injuring 442 more. Notably, in 2023, 133 fires started from lithium-ion batteries that were not charging, compared to 91 that occurred while they were.

Simplifying Safe E-Bike Charger Installation

To address fire safety concerns and promote the safe use of electric micromobility devices, DOT is proposing a rule to expedite approvals for property owners to install electric micromobility device battery swapping and charging cabinets on public sidewalks, which is currently prohibited. This rule will enable property owners, or commercial tenants with the property owner’s consent, to apply for a permit to install a battery swapping and charging cabinet in front of their business on the sidewalk. Each cabinet must comply with specific siting and dimensional requirements and undergo FDNY and DOB review and approval. To support this effort, the FDNY will hire additional staff to allow for expedited safety inspections and approvals of equipment for use in New York City. Once fully staffed, approval decisions are anticipated to take no more than six weeks, with prioritized approvals for new technologies. The city will publish clear guidance for building owners on how to improve charging safety in their buildings. The FDNY will also update its website to make it easier for companies that sell lithium-ion battery storage and swapping cabinets to receive FDNY approval. To provide further guidance on lithium-ion battery policies, the city will convene a working group consisting of representatives from tech companies, real estate stakeholders, and municipal experts focused on transportation and fire safety. Within 90 days of convening, that group will issue a set of recommendations on how to update city rules and processes to increase adoption of safe charging cabinets.

A public hearing on the administration’s battery swapping and charging cabinets rule will be held online on August 21 at 10:00 AM. Applications for the program will open at the end of 2024.

E-Micromobility Trade-in Program for Food Delivery Workers

Currently, many food delivery workers utilize uncertified e-bikes and heavier electric and gas-powered mopeds, which cannot be registered with the New York state Department of Motor Vehicles due to the lack of Vehicle Identification Numbers. DOT’s e-bike trade-in program — the nation’s first municipal program of its kind — will focus on exchanging unsafe e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries for new devices. Selected participants will receive a UL-certified e-bike and two compatible, UL-certified batteries in exchange for their unsafe devices and batteries. By swapping these illegal devices for UL-certified e-bikes and batteries, the program will reduce fire and crash risks; help participants comply with local and state laws; and encourage workers to utilize cleaner, greener, forms of e-mobility for deliveries.

The program offers trade-ins of both e-micromobility devices and lithium-ion batteries to help ensure that unsafe batteries and devices are fully removed from New York City streets and that batteries are compatible with the devices they are powering.  Participants must reside in New York City, be at least 18 years of age, own an eligible, working device, and have earned at least $1,500 over the prior year as a food delivery worker to be eligible to participate in the program. Participants will receive two batteries because many delivery workers report that a full day of work often necessitates the use of two batteries.

A public hearing on the administration’s new trade-in program will be held online on August 22 at 10:00 AM. Applications for the program will open at in early 2025. The e-bike and battery trade-ins will take place in 2025, using $2 million in funding.

FDNY Public Education Campaign

This month, FDNY will launch a $1 million education campaign to further raise public awareness about the historic increase in lithium-ion battery fires in New York City and the dangers that uncertified batteries pose — even when they are not charging. Batteries must be safety certified by a national, accredited testing laboratory, like UL, and should never be repaired but rather replaced. A devastating fire that took place in May 2024 was caused by a battery on a moped that had not been used or charged in two years. In 2023, lithium-ion battery fires killed 18 people, making those fires among the top causes of fire fatalities.

Of the $1 million, $750,000 will be used for ads online, on subways and buses, on digital kiosks, in targeted newspapers, and on the radio. Translated into 10 languages, these ads will highlight the destructive potential of battery fires and will be strategically placed in neighborhoods that have a high incidence of lithium-ion battery fires. Ads will feature imagery promoting proper battery usage and include QR codes linked to fire safety education tips, including best practices for usage; will include input and safety messaging from agency partners citywide; and will incorporate feedback from delivery workers. The final $250,000 will support educational materials and advanced firefighting equipment, including technology that allows firefighters to safely extinguish fires without opening lithium-ion battery packs. New Yorkers can learn more about lithium-ion batteries and view the new campaign online.

The Adams administration has taken swift and urgent action to prevent dangerous lithium-ion battery fires and promote safe e-bike usage and charging as more and more New Yorkers use e-micromobility devices to get around the five boroughs for both work and for leisure. In March 2023, Mayor Adams released “Charge Safe, Ride Safe: New York City’s Electric Micromobility Action Plan.” The plan focuses on four key areas: promoting and incentivizing safe battery use, increasing education and outreach to electric micromobility users, advocating for additional federal regulation of these devices, and expanding enforcement against high-risk situations. Last spring, Mayor Adams also signed five bills into law to further regulate lithium-ion batteries sold in New York City and strengthen fire safety related to battery fires.

Additionally, in his 2024 State of the City address, Mayor Adams proposed the creation of the New York City Department of Sustainable Delivery — a first-in-the-nation regulatory entity that will establish clear goals and guidelines for the future of delivery in New York City; consolidate work that is now spread out over multiple agencies; prioritize safety; and harness the potential of e-bikes, mopeds, cargo bikes, and other e-micromobility devices. Efforts to structure this new entity are ongoing.

Subsequently, in February, Mayor Adams activated the first of five public e-battery charging stations as part of the city’s new six-month pilot program to test safe, public charging of lithium-ion batteries by an initial group of 100 delivery workers. 

The Adams administration has also worked closely with delivery app companies, as well as delivery workers, to spread fire safety messaging among groups and business organizations most likely to utilize e-micromobility devices. In June, the city hosted “Pedal Power for the Green Economy” at the Brooklyn Army Terminal, where government, advocacy, and economic development stakeholders convened to test out electric micromobility devices and charging cabinets and discuss ways businesses and government can collaborate to build the green workforce of the future in New York City

Finally, FDNY Commissioner Kavanagh has visited Washington, D.C. four times in the past two years to advocate for legislative changes to promote lithium-ion battery safety. On her latest trip, she met with bipartisan lawmakers, attended the inaugural World Fire Congress, and participated in a panel with global fire experts to discuss lithium-ion battery safety. FDNY Commissioner Kavanagh also testified before the U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in July 2023. Subsequently, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 1797, the “Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act,” which mandates that the CPSC establishes safety standards for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries in devices like e-bikes and e-scooters to prevent fire risks. That bill is expected to be voted on by the U.S. Senate by the end of the year.

The Lithium-Ion Battery Task Force — made up of FDNY fire marshals, Bureau of Fire Prevention inspectors, and DCWP inspectors — have conducted hundreds of inspections at e-bike and e-bike repair shops throughout the city. More than 1,000 violations, 46 criminal summonses, and 16 vacate orders were issued last year alone. The enactment of Local Laws 39 and 40, which make uncertified lithium-ion batteries illegal, has led to increased enforcement efforts and fewer of these dangerous devices being utilized on New York City streets. FDNY has also produced multiple Public Safety Awareness ads on both digital and television platforms. FDNY Fire Safety Education teams conduct events throughout the city every day, highlighting best practices for lithium-ion battery use. The full list of FDNY’s fire safety tips can be found online.

“Today is a historic step forward in our quest to rid New York City of e-bike battery fires,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Last year, there were 268 lithium-ion battery fires in our city, taking the lives of 18 people. To stamp out this scourge of deadly fires, I helped pass the bill in Albany to ban the sale of uncertified batteries, which was just signed into law.  I am now proud to support Mayor Adams as he takes the lead rolling out outdoor charging infrastructure, a trade-in program to take dangerous reconditioned batteries out of circulation, and an FDNY educational campaign. To build on this tremendous progress, I authored Priscilla’s Law, my bill in Albany which will require e-bike license plates, registration, and battery inspection. Together, we will make battery fires history and support the future of micromobility.”

“We have seen the devastating and tragic impact of e-battery fires in New York City. E-devices are a convenient, eco-friendly mode of transportation that commuters and workers rely upon, and encouraging outdoor charging and getting unsafe devices off the street will be critical to keeping New Yorkers safe,” said Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine. “I’m grateful to the Mayor, DOT, and FDNY for prioritizing New Yorkers’ safety with these creative solutions for e-bikes.”

“Lithium-ion batteries have proliferated all over the city, especially in e-bikes,” said Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella. They can pose a dangerous fire hazard, as just this year alone, there have been over 250 lithium-ion battery fires in the city, including one just last week in Port Richmond. We thank Mayor Adams for responding to our concerns with this action to take unsafe e-bikes off our streets, educate bikers on proper storage, charging and operation, and improve overall safety.” 

MAYOR ADAMS, GOVERNOR HOCHUL, COMPTROLLER LANDER ANNOUNCE $500 MILLION INVESTMENT TO BUILD AND PRESERVE AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN NEW YORK CITY

Agreement Designates Monies from Battery Park City Authority’s
Joint Purpose Fund to Be Spent on Affordable Housing

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, and New York City Comptroller Brad Lander today announced a $500 million investment from the Battery Park City Authority’s Joint Purpose Fund to build and maintain affordable housing across New York City. Through an agreement between Mayor Adams, the Battery Park City Authority (BPCA), and Comptroller Lander, BPCA will disburse $500 million in excess operating funds to New York City’s Affordable Housing Accelerator Fund for the purpose of building affordable housing. The agreement builds on commitments by Mayor Adams, Governor Hochul, and Comptroller Lander to address the housing crisis by building safer, more stable, and more affordable homes, and reducing overall housing costs for New Yorkers.

“To solve a generational housing and affordability crisis, every sector has a role in providing relief to working-class New Yorkers. Today’s announcement takes us one step closer to delivering that relief,” said Mayor Adams. “Our administration and our partners are united by a common cause: building more affordable housing. The only way to solve these dual crises is to simply build more, and with this $500 million commitment, we are coming together to use our dollars to make a difference and better support working-class New Yorkers.”

“When it comes to building the affordable homes that New Yorkers deserve, my administration is leaving no stone unturned,” said Governor Hochul. “This agreement will turn excess funds from the Battery Park City Authority into a massive $500 million investment to help New York City realize its housing potential. From our landmark budget agreement to tackle the housing crisis to transformative investments that get housing built, I am continuing to work with partners like the BPCA, Mayor Adams, and Comptroller Lander and fighting for a more affordable and more livable New York.”

“Financing the production of affordable housing remains the city’s most powerful tool in combatting the city’s housing affordability crisis,” said Comptroller Lander. “This landmark $500 million investment will help ensure that New York City and New York state have the resources we need to effectively deliver safe and affordable housing to New Yorkers.”

“Our administration is dedicated to solving our housing crisis by building together with partners across government,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “This historic investment with our administration, Governor Hochul, Comptroller Lander, and the Battery Park City Authority meets the moment, provides affordable housing for New Yorkers, and advances our moonshot goal of 500,000 new homes for New Yorkers by 2032.”

“Building and preserving more affordable homes is an absolute priority in the face of our ongoing housing crisis,” said New York City Executive Director for Housing Leila Bozorg. “I extend my sincere appreciation to Mayor Adams for his clear-eyed leadership on investing in housing, and to Governor Hochul, Comptroller Lander, and the Battery Park City Authority for this meaningful partnership that aims to make affordable housing options in our city more abundant.”

“This multi-year $500 million investment in affordable housing is an agreement that will do more than build more brick-and-mortar buildings, it will transform lives and create new futures for individuals and families waiting for secure, affordable housing,” said New York City Department for Housing Preservation and Development Commissioner Adolfo Carrion Jr. “Today, in collaboration with city and state leaders, we recommit and extend this partnership to collectively do all we can to tackle the housing crisis. When considered alongside recently secured state legislative tools, a significant city investment in housing funding from the adopted budget, and the possibility of once-in-a-generation zoning changes to accelerate construction and supply, we have a roadmap that puts us in the direction we need to create the housing access we deserve.”

“As New York City’s housing crisis deepens and the cost to build new affordable housing continues to rise, we appreciate the efforts of our city and state leaders in securing new and innovative financing sources essential to increasing our housing supply,” said New York City Housing Development Corporation President Eric Enderlin. “We look forward to collaborating with our partners to leverage this vital funding and provide more housing for New Yorkers.”

“I’m proud that as a result of the strong financial stewardship of Battery Park City, we’re in a position to recommit to address New York’s affordable housing challenges,” said Don Capoccia, chair, BPCA. “I want to thank the governor, mayor, and comptroller for their partnership in this effort and for ensuring this money will all go to building and preserving affordable housing.”

“Battery Park City Authority has a legacy of funding affordable housing across New York, and we’re thrilled to build on that legacy today” said Raju Mann, president and CEO, BPCA. “We’re facing a housing crisis and this $500 million will help create stable affordable housing for thousands of New Yorkers.”

The BPCA is a New York state public benefit corporation charged with operating, maintaining, and improving Battery Park City, a 92-acre community of residential, commercial, retail, and open space in lower Manhattan. As Battery Park City was being developed, the BPCA entered into long-term ground leases with developers, generating lease revenue from commercial and residential buildings that serves as the primary source of funding for this affordable housing commitment.

Today’s Joint Purpose Fund agreement succeeds the previous agreement for the disbursement of BPCA’s excess operating revenues, which, since 2010, has contributed $461 million in dedicated funding for affordable housing across the five boroughs and helped build or preserve over 10,000 units of affordable housing.

Since the start of his administration, Mayor Adams has made record investments towards creating and preserving affordable housing. Last month, the Adams administration delivered an on-time, balanced, and fiscally-responsible $112.4 billion Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Adopted Budget that invests $2 billion in capital funds across FY25 and FY26 to HPD and NYCHA’s capital budgets. In total, the Adams administration has committed a record $26 billion in housing capital in the current 10-year plan as the city faces a general housing crisis. In addition to these historic investments, the Adams administration is in the middle of public review for “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity,” the most pro-housing zoning proposal in New York City’s history. The New York City Department of City Planning estimates that the Adams administration’s City of Yes plan could produce as many as 108,850 new homes over the next 15 years.

The Adams administration is using every tool available to address the city’s housing crisis. Earlier this year, Mayor Adams and members of the administration successfully advocated for new tools in 2024 New York state budget that will spur the creation of urgently needed housing. These include a new tax incentive for multifamily rental construction, a tax incentive program to encourage office conversions to create more affordable units, lifting the arbitrary “floor-to-area ratio” cap that held back affordable housing production in certain high-demand areas of the city, and the ability to create a pilot program to legalize and make safe basement apartments.

Under Mayor Adams’ leadership, the city financed a record number of affordable homes in 2023 and is ahead of schedule on a 2024 State of the City commitment to advance two dozen 100-percent affordable housing projects on city-owned land this year through the “24 in ‘24” initiative. Mayor Adams has also taken steps to cut red tape and speed up the delivery of much-needed housing, including through the “Green Fast Track for Housing,” a streamlined environmental review process for qualifying small- and medium-sized housing projects; the Office Conversion Accelerator, an interagency effort to guide buildings that wish to convert through city bureaucracy; and other initiatives of the Building and Land Use Approval Streamlining Taskforce.

MAYOR ADAMS’ STATEMENT ON DECISION BY PRESIDENT BIDEN NOT TO SEEK REELECTION

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today released the following statement after President Joe Biden announced he would not seek reelection this November:

“America owes a debt of gratitude to President Joe Biden for his decades of service. He and his team took us out of COVID, stabilized the country, and restored the soul of the nation.

“President Biden is now again delivering for the American people by passing the torch at a critical moment, when the country needs strong leadership from a new generation.

“From here, the Democratic Party must continue to put working-people first and address their concerns about the cost of living, public safety, and our shared democratic values. I look forward to working with senior members of the party as we make our push towards November and ensure we address the concerns of New Yorkers and all Americans.”

MAYOR ADAMS, SHERIFF MIRANDA, NYPD COMMISSIONER CABAN ANNOUNCE RESULTS OF MAJOR ILLEGAL CANNABIS BUST, ESTIMATING $1 MILLION OF PRODUCT SEIZED

Last Night’s “Operation Padlock to Protect” Uncovered Two Operators
Illegally Selling and Packaging Cannabis for Distribution

Adams Administration Has Already Sealed 630+ Illegal Locations, Issued
$51 Million in Civil Penalties, and Seized an Estimated $20 Million of Illegal Products

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Sheriff Anthony Miranda, and New York City Police Department (NYPD) Commissioner Edward Caban today announced the results of enforcement actions taken last night against two illegal cannabis operators warehousing illegal cannabis and other products in the Throgs Neck area of the Bronx. Led by the Sheriff’s Joint Compliance Taskforce, the operation — part of “Operation Padlock to Protect” — shut down including a warehouse storing millions of dollars’ worth of illegal cannabis and psilocybin products, and a smoke shop that was hiding cannabis products in their air vents.

“We have been clear: illegal smoke shops will no longer be able to operate with impunity,” said Mayor Adams. “‘Operation Padlock to Protect’ has already shut down and padlocked over 630 illegal smoke shops, allowed us to seize over $20 million in illegal products, and impose more than $51 million in fines and penalties on those who continue to break the law. Our administration has achieved remarkable results over the last three months, and last night’s raid on two major distributors and operators shows we will not stop until every illegal shop is held accountable. For too long, these shops have contributed to a feeling that anything goes in our city, but we are going to continue to shut down illegal shops and will ensure that the future of legal cannabis burns bright in New York City. I want to thank Sheriff Miranda and his team, as well as Commissioner Caban and the NYPD, for leading this operation.”

“Unlicensed cannabis shops aren’t just breaking the law –– they’re threatening our neighborhoods,” said Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Philip Banks III. “These shops undermine the legal market, evade taxes, attract robberies and shootings, and, most notably, threaten public safety by distributing products that haven’t been tested or regulated. Our job is to protect the people of New York City, and we’re doing that every day by shutting these illegal operators down.”

“We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to keep our communities safe from these unregulated and dangerous products,” said Sheriff Miranda. “The information we obtain from the community via 3-1-1 complaints and from elected officials are critical to the success of ‘Operation Padlock to Protect.’”

“The safe sale and distribution of legal cannabis in New York City requires a licensed, regulated, and standardized industry,” said NYPD Commissioner Caban. “Illegal cannabis operators running afoul of the law are posing a public safety and health risk to our communities and are destabilizing the emerging legal industry. The NYPD and our task force partners will continue to use every resource available to enforce existing cannabis regulations and, most importantly, to protect New Yorkers.”

Last night, while the Sheriff’s Joint Compliance Task Force was conducting inspections at 51 locations throughout New York City, an inspection at 3770 E. Tremont Avenue in the Bronx resulted in the seizure of 176 pounds of cannabis flower, 0.6 pounds of THC Vape products, and psilocybin mushroom edibles. The cannabis flower was found in hidden compartments under a couch, covered by ceiling tiles, in filing cabinets, in luggage bags, and in plain view.

The inspection also uncovered a back door at a bodega at 4011 E. Tremont Avenue in the Bronx that led to a warehouse where deputies found pallets worth of cannabis flower, THC pre-rolls, THC vape products, THC concentrate, THC edibles, psilocybin edibles and psilocybin concentrate. The task force also found empty containers to pack products and a room that appeared to be set up to grow cannabis plants, leading law enforcement to suspect it is a likely distributor. The estimated total value, at this time, of products seized at the two sites during last night’s raid is at least $1 million.

Following Mayor Adams’ successful advocacy in Albany for municipalities to be given the regulatory authority by the state to finally shut down illegal smoke and cannabis shops plaguing city streets, New York City moved quickly to execute its legal authority, and accelerated its steady enforcement. With the newly granted local authority, the Adams administration has executed a five-borough strategy to finally end this public health and safety issue.

Since launching Operation Padlock to Protect — a multi-agency task force made up of members from the Sheriff’s Office, the NYPD, and the New York City Department of Consumer Affairs and Worker Protection — the Adams administration has sealed a total of 639 shops and issued 32,392 counts of violations amounting to over $51 million in penalties. The city estimates it has seized a total value of over $20 million in illegal products. Record-high closures builds on praise by New Yorkers, who join the administration in prioritizing decisive action against this public safety and quality of life nuisance.

MAYOR ADAMS, GOVERNOR HOCHUL CELEBRATE NEW SUBWAY SAFETY MILESTONES, MASSIVE DECREASES IN SUBWAY CRIME

New Data Released by NYPD Shows Transit Crime 11 Percent Lower Than 2019

Transit Crime Down 44 Percent This Week, 27 Percent Over Past Four Weeks, 8 Percent Year to Date; Fewest Robberies YTD in Recorded History

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, New York City Police Department (NYPD) Commissioner Edward A. Caban, and Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Chair and CEO Janno Lieber today celebrated new data released by the NYPD, showing new milestones in the city and MTA’s efforts to make New York City’s subways even safer. Transit crime is down 44.4 percent this week compared to the same week last year, down 26.6 percent over the last four weeks compared to the same time period last year, and down 7.8 percent year to date compared to 2023.

“Our public transit system is the lifeblood of our city, and keeping New Yorkers safe on the subway is key to ensuring that New York remains the safest big city in America,” said Mayor Adams. “Today, it is clear: thanks to our efforts, our subways are getting even safer. We’ve had five straight months of double-digit decreases in overall subway crime after we surged more than 1,000 additional officers into the system in February, and, so far, in July, we’re on track for a sixth month of safer subways. Today, other than during the pandemic, our transit system is the safest it’s been in 14 years, with the lowest number of robberies in recorded history — and we’re committed to making our subways even safer. I’m grateful to have partners in Governor Hochul, NYPD Commissioner Caban, and MTA Chair and CEO Lieber who share our commitment to making the safest city in the country even safer.”

“Keeping New Yorkers safe is my top priority, and it’s clear that the proactive measures we’re taking to prevent and reduce violence on our subways are working,” said Governor Hochul. “Secure, reliable transit is a necessity for residents and visitors in our great city. With continued partnership with Mayor Adams, Chairman Lieber and our partners in law enforcement, we will continue to do everything in our power to keep the system safe.”

“The tireless efforts of the men and women of the NYPD are making a remarkable impact on the overall safety and quality of life of all New Yorkers, both on the streets and throughout our vast transit system,” said NYPD Commissioner Caban. “With subway ridership steadily increasing, the NYPD continues to deploy its resources to stations, platforms, and trains in a strategic, intelligence-driven manner that is lifting every neighborhood and improving the lives of all the people we serve in communities across our great city.”

“Look to any city in the country and you will see the same thing: safety is the prerequisite for success of public transportation. The Adams administration is leading the way to ensure that our transit system is safe, with additional support from the NYPD and compassionate care for New Yorkers experiencing mental health crises,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations and MTA Board Member Meera Joshi. “As New Yorkers go about their days, going to work and school, picking up their kids, going out for the night, they should be confident that they’ll get where they’re going without incident. Today, thanks to the hard-working staff at the NYPD and MTA, and our partners across every level of government, we can safely say that that confidence is warranted.”

“Our public safety mission is a 24/7 endeavor, just like the New York City subway system,” said NYPD Chief of Transit Michael Kemper. “And while public safety continues to be a shared responsibility between the entire criminal justice system and the people we serve, it is the ongoing investment in transit safety by City Hall and NYPD leadership — implemented by NYPD officers — that has led to this year’s notable reduction in subway crime.”

“Governor Hochul and Mayor Adams have made subway safety a priority, and the results are in,” said MTA Chair and CEO Lieber. “In the first half of 2024, subways had both the lowest daily crime rate in 14 years and the third lowest in the 28 years since NYPD has been collecting this data when discounting the pandemic.”

If current trends continue, July will be the sixth consecutive month with a double-digit decrease in subway crime. Last year, overall crime in the transit system fell nearly 3 percent compared to 2022, as the number of riders increased by 14 percent. This year, transit crime was down 15.4 percent in February, 23.5 percent in March, 23 percent in April, 10.6 percent in May, and 15.3 percent in June.

The massive reduction in subway crime came in February, after Mayor Adams directed the NYPD to surge an additional 1,000 police officers into the subway system each day to help keep New Yorkers safe. Additionally, in March, the NYPD announced “Operation Fare Play,” an initiative to ensure riders pay their fare when entering the subway system by deploying 800 more police officers into the subway system to crack down on fare evasion. The successful operation has helped correct behavior and kept the subway system safe.

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES AHSIA BADI AS FIRST-EVER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF NEW YORK CITY CHILDREN’S CABINET

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the appointment of Ahsia Badi as the first-ever executive director of the New York City Children’s Cabinet. The Cabinet’s objective is to increase coordination and efficiency across city agencies, mayoral offices, nonprofits, and the private sector to drive a holistic, family-centered approach for the sustained health, safety, and well-being of children.

“When we invest in our children, we invest in the future and the endless potential within our city,” said Mayor Adams. “The Children’s Cabinet plays a foundational role in ensuring that our city government works with each and every sector to ensure that our children have every possible resource needed to thrive. With a proven track record of success, Ahsia Badi has the compassion and career experience necessary to build a coalition worthy enough to build the best possible city for our children. We’re excited to have her serve as our first-ever executive director.”

“I’m thrilled to welcome Ahsia Badi as the Adams administration’s first Children’s Cabinet executive director,” said Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Ana J. Almanzar. “Ahsia has a proven ability to work with and across multiple city agencies, as well as with key external stakeholders, to serve New Yorkers in need. Her experience and expertise in the fields of health, education, and social services will be invaluable to the Children’s Cabinet, as it continues to develop creative policy and program solutions for long-standing issues facing vulnerable youth and families.”  

“Since joining the deputy mayor for health and human services team, Ahsia worked to amplify the voices of advocates across issue areas, from youth homelessness to child welfare and our older adult community,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “She is deeply thoughtful in how she approaches tough issues, weighing equities of stakeholders, building relationships, and driving toward policies and practices that are inclusive and built by the community they will impact. I will miss her as part of our team but know that she will continue to make positive change in her new role.”  

“Ahsia Badi has been an outstanding partner to our agency, supporting our work around runaway and homeless youth, including the Opportunity Starts with a Home initiative to end youth homelessness,” said New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) Commissioner Keith Howard. “As a member agency of the Children’s Cabinet, DYCD is thrilled Ahsia will oversee the coordination of government and community partners, and help us collectively carry out Mayor Adams’ forward vision for our youngest New Yorkers.”

“I applaud Mayor Adams for appointing Ahsia Badi to serve as executive director of the Children’s Cabinet,” said New York City Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) Commissioner Jess Dannhauser. “Ahsia has been a valuable colleague and collaborator with us at ACS, our sister agencies, and our non-profit partners on a variety of issues related to children and families. ACS looks forward to continuing to work with Ahsia in her new role.”  

“This administration has made it clear: every child deserves a bright start and a bold future,” said New York City Public Schools Chancellor David Banks. “The Children’s Cabinet’s holistic approach to supporting our city’s most vulnerable children helps ensure they receive compassionate, comprehensive, and coordinated care. Ahsia Badi’s wealth of experience and proven track record set her up to be the champion our children’s needs, and I look forward to working alongside her.”

“Ahsia Badi has exhibited an exceptional commitment to empowering marginalized communities, cultivating relationships across agencies, and working collaboratively with external partners to deliver the best results for New Yorkers,” said New York City Department of Social Services Commissioner Molly Wasow Park. “She is perfectly positioned to serve as the first executive director of the New York City Children’s Cabinet and advance this administration’s goal of bringing every agency, office, and organization together to provide New York City’s families and children with the compressive and holistic supports they need to flourish. We look forward to exploring new and innovative solutions to the issues impacting New York City’s children with Ahsia at the helm of the Children’s Cabinet.”

