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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

New York City and neighboring regions felt the tremors of a 4.7 magnitude earthquake.

Today, New York City and neighboring regions felt the tremors of a 4.7 magnitude earthquake. Fortunately, initial reports indicate that there has been no structural damage or casualties as a result of the quake. The United States Geological Survey has provided additional information stating…

What should I do DURING an earthquake?

If you are INDOORS — STAY THERE! Get under a desk or table and hang on to it (Drop, Cover, and Hold on!) or move into a hallway or against an inside wall. STAY CLEAR of windows, fireplaces, and heavy furniture or appliances. GET OUT of the kitchen, which is a dangerous place (things can fall on you). DON’T run downstairs or rush outside while the building is shaking or while there is danger of falling and hurting yourself or being hit by falling glass or debris.
If you are OUTSIDE — get into the OPEN, away from buildings, power lines, chimneys, and anything else that might fall on you.
If you are DRIVING — stop, but carefully. Move your car as far out of traffic as possible. DO NOT stop on or under a bridge or overpass or under trees, light posts, power lines, or signs. STAY INSIDE your car until the shaking stops. When you RESUME driving, watch for breaks in the pavement, fallen rocks, and bumps in the road at bridge approaches.
If you are in a MOUNTAINOUS AREA — watch out for falling rock, landslides, trees, and other debris that could be loosened by quakes.
If you are near the OCEAN – see these safety rules from NOAA’s Tsunami Warning Center.

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.

NYC EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT TRAVEL ADVISORY FOR FRIDAY INTO SATURDAY FOR SNOW

Alternate Side Parking will be Suspended on Saturday, Meters Are Still in Effect

February 16, 2024 – The New York City Emergency Management Department has issued a citywide Travel Advisory for Friday, February 16 into Saturday, February 17. A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for Staten Island from 10:00 p.m. tonight to 1:00 p.m. tomorrow. The Winter Weather Advisory may be expanded to include the entire city when the National Weather Service forecast is updated this afternoon.

The current forecast calls for 2 inches of light to moderate snow citywide, with up to 3 inches in Staten Island. Heavy snowfall is not expected. This will be a quick-moving storm, with the bulk of the snow occurring between 3:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. Snow tapers off around daybreak tomorrow, with a few flurries possible into the early afternoon. Significant impacts are not anticipated, although slippery roadways with slight reductions in visibility may cause minor travel disruptions overnight and tomorrow morning.

Winds will be light out of the north at 5 to 10 m.p.h. during the storm, with gusts of 25 to 30 m.p.h. tomorrow afternoon. Temperatures will be in the low 30s tonight, but will climb into the mid to upper 30s tomorrow afternoon after snow has ended, allowing for snowmelt. Temperatures will drop below freezing again tomorrow night around midnight, which may result in areas of patchy ice overnight Saturday into Sunday morning, particularly on untreated surfaces.

NYC Emergency Management has proactively activated the City’s Winter Weather Emergency Plan in response to the forecasted conditions. This includes conducting coordination calls with the National Weather Service and city and state agencies and utility partners, and bolstering staffing for Watch Command and the Emergency Operations Center, which is already operational due to the city’s ongoing asylum seeker operations. The administration announced that Alternate Side Parking Regulations will be suspended tomorrow, Saturday, February 17, 2024. Payment at parking meters will remain in effect throughout the city.

As part of the Winter Weather Emergency Plan, the NYC Department of Sanitation (DSNY) will be issuing a Snow Alert. As part of the Adams administration’s commitment to providing quality of life services to every part of the City, Sanitation Workers will pre-salt certain “high spots,” side streets, and bike lanes – areas prone to accumulation that had not always received the attention they needed under past administrations – hours before the first flake falls. When precipitation begins, the Department will deploy over 700 Salt Spreaders to salt on every street, highway and bike lane in the City. During a Snow Alert, the Department collaborates closely with NYC Emergency Management and the Department of Transportation to implement snow clearing protocols, adhering to the detailed snow plans established by each agency. DSNY will be tracking operations via its new Bladerunner 2.0 platform, allowing real-time adjustments as conditions require. Every street is on a route and, for the first time, every route can be dispatched at the same time. Residents may follow their normal schedule for trash and recycling collection, but collection may be delayed.

The NYC Department of Homeless Services has issued a Code Blue and outreach teams will canvass all five boroughs to connect our most vulnerable New Yorkers to shelters. No one who is homeless and seeking shelter in New York City during a Code Blue will be denied. For the most immediate response, New Yorkers who see individuals they believe to be experiencing homelessness and in need should contact 311 via phone or mobile app and request outreach assistance.

Residential building owners are legally required to maintain indoor temperatures at 68 degrees when the temperatures fall below 55 degrees outside during the day and a minimum of 62 degrees indoors overnight, regardless of outdoor temperatures. If an apartment lacks appropriate heat, a tenant should first attempt to notify the building owner, managing agent or superintendent. If heat is not restored, the tenant should register an official complaint via 311. Tenants can call 311, visit 311 online at NYC.gov/311, or use the 311 mobile app (on Android and iOS devices) to file a complaint. Hearing-impaired tenants can register complaints via a Touchtone Device for the Deaf TDD at (212) 504-4115.

NYCEM urges all New Yorkers to prioritize their safety by remaining alert and well-informed, including with real-time updates by subscribing to Notify NYC and listening to news broadcasts for the latest weather information. NYCEM strongly encourages all New Yorkers to take proactive steps to ensure their own safety and support the city’s resilience:

NYCEM offers New Yorkers tips on staying safe before, during, and after winter storms at on.nyc.gov/winterweather.
Stay informed. Before and during an emergency, the city will send emergency alerts and updates to New Yorkers through various channels, including Notify NYC. Sign up for emergency notifications online or call 311. You can also follow @NotifyNYC on Twitter.
Allow for extra travel time and expect delays with little to no notice. Use public transportation whenever possible.
If you have to go outdoors, wear dry, warm clothing and cover exposed skin. Keep fingertips, earlobes, and noses covered. Wear a hat, hood, scarf, and gloves.
Shivering is an important first sign that the body is losing heat. Shivering is a signal to return indoors. Pedestrians should exercise caution and avoid slippery surfaces; some ice may not be visible. Wear sturdy boots that provide traction to reduce slipping. Use handrails when using stairs. Older New Yorkers and those with disabilities, access, and functional needs should take extra care outdoors to avoid slips and falls.
Be safe at work. Workers who spend a lot of time outdoors are at risk for cold-related health impacts. If you are an employer, implement safe work practices, provide appropriate protective equipment, and train workers on how to stay safe during cold and winter weather.
If you must drive, drive slowly. Vehicles take longer to stop on snow and ice than on dry pavement. Use major streets or highways for travel whenever possible. Have heightened awareness of cars, particularly when approaching or crossing intersections.
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.
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.
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/SevereWeather. 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.

Air Quality Chart

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

CON EDISON TO HOST INTERACTIVE CLEAN ENERGY EXHIBIT TO CELEBRATE EARTH DAY 2024

Immersive Experience To Teach New Yorkers
About The Benefits of The Clean Energy Transition

NEW YORK – Con Edison will host an interactive exhibit in Union Square Park in Manhattan to celebrate Earth Day 2024. The exhibit will teach visitors about Con Edison’s work to usher in a clean energy future.

The Clean Energy Headspace will kick off the Earth Day Celebrations on April 14, 2024, from noon to 6 p.m. at East 17th Street and Park Ave South in Union Square Park. The Clean Energy Headspace will include personal accounts of the positive impact the clean energy transition has had on New York City — from the oysters in the Hudson to bodegas in Queens.

“Con Edison’s vision is for every New Yorker to share the benefits of the clean energy transition. Still, many New Yorkers aren’t aware of exactly how this transition will benefit them,” said Tim Cawley, Con Edison’s chairman and chief executive. “That is why we are hitting the streets on Earth Day to speak with New Yorkers about why our investments in clean energy are so important – not just for the planet, but also for the lives of our customers and the communities we serve.”

Visitors to the Clean Energy Headspace exhibit will hear stories from community members about Con Edison’s milestone clean energy achievements, like their installation of “soft” shorelines with native vegetation which have increased shoreline resiliency and biodiversity; their planting of trees which have the potential to reduce urban heat island effect by up to 6 degrees; and the construction of green roofs on new substations, which reduces the risk of flooding. Audio will be available in both English and Spanish.

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The Clean Energy Headspace Exhibit is part of the Earth Day 2024 Festival, which brings together dozens of environmental nonprofits, climate campaigns, and sustainable businesses, as well as live entertainment, kids’ activities, and climate art. Con Edison is proud to support additional Earth Day 2024 events throughout the five boroughs and Westchester including:

Bronx: Education and stewardship activities with The Bronx is Blooming (events throughout the month of April)
Manhattan: Harlem Grown’s Earth Day Festival (April 20; rain date April 21)
Staten Island: Con Edison Family Science: Earth Day Edition at Greenbelt Conservancy (April 23)
Westchester County: Arbor Day with White Plains Beautification Foundation (April 26)
Brooklyn: Earth Day Festival at Fort Greene Park Conservancy (April 27)
Queens: Climate Arts Festival at Queens Botanical Garden (April 27)

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 $66 billion in assets. The utility delivers electricity, natural gas and steam, and serves 3.6 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 CUSTOMERS SET RECORDS IN 2023 FOR SOLAR, BATTERY & EV INSTALLATIONS

NEW YORK – Con Edison customers set records for solar and battery storage capacity and electric vehicle charging installations, as well as doubling electric vehicle sales in 2023, according to the company’s quarterly snapshot of customer adoption of clean energy technologies.

Customers also completed more than 5,600 heat pump installations this past year, topping 30,000 since 2020.

The Q4 results underscore Con Edison’s commitment to usher in a clean energy future that is smart, efficient, and enables every New Yorker to share the benefits of a more sustainable electric grid.

“It takes all of us to build a cleaner future, and we applaud our customers for doing their part to help us transition away from relying on harmful fossil fuels,” said Tim Cawley, chairman and CEO of Con Edison. “Through our programs and incentives, we look forward to another record-setting year as we work together with our customers to support New York’s clean energy goals.”

The records were reported in the latest Clean Energy Update. The update is a quarterly snapshot of four important clean energy technologies: solar generation, battery storage, electric vehicles and building electrification adopted by customers in the five boroughs of New York City and Westchester County. The data in this update is collected as part of the company’s work to build infrastructure capabilities, programs and incentives that make it easier for customers to install clean energy technologies in their homes and businesses.

Solar Generation

Con Edison customers installed more than 12,100 solar projects in 2023 with 92.1 megawatts (MW) of capacity.

That brings customers’ solar generating capacity to more than 579 MW.

That’s the same capacity as the largest solar farm in the country that provides electricity to almost 255,000 households.

Queens customers have the most solar installations, with 21,810 projects.

Westchester County customers lead in solar generation capacity with 155.8 MW followed closely by Queens’ 151.3 MW. Staten Islanders have installed 115.1 MW of capacity.

Forecast

New York’s first solar eclipse in 100 years on April 8 will last less than five minutes and have a negligible impact on Con Edison solar customers’ generation capacity. Upstate New Yorkers will have the best views according to Gov. Kathy Hochul. Remember to wear proper eye protection when viewing the eclipse.

Innovations

Four New York-based teams are semifinalists in the US Department of Energy’s American-Made Solar Prize Round 7. Two of the four finalists are in New York City. Check out their ideas in solar innovation here.

Battery Storage

Last year, customers installed 141 battery storage projects with a capacity of 21.8 MW, more than tripling the storage capacity that was installed in 2022 with 30 fewer projects.

In total, Con Edison customers installed 46.5 MW of storage capacity. They have now completed 588 installations.

Westchester customers completed 528 of the 588 battery storage projects with the capacity to store 13.6 MW. Brooklyn edged out Manhattan in the quarter with 18 systems installed.

Forecast

Community scale battery storage will play an even more important role as renewable energy replaces fossil-fuels. New legislation called the City of Yes for Carbon Neutrality is designed to make it easier to get battery storage projects approved and built in the five boroughs.

Trends

NYSERDA is offering New York City Retail Energy Storage programs additional incentives. A Feb. 29 webinar covered the details.

Innovations

Technological advances in battery storage provide customers with the opportunity to cut their energy costs and allow utilities to place more battery capacity on their properties. That’s important in New York City, where the density of development can limit space.

Con Edison last year placed the largest battery system in New York City into operation. The system at a substation in Fox Hills can discharge 7.5 megawatts for up to 30 hours, providing more reliability for Con Edison customers in the area.

Electric Vehicles & Charging

Con Edison’s PowerReady program has provided incentives for more than 6,600 vehicle charge plugs since it began in 2020. In 2023, more than 3,000 plugs were installed, setting a new annual record.

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

In November, the Public Service Commission authorized the second phase of Con Edison’s PowerReady program. Phase two significantly increases the charging plug goals and offers higher incentives that are more in line with today’s cost of installing EV chargers.

PowerReady now aims to support approximately 25,000 charging plugs by 2025, to achieve the installation of 400,000 plugs by 2035 – and 1 million by 2050.

Forecast

A 2023 study by the Environmental Defense Fund found that Con Edison’s PowerReady (formerly Make Ready) program “would have a neutral-to-beneficial impact on rates.” The report indicated that revenue generated by the program may reduce costs for all ratepayers.

Trends

There are 69,000 EVs on the road in NYC and Westchester, and as of the end of 2023,10 percent of the cars purchased in both NYC and Westchester were EVs. That’s double the sales share at the end of 2022, when only 5 percent of cars purchased in our service area were EVs.

Innovations

To get ahead of the demand for EV charging, Con Edison has a new program that provides incentives to charging operators to promote off-peak and overnight charging with their fleets or for their customers. The program, SmartCharge Commercial, will help incentivize the building of charging ports and provide the company with insight into customer charging behavior, and how price signals impact charging habits.

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 that move energy from the air or stored in the earth to provide carbon-free heating and cooling.

In 2023, Con Edison’s Clean Heat Program committed $72 million in incentives for customer projects.

The company rolled out a new incentive structure for its residential program in January 2023. The program has gained momentum utilizing a strong education and outreach effort to build awareness and interest in heat pump technology. The year ended with 5,619 projects completed.

Forecast

Con Edison expects strong growth in customers’ transition to air and ground source heat pumps this year. The company is continuing to invest in building customer awareness around these technologies and clean heat incentives.

Trends

Air source heat pumps remain the most popular choice for customers in 2023.

Innovations

Con Edison has proposed three pilot projects in response to the Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act. This program is scaling heat pump technology so that multiple buildings can use it for heating and cooling. To hear more about it, listen to Con Edison’s Current Thought podcast.

Brooklyn Resident and Bronx Native is a Key Player In Con Edison’s Clean Energy Transition and Safe, Reliable Service

NEW YORK – An engineer who uses her talents to help Con Edison keep service safe and reliable and transition to clean energy has earned recognition as an Achiever in Industry from the Harlem YMCA.

Francheska Wilson, whose work the past 23 years has touched every part of Con Edison’s expansive electric delivery system, won the honor from the Y’s bai program.

The program, formerly called Black Achievers in Industry, recognizes leaders in business for their contributions at work and in the community and for their ethical behavior.

“It’s truly rewarding to receive this honor from the Harlem YMCA, an organization deeply rooted in the community, with a rich history of empowering young people to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams” said Wilson, who joined Con Edison in June 2001. “I share this award with my colleagues here at Con Edison who are dedicated to supplying reliable service for our customers and also share a passion for mentoring and community service.”

She said the award is especially meaningful because the Harlem Y was part of her commute from the Soundview section of the Bronx to A. Philip Randolph Campus High School as a teenager.

“That walk up the hill from the 2 Train at 135th Street was no joke”, she remembered with a chuckle. “High school was when I started envisioning my future. The Harlem Y is part of the landscape of that pivotal time in my life.”

Wilson, who now lives in the Crown Heights neighborhood in Brooklyn, was initially exposed to opportunities in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) during junior high school with the support of guidance counselors and teachers, as she excelled in math and science.

“A Career Day, where a local professional shared his experiences, planted the idea of an engineering career in my mind,” she said. “I thought, ‘I can do that’.’”

“Our customers and company benefit every day from Francheska’s talent, dedication and example,” said Patrick Williams, a general manager in System and Transmission Operations and Wilson’s supervisor. “It takes true professionals like Francheska to run our complex electric delivery system, so that we can maintain our industry-leading reliability.”

Leo B. Marsh, the first Black president of the Association of the YMCA, founded the bai program in 1971 to help underserved teens prepare for college and explore careers. The program provides mentoring, tours of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, corporate scholarships and corporate internships. Students can get scholarships to put toward college.

Wilson has held numerous jobs at Con Edison, where she went to work after getting her bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering at Polytechnic University (now called the New York University Tandon School of Engineering) in Brooklyn.

She is now the chief district operator in System & Transmission Operations, where her duties include working on the company’s capital investment strategy to support the state’s ambitious climate law, the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act.

Wilson has managed substations in the Bronx and Manhattan and the electric control room in Manhattan, which dispatches crews to perform maintenance on the electric delivery system or respond to service issues. She has also designed major upgrades to the system in New York City and Westchester County.

CON EDISON INVESTS IN BETTER TOOLS FOR THE PEOPLE WHO ARE BUILDING THE CLEAN ENERGY FUTURE

Con Edison & Partners Are Developing Tools to Keep Workers Safer and

Improve Grid Resiliency & Reliability to Combat Effects of Extreme Weather

NEW YORK – Con Edison is developing technology that will help improve the safety of its highly-skilled workers as they build, maintain and repair the underground electric cables that carry the power needed to achieve a clean energy future.

“To meet ambitious climate goals and mitigate the impacts of climate change, the energy industry is undergoing seismic shifts in the speed and scope of its work,” said Patrick McHugh, senior vice president, Electric Operations, Con Edison. “That’s why Con Edison is thinking boldly about what we do and how we do it with safety as our top priority. We are investing in technology that will help keep energy workers safer, make their work more efficient, and produce consistent results that will improve reliability and resiliency for customers.”

Con Edison is working on two projects that will improve worker safety by putting a machine rather than a person near the underground power cable to do the work.

Thousands of cable splices are required each year to maintain service to customers while repairs, maintenance and upgrades are made. Splicers, the people who perform splices, often work in cramped underground structures subject to the elements – snow, sleet, rain, and extreme temperatures. They have used the same tools for generations.

Earlier this month Con Edison and ULC Technologies began field testing the Underground Live End Cap Machine. The live end cap machine makes isolating damaged cables safer for workers and improves the precision, uniformity, and speed of their work.

End capping is an essential technique used to isolate faulty sections of cable and allow the working portions of the cable to be restored to service to alleviate stress on the grid and reduce customer outages.

The other project, with Prysmian, Exelon and the U.S. Department of Energy Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) will develop a machine that can join two cables at their ends.

This machine will be used for creating networks as well as repairing sections of damaged cable. Splicers will be able to operate the tool remotely to improve their safety, with greater efficiency, and accuracy, which will ultimately improve the reliability of the nation’s grid. In addition to reducing risk and the time cable splicing crews need to spend underground, the device will improve the reliability of the splices and the time needed to complete a splice.

The ARPA-E has provided $4.5 million in funding for this effort.

Prysmian will be at booth 659 and ULC Technologies will be at booth 760 at the upcoming DistribuTECH International Conference on Feb. 26th to Feb. 29th at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando Florida.

CON EDISON TO AWARD $3 MILLION OVER 3 YEARS TO SUPPORT CLIMATE JUSTICE & RESILIENCY IN NYC & WESTCHESTER

NEW YORK – Con Edison is issuing a request for proposals (RFP) to provide an initial grant of up to $3 million over the next three years to help local organizations combat the effects of extreme heat and other climate-related extreme weather events on disadvantaged and historically marginalized communities across the five boroughs and in Westchester County.

Nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and community partners are invited to apply for funding under this grant. The deadline for submitting proposals is May 3^rd, 2024.

“We are committed to ensuring that disadvantaged and historically marginalized communities are centered in the benefits of our climate resiliency investments, working in parallel with New York State’s ambitious energy transition laws,” said Jen Hensley, Con Edison’s senior vice president for Corporate Affairs. “We look forward to supporting community-based solutions to build climate resiliency for those who too often disproportionately bear the brunt of the effects of climate change, including extreme heat and other weather events.”

The company is seeking to fund proposals that will cultivate leaders, expand community-based knowledge, empower advocacy, and demonstrate activities that tangibly plan, prepare, and/or support community members for relevant climate events. Climate events include extreme weather events outlined in the company’s Climate Change Resiliency Plan that disproportionately impacts disadvantaged and historically marginalized communities. Winning proposals will offer community-driven programs or initiatives that build and advance resiliency for their communities.

The RFP reflects Con Edison’s community giving strategy to invest in nonprofits that share the company’s vision to combat the effects of climate change, advance social justice, environmental stewardship, and create green jobs in the communities it serves throughout the five boroughs and Westchester.

Earlier this year, Con Edison awarded $4 million in grants to four non-profit organizations who will provide training over three years for more than 1,200 participants from underserved communities for careers in clean energy and technology fields.

The announcement is part of Con Edison’s commitment to help usher in a clean energy future equitably and efficiently with the goal of every New Yorker sharing in the benefits of a more sustainable grid.

Application materials must be emailed to powerofgiving@coned.com on or before

May 3^rd 2024, at 5:00 p.m. ET. To learn more about this funding opportunity, contact powerofgiving@coned.com

CON EDISON AWARDS $4 MILLION IN GRANTS TO TRAIN NEW YORK’S NEXT CLEAN ENERGY WORKFORCE

Con Edison is Investing in Nonprofits Combatting Climate Change,
Advancing Social Justice & Creating Green Jobs

NEW YORK – Con Edison, as part of its ongoing commitment to usher in New York’s clean energy transition, is granting awards totaling more than $4 million to four New York nonprofit organizations. These organizations will train more than 1,200 participants from underserved communities for careers in clean energy and technology fields over the next three years.

The four nonprofit organizations include: Green City Force, LaGuardia Community College, Public Housing Community Fund, and RETI Center.

These awards reflect Con Edison’s charitable grant efforts to invest in nonprofits that share the company’s vision to combat the effects of climate change, advance social justice, and create green jobs in the communities it serves.

“Con Edison’s vision is for every New Yorker to be able to share in the benefits of the clean energy transition,” said Tim Cawley, chairman and CEO, Con Edison. “We are proud to invest in these partners who will create pathways to well-paying careers in clean energy. We want to help build a clean energy economy that will make New York a model for the rest of the country.”

“These grants represent Con Edison’s investment in the people we serve, helping them develop skills, competencies and receive experiential learning opportunities so they can enjoy rewarding careers in clean energy fields that will in turn benefit our communities and our environment,” Cawley continued.

The four nonprofit agencies were chosen for their efforts to break down barriers and increase opportunities for participation in historically disadvantaged communities. They include:

Green City Force (GCF) will train hundreds of program participants in clean energy, building on its current curriculum. Con Edison’s support will help GCF increase its staff expertise in clean energy and efficiency sectors. It will help provide its members with career preparation, job placement, advancement support, and job coaching at all steps in their professional career. This will help young adults build the career readiness skills they need to enter the green workforce.

“Green City Force is thrilled to build on our longstanding partnership with Con Edison.” said Tonya Gayle, executive director, Green City Force. “This multi-year investment will expand our capacity to enable young adults of color from low-income backgrounds to learn about the growing clean energy field during their service term, provide trainings, and create job pathways for them. In the fight against climate change, this ensures that frontline communities–often overlooked–have a say in solutions that impact their lives, while developing the next generation of skilled workers in the green economy.”

LaGuardia Community College, in partnership with Urban Upbound and Building Skills NY, will recruit from low-income communities of color, including public housing residents from the Queensbridge, Ravenswood, and Astoria Houses, to train job seekers as solar installation technicians and electrical helpers, and connect them to a range of clean energy jobs. In addition, with the help of Con Edison volunteer mentors, the program will provide retention services and financial counseling to graduates for one year to help participants succeed and advance their careers over time.

“We are grateful to Con Edison for supporting the launch of our Solar Technician Workforce program,” said Kenneth Adams, president of LaGuardia Community College. “With support from Con Edison, training and supporting individuals from communities that have borne the brunt of environmental and economic injustice, such as public housing residents in Long Island City and Astoria, will lead to both the economic empowerment of these communities and improved quality of life for workers and their families. LaGuardia looks forward to providing training to NYCHA residents for rewarding careers in solar energy.”

Public Housing Community Fund, in partnership with New York City College of Technology (City Tech), will support NYCHA Caretaker H Heating Technology Training Program. This program teaches about traditional and innovative heating technologies, with a special emphasis on providing a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job training in heating fundamentals, mechanics, repair, and maintenance of heating equipment and provision of heat and hot water for all NYCHA-managed properties.

“The Public Housing Community Fund is immensely grateful for Con Edison’s support, which marks a transformative step towards empowering NYCHA residents through the NYCHA Caretaker H Heating Technology Training Program. This grant fuels our mission to provide vital skills, training, and knowledge in clean energy technologies and paves the way for sustainable, long-term employment opportunities within our communities,” said Public Housing Community Fund Executive Director Alex Zablocki. “Through a partnership with the New York City Housing Authority and CUNY City Tech, funding from Con Edison allows us to nurture a new generation of green energy professionals. This public-private partnership is a testament to the power of community, education, and industry to forge a cleaner, greener, and more equitable future for New York City.”

“The Caretaker H program will teach NYCHA residents the fundamentals of heating technology, repair, and maintenance,” said NYCHA Chief Operating Officer Eva Trimble. “We are appreciative of the opportunity to work alongside Con Edison and the Public Housing Community Fund on this hands-on job training that NYCHA residents will be able to apply towards careers in this field.”

RETI Center, in partnership with Good Shepherd Services, Brooklyn Solar Works, and Cambio Labs, will expand its Local Power workforce training program to provide community members in all five boroughs with hands-on skills training, certifications, and work experience in the renewable energy sector. The program will build out a green careers pipeline at local high schools to support clean energy and climate-related occupations. Training modules will also be added for electric vehicle infrastructure installation and maintenance, battery storage, and offshore wind.

“The Con Edison Clean Energy Careers Award comes at a transformative moment, for RETI Center, the economy, and our changing energy systems,” said Tim Gilman-Ševčík, executive director, RETI. “With this award we can make sure that it’s opening new opportunities for historically marginalized communities to be part of this transformation and to receive the benefits they’ve been excluded from for so long.”

Con Edison is focusing on investing in nonprofits and community partners who share a commitment to combat the effects of climate change, advance social justice in communities, and create green jobs across the New York metro area.

CON EDISON CREWS MOBILIZING FOR TUESDAY MORNING SNOW AND WINDSTORM Company is Ready to Respond to Service Problems; Storm Could Bring Down Power Lines; Stay Away from Downed Lines for Your Own Safety

NEW YORK – Con Edison is activating 250 mutual aid workers to augment company crews in restoring any outages Storm Lorraine may cause with its forecasted heavy, wet snow and strong winds.

The crews are scheduled to arrive tonight, in time for the start of rain, which will change to snow in some parts of Con Edison’s service area..

The snow and winds can cause trees and branches to fall onto power lines and bring those lines down, causing customers to lose service and creating a safety hazard.

The company urges members of the public to stay safe. Stay away from downed wires. They may be live.

In addition, the melting snow can carry road salt into manholes. The salty water makes contact with underground electric delivery cables, possibly causing service problems for customers served by the underground system.

The rain may also cause coastal flooding. In the event of major flooding, the company would have to wait for flood waters to recede before workers enter some facilities to assess damage.

To ensure public safety, Con Edison may guard downed wires until crews make repairs. Company 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.

How to Report 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, with Con Edison’s mobile app for iOS or Android devices, or by calling 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.

Text messages and e-mails will be sent to customers in areas forecasted to be hardest hit by this storm.

Safety Tips

Do not go near downed 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 snow, 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.
Exercise extreme caution when entering flooded basements. Water that comes into contact with energized electrical equipment can create dangerous conditions and cause serious injury.
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.
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.
Charge your cellphones and other mobile devices while you have power.
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 LAUNCHES FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND MANAGED CHARGING REWARDS PROGRAM FOR COMMERCIAL OPERATORS

Will Accelerate the Adoption of Electric Vehicle (EV) Chargers by
Commercial Charging Operators in NYC and Westchester County

NEW YORK – Con Edison is launching a first-of-its-kind managed charging rewards program for commercial charging station operators. The initiative, SmartCharge Commercial, will accelerate the adoption of electric vehicle chargers by commercial operators and drive the company closer to its clean energy transportation goals.

Building on the success of Con Edison’s SmartCharge New York managed charging rewards program, which is focused on personal drivers, the new SmartCharge Commercial offers operators of eligible commercial charging stations, including public, workplace, multifamily, retail and fleet sites, financial rewards for charging overnight and for avoiding charging when the local demand for power is high.

“Con Edison is thinking more boldly about ways to serve increased demand from electric vehicles and strengthen the sustainability of our energy grid as more of our customers transition to electric vehicles, including medium- and heavy-duty fleets,” said Britt Reichborn-Kjennerud, director of E-Mobility & Demonstrations at Con Edison. “SmartCharge Commercial will facilitate the buildout of commercial charging stations, which will increase the number of electric vehicles on our roads. It will encourage station operators to lower their charging load when local power demand on the grid is high. This can benefit all of New York City and Westchester, while providing us important insights into customer charging to help us better plan the grid to support future electric vehicle demand.”

Con Edison makes clear in its Clean Energy Commitment, adopting more electric vehicles is integral to helping New York State meet its emissions targets. New York State’s ambitious goals require that all new light-duty vehicle sales must be zero emission by 2035, with the first requirements on sales starting in 2025, and all new medium- and heavy-duty sales to be zero emission by 2045 with requirements on sales starting this year, and then starting in 2027 all school buses sold in New York State must be zero emissions. Con Edison supports policies that require that 100 percent of vehicles sold by 2030 to be electric.

Description automatically generatedCon Edison will pay up to $194 million the next three years to site hosts to foster this grid-beneficial charging as the state and region transition to cleaner transportation.

“Con Edison continues to be one of Revel’s most important partners in our mission to bring reliable public fast charging to every New Yorker,” said Tobias Lescht, head of infrastructure for Revel. “The new SmartCharge Commercial program, which Revel is excited to be a first participant in, is a strong commitment to New York’s clean EV future. This incentive program will significantly lower operating costs at Revel’s public fast charging stations, allowing us to reinvest more in the communities that will benefit most from emission-eliminating EVs.”

The SmartCharge Commercial Program focuses on station operators reducing their usage during periods of high electricity usage at the local network level. Different neighborhoods across our area peak during different times of day. Find out which network peak your site falls under here. Higher incentives are available for publicly accessible stations and transit charging.

Charging data submission from the EV chargers will be required to calculate program earnings.

Encouraging EV charging during off-peak hours, will mean less stress on the electric grid and benefits Con Edison’s customers in New York City and Westchester County.

The commercial program builds on Con Edison’s SmartCharge New York program, which began in 2017 and provides incentives to owners of electric vehicles in New York City and Westchester County who charge off-peak.

The SmartCharge New York program lets customers earn these benefits:

· $25 3-Month Bonus: Earned per vehicle or charging station after three months of charging (does not need to be consecutive);

· 10 cents per kWh Off-Peak Charging Incentive: Earned for charging at off-peak times;

· $35 per month Avoided Summer Peak Incentive: Earned per vehicle or charging station for avoiding charging weekdays 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. EST, June 1 through September 30;

· $35 Avoided Summer Peak Bonus Incentive: Earned per vehicle or charging station for avoiding all charging weekdays 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. EST, June 1 through September 30;

· Participants can also earn bonus incentives for referring a friend, participating in surveys, and more. Drivers can earn upwards of $1000 a year.

Charging data is automatically collected from the vehicle’s onboard telematics or smart charging station. The charge data is then used to calculate your earnings. You can access the SmartCharge website to view your charging and earnings at any time.

People can participate in both SmartCharge NY and SmartCharge Commercial.

Con Edison is a subsidiary of Consolidated Edison, Inc. [NYSE: ED], one of the nation’s largest investor-owned energy companies, with approximately $16 billion in annual revenues and $64 billion in assets. The utility delivers electricity, natural gas and steam, and serves 3.6 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.

Caption, Image One: A Revel employee charging electric rideshare vehicles at Revel’s flagship public fast charging Superhub in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn. Photo courtesy of Revel.

CON EDISON PROVIDES $5 MILLION FOR LARGEST RESIDENTIAL ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING PROJECT IN NYC Site Will Have 423 Level 2 Charging Stations and Accelerate EV Adoption in Region

NEW YORK – New York City’s largest residential electric vehicle charging project has found its home at Hilltop Village Cooperative, an apartment complex in Queens, through Con Edison’s PowerReady program.

Exhaust from cars, trucks, and buses represent one of the largest sources of carbon emissions across the country. Through Con Edison’s PowerReady program, and in partnership with DVM Industries, the incentives will support upgrading Hilltop Village Cooperative’s electric infrastructure and make the site suitable for 423 Level 2 electric vehicle charging stations. Level 2 chargers can charge a battery overnight.

Overall, these upgrades will help make the transition to electric vehicles more affordable for station operators and drivers.

“As more of our customers adopt electric vehicles, Con Edison is thinking more boldly about ways to serve increased demand and strengthen the sustainability of our energy grid,” said Raghu Sudhakara, Vice President of Distributed Resource Integration at Con Edison. “We are proud to support New York City’s largest residential electric vehicle charging site as we work with our community partners to transition away from fossil fuels and toward a cleaner energy future.”

PowerReady is currently the largest utility EV charging infrastructure program in the country. It will provide up to $585 million of customer incentives with a goal to support the connection of about 25,000 EV charging plugs to the grid through 2025.

A person holding a phone

Description automatically generated“With the rapid expansion of electric vehicles across our city and the nation, I am pleased to see the installation of charging stations for residents at the Hilltop Village Community,” said New York City Council Member Linda Lee. “As a driver of an EV myself, I look forward to seeing more electric vehicles on the road, and even more charging stations, as residents across the city commit to the sustainability of our environment. Thank you to the team at Con Edison for your work to ensure the energy efficiency of our neighborhoods.”

“This exciting and challenging project pieces together multiple trades- electrical, excavation/sitework, engineering, as well as significant coordination with the building staff spanning across nine buildings,” said James Justice, executive vice president, DVM Industries – an energy solutions company that installs electric vehicle chargers. “DVM, Con Edison, and the Hilltop team worked cohesively from start to finish and we are extremely proud of the result. Establishing this infrastructure equips Hilltop for today’s needs and they are well positioned for a more energy-efficient future!”

“With EV charging infrastructure, we expect to see higher EV adoption here in the community and we are another step closer to our sustainability goals,” said Jay Strobing, AKAM Management Property Manager for Hilltop Village Co-Op. “Thank you to DVM for doing such a great job and Con Edison for their support throughout the process!”

“We thank the collaboration of DVM and Con Edison for successfully retrofitting our buildings with electric vehicle charging stations,” said Sandra D. Aikens, president of Hilltop Village Co-Op #One, Inc. “With this project’s completion Hilltop Village has met a milestone towards its goal to reduce carbon emissions. Our charging stations provide shareholders with convenience and safety as they transition from gas to electric vehicles. Hilltop Village is proud to enhance our community’s participation in the advancement towards a sustainable future for all.”

Caption Image One: A resident of Hilltop Village Co-Op charges her electric vehicle using one of the 423 Level 2 chargers being installed at the multifamily complex through Con Edison’s PowerReady program and DVM Industries.

Caption Image Two: A resident of Hilltop Village Co-Op monitors her electric vehicle charging status on her cellphone.

CON EDISON’S RELIABLE CLEAN CITY – IDLEWILD PROJECT RECEIVES STATE AUTHORIZATION

Will Enhance Reliability and Support Clean Energy Transition for Millions of Queens Residents, Visitors & Businesses

NEW YORK – Today the New York State Public Service Commission voted to authorize the construction of Con Edison’s proposed Reliable Clean City – Idlewild Project in Queens. The project represents a major step forward in further facilitating a clean energy future so every New Yorker can share in the benefits of a safe, reliable, climate-resilient grid. Driven by forecasted electrification of existing medium- and heavy-duty vehicle fleets in the area, the project will facilitate cleaner air for local residents and catalyze progress toward the state’s goal to mitigate climate change.

“As we work towards New York’s clean energy goals, we must think more boldly about ways to serve increased demand for electricity while maintaining a reliable grid as customers transition away from fossil fuels,” said Tim Cawley, Con Edison’s chairman and chief executive. “By investing in our Reliable Clean City – Idlewild project, we are building New York’s clean energy infrastructure while creating good jobs, advancing New York’s climate goals, and ensuring that our grid remains reliable for customers in Southeast Queens for decades to come.”

The $1.2 billion investment will create two new substations and a new Springfield electric network to meet the growth in customer electricity use in Queens while enabling and providing clean energy to homes, businesses, and major transportation hubs. The project is a step in building the grid of the future, providing for continued electrification and redevelopment at downtown Jamaica, John F. Kennedy International Airport and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s bus fleet.

“As the first U.S. transportation agency to set a net-zero target for all emissions, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey welcomes Con Edison’s Reliable Clean City – Idlewild Project,” said Teresa Rizzuto, general manager of JFK International Airport. “The project will play an important role in our mission to keep the region moving in a way that’s efficient, equitable, resilient, reliable, and sustainable as we build a new world class JFK International Airport.”

“Con Edison’s Reliable Clean City – Idlewild Project will create good-paying, green jobs for skilled union workers and lift the standard of living in our region,” said Jim Shillitto, president of Local 1-2 of the Utility Workers Union of America. “This project will demonstrate utility workers’ essential role in creating a clean energy future. Our dedicated workers are at the forefront of the movement away from fossil fuels and towards renewables.”

The Reliable Clean City – Idlewild Project will enable Con Edison to accommodate new sources of renewable energy and increased demand, while maintaining its nation-leading reliability in Queens. In addition, it will provide interconnection points for energy storage and enable large clean energy resources to interconnect with the Con Edison system, which advances the State’s renewable energy goals included in the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act.

“With numerous historic clean energy projects slated for or already in progress here in Queens, The World’s Borough is poised to lead New York State’s green revolution for years to come. Con Edison’s Reliable Clean City – Idlewild Project represents yet another step toward that cleaner, greener future for Queens, as we work to rapidly transition away from fossil fuels,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “This project takes on even more meaning when we consider the disparate health impacts Southeast Queens residents have experienced due to climate change, pollution and other issues tied to fossil fuel usage. I look forward to working closely with Con Edison to bring this new substation online in the years to come.”

“As extreme weather events become more prevalent, and our aging utility networks become more fragile, I applaud Con Edison for its visionary commitment to a clean energy future,” said State Senator Leroy Comrie. “Projects with a future-forward focus are vital to addressing the need for better infrastructure, safety and resilience for the tens of thousands of residents and businesses that call Queens home.”

“We must be forward looking and visionary as we plan for a future powered by clean, renewable energy,” said Nantasha Williams, New York City Council Member. “Con Edison will leverage the extraordinary skills of unionized workers to produce a project full of the latest technologies and ensure that our wonderful southeast Queens region has the energy service we need.”

“The Idlewild Project is a pivotal advancement in our clean energy journey and will spur innovation and economic growth for decades to come,” said Justin Rodgers, President and CEO of Greater Jamaica Development Corporation. “The project will benefit local businesses and provide a sense of environmental justice to the community, which will soon be able to have access to clean energy.”

Con Edison is committed to ensuring the local community shares in the economic benefits of the investment. It will achieve this through community engagement, workforce development, and community partnerships.

Con Edison is proud of its record of providing high quality safety standards throughout infrastructure projects to both employees and the communities we serve, and in doing so, the Idlewild construction process will move forward with worker safety and air and water quality preservation as top priorities.

NYC EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ISSUES TRAVEL ADVISORY FOR SNOW & POSSIBLE FREEZING PRECIPITATION MONDAY NIGHT INTO TUESDAY

Alternate Side Parking Regulations will be suspended tomorrow, Tuesday, January 16, 2024. Payment at parking meters will remain in effect throughout the city

January 15, 2024 – The New York City Emergency Management Department has placed the city under a Travel Advisory due to expected snow and possible freezing precipitation tonight into tomorrow. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory in effect citywide from 8 p.m. Monday, January 15, until 1 p.m. Tuesday, January 16, 2024. The latest NWS forecast calls for light snow to begin as early as 8 p.m. tonight, becoming increasingly steadier and heavier overnight. Accumulations of 2 to 3 inches are expected by daybreak tomorrow, likely resulting in slippery roads for the morning commute. The northern portions of the city could see as much as 4 inches of snow. New Yorkers should anticipate and plan for at least minor travel delays, with difficult travel in some instances.

The bulk of the snow is expected to end by mid-morning with light precipitation continuing through the early afternoon. A mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain or drizzle will be possible during this time. Freezing precipitation may result in an instant layer of ice, particularly on non-snow-covered or exposed roadways that are untreated and/or elevated, such as bridges. Pedestrian walkways can also be immediately affected by freezing precipitation. Even though icy conditions will likely be patchy and not blanket the entire city, New Yorkers are urged to be very mindful of this threat, not only while driving, but also to avoid slips and falls. The most likely window for freezing precipitation is between about 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Tuesday.

There may be a quick changeover back to light snow in the early afternoon before all precipitation comes to an end sometime between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Significant impacts are not anticipated for the evening commute at this time, although residual snow and ice could again result in a few travel delays. Outside of any freezing precipitation, there will also be a chance for any melted snow or standing water to re-freeze later in the evening. Temperatures during the day are predicted to nose above freezing, particularly closer to the coast. Alongside the rain, this would allow for some melting, which may then re-freeze as temperatures drop after sunset. Abundant sunshine during the day Wednesday could result in another melt/re-freeze cycle with patchy ice possible in the evening.

A cold airmass settles into the region following the storm. Temperatures are forecast to be several degrees below the norm throughout the week with lows in the low 20s and wind chills in the teens to single digits. This will be the city’s longest and coldest outbreak of the season thus far. A second storm late this week could bring another round of snow and an even colder air over the weekend, with wind chills potentially nearing zero alongside gusty winds. Temperatures may not rise above freezing until next Monday, resulting in the possibility of frozen or burst pipes.

“With snowfall projected to hit our area this evening into tomorrow morning, New Yorkers should take the necessary precautions to remain safe,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “While it’s been nearly two years since New York City experienced more than an inch of snowfall, all relevant city agencies have been activated and are prepared to handle whatever comes our way. As a reminder, New Yorkers should sign up for Notify NYC to keep up to date on winter weather.”

“New Yorkers should prepare for hazardous travel conditions tonight and tomorrow,” said NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol. “With cold temperatures and steadily accumulating snowfall overnight, there’s a good chance for slick snow-covered roadways and travel delays during the morning commute. We’re also closely monitoring the potential for freezing precipitation and a light wintry mix that may result in patchy ice in the late morning through the early afternoon. It’s been about 700 days since Central Park last recorded an inch or more of snow, and it’s likely this prolonged dry spell will come to an end by tomorrow morning if the forecast holds. We’re also anticipating a cold spell that may last through next Monday. Wind chills could be in the teens to single digits each day this week, with even colder conditions possible over the weekend. I urge everyone to bundle up when traveling and check on their neighbors, especially those who are older and those who may need extra assistance. Finally, I want to commend the tireless efforts of our emergency crews and first responders who are at the forefront, ensuring this city’s safety and readiness. I also want provide our heartfelt thanks to all New Yorkers for their continued support and cooperation as we confront these challenges together.”

“When precipitation begins, our salt spreading operation will already be well underway, and we won’t stop until the City is safe and clear. We ask all New Yorkers to exercise caution and to give our plows and spreaders the space to do their critical work. It may have been 700 days since the last real snow hit the City, but we are more ready than ever,” said Jessica Tisch, Commissioner, NYC Department of Sanitation.

NYC Emergency Management has proactively activated the City’s Winter Weather Emergency Plan in response to the forecasted conditions. This includes conducting coordination calls with the National Weather Service and city and state agencies and utility partners, and bolstering staffing at the Emergency Operations Center, which is already operational due to the city’s ongoing asylum seeker operations. The administration announced that Alternate Side Parking Regulations will be suspended tomorrow, Tuesday, January 16, 2024. Payment at parking meters will remain in effect throughout the city

As part of the Winter Weather Emergency Plan, the NYC Department of Sanitation (DSNY) has issued a Snow Alert and is fully prepared with a fleet of 700 spreaders. During a Snow Alert, the Department collaborates closely with NYC Emergency Management and the Department of Transportation to implement snow clearing protocols, adhering to the detailed snow plans established by each agency. Based on the anticipated weather, between 20 million pounds of salt could potentially be deployed to manage the snow and ice conditions effectively. DSNY will be tracking operations via its new Bladerunner 2.0 platform, allowing real-time adjustments as conditions require. Every street is on a route and, for the first time, every route can be dispatched at the same time.

NYC Department of Homeless Services is under an Enhanced Code Blue, conducting outreach every 2 hours between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. No one who is homeless and seeking shelter in New York City during a Code Blue will be denied. Should you see an individual who appears to be homeless and in need out in the cold, please call 311 and an outreach team will be dispatched to offer assistance.

NYCEM offers New Yorkers tips on staying safe before, during, and after winter storms at on.nyc.gov/winterweather.
Stay informed. Before and during an emergency, the city will send emergency alerts and updates to New Yorkers through various channels, including Notify NYC. Sign up for emergency notifications online or call 311. You can also follow @NotifyNYC on Twitter.
If you have to go outdoors, wear dry, warm clothing and cover exposed skin. Keep fingertips, earlobes, and noses covered. Wear a hat, hood, scarf, and gloves.
Shivering is an important first sign that the body is losing heat. Shivering is a signal to return indoors.
Be safe at work. Workers who spend a lot of time outdoors are at risk for cold-related health impacts. If you are an employer, implement safe work practices, provide appropriate protective equipment, and train workers on how to stay safe during cold and winter weather.
Allow for extra travel time and expect delays with little to no notice. Use public transportation whenever possible.
If you must drive, drive slowly. Use major streets or highways for travel whenever possible. 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.
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.
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)

CON EDISON CREWS MOBILIZING FOR TUESDAY NIGHT’S RAIN AND WINDSTORM Company Reminds the Public to Stay Away from Downed Wires; Company Calling on Mutual Aid Crews to Restore Customers

NEW YORK – Con Edison is activating hundreds of contractor workers to augment company crews to restore any outages caused by the rain and windstorm expected to hit the region Tuesday evening.

The company urges members of the public to stay safe. Stay away from downed wires. They may be live.

Con Edison has secured 705 outside workers to assist in addressing power outages and other service problems.

The strong winds can cause trees and branches to fall onto power lines and bring those lines down, causing customers to lose service and creating a safety hazard.

In addition, the rain can carry road salt into manholes. The salty water makes contact with underground electric delivery cables, possibly causing service problems for customers served by the underground system.

The rain may also cause coastal flooding. In the event of major flooding, the company would have to wait for flood waters to recede before workers enter some facilities to assess damage.

To ensure public safety, Con Edison may guard downed wires until crews make repairs. Company 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.

How to Report an Outage

Text messages will be sent to customers in areas forecasted to be hardest hit by this storm.

Safety Tips

Do not go near downed 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 snow, 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.
Exercise extreme caution when entering flooded basements. Water that comes into contact with energized electrical equipment can create dangerous conditions and cause serious injury.
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.
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.

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

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.

NYC EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ISSUES TRAVEL ADVISORY FOR WINTER STORM

Heavy Rain, Strong to Damaging Winds, and Moderate Coastal Flooding Expected Across NYC

January 8, 2024 – The New York City Emergency Management Department has issued a Travel Advisory for the evening of Tuesday, January 9 into Wednesday morning, January 10, 2024, as a strong storm impacts the region. Several National Weather Service products have been issued for this storm.

A Flood Watch is in effect citywide from 6:00 p.m. tomorrow to 12:00 p.m. Wednesday. Rain may start off light tomorrow afternoon with heavy rain developing in the evening and continuing through early Wednesday morning. The heaviest rainfall is expected between 9:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m., with spotty showers possible through about noon. Thunderstorms and lightning will also be possible overnight. The forecast calls for citywide rainfall amounts of 2 to 3 inches at rates around 0.5 inch/hour, with locally higher amounts and rates possible. A rising high tide tomorrow evening in New York Harbor and Jamaica Bay may coincide with the onset of heavy rain, resulting in compound flooding along vulnerable roadways near the shoreline, which may result in travel disruptions for the evening commute. Additional impacts include widespread minor flooding and localized flash flooding of roadways and properties overnight, with residual flooding possible during the Wednesday morning commute. Areas adjacent to the Bronx River may see significant flooding overnight and Wednesday morning due to snowmelt and heavy rain occurring upstream.

A High Wind Warning is in effect for Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island from 6:00 p.m. tomorrow to 6:00 a.m. Wednesday. A Wind Advisory is also in effect for the same time for the Bronx and Manhattan. In Warning areas, southeast winds of 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 60 mph are expected, highest along the southern coast. In Advisory areas, winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts of 50 mph are forecast. The period of strongest winds will be from about 10:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m. Potential impacts include scattered to widespread downed trees and limbs, power outages, damage to unsecured items, and difficult travel.

A Coastal Flood Warning is in effect for southern Queens from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Wednesday. A Coastal Flood Advisory is also in effect for Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Staten Island from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Wednesday. Widespread minor to moderate coastal flooding is expected, with up to 2 to 3 feet of inundation possible along shorelines in Warning areas, and 1 to 2 feet of inundation possible in Advisory areas. This may result in widespread flooding of roadways, properties, basements and first floor structures, numerous road closures, and flood-damaged vehicles, especially for southern Queens and Jamaica Bay on Wednesday morning. The tide will peak around 7:00 a.m. Wednesday in New York Harbor and Jamaica Bay, and around 10:00 a.m. in the Long Island Sound. Large breaking waves of 10 to 15 feet and high surf are also likely at Atlantic-facing beaches, resulting in significant dune erosion and overwash.

“More inclement weather is expected to hit New York City tomorrow night, bringing with it heavy rains, strong winds, and the potential for flooding,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “Our city government is prepared to respond to whatever comes our way, but residents should also take the necessary precautions to stay safe and protect their belongings. I encourage all New Yorkers to sign up for Notify NYC to get the latest information and closely monitor the forecast as this storm approaches.”

“As New York City prepares for a potent mix of heavy rain, potential flooding, and strong winds from Tuesday night through Wednesday morning, our dedicated teams are fully mobilized and working in close coordination with the National Weather Service, city and state agency partners, and local utility companies to ensure a robust and effective response,” said NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol. “Given that multiple warnings and advisories have been issued citywide, including the potential for significant coastal flooding in southern Queens, I urge all New Yorkers to take this storm seriously, stay updated through Notify NYC, and take necessary precautions.”

New York City Emergency Management, in response to the forecasted weather, has activated the city’s Flash Flood Emergency Plan, and coordinated calls with the National Weather Service, partner agencies, as well as utility companies to ensure a unified and coordinated response.

New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) crews have been checking flood-prone locations to ensure the functionality of catch basins and drainage infrastructure. DEP is also prepared to manage stormwater with cleaned and inspected Bluebelts and monitor flooding on arterial highways.

The New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) is prepared to monitor road conditions at its Traffic Management Center and coordinate with sister agencies for flood conditions, while also assisting in clearing catch basins to prevent roadway flooding. All empty tractor-trailers and tandem trailers will be prohibited on MTA bridges due to expected high winds.