The Children’s Cabinet is a multi-agency initiative focused on bolstering communication and coordination among city agencies that directly work with New York City’s most vulnerable children. Additionally, the cabinet supports cross-agency initiatives, creates policy priorities that can guide agencies’ short- and long-term planning, improves data integration, and develops analytic tools to allow for improved service delivery and strategic planning. 

The Adams administration has made historic investments towards delivering holistic support for New York City’s children. Last month, Mayor Adams released a balanced $112.4 billion Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Executive Budget that invests in protecting educational programs with not only city, but also recurring state funds, as well as increasing access to early childhood education. To create a better future for New York City’s children, the Adams administration made the following investments:

Reducing waitlists for Special Education Pre-K seats by creating new, city-run seats for children when providers do not have room ($30 million).
Maximizing take-up of extended day seats available to eligible families by expanding the investments made in the last adopted budget ($25 million).
Supporting undocumented children and their families who are not eligible for federally subsidized extended day and yearly child care due to their immigration status by expanding “Promise NYC” ($25 million).
Identifying seats for more than 1,700 families who did not receive offers in the 2024-2025 school year for the Pre-K and 3-K application round ($20 million).
Providing sustainable funding for the Mayor’s Office of Child Care and Early Education, which was previously funded with philanthropic dollars, to continue its work supporting the city’s early childhood sector ($485,000).

In addition to investing over $600 million in new funding to protect critical programs that were funded with temporary COVID-19 stimulus dollars and protect schools with declining enrollment from budget reductions, the FY25 Adopted Budget builds on recently announced investments by:

Restoring Summer Rising extended day and Friday programming for middle school participants ($19.6 million).
Supporting community school programming ($14 million).
Providing free MetroCards to this summer’s Summer Youth Employment Program participants ($11 million).
Investing in teacher recruitment efforts that are critical to meeting state mandated class-size legislation standards ($10 million).
Continuing the DYCD Adult Literacy Education contracted programs ($10 million).

Funding restorative justice programming designed to reduce the reliance on suspensions or punitive discipline across city schools ($6 million).
Continuing the cross-agency Mental Health Continuum partnership to provide mental health support to all students ($5 million).
Supporting digital learning resources for students and teachers ($5 million).
Expanding arts education in schools ($4 million).
Supporting tutoring for kindergarten through second grade literacy and sixth through eighth grade math education at select schools across the city ($4 million).
Funding for immigrant family engagement to address potential communication gaps between schools and support parents who do not speak English fluently ($4 million).
Continuing support for incorporation of LGBTQ+ inclusive topics, history, and wellness into student curricula ($2.8 million).
Funding fee waivers for community organizations using New York City Public Schools’ space ($2 million).
Providing resources for parent and family engagement to support New York City Public Schools’ “Family and Community Engagement” initiative, which focuses on parent empowerment and engagement ($1 million).

About Ahsia Badi

Ahsia Badi brings over 15 years of experience across public health, child development, and supporting marginalized communities. Before this role, Badi served as a senior advisor to the deputy mayor for health and human services, providing support across multiple agencies including the ACS and DYCD’s Runaway and Homeless Youth program.

Prior to joining city service, Badi held key positions in large-scale public health programs at institutions including the New York Academy of Medicine, Columbia University, and Stanford University. Additionally, she played integral roles in wide-reaching campaigns focused on Census 2020 with Emgage and the New York State Redistricting Commission.

As a clinically trained occupational therapist, Badi possesses a deep understanding of child development and the unique needs of children and youth. With extensive experience in community-based early intervention and New York City’s public schools, she has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to empowering youth, parents, and teachers to navigate complex environments and classrooms that foster success and inclusion of all.

Badi earned a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy and International Studies from Ohio State University and a Master’s in Public Health from the University of California, Berkeley.

Badi will report to Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Almanzar.

“I congratulate my friend Ahsia Badi on her historic appointment as executive director of the New York City Children’s Cabinet,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “I have witnessed her extraordinary leadership and commitment to public service over the years. Ahsia brings to the office a distinguished career, spanning more than 20 years with accomplishments such as spearheading children’s health programs at Stanford and Columbia, Muslim American community outreach for the 2020 Census, and serving as a senior advisor to the deputy mayor of health and human services. She has a record of giving back to her community, serving for over a decade on Manhattan Community Board Six. Under her leadership, the cabinet will unite all city offices, nonprofits, and the private sector to advance the welfare and safety of our children better than ever before. As the first South Asian woman elected to New York State Office, I am especially proud that her appointment demonstrates our commitment to an administration that reflects the diversity of our ‘Gorgeous Mosaic.’” 

“I have had the pleasure of working alongside Ahsia Badi for years while she served on Community Board Six, president of a local democratic club. and liaison to the Bellevue Hospital’s Community Board,” said New York State Assemblymember Harvey Epstein. “Ahsia works tirelessly to uplift the voices of marginalized populations and is passionate about breaking down systemic barriers so that all children and families can thrive. She has been involved in local issues throughout her career. I am excited to see her grow professionally and serve our city in her new role as the executive director of the New York City Children’s Cabinet”

“Ahsia Badi is a champion for New York families and a fierce advocate for public health and child wellness,” said New York City Councilmember Carlina Rivera. “I congratulate her on the appointment as executive director of the New York City Children’s Cabinet and look forward to seeing the amazing work she will do to improve the lives of New Yorkers.”   

“I have known Ahsia Badi for years and she is a dedicated public servant who is an excellent choice to lead the Children’s Cabinet,” said New York City Councilmember Keith Powers. “Making sure our city government works effectively for families and children all over New York is important work and Ahsia will do it well.”

“As executive director of the New York City Children’s Cabinet, Ahsia Badi brings broad experience and a deep commitment to community-focused solutions,” said Susan Stamler, executive director, United Neighborhood Houses. “Her leadership will be instrumental in ensuring our city’s children have the resources and support they need to thrive.” 

“Ahsia Badi’s appointment as executive director of the New York City Children’s Cabinet is a testament to her dedication to inclusive policies and diverse communities,” said Murad Awawdeh, president and CEO, New York Immigration Coalition. “With hands-on experience in community-based initiatives and New York City’s public schools, Ahsia will bring a profound understanding of the needs of our youngest New Yorkers, ensuring that their health, safety, and well-being are at the forefront of policy and program development. We are confident that under her leadership, the Children’s Cabinet will continue strengthening partnerships, enhancing communications, and developing innovative strategies to meet the needs of vulnerable children and families while ensuring equitable opportunities and support.”

“Congratulations to Ahsia Badi on her appointment as the new executive director of the New York City Children’s Cabinet,” said Marielys Divanne, executive director, Educators for Excellence New York. “Her dedication to equity and innovative solutions will undoubtedly advance the well-being and futures of our city’s youngest residents. We look forward to the impactful policies and programs that will support and empower children and families across New York City.”

MAYOR ADAMS’ STATEMENT ON INCIDENT INVOLVING FORMER PRESIDENT TRUMP IN PENNSYLVANIA

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams released the following statement after an incident took place at a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania involving former President Donald Trump:

“The events that unfolded at today’s rally in Pennsylvania are horrific. No matter our disagreements, we must all agree that violence of any kind is unacceptable. I am praying for the safety of former President Trump and anyone else who may have been injured in the attack in the incident today.

“While we continue to gather more information, we will be surging officers to certain sites across the five boroughs.”

MAYOR ADAMS, GOVERNOR HOCHUL, AND DEPARTMENT OF YOUTH AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ANNOUNCE $4.2 MILLION IN STATE GRANTS TO SUPPORT YOUTH TEAM SPORTS ACROSS ALL FIVE BOROUGHS

Part of the Adams Administration’s “Summer of Possibility,” Celebrating City’s Unrivaled Summer Offerings, and Governor Hochul’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” Statewide Campaign, Encouraging Kids to Put Down Phones and Enjoy Outdoor Activities This Summer

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, and New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) Commissioner Keith Howard today announced $4.2 million in state grants to provide youth team sports programming, sports education, and athletic equipment upgrades across the city. Approximately $2.3 million has already been distributed, and another $1.9 million is being allocated for this summer to support 41 additional community-based organizations, most of them without existing contracts with the city. The funding prioritizes historically underserved neighborhoods, including the six priority New York City Police Department (NYPD) precincts identified in “A Blueprint for Community Safety,” a forward-thinking roadmap with upstream solutions to address gun violence throughout the five boroughs. Among the providers, 17 will provide girls team sports, five target young people who identify as non-binary, and 19 support youth with special needs. Today’s announcement is part of the administration’s “Summer of Possibility,” a celebration of New York City’s unrivaled summer offerings at a time when crime is down, jobs are up, and the city is more livable than when the Adams administration came into office.

“Sports are more than just a fun activity; they provide a safe space for our young people during the summer days to learn about teamwork, collaboration, and leadership,” said Mayor Adams. “Thanks to this multi-million-dollar state grant, neighborhoods most in need of support will be first in line for critical investments to more than 40 local community-based organizations. This summer, I’m wishing our future all-stars and champions good luck, and may the best team win!”

“We’re making it easier for our young people to put down their phones and stay active through youth team sports across New York City,” said Governor Hochul. “With the support of Mayor Adams, I’m looking forward to seeing more young New Yorkers get offline, get outside, and enjoy all the city has to offer this summer.”

“Youth sports serve more than one purpose: they help our kids stay active and healthy, and provide them with opportunities to develop social skills and work as part of a team with their peers. All our young New Yorkers deserve an opportunity to take to the field, court, or pool to learn some new skills, while also having fun,” said Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Ana J. Almanzar. “These new grants at DYCD will serve as a perfect complement to our city’s existing youth development offerings, like Summer Rising, Summer Youth Employment Program, and Saturday Night Lights.”

“Playing tournament basketball with my older brother Jimmie Jr. while growing up in the Bronx and during college taught me the value of team sports that goes well beyond the court. I learned about discipline, working with others, self-confidence, and becoming a leader,” said DYCD Commissioner Howard. “DYCD is proud to have helped secure these state grants for our community-based partners throughout the five boroughs and give young people their ‘Summer of Possibility.’ I join Mayor Adams, Governor Hochul, Mayor’s Office of Sports, Wellness, and Recreation Director Jasmine Ray, Senator Jamaal Bailey, and our 41 providers in saying: Go teams!”

“Among the best tools we have to combat violence in New York City is our ability to engage young people in recreational activities, particularly during the hot summer months when we have historically seen increases in crime,” said NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban. “This is one of the many ways the men and women of the NYPD work every day to keep our communities safe and improve quality of life in every neighborhood, in every borough.”

“As someone who has provided sports activation in our public parks for over 15 years, I have experienced firsthand the vital role that funding plays in the sustainability and growth of community-based organizations,” said New York City Mayor’s Office of Sports, Wellness, and Recreation Director Jasmine Ray. “I was fortunate to have the support of the City Council via the discretionary funding initiative, which was essential to the survival and success of my organization. This support enabled me to serve over 2,600 young people during my tenure as CEO of The United States Wallball Association. Plainly speaking, when we invest in play, we shape our future. Sports serve as a crime prevention tool, and foster community and teamwork. We all know the benefits, and it is time we allocated more resources to that effect. This investment by Mayor Adams, Governor Hochul, and DYCD underscores our administration’s commitment to keeping young people — especially those in high-risk communities — active, healthy, and positively engaged during a critical period in their lives. I am extremely proud to stand with and support the efforts of our administration in bolstering local community-based organizations. Bravo!”

“Ensuring that all young people, regardless of their abilities, have access to team sports and recreational activities is a part of our commitment to inclusivity. These grants will not only provide essential resources, but also foster a sense of belonging and empowerment for youth with disabilities across the city,” said New York City Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities Commissioner Christina Curry. “By supporting team sports for youth with disabilities, we are championing their right to participate, thrive, and enjoy the full spectrum of summer offerings in New York City.”

“Team sports are vital in empowering young people to stay active, make meaningful connections, and develop transformative leadership skills,” said New York City Chief Equity Officer and Mayor’s Office of Equity and Racial Justice Commissioner Sideya Sherman. “We are thrilled that this investment in sports and recreation programming will immediately impact young people this summer. By prioritizing communities that have been historically under-resourced and marginalized, we can ensure that more young people, regardless of their identity or zip code, can enjoy active, joyful summers filled with possibilities.”

“Sports are an effective tool for engaging young people in positive social activities that enhance their growth and development,” said New York State Office of Children and Family Services Commissioner Dr. DaMia Harris-Madden. “These youth sports grants help ensure that all youth have access to programs that encourage healthy interactions and teamwork, as well as build emotional and physical health. I am so pleased that New York City is engaging community-based partners to support the youth sports initiative.”

“I have great appreciation for the dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment that Governor Hochul, Mayor Adams, and the DYCD team puts into supporting and nurturing our youth,” said New York State Senator Jamaal T. Bailey. “I am passionate about providing children and young adults the opportunity to participate in sports — especially without financial strain. I am proud to have been the original bill sponsor of a program that has been placed in our state’s budget, and for the second year, contributing to the allocation of $10 million for a statewide Youth Sports Grant program. I am thrilled about the implementation of the Youth Team Sports, which will make great strides in providing necessary support. Youth sports are more than athletic competition — they teach teamwork and provide a roadmap in life on how to accomplish more together as life is the ultimate team sport. I’m glad to have played a role in getting more of our young people prepared for the future by way of excellence in youth team sports.”

The grants announced today were created under the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) to provide awards to support team sports programs for underserved young people, under 18 years old, in:

Historically under-resourced communities.
Neighborhoods that experience higher rates of crime and violence and have low-performing schools.
Communities with high rates of public housing and/or family homelessness.
Marginalized communities or groups with higher barriers to participation in team sports (e.g., youth with disabilities, girls, transgender/gender non-binary youth, and youth who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or questioning).

The full list of new summer programming can be viewed online.

More than 500,000 people walked, ran, cycled, or played on Summer Streets last year, in the program’s first year operating in all five boroughs. This year’s program will represent the most ambitious version of Summer Streets since its launch in 2008 and brings a continued focus on spreading programming out equitably throughout the city. Summer Streets will return for five Saturdays, from July 27 through August 24. Car-free routes remain the same for the five boroughs — with the exception of a new route launching on Staten Island. More details on each route can be found online.

Last month, Mayor Adams and New York City Department of Cultural Affairs Commissioner (DCLA) Laurie Cumbo highlighted an array of free events, festivals, performances, and other cultural programming available to New Yorkers as the weather continues to warm up. Much of this cultural programming is financially supported by the City of New York to be free, open, and accessible to all New Yorkers and visitors.

“HealthJox is proud to be a recipient of the Neighborhood Team Youth Sports Grant, as this will help us continue the work that we’ve been doing in the community: making sure that our NYC youth stay active, receive the best health information, improve their mental health, and continue on the proper trajectory to achieve their purpose in this life,” said Dewry DuRoi Bradford, founder, HealthJox LLC.

“Rosedale Jets Football and Cheer Program is immensely grateful for the leadership of Mayor Eric Adams and the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development. This grant will enable our program to provide both football and cheer camp for so many deserving and worthy young people in Southeast Queens,” said Jacques M. Léandre, Esq., president, Rosedale Jets Football Association. “The participants will gain team building skills, learn the fundamentals of football and cheerleading techniques, and develop communication skills through the sports of football and cheer.”

“As an Olympic athlete and Brooklyn native, I know sports are a powerful, multi-dimensional solution to address many of our city’s challenges. Not only do youth sports programs help combat childhood obesity, but high-dosage sports programs support mental well-being, enhance academic outcomes, provide learning environments, and teach important leadership and life skills,” said Nzingha Prescod, founder and executive director, The Prescod Institute for Sport, Teamwork, and Education. “Unfortunately, organized sports are expensive and exclude the populations that need them the most. We are proud to give underrepresented youth in New York City opportunities through the sport of fencing, and are excited to receive this funding to continue this important work.”

NEW REPORT SHOWS MAYOR ADAMS, COMMISSIONER MAYUGA DELIVER FOR DELIVERY WORKERS BY SIGNIFICANTLY BOOSTING PAY

Pay Increases Accompanied by Increase in Customer Delivery Orders, Strong Industry

Over First Quarter of 2024, Delivery Workers Made 64 Percent More Compared to Same Quarter Last Year Before Minimum Pay Rate Took Effect

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) Commissioner Vilda Vera Mayuga today released the first quarterly report analyzing data that third-party restaurant delivery apps submitted to DCWP as part of its monitoring of compliance with the city’s minimum pay rate. The report indicates that workers’ earnings increased by 64 percent — from $11.72 per hour to $19.26 per hour after tips — since last year and customers are placing more restaurant deliveries through the apps. The data specifically covers the first quarter of 2024, when the minimum pay rate was at least $17.96 per hour and before the first annual increase went into effect in April.

“The data confirms what we know: when workers succeed, New York City succeeds,” said Mayor Adams. “I am encouraged that the report released today reveals that delivery workers made 64 percent more than they did during the same time last year thanks to our implementation of the minimum pay rate rule. We are tackling our city’s affordability crisis head on by helping put more money into the pockets of working people, while simultaneously supporting a growing restaurant economy. Our administration will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with working-class New Yorkers. I thank DCWP for their enforcement of this crucial worker-protection law and putting working people first.”

“From day one, this administration has centered the needs of working-class people,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “Today’s numbers are proof that the nation’s first minimum pay rate law is not only providing workers greater means to support themselves and their families, but also growing our economy further. Thank you, Mayor Adams and Commissioner Mayuga, for delivering for the more than 60,000 app-based delivery workers in our city.”

“The minimum pay rate has been a true success for our city — it has helped lift up some of our hardest working New Yorkers while still allowing the app-based restaurant delivery industry to grow and thrive,” said DCWP Commissioner Mayuga. “We will continue to monitor the apps’ compliance to ensure workers are being paid appropriately, but any worker who has questions or complaints should reach out to us immediately.”

The inaugural quarterly report reveals that worker pay is significantly higher, impacts on the restaurant industry have been minimal, and the demand for app-based food delivery remains strong. Key takeaways of the report include:

Workers are earning significantly more:

Delivery workers earned an average of $19.26 per hour after tips, a 64 percent increase from the same quarter the year prior before the minimum pay rate was in effect.
The $19.26 per hour average is comprised of $16.95 per hour paid by apps — a 188 percent increase since last year — and $2.31 per hour paid in tips — a 60 percent decrease since last year. The decrease in tipping is primarily the result of changes some apps have made to their interfaces to make it more difficult for consumers to tip. Due to utilization rate limits not taking effect until April 1, 2024, the average worker pay rate was below the effective minimum pay rate during this first quarter. See report for more details.
Delivery workers earned a combined total of $28.3 million per week, a 42 percent increase from Q1 2023 to Q1 2024. For the typical worker who works for 20 hours a week, that is an increase of at least $12,000 more per year.

Apps are using workers’ time more effectively:

The amount of time workers spent “on-call,” or waiting for an order, decreased 39 percent from Q1 2023 to Q1 2024 — this is time that workers were not previously paid for. During the same period, the amount of time workers spent on trips increased by 15 percent, demonstrating that the apps made better use of workers’ time.
Delivery workers completed an average of 1.89 deliveries per hour in Q1 2024, up 25 percent from 1.51 deliveries per hour in Q1 2023.

Consumers and restaurants have not been negatively impacted:

The number of deliveries increased by 8 percent — from more than 2.56 million in Q1 2023 to more than 2.77 million in Q1 2024 — showing that the industry continues to grow even while workers earn a more dignified wage.
Consumers’ average total cost, inclusive of subtotal, tips, fees, and taxes, only increased by $0.76 — or 2 percent — from $38.35 in Q1 2023 to $39.11 in Q1 2024. Apps raised delivery fees by an average of $2.30 per order, however the average tip amount decreased by $2.64.

In June 2023, the Adams administration announced the final minimum pay rule, effective July 12, 2023, following a monthslong rulemaking process that included two public hearings and thousands of public comments. In early July 2023, the major delivery apps sued the city, seeking to stop the minimum pay rate from taking effect. In September, the New York State Supreme Court ruled in the city’s favor, allowing enforcement of the minimum pay rate of $17.96 to begin. The apps appealed the State Supreme Court’s ruling, and in late November, the Appellate Division, First Judicial Department denied the appeals, paving the way for DCWP to finally begin enforcing the minimum pay rate.

Following the passage of a local law, DCWP published a study, in 2022, which drew from data obtained from restaurant delivery apps, surveys distributed to delivery workers and restaurants, testimony, extensive discussions with stakeholders on all sides, and publicly available data.

Delivery Workers can visit DCWP’s Third-Party Food Delivery Services page or call 311 and say “delivery worker” to learn more about the minimum pay rate. Workers can also submit questions or file complaints related to the minimum pay rate or other delivery worker laws in multiple languages online or by contacting 311.

This minimum pay rate is just one part of the city’s holistic approaches to improving working conditions for delivery workers. In his 2024 State of the City address, Mayor Adams announced plans to create the New York City Department of Sustainable Delivery, a first-in-the-nation regulatory entity to establish clear goals and guidelines for the future of deliveries. In February 2024, Mayor Adams and the New York City Department of Transportation also announced five public e-battery charging locations as part of the city’s six-month pilot program to test safe, public charging of lithium-ion batteries by an initial group of 100 delivery workers. Additionally, the Adams administration has launched a program for first-of-its-kind street Deliveristas Hubs, utilizing existing infrastructure to provide a place for workers to rest and recharge.

“Our 60,000-plus delivery workers make New York City run,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “At any time and in all weather, they are out in the streets bringing us whatever we need. They are overwhelmingly immigrants working day and night to achieve the American Dream. Just as they deliver for us, we delivered for them by implementing a first-of-its-kind minimum hourly pay rate that has risen to $19.26 – a 64 percent increase in pay for some of our hardest working New Yorkers. These deliveristas deserve to stand on their own two feet, and guaranteeing their wages is a testament to our commitment to a city that uplifts all workers.”

“As former commissioner of the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, I welcome the news that delivery workers have benefited with higher earnings because of the new minimum pay rate,” said New York City Councilmember Julie Menin, chair, Committee on Consumer and Worker Protection. “I acknowledge Commissioner Mayuga and her team for the successful implementation and monitoring of this policy. The new rates ensure that New York City remains a leading advocate for delivery workers, setting a powerful example for cities across the nation.”

“All working New Yorkers deserve fair compensation and workplace protections; local legislation and budgetary allocations have helped ensure just treatment and benefits for delivery workers,” said New York City Councilmember Carlina Rivera, chair, Committee on Cultural Affairs and Libraries. “The data shows that efforts are paying off, with delivery workers earning 64 percent more than last year, and we must ensure these laws are enforced so that hard working New Yorkers remain protected.”

“New York’s delivery workers are the true economic engines of the delivery industry, making app-based delivery growth possible,” said Ligia Guallpa, executive director, Worker’s Justice Project. “Their pay should make it possible for them to live with dignity in the city they serve. These strong results show yet again that we don’t have to make the false choice between business growth and workers’ rights; with enough vision, just wages can and ought to be the foundation for business models that thrive. We are grateful to Mayor Adams and Department of Consumer and Worker Protection Commissioner Mayuga for having that vision and for standing alongside New York’s deliveristas in their historic campaign for decent wages and working conditions.”

“It is no surprise that the city’s minimum pay rate increase not only put more money in the pockets of delivery workers, but also strengthened the industry overall,” said Manny Pastreich, president, 32BJ SEIU. “32BJ SEIU applauds this administration for taking the necessary steps to support some of the hardest-working New Yorkers. We congratulate the delivery workers on their hard-won victory, and we thank Mayor Adams for his leadership and the Department of Consumer Affairs and Worker Protection for their enforcement of this vital worker protection law.”

NEW YORK CITY’S ASYLUM APPLICATION HELP CENTER WINS AMERICAN BAR ASSOCIATION’S HODSON AWARD FOR PUBLIC SERVICE

Prestigious Award Recognizes Application Help Center for Extraordinary Service by Government Law Office

In First Year, Center Submitted More Than 58,000 Work Authorization, Temporary Protected Status, and Asylum Applications

Innovative Model is First-in-Nation to Combine Government, Law Firm, Corporate, Nonprofit, and University Support to Provide Pro Se Application Support at Scale

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced that following the city’s Asylum Application Help Center’s first anniversary, the center has won the American Bar Association’s Hodson Award for distinguished public service for its work helping asylum seekers submit applications for work authorization, temporary protected status (TPS), and asylum. The award — named in honor of the distinguished public service career of the late Major General Kenneth J. Hodson, a former judge advocate general of the U.S. Army — recognizes sustained, outstanding performance or a specific and extraordinary service by a government or public sector law office.

“New York City has done more than any other locality across the country to manage the asylum seeker crisis, and a key part of that work is helping our newcomers take their next steps towards independence by helping them submit vital and complicated work authorization, TPS, and asylum applications,” said Mayor Adams. “This well-deserved award is a credit to our creative and dedicated team, who created this first-in-the-nation center and have supported more than 58,000 applications — that’s tens of thousands of individuals and families who are this much closer to the American Dream. And if we get the federal changes we need to make it easier for even more people to work, we’ll be able to do that much more. My thanks to the American Bar Association for recognizing this incredible, impactful work.”

“Since the first asylum seekers arrived in New York, we’ve worked hand-in-hand with Mayor Adams and his administration to provide resources and support,” said New York Governor Kathy Hochul. “Thanks to our partnership with Mayor Adams and his administration, we’re making real progress on work authorization and case management. Migrants came to this country to work — so we’re coordinating our efforts to put them to work.”

“In just one year, our help center has become a beacon of hope and support, reflecting our city’s dedication to upholding the American Dream and providing essential services to those in need,” said Chief of Staff Camille Joseph Varlack. “This recognition underscores our unwavering commitment to serving asylum seekers with compassion and excellence. We are honored to receive this award and remain steadfast in our mission to serve our community with compassion and care.”

“In just one year, the Asylum Application Help Center has helped complete more than 58,000 applications, work authorizations, and temporary protected status applications,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “We know that this work is part of a complex federal process, but our teams have worked incredibly hard to help every individual and family that came through the doors of the center. Our teams also enlisted the help of law firms, academic institutions, and philanthropies to build out this effort including support from the state government to create satellite sites to reach even more people. Thank you to our teams leading this work, setting a standard for the nation, and thank you to all those that have contributed over the last year.”

“The backbone of the Asylum Application Help Center is our dedicated corps of supervising attorneys, application assistants, and operational staff who show up every day with creativity and positivity to assist our newest neighbors,” said City Hall Chief Counsel Lisa Zornberg. “We are deeply grateful to all who have answered the call to serve at the center, and for the support of Governor Hochul, the federal government, and our dedicated partners from the educational, nonprofit and corporate community. Together, we have not only helped file over 58,000 applications, but have been recognized by the American Bar Association as a model for the nation.”

“Today, we celebrate a major milestone in our response to this national humanitarian crisis with the one-year anniversary of the Asylum Application Help Center,” said Office of Asylum Seeker Operations Director Molly Schaeffer. “In collaboration with our state and federal partners, the center has helped migrants and asylum seekers submit over 58,000 applications for asylum, work authorization, and TPS. New Yorkers do what we do best in times of crisis: we develop creative solutions, and we’re proud that we’ve created a national model that helps people take the next steps in their American journey.”

“As an immigrant, helping thousands of families take the next step in their journey to security and stability is an honor of a lifetime,” said Asylum Application Help Center Executive Director Masha Gindler. “I am grateful to the American Bar Association for recognizing the hard work and irreplaceable talent of the center’s application assistants, supervising attorneys, and site management staff on our one-year anniversary.”