The Fire Department of New York (FDNY) maintains 111 water-trained rescue units, equipped for various water rescues, and 143 ladder companies with chainsaws for potential wind and tree events. FDNY’s Special Operations Command is prepared with high-axel vehicles for high water navigation and additional chainsaw-equipped units.

The New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) urges builders, contractors, crane operators, and property owners to secure their sites. Random inspections will be conducted, with immediate enforcement action taken if necessary.

The New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) will be checking and servicing hundreds of catch basins citywide, with equipment ready to assist in tree-related incidents, especially if the Downed Tree Taskforce is activated. There are currently no anticipated delays in trash/recycling collection. Residents may put material out at the curb following their normal schedule.

The New York City Department of Parks and Recreation is on alert to monitor tree conditions, ready to activate the Downed Tree Task Force if necessary.

These efforts across multiple city departments reflect a unified and proactive approach to ensuring safety and minimizing the impact of severe weather conditions.

NYC Emergency Management strongly encourages all New Yorkers to take proactive steps to ensure their own safety and support the city’s resilience:

· Stay informed. Before and during an emergency, the city will send emergency alerts and updates to New Yorkers through various channels, including Notify NYC. Sign up for emergency notifications online or call 311. You can also follow @NotifyNYC on Twitter.

· Allow for extra travel time. New Yorkers are urged to use public transportation whenever possible. Expect delays with little to no notice. If you must drive, drive slowly. Use major streets or highways for travel whenever possible. Turn around, don’t drown. Do not drive into flooded streets or enter flooded subway stations.

· If it is safe to do so, clear debris from catch basins to prevent street flooding. Be sure to wear gloves & watch out for traffic. You can also report a clogged catch basin by calling 311.

· 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 live in a basement apartment, or in a low-lying, flood-prone, or poor drainage area, be prepared to move to higher ground or leave your apartment should conditions worsen.

· New Yorkers should report tree conditions including downed trees and limbs to 311; in cases of true emergency, call 911.

· 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)

Con Edison Update on Midtown Steam Response: Company to Wash Buildings and Streets

NEW YORK – Con Edison is coordinating crews to wash debris from the streets and building facades in the area of this morning’s steam leak at East 52^nd Street and 2^nd Avenue in Manhattan.

The company is working with New York City Emergency Management and other agencies. Con Edison crews will remain at the site around the clock.

The initial results of air monitoring tests in the area were negative for asbestos. The crews will wash the buildings and streets out of an abundance of caution and to protect the public.

Con Edison crews early today shut down a portion of a steam main in response to the leak. The incident resulted in the interruption of service to eight steam customers.

Midtown Steam Response

NEW YORK – Con Edison is responding to a release of steam at East 52nd Street between 1^st and 2^nd Avenues in Manhattan. The company is coordinating with New York City Emergency Management and other agencies.

Con Edison crews shut down a portion of a steam main in response to the release.

Environmental testing for possible asbestos is being conducted in the affected area, which includes East 51^st Street from 2^nd Avenue to 3rd Avenue and East 52^nd and East 53 Streets from 2^nd Avenue to Park Avenue. NYCEM advises residents of the area to shelter in place and other members of the public to stay clear of the affected area for safety reasons.

The incident has resulted in the interruption of service to eight steam customers.

CON EDISON CREWS MOBILIZING FOR STORM Company Reminds the Public to Stay Away from Downed Wires; Company and Mutual Aid Crews Ready to Respond

NEW YORK – Con Edison is mobilizing for the storm that is expected to bring gusty winds and heavy rain to the region starting overnight.

The company urges members of the public to stay safe. Stay away from downed wires. They may be live.

Con Edison has secured more than 600 outside workers to address power outages that may occur as the storm enters the region.

The strong winds can cause trees and branches to fall onto power lines and bring those lines down, causing customers to lose service and creating a safety hazard.

For your safety, Con Edison may guard downed wires until crews make repairs. Company 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.

How to Report an Outage

Safety Tips

Do not go near downed 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 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 should also 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.
Charge your cellphones and other mobile devices while you have power.

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 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.

CON EDISON CUSTOMERS’ SOLAR ENERGY INSTALLATIONS ON PACE FOR ANOTHER RECORD-BREAKING YEAR

Third Quarter Clean Energy Update Data for 2023 Shows

NEW YORK – Con Edison customers are on pace to break last year’s record for solar installations and the company continues to set new records for electric vehicle charge point installations according to its third quarter Clean Energy Update.

The report shows a continuing upward trend in customer-owned renewable energy projects and demonstrates Con Edison’s deep commitment to ushering in a clean energy future equitably and efficiently so every New Yorker can share in the benefits of a more sustainable grid.

“Con Edison is committed to working with its customers and stakeholders to meet New York’s clean energy goals with the industry-leading reliability our customers expect and deserve,” said Raghusimha Sudhakara, Con Edison’s vice president for Distributed Resources Integration. “We’re thrilled to see our customers embracing solar power, battery storage and EV chargers across our service territory.”

Con Edison’s Clean Energy Update is a quarterly snapshot of four important clean energy technologies: solar generation, battery storage, electric vehicles and building electrification adopted by customers in the five boroughs of New York City and Westchester County. The data reflected in this update is collected as part of the company’s work to build infrastructure capabilities, programs and incentives that make it easier for customers to install clean energy technologies in their homes and businesses.

Con Edison customers have more than 554 megawatts (MW) of solar generating capacity on their roofs.

If Con Edison customers were a utility-scale solar generator, they would be the largest producer of solar energy in the state with the capacity to produce of about $70 million worth of electricity in a year.

Queens customers have the most solar installations, with 20,762 projects.

Westchester County customers continue to lead solar generation capacity with 148.7 MW followed closely by Queens’ 144.4 MW. Staten Islanders have installed 111.7 MW of capacity.

This year is on pace to exceed 2022’s record for solar installations. The company expects the market to remain strong over the coming decade as its customers embrace clean energy.

Solar energy production has reached a global tipping point, setting it on a trajectory to “dominate global energy markets,” according to this recent study.

Installing a battery system along with solar panels in a home or business can offer a customer a new level of control over energy consumption.

Con Edison is also exploring technology that would improve the efficiency of solar panels by capturing their thermal energy or waste heat. Using inexpensive piping, these new solar panels capture the warmth of the sun and use that energy to heat and cool water and air and produce electricity. To learn more about Con Edison’s work on improving energy efficiency by recovering waste heat energy, listen to this episode of Current Thought.

Con Edison customers installed 36 MW of storage capacity during the third quarter. They have now completed 556 installations.

Customers in Westchester County completed 500 of the 556 battery storage projects with the capacity to store 13.4 MW. Manhattan has 17 systems installed followed by Brooklyn with 15 completed.

Battery safety continues to be a priority. Con Edison works with New York State and the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) on battery safety awareness. The company urges New Yorkers to follow safety rules for batteries including making sure their lithium-ion batteries have been certified by UL or another safety testing lab, using only the charging cables that the manufacturer recommends and safely disposing of damaged batteries. For additional tips visit the FDNY’s website. The National Fire Protection Association also offers safety advice for lithium-ion batteries.

Con Edison customers and developers in eligible neighborhoods of Brooklyn and Queens can apply for incentives through the Brooklyn and Queens Energy Storage Incentive Program.

Con Edison is working with the New York City Housing Authority on a project that places chargers for e-bikes and e-scooters at NYCHA developments in Queens, Manhattan, and Brooklyn. The charging locations will be designated in accordance with Fire Department of New York guidelines for safety.

Con Edison’s PowerReady program has supported over 4,600 vehicle charge points since it began in 2020. This year alone more than 1,900 points were installed, setting a new annual record.

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

PowerReady aims to support 19,000 charging plugs by 2025, on the road to 400,000 plugs in 2035 – and 1 million by 2050. Con Edison is also committed to electrifying its own fleet of light-duty vehicles by 2035.

The recent adoption of the Green Rides rule by the Taxi & Limousine Commission is expected to drive more EV adoption. An expanded PowerReady program by the NYS Public Service Commission in Q4 will enable Con Edison to support even more charging plugs by 2025 and beyond as EV adoption continues to accelerate. Con Edison is preparing its industry-leading reliable electric grid for this rapid growth in EV load.

Fast charger installations are halfway to their goal of 457 by 2025. Con Edison is working closely with the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) to advance PowerReady and other Con Edison EV programs to help make the transition away from fossil-fuel powered vehicles easier, so more New Yorkers can participate in the clean energy transition.

Con Edison’s curbside charging demonstration project with New York City Department of Transportation and FLO continues to outperform goals. Since the beginning of the project, customers have plugged their EVs into curbside charging stations more than 110,000 times, delivering more than 2,400 MWh of driving energy. That is enough electricity to power 67,000 average American homes for an entire day. This program has more than tripled its usage goals.

Con Edison is working in collaboration with customers, city and state officials, community leaders and environmental groups so every New Yorker can share in the benefits of a more sustainable grid. It is one of the components of the company’s Clean Energy Commitment.

PSC Adopts New Con Edison Steam Rates

Unopposed Joint Proposal Adopted by Commission

New Revenues Will Fund Various Capital Projects, Including Decarbonization Work

NEW YORK — The New York State Public Service Commission (Commission) today adopted a joint proposal to establish a new steam rate plan for Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc. (Con Edison) for three years. The signatories to the joint proposal are Con Edison, trial staff of the Department of Public Service, the City of New York, Consumer Power Advocates, and Natural Resources Defense Council, with limited support. Pursuant to the joint proposal, there would be annual increases in revenues for the company’s steam service. The approved joint proposal results in an increase in steam-delivery revenues of $77.8 million for each rate year, levelized over the three-year period to moderate rate impacts on customers. The joint proposal also includes an earnings-sharing mechanism by which customers will share annual earnings that exceed 9.75 percent.

“The joint proposal meets the conditions for approval under the Commission’s settlement guidelines,” Commission Chair Rory M. Christian said. “The joint proposal approved today will facilitate and advance in an efficient and equitable manner achievement of New York’s clean energy goals and statutory policy objectives as mandated by the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act or Climate Act. There were no public comments in opposition to the joint proposal.”

The 100-mile long Con Edison steam system runs from the very bottom of Manhattan to 96th Street on the west side and 89th Street on the east side. It serves approximately 1,600 commercial customers, including the Empire State Building, the United Nations, Rockefeller Center, and multiple museums and hospitals. It is used primarily for heating and cooling, along with several other functions.

The adopted three-year rate plan is effective as of November 1, 2023 and it runs through October 31, 2026. The joint proposal provides levelized rate increases of $77.8 million in each rate year (14.6 percent increase in the first year, 12.8 percent increase in the second year, and 11.3 percent increase in the third year). The last rate increase for the steam system was in 2014. The revenue increases are lower than those that likely would have resulted from a fully litigated proceeding, but still provide the company with sufficient funding to continue to maintain the steam system in a safe and reliable manner.

The additional revenues provided for in the joint proposal also will contribute to funding for various capital projects, including decarbonization efforts, such as an industrial heat pump project at Con Edison’s East River Station and a hot water loop project that will utilize waste condensate to provide hot water heat to neighboring buildings. The joint proposal also includes other provisions intending to increase the efficiency of the steam system and to assist steam customers with compliance with New York City’s Local Law 97.

Today’s decision may be obtained by going to the Commission Documents section of the Commission’s Web site at www.dps.ny.gov and entering Case Number 22-S-0659 in the input box labeled “Search for Case/Matter Number”. Many libraries offer free Internet access. Commission documents may also be obtained from the Commission’s Files Office, 14th floor, Three Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12223 (518-474-2500). If you have difficulty understanding English, please call us at 1-800-342-3377 for free language assistance services regarding this press release.

CON EDISON PROPOSES LONG-TERM INVESTMENTS TO PROTECT SYSTEM FROM CLIMATE CHANGE Upgrades Would Prevent Outages, Protect Public Safety

NEW YORK – Con Edison today proposed the next generation of investments to enhance system resilience and protect its customers from severe heat waves, storms and floods, as the pace of climate change accelerates.

The company’s Climate Change Resilience Plan proposes equipment upgrades throughout New York City and Westchester County and builds on Con Edison’s efforts to focus on disadvantaged communities, so that all New Yorkers benefit from a clean and just energy transition.

The projects include continuing to strategically place overhead electric lines underground to protect them from storms; raising critical infrastructure; improving the water resiliency of equipment in flood zones; and using technology to improve customer communications during emergencies.

The goal is to prevent outages and other service problems that are inconvenient, disruptive, costly for the economy and, in many instances, a public safety hazard.

“Our climate change research with NYSERDA and Columbia University shows that extreme weather in our region is an increasingly urgent threat,” said Tim Cawley, Con Edison’s chairman and CEO. “We must continue to make investments in our system to serve our customers in higher temperatures and more frequent and severe storm conditions. Con Edison is committed to helping New York meet its clean energy goals while also maintaining our industry-leading service reliability and resiliency.”

The proposal to the New York State Public Service Commission follows Con Edison’s Climate Change Vulnerability Study that found temperatures are rising faster than previous climate science projected.

The study, which was completed in September, cited Hurricane Ida and Tropical Storm Isaias in noting that severe events pose increasingly greater threats to Con Edison’s region in the coming decades.

The Projects

The investments the company proposes in today’s filing include:

Replacing 103 miles of overhead wires and 36 miles of underground wires to minimize outages due to contact with trees or debris.
Replacing 391 underground transformers and network protectors within flood zones with units that work even when submersed in water. This improves the resiliency of the system during flooding events.
Adding switches and splitting some cables on the underground delivery system so that the cables follow two paths, improving performance during extreme heat.
Adding two weather-monitoring stations in Westchester County. The stations provide insights on weather and climate, including real-time and long-term data, to help predict weather events and allow for more advanced preparation.
Construction of “green infrastructure” such as rain gardens, bioswales, permeable pavement, and natural retention ponds to absorb rainwater and reduce flooding on company property. Also, replacing invasive species with native vegetation to reduce runoff and allow for line clearance.
Testing new personal protective equipment that helps workers stay cool in extreme heat. Reducing the effects of heat stress on workers protects the employees and makes them more efficient in responding to outages and other service issues.

Continuing with Post-Sandy Strategy

The projects would build on Con Edison’s ongoing resiliency work and the more than $1.1 billion in storm-fortification investments Con Edison has made since Hurricane Sandy, the most devastating storm in the region’s recorded history.

The investments made since Sandy have prevented more than 1.2 million customer outages, according to the company’s research.

The six worst storms in the company’s history, as measured by the number of customer outages, have all occurred since 2010.

To make the appropriate upgrades Con Edison would invest approximately $903 million between 2025 and 2029. Based on the expected in-service dates for the proposed projects, the company estimates those investments would result in a rate impact to customers of $173 million during the five years.

That could result in a residential bill increase of about $1.12 per month for a customer using 280 kilowatt hours to about $1.70 for a customer using 425 kilowatt hours

CON EDISON WINS 2023 ReliabilityOne® AWARDS FOR OUTSTANDING ELECTRIC SERVICE

Company Wins Recognition for Reliability and Its Use of Technology

A group of construction workers working on a street

Description automatically generatedNEW YORK – Con Edison has again earned coveted recognition from PA Consulting for its reliable electric delivery service.

The company won the 2023 ReliabilityOne® Award for Outstanding Reliability Performance in the Northeast Region Metropolitan Service Area.

ReliabilityOne® Awards go to utilities that excel in delivering the most reliable electric service to their customers. PA Consulting considers the frequency of outages that customers of each utility experience and the time it takes each utility to restore service to customers when outages do occur.

“Con Edison is fulfilling our commitment to maintaining our industry-leading reliable service, providing value to our customers and helping New York State and City achieve their clean energy and climate goals.” said Shakira Wilson, Con Edison’s vice president, Engineering and Planning. “We make robust investments in our infrastructure to support the clean energy transition and meet our customers’ growing need for power, all while maintaining the superb level of service our unique region needs.”

Con Edison also won PA Consulting’s Outstanding Technology and Innovation Award, sponsored by Prsymian Group. That award goes to the utility that demonstrated a strategic and focused effort to develop and use innovative technologies to improve its reliability performance.

PA Consulting said Con Edison embraced the benefits that new technology can provide to outage restoration and management. The company has achieved exceptional results and shown that innovation can solve business problems and improve customer service, according to PA Consulting.

“For the last 23 years, the ReliabilityOne® Awards have highlighted outstanding electric utility providers who resiliently build a more positive future for their customers,” said Derek HasBrouck, PA Consulting’s ReliabilityOne® Program Director. “I am honored to recognize Con Edison as an industry leader for delivering outstanding service reliability and restoration efforts.”

Con Edison has been recognized with awards from PA Consulting each year for more than a decade.

The New York State Public Service Commission issues an annual report on the reliability of utility services.

A commission metric is the number of customer outages divided by the number of customers. Con Edison’s 2022 number was .14, including outages from major storms. At that rate, a typical customer would go seven years without losing power. The outage frequency for the rest of the state was 1.43, or 10 times higher.

Con Edison customers experienced 4.57 interruptions for every 1,000 customers served, compared with 17.81 for customers in the rest of the state.

All utilities operating dense electric delivery networks in North America are eligible for the ReliabilityOne® Award. There are eight metropolitan service regional awards including Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, Plains, Mountains, West, Southeast, and Southwest. The selection of provisional recipients is based primarily on system reliability statistics that measure the frequency and duration of customer outages.

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 reliability results.

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 Twitter. 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. ReliabilityOne® participants on average experienced over 55% fewer sustained outages, and outages were 70% shorter 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 OFFERS CONSUMER-FRIENDLY PROGRAMS TO HELP CUSTOMERS SAVE ON WINTER BILLS; URGES CUSTOMERS TO CONSERVE ENERGY

Company Offers Payment Plans, Budget Billing, Low-Income Discounts; Customers Can Save with Careful Usage, Energy Efficiency Programs

NEW YORK – Con Edison is offering programs to help customers with their energy bills this winter, while also sharing tips for saving money by conserving and using energy wisely.

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

A payment plan allows a customer to pay off arrears over time, rather than all at once. Payment extensions give customers up to 10 extra days to pay their bills.

Customers who receive benefits from certain government assistance programs can qualify for the company’s Energy Affordability Program.

Con Edison offers these programs out of an understanding that high energy costs can be a hardship, particularly for low- and moderate-income customers.

The best way for customers to take control of their bills is to manage their usage of gas and electricity. Customers can follow energy-saving tips and check out the energy efficiency incentives Con Edison offers for upgrades customers make to their homes.

Helping Vulnerable Customers

Con Edison offers special protections and payment programs for seniors, people with disabilities, customers experiencing medical emergencies, or domestic violence.

The Home Energy Assistance Program provides discounts for qualified low-income customers to limit utility costs to 6 percent of average annual income. The discount is based on a statewide formula that is updated annually and adjusted if delivery costs change.

Conserving is Key

The best strategy for Con Edison’s 3.6 million customers is to carefully manage their usage.

Customers can save money by using these tips:

Set thermostats at the lowest comfortable temperature. Each degree lower decreases heating costs.
Make sure heating vents are not blocked by furniture, carpeting or anything else that could obstruct the flow of heat.
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 are widely available and affordable.

Winter Energy Costs

Con Edison projects that gas bills this winter will be about the same as last winter, but that electric bills will rise, mainly due to increases in delivery charges. Electric supply charges – which cover the cost of the commodity – are also up.

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.

The company currently projects that its average residential natural gas heating customer using an average of 163 therms per month will pay $416 a month from November 2023 to March 2024, 1 percent more than the average bill of $413 a year earlier.

Gas delivery costs will be up, according to the projections, due to a rate plan the New York State Public Service Commission approved in July. But those increases will be offset by a decrease in supply charges.

Electric delivery costs are also projected to be up due to the approved rate plan. Electric supply costs are higher due to the rising cost of electric capacity. Power generators receive monthly electric capacity payments from the New York Independent System Operator to ensure that there is enough power available at times when demand is highest. Those costs get passed along to Con Edison when the company pays the NYISO for the electric capacity required to serve customers.

A New York City residential customer using 280 kilowatt hours a month this winter will pay about $117, a 14 percent increase over last winter’s $103, based on current projections.

A Westchester County customer using 425 kilowatt hours a month will have an average bill of $143, an 11 percent increase over last winter’s $129, based on the company’s latest estimates.

For a small commercial customer using 583 kilowatt hours per month, bills are projected to rise $9, or 4 percent, from $223 last winter to $232.

A larger commercial customer using 10,800 kilowatt hours per month with a peak demand of 30 kilowatts will see an increase of $27, or 1 percent, from $2,993 to $3,020.

CON EDISON SAYS REGION IS WARMING QUICKLY AS CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS ACCELERATE Update to 2019 Research Predicts Faster Increase of Extreme Hot Temperatures

NEW YORK – Temperatures in the New York City region are rising quickly due to climate change, meaning Con Edison must accelerate its investments to keep electric service reliable and resilient for customers, according to Con Edison’s 2023 Climate Change Vulnerability Study.

The findings have significant implications for Con Edison’s electric delivery system because heat and humidity drive up customers’ air conditioning needs, placing a strain on the company’s equipment.

By 2030, New York City will experience up to 17 days a year with temperatures of 95 degrees or higher, the study projects, up from four days a year historically. New Yorkers will experience up to 27 such days by 2040 and up to 32 such days by 2050, according to the study.

“This most recent study provides alarming evidence that climate change will affect the lives of New Yorkers sooner and more severely than had previously thought,” said Tim Cawley, the chairman and chief executive of Con Edison. “That’s why Con Edison is thinking more boldly about ways to strengthen the reliability of our electric delivery system. We are ushering in new sources of renewable energy and making sure that every New Yorker can share in the benefits of a more sustainable grid.”

“This study shows Con Edison’s commitment to staying abreast of the latest climate science and to relying on leading experts,” said Michael Gerrard, professor at Columbia University Law School and director of the Sabin Center for Climate Change Law. “The company is taking a leading role among energy companies in making investments to ensure continued reliable service in the face of escalating climate change.”

Con Edison’s latest study uses climate change projections developed by Columbia University and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority. The study, which Con Edison produced with support from ICF International, updates the projections in the company’s first-of-its-kind 2019 study.

Con Edison filed the study with the New York State Public Service Commission today. The company later this year will file a report on the measures it will have to take to protect its equipment and customers in New York City and Westchester County from the rising temperatures and other climate change impacts.

While the 2019 study predicted a dramatic increase in the number of hot days, the new study accelerates the predicted timetable by a decade.

The first study forecast that by 2030 there would be 11 days a year when the temperature in Central Park exceeds 95 degrees, increasing to 18 days by 2040 and 23 days a decade later.

Climate change, which the new study calls “an existential and multi-faceted threat around the world,” will affect Con Edison customers and equipment in other ways, the company said.

The risk of flooding, which can damage underground electric delivery equipment, will increase, as sea levels rise 16 inches by 2050 and New York experiences five days a year with precipitation exceeding 2 inches. The historical norm is three days per year.
The annual maximum wind speed in New York City could reach 60 miles per hour in 10 to 15 years, compared to about 50 miles per hour on a historical basis. Strong winds can knock trees and branches onto overhead delivery equipment, causing customers to lose power.
The risk of ice forming on overhead power lines and trees will increase. That impact can cause outages.
Hurricanes could be more intense and more likely to track toward the Northeast.

In addition, Nor’easters and cold snaps could be less frequent, but more intense when they do occur. Torrential downpours could be more frequent and intense.

Climate change is likely to drive stronger and more frequent storms in the New York City region, bringing heavier rainfall and coastal storm surge. Hurricane Ida in 2021 brought more than seven inches of rainfall in Central Park and resulted in flooding across the city.

Hurricane Sandy, the worst storm in New York City’s recorded history, caused floodwaters to overrun underground electric delivery equipment, knocking out power on the East Side of Manhattan from 40^th Street south and on the West Side from 30^th Street south.

But the most striking change in the latest Con Edison study is in the predictions about heat.

The urban heat island effect adds to the challenge of extreme heat in New York City. The rooftops and pavement that characterize city landscapes retain heat, meaning higher temperatures, particularly at night.

The higher night-time temperatures result in air conditioners working harder to cool homes and businesses. That means the underground delivery equipment does not cool off as much overnight during heat waves.

Higher temperatures can decrease the capacity of cable, substation transformers and other equipment, meaning Con Edison has to invest to replace that lost capacity. The heat can also cause the demand for power to exceed the system’s capacity.

Con Edison recognizes that disadvantaged communities have fewer alternatives during outages, meaning they suffer greater effects from flooding and heat. Con Edison will consider how climate change affects these areas and incorporate that consideration into its reliability and resiliency investment plans.

The company has been fortifying its vast electric delivery system for years, but climate change is prompting the company to accelerate the planning and execution of upgrades.

The company invested $1 billion in its energy systems over four years following Sandy. After two March 2018 storms caused severe damage, the company invested another $100 million in Westchester County. The company’s analysis shows the investments since Sandy have prevented more than a million customer outages.

While investing to fortify its infrastructure, the company is leading the region’s transition to a clean energy future. Con Edison works with customers to help them complete rooftop solar projects, adopt heat pumps and reduce their usage through efficiency.

The company makes clear in its Clean Energy Commitment that it supports the environmental goals of New York City and State and is building a grid to carry 100 percent clean energy by 2040.

Just in 2023, Con Edison has announced the completion of an important transmission project in Queens, enabling the retirement of an inefficient fossil fuel plant, and the start of construction of a Clean Energy Hub in Brooklyn. Both these projects will carry offshore wind power that the state is adding to its portfolio.

CON EDISON BREAKS GROUND ON BROOKLYN CLEAN ENERGY HUB Substation Will Offer Connections for Offshore Wind; Construction Will Create More than 500 Union Jobs

NEW YORK – A key piece to the region’s clean energy future is rising in Brooklyn’s Vinegar Hill neighborhood on the banks of the East River.

Con Edison is building the Brooklyn Clean Energy Hub, a transmission substation that will strengthen New York’s power grid, help meet the region’s growing demand for electricity, and serve as a gateway for offshore wind power.

Utilizing renewable energy sources, the hub will serve as a critical plug-in point for future offshore wind infrastructure. The hub will be able to accommodate up to 1,500 megawatts or enough electricity to power 750,000 homes.

Construction is expected to create more than 500 skilled union jobs.

“The Brooklyn Clean Energy Hub represents a major milestone in the clean energy transition and will strengthen our grid’s reliability,” said Tim Cawley, Con Edison’s chairman and chief executive. “This project will offer a critical plug-in point to connect with offshore wind, while creating good jobs, supporting economic growth, and advancing New York’s climate goals.”

Cawley was joined by elected officials, labor, community, and climate advocacy leaders who noted the importance of Con Edison’s partnership in New York’s clean energy future.

“This project will demonstrate the economic power of the clean energy transition and the amazing skill of our unionized workers,” said James Shillitto, the president of Local 1-2 of the Utility Workers Union of America. “The working relationship Local 1-2 has with Con Edison is going to make it possible for clean, renewable wind power to reach homes and businesses in New York City, displacing electricity generated by fossil fuels. Together we are creating jobs, economic growth, and a clean energy future.”

“I applaud Con Edison for its commitment to a clean energy future with the development of the Brooklyn Clean Energy Hub,” said state Senator Kevin Parker. “This substation not only offers connections for offshore wind energy, but also represents a significant step toward achieving New York’s electric future. By investing in clean and renewable energy sources, we are not only protecting our environment but also creating much-needed union jobs and supporting economic growth in our communities.”

“As we emerge from a summer of extreme weather events and dangerous heat waves, New York’s transition to a clean energy future is more important than ever,” said state Assemblymember Brian A. Cunningham. “The Brooklyn Clean Energy Hub is a vital step forward in our clean energy journey and will spur innovation and economic growth for years to come. I commend Con Edison for its work on this facility and its commitment to a sustainable future for New Yorkers.”

“The Brooklyn Clean Energy Hub is a crucial step toward ensuring that Brooklyn’s homes are powered by cleaner, greener energy,” Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso said. “I applaud Con Edison, one of Brooklyn’s primary energy distributors, for initiating this clean energy plan in the borough and committing to 100 percent clean energy by 2040. The future is fossil fuel free. This is a great first step, and we must work with urgency to transition away from fossil fuels as quickly as possible, ensuring an environmentally sustainable future for Brooklyn.”

“There’s never been a more critical time to transition away from fossil fuels and toward clean energy resources to power our communities,” said City Council member Lincoln Restler. “I look forward to working with Con Edison and local stakeholders to open the hub by 2028 to help meet our state’s ambitious climate and clean energy goals.”

“The Brooklyn Clean Energy Hub is a promising multi-value solution for enhancing the electric grid that will help ensure that there are enough points of interconnection to meet New York’s ambitious offshore wind goals while also accommodating additional load from expected electrification of the building and vehicle sectors and providing important resiliency benefits to communities in Brooklyn and Queens,” said Christopher Casey, senior attorney at NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council).

“The groundbreaking of the new Brooklyn Clean Energy Hub shows that we can transform the fossils of dirty industry into new clean energy projects,” said Shay O’Reilly, senior organizing representative for the Sierra Club. “This is happening right here in Brooklyn, in real time, and we’re excited about the tremendous opportunity – especially for offshore wind – that New York City has to expand renewable energy, create clean energy jobs, and provide cleaner air for New Yorkers.”

“It’s all hands on deck when it comes to meeting New York’s ambitious climate targets, and the local distribution company plays a key role in cost-effectively integrating clean energy sources like offshore wind into the grid,” said New York Offshore Wind Alliance Director Fred Zalcman. “We applaud Con Edison’s creativity in helping overcome the physical and technical challenges of bringing offshore wind generation to New York City’s electric consumers through the Brooklyn Clean Energy Hub.”

Barges will deliver some components and construction materials to the site, minimizing traffic on local streets. Con Edison consulted with community leaders on plans for the Brooklyn Clean Energy Hub building designs.

“Downtown Brooklyn Partnership enthusiastically welcomes the Brooklyn Clean Energy Hub to the neighborhood,” said Regina Myer, the president of the Brooklyn Downtown Partnership. “As areas like Downtown Brooklyn grow and implement new technologies, we need sustainable infrastructure to meet our energy and public health needs, while also creating hundreds of new jobs for our ever-expanding community. We thank Con Edison for championing the state’s ambitious environmental goals here in Brooklyn and for spearheading solutions for a greener, cleaner city.”

“The Brooklyn Chamber Commerce has long supported innovation and Con Edison’s new Brooklyn Clean Energy Hub does that, while also improving the lives across the borough,” said Randy Peers, president and chief executive of the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce. “The new offshore wind project will also benefit local businesses and bring a sense of environmental justice to the community, which will soon be able to have access to clean energy. Thank you, Con Edison, for including the Brooklyn Chamber in today’s event and your dedication to renewable energy.”

Preparing for Growing Energy Needs

As a critical partner in meeting New York’s goal of a zero-emission energy grid by 2040, Con Edison is thinking more boldly about ways to strengthen and expand our energy system to accommodate new sources of renewable energy and increased demand.

The transition to electric vehicles and heat pumps is already driving up demand for power in New York City and Con Edison has identified neighborhoods where demand will exceed the existing infrastructure’s capacity by 2028. The Brooklyn Clean Energy Hub will help address those future reliability needs.

Connecting to Offshore Wind

Offshore wind is key to meeting New York’s renewable energy targets. The state’s plan to build 9,000 megawatts of offshore wind capacity by 2035 requires onshore injection points for the power. But the availability of potential interconnection points in New York City and Long Island is limited by space and grid constraints.

To meet that challenge, the project will have the potential to serve as an interconnection point for 1,500 megawatts of offshore wind power, offering developers the opportunity to plug future projects into New York City’s grid.

Located at the site of the former fossil fuel-fired Hudson Avenue Generating Station, the hub represents Con Edison’s commitment to supporting environmental justice communities. To help hold down costs to customers, the project will be built on land that Con Edison already owns.

Con Edison has served New York for 200 years and has a record of designing, building and operating complex, technologically advanced energy projects.

Building a Resilient and Reliable Grid Across New York

The Brooklyn Clean Energy Hub will distribute power via underground transmission lines to the planned Gateway Park Area Substation in Canarsie, Brooklyn, and other substations, and support the expansion of JFK Airport and the region’s economic growth.

The hub will also allow for increased energy transfers across Con Edison’s high-voltage transmission system and will be built to withstand extreme weather and the impacts of climate change.

CON EDISON, NYS PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION TO ANNOUNCE MAJOR CLEAN ENERGY PROJECT

The top executives at Con Edison and the New York State Public Service Commission on Tuesday will announce an $810 million investment in the region’s transition to clean energy.

The press is invited to the event at the site of Con Edison’s Brooklyn Clean Energy Hub, a substation that will include connections for offshore wind power and support Con Edison’s reliable service. The project will create more than 500 skilled labor jobs at peak construction.

WHAT: Tim Cawley, the chairman and CEO of Con Edison, and Rory Christian, the chairman and CEO of the New York State Public Commission, will welcome the press, elected officials and other guests.

WHERE: 11 Hudson Ave. in Brooklyn’s Vinegar Hill neighborhood.

WHEN: Tuesday Sept. 12. The press should arrive by 10 a.m. Please park on the street and show identification at the security booth.

INTERVIEWS: Cawley, Christian and other guests will be available for one-on-one interviews following the speaking program.

HONORED GUESTS: Elected officials in attendance will include: Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso; State Senator Kevin Parker; State Senator Andrew Gounardes; Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon; Assemblymember Brian Cunningham; City Council Member Lincoln Restler.

Business, labor, energy and community leaders will also be in attendance.

Please call 212-460-4111 if you have questions in advance of the event.

CON EDISON MOBILIZES FOR LATE-SUMMER HEAT Company Urges Customers to Use Energy Wisely, Save Money on Their Bills

NEW YORK – Con Edison crews are prepared to respond to any service problems that arise due to the unusual September heat hitting the area this week.

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 cause strain on the system and lead to scattered outages. The coming days could also bring thunderstorms, which can affect the overhead delivery system.

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.

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.

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.

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 under which they agree to conserve at times when the demand for power is high.

Cooling Center Availability

If city and state officials activate cooling centers, find the latest information on locations and hours of availability at the following sites: New York City, New York State, and visit the Westchester County website for more information.

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

CON EDISON URGES LOW-INCOME CUSTOMERS TO ENROLL IN THE ENERGY AFFORDABILITY PROGRAM Eligible Customers Can Receive a Credit of Up to $158 on Monthly Energy Bills

NEW YORK – Con Edison asks customers receiving qualifying government assistance benefits to make sure they are enrolled in the Energy Affordability Program (EAP). This program can provide a discount of up to $158 on monthly energy bills. Customers can visit conEd.com/EAP or scan this QR code for more information.

Con Edison continues to reach out to customers via emails, newsletters, bill messaging, social media posts, and print, radio and digital advertising to encourage enrollment.

“Con Edison’s Clean Energy Commitment prioritizes energy affordability, especially for those customers most vulnerable to rising costs,” said Michele O’Connell, senior vice president of Customer Operations for Con Edison. “The EAP is just one of the many ways we can help New Yorkers keep energy affordable. We encourage any customer struggling to pay their energy bill to reach out to us. There is help.”

The EAP provides discounts for qualified low-income customers to limit utility costs to 6 percent of average annual income. The discount is based on a statewide formula that is updated annually and adjusted if delivery costs change.

This program is just one of the steps that Con Edison is taking to ensure that the move away from fossil fuels to a clean energy future does not disproportionately burden low-income customers.

Enrollment For EAP Is Easier Than Ever

Customers can enroll online. Those receiving an eligible government benefit can self-certify that they qualify for this program. Con Edison sends each enrolled customer a letter with details on the monthly discount.

Keeping Energy Affordable for Vulnerable Customers

Con Edison helps customers identify ways to keep energy affordable. By visiting coned.com/billhelp customers can learn about financial assistance, the Home Energy Assistance Program, Energy Share, free energy efficiency kits and more.

The company also offers special protections and payment programs for seniors, people with disabilities, customers experiencing medical emergencies, or domestic violence.

Providing Convenient, Flexible Payment Options

Con Edison offers a wide array of Payment Plans. Customers can find the terms that are right for them by logging into My Account to see options including:

Level Payment Plans help customers avoid seasonal price spikes by spreading energy payments out evenly across the year.

Payment Extensions give customers up to 10 days of extra time to pay their bill.

Flexible Payment Plans allow customers who have fallen behind on their bills some of the most flexible payment terms available. Customers can make a down payment as low as 33 percent of their balance and some customers meeting certain income requirements may qualify for a $0 down payment. Customers having trouble meeting the terms of a current payment agreement can renegotiate it.

Last year, the New York State Electric and Gas Bill Relief Program provided more than 341,000 residential and 30,000 small business Con Edison customers with one-time bill credits automatically applied toward past-due balances for service through May 1, 2022. The total benefit to customers was more than $621 million in relief.

CON EDISON CUSTOMERS EMBRACE SOLAR ENERGY, EV CHARGERS, MOVING NEW YORK AWAY FROM FOSSIL FUELS

NEW YORK – Con Edison customers are electrifying their vehicles, embracing solar energy, and installing clean heating systems in their homes, helping to support New York’s transition away from fossil fuels.

According to Con Edison’s Clean Energy Update, the company’s customers now own more than 533 megawatts of solar capacity spread across 58,000 individual solar systems.

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Last year was a record year for solar additions in New York City and Westchester County, and Con Edison continues to transform its electric grid into a flexible, dynamic system that supports customer-owned clean energy resources such as electric vehicles and heat pumps.

Con Edison recently filed its 2023 Distributed System Implementation Plan with the New York Public Service Commission, providing detailed roadmaps for integrating more local clean energy resources while advancing New York’s climate goals.

“The clean energy transition is critical for New York, and it will take a diverse range of clean energy resources operating in harmony to reach our shared climate goals,” said Raghusimha Sudhakara, Con Edison’s vice president for Distributed Resources Integration. “We’re enhancing our smart grid to accommodate more customer-owned resources, which can add demand flexibility to the system. By helping New Yorkers electrify their vehicles and embrace solar technology, we’re doing our part to usher in an equitable clean energy future that benefits us all.”

Paving the Way for Local Clean Energy Resources

Con Edison’s Distributed System Implementation Plan highlights actions the company has taken over the past two years and those planned for the next five years to further support distributed energy resources and integrate them into the company’s planning and operations.

Con Edison is building infrastructure and adding capabilities that make it easier for customers to install clean energy technologies in homes and businesses. Embedded at the neighborhood level, these distributed energy resources will play a critical role in New York’s clean energy transition, complementing larger renewable generators.

Con Edison has expanded and enhanced the distribution-system data it provides to clean energy developers, helping them pinpoint areas of opportunity for new projects. The company has also streamlined the process for interconnecting new resources to the grid, helping to reduce project timelines and cost.

EV Charger Market Revs Up

Electric vehicle chargers are expanding rapidly, thanks to support from Con Edison’s PowerReady program, which offers financial incentives for new EV charge points.

PowerReady has seen a rapid uptake since its 2020 start, having supported more than 4,000 charge points, including 1,400 in this year alone. Every EV that replaces a gas-powered vehicle on the road means cleaner air for local communities and less carbon pollution fueling climate change.

Supporting Customer-Owned Projects

Installing a solar or battery system in a home or business can offer customers a new level of control over how they obtain and use energy. The ongoing expansion of solar power will help meet rising demand from electric vehicles and heat pumps as New York moves away from fossil fuels.

In the future, such customer-owned projects will be able to participate in the state’s wholesale energy market, allowing their owners to earn compensation for the grid services they provide. This expansion of market opportunities will act as a further catalyst for growth for distributed energy resources.

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

State of the State address

In her 2024 State of the State address, Governor Kathy Hochul outlined a bold agenda with initiatives that align with the priorities put forth in our strategic policy statement to build a better and stronger Bronx.

From healthcare to housing discrimination, employment for historically marginalized New Yorkers, public safety, swimming access, and so much more that will help eliminate barriers that have often affected our most at-risk residents.

Some Highlights:

The first-in-the-nation statewide paid prenatal leave and expanding access to doula services.

Incentives for the construction of affordable housing and increased protections for low-income New Yorkers with Section 8 vouchers.

Flood resiliency plans for our homeowners as the prevalence of coastal storms increases.

Investments in gender-affirming care.

Improving health services for our veterans.

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.

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.”

STANDING WITH LOCAL UKRAIN IANS—FROM NYC & LI—WHO KNOW WHAT’S AT STAKE, SCHUMER SHARES DETAILS OF RECENT TRIP TO UKRAINE; DEMANDS SPEAKER JOHNSON PUT BILL ON FLOOR, WHERE IT “CAN PASS”; OUTLINES HOW BILL IS DIFFERENCE FROM WINNING OR LOSING WAR— WITH GREAT CONSEQUENCES TO U.S. Marking Two Years Since Russia Invaded Ukraine, Schumer Says We Are At A Pivotal Moment In History Where America Must Step Up Just Back To New York, Senator Details Exactly What He Saw In Ukraine; If Status Quo Persists, Ukraine Will Lose Schumer: Speaker Johnson Is Undermining America’s Security By Choosing Blind Obeisance To Trump Instead Of Democracy — He Should Go To Ukraine

Just back from Ukraine, where he led an unannounced delegation, U.S. Senator Charles shared NEW details about his trip with local Ukrainians from NYC & LI as he made a public push on Speaker Johnson to visit Ukraine for himself and stop stalling a critical aid package needed to ensure U.S. security. Schumer demanded Speaker Johnson put the bill he already passed with wide bipartisan support in the Senate on the floor of the House, where he says it can pass. Schumer also outlined the difference from winning and losing, as he says the latter would come with great consequence to the U.S..

“My trip to Ukraine marked the first time in more than a year that any of the four Congressional leaders have come to Ukraine. I cannot emphasize enough how important it was for me to go, to see with my own eyes what the brave people of Ukraine have endured for two long years, to understand, as only those who are on the ground can understand, the awful and history-defining stakes of this conflict,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “This trip marked a pivotal moment in world history. As we met on the eve of the second anniversary of Putin’s brazen invasion, the future of Ukraine, the resolve of American strength, and even the durability and potency of western civilization, all hang in the balance. We sent an urgent message, to our Republican House colleagues and to the American people back home: the brave people of Ukraine desperately need our help.”

“America must step up, for Ukraine’s sake and for our own sake, because if we turn our backs now, I fear Ukraine will succumb to the dictator Putin. And that would make the world a more welcoming place to the dark forces of autocracy. We dare not abandon our Ukrainian friends in their hour of need. To do so would betray the fundamental values that America stands for: democracy, the rule of law, respect for borders, self-governance, and freedom from authoritarianism,” Schumer said.

“For over seventy years, since the end of the Second World War, America has dedicated itself to protecting, cultivating and guarding democracy; to opposing totalitarianism, Communism and abject authoritarianism and to standing up for the best values of Western Civilization – freedom, respect for the individual, open and fair markets, human rights and robust civil society. Our people have paid dearly for it. Our soldiers have died for it in unmarked graves around the world. And because of their sacrifices we’ve made the world a safer place for democracy.Today, the values of democracy, of the sovereignty of nations, of western civilization, are all on the line once again in this awful war—will America answer the call to help?

Or will we let it all slip away, because a self-interested, petulant former president, known for his appalling and fawning and weak admiration of autocrats, is pushing House Republicans to let Ukraine fall?

That is what history will ask of this moment. That is the question facing the United States Congress right now,” Schumer said.

Schumer says that if the status quo persists, Ukraine will lose.

“On the trip, we had a powerful, enlightening, and sobering meeting with President Zelensky, and it was clear that if we leave things at status quo right now, Ukraine will lose the war, plain and simple. Now, I want to be clear: Ukraine will lose NOT because its soldiers didn’t fight hard enough, or because they weren’t brave enough or lacked the will to keep going…

…NO, Ukraine will lose because a minority of members in the United States House of Representatives did NOTHING to help our friend and ally, Ukraine, in their hour of need. They will lose because Speaker Johnson and the House Republican refused to pass an aid package for more ammo, supplies, air defenses, and basic tools needed to win on the battle field. They will lose because of the inaction of those members of the House. The thought sickens me,” Schumer said.

Schumer also urged Speaker Johnson to go to Ukraine.

“I urge Speaker Johnson to go to Ukraine and see for himself just how vital this aid is and how global democracy hangs in the balance,” Schumer said.

“This is not about party. This is about democracy. This is about American leadership. Remember: the Ukraine aid package that passed the Senate had broad bipartisan support. In generations past, it would have been unthinkable—it would have been outright sacrilege—to hear a member of the GOP show weakness to someone like Putin. From Eisenhower to Nixon to Reagan, Republicans of generations past prided themselves as staunch defenders of democracy, as opponents of expansionist autocrats, and as guardians of sovereign borders and free and fair markets across Europe and Asia and the world.

Today, it is alarming to see so many Republicans obey the dishonest, selfish, and vindictive whims of just ONE man, even at the cost of abandoning a fellow democracy asking for America’s help.

Will Speaker Johnson accept his own responsibilities of being a leader, and push Ukrainian aid through Congress?

Will House Republicans accept that defending the American way of life, and America’s place in the world requires making tough choices? That it means doing the right thing even if it upsets someone like the former President who would love to see Putin win?

That is what this moment is about. And the stakes of this aid package could not be higher…,” Schumer said.

DEATH OF PUTIN FOE—NAVALNY—RINGS URGENT ALARM BELL THAT DEMANDS HOUSE PASS BIPARTISAN NATIONAL SECURITY BILL WITH DIRE HELP FOR UKRAINE INCLUDED; BILL SITS AT FEET OF SPEAKER JOHNSON WHILE PUTIN WAITS TO SEE WHAT THE U.S. WILL DO, IF ANYTHING

Death Of Putin’s Political Foe Should Be The URGENT Alarm Bell Republicans Heed; Bipartisan Bill Has Enormous Stakes & Protects Western Democracy

Bipartisan National Security Bill Is Just Sitting At Feet Of Speaker Johnson While Putin’s Nefarious Plans Advance Without Delay

Schumer: Some Of America’s Biggest National Security Challenges Depend On House Passing The Senate’s Bipartisan National Security Package ASAP

On the heels of the death of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s most outspoken critic Alexei Navalny, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer said an urgent alarm bell now rings that House Speaker Johnson and Republicans must heed as it relates to the bipartisan National Security Supplemental Bill he led to wide bipartisan passage last week. Schumer said that Navalny’s death now makes it even more urgent for House Speaker Johnson to pass the National Security Supplemental. Schumer urged new action as it relates to national security interests and discussed just what exactly is at stake. He explained that this bipartisan bill sits at the feet of Johnson, and Putin is watching. The Senator said that some of America’s biggest national security challenges depend on the House passing the Senate’s bipartisan security package ASAP.

“Last week, the Senate overwhelmingly passed the national security supplemental, and I urged the House and Speaker Johnson to act—but now—with the death of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s political foe, Alexei Navalny, an urgent alarm bell now rings,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “Navalny’s tragic death now makes it even more urgent for House Speaker Johnson to pass the National Security Supplemental. This bipartisan bill currently sits at the feet of Speaker Johnson, and Putin is watching. We need to approve the investments that ensure our nation’s security, ensure the security of our partners, and prevent our adversaries from gaining an edge over us.”

“The death of Russia’s brave opposition leader Navalny shows there are enormously high stakes with the supplemental package: our security, our values, our commitment to democracy. It is a down payment for the survival of Western democracy and the survival of American values,” Schumer added. “The entire world is going to remember what the U.S. did here. Nothing—nothing—would make Putin happier right now than to see Congress waver in its support for Ukraine. Nothing would help him more on the battlefield.”

Schumer explained that the war in Ukraine is not some isolated regional struggle. He detailed how its effects will reverberate around the world. The Chinese Communist Party, the Iranian Regime, and all of our adversaries will celebrate if America fails to defend a democracy and ally in need, Schumer noted. Schumer said that if America fails one of our friends, then others will assume we will fail them too. And they will act accordingly.

Schumer said Johnson’s failure to act would send an ominous message to NATO, and our partners whose troops fought with us and bled with us and died with us after 9/11, even though America was the one under attack. Schumer also said that inaction would send an equally troubling message to Taiwan, the Philippines, and other people under threat around the world.

“The message – if we fail – would be that America cannot be trusted. We as a body, as a Congress, as a country cannot afford to send that message,” Schumer said.

“In generations past, Democrats and Republicans would have bent heaven and Earth to stand up to Russian autocrats. We would have balked at the mere thought of showing weakness to thugs who attack our friends and villains who seek America’s demise. We find ourselves yet again in a moment of history when democracy is under siege and the death of Putin’s only real opposition encapsulates exactly what is at stake and the urgency required to prevail,” Schumer said.

Schumer said he led the national security supplemental passage with military aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan with solid bipartisan support. The bill was the culmination of months of bipartisan negotiations and it passed by a vote of 70-29. About $60 billion in the bill would go to supporting Ukraine, with nearly $14 billion to rearm its military through the purchase of weapons and munitions and another nearly $15 billion for training and critical intelligence sharing.

SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND, TORRES DRIVE MASSIVE, $150 MILLION FED GRANT TO CROSS-BRONX EXPRESSWAY PROJECT TO JUMPSTART ‘COMMUNITY CONNECTOR ROADWAY’; NEW, SAFER BUS LANES, PATHWAYS FOR BIKES & PEDESTRIANS WILL TRANSFORM THE ENTIRE NEIGHBORHOOD & HELP CONNECT THE BOROUGH; SENATORS & CONGRESSMAN MADE PROJECT A FED PRIORITY

Schumer, Gillibrand, Torres: We Got The Feds To Hit The Gas And Drive $150 Million To The Bronx For This Game-Changing Community Connector Roadway Redevelopment

Today, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and U.S. Representative Ritchie Torres announced $150 million in federal funding for the Cross-Bronx Expressway, Community Connector Road. The Community Connector Roadway will include dedicated bus lanes as well as pathways for bicyclists and pedestrians. The new roadway will improve transportation connections for the surrounding communities. The Cross-Bronx Expressway Community Connector Road is critical to New York State Department of Transportation’s rehabilitation and replacement of five Cross-Bronx Expressway bridges and will serve as a temporary detour that allows that construction without needing to close a lane in each direction for six years. Senator Schumer was instrumental in advocating directly for this funding, and Rep. Torres played a pivotal role in fighting for his constituents in the Bronx.

Schumer, Gillibrand and Torres said the funds are part of the federal MEGA grant program they helped create when they passed President Biden’s bipartisan infrastructure law in the Senate and House.

“When you look at the Cross Bronx Expressway, you see the massive lanes, the cars, the pollution and the disconnect,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “That’s why, under the Biden Administration, we finally had the chance to right some of the infrastructure wrongs of the past, both in terms of pollution and traffic flow in the Bronx. Well, we not only took the chance, we made the most of it to the tune of $150,000,000. Today’s MEGA grant win will help establish dedicated bus lanes, as well as pathways for bicyclists and pedestrians. These are present day infrastructure characteristics the Bronx not only needs, but deserves. I was proud to partner with Congressman Torres on this effort and look forward to breaking ground soon.”

“The Cross-Bronx Expressway has cut through working-class neighborhoods, isolated communities, closed local businesses, and increased traffic levels in marginalized and low socioeconomic communities. As a result, Bronx residents have been exposed to noise, pollution, and poor health outcomes,” said U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. “This incredible $150 million investment will help transform and connect the Bronx to the rest of New York, bring economic prosperity to the borough, and undo injustices caused by decades of disinvestment.”

“For years, Leader Schumer and I have been advocating to make the Cross Bronx Expressway a priority of the federal government,” said Congressman Ritchie Torres. “We have secured a 150 million dollar grant that represents a down payment toward the transformation of the Cross Bronx Expressway. The infrastructure of the Bronx needs and deserves nothing less than its fair share of federal funding. Under our leadership, the Bronx will be left behind no longer.”