In the Asylum Application Help Center’s first year, the city has helped migrants and migrant families in the city’s care submit more than 58,000 applications for work authorization, TPS, and asylum. The Asylum Application Help Center has expanded to five locations in two boroughs, and co-hosted successful satellite clinics in partnership with the state of New York, which has supported the center with $40 million in funding; the federal government; Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP; New York Law School; and Educational Alliance. It has welcomed almost 2,000 volunteers from universities, law firms, and corporations. Thousands of asylum seekers assisted by the Asylum Application Help Center have already been granted work authorization, TPS, and asylum.

Helping asylum seekers to file asylum applications helps deliver on another promise made in Mayor Adams’ “The Road Forward: A Blueprint to Address New York City’s Response to the Asylum Seeker Crisis,” released last spring. The Adams administration also continues to strongly urge the federal government to immediately use every tool at its disposal to protect and support newly arrived migrants and asylum seekers — and the municipalities supporting them — by expanding humanitarian parole and temporary protected status and expediting.

Since the asylum seeker humanitarian crisis began in April 2022, New York City has taken fast and urgent action to provide care to the more than 200,000 migrants who have come to the five boroughs and sought assistance from the city — opening more than 200 emergency shelters to provide a roof over the heads of migrants. In addition to the Asylum Application Help Center, the city has also stood up navigation centers to connect asylum seekers with critical resources and enrolled tens of thousands of children in public schools through Project Open Arms. Last August, Mayor Adams hosted “The American Dream Works” — a rally with hundreds of asylum seekers, union members, business leaders, and elected officials calling for expanded work authorization for asylum seekers. Subsequently, President Biden announced an extension of temporary protected status for Venezuelan migrants.

“Educational Alliance is proud to be partnering with the city’s Asylum Application Help Center on a work authorization clinic pilot program at our offices on Manhattan’s Lower East Side,” said Rich Baum, president and CEO, Educational Alliance. “We appreciate the city’s support and innovative effort to make a difference in the lives of new New Yorkers. When asylum seekers are equipped with the tools they need to find work, they are more readily able to thrive and flourish in their new community.”

“New York Law School was excited to join the city in providing pro se asylum assistance,” said Anthony Crowell, dean and president, New York Law School (NYLS). “In addition to sending interns and volunteers to the Center, NYLS served as a satellite site for the Asylum Application Help Center. By hosting 16 asylum clinics on our campus, we gave our students, faculty, alumni, and community volunteers more opportunities to meaningfully contribute to this program and support our new neighbors.”

“Last summer, when New York City called upon its leading institutions of higher education to contribute much-needed people power to aid the newest New Yorkers in filling out applications for asylum, New York University promptly responded to the call,” Georgina Dopico, provost, New York University. “Since then, we have watched with pride as our students, faculty, and staff devoted their energy, wisdom, and compassion to this important effort. And now, we congratulate the team at the Asylum Application Help Center, both for helping tens of thousands of people and for receiving this well-merited award for doing so; we are glad to have been part of the effort.”

“We are proud to be a leader in this city initiative to help more individuals secure work authorization,” said Brad S. Karp, chair, Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP.

“New York City’s Asylum Application Help Center is a groundbreaking approach to helping the newest arrivals to our community on a large scale, providing all the necessary tools to help volunteers assist asylum seekers,” said Stacey E. Kushlefsky, pro bono counsel, Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP. “Willkie is proud to be a continuing supporter of this important and much-needed initiative having provided attorney, paralegal, intern, and summer law clerk volunteers.”

“The Colin Powell School is a proud partner of the Asylum Application Help Center,” said Andrew Rich, Richard J. Henley and Susan L. Davis dean, Colin Powell School for Civic and Global Leadership, City College of New York. “By welcoming so many new Americans to New York City, the center embodies the core values, not only of our institution, but also of our students. Over the last year, 30 of our students worked with asylum seekers to navigate a complex application process. We are pleased to have contributed to the center’s efforts in its first year, and we look forward to continuing to provide our students with meaningful and transformative experiences through this relationship.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES RETURN OF ‘RISE UP NYC’ SUMMER CONCERT SERIES, FEATURING 18 WORLD-CLASS CONCERTS ACROSS FIVE BOROUGHS

Performances Will Showcase Range of Music Genres and Cultures, Reflecting Sounds of Diverse City

Full Rise Up NYC Artist Line-Up to Be Announced in Coming Weeks

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the return of the ‘Rise Up NYC’ summer concert series, offering 18 free outdoor concerts to New Yorkers across all five boroughs this summer. The highly anticipated concert series — put on in partnership with City Parks Foundation SummerStage — is expanding significantly for its third season, inspiring all New Yorkers to unite and uplift New York City. This collaboration will incorporate select events from City Parks Foundation SummerStage’s free outdoor concerts into the Rise Up NYC lineup — promising an extraordinary and unforgettable summer filled with exceptional music.

“Once again, starting on July 14^th, New Yorkers will gather together and partake in the music and culture that keeps our city moving,” said Mayor Adams. “‘Rise Up NYC’ is a free concert series that fosters camaraderie among New Yorkers and brings enjoyment to our beloved city. Music and the arts are essential to our city, and this summer, we are going to amplify the experience and make sure we are giving residents of the five boroughs an all-star experience at no cost. We welcome all New Yorkers to join us in celebrating the vibrant energy of our city through the shared joy of music.”

“Our ‘Rise Up NYC’ concert series is back, offering free outdoor concerts in all five boroughs,” said Chief Advisor to the Mayor Ingrid Lewis Martin. “As summer kicks into high gear, we invite all New Yorkers to bring their family and friends for fun nights and world-class entertainment in the city that never sleeps. Together we can Rise Up!”

Kicking off on July 14^th with Common, Pete Rock, and other performers at the Herbert Von King Park, the concert series will give New Yorkers free and safe access to exceptional concerts at a time when rising costs are putting a strain on many families. In its previous two seasons, Rise Up NYC featured performances by critically acclaimed artists such as Chrisette Michele, Maxi Priest, Mary Mary, Ja Rule, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, Wyclef Jean, and many more.

From July 14^th through August 25^th, the Adams administration will present 18 free concerts to New Yorkers across the five boroughs:

Bronx

Thursday, August 1
Crotona Park (Presented by City Parks Foundation SummerStage)
Crotona Avenue & Claremont Parkway

Friday, August 2
Crotona Park (Presented by City Parks Foundation SummerStage)
Crotona Avenue & Claremont Parkway

Saturday, August 3
Crotona Park (Presented by City Parks Foundation SummerStage)
Crotona Avenue & Claremont Parkway

Tuesday, August 20
Orchard Beach
One Orchard Beach Road

Wednesday, August 21
Orchard Beach
One Orchard Beach Road

Brooklyn

Sunday, July 14
Herbert Von King Park, Brooklyn (Presented by City Parks Foundation SummerStage)
Lafayette Avenue and Marcy Avenue

Friday, August 9
Wingate Park, Brooklyn
Brooklyn Avenue Between Winthrop Street & Rutland Road

Saturday, August 10
Wingate Park, Brooklyn
Brooklyn Avenue Between Winthrop Street & Rutland Road

Sunday, August 11
Wingate Park, Brooklyn
Brooklyn Avenue Between Winthrop Street & Rutland Road, Brooklyn, NY

Manhattan

Sunday, July 21
SummerStage in Central Park, Manhattan (Presented by City Parks Foundation SummerStage)
Rumsey Playfield, 71st Street & 5th Avenue

Saturday, August 3
Apollo Theatre, Manhattan
253 West 125th Street

Queens

Saturday, August 24
Roy Wilkins Park, Queens
Merrick Boulevard & Baisley Boulevard

Sunday, August 25
Roy Wilkins Park, Queens
Merrick Boulevard & Baisley Boulevard

Staten Island

Saturday, August 11
Stapleton Waterfront Park (Presented by City Parks Foundation SummerStage)
Water Street & Prospect Street

Wednesday, August 14
Midland Beach Parking Lot 8
Father Capodanno Boulevard and Hunter Avenue

Thursday, August 15
Midland Beach Parking Lot 8
Father Capodanno Boulevard and Hunter Avenue

The Rise Up NYC concert series will amplify local artists, encourage New Yorkers to support local small businesses near the concert venues, and provide the opportunity for New Yorkers, especially young New Yorkers, to come together to support non-violent solutions to conflicts across the city. This comes as Mayor Adams kicked off in June the city’s “Summer of Possibility,” a celebration of New York City’s unrivaled summer offerings at a time when crime is down, jobs are up, and the city is more livable than when the Adams administration came into office.

For more information about the concert series, including a list of artists that will be updated as each event gets closer, visit the Rise Up NYC website and City Parks Foundation website.

MAYOR ADAMS CELEBRATES $160 MILLION INVESTMENT IN BROWNSVILLE RECREATION CENTER, ADDITIONAL MAINTENANCE WORKERS AT 62 PARKS TO IMPROVE QUALITY OF LIFE ACROSS FIVE BOROUGHS

City to Fully Rebuild 70-Year-Old Brownsville Recreation Center, NYC Parks to Open Temporary Brownsville Spaces During Construction

NYC Parks to Hire 240 Additional “Second Shift” Staff to Add Weekend, Evening Cleaning to 100 Hotspots at 62 Parks in All Five Boroughs

Announcement Follows On-Time, Balanced, and Fiscally-Responsible $112.4 Billion Adopted Budget That Invests in Future of New York City

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi, and New York City Department of Parks and Recreation (NYC Parks) Commissioner Sue Donoghue today celebrated major investments in New York City’s public parks and facilities as part of an on-time, balanced, and fiscally-responsible $112.4 billion Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Adopted Budget that addresses the city’s affordability crisis head-on and invests in the future of the city and the working-class people who make New York the greatest city in the world. The FY25 Adopted Budget ensures parks have what they need to engage New Yorkers and attract tourists and other visitors, as a critical part of the city’s economic and social wellbeing, as well as to improve healthy lifestyles. After making multiple investments in New York City’s parks, including in the Parks Opportunity Program (POP) that gives thousands of low-income New Yorkers six-month paid opportunities and training programs each year and help maintain and operate New York City parks and facilities, Mayor Adams and the City Council went even further in the FY25 Adopted Budget by investing $160 million to fully rebuild the 70-year-old Brownsville Recreation Center, providing a brand-new, state-of-the art recreation center in the heart of Brooklyn. Additionally, thanks to a $15 million city investment, NYC Parks will hire an additional 240 full-time maintenance and operations staff to provide a second shift of cleaning service at 100 hotspots at 62 public parks in all five boroughs.

Last month, the City Council voted to pass the FY25 Budget. After the budget handshake announcement, New Yorkers from across the city, including parks advocates, praised the budget for its wide-ranging investments that help protect public safety, rebuild the economy, and make New York City more affordable and livable. Funding for this “second shift” is baselined in the FY25 Adopted Budget.

“We came into office with a clear mission: protect public safety, rebuild our economy, and make our city more affordable and livable for working-class New Yorkers. And providing New Yorkers with clean, vibrant public spaces, particularly in neighborhoods like Brownsville that have long been overlooked, helps us continue to deliver on that mission,” said Mayor Adams. “Our $160 million investment in the Brownsville Recreation Center will transform this 70-year-old complex into a state-of-the-art community space in the heart of Brooklyn. And because we’re focused on keeping our public spaces clean, too, we’re investing $15 million in a second cleaning shift at parks in all five boroughs. We came into office promising a safer, cleaner, more livable city that is equitable and affordable. The new Brownsville Recreation Center and cleaner parks are the next steps forward in our mission.”

“This historic resourcing of $160 million to the Brownsville Recreation Center is an investment that underscores our commitment to our neighbors in Brownsville and the vital role that community centers fill across the city,” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “As we prioritize the array of resident needs and especially work to prevent gun violence in community-based settings, this historic contribution to fully rebuild the 70-year-old Brownsville Recreation Center honors the need for safe spaces, improved facilities, and expansive programming as we build a brand-new, state-of-the art recreation center in the heart of Brownsville.”

“New Yorkers across the five boroughs deserve public recreation spaces that feel safe and welcoming. This investment in the Brownsville Recreation Center and 62 parks citywide, helps the Adams administration deliver them,” said Deputy Mayor Joshi. “When people walk into their local recreation center or take their kids to play in a park, they should be able to feel the care and attention that has gone into those spaces — a symbol of a city that is joyful, safe, and attended to. My deep thanks to Commissioner Donoghue and the members of City Council who advocated for these investments and made them possible.”

“The city’s $160 million investment to reconstruct Brownsville Recreation Center will provide Brooklynites with a new, state-of-the-art recreation facility that will serve generations to come,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Donoghue. “In addition, baselined funding for ‘second shift’ cleaning will ensure our most heavily used parks citywide are clean and safe. Along with the recently announced initial investment of $3.2 billion for our Vital Parks plan to bolster the city’s living infrastructure, we’re advancing our mission of providing accessible, safe, and well-maintained public spaces for all.”

“Congratulations to Mayor Adams for allocating $160 million in city funds to fully transform the Brownsville Recreation Center and to NYC Parks for this major investment that will allow them to continue to serve the people of Brooklyn, and all across the five boroughs,” said New York City Department of Design and Construction (DDC) Commissioner Thomas Foley. “These renovations will greatly benefit the seniors, adults and youth who visit this community hub. We are already working with NYC Parks on the Mary Cali Dalton Recreation Center in Staten Island, the Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center in Brooklyn, and two new recreation centers in the Bronx. We look forward to collaborating with NYC Parks again to turn this 70-year-old center into a state-of-the-art facility.”

“On behalf of the Brownsville community, I would like to publicly thank Mayor Adams and his administration for this righteous, long-needed funding to the Brownsville Recreation Center,” said AT Mitchell-Mann, co-chair, Gun Violence Prevention Task Force. “The Brownsville Recreation Center is a staple in the Brownsville community. It has served generations of families with dignity and honor for decades. With this much needed financial commitment, it will assure that the legacy of the Brownsville Recreation Center will be around for more generations to come. This is what true gun violence prevention looks like. This is what we mean when we say, ‘Brownsville Never Ran, Never Will.’”

“Our parks and recreation centers are the hearts of communities and provide critical resources for the social, physical, and mental health for all,” said Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu. “The investment in the Brownsville Recreation Center and additional cleaning to our city’s parks affirms the Adams administration’s commitment to improving quality of life through vibrant public spaces.”

Brownsville Recreation Center

The Brownsville Recreation Center first opened as a city facility in 1955. In 2016, then-Mayor Bill de Blasio announced a $20 million selective reconstruction of the center; preliminary work on the center found significant damage and deterioration requiring a partial closure (including the indoor pool and the gymnasium) and a complete demolition and reconstruction of the center. The new facility will be designed with extensive input from the Brownsville community, and NYC Parks will work with DDC to build the new space quickly and cost-efficiently. While the recreation center is closed for the multi-year demolition, planning, design, and construction period, NYC Parks will open interim spaces in Brownsville to ensure residents continue to have uninterrupted access to the classes and resources that NYC Parks’ recreation centers provide.

This investment builds on the Adams administration’s commitment to investing in under-resourced communities like Brownsville that have been ignored for decades. In July 2023, Mayor Adams and the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force released “A Blueprint for Public Safety,” with over $485 million in investments to offer early interventions for young people, increase employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, improve housing security, provide easier access to public benefits, bolster community institutions, foster connections to mental health services, and strengthen police-community relations. Those investments are focused on six precincts that experience a disproportionate level of gun violence, including precincts covering Brownsville and East New York. Additionally, in March 2024, Mayor Adams launched Jobs NYC, a new multi-pronged citywide effort to reduce barriers to economic opportunities and deliver workforce development services directly to communities across the five boroughs that are experiencing high unemployment. That effort includes monthly hiring halls in every borough in areas experiencing employment disparities, connecting New Yorkers to private- and public-sector jobs.

Second Shift

NYC Parks’ second shift program targets 100 hot spots in 62 parks throughout the five boroughs for an additional shift of cleaning services on weekends and in the evenings to improve cleanliness and quality of life. This deployment of 240 new maintenance and operations staff will work from Thursday to Monday to create cleaner parks and public restrooms, while also fighting the scourge of rodents in New York City. It also builds on the Adams administration’s historic commitment to citywide cleanliness, including through the “Trash Revolution” — the administration’s ongoing effort to get black trash bags off of New York City streets and into containers. As of November 12, 2024, Mayor Adams and New York City Department of Sanitation Commissioner Jessica Tisch will have required the city to containerize 70 percent of New York City’s 14 billion pounds of annual trash. This feat has been accomplished in just over two years’ time, reversing 50 years of municipal mismanagement that saw mountains of black trash bags lining streets and attracting rats.

Thanks to the Adams administration’s ongoing strong fiscal management, which was bolstered by better-than-expected revenue growth, the administration overcame unprecedented challenges in this budget cycle to stabilize the city’s financial outlook and close a $7.1 billion budget gap. Because of steady, decisive decision making, the FY25 Adopted Budget allows the Adams administration and the City Council to reinvest in initiatives and programs that protect public safety, rebuild the city’s economy, and make the city more affordable and livable for working-class New Yorkers. As part of the budget agreement, the Adams administration and the City Council joined together to pass a collaborative budget that addresses the three things that cost New Yorkers the most — housing, childcare, and health care — and invests billions of dollars of city resources in critical areas, including early childhood education, libraries, parks, public safety, housing, health care, transit, cultural institutions, and more.

“Investing in our city’s future means investing in our communities. I commend Mayor Adams and Deputy Mayor Meera Joshi for this commitment to rebuild the historic Brownsville Recreation Center, and enhancing sanitation services across 62 parks citywide,” said New York State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud. “These investments reflect our dedication to a cleaner, safer, and more vibrant New York City.”

“The Brownsville Recreation Center has been central to the fabric of my community for decades. It has been a safe haven for 70 years. More recently, it served as a food distribution center at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic and as a learning lab for students to stay connected to their schoolwork remotely,” said New York State Assemblymember Latrice Walker. “The staff has been working out of the Golden Age wing of the building, while the main part of the building, including the gym and swimming pool, is closed for repairs. The city’s investment in the complete renovation of the BRC is welcome news that I cannot wait to share with the community of Brownsville where I was born and raised.”

“Today we celebrate a major win for the Brownsville Community. Our adopted budget creates an historic $160 million rebuilding of the Brownsville Recreation center, a state-of-the-art facility that will become an unprecedented hub of community activity in the heart of Brooklyn,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “In addition to this facility’s investment, we celebrate the innovative $15 million ‘Second Shift’ program to hire additional staff for more weekend and evening cleanings in the NYC Parks system. This will create cleaner, safer, and healthier conditions at some of New York City’s most popular hotspots. These sensible and fiscally prudent investments demonstrate how our adopted $112.4 billion balanced budget is working to revitalize communities across our city.”

“It’s a great day for Brooklyn when community spaces get much needed upgrades,” said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. “The Brownsville Recreation Center offers space for central Brooklyn residents to cool off during the summer and to stay mentally and physically active and engaged throughout the year. I am thankful to Mayor Adams and NYC Parks for this $160 million investment which gives Brownsville residents the updated center they deserve.”

“Today is a historic day in the Brownsville section of the 42nd Council District, where this announcement of a $160 million dollar investment into this 70-year-old structure is more than just the rehabilitation of a 70-year-old building,” said New York City Councilmember Chris Banks. “The Brownsville Recreation Center isn’t just a building where youth come to play basketball, participate in media skills programming, learn to garden, and so much more. It isn’t just a building where seniors come to do Zumba, play pickleball, or participate in other programs that keep them healthy and active. The Brownsville Recreation Center, affectionately known by many in this community as BRC is a place whereas the late great Greg “Jocko” Jackson would say, “Hope is inside!” Today’s announcement is a testament to the legacy of that hope. In a community that unfortunately sees more negative stories than we would want, today’s announcement is a bright and positive sign that hope is truly inside! This capital investment of $160 million is a message to those in the Brownsville community that this is our community, and we will continue investing in that community, creating beacons of health and wellness, beacons of positivity, beacons of excellence, and beacons of that same hope, that Jocko said is inside. I look forward to working toward making our Brownsville community brighter, better and stronger through efforts like this investment.”

“Brownsville Recreation Center has always been more than just a recreational facility; it is a symbol of community strength and solidarity,” said Dr. Frank Mason, second generation member, Brownsville Old Timers Committee. “Generations of parents and their children have walked through its doors, finding not only a place to exercise and engage in activities, but also a sense of belonging and a commitment to helping others. The center has fostered a spirit of cooperation and mutual support, instilling values that resonate far beyond its walls.”

“The Brownsville Recreation Center has been the oasis of the Brownsville community for over 30 years and our home for arts and culture programming for over 10 years,” said Nicole Williams, founder and CEO, Victory Music & Dance Company Inc. “Victory Music & Dance Company looks forward to the newly renovated facility that will continue to provide a rich holistic environment and safe haven for the youth in Brownsville and its surrounding communities.”

“The Brownsville Recreation Center stands as the only multi-service recreation center in Brownsville,” said Decosta Headley, founder, D.R.E.A.M Foundation. “The neighboring communities of East New York and Canarsie also find its residents utilizing the facilities and amenities at the recreation center. Thanks to the hardworking dedicated staff and the supportive community of the Brownsville Recreation Center, many beautiful occurrences that produced great people in entertainment and sports have benefited from the leadership of the recreation center. Thank you for rebuilding a staple and legacy for the people of Brownsville, Brooklyn.”

MAYOR ADAMS, SANITATION COMMISSIONER TISCH UNVEIL FIRST-EVER OFFICIAL NYC BIN FOR TRASH PICK UP, RELEASE TIMELINE FOR RESIDENTIAL CONTAINERIZATION OF ALL ONE TO NINE UNIT BUILDINGS

NYC Bin — Cheapest Bin of its Quality — Available for Purchase Online

Containerization Requirement for Buildings with One to Nine Residential Units to Go Into Effect November 12, 2024

As of November 12, Administration Will Have Containerized 70 Percent of New York City’s 14 Billion Annual Pounds of Trash in Two Years

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) Commissioner Jessica Tisch today symbolically set Gracie Mansion’s trash and recycling out at the curb, marking the next step in relegating New York City’s once-omnipresent mountains of black trash bags to the dust bin of history. This waste was the first to be set out in the first-ever official NYC Bin, now available online. The new official NYC Bin is equipped with wheels and a secure latching lid, and is the cheapest bin of its quality available, with prices below $50 for the most common size. Additionally, Mayor Adams today also announced that DSNY has put forth a proposed rule requiring that all buildings with one to nine residential units and all special use buildings that receive DSNY collection (e.g. city agency buildings, houses of worship, and professional offices located within residential buildings) put their trash in containers, effective November 12, 2024.

“Today, we are tossing even more black bags into the dustbin of history and taking the next step forward in our ‘Trash Revolution,’” said Mayor Adams. “The first-ever, official NYC Bin is high-quality, affordable, and will build on our efforts containerizing more than 70 percent of the city’s trash to protect our most valuable and limited resource — our public space.”

“NYC-branded wheeled containers, custom designed to work with our trucks, are the key to keeping our most precious real estate — New York City sidewalks — clear,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “With over 70 percent of New York City’s trash contained, the Adams administration and the hardworking men and women of DSNY are defying the odds and the naysayers and winning the ‘Trash Revolution.’”

“Many property owners already use bins for their trash — and pay over $100 retail in order to keep the streets clean,” said DSNY Commissioner Tisch. “Well, we’ve got great news: at the same time that we’re moving to require containerization of trash for all buildings with one to nine residential units, we’re unveiling the official ‘NYC Bin’ — beautiful, durable, and less than $50 for the most common size.”

Bins
The new NYC Bin. Credit: New York City Department of Sanitation

The new official NYC Bin is the cheapest bin of its quality available; similarly durable bins with wheels and a secure, latching lid are sold in retail stores for almost three times the price. These savings were achieved through an innovative contracting mechanism in which one vendor is held to a low price in exchange for exclusivity.

Many lower-density residential buildings and special-use buildings already use bins to set out their trash, and the rule provides a period of more than 18 months during which they may continue to use bins they already have, provided those bins are 55 gallons or less and have a latching lid to keep rats out. Thanks to this program, replacing those bins when they wear out just became vastly more affordable, significantly reducing costs for small property owners.

Effective June 1, 2026, those buildings will be required to use the official NYC Bin to facilitate faster, safer, cleaner mechanized collection with rear-loading “tipper” garbage trucks. Any property owner or manager covered by the rule who does not currently have a bin is encouraged to purchase the official NYC Bin, as this bin is far cheaper than anything of its quality sold in retail stores. While the requirements of this new rule only cover trash and compostable material, matching green (paper) and blue (metal, glass, plastic, cartons) NYC Bins are also available for purchase for any property owner or manager who prefers a matched set. Bins should be ordered by October 1 to guarantee delivery before the new containerization requirement goes into effect on November 12.

Implementation of the rule will include a warning period extending through the end of 2024, with issuance of fines to commence on January 2, 2025. As with existing commercial containerization requirements, the fine for leaving trash on New York City streets rather than in a secure bin of 55 gallons or less is $50 for a first offense, $100 for a second offense, and $200 for a third offense and each thereafter. DSNY will engage in substantial outreach this summer around these new rules, including through mailers, door to door canvassing, community and ethnic media outreach, and work with community boards and civic associations.

The “Trash Revolution” Thus Far

The launch of pre-orders for the official NYC Bin and the rule mandating low-density containerization are the latest steps in the rapid rethinking of the relationship between 8.3 million New Yorkers and 14 billion annual pounds of trash — an undertaking collectively known as the “Trash Revolution” — that has led to record-breaking reductions in rat sightings.

In October 2022, the Adams administration kicked off the Trash Revolution by changing set-out times for both residential and commercial waste from 4:00 PM — one of the earliest set-out times in the country — to 8:00 PM in April 2023, while also allowing earlier set-out if the material is in a container. This incentivization of containerization was paired with major changes to DSNY operations, picking up well over a quarter of all trash at 12:00 AM rather than 6:00 AM, particularly in high density parts of the city, and ending a practice by which up to one-fifth of trash had been purposefully left out for a full day.
Later that month, DSNY published its “Future of Trash” report, the first meaningful attempt to study containerization models in New York City, and the playbook to get it done.
Last August, containerization requirements went into effect for all food-related businesses in New York City. These businesses — restaurants, delis, bodegas, bars, grocery stores, caterers, etc. — produce an outsized amount of the type of trash that attracts rats.
That same month, installation of the initial 10-block, 14-school Manhattan Community Board 9 pilot containers began.
Last September, commercial containerization requirements extended to chain businesses of any type with five or more locations in New York City. These chain businesses tend to produce a large total volume of trash.
This past February, Mayor Adams and Commissioner Tisch unveiled a new, automated, side-loading garbage truck and a new data-driven containerization strategy, affirming a commitment from Mayor Adams’ 2024 State of the City address to set New York City on the course to store all trash put out for pickup in containers.
On March 1, 2024, container requirements went into effect for all businesses — of every type — in New York City to get their trash off the streets and into a secure bin.
On November 12, 2024, container requirements will go into effect for low-density residential buildings — those with one to nine units. At that point, approximately 70 percent of all trash in the city will be containerized. New Yorkers can purchase the official NYC Bin online starting today, and use of that specific low-cost bin will become required in June 2026.
In the spring of 2025, installation of stationary on-street containers will begin in Manhattan Community Board 9 for the first full-district containerization pilot, serviced by new automated side-loading trucks.
“The NYC Bin adds another instrumental tool in New York City’s rat mitigation toolkit,” said Director of Citywide Rodent Mitigation Kathleen Corradi. “With this next step in the Department of Sanitation’s ‘Trash Revolution,’ New York City continues its efforts to systematically deny rats a curbside buffet and get black bags off our streets.”