As cited in the Guardian, devised by Moses and built between 1948 and 1972, the expressway produces noise and air pollution that puts roughly 250,000 people living in the South Bronx at the highest risk for asthma in the country.

The Cross Bronx Expressway (CBE) Multimodal Community Connector Roadway is a critical component of NYSDOT’s Rehabilitation/Replacement of Five Cross Bronx Expressway (I-95) Bridges between Boston Road and Rosedale Avenue, Bronx County project, which will rehabilitate/replace five deteriorating bridges and approach roadways on the Cross Bronx Expressway (CBE) and design and construct a new ramp. When completed, it will feature dedicated bus lanes and pathways for bicyclists and pedestrians that will improve transportation connections for residents of surrounding neighborhoods. But, prior to that, the Multimodal Community Connector Roadway will serve a crucial role as a temporary diversion/detour that facilitates construction on the five bridges by preventing the need to close one lane on the CBE in both directions for six years. This allows construction on the five bridges to be completed in four years instead of six.

The new roadway, which will include dedicated bus lanes and bicycle/pedestrian paths, will improve multimodal connections between neighborhoods on both sides of the Bronx River. Furthermore, it will provide a direct connection to Starlight Park, a multi-faceted recreational amenity, and the Bronx River Greenway.

As the CBE passes over many local streets and railroad tracks in the Bronx section of New York City, much of its structure is comprised of bridges and viaducts. Five bridges are the subject of the NYSDOT’s Rehabilitation/Replacement of Five Cross Bronx Expressway (I-95) Bridges between Boston Road and Rosedale Avenue, Bronx County (PIN X727.07) project. The overall project includes the design and construction of a new ramp that connects the southbound Bronx River Parkway to the westbound CBE and a new, Multimodal Community Connector Roadway (MCCR) that links Boston Road to the west and Rosedale Avenue to the east.

This project is currently in the preliminary engineering phase. A Public Involvement Plan and an environmental justice-focused Public Engagement Plan were prepared for this project and approved by FHWA. NYSDOT will meet with environmental justice community representatives, Bronx Community Boards, and a robust public information meeting will be held in spring/summer 2024. Total project costs stands at roughly $258,000,000.

SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE OVER $8 MILLION TO SUPPORT THE ARTS, MUSIC, AND BOOST EDUCATIONAL & CULTURAL PROGRAMMING ACROSS NEW YORK THROUGH THE NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS

NEA Grants Help Support Artists, Musicians, As Well As Research And Learning In History, Literature, Arts, & Other Areas Of The Humanities

Schumer, Gillibrand: Investing In The Arts Is How We Paint A More Vibrant Picture For New York’s Future!

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $8,018,255 for nearly 300 grants distributed by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) to organizations across New York State. The senators said this funding will allow beloved cultural organizations and nonprofits to support artists, musicians, exhibitions, educational programing and public engagement and outreach to help grow these vital industries in communities across New York City and Long Island.

“Art, music, and the humanities, along with community organizations, cultural groups, and non-profits are the lifeblood of New York communities big and small. From the Bronx Children’s Museum to the Bronx Council on the Arts, an investment in the arts is an investment in New York’s future, as both a tourist destination and a vibrant place to live,” said Senator Schumer. “This $8+ million federal investment will help paint a brighter picture for New York’s future, all while supporting jobs, education, and breathing new life into our communities. I am proud to deliver this critical federal funding to support hundreds of organizations that will keep the arts growing in New York for years to come.”

“The arts define who we are as a nation and are pivotal in the advancement of our education and economy,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This $8 million in federal funding is a major investment in local organizations to advance art, music, and culture in our communities. I am proud to deliver this funding and will continue to fight to bring federal dollars home to New York.”

Bronx-based recipients of the NEA grants are listed below. A full list of grant recipients can be found here:

Bronx Children’s Museum: $30,000

Project: To support public programming featuring guest artists.

Bronx Council on the Arts, Inc. (on behalf of Longwood Art Gallery): $30,000

Project: To support a series of exhibitions at Longwood Art Gallery, and associated public programs.

BronxArtSpace, Inc.: $10,000

Project: To support community-oriented art exhibitions.

DreamYard Project, Inc.: $30,000

Project: To support poetry residencies for high school students.

Ghetto Film School, Inc.: $30,000

Project: To support a free filmmaking fellowship program for high school students.

Women of Color on Broadway: $10,000

Project: To support performances honoring Juneteenth and Latin Heritage Month.

AMID FED ACTION ON E-CIGS, A QUIET & DANGEROUS ALTERNATIVE HAS EMERGED CALLED "ZYN"; SENATOR LAUNCHES NEW WARNING TO PARENTS BECAUSE THESE NICOTINE POUCHES SEEM TO TARGET TEENS ON SOCIAL MEDIA; KIDS KNOW WHAT IT IS—PARENTS DON’T; AMOUNT OF NICOTINE IS HIGHLY ADDICTIVE & RISKS HEALTH; URGES FTC & FDA TO INVESTIGATE "ZYN" FOR MARKETING & HEALTH CONCERNS RELATED TO KIDS

A Nicotine Vape Alternative, That Is Perhaps Even More Clandestine, Has Emerged And It’s Called ‘ZYN’; Senator Makes New Warning To Parents As Use And Popularity Of Pouches Of Nicotine That Inconspicuously Fit In The Cheek Grow

Schumer Wants FTC To Step In By Investigating ‘ZYN’s’ Marketing & FDA To Assess Health Impact On Kids; Flavors Include “Chill,” Cinnamon, Citrus & More

Schumer: ‘ZYN’ Nicotine Pouches Could Become Next Big Health Problem In Schools; Kids Know But Parents Don’t; Feds Need To Get Ahead

Standing with a NYC doctor, while delivering a new warning to parents, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer called on the FDA & the FTC to investigate ‘ZYN,’ a highly addictive nicotine pouch that is becoming more and more popular among teens. Schumer explained that ZYN are small, white pouches that look a lot like chewing gum, but loaded with addictive nicotine that can wreak havoc on a teen’s mind and body.

Schumer echoed concerns that these nicotine pouches could become the next trend in addiction for teens, and said these pouches can be especially dangerous to growing, adolescent minds. As he urged the FTC and FDA to take action, Schumer explained that with cigarette smoking on the decline, tobacco companies have shifted focus to “smokeless” tobacco products, including oral nicotine pouches. Schumer also pointed to data showing these pouches growing in popularity. Overall sales of nicotine pouch products increased from $126.06 million units from August to December 2019 to $808.14 million units from January to March 2022.

“Amid federal action against e-cigs and their grip on young people, a quiet and dangerous alternative has emerged and it is called ZYN,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “Today, I am delivering a new warning to parents because these nicotine pouches seem to lock their sights on teens and use social media to hook them. Kids know what ZYN is but parents don’t. That is why I am asking the FTC and the FDA to step in here and take action on marketing and health concerns related to this product. The amount of nicotine is highly addictive and much more needs to be done to understand and communicate the health risks for young people. Our schools have been inundated with e-cigs and we took action, seeing federal results. ZYN is the next battle and the feds must be ready because Big Tobacco will stop at nothing to hook kids for life.”

Schumer also said there are also ‘Zynfluencers’ who’ve made nicotine pouches a part of their online personalities. Videos on TikTok tagged with “zyn” are approaching 300 million views. According to Influencity, a software program that estimates the ages of social media users by analyzing profile photos and selfies in recent posts, it is estimated that roughly 10 percent of just one ZYN-fluencer account called the Nelk Boys’ on YouTube, targets more than 800,000 children ages 13 to 17.

Schumer said that nicotine use during adolescence has been shown to impact learning, attention span and proneness to addiction. Zyn products, in particular, can deliver as much as 6 milligrams of nicotine per pouch. According to a Nielsen data report, Zyn nicotine pouch dollar sales in convenience stores increased a whopping 470% in the first half of 2020 alone. No current regulations exist that prevent or restrict flavored nicotine pouches and marketing restrictions are not as rigid as those on smokeless or combustible tobacco products. Side effects of use can include irritation of the gums, sore mouth, nausea and most importantly, nicotine addiction which increases relapse risk with other tobacco products. Nicotine pouches can contain high concentrations of nicotine, which can put users at risk of nicotine addiction and can make quitting more challenging, according to Truth Initiative.

“The bottom line here is that Big Tobacco has invested a lot of money into an incognito nicotine pouch that’s packed with problems and seemingly targets kids. ZYN, owned by Philip Morris, is the market leader in this category, and the feds need to take swift action to get ahead of this nicotine pouch trend before it becomes the next vape crisis,” Schumer said.

“We shouldn’t let the exciting notion of a novel smoking sensation product simultaneously get kids hooked on a new nicotine product,” said Dr. Mike Varshavski.

A copy of Schumer’s letter to the FTC appears below:

Dear Chair Khan

I write today amid publicized concern by both parents and pediatricians as it relates to a nicotine product rising called “Zyn.” The brand, which comes in small white pouches that resemble chewing gum is ubiquitously available and is relying heavily on social media for marketing, has the attention of teenagers. Many physicians have serious concerns about Zyn due to its highly addictive nature, and I write to specifically urge your agency to investigate Zyn for its marketing practices to ensure it is not being marketed to teenagers.

Zyns come in two strengths in the United States, three and six milligrams. The New York Times wrote about an instance where a single six-milligram pouch is a dose so high that first-time users on TikTok have said it caused them to vomit or pass out. The article additionally discussed videos showing a middle-schooler “who needs a jolt of nicotine” during a spelling bee and a video in which a “zynfluencer” argues that a young child should be able to have a three-milligram Zyn pouch.

A simple search on social media for Zyn will generate an eye-popping amount of content. The company reports that said Zyn doesn’t have partnerships or product promotion with any social media influencers or celebrities despite the eye-popping amount of content on social media. Again, I urge your agency to investigate Zyn’s marketing practices, specifically on social media and to seriously consider Zyn’s marketing towards children as part of any investigation.

Sincerely,

Charles E. Schumer

United States Senator

SCHUMER URGES CONGRESS TO ACT QUICKLY TO AVOID NEEDLESS GOVT SHUTDOWN THAT WILL OCCUR FRIDAY IF HOUSE & SENATE DON'T ACT; ANNOUNCES HE WILL BRING BILL TO FLOOR THIS TUESDAY; SHUTDOWN WOULD HURT NEW YORK & NATION; SENATOR MADE SURE NEW YORK WASN’T SINGLED-OUT FOR NASTY CUTS

Schumer Says When Some On Very Hard Right Say They Want A Shutdown They Are Pushing For VA Closures, No Food Inspections, Delayed Military Benefits, & So Much More

Schumer Says ONLY A Bipartisan Deal Can Get Passed – And That Is What He Will Bring To Floor This Upcoming TUESDAY

Schumer: New York Can’t Afford A Shutdown & Nation, Too, Would Be Greatly Hurt – For No Reason

Warning that a Friday government shutdown is not what New York or the nation needs right now, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer urged the House and Senate to act quickly to avoid one. Schumer announced that he will bring the bill to keep the government open and operating to the floor this upcoming TUESDAY. Schumer detailed his bipartisan efforts amid these negotiations and said that he worked hard to make sure New York wasn’t singled-out for nasty cuts that hard right politicians can try and cast upon New York. Schumer explained that a shutdown would adversely impact the nation– from VA closures, to food inspections, delayed military benefits, and so much more.

“For the most part, both parties – Democrats and Republicans – agree we don’t want a shutdown. Instead, we want to work together,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “Now, there are those on the hard right over in the House who think they can bully their colleagues and the House and the country into a shutdown. Amazingly, this band of hard right extremists actually say a shutdown would be a good thing—but we know it is not. We have seen this movie before, and it’s not a good one.”

“To those thirty or so hard right extremists, I ask: how on Earth would it be good for the country to freeze – for example – nutrition programs that benefit seven million women, infants, and children – many of those women, pregnant? How would it be good for the country to close regional VA offices and keep our veterans who served us – many of whom risked their lives for us – waiting in line to get the benefits they are entitled to?,” Schumer said.

“How would it be good for the country to furlough food inspectors that ensure the groceries we buy don’t make us sick? Or delay new applications for military retirement benefits? These are just a few of the things that will happen if we shut down this Friday,” Schumer added.

Schumer explained that the government is funded through 12 individual spending bills, an ‘omnibus.’ On Friday, Jan. 19, funding will run out for programs under four of the twelve bills, which include Agriculture, Energy and Water Development, Military Construction-Veterans Affairs, Transportation-Housing and Urban Development. If Congress doesn’t act to extend funds for those four bills by Friday, there would be a partial government shutdown. Reports note that programs under the other eight bills, including defense spending, are currently slated to run out of funds two weeks later, on Feb. 2.

According to data and research by the Centers for American Progress, many federal programs immediately cease during federal shutdowns:

Some preschool and school readiness centers would close, leading to some children losing their Head Start benefits.
Most inspections of drinking water facilities and hazardous waste sites that are led by the EPA would cease, with 93 percent of its staff furloughed.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration would continue with its high-risk food safety inspections, but its routine inspections of low-risk foods, such as packaged cookies and crackers, would cease.
Workplace safety inspections made by the Occupational Safety and Hazard Administration (OSHA) would be limited, leading to some workers laboring in unsafe conditions.
The Small Business Administration would stop processing new loan applications.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s loans to farmers would pause.
The Department of Justice would postpone or curtail some of its civil litigation.
Much research from NASA and the National Science Foundation would cease, with new grants and unfunded new projects halted and 93 percent and 80 percent of their staff, respectively, furloughed.
The longer a shutdown lasts, the more programs are put at risk—as contingency funds run dry, grants expire, and some states and local governments grow increasingly unable to advance the money to run joint federal-state programs.

Schumer announced, today, that he will bring the bill to KEEP the government open and operating to the floor this upcoming TUESDAY. Schumer said that only a bipartisan deal can be passed and that is what he will bring to the floor. Schumer also said he worked hard to make sure New York wasn’t singled-out for nasty cuts amid this process.

“New York and the nation cannot afford a gratuitous shutdown,” Schumer said. “When I put this bill on the floor Tuesday, it is with the hope that bipartisan ration will prevail so the important work of government can continue, uninterrupted.”

SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND, OCASIO-CORTEZ DELIVER $15 MILLION, THROUGH BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE & JOBS LAW, TO BUILD ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING DEPOT IN THE BRONX; CHARGING STATION IN HUNTS POINT WILL SERVICE BOTH FREIGHT & PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH 20 FAST EV CHARGING PORTS AND 8 LEVEL 2 CHARGERS

Schumer Helped Create New EV Charging Grant In BIL, Now Fed Funds Will Help Power EV Charging In Hunts Point Neighborhood In The Bronx, Paving The Way For Cleaner Air

Schumer, Gillibrand, Ocasio-Cortez: The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law Is Supercharging Cleaner Air and EV Infrastructure In The Bronx!

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez today announced $15 million in federal funding for New York City Department of Transportation to build an electric vehicle (EV) charging depot in the Bronx. Located in the Hunts Point neighborhood, the charging depot will accommodate both freight and passenger vehicles with 20 fast EV charging ports and eight Level 2 chargers.

“I am proud to support a new and exciting mission to build electric vehicle charging infrastructure throughout New York City and other American cities, so cars can have easy access to efficient charging, and to support the adoption of cleaner, electric vehicles,” said Senator Chuck Schumer. “The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act I led to passage included $2.5 billion to help pay for EV charging infrastructure, and funding projects like the Hunts Point charging depot will only accelerate our goals to lessen carbon emissions and pave the way for a cleaner, healthier future – especially in a community with a sky-high asthma rate. New York City is leading the way in building out our nation’s network of EV chargers, supercharging the fight against climate change and creating a cleaner, electric future for all.”

“Electric mobility is the future of transportation and will help create a healthier, cleaner environment for New Yorkers,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This federal funding will be used to build much-needed EV charging infrastructure in the Bronx to help get more electric vehicles on the road, leading to a reduction in carbon emissions and cleaner air for New York City residents. I am proud to have advocated for this funding and will continue to fight to create a healthier environment for all.”

“Investing in projects like the Hunts Point charging depot is a significant step forward in working towards our goals to reduce carbon emissions and build a cleaner future for our city and planet. These electric vehicle charging stations are especially welcome in The Bronx, which has some of the highest childhood asthma rates in the United States. Establishing more EV charging stations in New York City and across the United States will improve air quality for our children and families in the borough and across the country. I’m proud that NYC is leading in this initiative to transition to clean energy and combat the climate crisis,” said Rep. Ocasio-Cortez.

The federal funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grant Program, which the senator created in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act. Schumer said, “This project will support the growing demand for electric vehicle use, lessen carbon emissions, and pave the way for a cleaner future by making charging infrastructure more accessible.”

Schumer, Gillibrand and Ocasio-Cortez have been relentless champions for encouraging the adoption of more electric vehicles, helping bring production back from overseas and expanding charging infrastructure for all communities. In the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act, Schumer successfully secured $7.5 billion to build out a national network of EV chargers, including an estimated $175 million over the next 5 years in funding for EV charging stations for New York State. New York’s first federally funded rapid charging EV station was installed last month.

Established by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that the senators and congresswoman were instrumental in passing, the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant Program (CFI program) is administering $2.5 billion over five years to strategically deploy accessible electric vehicle charging and alternative fueling infrastructure in the places people live and work, in both urban and rural areas, including downtown areas and local neighborhoods, particularly in underserved and disadvantaged communities. This first round of funding, $700 million from fiscal years 2022 and 2023, is available for strategic EV charging infrastructure and other fueling infrastructure projects and will make modern and sustainable infrastructure accessible to all drivers of electric, hydrogen, propane, and natural gas vehicles. These types of programs will accelerate the deployment of transformative projects that will help ensure the reliability of clean energy infrastructure, so all American communities have access to affordable, reliable, clean electricity anytime, anywhere.

SCHUMER DELIVERS OVER $60 MILLION THROUGH THE BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE & JOBS LAW FOR 180 NEW CLEAN, ELECTRIC SCHOOL BUSES AND BUS CHARGERS FOR NEW YORK CITY

Schumer Has Pushed To “Electrify” Mass Transit Buses And School Buses Across The U.S. To Benefit Public Health & The Environment; Public Buses Account For Millions Of Metric Tons Of Pollutants & Carbon In The Air

Diesel Exhaust From School Buses Pollutes Neighborhoods And Has Been Linked To Asthma In Children, But Now Thanks To $$ Schumer Secured, Over Ten Thousand Kids Will Have A Cleaner, Safer Commute To School

Schumer: Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Is Driving Us Towards A Healthier Future For New York City

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced that New York City School Bus Umbrella Services (NYCSBUS) will receive a $29.5 million grant to purchase 100 clean school buses and 100 bus chargers, and J.P. Bus and Truck Repair Ltd. will receive a $31.5 million grant to purchase 80 clean school buses and 86 bus chargers. These grants are distributed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through its new Clean School Bus Program, which was created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act Schumer led to passage.

“This $60 million for 180 clean, electric school busses will supercharge New York City to accelerate on the road to electrifying transit and creating an emissions-free future. Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, as the wheels of the new, electric school busses go round-and-round, this win helps in the fight against climate change, and gives students and communities cleaner air,” said U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer. “I led the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law to passage so communities across the state have the federal funding needed to combat climate change, and now, for the second year in a row, this major investment will set the wheels in motion to put new electric school buses on New York’s roads, curbing carbon emissions, decreasing pollution, and improving air quality for students across America. I am proud to deliver this tremendous environmental justice investment that will carry our students to a brighter, emissions-free future.”

Schumer said that New York City School Bus Umbrella Services (NYCSBUS) and J.P. Bus and Truck Repair Ltd. were two of only 67 applicants in the country to be selected as part of this round of the EPA’s Clean School Bus Program’s Grants Competition. Schumer explained that diesel exhaust from old fossil fuel powered buses is a major contributor to air quality problems in many communities and has been linked to poor health and asthma, especially among children. These substantial federal grants will help transition New York State’s school bus fleets to all electric.

For years Schumer has made the case to electrify bus transit across the U.S., including both mass transit buses and school buses. In 2022, Schumer delivered a $116 million grant for the MTA for 230 electric buses and over $18 million in federal EPA grants for electric school buses for New York City school districts. Nationwide, the awards announced today total nearly $1 billion to 37 states, which will improve the quality of life of over seven million students by adding more than 2,700 clean school buses in 280 school districts to the nation’s fleet. New York alone is receiving nearly $69 million to add 200 clean school buses and 206 bus charges across the state.

Schumer explained that three years after it passed through Congress, the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law continues to drive demand for American-made batteries and vehicles, creating jobs and supporting domestic manufacturing, while also removing old, dirty diesel buses and ferries from some of the most vulnerable communities.

SCHUMER ANNOUNCES MAJOR FED FUNDING OPPORTUNITY FOR COMMUNITY ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE GROUPS; FORDHAM UNIVERSITY AWARDED $50 MILLION FOR GRANTMAKING TO COMMUNITY-BASED ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE PROJECTS; SCHUMER SECURED THESE FUNDS IN THE INFLATION REDUCTION ACT, THE LARGEST CLIMATE IMPROVEMENT INVESTMENT IN U.S. HISTORY

Schumer-Passed Federal Law Contains Hundreds of Millions In Federal Funds Via EPA for Community-Based Environmental Justice Groups Across The Country; Tens of Millions Will Be Distributed To Groups Across The Region

Fordham University Set To Oversee $50 Million For Grassroots Organizations Fighting Climate Change On The Frontlines

Grants Will Be Awarded To Projects Focused On Workforce Development, Public & Environmental Health, Coastal Resilience, Clean Energy Transition, & Much More

Today U.S. Senator Charles Schumer announced $50 million in federal funding, distributed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and its Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking program, for Fordham University to serve as a Regional Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaker.

Fordham will award subgrants to community-based organizations leading environmental justice projects. The university will prioritize awarding grants to initiatives focused on workforce development, public and environmental health, coastal resilience, community access to and revitalization of green spaces and waterways, clean energy transition, sustainable transportation, and more key environmental justice areas.

These federal funds were secured by Senator Schumer in the Inflation Reduction Act, the largest investment in environmental and climate justice in U.S. history. Through the Inflation Reduction Act, EPA received billions to award grants to benefit disadvantaged communities.

“From the ground up and the sky down, it is all hands on deck to fight the carbon pollution driving climate change and causing devastating extreme weather events. And this first-of-its-kind effort, that I made sure we amply funded in the Inflation Reduction Act, to directly invest in the grassroots environmental justice groups on the frontlines of the climate fight, is a critical element of that effort,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer.

“Today’s announcement from EPA regarding grant money for grassroots environmental justice groups showcases exactly why I fought so hard for the Inflation Reduction Act,” said Schumer. “This $50 million for our own Fordham University, and $600 million for 11 regional grantmakers across the country, that is distributed to community-based non-profits fighting on the frontlines of climate change, is the kind of program that can help our disadvantaged communities truly flourish. I am proud of Fordham University and I’m so excited to see how the vibrant network of New York and Puerto Rican grassroots environmental justice organizations leverage this federal funding. I remain laser-focused on implementation of the IRA so that we can ensure it lives up to its transformative potential to clean our air and combat climate change.”

“These grants are seeds for our communities that will grow into a cleaner, healthier, more resilient and just future,” Schumer added.

Fordham University will work with EPA’s Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights to issue subgrants to community-based nonprofit organizations and other eligible organizations representing disadvantaged communities, according to the EPA. The subgrants are expected to be available by summer of 2024. Grantmakers, like Fordham, and Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers, will support eligible applicants through the process.

Fordham will focus on awarding subgrants to projects on workforce development and student success for the green economy; capacity-building for grassroots community-based organizations; public and environmental health; coastal resilience; community access to and revitalization of green spaces, waterways and underutilized areas; clean energy transition; biodiversity and conservation; sustainable transportation; and sustainable agriculture, food systems and food security.

SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND, TORRES DRIVE MASSIVE, $150 MILLION FED GRANT TO CROSS-BRONX EXPRESSWAY PROJECT TO JUMPSTART ‘COMMUNITY CONNECTOR ROADWAY’; NEW, SAFER BUS LANES, PATHWAYS FOR BIKES & PEDESTRIANS WILL TRANSFORM THE ENTIRE NEIGHBORHOOD & HELP CONNECT THE BOROUGH; SENATORS & CONGRESSMAN MADE PROJECT A FED PRIORITY

Schumer & Torres Already Delivered Fed Funds To Help Cap Portions Of The Expressway With Greenery & Other Efforts To Tackle Asthma Rates, Pollution While Reconnecting Neighborhoods—NOW, This ‘MEGA’ Grant Of $150 Million Will Help Change The Game By Transforming The Expressway In Even More Positive Ways

6 Lanes Wide, One Of The Busiest & Most Polluted Freeways In NYC Is Getting The Fed Spotlight Schumer, Gillibrand & Torres Have Fought For

Schumer, Gillibrand, Torres: We Got The Feds To Hit The Gas And Drive $150 Million To The Bronx For This Game-Changing Community Connector Roadway Redevelopment

Schumer, Gillibrand and Torres said the funds are part of the federal MEGA grant program they helped create when they passed President Biden’s bipartisan infrastructure law in the Senate and House.

As the CBE passes over many local streets and railroad tracks in the Bronx section of New York City, much of its structure is comprised of bridges and viaducts. Five bridges are the subject of the NYSDOT’s Rehabilitation/Replacement of Five Cross Bronx Expressway (I-95) Bridges between Boston Road and Rosedale Avenue, Bronx County(PIN X727.07) project. The overall project includes the design and construction of a new ramp that connects the southbound Bronx River Parkway to the westbound CBE and a new, Multimodal Community Connector Roadway (MCCR) that links Boston Road to the west and Rosedale Avenue to the east.