“The New York City Department of Sanitation is on a roll and rats are on the run, thanks to the Adams administration’s continued expansion of waste containerization,” said “New” New York Executive Director B.J. Jones. “New Yorkers can hold their heads high instead of holding their noses as Commissioner Tisch, the DSNY team, and Rat Czar Corradi bring cleaner curbs and a better quality of life to every neighborhood.”

Resources

NYCJobs: Get free career training and help finding a job in government or the private sector.

Food Help NYC: Free food locations including food pantries & soup kitchens.

NYC 988: NYC 988 is your connection to free, confidential crisis counseling, mental health and substance use support, information and referrals. You can reach the toll-free help line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone, text and online chat.

Buildings After Hours: Free in-person information session with DOB staff every first and third Tuesday of the month from 4 PM to 7 PM at your local borough office.

Notify NYC: Enroll for free in New York City’s dedicated emergency public communications program.

311: Non-emergency municipal services available online, by texting 311-692, or by calling 3-1-1 from within the City or 212-NEW-YORK outside the five boroughs. TTY service is also available by dialing 212-504-4115.

Additional Resources:

Food Help NYC: Free food locations including food pantries & soup kitchens.

Buildings After Hours: Free in-person information session with DOB staff every first and third Tuesday of the month from 4 PM to 7 PM at your local borough office.

Notify NYC: Enroll for free in New York City’s dedicated emergency public communications program.

MAYOR ADAMS LAUNCHES NEW PODCAST: ‘GET STUFF DONE-CAST

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today launched a new podcast — the ‘Get Stuff Done-Cast’ — a twice-monthly podcast where he will interview New Yorkers from all walks of life about the problems the city faces and the solutions to be found in the heart, hustle, humor, and heroics of the greatest city in the world. Mayor Adams also gave a sneak peek of today’s episode to New Yorkers who already signed up to receive direct communications from the city about new initiatives and policies, local events, and more. Episodes of the podcast will be available across podcast platforms including Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Podcasts, Apple, and more.

“We vowed to build an administration that talks directly to — and hears directly from — the people we serve, and that’s exactly what the new ‘Get Stuff Done-Cast’ will help us do,” said Mayor Adams. “Sign up to hear directly from me and from New Yorkers from all walks of life on how we’re actually ‘Getting Stuff Done’ for our city.”

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON JOINS PARTNERS IN CELEBRATION OF PUERTO RICAN HERITAGE MONTH

Bronx, NY – On Thursday, November 14, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson joined Bronx Care Health System, Ponce Bank, Fidelis Care, and ProHealth Connect to host her Puerto Heritage Month event at the newly opened 14,000-square-foot, 250-seat Bronx Music Hall located at 438 East 163rd Street in the Melrose section. There, Borough President Gibson honored several Bronx pioneers and architects of a revitalized and flourishing Bronx, now serving as a cultural mecca attracting thousands of tourists and New Yorkers alike traveling in to enjoy the rich heritage, cuisine, and burgeoning arts community found in New York City’s northern-most borough. Twenty-three-time Emmy award-winning Telemundo Anchor and Reporter David Rodriguez, who spent part of his childhood growing up in the Bronx, served as the emcee.

“It is with immense pride that we celebrate Puerto Rican Heritage Month at the newly opened Bronx Music Hall, honoring individuals who have left an indelible impact on our borough,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “Our communities have thrived thanks to the extraordinary contributions of our Puerto Rican brothers and sisters, and we are honored to recognize and celebrate that vibrant legacy right here in the heart of the Boogie Down.”

This year’s honorees are Puerto Rican-born community advocate and Founder of the Rainbow Garden of Life + Health, Maximino “Maxi” Rivera; Culinary Educator & Celebrity Chef, Chef Billy Jack Perez; Crain’s New York Business’s 2021 Most Notable Women on Wall Street, Executive Vice-President and Chief External Affairs Officer at Ponce Bank, Madelyn V. Marquez, Co-Talent Coordinator for The 116^th Street Festival, Jerry Vargas, Bronx Business owner and Philanthropist, Gino Pacheco, and youth honoree, Ambar Cardona, a junior enrolled at Bronx Legacy’s Future Ready NYC Business Marketing program.

The event featured the Young Ambition Dance Company, Estrellita’s Latinas Culturales from P.S. 42, NYPD Options Youth Program’s La Jara Youth All Stars, Kaila Bule y Atabeira Libete Our Art curator, Robert “BC” Figueroa, a reading by Puerto Rican Poet Jennifer Diaz, and more.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON JOINS PARTNERS IN CELEBRATION OF PUERTO RICAN HERITAGE MONTHLTS

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON’S STATEMENT ON 2024 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION RESULTS

“The outcome of this 2024 Presidential election represents a stark divide. It’s a sobering reminder of the work we need to do to bridge these divides and ensure that our voices are heard. As we move forward, we must remain vigilant and committed to advocating for our residents.”

“Regardless of who serves as Commander-in-Chief, we will continue to work with our local, state, and federal partners to protect the rights of our families and ensure that our community’s needs are prioritized. In these times of uncertainty, it’s vital that we come together, regardless of political affiliation, to safeguard our residents’ rights and well-being. Our strength lies in our unity, and we must not allow divisiveness to distract us from the work at hand.”

“I urge each and every one of you to stay engaged and informed. Civic participation is crucial as we navigate the challenges ahead. Together, we can advocate for the priorities that matter most to our community, ensuring that our voices are amplified and our rights protected. Let us stand together, remain focused on our goals, and work towards a brighter future for all.”

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON JOINS PARTNERS IN CELEBRATION OF PUERTO RICAN HERITAGE MONTH

Bronx, NY – On November 14, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson joins Bronx Care Health System, Ponce Bank, Fidelis Care, and ProHealth Connect to host Puerto Heritage Month at the newly opened 14,000 square-foot, 250-seat Bronx Music Hall located in the Melrose section. There, she will honor several Bronx pioneers and architects of a revitalized and flourishing Bronx, now serving as a cultural mecca attracting thousands of tourists and New Yorkers alike traveling in to enjoy the rich heritage, cuisine, and burgeoning arts community found in New York City’s northern-most borough.

This year’s honorees are Puerto Rican-born community advocate and Founder of the Rainbow Garden of Life + Health, Maximo “Maxi” Rivera; Culinary Educator & Celebrity Chef, Chef Billy Jack Perez; Crain’s New York Business’s 2021 Most Notable Women on Wall Street, Executive Vice-President and Chief External Affairs Officer at Ponce Bank, Madelyn V. Marquez, Co-Talent Coordinator for The 116^th Street Festival, Jerry Vargas, Bronx Business owner and Philanthropist, Gino Pacheco.

The event will feature Bomba and Plena performers, a reading by Puerto Rican Poet Jennifer Diaz, and more.

WHAT: Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson joins Bronx Care Health System, Ponce Bank, Fidelis Care, and ProHealth Connect to host Puerto Heritage Month at the newly opened 14,000-square-foot, 250-seat Bronx Music Hall located in the Melrose section.

WHEN: Thursday, November 14, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.

WHERE: Bronx Music Hall 438 East 163^rd Street, Bronx, NY 10451

Dear Neighbor,

Thank you for joining us for another week in review.

New York City is currently under a drought watch and we are urging our neighbors to help us in this effort to conserve our water usage. Please report any open fire hydrants or street leaks to 311, as one open hydrant can waste over 1,000 gallons of water per minute—resulting in a staggering 1.4 million gallons of drinking water lost every 24 hours. Every effort counts, and we all have a role to play in protecting our water supply. For additional water-saving tips, please visit https://www.nyc.gov/site/dep/water/water-saving-tips.page.

We also want to remind all eligible Bronx residents that the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) application is now open. This program helps low- and middle-income households, as well as older adults, lower their energy costs and keep their homes warm during the cold winter months. If you or someone you know may benefit from this important initiative, we encourage you to apply today at ny.gov/heat.

Lastly, we hope you will join us tomorrow at 5:30 PM at the Bronx Music Hall as we celebrate Puerto Rican Heritage Month! The evening will include special performances and a celebration of the vibrant Puerto Rican culture in our borough.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our office at 718-590-3500 or email us at webmail@bronxbp.nyc.gov.

I want to thank every one of our residents who participated in our democracy by voting in Tuesday’s election. Your engagement at the polls is vital, and it reflects our collective commitment to shaping the future of our communities. Regardless of who serves as Commander-in-Chief, we will continue to work with our local, state, and federal partners to protect the rights of our families and ensure that our community’s needs are prioritized.

Our strength lies in our unity, and we must not allow divisiveness to distract us from the work at hand. I encourage all of you to take the next step in your involvement by joining your local community board, getting involved with your precinct council, or exploring other opportunities to contribute to our neighborhood.

In these times of uncertainty, it’s vital that we come together, regardless of political affiliation, to safeguard our residents’ rights and well-being.

Starting at the beginning of this week, New York City is officially under a drought watch. We are asking all of our water users to please conserve water and to follow these important tips.

Report open fire hydrants and street leaks to 311. An open hydrant can release more than 1,000 gallons per minute, which wastes 1.4 million gallons of drinking water in a 24-hour cycle.

Don’t flush the toilet unnecessarily. According to the EPA, toilets are by far the main source of water use in a home, accounting for nearly 30 percent of an average home’s indoor water consumption. Each flush can use 1.6 gallons, with older models using as much as 6 gallons.

Take shorter showers, saving five to seven gallons a minute. When taking a bath, fill the tub only halfway and save 10 to 15 gallons.

Don’t run the tap while shaving, washing hands, or brushing teeth. Faucets use two to three gallons per minute.

Fix leaks. A leaky faucet that drips at the rate of one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons per year, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Run the dishwasher and washing machine only when full. Use short cycles if available. Turn off the water while washing dishes.

Lastly, join us on Thursday, November 14th from 10am – 2pm at Borough Hall for our free Shredding event in partnership with Assembly Member Landon Dais and DSNY, and then our Annual Celebration of Puerto Rican Heritage at the Bronx Music Hall – doors open at 5:30pm.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our office at 718-590-3500 or email us at webmail@bronxbp.nyc.gov.

In partnership,

In light of the recent fire in the Belmont area of the Bronx, we want to ensure everyone is prepared and informed. Here are some essential fire safety tips to help you and your loved ones stay safe and take precautionary measures in case of an emergency:

1. Install and Maintain Smoke Detectors

Ensure smoke detectors are installed in every room and hallway, especially in older apartment buildings. Test alarms monthly, and report malfunctioning detectors to building management if you’re renting.

2. Plan Your Escape Route

Know multiple ways out of your building or apartment, especially in high-rise buildings. Ensure fire escapes are accessible, and never block windows or doors. Practice fire drills with family members.

3. Be Cautious with Space Heaters

In colder months, space heaters are common in Bronx apartments. Keep heaters at least 3 feet away from anything flammable and never leave them unattended.

4. Avoid Overloading Electrical Outlets

Bronx buildings may have older electrical systems. Avoid overloading outlets or using extension cords with multiple devices to reduce the risk of electrical fires.

5. Report Hazardous Conditions

If you notice faulty wiring, blocked fire escapes, or malfunctioning fire alarms in your building, report these issues immediately to your landlord, building management, or 311 for prompt action.

Early voting is now open, giving you the chance to beat the Election Day rush and have your say in shaping our community’s future. Whether it’s local leadership or important ballot measures, every vote makes a difference. Don’t wait—head to your nearest polling site and cast your ballot early! Together, we can build a brighter future for the Bronx.

Quality of life issues were addressed with the Department of Sanitation (DSNY) to ensure our community stays clean and safe. Please remember to call 311 to report any sanitation concerns or issues in your area, as this remains a top priority for us.

Spooky season isn’t over just yet! Join us for our Annual Pumpkin Patch Party with the 40th Precinct! Get ready for a fun-filled afternoon on Thursday, October 31st, from 3 PM to 7 PM at 567 East 149th Street and St. Ann’s Avenue. Bring your family and friends to enjoy a festive atmosphere with pumpkins, games, treats, and community spirit! This is a great opportunity to connect with your neighbors and have some Halloween fun.

Lastly, despite the challenges the Yankees face in the World Series, our unwavering support as fans can make all the difference. Let’s rally behind our team, cheering them on to turn the tide and strive for victory. Together, we can boost their spirits and keep the dream alive!

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our office at 718-590-3500 or email us at webmail@bronxbp.nyc.gov.

In partnership,

Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON RELEASES TOPOGRAPHIC BUREAU'S 2023 ANNUAL DEVELOPMENT REPORT THE BRONX EXPERIENCED THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF INVESTMENT TO DATE, WITH $4.3 BILLION IN TOTAL DEVELOPMENT

Bronx, NY – On Monday, October 28, 2024, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, in conjunction with her 2^nd Annual State of The Borough Address on April 18^th, 2024, joined the Topographic Bureau in releasing their annual development report for 2023, highlighting the most successful year yet in total development funding for the borough.

With over $4.3 Billion dollars of investment across 357 individual properties, the report spotlights total investments made in both mixed-use ($1.5 Billion) and residential development ($1.7 Billion) last year. Notably, over 10,000 new residential housing units were also built in 2023. This is a significant milestone in the face of an ongoing housing crisis city-wide.

“I am very excited about this report, as it showcases the ever-growing level of development and opportunity here in our borough,” said Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “This scale of investment is a positive reflection of our continued effort to revitalize The Bronx. Working together with our development leaders, Bronx businesses, community boards, non-profits, and elected officials, we achieved great economic growth last year and boosted the local economy, created jobs, and further enhanced the quality of life for all Bronx residents.”

A featured development from 2023 is the Penn Access Project, which will create four ADA-accessible Metro-North Railroad stations in Hunts Point, Parkchester/Van Nest, Morris Park, and Co-op City. This large-scale public investment will be the biggest expansion of Metro-North’s service since its founding in 1983.

The 2023 Annual Development Report can be found here (2023 Annual Development Report.pdf).

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON JOINS COUNCIL MEMBER MARMORATO, AND THE MORRIS PARK BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT TO HOST A HALLOWEEN SKATE PARTY

Bronx, NY – On October 25, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, New York City Councilmember Kristy Marmorato, the Morris Park Business Improvement District, PIX11 News, and Founder of Go! Sports NYC Ray Mendez hosted a Halloween Skate Party at Loreto Playground at 1111 Van Nest Avenue between Tomlinson and Haight Avenues.

“I want to thank the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation, the Morris Park Business Improvement District; Go! Sports NYC; New York City Council Member Kristy Marmorato; New York State Senator Nathalia Fernandez; New York State Assembly Member Michael Benedetto; and everyone else who supported our Skate Party this weekend,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “Together, we are fostering connections with our community and encouraging healthy, active lifestyles for our residents.”

“As someone who brings my own daughter to Loreto Playground, I know firsthand how important events and parks are for the families in our community,” said Councilmember Kristy Marmorato. “It means so much to be able to provide this Halloween celebration for our neighbors, creating a space for kids and parents to have fun, skate, and make memories together. And as a rollerskater myself, it’s a joy to share that experience with the community and my own daughter.”

“As a Bronx-based organization, Go Sports NYC is proud to continue working with the Bronx Boro President’s office and bringing our fun-filled skate events to our wonderful communities and the amazing people of the Bronx,” said Ray Mendez, Founder of Go! Sports NYC.

Novice and experienced skaters were invited to attend the event, which featured a live DJ, an Icee vendor providing tasty treats, and Halloween giveaways. Skates and protective equipment were provided courtesy of Go! Sports NYC.

Opened in 1951, Loreto Playground, located in Morris Park, features basketball courts, a playground, an outdoor track, and more.

See the Greater Morris Park application here

See the Harlem River Gateway application here

Bronx, NY – On Friday, October 18, 2024, the application period for the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) program was completed. As part of the application process, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson submitted two applications for the state to consider. One was for the Greater Morris Park area, and the other for the Harlem River Gateway District. Borough President Gibson worked with numerous stakeholders across The Bronx to identify capital projects that would support these communities and benefit from DRI funding.

The Greater Morris Park DRI area has general boundaries of Pelham Parkway to the north, Hutchinson River Parkway to the east, East Tremont Avenue and Westchester Avenue to the south, and Bronx Park and White Plains Road to the west. It includes the neighborhoods of Morris Park, Van Nest, Westchester Square, Indian Village, and Pelham Parkway. Existing Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) within the Greater Morris Park DRI include the Morris Park, Westchester Square, and White Plains Road BIDs. This area is a top 10 job center for New York City and will soon see two new Metro-North stations as part of the Penn Station Access project. A recent rezoning was approved along with $500 million in capital to support the community.

“In my recommendation as part of the rezoning process, I stated my commitment to the Morris Park community, and I am showing that with action,” said Borough President Gibson.

As part of the application, 32 projects were identified, totaling approximately $105 million in capital-requested funding. The wide range of projects includes beautification projects, public park improvements, and transit, traffic, and pedestrian infrastructure projects. In an equally important application, the Harlem River Gateway District has seen a significant influx of new development and investment in recent years, but these increases have also brought additional needs.

“The South Bronx has seen tremendous growth in the past few years, which is a testament to the resiliency and vitality of our borough,” said Borough President Gibson. “It is our mission to ensure this community receives the necessary capital investment to undo years of economic neglect and stimulate continued growth and prosperity.”

The Harlem River Gateway District has general boundaries of the Harlem River to the west, the Harlem River and Bronx Kill to the south, the Bruckner Expressway to the east, and East 149^th Street to the north. It includes the neighborhoods of Mott Haven and Concourse. Over recent years, the Bronx waterfront has been studied, and these studies have helped transform the community into a regional destination.

“With the Yankees, the recently opened Bronx Children’s Museum, and the world’s first Hip Hop Museum opening in 2025, this area has opportunities to draw in visitors year-round,” said Bronx Borough President Gibson. “Between the tourism and all the new housing being developed, residents need places to buy their groceries and do their shopping, so there is a huge need for capital improvements to help support all this new economic activity.”

This application had 14 projects totaling over $61 million in capital-requested funding, including beautification projects, public park improvements, and infrastructure projects.

The 2024 cycle marks the eighth round of DRI applications which will invest $100 million in 10 new communities that will be selected by the Regional Economic Development Council (REDC), with The Bronx being located in the New York City REDC. This program is a cornerstone of the State’s economic development program, led by Governor Kathy Hochul to transform downtown neighborhoods into vibrant centers that offer high quality of life and are magnets for redevelopment, business, job creation, and economic and housing diversity. The Bronx received a previous DRI award in 2018 for the Bronx Civic Center neighborhood.

“I am optimistic that this is the time for The Bronx to receive additional capital investment,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “I am very proud of these two applications and believe state funding would go a long way in supporting these communities.”

While Borough President Gibson has submitted two applications, only one can be awarded to each REDC in any year. This is a competitive process, and multiple applications are expected to be submitted to the New York City REDC.

“This is a competitive process, so we needed to put in a high-quality application, I believe we did that as both have been a labor of love. I will continue to advocate and fight for The Bronx and look for as many capital opportunities as possible to support our great borough,” said Borough President Gibson. “We know both applications cannot receive the award, so we will continue working with community residents and stakeholders to find ways to support them, and I will be applying again for two communities in 2025. I invite all Bronx residents to contact our office if you have capital projects that need support and could be eligible for future DRI funding.”

Borough President Gibson acknowledged support from the elected and community officials who sent letters of support for these applications, including:

For Greater Morris Park: Congressmember Ritchie Torres, State Senator Nathalia Fernandez, State Senator Gustavo Rivera, State Assemblymember Karines Reyes, State Assemblymember John Zaccaro Jr., State Assemblymember Michael Benedetto, City Council Majority Leader Amanda Farias, City Councilmember Kristy Marmorato, and Community Board 10 District Manager Matthew Cruz.

For the Harlem River Gateway District: Congressmember Ritchie Torres, State Senator Jose Serrano, State Assemblymember Amanda Septimo, State Assemblymember Landon Dais, Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala, City Councilmember Rafael Salamanca, Jr., and Community Board 1 District Manager Anthony Jordan.

The winning DRI applications are expected to be announced in early 2025.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON`S STATEMENT ON DOHMH DATA THAT SHOWS CITYWIDE DECREASE IN OPIOID-RELATED DEATHS OPIOID DEATHS IN THE BRONX REMAIN HIGH OPIOID FATALITIES CONTINUE TO DISPROPORTIONATELY IMPACT BLACK AND BROWN NEW YORKERS

Bronx, NY – On Wednesday, October 16, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson hosted her annual celebration of Italian-American Heritage & Culture, “Mese della Cultura Italiana,” at the Schiff Family Great Hall on the grounds of the Bronx Zoo located at 2300 Southern Boulevard.

The honorees this year are Anna Malafronte, Community Relations Manager, The National Italian American Foundation, Phyllis Nastasio, Chair, Bronx Columbus Day Committee, Charles Di Maggio, CEO of Greystone Management Solutions, Tara Cannistraci, Comedian, Maria D’Oro, Senior Recruiter in Human Resources & Staffing at Montefiore Medical Center, and Rachel Trosa, Preston High School received at Youth Award. News 12 The Bronx Anchor Dan Serafin served as emcee for the evening.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON, THE NYS DEPARTMENT OF LABOR & THE BRONX DISABILITY ADVISORY COUNCIL, IN RECOGNIZING NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH, PRESENT THE DREAM JOB FAIR

Bronx, NY – In recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, on Tuesday, October 15^th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., in the Rotunda of Bronx Borough Hall, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, the New York State Department of Labor, the NYC Department of Education’s ACCES-Vocational Rehabilitation (VR), and others, hosted her administration’s first-ever, DREAM Job Fair. In partnering with Bridging Access to Care, Goodtemps, Hereford Insurance Company, and other businesses, the DREAM Job Fair hopes to assist in matching qualified candidates with organizations looking to hire. Others gathered included the Metropolitan Transportation Authority – MTA, New York Edge, New York Life Insurance, NYC Ferry, and the NYPD.

“Today’s DREAM Job Fair is an opportunity to uplift People with Disabilities and remind them that they are valued, that they are supported, that they are worthy, and at the end of the day, critical to the diversity and flourishing of both our workforce and city,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “As we recognize, National Disability Employment Awareness Month, I want to thank the Bronx Borough President’s Disability Advisory Council and the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities for their unwavering commitment and pledge to enhance and elevate the lives of People with Disabilities.”

“At the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities, we are committed to ensuring all New Yorkers regardless of ability, have equal access to meaningful employment opportunities. Events like the Dream Job Fair highlight the critical role inclusion and diversity play in strengthening our workforce and communities,” said NYC MOPD Commissioner Christina Curry. “We applaud the Bronx Borough President for championing this initiative and look forward to continuing our shared mission of advancing employment opportunities for people with disabilities across the city.”

A recent study by the Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York, showed that:

The high school diploma gap between people with and without disabilities is nearly 20 percent. The employment gap between people with and without disabilities of working age is 41 percent and median yearly earnings lag more than $25,000 behind.

People with disabilities are more dependent on public coverage than their nondisabled peers.

People with disabilities are significantly more reliant on Food Stamps than their non-disabled counterparts—there is a Food Stamps gap of 16.0 percentage points.

Thirty-two percent of people with disabilities are living in poverty. Among people living in poverty, the gap between people with disabilities and those without disabilities is 18 percentage points.

BRONX PUERTO RICAN DAY PARADE

The Bronx Puerto Rican Day Parade is excited to relaunch its parade and celebrate our rich heritage and 38 anniversary next week, in the Bronx, NY. Our theme this year is “Celebrando Nuestra Musica Folklorica “Bomba y Plena”, “Celebrating our Folklore Music, Bomba y Plena”.

Many are cheering us on as we will gather together in unity strut the vibrant culture and contributions of the Puerto Rican community. This event will feature a Prestigious Gala on Thursday, October 17th, followed by a grand parade on Saturday, October 19th bringing together thousands of participants and spectators alike. We have major Sponsors that include Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson, Councilmember Rafael Salamanca Jr., Bronx Care, Montefiore/Einstein, Bally’s Golf Links, Metro Plus and MAS Productions.

The Gala will take place at Villa Barone Manor on Thursday, October 17 at 6PM. This elegant evening will celebrate the rich heritage of Puerto Rico and recognize the achievements of outstanding individuals and organizations. Our crowned princesses and Queens court will also be present. The gala will feature a delicious dinner, live entertainment with Special Guest Hip Hop Jibarito and La Herencia de Plena Orchestra with both bands, creating a dancing atmosphere for celebration and pride as well as opportunities for networking.

Following, the parade will take place, on October 19 and will kick off at 11AM, will march through the heart of the Bronx in The Grand Concourse on 164th Street to Mount Eden, showcasing colorful floats, marching bands, cultural performances, and community organizations. The event will honor individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the Puerto Rican community and the borough of the Bronx.

Press Conference Details:

Wednesday, October 19th

Barrio Bx Restaurant

3764 East Tremont Ave.

Bronx, NY

Press Conf: 11a-1p

Honorees:

. Grand Marshall: Assemblywoman, Karines Reyes, Puerto Rican – Hispanic Task Force Inc

· Madrina: State Senator Nathalia Fernandez,

· Public Civil Service Award: Captain Lorraine Perez, NYPD

· Nonprofit Community Advocate: Pilar Maschi, Catalyst City Parks Foundation

· Education of Service Award: Bernie Hernandez, Aspira,

· Union of Excellence Award: Local TWU Local 100

· Business of the Year Award: Barrio BX Restaurant

· Artist of the Year Award: Hip Hop Jibarito – Ariel Cartagena

Winners of Princess and Queens Court & scholarship recipients 2024:
Josephine Celia Serrano – Pueblo de Arecibo
Hailey Miriam Antonetti – Pueblo de Dorado
Maria Mercedes Figueroa Rivera – Pueblo de San Juan
Lisbeth Marie Garcia Calaf – Pueblo de Ponce
Doris Nelva Martinez – Pueblo de Humacao

Quote from A Parade Organizer,
“We are excited to once again bring together the Bronx community and celebrate our Puerto Rican heritage. The parade and gala are opportunities to honor our ancestors, showcase our culture, and strengthen our community bonds.”

For more information about the Bronx Puerto Rican Day Parade and the gala, please visit us on Facebook at Facebook.com/bxprparade or email us at infoprparade@yahoo.com.

Press Conference Details:

Wednesday, October 19th

Barrio Bx Restaurant

3764 East Tremont Ave.

Bronx, NY

Press Conf: 11a-1p

Honorees:

. Grand Marshall: Assemblywoman, Karines Reyes, Puerto Rican – Hispanic Task Force Inc

· Madrina: State Senator Nathalia Fernandez,

· Public Civil Service Award: Captain Lorraine Perez, NYPD

· Nonprofit Community Advocate: Pilar Maschi, Catalyst City Parks Foundation

· Education of Service Award: Bernie Hernandez, Aspira,

· Union of Excellence Award: Local TWU Local 100

· Business of the Year Award: Barrio BX Restaurant

· Artist of the Year Award: Hip Hop Jibarito – Ariel Cartagena

For more information about the Bronx Puerto Rican Day Parade and the gala, please visit us on Facebook at Facebook.com/bxprparade or email us at infoprparade@yahoo.com.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON HOSTS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH KICK-OFF AT BOROUGH HALL

Bronx, NY – On Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at 9:30 a.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson will join Solani Sethi, Acting Commissioner ENDGBV, Agata Digiovanni, Domestic Violence Bureau Chief, Special Victims Division, Office of the Bronx District Attorney, the Urban Resource Institute, DiVA Committee Members, Charito Cisneros, NYC Hispanic Cosmetology and Beauty Chamber of Commerce and others to kick-off Domestic Violence Awareness Month at Bronx Borough Hall. According to a 2023 report, intimate-partner homicides skyrocketed by 225% in Brooklyn and 57% in the Bronx. The Borough President and partner agencies and organizations will share resources to support survivors and information on how they are working collaboratively to reduce domestic violence-related fatalities.

Following the kickoff, the Borough President will host her Annual DiVa Spa (Closed Press) event at 11 AM in the rotunda of Bronx Borough Hall for survivors of domestic violence to enjoy a fully functional spa with free manicures, makeovers, massage and facials, and more. The goal of the event is to create a safe space for Bronx residents to tell their stories and get connected with vital resources such as counseling, legal aid, long-term planning, and more.

Other events during Domestic Violence Awareness Month are:

NYC Go Purple Day of Action

Thursday, October 17, 2024 – All Day

Wear purple to raise awareness about DV and the resources and services available to survivors throughout NYC for DVAM.

New Destiny’s 2nd Annual Domestic Violence Symposium Wednesday, October 23, 2024

9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

The Center

208 W 13th Street

New York, NY 10011.

Volunteers of America Greater New York Domestic Violence Symposium at Lehman College

Wednesday, October 23, 2024

8:30 a.m. – 2:45 p.m.

Please register here.

7th Annual Run/Walk/Roll to End Domestic Violence, hosted by The Bronx District Attorney’s Office, in partnership with the Bronx Borough President’s Office, the Urban Resource Institute, and the New York Yankees

Saturday, October 26, 2024.

9:30 a.m.

Lou Gehrig Plaza

161^st Street between Walton Avenue and the Grand Concourse

The first 500 to register and attend will receive an event t-shirt and a 5K medal. This is a free event, please register here.

Save the Date: DiVA Talk 2024

Tuesday, November 12, 2024

12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Monroe University

2501 Jerome Avenue

Bronx, NY 10468

WHAT: Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson will join Solani Sethi, Acting Commissioner ENDGBV, Agata Digiovanni, Domestic Violence Bureau Chief, Special Victims Division, Office of the Bronx District Attorney, the Urban Resource Institute, DiVA Committee Members, Charito Cisneros, NYC Hispanic Cosmetology and Beauty Chamber of Commerce and others to kick-off Domestic Violence Awareness Month at Bronx Borough Hall.

WHEN: Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at 9:30 a.m.

WHERE: Bronx Borough Hall (851 Grand Concourse)

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON, SPEAKER HEASTIE, ASSEMBLY MEMBER SEPTIMO & NYC HEALTH + HOSPITALS ANNOUNCE $6M ALLOCATION FOR THE BRONX’S FIRST FULL-SERVICE RECOVERY CENTER

Bronx, NY – On Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson joined Speaker of the New York State Assembly, Carl Heastie; New York State Assembly Member Amanda Septimo; President and Chief Executive Officer of New York City Health + Hospitals, Dr. Mitchell Katz; Chief Executive Officer at Lincoln Hospital, Cristina Contreras; and other leaders outside the auditorium of Lincoln Hospital, located at 234 East 149th Street, to announce the combined allocation of $6M for a Bronx Recovery Center. This center will serve as a one-stop shop, tripling the number of patients currently being treated for Opioid Use Disorder in the South Bronx. The announcement fulfills a pledge made during her 2024 State of the Borough Speech to address the alarmingly high number of opioid-related overdose deaths in the Bronx.

According to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, 3,026 New Yorkers died of a drug overdose in 2022, marking a 12% increase from the 2,696 overdose deaths in 2021. Of those, 85% involved an opioid, with fentanyl being the most prevalent. In the Bronx, 831 residents lost their lives to overdoses, compared to 692 in Brooklyn, 469 in Queens, 466 in Manhattan, and 152 in Staten Island. The neighborhoods most affected include Mott Haven, Highbridge, Morrisania, Hunts Point, East Harlem, and Tremont.

Currently, NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln patients being treated for Opioid Use Disorder are referred to NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health Center, Belvis, located at 545 East 142^nd Street where up to 300 individuals can be treated each month. With plans to provide over double the amount of space at NYC H+H/Lincoln, health officials expect to be able to treat three times that amount.

In 2022, 813 Bronx residents died of a drug overdose. This Center will be a space for residents diagnosed with Opioid Use Disorder to get holistic, patient-centered care to decrease the high number of opioid-related overdose deaths in the borough.

“We are experiencing a crisis in the Bronx that requires urgent action and attention as the opioid epidemic continues to impact our communities,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “This epidemic doesn’t just affect those struggling with addiction; it creates ripple effects that impact crime, homelessness, and the overall quality of life in our neighborhoods. I am proud to announce a joint allocation of $6 million with my colleagues in government toward the Lincoln Opioid Recovery and Bridge Clinic, which is a vital step in providing comprehensive treatment and harm reduction services to those in need. By working with our community leaders and health organizations, we can build a support network, increase public awareness, and save lives. We cannot stand by as our loved ones suffer; we must confront this epidemic with urgency and compassion. I want to thank Speaker Carl Heastie; Assembly Member Amanda Septimo; Chief Executive Officer, NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln, Cristina Contreras; NYC Health + Hospitals President and CEO, Mitchell Katz, MD., and everyone else who has played a vital role in supporting the completion of this project.”

“The Lincoln Recover Center will bring a wealth of resources to NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln and make it easier for our patients to access substance use care,” said NYC Health + Hospitals President and CEO Mitchell Katz, MD. “We are deeply grateful to Speaker Heastie, Assemblymember Septimo, and Borough President Gibson for supporting lifesaving substance use care in the South Bronx.”

“We are extremely grateful to Speaker Heastie, Assembly Member Septimo, and Borough President Gibson for this funding,” said Cristina Contreras, LMSW, MPA, FABC, Chief Executive Officer, NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln. “The new recovery center at Lincoln will be almost double the size of the current space, with all services co-located and the ability to provide care for all types of substance use needs and conditions in one space. It will house all of our substance use treatment staff in one location which offers significant benefit to our patients.”

“The opioid epidemic is a complex health crisis that requires a comprehensive response to save lives and support those in recovery,” said NYS Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie. “Today’s announcement of $6 million illustrates our dedication to the betterment of the community at large. By opening a center in the South Bronx, we are bringing necessary resources to vulnerable populations. Thank you to Assemblywoman Septimo for her efforts in securing state funding for this important center and thank you to Borough President Gibson for her continued advocacy. We are stronger when we work together.”

“The establishment of a full-service opioid center in the South Bronx is an important step toward addressing the public health crisis which has plagued our community for decades,” said New York State Assembly Member Amanda Septimo. “I am grateful to Speaker Carl Heastie and all my New York State Assembly colleagues for working with us in this effort to interrupt cycles of suffering and restoring healing in the South Bronx and beyond.”

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON, THE BRONX TOURISM COUNCIL & TRANSPORTATION ALTERNATIVES CELEBRATE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF TOUR DE BRONXBOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON, THE BRONX TOURISM COUNCIL & TRANSPORTATION ALTERNATIVES CELEBRATE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF TOUR DE BRONX

“On October 7th, we witnessed an unimaginable tragedy, where violence erupted and thousands of Israeli civilians and families were lost. Today represents a day of remembrance and reflection to honor the lives of those we lost as we vow to never forget.

In moments like this, we must come together as a City and remember that strength lies in our unity and we must embrace our shared humanity. We must stand with our Jewish community during this time of emotions, grief, sorrow, and compassion for everyone affected.

We have seen far too much hate and violence and increased antisemitism and we must reject hate in all forms and instead foster communities grounded in love and respect.

What we saw in the days and weeks following October 7th, was communities united with our Jewish neighbors standing shoulder to shoulder. I have seen our Borough come together in the spirit of unity, overcoming division and instead building bridges.

As your Borough President, it is my goal to help build a Borough where all people can live, worship, and express themselves without fear. We will continue to work towards a shared community for our children who are the lights that shine as a beacon of hope for a peaceful society.

Let us honor the memory of those loved ones and friends we lost. Let us continue to build bridges. Let us continue to reject hate in all forms. Let us continue to support our Jewish communities and focus on what unites us. Let us continue to demand the return of all the hostages. Let us continue to fight for peace here at home and in Israel.”

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON CELEBRATES HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH IN THE BRONX

Bronx, NY – In recognition of September 15 through October 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, joined Ponce Bank, Essen Healthcare, Havana Café Restaurant, and others, at Bronx Borough Hall located at 851 Grand Concourse in the Rotunda, to pay tribute to Hispanic Americans from the Bronx whose contributions positively influence and enrich us as a Borough, on Thursday, October 3, 2024. The event held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Rotunda of Bronx Borough Hall located at 851 Grand Concourse at 161st Street, was emceed by Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of the Bronx Free Press and Manhattan Times, Debra Lee Santos, with special entertainment provided by JJ Band, DJ Lex, and Stylistics.

Honorees were the Hon. Joaquin Orellano, J.C.C. New York City Civil Court – Bronx County; Luis Gerardo Gonzalez Jr., Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Ponce Bank; Dr. Silvio Goris, Senior Medical Director at Essen Health Care; Daniel Irizarry, ESQ, Court Attorney; David Ortiz, ESQ, Court Attorney; Richard and Claudia Berroa, Owners of Claudy’s Kitchen; and Melissa Valencia, Director of Quality and Risk Management at Essen Health Care. High School Junior, Deylin Pena-Rodriguez, a student at Taft High School received the Youth Award.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON LAUNCHES 31 DAYS OF ACTION IN THE BRONX A DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PUBLIC AWARENESS CAMPAIGN FOR THE MONTH OF OCTOBER

FEATURES EVENTS INCLUDING THE ANNUAL DIVA SPA, AS WELL AS TRAINING, & SOCIAL MEDIA OUTREACH TO HIGHLIGHT CHALLENGES AND PROVIDE STEPS TO REVERSE TRENDS

Bronx, NY – On Tuesday, October 2^nd, 2024, recognized as International Day of Non-Violence, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson was joined by Interim Chief Executive Officer of My Sister’s Place, Denise Durham Williams, Founder of Female Fight Club, Johanna Edmondson, and others at 5900 Riverdale Avenue, for a presentation called, “Breaking the Silence.” With October also recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Borough President Gibson also launched her annual 31 Days of Action For Domestic Violence Awareness Campaign in partnership with the DiVA Coalition, her Domestic and Gender-based Violence Advisory Council, and other groups, to highlight the critical work of Bronx-based organizations, and city agencies working to protect, counsel, educate, and support survivor families while enforcing policy to ensure Bronx residents are equipped with the resources to support their loved ones who might be experiencing DV.

“Violence in any form is unacceptable and creates ripples that affect not just individuals, but entire families and communities, creating cycles of pain that are often difficult to break,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “Raising awareness is crucial and we are here to break the silence! We must create safe spaces and empower survivors to speak up and seek help, reminding them they are never alone. I want to thank Johanna Edmondson, founder of Female Fight Club; Denise Durham Williams, Interim Chief Executive Officer of My Sister’s Place; survivors; advocates; and everyone here committed to ending domestic violence in our communities.”

“Thank you, Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson, for your unwavering support of victims of domestic violence and for being a beacon of hope,” said Johanna Edmondson, Founder of Female Fight Club NYC. “Dozens of us were gathered at the Female Fight Club in solidarity, united in our vision for a future where violence and abuse can no longer thrive in the shadows. Together, we will shine a light of hope, reminding those affected that they are not alone.”

During her 31 Days of Action For Domestic Violence Awareness Campaign, the Borough President will be hosting a series of workshops, trainings, and other events including her signature DiVA Spa scheduled for Wednesday, October 9, 2024, beginning at 9:30 a.m. where visitors will see Bronx Borough Hall’s Veteran’s Memorials Hall Rotunda located at 851 Grand Concourse transformed into a fully functional spa with free manicures, makeovers, massage and facials and more. The goal is to create a safe space for Bronx residents to tell their stories and get connected with vital resources such as counseling, legal aid, long-term planning, and more.

Other events during the Domestic Violence Awareness Month are:

NYC Go Purple Day of Action

Thursday, October 17, 2024 – All Day

Wear purple to raise awareness about DV and the resources and services available to survivors throughout NYC for DVAM.

New Destiny’s 2^nd Annual Domestic Violence Symposium Wednesday, October 23, 2024

9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

The Center

208 W 13th Street

New York, NY 10011.

Volunteers of America Greater New York Domestic Violence Symposium at Lehman College

Wednesday, October 23, 2024

8:30 a.m. – 2:45 p.m.

Please register here.

7th Annual Run/Walk/Roll to End Domestic Violence,

hosted by The Bronx District Attorney’s Office, in partnership with the Bronx Borough President’s Office, the Urban Resource Institute, and the New York Yankees

Saturday, October 26, 2024.

9:30 a.m.

Lou Gehrig Plaza

161^st Street between Walton Avenue and the Grand Concourse

The first 500 to register and attend will receive an event t-shirt and a 5K medal. This is a free event, please register here.

Save the Date: DiVA Talk 2024

Tuesday, November 12, 2024

12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Monroe University

2501 Jerome Avenue

Bronx, NY 10468

Thank you for joining us for another week in review.

The 30th Annual Tour de Bronx bike ride is in just under one week! We want to thank all of the sponsors and media partners who stopped by our press conference yesterday. It was a great way to kick off the festivities! Go to ilovethebronx.com so you register to ride with us on Sunday, October 6th.

We also want to take this time to recognize the passing of Ozzie Virgil Sr. Ozzie was a pioneer in the world of baseball, a 2024 Bronx Walk of Fame inductee, and a symbol of resilience and hope for our community. Ozzie made history as the first Dominican player in Major League Baseball, breaking barriers during a challenging time in our nation’s history. His courage to step onto that field inspired generations of athletes, and he has left an indelible mark on our city. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Virgil family and all those who were touched by his remarkable life and career. May his legacy continue to inspire and remind us of the impact that one person can have in bringing communities together and creating a more inclusive world.

Lastly, a reminder to join us on Thursday, October 3rd at 5:30 PM for our Annual Hispanic Heritage Month celebration at Bronx Borough Hall. We hope to see you there!

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our office at 718-590-3500 or email us at webmail@bronxbp.nyc.gov.

In partnership,

Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson

STATEMENT FROM BRONX BOROUGH PRESIDENT VANESSA L. GIBSON ON THE PASSING OF OZZIE VIRGIL, SR.

“It is with profound sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Ozzie Virgil Sr., a true pioneer in the world of baseball and a symbol of resilience and hope for our community. Ozzie made history as the first Dominican player in Major League Baseball, breaking barriers during a challenging time in our nation’s history. His courage to step onto that field inspired generations of athletes—especially here in the Bronx, where baseball is more than just a sport; it’s a part of our cultural fabric.

Ozzie’s journey from Monte Cristi, Dominican Republic, to the highest level of professional baseball serves as a powerful reminder of what is possible through hard work, perseverance, and unyielding spirit. He didn’t just break records; he shattered stereotypes, opening doors for future generations of Latino players. As a Bronx Walk of Famer, he showed us that, despite the obstacles, we can succeed and blaze a trail for others.

Beyond his accomplishments on the field, Ozzie was a role model—a figure who represented courage, dignity, and community. He was an inspiration not only to Dominican Americans but to everyone who believes in the pursuit of a dream against all odds. His story embodies the values that define our borough: resilience, strength, and the relentless pursuit of progress.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Virgil family and all those who were touched by his remarkable life and career. May his legacy continue to inspire and remind us of the impact that one person can have in bringing communities together and creating a more inclusive world.

Rest in power, Ozzie Virgil Sr. You will forever be remembered as a champion on and off the field, and your legacy will continue to inspire the Bronx and beyond.”

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON`S STATEMENT ON MAYOR ERIC ADAMS

“As there has been a great deal of media attention on City Hall recently, I take this moment to acknowledge the many concerns shared by our residents and community leaders.

I understand and agree that the recent news of the indictment against New York City Mayor Eric Adams is extremely concerning and disappointing. Our Borough and all New Yorkers must have a municipal government that is accountable, effective, and responsive.

Despite this news and the focus on City Hall, as your Borough President, my Administration and I remain committed to ensuring that city government continues to work on our behalf. We deserve nothing less.

I hope that Mayor Eric Adams will prioritize the best interests and needs of all New Yorkers in the next several days and weeks.

We will continue to move our Borough forward working with the Administration focused on what truly matters: the health and wellbeing of New Yorkers and their families. Anything less than that is unacceptable.”

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON AND THE BRONX TOURISM COUNCIL HOST KICK-OFF OF THE 30TH ANNUAL TOUR DE BRONX CYCLING EVENT TOUR DE BRONX: LARGEST FREE CYCLING EVENT IN THE TRI-STATE AREA

Bronx, NY – On Monday, September 30, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, in partnership with The Bronx Tourism Council; the Bronx Economic Development Corporation; Transportation Alternatives; Bronx Terminal Market; Montefiore Einstein, Cricket Wireless, the New York Yankees, and other event sponsors, will host a press conference at Lou Gehrig Plaza on 161^st Street to announce the launch of the 30^th anniversary of the Tour de Bronx cycling event.

In its 30^th year, Tour de Bronx is a signature event in the borough that gives novice and experienced riders an opportunity to take in the natural beauty and scenic views of treasured neighborhoods, coastal communities, historic districts, and more.

At the press conference, the Borough President will share how Bronx residents and visitors can register for the family-friendly 10-mile, intermediate 25-mile, and advanced 40-mile routes that will be available to cyclists on Sunday, October 6, 2024.

Along with City Island and Orchard Beach in the East Bronx, some riders will pedal past the Bronx Walk of Fame and the Riverdale Historic District in the West Bronx, while others will take in the Bronx Greenway, the Longwood, Mott Haven, and Perry Avenue Historic Districts, and more.

Over 4,000 riders registered last year, and an even bigger crowd is expected this year. Registration opened in September and will close on Saturday, October 5th, at 11:00 p.m. For more information, go to ilovethebronx.com.

WHAT: Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, in partnership with The Bronx Tourism Council, the Bronx Economic Development Corporation, Transportation Alternatives, Bronx Terminal Market, Montefiore Einstein, Cricket Wireless, the New York Yankees, and other event sponsors, will host a press conference to announce the launch of the 30^th anniversary of the Tour de Bronx cycling event.

WHEN: Monday, September 30, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

WHERE: Lou Gehrig Plaza — located on 161st Street between the Grand Concourse and Walton Avenue (Rain Location: Bronx Borough Hall – Rotunda – 851 Grand Concourse @ 161st Street).

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON JOINS NYPD AND COMMUNITY LEADERS TO ANNOUNCE FUNDING FOR PUBLIC SAFETY INITIATIVES STATE-OF-THE-ART NYPD SECURITY CAMERAS AND MOBILE COMMAND VAN

Bronx, NY – On Monday, September 23, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson joined NYPD Deputy Chief Keiyon S. Ramsey; the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development; and other leaders on the Steps of Borough Hall at 851 Grand Concourse to announce her FY 2025 allocation of nearly $400,000 for new state-of-the-art surveillance cameras, and a new Mobile Command Van, to support public safety efforts in the borough.

“I am proud to invest $395,000 in our borough`s public safety efforts, which include funding for a borough-wide mobile command unit and security cameras,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “Today`s announcement is a critical part of our ongoing commitment to combat crime and ensure that every resident feels safe in their home and on our streets. Together, we will deploy these cameras strategically, ensuring that they are placed in areas that will have the most impact. Our collaboration with the NYPD will not only help in crime prevention but also in building trust between law enforcement and our communities.”

During the announcement, the Borough President emphasized the need for proactive safety measures and the importance of community involvement in public safety.

The new surveillance cameras will be strategically placed in areas with a significant need to deter crime and assist law enforcement.

The Mobile Command Van will enable the NYPD to respond swiftly to incidents, offering a centralized hub for operations during emergencies.

In addition to the $395,000 allocation, the Borough President also announced funding in her FY`2025 budget for security cameras at select schools in the borough to enhance school safety measures for students and educators.

“While technology is an essential component of our safety strategy, it is not the only one. We need to invest in our youth and provide them with programming that engages, educates, and empowers. By offering our young people constructive activities and mentorship, we can help steer them away from crime and toward success. We also need our colleagues in government and faith-based leaders to join us in this mission. Together, we can create a united front against crime and violence,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson.

“Not only a deterrent, oftentimes cameras may be the only voice a victim has, and can serve as a lead for us to go on when tragic things happen,” said NYPD Deputy Chief Keiyon S. Ramsey. “A good camera system can assist in driving crime down. Somebody will not commit a crime if they look up and see a camera. Obviously, there are people still wearing masks and are hiding from cameras, but overall, neighborhoods do better when there are cameras. I want to thank the Borough President Gibson for this investment in the work that we do in keeping the communities of the Bronx safe.”

“From the streets to our schools, public safety is a top priority of Mayor Adams and agencies like DYCD, which oversees the Office of Neighborhood Safety,” said New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) Commissioner Keith Howard. “Whether working with our Cure Violence partners to keep young people engaged and safe, or our focus on the precincts with the highest levels of gun violence, DYCD is appreciative of initiatives that break down silos, and work toward the common good, we are eager to continue our partnerships with Borough President Gibson and the NYPD, as we work side-by-side to keep New York the safest big city in the nation.”

“We need to prevent violent crime in our community which has been enduring far too many shootings,” said Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark. “Having these cameras and the mobile unit will assist greatly in making our streets safe. The people of the Bronx deserve nothing less. Thank you, Borough President Gibson, for securing the funds to support our police.”

“Public safety has long been a challenge in the Bronx, and unfortunately, recent events have only heightened these concerns,” said New York State Assembly Member Landon Dais. “Recently, we lost two members of our community to gun violence within 24 hours and the perpetrators remain unknown. Borough-wide cameras and mobile command vehicles are crucial steps toward restoring a sense of safety in our neighborhoods. These tools will enhance accountability, promote transparency, and ensure that we do not live in fear. I applaud our Borough President for committing these resources and helping us build a safer, more secure Bronx.”

“I want to thank Borough President Gibson for this much-needed investment in our public safety,” said New York City Council Member Kristy Marmorato. “Our NYPD has long needed these resources, and this funding marks an important step in addressing those needs. I look forward to continuing to work together to ensure that even more resources are allocated to support our public safety, our communities, and our NYPD. This is just the beginning of the investments we need to keep our neighborhoods safe, secure, and thriving.”

“Our city has made progress on the issue of safety, but that progress has not reached every community — including many neighborhoods in the Bronx,” said New York City Council Member Oswald Feliz. “Installing NYPD security cameras is an important step that can help deter and reduce crime and help promote safety in our communities. I applaud Bronx Borough President Gibson for this initiative and look forward to continuing to work to improve safety in the Bronx.”

“I applaud Borough President Vanessa Gibson for her leadership on this important issue,” said New York State Assembly Member Karines Reyes, R.N., Chair of the NYS Assembly & Senate’s Puerto Rican / Hispanic Task Force. “This allocation for security cameras at schools and strategic locations throughout the borough, and for the acquisition of a Mobile Command Unit, will be pivotal in the fight for public safety for Bronxites. I thank her for this critical investment in communities all over the Bronx, like mine, and look forward to more positive outcomes in this area.”

“Public safety is a major concern to the residents of Bronx County,” said Pastor Jay Gooding. “The announcement made today by Madame Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson securing funds to help the NYPD is a phenomenal step in decreasing violence in our borough.”

Dear Neighbor,

Thank you for joining us for another week in review.

I am proud to announce a $395,000 investment in our borough`s public safety efforts, which include funding for a borough-wide mobile command unit and security cameras. This announcement is a critical part of our ongoing commitment to reduce crime and ensure that every resident in our borough feels safe in their home and on our streets. This allocation for security cameras is one of many that I have included funding for in this year`s budget, including the installation of security cameras at some of our borough`s schools as part of our plan to keep our scholars and educators safe in and out of the classroom. I want to thank my colleagues in government, faith leaders, the NYPD, and our cure violence organizations who joined us for this announcement and for their commitment to keeping our communities safe. Together, we will cultivate an environment where safety thrives through partnerships between law enforcement, community organizations, and each of you.

Our office is also excited to host our Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration! Join us on Thursday, October 3rd at 6 PM as we celebrate the culture and contributions of Bronx entrepreneurs, business owners, advocates, community leaders, and entertainers of Hispanic descent.

Lastly, registration is still open for the Annual Tour de Bronx bike ride on Sunday, October 6th. All novice and experienced riders are encouraged to join us for the largest free biking event in the tri-state area as we celebrate 30 years of this event promoting alternative modes of transportation, fitness, and the very best of the Bronx! Click here to register.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our office at 718-590-3500 or email us at webmail@bronxbp.nyc.gov.

In partnership,

Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON CALLS FOR EXPANDED TREE CANOPY COVERAGE IN COMMUNITY BOARDS 1-6 DECLARES EXTREME HEAT DURING THE SUMMER A PUBLIC HEALTH & SAFETY ISSUE

According to a 2024 New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Report, each year, approximately 350 die due to heat-related illnesses with 7 deaths caused by heat stress

Bronx, NY – On Thursday, September 19, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson joined Senior Environmental Protection and Community Relations Manager at WM, Jay Kaplan; Natural Areas Conservancy Executive Director, Sarah Charlop-Powers, President of Bronx Council for Environmental Quality President, Robert Fanuzzi, Ph.D.; Co-Founder of South Bronx Unite, Mychal Johnson; President of Friends of Pelham Bay Park, and Founder of Loving the Bronx, Nilka Martell; and others south of 98 Lincoln Avenue on the Bronx Waterfront in the Mott Haven section to call for action to be taken to address tree canopy coverage disparities in Community Boards 1-6 that contributes to extreme heat conditions that threaten the health and safety of elderly residents and Black New Yorkers.

“Despite being the greenest borough, the distribution of trees and greenspaces is not equitable and is disproportionately affecting our most vulnerable residents,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson

“Today`s presser is a call to action and attention to address these disparities, which contribute to poor air quality in the South Bronx, and extreme heat, further exacerbating pre-existing health conditions that can lead to heat-related illness or heat-related mortality. We are grateful to have advocates, colleagues in government, and private partners who care about these issues and are committed to working with us to protect the health of our residents and families.”

“WM is deeply committed to environmental stewardship with a focus on sustainability and thriving communities,” said Chris Farley, VP of WM Greater Mid-Atlantic. “Last year, to scale our conservation efforts, we planted a micro-forest at our Harlem River Yard facility in the South Bronx, a groundbreaking initiative to improve air, soil and water quality. WM is proud to work with our neighbors in the Bronx to address critical issues like the urban heat island effect while creating new and much-needed green spaces in a community that lacks open space and tree canopies.”

“Tree canopy cover can significantly lower temperatures in some of our most heat-vulnerable neighborhoods, with natural areas like forests and wetlands being the coolest places in the city,” said Sarah Charlop-Powers, executive director for the Natural Areas Conservancy. “Research from the Natural Areas Conservancy shows that forests in the Bronx can be at least 12 degrees cooler than even nearby street trees on the hottest days of the year, which demonstrates the importance of caring for these green spaces so that their cooling and other health benefits reach all New Yorkers.”

“Bronx Council for Environmental Quality encourages our Bronx elected officials to govern environmentally: to make meaningful public policy impacts with green space, clean air, and clean water,” said Robert Fanuzzi, Ph. D., President Bronx Council for Environmental Quality. “By advocating for expansive tree canopies within the borough’s most vulnerable communities, Borough President Vanessa Gibson has done just that. We call on all city agencies and private developers to adopt this priority and make climate change mitigation job 1.”