NEW AGREEMENT WITH CHINA ON FENTANYL COULD BE MAJOR STEP FORWARD TO CURB OPIOID CRISIS IN THE BRONX, BUT NOW WE NEED TO HOLD CHINA ACCOUNTABLE AND MAKE SURE THERE IS COMPLIANCE; SENATOR DETAILS NEW DEAL WITH CHINA TO CRACK DOWN ON ILLICIT FENTANYL AND VOWS TO WATCH LIKE A HAWK FOR PROGRESS

Schumer Led Bipartisan Delegation And Personally Met With China’s President Xi Last Month To Demand Immediate Action To Stop Fentanyl Coming To America

Yesterday, President Biden — Citing Schumer’s Diplomacy — Announced New Deal To Crack Down On Chinese Companies Selling Fentanyl Precursor Chemicals, Increase Law Enforcement Cooperation With U.S., And Work At Senior Level To Directly Address Crisis

Schumer: We Still Have To Watch China Like A Hawk As Part Of New Deal To Cut Flow Of Deadly Fentanyl In NY And Nation

Following his personal meeting in China with President Xi Jinping last month, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today detailed how the new deal President Biden has struck with China to crack down on the scourge of fentanyl could be a major step forward to curb the opioid crisis in New York, but said now more than ever it is imperative to hold China accountable and ensure there is compliance with their commitments.

“The agreement President Biden has announced with China is a long overdue step which has the potential to help cut off the supply of fentanyl at its source and stop this drug before it ever enters our country and hits the streets of the Bronx, but now it is more vital than ever to hold China accountable for the commitments they have made,” said Senator Schumer. “Fentanyl has wreaked havoc in New York and across America, with this crisis stemming in large part in China, where large chemical companies openly and illicitly sell precursor chemicals to buyers in places like Mexico, where it is manufactured and illegally shipped to our most vulnerable communities here in NY. During my visit to China last month we were pointed and direct with President Xi, I told him the devastating impact I have seen the opioid crisis have on New York families. I am pleased to see China take what could be a major step forward to cut off the flow of fentanyl and I am going to be watching like a hawk for progress.”

Specifically, Schumer explained China’s has said it will take new action to enforce its own regulations against the companies which make precursor drugs in a major step to potentially cut off the flow of this deadly drug. A similar notice to industry in 2019 led to a drastic reduction in seizures of fentanyl shipments to the United States from China. Schumer said the U.S. also has information that that PRC police have taken law enforcement action against Chinese synthetic drug and chemical precursor suppliers. As a result, certain China-based pharmaceutical companies ceased operations and have had some international payment accounts blocked. This probably represents the first law enforcement action against synthetic drug-related chemical sellers by Chinese authorities since 2017.

In addition, China and the United States will be launching a counter narcotics working group to bolster law enforcement and information sharing to cut off the flow of precursor drugs and illicit fentanyl. The U.S. and China have both said they will also start working on an ongoing basis at the senior level to directly address this crisis and start working closely together to carry this initiative forward. In conjunction, Schumer said these long overdue steps have real potential to reduce the flow of these drugs into the United States and places like New York, and ultimately save lives.

Schumer added, “Too many lives have been lost, and too many others are at stake, especially here in New York. Today is a pivotal step forward in a decades long battle and I will be fighting to hold China’s feet to the fire and keep them accountable for their commitments to cut off the flow of fentanyl to America. I told President Xi that China taking steps to crack down on the sale of precursor chemicals would be a long overdue step to strengthening the relationship between our two nations and hope to see continued results from China in the near future.”

Illicit fentanyl is trafficked into the United States primarily from China and Mexico, and is responsible for the ongoing fentanyl epidemic in New York and across the country. China is the world’s largest producer of illicit fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, and their immediate precursors. Some officials estimate that China is responsible for over 90 percent of the illicit fentanyl found in the U.S. From China, those substances are shipped primarily through express consignment carriers or international mail directly to the United States, or, alternatively, shipped directly to transnational criminal organizations in other countries like Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean where the drug is then manufactured.

In New York in 2020, 87.9 percent of all overdose deaths involving any opioid involved synthetic opioids, predominantly illicitly manufactured fentanyl like described above. In 2022, New York City saw overdose deaths reach record numbers at over 3,000, predominantly driven by illicit fentanyl. Most recent county by county data on the impact of the opioid crisis in New York can be found here. The additional enforcement and actions announced today will help tackle the spread of fentanyl directly by ensuring the chemicals used to make the illicit drug never reaches its targets, cutting off the manufacturing of the drug before it can reach streets in communities across America.

SCHUMER JOINS STRIKING UAW WORKERS ON THE PICKET LINE IN NEW YORK AND CALLS ON AUTOMAKERS TO BARGAIN IN GOOD FAITH

New York, N.Y. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer today released the following statement after joining United Auto Workers in New York striking for better wages, health benefits, and safer working conditions:

“The UAW and its world-class workforce has helped build and strengthen America’s car-and-truck industry and the middle class, and nowhere is that more true than the Empire State – from the Hudson Valley to Western New York. Today, I joined UAW Local 3039 workers in Rockland County on the picket line in the fight for better wages, better benefits, and improved working conditions, and I stand with them in solidarity. I urge the car companies to stay at the table and bargain with UAW in good faith to quickly reach a new contract with fair wages, benefits and working conditions.”

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

Washington, D.C. – Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) today spoke on the Senate floor on the anniversary of September 11^th, 2001. Below are Senator Schumer’s remarks, which can also be viewed here:

There is one day of the year that, for me, will always embody what is most admirable and most enduring about the American spirit. And that day is today.

Twenty-two years after the towers fell in New York, after a plane crashed into the Pentagon, after United 93 came down in Pennsylvania, we pay our respects to those we lost on September 11^th. We mourn their loss, every last soul taken from us too early.

And we honor and thank every single American who became an unassuming hero in the aftermath of the attack: the first responders, the legions of volunteers and blood donors, the nameless many who did their part.

I’ll never forget so many scenes: one of them was a guy who owned a shoe store a few blocks north of the World Trade Center, who was just handing out shoes to everybody because many people had lost their shoes as they tried to escape from the towers. But so many different things.

Everywhere I go, I always wear this pin on my lapel as a reminder of our sacred promise to never forget. I called on Americans the day after to wear and display the flag. Just about everybody did, as a sign of unity, of us coming together under an awful day. And I wear it every day and every time I look at this flag, I think about the so many who were lost.

I was at Ground Zero this morning and when you just hear the names that were read of every different background, they have people come up who have lost loved ones, every different background, every different philosophy, race, creed, color, religion, origin, talking about the people they lost.

And I’ll remember, when I went down the day after, when President Bush sent a plane for then-Senator Clinton and I to come up, a thousand people holding up little signs: “have you seen my brother Bill? Have you seen my daughter Mary?” Because when people were missing that first day, people had hoped and prayed that maybe they were still alive. But, of course, very few were.

So, a lifetime can pass, but to me, it always feels like yesterday. I look out my window, I see the Freedom Tower, a symbol of resilience in New York. You can see it from my window in Brooklyn. But I also think of the Twin Towers that were there and so many who were lost. I remember that day: the smell of the pile, human flesh, the noise from the chaos of the aftermath, the images of destruction that New Yorkers and Americans had never seen.

I remember three friends of mine who perished: a guy I played basketball with in high school, a businessman who helped me on my way up, a firefighter I went around New York City and did blood drives with. They’re gone, twenty-two years ago.

But most of all, that day stays with me because on that day, and in the days that followed, I saw countless ordinary Americans do extraordinary things. Taxi drivers and store managers and businessmen and city workers – and so many others – dropped what they were doing and became heroes. Gave blood. Organized prayer vigils. Helped neighbors track down family members. Visited with loved ones and friends who had lost loved ones.

I saw firefighters and policemen and union workers and rescue workers cast aside any concern for their own safety as they worked the pile. Many of them – far too many – became sick and even died because of their illnesses.

Our obligation to care for these first responders continues to this day. It’s why I worked hard along with Senator Gillibrand to add $450 million for the World Trade Center Health Program to the NDAA.

It’s why I fought and successfully added another $1 billion for that program in last year’s omnibus, as well as The Fairness for 9/11 Families Act.

And it’s why last summer Congress enacted the largest expansion of veterans health benefits in the PACT Act. Because we learned what these carcinogens could do to people, whether it was over in Iraq or down on the pile in lower New York.

Because the phrase “Never Forget” is not just about remembering what happened two decades ago, it’s all about taking action today to honor and care for all those who made ultimate sacrifices in the defense of our beautiful nation.

So, may God bless the memories of all those who perished on 9/11. May God bless our first responders, our service members, their families. And may God bless our great democracy and may we keep it.

SCHUMER URGES HOUSE TO PASS SENATE LEGISLATION THAT WILL DRAMATICALLY STOP FLOW OF FENTANYL TO U.S., NYC, LI & BEYOND; SENATOR JUST PASSED BILL TO IMPOSE TOUGH SANCTIONS ON CHINA, MEXICO—BUT HOUSE HAS TO FINISH JOB; WILL DEAL BIG BLOW TO THE FENTANYL SUPPLY CHAIN KILLING AMERICANS

Schumer Just Led NDAA (Defense Bill) To Passage In Senate; Bipartisan Passage Included Schumer’s Recent Push To Declare International Fentanyl Trafficking A National Emergency & Impose First-Ever Tough Sanctions On Countries That Send The Illicit Drug To U.S.

BUT Now The House MUST Act & Include Schumer’s Bipartisan Push Into Final Passage When Congress Returns; Senator Announces Major Push To Make This Happen

Schumer: We Are On The Cusp Of A Breakthrough Moment That Would Upend The Flow Of Fentanyl To NYC, LI & Beyond

Just two weeks after his push to sanction China and others for fentanyl trafficking that’s killing New Yorkers, and back from DC where he passed the bipartisan defense bill with his fentanyl plan included. U.S. Senator Charles Schumer rallied to finish the job by calling on the House and Speaker McCarthy to act when they return to DC. Schumer detailed how the just-passed, bipartisan defense bill (NDAA) he led through the Senate included his effort to impose tough sanctions on China, Mexico and address the trafficking of fentanyl to New York City, Long Island and beyond.

“We are at a breakthrough moment in the fentanyl crisis where the traffickers who are killing Americans can finally be held to account in meaningful and proactive ways, but we need the House to act,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “For years, Chinese laboratories have been cooking-up formulas of death and freely trafficking lethal fentanyl across New York, and to many other places across America, where it is killing tens-of-thousands of people—and it has to stop.”

“I worked in a bipartisan way to pass the defense bill with this fentanyl effort included, because the issue is not political—it’s commonsense. Now, we need the House to finish the job here and help us upend the flow of fentanyl to New York City, Long Island and beyond,” Schumer added.

Schumer said the Senate passage of the NDAA bill just days ago included the plan to officially declare international fentanyl trafficking a national emergency and give the president special powers to impose tough sanctions on China, Mexico, or any other relevant fentanyl supply chain hub. Schumer said this effort was bipartisan— with Senate Banking Chairman Sherrod Brown and Ranking Member Tim Scott partnering. Schumer declared that this should be part of the final bill in the House as he detailed the next steps to address the fentanyl and opioid crisis at the source: the places that send it here.

The House passed its own version of the National Defense Authorization Act earlier in July. Now that Schumer has passed NDAA in the Senate, lawmakers will need to reconcile the Senate bill and the House bill by negotiating a compromise version that can pass both chambers. The NDAA sets a policy agenda and approves funding for the Department of Defense.

Fentanyl is trafficked into the United States primarily from China and Mexico, and is responsible for the ongoing fentanyl epidemic. The People’s Republic of China is the world’s largest producer of illicit fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, and their immediate precursors. From the People’s Republic of China, those substances are shipped primarily through express consignment carriers or international mail directly to the United States, or, alternatively, shipped directly to transnational criminal organizations in Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean. Some officials estimate that China is responsible for over 90 percent of the illicit fentanyl found in the U.S.

Schumer said China’s authorities continue to turn a blind eye and look the other way while drug kingpins and Chinese manufacturers give exports the green light.

In 2021, nearly 107,000 Americans died from an overdose, and 65% of overdose deaths were caused by fentanyl. Last year alone, the Drug Enforcement Administration seized over 379 million deadly doses of fentanyl – enough to supply a lethal dose to every American.

Schumer explained to disrupt the flow of illicit opioids into the United States, and working alongside the Senate banking committee – the Chair and the Ranking member Senators Sherrod Brown and Tim Scott – he included the FEND Off Fentanyl Act in the just-passed defense bill. The bill does the following:

Declare that the international trafficking of fentanyl is a national emergency.
Require the President to sanction transnational criminal organizations and drug cartels’ key members engaged in international fentanyl trafficking.
Enable the President to use proceeds of forfeited, sanctioned property of fentanyl traffickers to further law enforcement efforts.
Enhance the ability to enforce sanctions violations thereby making it more likely that people who defy U.S. law will be caught and prosecuted.
Require the administration to report to Congress on actions the U.S. government is taking to reduce the international trafficking of fentanyl and related opioids.
Allow the Treasury Department to utilize special measures to combat fentanyl-related money laundering.
Require the Treasury Department to prioritize fentanyl-related suspicious transactions and include descriptions of drug cartels’ financing actions in Suspicious Activity Reports.

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is 30 to 50 times more potent than heroin. It is short acting and cannot be seen, tasted or smelled when mixed into other drugs. According to NYC, while pharmaceutical fentanyl is prescribed for severe pain and end of life care, non-pharmaceutical fentanyl is produced illicitly and is now common in the illicit drug supply. The presence of non-pharmaceutical fentanyl in New York City has dramatically increased the number of overdose deaths, and fentanyl is now the most common drug involved in overdose deaths. In 2022 alone, over 3,000 New York City residents died from a fentanyl-involved overdose, Schumer said.

According to the CDC, 107,735 Americans died between August 2021 and August 2022 from drug poisonings, with 66% of those deaths involving synthetic opioids like fentanyl. The Sinaloa Cartel and Jalisco Cartel in Mexico, using chemicals largely sourced from China, are primarily responsible for the vast majority of the fentanyl that is being trafficked in communities across the United States, the DEA has said publicly.

An April 2023 drug bust on Long Island, prevented 3 kilograms of pure fentanyl from hitting the streets, Nassau County police have said.

“That’s enough drugs to wipe out the entire population of Nassau County and probably a third of Suffolk County,” the Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick J. Ryder, said at the time.

“This has simply got to stop, and right now, we have a window of opportunity to act that we cannot lose. This bipartisan issue must be a major priority because too many lives have been lost and too many others are at stake, especially here in New York. I urge the House to follow the Senate’s lead and act,” Schumer said.

STANDING AT TONY BENNETT’S BENCH IN CENTRAL PARK, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES HE WILL INTRODUCE RESOLUTION TO DECLARE AUGUST 3RD—SINGER’S BIRTHDAY—AS “TONY BENNETT DAY”; BELOVED ARTIST FROM QUEENS WAS NEW YORK THROUGH & THROUGH & JUST SHY OF HIS 97TH BIRTHDAY

Tony Bennett Would Have Been 97 Years-Old On August 3rd; Schumer Will Announce Plan To Put United States Senate Resolution On Floor To Honor Bennett’s Contributions To New York, America & The Arts

Schumer, Just Off Phone With ‘San Francisco’s’ Nancy Pelosi, Will Announce She Will Sponsor In The House; Senator Will Cite Bennett’s Philanthropic Efforts, Service In The Armed Forces, Musical Legacy & More As He Makes Announcement

Schumer: Tony Bennett Was The Kind Of American Who Makes Us All Proud; He Lived “The Good Life”

Standing at Tony Bennett’s Central Park bench, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer announced, today, that the generation-spanning singer, philanthropist and WWII vet –and most importantly, New Yorker from Queens—will be the recipient of a U.S. Senate and House Resolution declaring the singer’s August 3^rd birthday as “Tony Bennett Day” across the country.

“Tony Bennett personified the American dream and the ‘Greatest Generation,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “Here is a man who sang about his heart while his soul was always here in New York. And there is something about those of us lucky enough to be born in New York: whatever we do, wherever we go, we give it our all. We are collectively known for this sort of aura, and Tony was no exception. The King of Croon is beloved from coast-to-coast, his reach spanned genres and generations—but he is, and he will always be, a New Yorker who did so much good.”

Schumer said Tony Bennett was a New Yorker through and through and that his passing, just shy of his August 3^rd birthday, when he would have been 97 years-old, should be commemorated. Schumer announced his plan to bring the Resolution to the floor and honor Bennett’s contributions to New York, America, and the arts. Schumer also said he just called Nancy Pelosi this morning and she has agreed to sponsor the same Resolution in the House. Schumer said that Tony Bennett is the kind of American who makes us all proud and that this talent of the ‘Greatest Generation’ deserves the honor.

“So, here at Tony’s favorite Central Park bench, I can say that the Senate and the House will honor Tony Bennett with a formal Resolution declaring his upcoming birthday, August 3^rd, as ‘Tony Bennett Day’ across the country. Not only has Tony earned the commemoration, but he makes us all proud to be Americans,” Schumer added.

Tony Bennett was an American singer who had a seven-decade-long career. He recorded over 70 albums and won 20 Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award. He was also known for his humanitarian work, and military service. He was a combat infantryman in World War II and helped liberate a concentration camp. Bennett was born in Astoria, New York, in 1926. He began singing at an early age, and after serving in the Army during World War II, he signed with Columbia Records in 1950. His first hit single was “Because of You” in 1951, and he went on to release a string of successful albums throughout the 1950s and 1960s.

His signature song, “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” was released in 1962 and became a worldwide hit. Bennett continued to record and perform throughout his life, and his later albums, such as “Duets: An American Classic” (2006) and “Cheek to Cheek” (2014), were both commercial and critical successes. He was also a talented painter and has exhibited his work in galleries around the world. He had also supported many causes, including civil rights and Alzheimer’s disease research, Schumer said.

A draft of Schumer’s resolution honoring Tony Bennett appears below.

August 3rd: Tony Bennett Day

WHEREAS, Tony Bennett, born Anthony Dominick Benedetto on August 3rd, 1926, is an iconic American singer, performer, and artist, who has made significant contributions to the world of music and entertainment throughout his illustrious career; and

WHEREAS, Tony Bennett’s unparalleled talent, exceptional vocal range, and soulful renditions of timeless classics have touched the hearts of millions of people around the globe, leaving an indelible mark on the American cultural landscape; and

WHEREAS, Tony Bennett’s dedication to his craft, tireless pursuit of excellence, and unwavering commitment to preserving the Great American Songbook have earned him numerous accolades, including 20 Grammy Awards, a Kennedy Center Honor, and the distinction of being an NEA Jazz Master; and

WHEREAS, Tony Bennett’s musical legacy has not only enriched the lives of his fans but also served as an inspiration to countless aspiring artists, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and strive for greatness; and

WHEREAS, Tony Bennett’s philanthropic efforts, including his support for arts education and humanitarian causes, have exemplified his compassionate spirit and commitment to making the world a better place; and

WHEREAS, Tony Bennett was a native son of Astoria, Queens – a community that was always close to his heart, demonstrated by his efforts to open the Frank Sinatra High School of the Arts in the neighborhood; and

WHEREAS, Tony Bennett’s devotion to his country was evident during his service in the United States Army during World War II, where he played a vital role in bringing joy and comfort to his fellow soldiers through his musical talents; and

WHEREAS, on this day, August 3rd, we commemorate the birth of this legendary artist, a day which marks not only the passing of another year but also an opportunity to celebrate his extraordinary life and the impact he has had on the United States and the world;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the United States Senate proclaims August 3^rd as “Tony Bennett Day” across the country, urging all citizens to join together in honoring this extraordinary man and the tremendous contributions he has made to the arts and society at large; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the United States Senate calls upon educational institutions, community organizations, and the people of the United States to participate in events and activities that celebrate Tony Bennett’s music, career, and philanthropy, fostering a deeper appreciation for the arts and the role they play in enriching our lives.

SCHUMER ANNOUNCES MAJOR PUSH TO UPEND FLOW OF FENTANYL TO U.S., NYC, LI & BEYOND IN UPCOMING DEFENSE BILL; MOVE WOULD OFFICIALLY DECLARE INTERNATIONAL FENTANYL TRAFFICKING A NATIONAL EMERGENCY & GIVE POTUS SPECIAL POWERS TO IMPOSE TOUGH SANCTIONS ON CHINA, MEXICO OR ANY OTHER FENTANYL SUPPLY CHAIN HUB

Fentanyl Continues To Snatch Lives Across Nation & New York; So Much Of It Comes From China, Where It’s Cooked Up & Then Lethally Exported & Trafficked Across Country, Like Here In NYC & On LI

Schumer’s Bipartisan Push Would, For FIRST TIME, Use Upcoming Defense Bill To Address Fentanyl & Opioid Crisis At The Source: The Places That Send It Here

Schumer: I’m Bringing The Defense Bill To The Floor With Plan To Beat Back Fentanyl

Saying that for years, Chinese laboratories, amongst other places, have been cooking-up formulas of death and then freely trafficking lethal fentanyl across New York, and to many other places across America, where it is killing tens-of-thousands of people, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer announced a major push as Majority Leader of the Senate. He said that he will include major fentanyl-stopping and sanction-empowering legislation in the upcoming must-pass defense bill that he will bring to the Floor.

Schumer said the move would officially declare international fentanyl trafficking a national emergency and give the president special powers to impose tough sanctions on China, Mexico, or any other relevant fentanyl supply chain hub. Schumer said this effort is bipartisan— with Senate Banking Chairman Sherrod Brown and Ranking Member Tim Scott partnering on this effort. Schumer declared that it should pass. He detailed the next steps to address the fentanyl and opioid crisis at the source: the places that send it here.

“For years, Chinese laboratories have been cooking-up formulas of death and freely trafficking lethal fentanyl across New York, and to many other places across America, where it is killing tens-of-thousands of people—and it has to stop,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “When it comes to taking genuine action to address this crisis, China continues to kick the can down the road while American lives are kicked to the curb, enveloped by addiction or cut all too short by tragedy.”

Schumer said China’s authorities continue to turn a blind eye and look the other way while drug kingpins and Chinese manufacturers give exports the green light.

Schumer explained to disrupt the flow of illicit opioids into the United States, and working alongside the Senate banking committee – the Chair and the Ranking member Senators Sherrod Brown and Tim Scott – he will include the FEND Off Fentanyl Act in to the upcoming defense bill. The bill would:

Declare that the international trafficking of fentanyl is a national emergency.
Require the President to sanction transnational criminal organizations and drug cartels’ key members engaged in international fentanyl trafficking.
Enable the President to use proceeds of forfeited, sanctioned property of fentanyl traffickers to further law enforcement efforts.
Enhance the ability to enforce sanctions violations thereby making it more likely that people who defy U.S. law will be caught and prosecuted.
Require the administration to report to Congress on actions the U.S. government is taking to reduce the international trafficking of fentanyl and related opioids.
Allow the Treasury Department to utilize special measures to combat fentanyl-related money laundering.
Require the Treasury Department to prioritize fentanyl-related suspicious transactions and include descriptions of drug cartels’ financing actions in Suspicious Activity Reports.

An April 2023 drug bust on Long Island, prevented 3 kilograms of pure fentanyl from hitting the streets, Nassau County police have said.

“That’s enough drugs to wipe out the entire population of Nassau County and probably a third of Suffolk County,” the Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick J. Ryder, said at the time.

“This has simply got to stop, and right now, we have a window of opportunity with the upcoming defense bill (NDAA) that we cannot let close without having taken strong action. This bipartisan issue must be a major priority because too many lives have been lost and too many others are at stake, especially here in New York,” Schumer said.

SUMMER’S HOTTEST DRINK FOR KIDS—‘PRIME’—HAS SO MUCH CAFFEINE THAT IT PUTS RED BULL TO SHAME; PARENTS & PEDIATRICIANS ARE WORRIED; SENATOR DEMANDS FDA INVESTIGATE PRIME FOR MARKETING & ABSURD CAFFEINE CONTENT TARGETING KIDS ON SOCIAL MEDIA; SENATOR WARNS PARENTS WHO MIGHT THINK PRIME IS JUST A JUICE DRINK

Standing With Moms, A Columbia Pediatrician & Kids, Schumer Warns Unsuspecting Parents & Calls On FDA To Immediately Investigate Prime For Marketing & Caffeine Content

Prime Energy Drink, Marketed To Kids & Teens To Quench Thirst, Contains Eye-Popping 200mg Of Caffeine; That’s More Caffeine Content Than A Cup Of Coffee, A Can Of Coca Cola, Even A Red Bull; Senator Says Prime Is In Demand Because It’s Become A Social Media Influencer ‘Status Symbol’ That Kids Are Desperate To Copy

Schumer: Knowing What We Know, The Summer’s Hottest Drink Is ‘PRIME’ For An FDA Investigation

Revealing that one of the summer’s most in-demand drinks for kids—PRIME—is actually a cauldron of caffeine, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer called on the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate PRIME and its energy drink for claims, marketing and eye-popping caffeine content. Standing with a Columbia University Irving Medical Center pediatrician, moms and kids, Schumer issued a public warning about the super-caffeinated beverage to parents who might think their child is asking for something like a simple juice when at the store.

Schumer detailed how PRIME has more caffeine content than a cup of coffee, a can of Coca Cola, even a Red Bull. Schumer said that at 200mg for 12 ounces, PRIME could endanger the health of kids this summer as its demand skyrockets. Schumer explained, the drink has become a kid status symbol on social media and that the company website lacks warnings and other information to help parents. Schumer detailed what the FDA can do as he listed what an investigation should include.

“One of the summer’s hottest status symbols for kids is not an outfit, or a toy—it’s a beverage—but buyer and parents beware because it’s a serious health concern for the kids it so feverishly targets,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “PRIME is so new that most parents haven’t a clue about it, but it is born from the reels of social media and the enigmatic world of influencers. Kids see it on their phones or as they scroll, and they actually need it and the problem here is that this product has so much caffeine in it that it puts Red Bull to shame, but unlike Red Bull, this product has one true target market: children under the age of 18, and that is why I am sounding the alarm and asking the FDA to investigate PRIME.”

According to ABC, the drink, first released in the U.K. in 2022, has gone from just another variety beverage to a status symbol with its much-hyped marketing on TikTok. With flavors like tropical punch and strawberry watermelon, the company has been touted on TikTok videos saying it is “the fastest growing sports drink in history.” Other videos show influencers looking at a group of kids rapidly approaching a branded Prime drink bus. The drink comes in energy and hydration forms and has become wildly popular with kids, according to ABC. The bottled hydration version has no caffeine, but claims to be a ‘sports’ drink, while the canned energy version, which contains off-the-charts levels of caffeine, has raised serious concerns.

Schumer said a 12-ounce can of Coca Cola contains 34 milligrams of caffeine and an 8.4-ounce can of Red Bull has 80 milligrams. A 12-ounce can of Prime energy, by contrast, contains 200 milligrams of caffeine.

“This is eye-popping levels of caffeine for a child’s body,” added Schumer. “And because the product is billed as a hydration and sports drink in its other near-identical form, kids are likely to ingest cans of this stuff with parents unaware—and that’s a recipe for disaster.”

According to medical experts, “In children, caffeine can raise blood pressure and interfere with sleep. It can make children less aware of being tired. It can affect their moods and make anxiety worse. They can even suffer headaches from caffeine withdrawal.”

Medical experts add that “as more and more teens trade soda for energy drinks, they have become a focal point of caffeine consumption. The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) states that kids should not consume energy drinks and rarely need sports drinks. “Energy drinks pose potential health risks because of the stimulants they contain, and should never be consumed by children or adolescents,” according to the AAP. Schumer said labels should be standard and truthful and that PRIME is huckstering its products in a gray area that the FDA must investigate.

Schumer’s letter to FDA Commissioner Dr. Robert Califf appears below.

Dear Commissioner Califf,

I write today amid publicized concern by both parents and pediatricians as it relates to a relatively new beverage brand called “PRIME.” The brand, which comes in ‘hydration’ and ‘energy’ forms is ubiquitously available and was launched as a social media, influencer-type product that has the undivided attention of children under the age of eighteen. These same children are also the target market for Prime. Many physicians have serious concern for Prime, and I write to specifically urge your agency to investigate Prime for its claims, marketing and caffeine content.

For example, as reported by ABC News, a 12-ounce can of Coca Cola contains 34 milligrams of caffeine and an 8.4-ounce can of Red Bull has 80 milligrams. A 12-ounce can of Prime energy, by contrast, contains 200 milligrams of caffeine. Physicians across the country, and a Columbia pediatrician I stood with here in New York to warn parents about this in-demand drink, say 200 milligrams is a huge amount of caffeine that can have an adverse impact on the health of children.

An FDA investigation should consider the following:

Health claims by the ‘sports’ beverage PRIME
The marketing of PRIME’s energy drink, which is social media and influencer-specific
Caffeine content as well as sufficient warnings and/or labeling on both the product and its website
Is this level of caffeine included in the product safe for children?

A simple search on social media for Prime will generate an eye-popping amount of sponsored content, which is advertising. This content and the claims made should be investigated, along with the ingredients and the caffeine content in the Prime energy drink. The company reports that their drink “was developed to fill the void where great taste meets function.” The website features insufficient warnings about caffeine content, despite the eye-popping amount. Again, I urge your agency to investigate Prime for its overall claims, its marketing and the caffeine content, and to seriously consider Prime’s target market of children as part of any investigation.

Sincerely,

U.S. Senator Charles Schumer

Breaking News From Major

Dear fellow New Yorker

Mayor Adams and I joined the Greek community in celebration of Greek independence. Mayor Adams hosted a Greek heritage reception at Gracie Mansion and joined the community for a Greek flag raising ceremony at Bowling Green. The Mayor proudly marched alongside Greek New Yorkers at yesterday’s Greek Independence Day Parade on Fifth Avenue. We thank Greek New Yorkers for their invaluable contributions to the city.

This weekend, the Mayor and Commissioner also visited Gurdwara Baba Makhan Shah Lobana Sikh Center to commemorate harvest festival Vaisakhi. Happy Vaisakhi to the Sikh community!

We also celebrate Chaitra Navratri. Every year our Hindu community in the city and all over the world observes 9 days and 9 nights of Navratri, which begins on Tuesday, April 9th through Wednesday, April 17th.

Mayor Adams invited the Manhattanville community “Talk with Eric” at a neighborhood town hall in uptown Manhattan. We appreciate all the New Yorkers who came out to share their concerns with the Mayor, members of the administration, and city agencies.

Finally, Passover begins next Monday, April 22. It was a pleasure visiting matzah bakeries and food distribution sites this past weekend before the holiday. We wish all who celebrate Passover a Chag Kasher v’Sameach (happy holiday).

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

Key Updates

Open Streets: Car-Free Earth Day, April 20th.

Car-Free Earth Day is an annual car-free event hosted by NYC DOT. On Saturday, April 20, 2024 from 10am to 4pm. Programming is presented at signature and partner produced locations citywide, to promote activism and education surrounding climate change, sustainability, and other relevant topics. The event is also the kick off to the 2024 Open Streets.

Go to http://nyc.gov/carfreenyc for more informati

Youth Action Month 2024

April is Youth Action Month! In honor of Global Volunteer Month, NYC Service and NYC Public Schools are rallying New York City’s youth to sign up for volunteer projects with community-based organizations that need their support. If you are 14-18 years old, now’s your chance to get involved, have fun, and make a difference! Visit bit.ly/YouthActionMonth to register and sign up for a volunteer project near you!

Highlights From the City Hall Press Office:

Mayor Adams Celebrates Largest All-Affordable Housing Project in 40 Years, City’s First Soccer-Specific Stadium Moving Forward After Willets Point Phase 2 Vote

Mayor Eric Adams celebrated a historic win for affordable housing and economic development in the city of New York after the City Council voted to approve the Willets Point Phase 2 development as part of the Uniform Land User Review Procedure (ULURP). Willets Point’s 23 Acres of Land Will Include All-Affordable Housing Project, New Hotel, Over 150,000 Square Feet of New Public Open Space, and Soccer Stadium, and will Add Over $6 Billion in Economic Impact, Create Over 14,000 Construction Jobs and More Than 1,500 Permanent Jobs

Mayor Adams, DOT Commissioner Rodriguez Launch LockerNYC To Combat Package Theft And Reduce Delivery Truck Traffic

Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez today launched LockerNYC, a free pilot program that will utilize lockers installed on public sidewalks throughout multiple boroughs to allow New Yorkers to receive secure package deliveries. The LockerNYC pilot includes seven units, each with the capacity to securely hold 25 packages at a time and has the potential to further expand this year. The pilot is open to the public and the LockerNYC program will be available across multiple delivery carriers. New Yorkers can sign up for free and manage orders online.

Mayor Adams Celebrates Housing Milestone Ahead of Schedule, With Plans to Redevelop Bronx Library Into New Family-Friendly Housing And State-Of-The-Art Library

Mayor Eric Adams celebrated a major milestone towards the city’s ambitious “24 in 24” plan to advance 24 affordable housing projects on public sites in 2024 that will ultimately create or preserve over 12,000 units of housing. Delivering on a key promise in Mayor Adams’ State of the City address, the city has already advanced — ahead of schedule — housing on more than half the public sites it committed to moving forward on in 2024.

Additional Resources:

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.

MAYOR ADAMS, NYC HEALTH + HOSPITALS TO OPEN 16 MENTAL HEALTH CLINICS IN NEW YORK CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Clinics Will Serve Over 6,000 New York City Public Schools Students Across Bronx and Central Brooklyn

Clinics Part of Adams Administration’s $5 Million Mental Health Continuum Partnership to Support Over 20,000 Students in South Bronx and Central Brooklyn

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and NYC Health + Hospitals today announced the opening of 16 school-based mental health clinics in New York City Department of Education (DOE) schools over the next six months to serve over 6,000 students across the Bronx and Central Brooklyn. Clinics will offer students access to individual, family, and group therapy, with connections to outpatient clinics and telehealth services as needed. Additionally, teachers and school staff will have access to mental health clinic staff for consultation, trainings, and workshops to ensure students are appropriately supported and referred to care. Schools will also receive support so they can respond to mental health crises without contacting 911 unnecessarily and avoid needless emergency room visits and hospitalizations. The 16 new satellite clinics build on the five existing mental health clinics that NYC Health + Hospitals already utilizes in the city’s public schools.

The new school-based mental health clinics are funded with $3.6 million from the Mental Health Continuum, a $5 million partnership between NYC Health + Hospitals, DOE, New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), and Advocates for Children announced as part of the Adams administration’s mental health agenda, “Care, Community, Action: A Mental Health Plan for New York City.” The clinics also received a total of $700,000 in grants from the New York state Office of Mental Health through the Mental Health Outpatient Treatment and Rehabilitative Service Program.

“The stress, isolation, and anxiety of the COVID-19 pandemic pushed mental health to the forefront of the conversation for so many of us,” said Mayor Adams. “By investing in student mental health and delivering services right where young people need them most — in our public schools — we are building upstream solutions that will help us build a healthier city.”

“Family and youth mental health are key components of our overall plan to support mental health for all New Yorkers,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “We are creating a layered approach to supporting young people adding these clinics in the Bronx and Brooklyn to a combination of other touch points including our TeenSpace initiative offering free tele-mental health services to young people. Thank you to all our partners making this work happen.”

“Youth mental health is at a critical point and these new clinical services are needed now more than ever, especially in our schools,” said NYC Health + Hospitals Deputy Chief Medical Officer and System Chief of Behavioral Health Omar Fattal, MD, MPH. “These satellite clinics will provide a critical access point for students to get timely access to mental health services both inside of schools and at outpatient clinics. We are grateful to our partners and the New York state Office of Mental Health for making this happen.”

“Our city’s public schools are proud to partner with NYC Health + Hospitals, the School Mental Health Program in the Office of School Health, and the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene on the Mental Health Continuum,” said DOE Chancellor David C. Banks. “Now, in its third year, over 50 schools in the South Bronx and Central Brooklyn have received access to expedited care for students struggling with mental health challenges through NYC Health + Hospitals clinics and Children’s Mobile Crisis Teams. Schools will also receive support to engage in whole school collaborative problem-solving, an approach to reduce challenging behavior, build skills, and strengthen relationships. We look forward to continuing this partnership and to building a stronger continuum of care to improve the provision of mental health services to students and families.”

“It will take all of us together to tackle our youth mental health crisis, and the expansion of school-based clinics is an important step to do just that,” said DOHMH Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan. “Reaching students where they spend so much of their time and supporting school staff will help improve access and reduce stigma. I look forward to continued work across agencies to create opportunities for the next generation to succeed.”

“In light of the concerning state of youth mental health in New York City, the Mental Health Continuum’s collaboration is a timely and crucial step in connecting students to essential mental health supports and services,” said Mayor’s Office of Community Mental Health Executive Director Eva Wong. “This initiative also recognizes the important role of teachers and school staff in supporting young people’s mental health by providing them with consultation, training, and psychoeducation. This marks a significant step in the city’s ongoing efforts to address mental health disparities and foster supportive environments to strengthen the mental health of youth and their families across the city.”

“This important multi-agency collaboration will expand access to mental health services to some of the New York City communities hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said NYC Health + Hospitals Director of Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health Growth and Strategy Jennifer Havens, MD. “We welcome the opportunity to reach kids and families where they are, when they need us.”

In addition to the 16 new school-based satellite clinics, an additional 34 schools will have access to rapid referrals for evaluation and treatment directly into NYC Health + Hospitals outpatient mental health clinics. In total, this program will serve over 20,000 students across 50 schools in the South Bronx and Central Brooklyn.

The 16 schools that will host mental health clinics were identified through an ongoing collaborative and data-driven effort to identify schools with the highest needs across the city, particularly schools without on-site mental health services or community partnerships with mental health clinics. This model aims to meet the needs of students with significant mental health challenges in the schools and neighborhoods with the highest rates of New York City Police Department school interventions, suspensions, and chronic absenteeism.

NYC Health + Hospitals will open mental health satellite clinics in the following schools throughout the next year:

The Bronx

Mott Hall III
S. X140 The Eagle School
Port Morris School of Community Leadership
PS 035 Franz Siegel
PS 063 – Author’s Academy
PS 277X
South Bronx Preparatory

Brooklyn

All City Leadership Secondary School
Brighter Choice Community School
Evergreen Middle School for Urban Exploration
Kappa V: Knowledge and Power Preparatory Academy
MS K394
Parkside Preparatory Academy
PS 041 Francis White
PS/IS 384 Frances E Carter
The Brooklyn Green School

The Adams administration has taken repeated action to tackle the youth mental health crisis. Last year, Mayor Adams announced that the city launched TeenSpace, a free tele-mental health service available to all New York City teenagers, between the ages of 13 and 17 years old, that allows teenagers to connect with a licensed therapist through phone, video, and text. In the three months of operation, TeenSpace has served over 6,000 youth across the five boroughs.

In addition to the city’s work supporting New York City youth in crisis through DOHMH and NYC Health + Hospitals programming, DOE has devoted significant resources to combatting students’ addiction to social media and the many resulting harms, including by responding to cyberbullying occurring outside of class, providing counseling for anxiety and depression, and developing curricula about the effects of social media and how to stay safe online.

In March 2023, the Adams administration launched “Care, Community, Action: A Mental Health Plan for New York City,” a mental health plan focused on improving the mental health of children and young people. Following the plan’s release, the city convened more than 150 advocates, researchers, technologists, mental health providers, community-based organizations, and caregivers, in partnership with New York City youth, to lay out potential pathways for action to protect the mental health of children and youth. The convening provided the recommendations that built the foundation for the city’s social media action plan, announced in February 2023, that outlined New York City’s commitment to protect the mental health of young New Yorkers and empower them to use these technologies in ways that are less harmful. Mayor Adams also announced a lawsuit against companies that operate five social media platforms — TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and YouTube — for fueling a nationwide mental health crisis among young people, joining hundreds of school districts from across the country in filing litigation seeking to force tech giants to change their behavior and to recover the costs of addressing this public health threat.

MAYOR ADAMS CELEBRATES LARGEST ALL-AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROJECT IN 40 YEARS, CITY’S FIRST SOCCER-SPECIFIC STADIUM MOVING FORWARD AFTER WILLETS POINT PHASE 2 VOTE

Willets Point’s 23 Acres of Land Will Include All-Affordable Housing Project, New Hotel, Over 150,000 Square Feet of New Public Open Space, and Soccer Stadium

Willets Point Development Will Add Over $6 Billion in Economic Impact, Create Over 14,000 Construction Jobs and More Than 1,500 Permanent Jobs

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today celebrated a historic win for affordable housing and economic development in the city of New York after the City Council voted to approve the Willets Point Phase 2 development as part of the Uniform Land User Review Procedure (ULURP). The complete Willets Point Transformation — which Mayor Adams announced in November 2022 with the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), New York City Councilmember Francisco Moya, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, the New York City Football Club (NYCFC), and Queens Development Group (QDG) — will feature the largest 100-percent affordable housing project in 40 years and include more than 150,000 square feet of new public open space, over 20,000 square feet of retail space, a 250-key hotel, and the city’s first soccer-specific stadium that will be privately financed by NYCFC.

The project is expected to generate over $6 billion in economic impact over the next 30 years — creating over 14,000 construction jobs and over 1,500 permanent jobs. Mayor Adams’ vision for the transformation of Willets Point builds on core goals in his “Rebuild, Renew, Reinvent: A Blueprint for New York City’s Economic Recovery” and “Housing Our Neighbors: A Blueprint for Housing and Homelessness,” including leveraging neighborhood infrastructure investments to catalyze equitable community development and creating housing opportunities in neighborhoods with strong access to jobs, transit, schools, parks, and other amenities.

“Housing is the goal — and with today’s City Council vote, I’m proud to say that we just scored the goal of the decade,” said Mayor Adams. “We’re bringing 2,500 affordable housing units, 150,000 square feet of public open space, thousands of good-paying jobs, and the city’s first soccer-specific stadium to a neighborhood in Queens that used to be known for its junkyards. We’re building a brand-new community out of the ‘Valley of Ashes’, and we couldn’t have done it without all our partners, including Councilmember Moya and the rest of the City Council, Borough President Richards, NYCFC, Queens Development Group, our union members, and everyone living in Willets Point who made their voices heard and demanded a new future for themselves. After today’s vote, we’re one step closer to delivering that future.”

“This is one of the most ambitious projects the city has undertaken in decades, and we are proud to finally make good on creating an entirely new neighborhood at Willets Point,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “I am thrilled that the City Council has approved the ULURP for Willets Point Phase 2. Thank you to Councilmember Moya, Borough President Richards, Queens Development Group, NYCFC, and the hard-working team at NYCEDC for delivering this historic victory for New Yorkers.”

“History has been made today for Queens and New York City as this monumental project receives approval from the City Council, and we take another major step forward in delivering one of the most ambitious developments in the country and a model for public-private partnership” said NYCEDC President and CEO Andrew Kimball. “Thanks to Mayor Adams’ leadership, the tireless work of Councilmember Francisco Moya, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, and other elected officials, and our partners in the private sector, New York City will forever be transforming the ‘Valley of Ashes’ into a brand-new neighborhood with the largest affordable housing project in 40 years, much needed open space and infrastructure, a privately financed soccer-specific stadium, and thousands of quality jobs. Willets Point will truly become one of the premier sports and entertainment hubs in New York City, and NYCEDC is enormously proud to have played a role in realizing this vision.”

“I am incredibly excited and proud to have joined my colleagues on the City Council vote in supporting Willets Point Phase II Redevelopment Plan,” said New York City Councilmember Francisco Moya. “This once-in-a-generation project will create a community like no other in New York City, with access to all-affordable housing, a brand-new public school, and New York City’s only soccer-specific stadium. These amenities will support our children’s future, boost the local economy, and benefit our hardworking brothers and sisters in labor who are the backbone of this city. I am thrilled that the residents of my district and across the city will soon experience the completed Willets Point Development Project, and I am grateful to my fellow colleagues in government for recognizing the countless benefits this project will bring.”

Construction for the first phase of 100-percent affordable housing at Willets Point is already underway, a year ahead of schedule. In December 2023, Mayor Adams and city officials broke ground on the first 880 units of affordable housing, which are expected to be completed by the end of 2026. The next housing development to commence construction will be an additional 220 affordable homes set aside for low-income seniors.

The Willets Point Phase 2 project will deliver the remaining 1,400 of the 2,500 total affordable homes, as well as a new 250-key hotel, and a soccer-specific stadium that will be the permanent home of NYCFC. The 25,000-seat stadium will be the first privately-financed major league stadium in New York City in generations. No new parking will be created for the stadium. Instead, NYCFC will utilize parking at Citi Field on match and event days based on an agreement with the New York Mets. Additionally, the stadium will be the first fully-electric stadium in Major League Soccer and the first fully electric professional sports stadium in New York City. The stadium is expected to be completed and operational by the 2027 MLS Season. Phase 2 will also deliver key infrastructure that builds upon the work of Phase 1 and enables Willets Point to grow and function as the city’s newest neighborhood.

With the creation of a new soccer-specific stadium, Willets Point will become the city’s premier sports hub, with the New York Mets’ Citi Field and U.S. Tennis Association’s Billie Jean King National Tennis Center both within walking distance of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s Mets-Willets Point subway and Long Island Rail Road station.

The proposal was first recommended in 2018 by the Willets Point Task Force, a group of Queens stakeholders represented by state and local elected officials; Community Boards 3, 4, and 7; economic development groups; community-based organizations; and local civic associations. Over four months, the task force identified community priorities and produced recommendations for the city-owned land, including a scenario that reimagined the neighborhood as a hub for a new soccer stadium with public facilities, programmed open space with active and passive uses, and new homes at a range of affordability levels.

The 2,500 100-percent affordable homes will cover seven buildings, including one with 220 homes for low-income seniors. Additionally, QDG will participate in HireNYC, a city program that connects local residents to jobs. They will seek to achieve high standards of environmental sustainability through either LEED Gold U.S. Green Building Council certification or Enterprise Green Communities.

New York City has made a significant investment to support the development of the Willets Point neighborhood, including the remediation of close to 200,000 tons of contaminated soil and infrastructure investments, such as new streets, signage, sidewalks, curbs, trees, lights, draining, stormwater management, water mains, hydrants, sewers, and utilities. Additionally, because Willets Point is in a flood-prone area, the city is taking a holistic approach that centers on resiliency by raising the new streets and buildings out of the 100-year floodplain to protect from future storms.

“There is only one way to solve a severe housing crisis and that’s with big, bold solutions like building a brand-new neighborhood with the largest affordable housing project in decades. Today isn’t just a victory for Willets Point, it’s a victory for every person who has struggled to find affordable housing in New York City,” said New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development Commissioner Adolfo Carrión Jr. “We’re going to solve this housing crisis because in this city we say ‘yes’ — ‘yes’ to housing in our neighborhoods, ‘yes’ to economic opportunities, and ‘yes’ to a brighter future.”

“This site will soon be transformed into a hub for economic growth and job opportunities, alongside thousands of new affordable homes for New Yorkers,” said New York City Housing Development Corporation (HDC) President Eric Enderlin. “HDC is proud to partner with the city on developments like Willets Point as we seek to advance bold solutions that address the housing crisis and strengthen our local economy.”

“This is a transformative project that, with today’s approval, will allow great planning to turn into great results, and deliver thousands of income-restricted affordable homes, billions of dollars in economic activity, good jobs, open space, and a new stadium that will benefit New Yorkers for decades to come,” said New York City Department of City Planning Director and City Planning Commission Chair Dan Garodnick.

“DDC is always very active in Queens and has close to $1 billion in infrastructure work taking place throughout the borough, installing new storm sewers, adding new green infrastructure, and upgrading streets and public spaces,” said New York City Department of Design and Construction (DDC) Commissioner Thomas Foley. “An incredible project like this deserves the best infrastructure we can deliver, and DDC is ready to take on whatever work is necessary to complete the city’s newest neighborhood in Willett’s Point.”

“DEP’s project engineers have done tremendous work in building new storm sewers and water mains to support this community,” said New York City Department of Environmental Protection and Chief Climate Officer Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala. “This new underground infrastructure is built to last for more than a century and will benefit more than just Queens — it will also keep New York harbor waters clean by adding sewer capacity and reducing combined-sewer overflows during storms.”

“I am grateful for Councilmember Moya’s steadfast leadership and unrelenting tenacity to bring this project to reality; he has known from day one the power soccer has to bring a community together,” said New York City Football Club Vice Chairman Marty Edelman. “Without our fans and partners like Councilmember Moya, Council Speaker Adams, and the entire City Council, our Club would not be able to make good on a promise we made ten years ago to build New York City’s first-ever soccer-specific stadium in the five boroughs. Today’s City Council vote gets us one step closer to bringing this promise to life in Queens — the World’s Borough will be our home for The World’s Game.” 

“Thanks to the leadership of Mayor Adams, Councilman Moya, Speaker Adrienne Adams, Borough President Donovan Richards, Andrew Kimball, Adolfo Carrion and so many others we get to cement the future of Willets Point as a vibrant neighborhood with affordable housing at its core,” said Jeff Blau, CEO, Related Companies, and Scott Wilpon, partner, Sterling Equities, on behalf of Queens Development Group. “Together, we are going to create 2,500 units of affordable housing – desperately needed homes for families and seniors that will stand for generations. We are going to have a neighborhood in a place that was once a maze of unpaved roads featuring the city’s first soccer-specific stadium. We’re going to finally have a community.”

“Today’s City Council approval of the Willets Point Phase II Redevelopment Project is an essential step forward to bringing well-paying union construction jobs to the hard-working New Yorkers in this often-overlooked area of Queens,” said Gary LaBarbera, president, New York City and New York State Building and Construction Trades Council. “Our members look forward to contributing to this vital initiative, providing family-sustaining wages and supporting their path to the middle class. We are happy to welcome the privately-financed NYCFC stadium to our community, along with the economic promises and the community investment the Club will bring.”

“The Willets Point redevelopment stands at the intersection of the present we’re in now and the future we hope to build for this community,” said Manny Pastreich, president, SEIU 32BJ. “Creating high quality jobs with prevailing wage and benefit standards coupled with affordable housing and a new soccer stadium is the kind of revitalization this area has been waiting for and we’re proud to support. We congratulate NYCFC and Related on their project’s approval. Our members can’t wait to cheer on their home team right here in Queens!”

“The approval by the New York City Council of New York City FC’s new world-class stadium is another historic step for Major League Soccer as we continue to build the sport in North America,” said Don Garber, commissioner, Major League Soccer. “Congratulations and a heartfelt thanks to The City Football Group, New York City FC’s supporters, Mayor Adams, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, Councilman Francisco Moya, and everyone who worked so hard over the years and believed in this project.”

“As an original member of the Willets Point Task Force and a strong advocate for this Redevelopment Project, I am elated by the City Council’s vote today to approve the project and complete the ULURP process,” said Thomas J. Grech, resident and CEO, Queens Chamber of Commerce. “This community investment plan by NYCFC and Queens Development Group is a major win for the Queens neighborhood and business community. I applaud their hard work with teammates like Mayor Adams and Councilmember Moya, and I look forward to working with them in the future as they build New York City’s first soccer-specific stadium and welcome new jobs and businesses into the area.”

“Today’s New York City Council approval ensures that Willets Point will be a revitalized community with 100 percent affordable housing, a new school, reimagined public spaces, and a world-class soccer stadium,” said Chuck Apelian, vice chairman, Community Board 7 Queens. We welcome our new neighbors and soccer fans from all over the world to our community.”