“Tree coverage and access to green space helps to combat the inequalities that exist in the South Bronx, where one out of four children in our community have asthma and other respiratory-related illnesses,” said Co-Founder of South Bronx Unite, Mychal Johnson. “We must reduce the Urban Heat Island effect, improve air quality, and create healthier outcomes.”

“Expanding the tree canopy in the South Bronx helps tackle environmental injustice,” said President of Friend of Pelham Bay Park, and Founder of Loving the Bronx, Nilka Martell. “Trees will help to alleviate the heat island impact and provide plentiful benefits to the borough at-large.”

According to a report on heat related mortality released by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene in June, about 350 heat-related deaths occur in our city each year. Mortality records from New York and other cities across the country have shown that heat kills along age, socioeconomic, and racial lines. Black New Yorkers and older adults are more likely than other New Yorkers to die from heat – both directly and due to exacerbating underlying medical conditions.

High levels of heat affecting the Bronx have numerous causes, including the heat island effect, which causes urban areas to have higher levels of heat than outlying rural areas. One of the prevailing factors contributing to the heat island effect is a lack of vegetation. Additionally, an insufficient number of trees and other green space has other effects, including elevated levels of air pollution and increased sewer system overflows during heavy rain events.

Mott Haven has 14% tree canopy coverage, and Hunts Point is even lower at 8%, two of the lowest coverage rates of any neighborhoods in the city. With these communities also experiencing high rates of health disparities, we must see immediate change to improve the health and safety of those who live here.

At the press conference, the Borough President and advocates called this issue a threat to public health and safety and are demanding additional action to be taken by the city and private entities to address these disparities. Along with calling for a 1% investment in the FY 2026 city budget towards city parks with a focus on neighborhoods with less tree canopy coverage, Borough President Gibson is calling for our private partners to also join with us to invest in initiatives that support existing green spaces or the establishment of new trees and/or parks in neighborhoods with significant need.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON`S STATEMENT ON THE APPOINTMENT OF DYNISHAL GROSS AS SBS COMMISSIONER

“I want to welcome Dynishal Gross as the new commissioner of the New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS). Her extensive experience and dedication to supporting small businesses make her an invaluable addition to our city’s leadership.

In the Bronx, our small businesses are the backbone of our communities and a driving force behind our economic growth. It is essential that we have a commissioner who not only understands our unique challenges but also shares our priorities. I look forward to working with the Commissioner and our BXEDC team as we increase access to capital, technical assistance, and creative approaches to invest in our small businesses.”

BP GIBSON ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH THE NYC DEPARTMENT FOR THE AGING AND GROW NYC ON HUNGER ACTION DAY

Bronx, NY – In recognition of September as Healthy Aging Month AND September 10^th as Hunger Action Day, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson joined New York State Assembly Member Landon Dais and Hunger Free America to announce her office is partnering with the New York City Department for the Aging, and GrowNYC, to distribute health bucks to older adults as part of her initiative to combat hunger and improve nutrition in the Bronx. The event took place at the Bronx Borough Hall Greenmarket on 161^st Street, a produce stand that for two decades, has provided area residents with farm fresh fruits and vegetables from upstate farms.

According to the findings from a study by City Meals on Wheels in partnership with the CUNY Urban Food Policy Institute, nearly 50% of older New Yorkers (ages 60 and above), experienced food insecurity in the past year. The report also showed that figure rising as high as 60% for those receiving home-delivered meals, with 41% of older adults sometimes, or never being able to shop for groceries, and 38%, having a limited ability to prepare food.

“On this Hunger Action Day, we are shedding light on an issue that is disproportionately affecting our older adults in the Bronx,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “I am excited to announce a partnership with Grow NYC and the New York City Department for the Aging, where we will distribute information and resources at our local farmers markets to ensure our older adults have access to fresh and nutritious food options in our borough. I want to thank Grow NYC and the New York City Department for the Aging for their partnership on this initiative and commitment to supporting our older adults.”

“As Commissioner, I am thrilled by Borough President Gibson’s ongoing partnership and mutual commitment to helping reduce food insecurity among older adults,” said NYC Aging Commissioner Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez. “And as a Bronxite, I know increasing access to health and nutritious foods is critically important. The healthy options available to older Bronx residents through this initiative will help them stay physically fit while remaining in the communities they know and love.”

“Food insecurity remains a challenge for many New Yorkers and thanks to dedicated city partners like Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson, GrowNYC is making strides to combat hunger through incentives like Health Bucks,” said Tutu Badaru, Assistant Director of Food Access Initiatives & Partnerships. “GrowNYC pioneered the distribution of Health Bucks in partnership with the Department of Mental Health and Hygiene to encourage SNAP users to buy local, fresh food, marking a groundbreaking effort in the United States. Today, this program has inspired similar efforts across the nation. Together, we are making a powerful impact and creating a brighter, healthier future for all New Yorkers.”

“No one should go hungry, but it’s especially troublesome when our oldest residents do,” said Filomena E. Acevedo, Director of Community Organizing/Advocacy, Hunger Free America. “We appreciate Borough President Gibson leading the fight to make sure Bronx’s seniors can access sufficient, healthy, food.”

“The Green Market on 161st Street has been essential to bringing healthy foods at a low cost not only to our seniors but the 161st community at large,” said Trey Jenkins, Executive Director of the 161^st Street Business Improvement District. “During my tenure as the Executive Director at the 161st Street BID we have worked closely with Grow NYC to ensure the Green Market continues to be a success in our corridor and we’re happy to continue to work with Grow NYC and the Bronx Borough President’s Office on this new partnership with DFTA to address food security for our seniors in the Bronx.”

Launched in 2005, Health Bucks serves as an incentive for New Yorkers to incorporate fresh fruit and vegetables into their daily diet. For every $2 spent at a farmers market using SNAP on an EBT card, shoppers get $2 in Health Bucks, up to $10 per day. For more information, go to grownyc.org.

On August 8^th, Borough President Gibson was joined by NYC Council Member Eric Dinowitz at the Norwood Farmstand off East Gun Hill Road and East Dekalb Avenue to announce a combined allocation of $30,000 towards Health Bucks to be spent at Green Markets, Farmstands and Pop-Ups throughout the Bronx.

The Bronx Borough President’s Office will be at the following Farmstands during the month of September:

September 20th

Parkchester Market

10 AM – 1 PM

September 24th

Lincoln Hospital

10 AM – 1 PM

September 25th

Morris Heights Farmstand

10 AM – 1 PM

BP GIBSON ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH THE NYC DEPARTMENT FOR THE AGING AND GROW NYC IN RECOGNITION OF HEALTH AGING MONTH AND HUNGER ACTION DAY

Bronx, NY – In recognition of September as Healthy Aging Month AND September 10^th as Hunger Action Day, a national campaign focused on raising awareness around hunger and offering solutions, on Tuesday, September 10^th from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson will announce a partnership with the New York City Department of Aging, and GrowNYC, at the Bronx Borough Hall Greenmarket at 161^st Street and the Grand Concourse to distribute health bucks to older adults as part of her initiative to combat hunger and improve nutrition in the Bronx.

According to the findings of a study by City Meals and Wheels that partnered with the CUNY Urban Food Policy Institute to survey a diverse group of 500 participants to analyze the food security needs of older New Yorkers accessing the City’s older adult center and home-delivered meal program, nearly half of older New Yorkers (ages 60 and above), experienced food insecurity in the past year, with numbers rising to 60% among those receiving home-delivered meals. The study also found that 41% were sometimes or never able to shop for groceries, with 38% having a limited ability to prepare food.

WHAT: Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson will announce a partnership with the New York City Department of Aging, and GrowNYC, at the Bronx Borough Hall Greenmarket to distribute health bucks to older adults as part of her initiative to combat hunger and improve nutrition in the Bronx.

WHEN: Tuesday, September 10^th, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.,

WHERE: 161^st Street and the Grand Concourse (Between Walton Avenue and the grand Concourse).

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON HOSTS 9/11 DAY OF REMEMBRANCE

Bronx, NY – On Thursday, September 12^th, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson will join the Supreme Court of Bronx County to host the annual 9/11 Day of Remembrance ceremony at Lou Gehrig Plaza located on 161^st Street between the Grand Concourse and Walton Avenue. The two-hour tribute will include dance and musical performances, with Founder of the Bronx Music Podcast, Host of Bronxnet’s Bronx Talk, and the Bronx Buzz, Gary Axelbank, serving as emcee.

WHAT: Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson will join the Supreme Court of Bronx County to host the annual 9/11 Day of Remembrance ceremony.

WHEN: Thursday, September 13th, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

LOCATION: Lou Gehrig Plaza on 161st Street between the Grand Concourse and Walton Avenue.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON AND COUNCIL MEMBER DINOWITZ PRESENT CHECK TO WAKEFIELD LIBRARY FOR INFRASTRUCTURE AND ADA UPGRADES

Bronx, NY – On Tuesday, September 3^rd, 2024, at 12:00 p.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson joined New York City Council Member Eric Dinowitz presented a $360,000 check to The New York Public Library’s Wakefield Branch located at 4100 Lowerre Place, Bronx, New York 10466, for infrastructure upgrades that will make the site more accessible for residents living with disabilities.

Built in 1938, and designed by the architect Thomas Dunn, the Wakefield Library has two floors: A first floor where the main reading room and collections are located and a ground floor where there are program rooms. The branch has an exterior accessible entrance; however, it lacks an intermediate landing. The funding received will help fund an accessible, ADA compliant ramp into the entryway on the main floor with an ADA upgrade to the restroom near this entryway.

The combined investment of $180,000 from the Office of the Bronx Borough President and $180,000 from the New York City Council aligns with the goals outlined in the Borough President`s Strategic Policy Statement for People with Disabilities that include improving city services and upgrading existing public infrastructure.

“Libraries play a fundamental role in our society. They are places of learning, exploration, and connection. They bridge gaps and bring people together, serving as beacons of knowledge and community support,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “This $360,000 allocation is not just about improving infrastructure; it is about aligning with our broader policy goals of creating equitable and inclusive public spaces. By enhancing the accessibility of our libraries, we are making a tangible impact on the quality of life in our borough. We are ensuring that every member of our community, including those with disabilities and from historically underserved neighborhoods, have the opportunity to access the knowledge and resources they need to thrive. I want to thank Council Member Dinowitz for his partnership on this allocation and the New York Public Library for their work empowering our communities.”

“Libraries are an important resource for many and provide all of us with a safe space for learning and recreation. They are not only educational, but they also serve as community centers through which constituents can receive free resources and support from the city,” said Council Member Eric Dinowitz. “As an educator working with students with disabilities, I know the importance of ensuring that all our educational resources are accessible, and that includes our precious libraries. I am proud to partner with the Borough President on jointly allocating $360,000 to make our libraries more accessible to the communities that we serve and want to thank The New York Public Library for its incredible partnership.”

“We are immensely grateful that Bronx Borough President Gibson and Council Member Dinowitz were able to secure $360,000 in capital funding for the Wakefield Library in this year’s budget,” Brian Bannon, Merryl and James Tisch Director of the New York Public Library, said. “The funding will go directly towards the construction of a new ADA accessible entrance and ramp outside of Wakefield Library, ensuring that the library continues to serve all patrons who rely on its vital services and programs.”

With New York Public Library Branches in the Bronx, Staten Island and in Manhattan, each play a vital role in providing support for our neighborhoods – particularly those in historically underserved communities. Wakefield Library’s Early Literacy Program, College and Career Pathways, and English as a Second Language (ESL), are just some of the classes and programs offered. For more information on this Branch, or other the New York Public Library Branches, go to www.nypl.org.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON ANNOUNCES $25.2M CAPITAL BUDGET $15.5M INVESTMENT IN EDUCATION TO COMBAT DIGITAL DIVIDE AND FOR INFRASTRUCTURE UPGRADES

Bronx, NY – On Thursday, September 5th, 2024, as an estimated 60,000 Bronx children return to school, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson announced an allocation of $15.5M for schools across the borough with investments in technology to bridge the digital divide and infrastructure upgrades to fulfill a pledge made during her 2024 State of the Borough Address to provide youth with opportunities to learn and grow.

With Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Capital Budget Priorities totaling $25.2 Million, Education received 61% of the funding, with 85 projects that include Security Cameras for Junior High School 144 at $150,000; a Supplemental Cooling System for the Cafeteria at MS 363 for $175,000; 3D Printers, Coding, Robotics, Virtual Reality System, and Learning Activity Packs at Pelham Preparatory Academy at $75,000; a Virtual Reality /AR STEM Lab at Marie Curie HS for Medicine, Nursing & Health Professionals at $225,000; Interactive White Boards, iPads, Chrome Books & MacBook Air Computers at P723X for $150,000; New Video Security Camera System at Pelham Gardens Middle School for $50,000; a Large Office Conversion for Adapted Physical Education for P188X @H790 at $175,000; Playground Renovations at MS 391 for $1M, and more.

“Our administration is intentional and purposeful in our commitment to investing in our Bronx scholars,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “We cannot allow decades of disinvestment in our borough`s schools to hinder the academic progress of our Bronx scholars. From iPads and Chromebooks to smart boards and 3D printers and essential infrastructure upgrades, our students need and deserve modern, aesthetically pleasing facilities and technology. For Fiscal Year 2025, we allocated over $15 million to our schools across the borough because we are committed to ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed and reach their full potential.”

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON'S RESPONSE TO SHOOTING INCIDENT AT MS 391

“On the eve of a new school year, we experienced a deeply troubling incident that should never occur in our community. One of our educators was struck by a stray bullet while preparing their classroom for instruction. An event that is both unacceptable and profoundly concerning. We are immensely relieved and grateful that he is recovering, but this situation highlights a broader public safety issue that demands our urgent attention.

Our schools should be sanctuaries of learning and growth, not places of fear. The safety of our students and educators must be a top priority, and incidents like these underscore the need for more effective measures to protect our residents from gun violence. Out of precaution, we are adding additional school support staff, including counselors at MS 391, and additional School Safety Agents.

We want to reassure our educators and parents that our children will be safe returning to school tomorrow. To ensure their continued safety, we will continue to work with local law enforcement and community leaders to keep our scholars, educators, and school staff safe in and out of the classroom. Our thoughts are with the affected teacher and his family, and we stand united in our determination to foster a safe and supportive educational atmosphere for all.”

The Emergency Rental Assistance Program

The Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) can provide economic relief to assist households that are unable to pay rent and utilities due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The funds are provided directly to States, U.S. Territories, local governments, and Indian tribes. Grantees use the funds to provide assistance to eligible households through existing or newly created rental assistance programs.

An “eligible household” is defined as a renter household in which at least one or more individuals meets the following criteria:

Qualifies for unemployment or has experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced a financial hardship due to COVID-19
Demonstrates a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability and
Has a household income at or below 80 percent of the area median income.
ERAP is not guaranteed and will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

You can apply here.

If you need help completing the application, you can call Monday-Saturday, from 8:00 am – 7:00 pm at 1-844-NY1-RENT (1-844-691-7368).

Rain Barrel Giveaway

Join us on Wednesday, May 8th, as we partner with Council Member Kevin Riley, State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, NYC Environmental Protection, and Mind Builders to host a free Rain Barrel Giveaway at Mind-Builders Creative Arts Center (3415 Olinville Avenue, Bronx, NY 10467) from 3 pm – 5 pm, while supplies last. Please reserve a barrel by RSVPing at bit.ly/RileyBarrel24 or calling 718-684-5509.

Benefits of a Rain Barrel:

Reduces runoff and non-point source pollution: Rain barrels will capture rainwater from the roof that would otherwise become runoff. Stormwater runoff picks up pollutants such as soil, lawn fertilizers, pesticides, trash, animal waste, road salts, chemicals, etc. and transports them to waterways. These pollutants impair waterways and can harm aquatic life and human health.
Reduces erosion and flooding: Increased amounts of stormwater runoff increases erosion and flooding. Capturing some of the water will reduce velocity and peak flows.
Saves drinking water resources and money: Using the rain barrel’s stored water around the landscape saves water resources and reduces water bills.
Rainwater is healthy for plants. It is often softer than tap water and does not contain chlorine.

Join us for a Taste of the District!

It’s that time of the year! A tradition like no other- embark on a culinary adventure at our annual Taste of the District Food Festival, presented with @grubhub and @toasttab.

Join us on Saturday, May 4th at 1pm at @northeastbronxymca as we recognize the greatness and entrepreneurial spirit of our local restaurants, and enjoy great food, live music, all with the love of our community.

Bring your family to experience the rich culinary traditions of our district!

RSVP now at bit.ly/tasteofthedistrict.

Saturday May 4, 2024 | 1 – 4pm

Northeast Bronx YMCA, 1250 E 229th St, Bronx, 10466

Dear Neighbor,

Happy Spring! We are working hard in Albany to finalize the budget. As we continue to navigate the final weeks of the budget, my district office continues to provide assistance to constituents with in-district issues. It’s tax season. Don’t forget to file your taxes before the April 15 deadline. If you are an individual who made $59,000 or less or a family with dependents who made $85,000 or less in 2023 and want an expert’s help to get your taxes done, you can qualify for free tax prep services. You’ll find additional updates below, including upcoming community events, resources, and programs.

I hope you will find these resources helpful. As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office with any questions or concerns. If you, or someone you know needs support accessing government benefits or are facing an issue, our constituent services team can help. Please contact our office for support at 718-547-8854 or senatorjbailey@nysenate.gov.

Sincerely,

Senator Jamaal T. Bailey

2024 Important Election Deadlines

Primary Election – June 25, 2024

Last day to register to vote in person is June 15, 2024
Last day to apply online or mail to request absentee ballot is June 15, 2024
Last day to apply in person for absentee ballot is June 24, 2024
Early Voting Period: June 15, 2024 through June 23, 2024
Election Day: June 25, 2024

General Election – November 5, 2024

Last day to register to vote in person is October 26, 2024
Apply online or mail to request ballot by mail by October 26, 2024
Last day to apply in person for absentee ballot is November 4, 2024
Early Voting Period: October 26, 2024 through November 3, 2024
Election Day: November 5, 2024

Upcoming I-95 Pedestrian Bridge Work

The Dyre Avenue pedestrian bridge over the New England Thruway (I-95) will be closed for the removal and replacement of the bridge’s superstructure over the southbound lanes. The closure of the pedestrian bridge is scheduled to begin at 10 p.m. today, April 12, with an expected reopening no later than 10 p.m. on Sunday, April 14. A free bus shuttle service will be provided while the pedestrian bridge is closed.

The stops are as follows:

On the east side of the bridge, the shuttle will pick up and drop off passengers at 1000 Baychester Ave. near the foot of the bridge.
On the west side, the shuttle will stop at 2195 New England Thruway Service Road.

The free shuttle will operate every 15 minutes, traveling between the two stops. Signs advising residents of the upcoming closure and free service have been installed along both sides of the ped bridge. On the highway, the work to remove and replace the superstructure of the pedestrian bridge will require overnight lane closures in both directions and multiple southbound traffic stops on Friday, April 12, and Saturday, April 13. Inclement weather could cause this work to be rescheduled.

New York State Senator Jamaal T. Bailey, Bereaved Families, Announce Bill to Create First Permanent Memorial in New York Dedicated to COVID-19 Victims Four Years after First Reported COVID-19 Loss

The New York State COVID-19 Remembrance Act would pave the way for the first permanent memorial in New York State memorializing COVID-19 victims.

New York, NY – Four years after the first recorded death from COVID-19 in New York State, Senator Jamaal T. Bailey, bereaved families, and community advocates announced the Senate Bill S8483, “The New York State COVID-19 Remembrance Act”. The bill would honor the memories of New Yorkers lost to the pandemic and pave the way for the first permanent memorial in New York State dedicated to COVID-19 victims.

The COVID-19 pandemic is one of the deadliest disasters by death toll in the history of New York City. As of March 14, 2024, over 1.1 million Americans, including over 82,932 New Yorkers and over 46,242 New York City residents, have lost their lives to the virus. More than 17,000 children in New York state alone have lost a parent or caregiver to the pandemic. Despite being a nationwide epicenter of the crisis, New York lacks a dedicated memorial to honor those who have perished and to recognize the sacrifices of our frontline heroes. Similar memorials dedicated to those lost to COVID-19 have already been built across the nation, including the nation’s first COVID-19 permanent memorial at Allaire Community Farm in Walltownship, New Jersey, the “United We Stand, Divided We Fall,” COVID-19 Memorial in Capitol Monument Park, Kentucky, and the Yellow Heart memorial in Jefferson County, Missouri. Locally, the DSNY Forever Strongest memorial and TWU Local 100 Union Hall memorials in New York City honors essential workers lost to COVID-19.

The idea for the legislation was inspired by sisters Jessica and Danielle Alejandro as a tribute to their grandfather, Joseph Anthony Szalkiewicz, who passed away from complications of COVID-19 on March 8th, 2021. In 2023, Jessica Marie Alejandro approached Senator Jamaal T. Bailey to discuss her and her sister’s efforts to preserve the memory of those lost to COVID-19. Their story deeply resonated with Senator Bailey, who had also suffered the loss of a loved one due to the pandemic and inspired him to champion this cause through legislation. Local Bronx community members and organizations like the Jamaica Progressive League and its President, Sadie Aarons-Campbell, have advocated for a permanent COVID-19 memorial in the Bronx, one of the hardest-hit communities during the pandemic.

Senate Bill S8483 authorizes municipalities to collaborate with parks departments and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to establish permanent COVID-19 memorials. The bill also establishes the “COVID-19 permanent memorial fund” to provide financial support for the creation and maintenance of these memorials. The final designs and locations of the memorials are to be selected through a community-driven process, prioritizing input from those most impacted, including family members and loved ones of victims of COVID-19.

“As we reflect on the trauma and loss New Yorkers have endured over the past four years, it is critical that we come together to remember those we have lost,” said Senator Jamaal T. Bailey (D36 – Westchester & The Bronx). “The Bronx was one of the hardest hit parts of the country and our communities are home to some of the largest numbers of essential frontline workers. During the height of the pandemic, we weren’t able to be at our loved ones’ side or provide them with the comfort and support they deserved in their final moments. We weren’t able to conduct traditional homegoing or burial services due to health restrictions, adding to the burden of our grief. This grief is something that we have to carry with us everyday, and it’s only right that as the epicenter of the pandemic, we have a space to process that grief and memorialize our loved ones. Thank you to all of the bereaved families and community members who have lent their voice to this cause, for turning pain into purpose, and being the heart and drive behind this initiative to honor the memory and legacy of over 80,000 New Yorkers lost to COVID-19.”

“Nobody can understand the magnitude of our grief within the COVID community,” said Jessica and Danielle Alejandro. “When our world stopped as our loved ones suffered, the rest of the world kept going, and it was in our faces every single day. It’s deeply disheartening that our loved ones haven’t been properly memorialized and we’re grateful to Senator Bailey for his dedication to ensuring they will never be forgotten. Through our work and with the support of Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, we unveiled a permanent COVID-19 memorial at CUNY Queens College to honor loved ones lost within the Queens College community. Now, our focus is on ensuring all of our loved ones are properly memorialized and acknowledged by New York City and New York State.”

“It is well-documented that the Bronx Immigrant community has suffered the brunt of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Sadie Aarons-Campbell, President of the Jamaica Progressive League. “These mostly essential workers succumbed to the disease while rendering their services, and have departed this life without ceremony or acknowledgement. Since 2020, the Jamaica Progressive League, has been advocating that a memorial be erected to commemorate these precious souls. We are pleased that the idea is finally getting the well-deserved attention.”

Pablo Lopez Jr., New York City Resident, said: “My mother Marilu Lopez Santiago passed away from COVID on April 5th, 2020. She, like many others, is not just a number. Supporting the New York State COVID-19 Remembrance Act will ensure that our loved ones are never forgotten.”

“As we remember four years since the pandemic began, this bill will help millions of New Yorkers heal by memorializing their loved ones taken by COVID,” said Chris Kocher, Executive Director of COVID Survivors for Change. “We will continue to work with COVID survivors to enact this bill and others that would provide needed support for the more than 17,000 children in New York who lost parents or caregivers to COVID.”

Dear Neighbor,

It has been a busy start to the budget season. The state budget process is how the legislature determines how funds are allocated for governmental services and programs within our state. As your State Senator, I am meeting with fellow lawmakers, agencies, and community groups to finalize the final budget and advocating for funding for key initiatives and programs that benefit our community. Our goal is to ensure that the budget reflects the priorities and needs of our community members and the voices of our constituents are heard in this process.

While I’m in Albany for the legislative session, my office continues to assist constituents in the Bronx and Mount Vernon with government services, unemployment benefits, housing issues, and more. You’ll find additional updates below, including upcoming community events, resources, and helpful programs.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office with any questions or concerns. If you, or someone you know needs support accessing government benefits or are facing an issue, our constituent services team can help. Please contact our office for support at 718-547-8854 or senatorjbailey@nysenate.gov.

Sincerely,

Jamaal T. Bailey
State Senator, District 36

Dear Neighbor,

I hope you enjoyed the holidays and the new year is off to a great start! I am excited to be back in Albany for the start of the 2023 legislative session as your State Senator representing the great communities of The Bronx and Mount Vernon. I am looking forward to working with my colleagues in the Legislature to pass legislation and ensure our priorities are reflected in this year’s state budget.

COVID-19 cases are increasing, and flu and RSV are still spreading. Wearing a mask in crowded indoor settings can help protect you and protect others if you’re sick. If you are sick, stay home to help keep others safe. Free COVID testing appointments are still widely available to all New Yorkers regardless of immigration status. The CDC’s Bridge Access Program provides no-cost COVID vaccines to adults without health insurance, or adults whose insurance does not cover all vaccine costs. Visit https://vaccinefinder.nyc.gov for more information on where to get both the COVID and flu vaccines. You can also request four free test kits for your household at Covid.gov/tests— my district office also has free masks available. Stop by 959 E 233rd St during business hours to pick up masks.

Here is some of what’s happening in Albany and the district, what our office has been doing, and what is coming soon. Should you have any questions or need assistance with any in-district issues, please feel free to reach out to my office at 718-547-8854 or senatorjbailey@nysenate.gov.

Sincerely,

Jamaal T. Bailey
State Senator, District 36

Home Energy Assistance Program

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is a federally funded program that helps low-income homeowners and renters pay for utility and heating bills. If you have received an electric, gas, or heating disconnect notice, you can apply for emergency financial help. You may also qualify for help if you have a low supply of heating fuel or a broken boiler or furnace. Active SNAP/Cash Assistance clients and clients receiving SSI who live alone are automatically eligible for HEAP benefits.

Your household may be eligible for a Regular benefit if:

A member of your household is a United States Citizen or Qualified Non-Citizen
Your household’s gross monthly income is at or below the current income guides for your household size
You receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits or
You receive Temporary Assistance (TA) or
You receive Code A Supplemental Security Income (SSI Living Alone)

Apply for HEAP
You can apply for HEAP by filling out the HEAP application and mailing or faxing it back to:

Home Energy Assistance Program/HEAP
P.O. Box 1401
Church Street Station
New York, NY 10008
Fax: 917-639-2900

Applications can also be dropped off in person at a local HEAP office. You can get additional help by calling the DSS/HRA HEAP unit at 1-718-557-1399 or call the NYC HEAP Infoline at 1-718-557-1399 for the status of your application. You can also get more information on HEAP here.

The New York State Senate’s Youth Leadership Recognition Award Program honors outstanding students who will become our future leaders. Eligible students include current sophomores, juniors, and seniors who excel not only academically, but through leadership in extracurricular and volunteer activities. There are four categories to choose from including: Academics, Athletics, Arts and Community Service. Nominations should include a recommendation letter from the nominating educator/school administrator and a brief statement by the student about their accomplishments. Students selected to receive the New York State Senate Youth Leadership Recognition Award will receive a congratulatory personalized certificate. All nominations must be submitted by March 22, 2024, and the nomination website will be taken down after that date. If you have any questions about the Youth Leadership Recognition Award program, please email NYSenateServices@nysenate.gov or call 518-455-2558.

****Please note the nominator must be a school administrator or educator****

Senator Jamaal T. Bailey, Assemblymember Michael R. Benedetto, Celebrate Signing of New Legislation to Ban Digital Billboards Near Mitchell-Lama Housing

S1931B/A7456a, inspired by challenges stemming from the operation of digital billboards in Co-op City, prohibits all residential and commercial properties within fifteen hundred feet of Mitchell-Lama housing (with no fewer than ten thousand units) in cities with a population of one million or more from operating digital billboards or signs using flashing, intermittent, or moving lights, marking a significant step toward enhancing the quality of life for residents in affected areas.

Bronx, NY – Senator Jamaal T. Bailey and Assemblymember Michael Benedetto today announced the signing of legislation aimed at protecting residents near Mitchell-Lama housing from the adverse effects of digital billboards. The new law, S1931B/A7456A, prohibits digital billboards or signs using flashing, intermittent, or moving lights within fifteen hundred feet of Mitchell-Lama housing with no fewer than ten thousand units in cities with a population of one million or more. Local legislation, Res 0797-2023, was introduced in September by Council Member Kevin C. Riley in the New York City Council.

The legislation addresses the challenges faced by communities like Co-op City where lighting from large electronic billboards has posed serious concerns to the quality of life of residents. Local residents and community members in Co-op City have long opposed the operation of the digital billboards and rallied against the installation of new billboards. The operation of digital billboards has proven to be detrimental in particular to the well-being and safety of vulnerable populations. Co-op City is home to the nation’s largest naturally occurring retirement community (NORC), including a significant senior population.

High-intensity lighting emitted by digital billboards has been linked to various health problems, including headaches, eye strain, fatigue, and disrupted sleep patterns. Residents have reported difficulties in focusing, sleeping, and normal daily activities caused by the intense illumination of ultrabright LEDs over prolonged periods. The content displayed on the billboards, including alcohol-related and provocative advertisements, has raised serious concerns given the billboards’ proximity to an education complex comprising six campus buildings serving students from elementary to high school levels.

“Businesses should not be able to profit off of our communities while putting our health and safety at risk,” said Senator Jamaal T. Bailey. “Our residents deserve to live in a safe and healthy environment. Exposure to excessively bright billboards and constant high-intensity lighting from billboards have been linked to serious health and safety concerns. This legislative victory is a collective effort that demonstrates the strength of our community. Co-op City residents have been fighting against these disruptive billboards for years, and I am proud we were able to finally put an end to this practice and deliver this win for our community members. Our community’s voices made a difference. Now, with this legislation, we are taking a proactive step to prevent such issues in the future. I want to thank Assemblymember Michael Benedetto and Council Member Kevin C. Riley for their work on this legislation, Governor Kathy Hochul, Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, and Speaker Carl Heastie for prioritizing the health and well-being of our community.”

“Our Digital Billboard Legislation will once and for all prevent the construction and operation of disruptive and abusive billboards that would have shined all night into Co-op City’s bedrooms,” said Assemblymember Michael R. Benedetto. “This is a great victory for the Co-op City community a few days before the start of the New Year. I thank Governor Kathy Hochul for understanding the significance of this legislation, as well as my colleagues in Albany, State Senator Jamaal Bailey, Speaker Carl Heastie and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and in NYC, City Council Member Kevin C. Riley.”

“Today marks a monumental step towards safeguarding the health and quality of life for families in the Northeast Bronx and statewide,” said Council Member Kevin C. Riley. “With the support of Governor Kathy Hochul, Speaker Carl Heastie, and Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins endorsing Res 0797-2023 and S1931B/A7456A, we celebrate the collaborative effort between city and state to prioritize policy that serves the well-being of New York residents. In concert with Senator Bailey and Assembly Member Benedetto, we spearheaded legislation that not only tackles light pollution near Mitchell-Lama housing but also cultivates a healthier environment. This initiative aims to diminish the risks associated with disrupted sleep cycles and health disparities in our communities, specifically arising from the operation of large digital billboards emitting excessive artificial light. I am grateful for this partnership with my colleagues in government, the Co-op City community and all stakeholders for the dedication to improving the lives of New Yorkers for a sustainable future.”

Violations will incur civil penalties of one thousand dollars for the first offense and five thousand dollars for all subsequent violations.

The legislation will take effect sixty days after becoming law.

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

A state of emergency is in effect for NYC, Long Island, Mount Vernon, and the Hudson Valley due to severe weather and flooding. Travel is heavily impacted, with road closures and major subway delays. Please avoid traveling if possible. Several inches of heavy rain is expected to cause flooding of highways and streets.

We have seen major flooding at the intersection of Kingsbridge Road and Route 22 in Mount Vernon. Additionally, the road that connects Conner Street and Route 22 is currently flooded. Please report any additional problem areas to our office.

For assistance with any in-district issues, please contact my office at senatorjbailey@nysenate.gov or 718-547-8854. Mount Vernon residents can contact 914-665-2719 for any public works emergencies. New York City residents, please report flooding issues by calling 311 or using the below links to file a complaint. In the event of an emergency, please contact 911. Please stay safe!

Report Flooding
New York City Residents

Please report flooding issues by calling 311 or using the below links to file a complaint. For assistance following up on a complaint, please provide my office with the 311 complaint number so that we may follow up with city agencies on the issue:

Highway Flooding
Report a large amount of water on a highway.

Street Flooding
Report street flooding or ponding.

Sewer Backup
Report a sewer backup or sewage flooding in a building due to a weather event.

Water Leak in a Building
Report water leaking into an apartment, public area of a residential building, or basement.

Mount Vernon Residents
Please contact 914-665-2719 for any public works emergencies.

Important Flood Prevention Resources

If your home has flooded before or if you live in a flood-prone area (check your flood risk here), please use the below resources to keep your home and family safe.

Protect your home with a flood barrier.
Flood barriers can block water from getting into your home. Set them up if you know that flooding is likely to happen in the next several hours.
Flood alarms can save your life. Flood alarms will emit an alarm when water touches them, giving you a warning to evacuate. These are best for people who live in basement apartments.
Get prepared.
Visit nyc.gov/floodhelp to learn more about preparing for flooding in your neighborhood.
Get covered. Sign up for flood insurance. Flood insurance isn’t included as part of a standard homeowner’s insurance plan. Learn more and sign up for a plan that works for you at floodhelpny.org.

Please note our district office located at 959 E 233rd St, Bronx, NY 10466, will be temporarily closed due to unforeseen building issues. Our staff will be working remotely to continue assisting you during this time until the issue is resolved. We can be reached at 718-547-8854 or senatorjbailey@nysenate.gov during our regular office hours (Monday through Friday from 10am – 5pm) and assist with any inquiries or concerns you may have. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

I hope the new school year is off to a great start! Over the last few weeks, we have held a number of successful back-to-school events for families in the district. We will be hosting a more exciting events in the coming weeks, please check out the event flyers and resources below. Hope to see you there!

I’d like to remind everyone that resources, including COVID-19 testing, treatment, vaccines, and masks, remain readily available to New Yorkers. We are experiencing high levels of COVID-19, flu, RSV, and other respiratory viruses, and with the start of the school year, it is important to prioritize our health and wellbeing. Free COVID testing appointments are still widely available to all New Yorkers regardless of immigration status. If you’re feeling under the weather, it’s always best to test.

Stay safe and healthy, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need assistance. Please feel free to reach my office at 718-547-8854 or senatorjbailey@nysenate.gov.

Sincerely,

Jamaal T. Bailey
State Senator, District 36

Upcoming Events

Caribbean & Labor Unions Parade

Join us on Saturday, September 23rd from 1-4pm for a celebration of Caribbean heritage and labor unity! Our annual Caribbean and Labor Union parade attracts a diverse audience from across the 36th District and beyond and honors the contributions of the Caribbean community to the labor movement. The festivities will begin with a parade down White Plains Road, featuring vibrant performers, spectacular costumes, lively music, and entertainment. The starting point of the parade is 238th and White Plains Rd (MET, former Walgreens). The parade will end at P.S. 41 Gun Hill School (3352 Olinville Avenue, Bronx, NY 10467), where we will have an array of Caribbean foods, entertainment, and tabling opportunities. We look forward to seeing you on Saturday, September 23rd!

Organizations or performers interested in participating, please contact senatorjbailey@nysenate.gov.

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

I hope this email finds you in good health. New York’s legislative session runs from January to June, and in these last few months, I have been fighting to pass legislation and secure critical state funding so that we have the resources we need to ensure our community can thrive.

As the summer kicks off, I’m excited to be back in the district. The Bailey Bunch and I are looking forward to bringing back mobile constituent services with Bailey On Your Block. We are excited to see you at an upcoming event. Stay tuned for updates on pop-up constituent services, community events, and other exciting events happening in the district.

As always, my office is always here for you to assist with any community issues. Please feel free to reach out at 718-547-8854 or senatorjbailey@nysenate.gov. Mount Vernon constituents can also contact our Mount Vernon office at 914-699-1895.

Sincerely,

Jamaal T. Bailey
State Senator, District 36

CUNY Law Launches Collaborative First Impressions Youth Justice Initiative to Promote Empowerment and Community Justice Senator Jamaal T. Bailey ’12, United Neighborhood Houses of New York, and the New York Office of Court Administration join the Law School in creating a new community-focused framework

“A young person’s first interaction with the justice system can stay with them for the rest of their lives. All too often, this first impression is fraught with fear and mistrust. By investing in a community-focused framework that empowers young people through mentorship and education, we can reimagine the way our young people first come into contact with the justice system.” – Senator Jamaal T. Bailey, CUNY Law Class of 2012

NEW YORK, NY— Yesterday, the City University of New York School of Law (CUNY Law) announced the $1M First Impressions Youth Justice Initiative (First Impressions), a pilot program designed to change how young people and the justice system interact by offering a community-focused framework for mentorship, education, and civic leadership.

Vital support and leadership for this program came from New York State Senator Jamaal T. Bailey, a 2012 alumnus of the Law School, and Governor Kathy Hochul. CUNY Law’s First Impressions, in partnership with the NYS Office of Court Administration (OCA) and United Neighborhood Houses New York (UNH), is the first program of its kind and a model designed to be replicated across New York State. Additionally, First Impressions will include student-led leadership opportunities, including a summer program at the Law School and College Now youth empowerment courses at Bronx Community College and Queens College.

“Through this initiative, we are growing the impact of CUNY Law’s mission to make legal education more accessible and to diversify the field, and creating a new model that can be replicated around the state and nation,” said CUNY Law Dean Sudha Setty. “First Impressions is an innovative and multi-faceted program in collaboration with renowned community-based settlement houses and New York’s justice system. These kinds of connections create lasting ties through mentorship, community engagement, civics education, and leadership. We are appreciative of the leadership and support of New York State Senator Jamaal T. Bailey (class of 2012) and Governor Kathy Hochul in making this vision a reality.”

New York State Senator Jamaal T. Bailey ’12 said, “A young person’s first interaction with the justice system can stay with them for the rest of their lives. All too often, this first impression is fraught with fear and mistrust. By investing in a community-focused framework that empowers young people through mentorship and education, we can reimagine the way our young people first come into contact with the justice system. As a proud CUNY Law graduate, I believe there’s no institution better equipped to lead this initiative in our communities and carry forward CUNY Law’s mission of ‘law in the service of human needs.’ It is truly a full-circle moment to now be able to inspire the next generation of young people to careers in law through the First Impressions Youth Justice Initiative. When young people can see themselves represented in the future of the justice system – not only as attorneys and judges, but as court staff and professionals who play a vital role at all levels of the justice system – they can begin to change the narrative and shape a more just and equitable system. I want to thank all of our partners, Governor Kathy Hochul, OCA, CUNY Law, Dean Sudha Setty, and UNHNY, for making this critical initiative possible.”

First Impressions is designed to leverage the Law School’s expertise in pipeline programming that expands access to justice and to activate UNH’s members’ community-based youth programs. Collaboration with the settlement houses will enable the initiative to be hyper-local and community-based, providing programming co-facilitated by CUNY Law throughout the academic year that includes mentorship by OCA employees at all levels within the court system. In addition, high school students with existing CUNY relationships will have access to credit-bearing College Now courses at CUNY campuses. The curriculum, in alignment with CUNY Law’s mission “law in the service of human needs,” will focus on promoting youth empowerment and community action. Finally, CUNY Law students will teach a summer program focused on the development of communication skills, youth agency, and civics leadership that will support them in whatever career they choose to pursue.

“For more than a century, settlement houses have been dedicated to fostering community-centered, collaborative programming in New York City,” says Susan Stamler, Executive Director of United Neighborhood Houses. “Fostering the skills and leadership of young people as well as encouraging every New Yorker to be actively engaged in civic and community life is essential to building strong, healthy neighborhoods. United Neighborhood Houses is honored to be part of this initiative that follows a long tradition of youth empowerment in the settlement house movement. We thank CUNY Law, Senator Bailey, and the Governor for their commitment to this issue.”

First Impressions stands to become a model program that engages young people in their own community spaces, provides access to one of the nation’s largest public universities, and introduces the justice system.

The City University of New York School of Law is the nation’s leading public interest law school; its dual mission is to train lawyers dedicated to the practice of law in service of human needs and to make the learning, teaching, and practice of law accessible to those historically excluded from the legal profession.

Community Survey on Overnight Truck Parking

The focus of this survey is on the longstanding problem of overnight truck parking. Your additional insights will support work on resolving this challenge with a solution that is long-term and sustainable. This survey will take approximately three (3) minutes to complete and please share this with others in the community.

English: https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/1267646deeb5419284ab98c766ad6d9a

Spanish: https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/18299c188d9745bc84b6623b54fd09ec

Housing & Utilities Resources

Heating Assistance

Heating Assistance (HEAP) 2022-2023: The HEAP season opened on November 1, 2022. More information including 2022-23 benefit amounts and eligibility requirements can be fou

Cooling Assistance Benefit

The application period for the 2023 Cooling Assistance benefit opened on May 1, 2023, and will end close of business on August 31, 2023, or until funds are no longer available (whichever comes first). Applications for the Cooling Assistance benefit can be submitted in-person, by phone, over through ACCESS HRA.

Eligible households receive a cooling benefit of up to $800 for the purchase and installation of an air conditioner. If one cannot be installed safely, a fan will be provided. Benefits are provided on a first come first served basis to eligible applicants. Applicants are only eligible for a Cooling Assistance Benefit once every five years.

Online:
New York City residents – access.nyc.gov

By Phone:
You may call your HEAP Local District Contact and ask them to mail you an application. New York City residents can call 718-557-1399 if you have questions about the benefit.

In person:
You may apply in person at your HEAP Local District Contact.

Affordable Connectivity Program

New Yorkers can apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program for up to $30 off their monthly internet bill. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) gives a discount on your household’s monthly broadband internet service if you are eligible. Participating broadband providers will apply this discount to your broadband plan. Learn more about applying.

How to Apply: Two Steps to Enroll

Go to acpbenefit.org to submit an application or print a mail-in application.
Contact your preferred participating provider to select an eligible plan and have the discount applied to your bill.
Note: enrollment is not complete until the provider confirms your plan

conEdison Energy Affordability Program

You may qualify for a discount on your monthly energy bill if you receive benefits from the following eligible governmental assistance program.

You’ll be enrolled automatically if an agency notifies conEdison that you receive benefits from these eligible governmental assistance programs:

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – NYC SNAP, Westchester SNAP
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Direct Vendor or Utility Guarantee
Temporary Aid to Needy Families (TANF) – NYC TANF; Westchester TANF
Safety Net Assistance (SNA) – NYC SNA, Westchester SNA

You will not be enrolled automatically if you receive benefits from any of the following eligible governmental assistance programs and will need to apply separately:

Medicaid
Federal Public Housing Assistance
Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
Lifeline Telephone Service Program (Lifeline)

How to Apply for the Energy Affordability Program
If you’re not currently receiving a discount and you want to enroll in the Energy Affordability Program, you can sign up online now. It’s quick and easy. Or if you prefer, you can download and complete your application: Eng lish Energy Affordability Program Application.

conEdison Energy Affordability Program

You may qualify for a discount on your monthly energy bill if you receive benefits from the following eligible governmental assistance program.

You’ll be enrolled automatically if an agency notifies conEdison that you receive benefits from these eligible governmental assistance programs:

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – NYC SNAP, Westchester SNAP
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Direct Vendor or Utility Guarantee
Temporary Aid to Needy Families (TANF) – NYC TANF; Westchester TANF
Safety Net Assistance (SNA) – NYC SNA, Westchester SNA

You will not be enrolled automatically if you receive benefits from any of the following eligible governmental assistance programs and will need to apply separately:

Medicaid
Federal Public Housing Assistance
Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
Lifeline Telephone Service Program (Lifeline)

Get Help Applying for Housing Connect

NYC Housing Connect is an online portal where you can find an affordable apartment or home to rent or buy. Connect with a Housing Ambassador who can help you use Housing Connect to apply for housing lotteries, gather information in case your number comes up, and get ready to show that you qualify. Housing Ambassadors can provide information and assistance with the application process. However, housing Ambassadors do not offer housing directly and cannot guarantee that an applicant will receive an affordable unit through the lottery. To make an appointment, contact a Housing Ambassador directly.

DOE Summer Meals Website

Starting June 29, 2023, all children will be eligible to receive free breakfast and lunch meals at sites across the City, including schools, parks and pools, in all five boroughs. No identification or application is required and meals will be available Monday through Friday. Breakfast will be served from 8:00am to 9:15am and lunch will be served from 11:00am to 1:15pm at designated sites. For more details and a list of locations, please go to the DOE Summer Meals Website.

Pandemic Electronic Benefit
Transfer Program (P-EBT)

The Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer Program (P-EBT) is a Federal program to provide food benefits to children who miss the opportunity to receive school meals due to pandemic-related school closures. These benefits will take the form of funds on electronic benefit transfer (EBT cards) which can be used in the same manner as SNAP (food stamp) cards. Families with children eligible for free school meals should check for additional P-EBT benefits online http://connectebt.com or by emailing otda.sm.eisp.PEBT@otda.ny.gov or calling 1-888-328-6399.

Emergency Food

Food Help NYC: You can pick up food packages at a food pantry or get a meal at a soup kitchen. Find Food Pantries and Soup Kitchens near you.

Mount Vernon & Westchester Food Resources:

Feeding Westchester Mobile Food Pantry and Fresh Market Schedule (Please note the dates in this schedule are subject to change or cancellation.)

Find food pantries and other meal programs in Westchester County.

Butler Monthly Food Distribution
Our office partners with Butler Memorial United Methodist Church and NY Common Pantry to host regular food distributions every first and third Wednesday monthly at 3920 Paulding Avenue, Bronx, NY 10466 (food pick-up on the corner of 233rd St & Paulding Avenue) from 1pm – 3:30pm, while supplies last. Contact 718-902-6921 for more information.

Food Benefit Programs

You can get help paying for groceries by enrolling in a food assistance program.

SNAP (Food Stamps) helps people with limited income buy food. Benefits are provided on an electronic card that is used like an ATM card and accepted at most grocery stores.
Food for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides pregnant women, mothers, and young children with healthy food and support services for prenatal care, breastfeeding, and nutrition.

Meals for Older Adults

If you are age 60 or older, you can also visit a Senior Center for hot group meals served at the center or, if offered, a grab and go meal or sign up for the Home Delivered Meals for Older Adults program if eligible. If you are a senior that has difficulty preparing meals, you may be able to receive nutritionally balanced home-delivered meals funded by the Department for the Aging (DFTA). Aging Connect is the New York City Department for the Aging’s information and referral contact center for older adults and their families. To reach Aging Connect, call 212-AGING-NYC (212-244-6469) to learn more or to request home delivered meals for a senior or call 311.

Note: If you are living with HIV/AIDS, cancer or other life-altering illnesses, you may be able to receive customized home-delivered meals from God’s Love We Deliver.

Free Monthly Food Packages for Seniors

Nourish offers free, nutritious foods to adults aged 60 years of age and older who have a New York state address and meet financial eligibility requirements. Most seniors who qualify for SNAP will be eligible for Nourish. Once a senior is signed up, they can receive a food package on a monthly basis. Food packages include a variety of foods, such as milk, juice, farina, oats, ready-to-eat cereal, rice, pasta, peanut butter, dry beans, canned meat, poultry or fish, and canned fruits and vegetables. Once each month you or your proxy will pick up your food at a convenient food distribution site. Please call Nourish at 917-982-2564 for more information.

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

I hope your new year is off to a great start. I am excited to be back in Albany for the start of the 2023 legislative session as your State Senator representing the great communities of The Bronx and Mount Vernon. As Chair of the Standing Committee on Codes and member of the Children and Families, Finance, Judiciary, Crime Victims, Crime & Correction, and Rules Committees, I am looking forward to working with my colleagues in the Legislature to pass important legislation and ensure our priorities are reflected in this year’s state budget.

I was proud to join my colleagues in the State Senate to start off the legislative session by advancing legislation to make voting easier and safeguard the rights of all New Yorkers. The State Senate passed legislation to improve New York State’s electoral system, allow for portable polling locations, expand ballot drop-off locations, establish the New York Voting and Elections Database, allow food and non-alcoholic drinks to voters waiting in line at the polls, and establish voter suppression as a criminal offense. I also had the honor of commemorating the life and legacy of the great Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on the floor of the Senate. Watch my floor remarks here.

I hope you will find the below community resources helpful. As always, my office is always here for you to assist with any community issues or to help you access any government resources. Please feel free to reach out at 718-547-8854 or senatorjbailey@nysenate.gov.

Sincerely,

Jamaal T. Bailey
State Senator, District 36

Recognizing the Signs and Getting Help

Human trafficking can happen to anyone but vulnerable groups are particularly at risk. Significant risk factors include recent migration or relocation, substance use, mental health concerns, involvement with the children welfare system and being a runaway or homeless youth. Children account for half of the victims of human trafficking. Traffickers recognize and take advantage of people who are vulnerable. Identifying trafficking is the first step to stopping it. Understanding the signs to look out for could help the most vulnerable people within your community.

If you believe you are a victim of human trafficking or may have information about a potential trafficking situation, please contact the U.S. National Human Trafficking Hotline. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 911.

National Human Trafficking Hotline: 888-373-7888 or text 233733

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children: 800-THE-LOST (843-5678)

NYPD Special Victims/Human Trafficking Hotline: 646-610-7272

NYC 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-621-HOPE (4673) for immediate safety planning, shelter assistance, and other resources. TTY: 800-810-7444

NYS Justice Center: (abuse/neglect in residential care) 855-373-2122

Lifenet: Free and confidential mental health and substance abuse information, referral, and crisis hotline services for New York City residents 24 hours a day / 7 days a week: 212-995-5824

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call or text 988 to be connected with a trained crisis counselor.

Safe Horizon’s Streetwork Project: Hotline for homeless youth under age 25: 800-708-6600

RESOURCES

The Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) helps low income households pay the cost of water and sewer services. The program can assist households who have past due bills (arrears) for water and sewer services. LIHWAP can help prevent your water and/or sewer services from being shut off. If your water and/or sewer is shut off, about to be shut off, or you have a 72-hour disconnect notice, and you need help immediately, you may be eligible for Temporary Assistance. You may apply online at otda.ny.gov/lihwap or call 1-800-342-3009 for assistance.

Benefits per household:

Up to a maximum of $2,500 per water and sewer provider, or
$5,000 if water and sewer services are combined
Paid directly to the household’s water and/or sewer provider(s)

Benefits for Working New Yorkers

There are benefits and supports for working New Yorkers that you may be losing out on. Check your eligibility for a wide range of work supports including home energy assistance, free or low-cost health insurance, child care, food and nutritional benefits, tax credits and free income tax prep at myBenefits.ny.gov. It’s quick, easy and confidential.

Need Help with Utility Bills? There is a Credit Program for Low-Income Families

Heating and Cooling Assistance (HEAP) 2022-2023: The HEAP season opened on November 1, 2022. More information including 2022-23 benefit amounts and eligibility requirements can be found here.

For Heat-Related Emergencies: The Emergency HEAP Benefit opens on January 1, 2023. The Emergency HEAP Benefit provides assistance to those who are in a heat related emergency. More information including 2022-23 benefit amounts and eligibility requirements can be found here.

Property Tax Benefits for Homeowners

New York City and New York State offer homeowners property tax relief in the form of exemptions, abatements, and credits. Eligibility criteria for each program is different. You may qualify to receive more than one benefit. You can apply for benefits that can help you save on your property tax bill.

To review the property tax exemptions that are available to homeowners—including seniors, veterans, clergy members, people with disabilities, and more—in New York City, visit the property tax exemptions page. You will find eligibility information and applications.

NYC Rent Freeze Program

The NYC Rent Freeze Program, which includes the Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) Program and the Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE) Program, helps those eligible stay in affordable housing by freezing their rent. Think you might qualify? The next enrollment deadline is March 15th. Don’t delay! The sooner you enroll, the more money you save. Learn about eligibility requirements for these programs by visiting PEU’s Tenant Support Unit website or by calling PEU’s Rent Freeze Hotline at 929-252-7242 to connect with a PEU Specialist.

Food Resources

Emergency Food

Food Help NYC: You can pick up food packages at a food pantry or get a meal at a soup kitchen. Find Food Pantries and Soup Kitchens near you.

If you are age 60 or older, you can also visit a Senior Center (also known as an older adult center) for hot group meals served at the center or, if offered, a grab and go meal or sign up for the Home Delivered Meals for Older Adults program if eligible.

Mount Vernon & Westchester Food Resources: Find food pantries and other meal programs in Westchester County.

Food Benefit Programs

You can get help paying for groceries by enrolling in a food assistance program.

SNAP (Food Stamps) helps people with limited income buy food. Benefits are provided on an electronic card that is used like an ATM card and accepted at most grocery stores.
Food for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides pregnant women, mothers, and young children with healthy food and support services for prenatal care, breastfeeding, and nutrition.

Help Paying for Child Care

New York State offers child care subsidies to low-income working families and those receiving temporary assistance to make safe, quality child care accessible and affordable. Families may be eligible for financial assistance if they meet the state’s guidelines and need child care to work, look for work, or attend approved education or employment training programs. To find out if you are eligible for a child care subsidy or to apply for a subsidy for your child, contact your local department of social services. For more information about the child care subsidy program, visit ocfs.ny.gov.

Low Interest Small Business Loans for NYC Entrepreneurs

If you’re a NYC-based business – a startup, growth-stage business, or needing a boost after the pandemic – the NYC Small Business Opportunity Fund is a trusted, affordable way for you to invest in your business.

No minimum credit score required  
Loans up to $250,000 at 4% fixed interest rate 
Free business support from trusted, local, mission-driven lenders
Easy to apply  
No application fees
Open to businesses at all stages – from startups to growing to rebuilding

Call 888-SBS-4NYC (888-727-4692) or visit SBSOpportunityFund.nyc for questions or help with your application.

Since Bowman lost the election, he stopped sending out press release. I guess he has checked out!

SENATOR RIVERA ON THE RESULTS OF THE 2024 ELECTION

SENATOR RIVERA TESTIFIES AT NEW YORK CITY COUNCIL HEARING ON THE EFFECTS OF HOSPITAL CLOSURES

This week, Senator testified in front of the New York City Council’s Committees on Hospitals and Health special hearing: Effects of Hospital Closures on Community Needs. Senator Rivera discussed his Local Input in Community Healthcare Act (S8843A/1633B), which is currently awaiting the Governor’s signature.

Senator Rivera’s legislation will address gaps in the state’s current review of proposed hospital and critical unit closures. It will also make our communities key stakeholders in a decision-making process with serious impacts on health equity by requiring community input.

Senator Rivera looks forward to Governor Hochul signing this bill into law to ensure communities have a say in their local healthcare access.

Senator Rivera on the Senate's Vote Legalizing the Adult Use of Marihuana

“Today, we are putting an end to the devastating impacts of marihuana prohibition and ensuring an equitable and diverse industry in our state for adult-use marihuana by passing the Marihuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA). This bill responsibly regulates the adult-use marihuana market, improves New York’s medical marihuana program, and directs new revenues and resources to Black and Brown communities, who have been historically harmed by its criminalization. I proudly voted for this legislation because racial and economic justice are at its core.

This victory would not have been possible without the steadfast leadership of Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and the bill’s longtime sponsor, my friend, Senator Liz Krueger. But, above all, it would have never happenned without the tireless work of advocates who have championed comprehensive, equitable solutions to a policy failure that has harmed too many New Yorkers.”

Senator Rivera on Allegations About Scott Stringer

“When a survivor speaks out about their experience with sexual harassment, we need to listen and seek the accountability that the situation demands.

I support Jean Kim’s decision to share her experience in a climate that has only recently begun to listen. In that regard, we all have a responsibility to foster a safe environment for women to share their stories of predation, abuses, and harassment. Progress cannot occur in the dark and we owe a debt to survivors brave enough to shed light. I urge Scott Stringer and his campaign to demonstrate respect for all survivors by rejecting attacks on Ms. Kim as an individual.

If we are truly going to end the normalization of sexual harassment and violence in our society, particularly against women and women of color, these basic standards of decency must apply to everyone, friends or otherwise.”

STATEMENT ON GOV. HOCHUL'S SELECTION OF CDPAP FISCAL INTERMEDIARY

This week, Senator Rivera issued a statement in response to Governor Kathy Hochul’s announcement that the Executive has selected a Georgia-based company, Public Partnerships LLC (PPL), as the statewide fiscal intermediary for New York’s Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP), which provides essential home care services to approximately 250,000 New Yorkers. Senator Rivera has serious concerns about this selection, citing PPL’s track record of failing to pay workers on time. Additionally, in other states where PPL was chosen, those states transitioned away from the company, negatively impacting enrollees.

Senator Rivera will continue to advocate for his legislation (S9901) to address the problems with the current program.

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SENATOR RIVERA NAMED ONE OF POLITICSNY & AMNY METRO LATINO POWER PLAYERS

Senator Rivera was honored to be included in the inaugural Latino Power Players 2024 list by PoliticsNY and amNY. Senator Rivera knows that it is a privilege to advocate for our Latino community and inspire others to make a difference in our state.

SENATOR RIVERA AND KRVC HOST ST. BARNABAS HOSPITAL'S MAMMOGRAPHY VAN

This week, Senator Rivera partnered with The Kingsbridge Riverdale Van Cortlandt Development Corp (KRVC) to offer free Mammogram screenings, courtesy of the St. Barnabas Hospital (SBH) Mammogram Van. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and regular mammogram screenings are essential for early breast cancer detection. Thank you to Laura Levine-Pinedo and SBH for partnering with the Senator.

Individuals in New York are eligible for a free mammogram even without insurance through the New York State Cancer Services program from the NYS Department of Health. To learn more about the program, click here.

SENATOR RIVERA HOSTS INAUGURAL ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE FAIR

Senator Rivera had a wonderful time last Saturday with neighbors at his inaugural Environmental Justice Fair at Williamsbridge Oval. Over 300 kids and families joined the Senator to explore local climate solutions, enjoy challenge cards, and win surprise raffle prizes. Attendees engaged in hands-on activities and sustainable arts and crafts, all while learning how to make a positive impact. Thanks to our sponsors Ponce Bank, Metro Plus Health, Bronx River Alliance, Patagonia, Crazy Fruits, and all the organizations that helped make this event such a success!

SENATOR RIVERA ATTENDED "A DAY TO REMEMBER" AT THE BRONX JEWISH CENTER

Senator Rivera attended a memorial at the Bronx Jewish Center for the one-year anniversary of the October 7th attacks on Israel. We mourn the innocent people who lost their lives on October 7th and all those lost in the ongoing war in the past year in the Middle East. We hope every day that every hostage is released unharmed. We must unite in our efforts to create a world without war, one where no one suffers from the horrors of conflict and terror. Thank you to Rabbi Pewzner and the Bronx Jewish Center for inviting Senator Rivera to this memorial.

SENATOR RIVERA TOURED SUN RIVER HEALTH

Senator Rivera visited Sun River Health in the Bronx this week. The Senator had the opportunity to see firsthand the positive impact their services have on the lives of those they serve. During the visit, Senator Rivera met with healthcare professionals, toured the facilities, and engaged with patients and staff to better understand the challenges and successes of their mission.

Senator Rivera had the opportunity to discuss the issues federally qualified health centers (FQHC) face across New York State. That is why he carries the bill S6959A to update the current reimbursement rates for FQHC’s that have not been updated since the year 1995. In order for community health clinics across New York to continue to serve patients, we must ensure they can stay open in medically underserved communities throughout our State. Thank you to Anne Kauffman Nolon, Chief Executive Officer, and Ernest Klepeis, Chief of Government Affairs and Advocacy, for the invitation.

SENATOR GUSTAVO RIVERA HOSTS A MEET & GREET ON THE NY HEALTH ACT AT THE BRONX HOUSE

This week, Senator Rivera hosted a Meet & Greet on the NY Health Act with neighbors. Senator Rivera answered questions and discussed the benefits of the NY Health Act, which would guarantee health care to every New Yorker by creating a single-payer, universal health care system based on New Yorkers’ ability to pay. Senator Rivera shared that we can improve the quality of care by taking private health insurance out of the equation and putting patients before profits. Thank you to Bronx House for providing the location and facilities for this Meet & Greet!

SENATOR RIVERA JOINED FIRST BRONX TECH HUB CAREER FAIR!

Senator Rivera attended the first Bronx Tech Hub Job Fair at Fordham University, organized by Fix It With Piggy. This fair was a success with over 300 attendees! These spaces are so important for young people in our community to network and gain access to the tech world. Thanks to Ashonda Culcleasure, founder of Fix It With Piggy, for inviting Senator Rivera to this wonderful event!

SENATOR RIVERA INTRODUCES BILL TO ELIMINATE OUT OF POCKET COSTS FOR INHALERS

“Our state must use every tool we have to address the serious asthma crisis that disproportionately affects children in the Bronx and other parts of New York impacted by environmental and economic injustice. I’m proud to introduce legislation with Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas that recognizes how imperative it is to remove the financial barriers to life-saving inhalers,” said State Senator Gustavo Rivera. “No parent should have to spend hundreds of dollars for an inhaler that can save their child’s life.”

This week, Senator Gustavo Rivera and Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas introduced legislation (S9906/A10692) which would eliminate deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, or any other cost-sharing requirements for asthma inhalers.

In January 2023, the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) released the Asthma Burden in NYC Report that showed the Bronx had a substantially higher asthma mortality rate than other NYC boroughs as well as the highest pediatric emergency department visit rates among NYC. Additionally, almost every census tract represented by Senator Rivera has been designated a disadvantaged community by the Climate Justice Working Group. Senator Rivera believes that there should be no financial barrier for life-saving treatments like inhalers.

Senator Rivera was honored to celebrate the grand opening of the new Fulton Reentry Community Center in Claremont after almost a decade since the Osborne Association received the keys to the former correctional facility with a promise to repurpose it.

Senator Rivera is proud to have secured the transfer of this facility to Osborne back in 2013. After seen this project being completed, Senator Rivera remains inspired by the mission of this center to help formerly incarcerated New Yorkers reenter society with the resources and support they deserve to be productive members of their communities. This center offers a future to those New Yorkers and Bronxites returning home and serves as a symbol for the borough that recidivism can be reversed by investing in economic stability.

To learn more about the Fulton Community Reentry Center, you can read the Bronx Times’ coverage of the Center’s opening here.

This week, Senator Rivera introduced his Bucks for Boilers Act (S9099).

This goal of this bill is to transform buildings across the State into energy-efficient, zero-emissions systems that will save New Yorkers hundreds of dollars a year, while making their homes healthier and safer. This bill will bring us one step closer to accomplishing our State’s clean energy and climate goals.

If you are interested in learning more about the bill and its potential impact on our State, Senator Rivera invites you to read the study that the think tank WIN Climate commissioned detailing the positive effects of this legislation.

SENATOR RIVERA ON THE 2024-2025 STATE BUDGET

Last week, Senator Rivera joined with the Senate Majority to vote in favor of the 2024-2025 Budget. While there were disappointments along the way, Senator Rivera was proud that the Senate Majority Conference led by Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins fought tirelessly to reduce the harm that many of the Executive proposals would have caused.

The work does not stop with the end of this process. In the few weeks remaining in this legislative session, Senator Rivera will focus on addressing the concerns of working-class New Yorkers that were not addressed in this budget by the Governor’s heavy-handed austerity and misaligned priorities during a period of extreme wealth inequality.

To read Senator Rivera’s statement in full, please click here.

SENATOR RIVERA ATTENDS 1199'S MARCH FOR HOMECARE WORKERS

This week, Senator Rivera attended a march and press conference organized by 1199 SEIU, CDPAANYS, The Caring Majority and other advocacy organizations in which we opposed the Executive’s proposed freezing of CDPAP’s workers wages. Senator Rivera reiterated that the drastic cuts in the Executive budget proposal are detrimental for New Yorkers and will exacerbate the workforce shortages that hurt communities throughout the state.

Senator Rivera also spoke about his Home Care Savings & Reinvestment Act (S7800) as an alternative to these drastic cuts. This legislation will save hundreds of millions a year in long term care by removing private insurance companies from the equation, ensuring that we put people first.

Read the op-ed Senator Patrick Gallivan and I co-wrote for the Buffalo News where we explain our opposition to the proposed CDPAP cuts because this program is essential for so many New Yorkers regardless of political affiliation.

4/15 TO 4/17: GET YOUR IDNYC CARD WITH SENATOR RIVERA AND COUNCILMEMBER SANCHEZ!

Senator Rivera will host the IDNYC van in collaboration with Councilmember Sanchez’s office. Appointments are available:

Monday, April 15th from 10 am – 5 pm
Tuesday, April 16th from 10 am – 1 pm
Wednesday, April 17 from 10 am – 5 pm

Call our office at 718-933-2034 to make an appointment and learn which documents you will need to bring to apply to get the IDNYC card.

Senator Gustavo Rivera is participating in the New York State Senate’s Youth Leadership Recognition Awards program. This program honors outstanding students who will become our future leaders. Eligible students include current sophomores, juniors, and seniors who excel not only academically, but through leadership in extracurricular and volunteer activities. Students selected to receive this award will receive a congratulatory personalized certificate from Senator Rivera.

All nominations must be submitted by March 22nd, 2024. The nominator must be a school administrator or educator. To learn more about this award and nominate a student, visit the New York State Senate website.

SENATOR RIVERA CELEBRATES TREMONT AVE B & D TRAINS BEING FULLY ACCESSIBLE

Senator Rivera j oined the MTA and other elected officials in celebrating the new elevators for the Tremont Avenue B and D station, which is now fully accessible to all in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

“Five years ago, I wrote to the MTA, joined by the Bronx Senate Delegation, urging them to meet the acute need for accessible subway stations in our borough, which has a higher proportion of elderly and physically disabled residents. I am thrilled that the MTA has listened to us and prioritized our needs by opening another elevator on the B/D line at Tremont Avenue. I am proud of the progress we’re making for public transit riders and community members that depend on accessible transportation,”

said State Senator Gustavo Rivera.

SENATOR RIVERA HEALTH COMMITTEE PASSES 12 BILLS

This week, the New York State Senate Health Committee passed 12 bills. Six of those bills are sponsored by Senator Rivera, including legislation to ensure telehealth reimbursement parity for Community Health Centers serving as critical healthcare access points in low-income communities and to require reimbursement for durable medical equipment providers.

SENATOR RIVERA HOSTS WORKSHOPS FOR 53RD ANNUAL BLACK, PUERTO RICAN, HISPANIC AND ASIAN CAUCUS WEEKEND!

Last weekend, during the 53rd Annual Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic and Asian Caucus, Senator Rivera hosted the “Ending Healthcare Disparities” workshop. Attendees learned more about the role that the Medicaid program can and should play to ensure access to high quality care. Senator Rivera was joined by an expert panel which included representatives from 1199 SEIU, One Brooklyn Health, Lehman College, and the Cornell Center for Health Equity. The panel was moderated by Ann Tripp from the Steve Harvey Show and News Director for WBLS and WLIB Radio.

Senator Rivera also hosted the “Stop Rockefeller 2.0” workshop during Caucus Weekend in Albany. Attendees learned more about harm reduction policies including Overdose Prevention Centers (OPCs) from leaders in the field from VOCAL-NY, St. Ann’s Corner of Harm Reduction, the Bronx Defenders, and OnPoint NYC, which operates the two groundbreaking OPCs in NYC.

SENATOR RIVERA ATTENDS DAVID ROGERS COLLOQUIUM

On Wednesday, Senator Rivera spoke in front of 50 medical students, faculty, and professionals at the David Rogers Colloquium in Manhattan. Senator Rivera discussed the New York Health Act and ending healthcare disparities in New York by creating a healthcare delivery system that centers patients instead of profits. Thank you to Dr. Fein and Dr. Cole for inviting Senator Rivera to speak.

Learn more about the New York Health Act and our fight for a single payer healthcare system at nyhcampaign.org.

SENATOR RIVERA ATTENDS BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATION AT THE NEW YORK BOTANICAL GARDEN

Senator Rivera joined fellow elected officials and community leaders at the Black History Month Celebration at the New York Botanical Garden. Senator Rivera discussed how black history shows us that we must continue to stand united and in defiance against oppression. Thank you to Council Member Kevin Riley for hosting this beautiful event!

SENATOR RIVERA JOINS THE BRONX SENATE DELEGATION BUDGET FORUM

Senator Rivera joined his colleagues for the Bronx Senate Delegation Budget Forum. This forum was a great opportunity for community members to share priorities, concerns, and suggestions for the New York State Budget. The Bronx Delegation is united to make sure this budget serves The Bronx. Thank you to Senator Nathalia Fernandez for organizing this important event!

SENATOR RIVERA ATTENDS 46TH PRECINCT COUNCIL MEETING

Senator Rivera attended the 46th Precinct Community Council meeting to discuss the work that he is doing for The Bronx. Thank you to Community Council President Basil Moore, Inspector Scheublin, and the council’s members for welcoming the Senator.

MARCH 1ST DEADLINE: 3-K AND PRE-K APPLICATIONS

New York City Public Schools’ applications for 3-K and Pre-K for the

2024-2025 school year are now open Families can apply for 3-K and Pre-K enrollment in three different ways.

Apply online on MySchools.nyc
Apply over the phone by calling 718-935-2009, Monday – Friday between 8am and 6pm.
Apply in person at a local Family Welcome Center.

Applications must be submitted by March 1, 2024, for consideration.

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Sammy's Law: Paving the Way for Safer Streets in New York City

In the near future, certain areas of New York City will see speed limits significantly reduced to as low as 20 or even 10 mph, thanks to Sammy's Law. This legislation empowers the city to modify speed limits in specific zones for enhanced safety

Valley Residents Rally Against Proposed Homeless Shelter Project

Air Quality Chart

Con Edison Wins 2024 ReliabilityOne® Awards As Most Reliable Electric Provider in the Nation Company’s Service is Nearly Nine Times More Reliable Than Other NYS Electric Providers, 10 Times Better Than U.S. Average

CON EDISON PROVIDES $9 MILLION TO JUMP-START FIRST STUDENT SCHOOL BUS ELECTRIFICATION IN BROOKLYN

CON EDISON OFFERS CUSTOMERS PROGRAMS TO HELP THEM SAVE ENERGY AND MONEY THIS WINTER Company Offers Payment Plans, Budget Billing, Low-Income Discounts; Customers Can Save with Careful Usage, Energy Efficiency Programs

CON EDISON NAMES CAROLYN VADINO VICE PRESIDENT, COMMUNICATIONS

CON EDISON CUSTOMERS SHINE DURING CLIMATE WEEK; THE FUTURE FOR GREEN ENERGY SOLUTIONS IS BRIGHT

PSC Directs Con Edison, O&R to Take Next Steps on Natural Gas Planning Action Will Help the Two Utilities Meet New York’s Nation-Leading Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Targets

CON EDISON’S JAMES WONG RECOGNIZED AS AN OUTSTANDING ASIAN-AMERICAN BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL

CON EDISON IS AN ECONOMIC ENGINE POWERING NEW YORK JOBS & CLEAN ENERGY TRANSITION Economic Impact Report: Company Contributes $22.6B in Economic Activity; Supports More Than 38,000 Jobs in 2023

CON EDISON CREWS RESTORING CUSTOMERS IN WESTCHESTER COUNTY Company Reminds Customers to Stay Safe and Report Outages

CON EDISON RESTORING CUSTOMERS FOLLOWING DAMAGING WINDS AND DRENCHING RAINSTORMS

CON EDISON NAMES FRANCHESCA DIAZ REGIONAL AND COMMUNITY AFFAIRS DIRECTOR FOR THE BRONX

CON EDISON CREWS PREPARED TO SERVE CUSTOMERS DURING THE MOST INTENSE HEAT OF SUMMER 2024 Workers Are Ready to Keep Service Reliable; Company Urges Customers to Use Energy Wisely

CON EDISON REPORTS CLEAN ENERGY PROGRESS FOR FIRST QUARTER 2024 Con Edison Customers Add 92 MW of Solar Capacity In A Year

CON EDISON CREWS ARE MOBILIZING FOR HIGH-HEAT, HUMIDITY

CON EDISON PREPARES FOR STORM, URGES SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

CON EDISON TO CUSTOMERS: KNOW THE TRICKS SCAMMERS USE AND YOU CAN AVOID BEING A VICTIM Con Edison and Other Companies Banding Together to Educate and Protect Consumers from Fraud

GOVERNOR HOCHUL

FYI: GOVERNOR HOCHUL LAUNCHES EFFORT TO PROTECT NEW YORKERS AHEAD OF TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE ON APRIL 8

GOVERNOR HOCHUL AWARDS $1.1 MILLION TO FINANCIAL LITERACY PROGRAMS ACROSS THE STATE

GOVERNOR HOCHUL ANNOUNCES NEW LAW TO CLARIFY DISCLOSURE OF CREDIT CARD SURCHARGES GOES INTO EFFECT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 11

Parks & Trails New York Statement on Governor Hochul's 'NY SWIMS' Initiative

About Parks & Trails New York

MAYOR ADAMS, GOVERNOR HOCHUL, MTA LAUNCH “SUBWAY SURFING KILLS – RIDE INSIDE, STAY ALIVE” PUBLIC INFORMATION CAMPAIGN

Kingsbridge Armory Redevelopment 'Part Three'

MAYOR ADAMS, GOVERNOR HOCHUL ANNOUNCE $70 MILLION INITIAL INVESTMENT TO DECARBONIZE NYCHA BUILDINGS AS PART OF CLEAN HEAT FOR ALL CHALLENGE

Governor Hochul Announces New Yorkers Can Now Choose an "X" Gender Marker on NYS Driver License and ID Cards

ICYMI: AOC Talks Reasons Behind AOC-Trump Voters, Trump Nominations on The ReidOut

Schumer Announces $150 Million in Rental Assistance for NYCHA Residents

Schumer Statement on Proposed Community Improvements for the Cross Bronx Expressway

Majority Leader Schumer Floor Remarks Honoring The Lives Lost And Heroic Actions Taken On September 11th, 2001

SCHUMER REVEALS: AMID DANGEROUS LISTERIA OUTBREAK SICKENING NYC & LI RESIDENTS, MAGA GOP IN HOUSE NOW PROPOSING $1.8B SLASH TO CDC; AGENCY IS TRACKING CURRENT OUTBREAK & SAVING LIVES; SENATOR VOWS PUBLIC BLOCK OF CUT AMID BUDGET NEGOTIATIONS

NOW-RETURNED PRISONERS OF RUSSIA NEED HELP FROM IRS NOW THAT THEY ARE BACK HOME IN AMERICA BECAUSE THEY HAVE YEARS OF NO FILINGS; SENATOR WANTS IRS FINES & FEES FOR JUST-FREED AMERICANS TOTALLY WAIVED; HE ALREADY PASSED BILL TO FIX THIS FOR ALL CASES—IT IS WAITING FOR SPEAKER JOHNSON

SCHUMER REVEALS: MAGA GOP LEGISLATIVE PLAN DUBBED “PROJECT 2025” WOULD SLASH VETERAN BENEFITS & CREATE CHAOS FOR VETS ACROSS NYC & LI; PROPOSAL ERODES DISABILITY BENEFITS, BIPARTISAN PACT ACT, OVERSIGHT & MORE; SENATOR SOUNDS ALARM & PLEDGES PLAN WILL NOT SEE SENATE FLOOR UNDER HIS LEADERSHIP

CREDIT CARD LATE FEES AT AVERAGE OF $32 CAN PILE ON DEBT & GET OUTRAGEOUSLY HIGH; NEW SUPREME COURT RULING GIVES HOPE THAT LATE FEE CAP OF $8 COULD SURVIVE; SENATOR SAYS TEXAS COURT NOW BLOCKING $8 FEE CAP SHOULD SIDE WITH CONSUMERS RIGHT NOW

ON EARTH DAY, SCHUMER DELIVERS HISTORIC $250 MILLION FOR NEW YORK TO HELP FAMILIES GET ACCESS TO SOLAR POWER VIA INFLATION REDUCTION ACT – FIGHTING CLIMATE CHANGE, CREATING GOOD-PAYING JOBS, & LOWERING ENERGY COSTS

Majority Leader Schumer Statement On Historic Investments To Expand Clean Energy And Climate Solutions

Breaking News From Major

MAYOR ADAMS CELEBRATES BACK-TO-BACK RECORD-BREAKING YEARS FOR SUPPORTING MINORITY-AND-WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES FIRST-EVER CIVIL SERVICE EXAMS FOR MULTIPLE PUBLIC SAFETY POSITIONS

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES CITY HALL, OTHER CITY BUILDINGS TO BE LIT GREEN FOR YOUTH HOPE MONTH

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES OPENING OF NEIGHBORHOOD SATELLITE COMMAND IN COLLEGE POINT, QUEENS

MAYOR ADAMS, INTERIM POLICE COMMISSIONER DONLON ANNOUNCE ‘DRONE AS FIRST RESPONDER’ PROGRAM TO REDUCE RESPONSE TIMES AND KEEP NEW YORKERS SAFE

MAYOR ADAMS CELEBRATES INCLUSIVE DECISION TO WELCOME LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY TO MARCH IN STATEN ISLAND ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

MAYOR ADAMS BANS GRILLING IN PARKS, REMINDS NEW YORKERS TO TAKE ADDITIONAL PRECAUTIONS AND CONSERVE WATER AMIDST ELEVATED FIRE RISK AND HISTORIC DROUGHT

ADAMS ADMINISTRATION BREAKS GROUND ON NEW YORK HARBOR SCHOOL EXPANSION ON GOVERNOR’S ISLAND

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES LAWSUIT AGAINST MAJOR ONLINE DISTRIBUTOR FOR ILLEGALLY SELLING DISPOSABLE FLAVORED E-CIGARETTES

MAYOR ADAMS’ STATEMENT ON LIKELY OVERWHELMING PASSAGE OF PROPOSITIONS 1, 2, 3, 4, AND 5

MAYOR ADAMS SIGNS LEGISLATION TO PROTECT HOTEL WORKERS AND GUESTS, STRENGTHEN TOURISM INDUSTRY

MAYOR ADAMS ISSUES CITYWIDE DROUGHT WATCH, ORDERS CITY AGENCIES TO DEVELOP WATER CONSERVATION PLANS, URGES NEW YORKERS TO START CONSERVING WATER

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES CITY HALL, MUNICIPAL BUILDING TO BE LIT TEAL FOR ALZHEIMER’S AWARENESS MONTH

MAYOR ADAMS URGES NEW YORKERS TO CALL 911 TO COMBAT SUBWAY SURFING, HIGHLIGHTS LIFE-SAVING TECH

MAYOR ADAMS, CHANCELLOR AVILES-RAMOS, UFT PRESIDENT MULGREW ANNOUNCE EXTRA RECESS DAY ON DECEMBER 23

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF ANNUAL AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC DESIGN Projects in All Five Boroughs Enhance Public Spaces, Provide Cultural and Recreational Amenities, Improve Resiliency, and Inspire Generations of Artists

ADAMS ADMINISTRATION HAS SECURED $2.3 BILLION IN FEDERAL INFRASTRUCTURE GRANTS SINCE JANUARY 2022

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES CITYWIDE DAY OF ACTION TO EDUCATE NEW YORKERS ON HISTORIC AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROPOSAL

MAYOR ADAMS UNVEILS ‘HOW NYC MOVES,’ NEW, DATA-DRIVEN PLAN TO STREAMLINE DEVELOPING MAJOR TRANSPORTATION-RELATED INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES NEW SUITE OF BENEFITS TO HELP MAKE IT EASIER FOR NEW YORK CITY EMPLOYEES TO BUILD A FAMILY

MAYOR ADAMS UNVEILS NEW VISION FOR GANSEVOORT SQUARE

MAYOR ADAMS WELCOMES HOME NEW YORK CITY FIRST RESPONDERS FROM DEPLOYMENT IN NORTH CAROLINA AND FLORIDA AFTER RESPONDING TO HURRICANES HELENE AND MILTON

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES FINALIZED E-BIKE TRADE-IN PROGRAM TO KEEP NEW YORKERS SAFE FROM LITHIUM-ION BATTERY FIRES

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES YANKEES, METS, LIBERTY HOME PLAYOFFS GAMES HAVE ALREADY GENERATED NEARLY

MAYOR ADAMS BREAKS GROUND ON MAJOR RENOVATION OF QUEENS PUBLIC LIBRARY’S HOLLIS LIBRARY

MAYOR ADAMS COMPLETES FIRST SECTION OF EAST SIDE COASTAL RESILIENCY PROJECT, TAKING STEPS TO PROTECT LIVES, PROPERTY

MAYOR ADAMS, MAYOR’S FUND, FAITH-BASED LEADERS ANNOUNCE HURRICANE HELENE AND MILTON RELIEF EFFORTS

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES CITY HALL, MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS TO BE LIT PURPLE AS PART OF NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

MAYOR ADAMS, FUTURE OF FIFTH PARTNERSHIP UNVEIL TRANSFORMATION OF FIFTH AVENUE INTO WORLD-CLASS, PEDESTRIAN-CENTERED BOULEVARD

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Eleanor Roosevelt