MAYOR ADAMS UNVEILS NEW DETAILS OF SKYLINE-SHAPING OFFICE TOWER, BOLSTERS ONGOING RESURGENCE OF MIDTOWN MANHATTAN

Vornado, Kenneth Griffin, and Rudin Advance Plans for 62-Story, State-of-the-Art Office Tower With 1.8 Million Square-Feet of Office Space, New Public Concourse

With Citadel and Citadel Securities as Anchor Tenants, Tower Will House More Than 6,000 Jobs

Mayor Adams Reveals Renderings of New Tower Expected to Be Completed by 2032

Builds on Adams Administration’s Landmark Progress Protecting Public Safety, Rebuilding New York City’s Economy, and Creating More Livable City

NEW YORK – At the Association for a Better New York’s (ABNY) Power Breakfast this morning, New York City Mayor Eric Adams today unveiled new details and renderings of a once-in-a-generation office tower at 350 Park Avenue that will be home to more than 6,000 jobs in Midtown Manhattan and further strengthens the city’s economic recovery. After filing an application with the New York City Department of City Planning, Vornado Realty Trust, Kenneth Griffin, and Rudin are advancing a new tower that will deliver 1.8 million square feet of commercial office space, a new public concourse, and more than $35.8 million for the city’s East Midtown Public Realm Improvement Fund. Additionally, the project will purchase excess development rights from St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Saint Bartholomew’s Church, contributing a combined $150 million for upkeep of these historic landmarks. The global investment firm Citadel and leading market maker Citadel Securities,a will serve as anchor tenants,occupying at least 850,000 square-feet for their new Manhattan offices. The project is expected to begin the city’s public review process early next year.

“Today, we are doubling down on our efforts to build a ‘New’ New York with a project that will help supercharge our economy and expand New York City’s iconic skyline,” said Mayor Adams. “Home to more than 6,000 jobs, this project will build on our continued efforts to energize Midtown Manhattan as the world’s most important business address and an economic engine for working-class New Yorkers. New York City has come back stronger than ever thanks to our focus on protecting public safety, rebuilding our economy, and making our city more livable.”

“We are thrilled to announce the details of a historic investment in Midtown, which will help further revitalize a crucial corridor of New York City,” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “Today’s announcement is an example of the public and private sectors working together to invest in communities, improve the public realm, and create new housing and economic opportunities. I am proud that we are continuing to deliver on our commitment to make New York City the best place to live and work for all New Yorkers.”

“The announcement of a new skyscraper on Park Avenue is tremendously exciting and another example of the city’s focus on Midtown as articulated in the ‘New’ New York action plan,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “From the Outdoor Dining program, to the rollout of containerized trash collection and M-CORE programs, to the ‘Get Sheds Down’ initiative, the Adams administration is advancing Midtown’s standing as the most important central business district in the world by creating live-work-play districts that include world-class offices for the modern worker and a dynamic public realm to engage New Yorkers and tourists alike.”

“This investment opens a new chapter for Midtown — and closes the book on those who predicted its demise,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “Midtown’s revitalization is being led by its public realm — including investments in Fifth Avenue, with the crown jewels of Central Park and Bryant Park at either end. Together, with our business improvement district and parks partners, we are reintroducing Fifth Avenue to the world and creating a vibrant live, work, play community for a new era.”

skyline-tower

The 62-story tower will include 1.8 million square feet of office space that shape the skyline of New York City. Credit: Foster + Partners

public-concourse

The 12,500 square foot public concourse will offer visitors social seating, green space, and art displays. Credit: Foster + Partners

As anchor tenants, Citadel and Citadel Securities’ workforce — currently 2,100 and growing — will occupy a significant portion of the tower, further cementing New York City’s position as the financial capital of the world.

Designed by leading architecture firm Foster + Partners, the tower will feature floor-to-ceiling glass, landscaped terraces, and a stepped configuration to create an iconic, distinctive skyscraper. Additionally, 350 Park will prioritize sustainable design through the use of a high-performance building envelope and resilient materials. The tower will also enhance the public realm on Park Avenue through a world-class public concourse. Occupying 12,500 square feet of the project’s ground floor along Park Avenue, the public concourse will feature green space, social seating, greater visibility of nearby landmarks, prominent art displays, and opportunities for local businesses.

Vornado, Kenneth Griffin, and Rudin’s multi-billion investment in this new 62-story office tower comes amid the broader resurgence of Midtown Manhattan following Mayor Adams’ commitment to reimagine Fifth Avenue as a more appealing district for residents, workers, and visitors. This commitment — which includes significant investments in the public realm, the launch of the Midtown South Neighborhood Plan to create new housing and economic opportunities in the area, and generational projects such as the $10 billion effort to replace and expand the Midtown Bus Terminal — has already helped revitalize one of New York City’s most important economic corridors. In 2023, Fifth Avenue added nearly 1,000 new, high-paying jobs and experienced a 20 percent increase in visitors. Additionally, the administration has launched several highly-successful Open Streets initiatives that have driven millions of dollars in additional spending to Midtown businesses during the holiday season and taken new steps to permanently reimagine Fifth Avenue as a pedestrian-friendly district.

Over his first two years in office, Mayor Adams committed $375 million to creating new public spaces, as well as launched “Chinatown Connections” to reimagine Chinatown’s Kimlau Square; “Broadway Vision” to deliver two new plazas, shared streets, and a two-way bike lane on Broadway; and “Dining Out NYC” to create better, cleaner, and more accessible sidewalks and roadway cafes.

“This state-of-the-art office tower further cements this administration’s commitment to a ‘New’ New York by fueling job creation and a resurgence of Midtown Manhattan,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation President & CEO Andrew Kimball. “This is further evidence that the market is responding to Mayor Adams’ economic development strategy, with a focus on improving quality of life and a willingness to partner with the private sector.”

“The unveiling of 350 Park Avenue is a strong signal about New York City’s ongoing economic resurgence and shows how smart planning pays dividends,” said New York City Department of Citywide Planning Director and Chair of the City Planning Commission Dan Garodnick. “By creating jobs, providing public space, and supporting historic landmarks, this project exemplifies our commitment to keeping Midtown Manhattan a compelling destination for workers, residents, and visitors alike and demonstrates the continued value of the East Midtown rezoning.”

“The Adams administration’s commitment to enhancing public spaces in Midtown is paying off,” said Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu. “From reimagining Fifth Avenue as a world-class pedestrian boulevard to building out Broadway Vision, we’re not only creating a more welcoming environment for New Yorkers, visitors, and businesses, but also instilling confidence in the private sector to invest in New York City’s core business districts.”

“New York City’s magnetic pull for business, culture, and innovation continues to be fueled by the Adams administration’s investment in reimagining our business districts,” said “New” New York Executive Director B.J. Jones. “From enhanced public realm and quality of life initiatives to sweeping zoning and housing policy reforms, the city and state, together with our private sector partners, are making New York City the best place to live, work, and play.”

Today’s announcement follows multiple successful efforts by the Adams administration to revive New York City’s economy following the COVID-19 pandemic and transform the city’s commercial corridors into 24/7 districts where people can both live and work. Released in December 2022, the “‘New’ New York: Making New York Work for Everyone” plan detailed 40 concrete proposals for creating durable and equitable economic growth, including recommendations for transforming Fifth Avenue into a world-class, pedestrian-forward boulevard. In the short time since Mayor Adams announced his commitment to re-imagine one of the most iconic streets in the world, Fifth Avenue has undergone a period of unprecedented investment. Only two commercial real estate sales, worth a total of $170 million, were completed in the corridor in the year prior to Mayor Adams’ commitment to transform Fifth Avenue, but the year afterwards saw a total of 10 sales worth $3.9 billion.

As a result of these initiatives and additional efforts by the Adams administration, New York City has recovered all of the private-sector jobs lost during the pandemic. To continue growing the city’s economy, Mayor Adams has launched a new, multi-pronged effort to connect New Yorkers with jobs and training opportunities as part of his “Jobs NYC” initiative; committed to growing the city’s “green-collar” jobs of the future through his Green Economy Action Plan; and broken ground on the city’s largest 100 percent affordable housing development in 40 years at Willets Point, more than a year ahead of schedule.

Today’s announcement builds on the Adams administration’s progress protecting public safety, rebuilding the city’s economy, and creating a more livable city for all New Yorkers. Over the last two years, the administration has remained focused on driving crime down through proactive strategies, including initiatives that have cracked down on auto thefts, combatted retail thefts, and invested over $500 million in preventing gun violence. As a result of these strategies and the work of the New York City Police Department (NYPD), overall crime has trended downwards in the first quarter of 2024, with month after month decreases. Moreover, following the deployment of 1,000 additional NYPD officers into the city’s public transit system, as well as another 800 NYPD officers focused on preventing fare evasion, overall crime in the transit system plummeted by 23.5 percent in March compared to the same period last year.

Mayor Adams has made improving quality of life a cornerstone of his administration by making the investments that have transformed New York into a cleaner, greener, and more livable city, including by laying out plans to tackle the city’s affordable housing crisis. After delivering record amounts of affordable housing in 2023, the Adams administration, just last week, won approval on the second phase of the Willets Point development, which will feature the city’s biggest all-affordable housing project in 40 years, as well a new hotel, over 150,000 square-feet of new public open space, and the city’s first soccer stadium. Additionally, just yesterday, a state budget agreement was announced that would give New York City new tools to create even more of the housing the city needs.

As a result of a deal announced by Governor Hochul and the New York State Legislature yesterday — including a new construction tax incentive to create affordable housing, utilizing vacant offices to convert into housing, a pilot of legal, safe basement and cellar apartments, and lifting the density cap for residential buildings — the Adams administration will now be able to help deliver more affordable housing across all five boroughs.

“I am excited to partner with Vornado and Rudin to build a new, iconic office tower for our growing team at the most sought-after address on Park Avenue,” said Kenneth Griffin, founder and CEO, Citadel. “The building will provide our colleagues with an extraordinary environment to collaborate, create, and deliver on behalf of our investors in Citadel and clients of Citadel Securities. The iconic building will have incredible light, 360-degree views, and spacious layouts in one of the leading financial centers in the world.”

“350 Park Avenue, anchored by two of the most successful financial firms of our time, Citadel and Citadel Securities, will reinforce New York City as the financial capital of the world and Park Avenue as the premier business boulevard,” said Steven Roth, chairman and CEO, Vornado Realty Trust. “Building on our track record of developing the very best office towers and creating world-class streetscapes, 350 Park Avenue will provide an unparalleled work environment with a grand civic expanse fronting Park Avenue. Our partnership with Ken Griffin and Rudin validates the quality of our development site and New York’s continued preeminence as a center for commerce.”

“The Rudin family is proud to partner with Kenneth Griffin, and Vornado to create this iconic skyscraper on Park Avenue,” said Bill Rudin, co-executive chairman, Rudin. “This landmark project is poised to leave an indelible mark on New York’s skyline, symbolizing New York’s endurance as the world’s leading financial center.”

MAYOR ADAMS LAUNCHES PILOT TO RAPIDLY CONNECT FAMILIES FLEEING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE WITH PERMANENT HOUSING

“Project Home” Will Provide Intensive Permanent Housing Search Assistance to Domestic Violence Survivors With Children Living in City Shelters

Advances Mayor Adams’ “Women Forward NYC” Initiative, 2024 State of the City Commitment to Make NYC a National Leader on Gender Equity

Mayor Adams Also Expands Eligibility for Supportive and Affordable Housing to Include Survivors of Domestic Violence

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Social Services (DSS) Commissioner Molly Wasow Park today announced “Project Home,” a pilot program to provide intensive, specialized housing search assistance to domestic violence survivors with children living in city shelters. Beginning with 100 families, Project Home will help domestic violence survivors find safe, permanent homes and reduce the amount of time spent in shelter. Launched in partnership with New Destiny Housing — a nonprofit that provides housing and services to domestic violence survivors and their families — the pilot is funded with a $300,000 grant from the NYC Fund to End Youth & Family Homelessness. Mayor Adams also today announced expansions to eligibility for supportive and affordable housing units for survivors of domestic violence, minimizing the amount of time survivors spend in shelter and significantly increasing the permanent housing options available to them. These eligibility expansions undo unnecessary bureaucratic rules that have historically made domestic violence survivors ineligible for New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) supportive housing or New York City Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) affordable housing and expands the pool of homes available to this vulnerable population.

“Everyone deserves to be safe in their relationships and live a life free of domestic and gender-based violence,” said Mayor Adams. “But for too many New Yorkers, home is no longer safe and, too often, domestic violence survivors end up in shelters as they are forced to leave their homes. Today, we are giving survivors hope with Project Home, a pilot program to provide housing assistance to domestic violence survivors living in shelter. We’re also announcing expanded eligibility for supportive and affordable housing for survivors, helping families move into permanent housing faster. This announcement builds on our work to deliver a safer city for all New Yorkers, especially domestic violence survivors, and is another commitment delivered from part of our ‘Women Forward NYC’ initiative — a more than $43 million investment that addresses the needs of women across the five boroughs.”

“For families that have experienced domestic violence, shortening the steps needed to secure a safe, stable home is critical,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “This new pilot will provide specialized support to those families and lessen the time spent in shelter before moving to permanent housing. As we continue to fight for a world free from domestic violence, we are taking action to support survivors today.”

“Domestic violence is one of the leading causes of homelessness for New York families entering the shelter system, further upending a survivor’s ability to heal and build community in a permanent home. To show the Adams administration’s commitment to tackling the issue of family homelessness head on, we set a goal of increasing the number of families with children existing shelter into permanent housing by 25 percent,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “I thank the Department of Homeless Services and New Housing Destiny, a trusted community partner, for supporting our goals to bring domestic violence survivors and their children in shelter back into local communities through housing search assistance.”

“We know that domestic violence is a primary driver of homelessness in New York City, and we recognize the critical importance of not only minimizing the amount of time survivors spend in temporary housing but ensuring that they are positioned for long-term stability,” said DSS Commissioner Park. “With Project Home, we are proud to partner with New Destiny Housing to test a new approach to connecting survivors in city shelters to the support they need to effectively navigate the housing process and acclimate to their new home as they continue to heal and recover. By concurrently working to expand access to supportive housing and affordable units for survivors, we are also increasing the stock of housing available to them which will further expedite connections to safe and affordable permanent housing.”

“We cannot over emphasize how important safe, stable housing is for domestic violence survivors trying to move forward from experiences of abuse,” said Mayor’s Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence (ENDGBV) Acting Commissioner Saloni Sethi. “We see daily how critical housing is to survivors’ ability to heal, and we are grateful to have a long-standing partnership with New Destiny, an organization that is unparalleled in its commitment to helping survivors access permanent housing. ENDGBV is excited that Project Home will build upon the success we had partnering with New Destiny to offer housing navigation services to survivors through the city’s Emergency Housing Voucher Program, and through stationing their rapid rehousing program, HousingLink, at our Family Justice Centers. We are thrilled to extend this much-needed resource to families within the homeless shelter system who have experienced domestic violence. We look forward to supporting DSS and New Destiny in furthering this work on behalf of survivors.”

“Access to safe, permanent housing is crucial to wellbeing,” said DOHMH Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan. “Everyone deserves a home and the work to build connections for neighbors with diverse needs – like Project Home – will help support a healthier New York City for all.”

One hundred families staying in New York City Department of Homeless Services (DHS) shelters will be randomly selected from the pool of eligible households, comprised of those in shelters as a result of domestic violence. The participating families will be directly connected to a specialized housing navigator — trained in the challenging dynamics of domestic violence as well as affordable housing — who will work closely with each participating family to quickly secure permanent housing. They will identify appropriate apartments from trusted landlords, advocate on behalf of the family with landlords and brokers, and assist with applications, with the goal of minimizing the amount of time each family spends in shelter.

To ensure families remain stably housed for the long term, this pilot will include an aftercare coordinator to provide light-touch services after families move out of shelter. These light-touch services will include financial coaching; connecting families to new doctors, schools, childcare, and other resources in their new neighborhood; and linking families to counseling to help survivors recover from the traumas of homelessness and domestic abuse. The aftercare coordinator will also assist families in obtaining or maintaining government benefits. Aftercare services will be available to families for up to one year after they move into their new home and are supported by a grant from The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust.

Currently, residents of New York City Human Resources Administration (HRA) Domestic Violence Shelters are ineligible for HPD units, which are set aside for New Yorkers experiencing homelessness, as eligibility is based strictly on stays in DHS shelters. To eliminate this unnecessary discrepancy between the two systems and expand access to affordable housing for a vulnerable population, DSS and HPD will allow clients in HRA shelters to apply directly for these units, ultimately shortening their stays in shelter. Additionally, in partnership with DOHMH, DSS will expand eligibility for city-supportive housing, which currently provides rental assistance and on-site supportive services to individuals and families struggling with homelessness and serious behavioral health challenges, to also include survivors of domestic violence and their families. These families will have access to on-site services to help them maintain stability.

“New Destiny’s work providing federal Emergency Housing Vouchers to domestic violence survivors showed how effective housing navigation is as a tool for quickly and efficiently moving homeless families into stable housing. We’re excited to partner with the city to pilot these services for 100 survivors and their families in the shelter system so they can find permanent homes with the aftercare support they need to stay housed and rebuild their lives,” said Nicole Branca, executive director, New Destiny Housing. “We are also incredibly glad to see the city heed the calls of domestic violence survivors and advocates by allowing survivors to live in New York City supportive housing and expanding their access to HPD set-asides. These policy changes will end the cycle of housing instability and abuse for so many survivors and their children, including our most vulnerable families who have needed the additional supports that come with supportive housing.”

“The NYC Fund to End Youth & Family Homelessness believes all New Yorkers need the safety and dignity of a stable home. We applaud the City of New York for moving towards that north star by investing in rental assistance to help those of us who are struggling to get by to find permanent homes,” said John Kimble, senior advisor, NYC Fund to End Youth & Family Homelessness. “We stand in awe of the grit and determination of the families participating in Project Home, who are securing better lives for themselves and their children as they overcome enormous adversity. New York is safer and stronger when all its children and families have a place to call home, and the Fund is proud to be investing with the city in that future.”

“New Destiny Housing has created the right set of specialists on their team to help families experiencing homelessness due to domestic violence to navigate the challenges of finding housing, and then, in turn, to continue offering them support through the fragile transition to stabilize their lives,” said Tracy Perrizo, program officer, The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust. “Housing is foundational to both physical and mental health, and we are inspired by New Destiny’s success and Commissioner Park’s recognition of their model in her efforts to continue to improve housing and services for all New Yorkers.”

The initial phase of Project Home will last approximately one year, during which families will receive dedicated assistance from New Destiny Housing Navigators during the housing search and aftercare support once they move into their new homes. Following the placement of all families, DSS will conduct a robust evaluation of the results of the pilot, including its ability to shorten shelter stays, place families in new homes, and help those families stay stably housed. To ensure an accurate and rigorous analysis of the pilot, eligible families will be randomly assigned to Project Home and the results will be compared against the outcomes of other similarly situated families receiving standard housing placement assistance during the same time frame.

Project Home is one of the many programs included in “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, with the ambitious goal of becoming the most women-forward city in the United States. Supported through city dollars, private and public partnerships, academic institutions, and federal grant funding, the action 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.

“‘Project Home’ imagines a city where all women have safety and security,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “This new initiative will turn one of the most vulnerable moments in the lives of domestic violence survivors to one of empowerment by giving them unprecedented support to find permanent housing, accelerating the process of moving out of the shelter system. In my legal career, I have fought for housing and employment rights for domestic violence survivors and witnessed firsthand how economic independence helped women break free from the cycle of violence and stand gloriously in their new power. I look forward to partnering with Mayor Adams and Commissioner Park to support survivors of domestic violence across our city.”

MAYOR ADAMS’ STATEMENT IN RESPONSE TO FRUITFUL NEW YORK STATE BUDGET AGREEMENT

After Months of Collaboration and Advocacy, Major Adams Administration Priorities to Be Delivered in New York State Budget

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today released the following statement in response to the $237 billion Fiscal Year 2025 budget agreement reached by New York Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York state Legislature this afternoon:

“This budget will be a win for New Yorkers. Every day, this administration works to deliver on our vision that supports working-class families by protecting public safety, rebuilding our economy, and making this city more livable. As a result, crime is down, jobs are up, and our administration continues to deliver each day for everyday New Yorkers. But we’ve been clear that we need additional support from our partners in Albany to fully realize those goals and today we celebrate as most of our key asks were granted by our state partners.

“We want to thank Governor Hochul, Senate Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins, Assembly Speaker Heastie, and the Legislature for hearing us out and delivering today on a number of our administration’s and this city’s priorities in the state budget.

“From the beginning of this process, we carried our bold agenda to Albany to achieve several key requests, including legislation that will allow New York City to build the affordable housing New Yorkers need and deserve, regulatory authority to finally close down illegal smoke shops plaguing our streets, and funding for the unprecedented migrant crisis that New York City has overwhelmingly shouldered.

“We are thrilled that there has been agreement on most of our core priorities, including the major package of legislation to grow our affordable housing supply and protect tenants, municipal enforcement of illegal smoke shops, and $2.4 billion for migrant support. We will continue to fight for New Yorkers on crucial issues, especially preserving mayoral accountability as we advocate to support public school children and families and boost student test scores and graduation rates, while decreasing racial disparities.

“Today, we celebrate along with our colleagues in state government and look forward to our continued partnership to advancing the critical issues that working-class New Yorkers expect and deserve.”

MAYOR ADAMS’ STATEMENT FOLLOWING IRAN’S DRONE ATTACK ON ISRAEL

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams tonight released the following statement after Iran launched a drone attack against the State of Israel:

“New York City unequivocally stands with the State of Israel in the face of this direct attack and escalation by Iran. I’ve been briefed on the situation unfolding abroad and we pray for the safety of all in the region.

“As mayor of the largest Jewish population in the world outside of Israel, the significance of this attack for Jewish New Yorkers — many of whom have family in Israel right now — is not lost on me, especially less than 10 days before Passover begins.

“While there is no direct or imminent threat to New York City at this time, we have directed the NYPD to deploy additional resources to Jewish communities and houses of worship citywide out of abundance of caution to ensure that our communities have the resources they need to feel safe.

“Our administration has also begun outreach to both Jewish leaders and elected officials across the five boroughs to keep them apprised of the situation.

“Our intelligence and counterterrorism teams will continue to closely monitor the situation.”

MAYOR ADAMS, DOT COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ LAUNCH LOCKERNYC TO COMBAT PACKAGE THEFT AND REDUCE DELIVERY TRUCK TRAFFIC

Free, Public Delivery Lockers Available 24/7 on City Sidewalks

Will Allow New Yorkers to Receive Secure Package Deliveries

Pilot Program Aims to Reduce Number of Delivery Trucks on

Narrow Streets by Centralizing Delivery Locations

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez today launched LockerNYC, a free pilot program that will utilize lockers installed on public sidewalks throughout multiple boroughs to allow New Yorkers to receive secure package deliveries. Statistics show that 80 percent of households in New York City receive at least one delivery per week and 20 percent receive four or more deliveries — and, each day, 90,000 packages are reported stolen or lost in transit in New York City, as many buildings lack secure areas for package deliveries. The LockerNYC pilot includes seven units, each with the capacity to securely hold 25 packages at a time and has the potential to further expand this year. The pilot is open to the public and the LockerNYC program will be available across multiple delivery carriers. New Yorkers can sign up for free and manage orders online.

“We are taking on porch pirates and cutting down on emissions by unwrapping LockerNYC, our pilot program that will combat package theft and reduce delivery truck traffic in our city,” said Mayor Adams. “Reducing crime, fighting climate change, and providing a convenience to New Yorkers all at the same time is a package deal that New Yorkers can be proud of. This is a part of our broader efforts to reimagine how New Yorkers get their goods and services, including through our forthcoming Department of Sustainable Delivery that was announced in this year’s State of the City.”

“COVID changed the way we shop; now, 80 percent of us get one package delivered per week,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “This administration is taking a holistic look at green solutions for this very modern challenge with delivery lockers and microhubs, and using our waterways, rather than trucks, to get goods where they need to go. The green revolution starts here.”

“New York City is leading the way on making deliveries greener, safer, and more secure,” said DOT Commissioner Rodriguez. “The LockerNYC initiative will help cut down on package thefts and reduce the number of big delivery trucks clogging up our streets.”

In addition to providing a convenience to New Yorkers, the LockerNYC pilot program also aims to reduce delivery truck traffic by consolidating deliveries at central locations. It builds upon recent administration efforts to reimagine deliveries in New York City, restructure freight distribution, and create a sustainable last-mile delivery system for getting goods where they need to go. In his State of the City address this year, Mayor Adams proposed establishing the New York City Department of Sustainable Delivery to harness the potential of non-traditional transportation modes like e-bikes, mopeds, cargo bikes, and more while prioritizing worker and public safety. Additionally, last month, the city released new rules to allow for more deliveries to occur using electric cargo bikes, a safer and more sustainable alternative to large delivery trucks. Likewise, DOT previously announced a local delivery hub pilot program to reduce negative environmental and safety effects of truck deliveries that will launch this year. DOT is also expanding the number of dedicated loading zones for deliveries across the five boroughs, with over 2,000 loading zones installed in the past two years.

LockerNYC setups can currently be found at:

Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn — 830 Lafayette Avenue, outside Ideal Food Basket grocery
Canarsie, Brooklyn — 1380 Rockaway Parkway
East Flatbush, Brooklyn — 1086 Brooklyn Avenue, outside Ideal Food Basket grocery
Prospect Lefferts Gardens, Brooklyn — 2036 Bedford Avenue, outside Ideal Food Basket grocery
Sunnyside, Queens — 47-01 49th Street, outside the Cosmopolitan Houses apartments

LockerNYC lockers will soon arrive at these locations:

Bushwick, Brooklyn — 72-80 Wyckoff Avenue, outside Key Food
Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan — 778 9^th Avenue at West 52^nd Street

Locations were selected based on land use, concentration of buildings lacking mail or package rooms, and New York City Police Department package theft data, among other criteria. Other priorities in the selection process included providing adequate circulation space, avoiding conflicts with street furniture, ensuring smooth pedestrian flow, and avoiding the obstruction of windows, fire escapes, or public art. Each locker location is visibly equipped with two security cameras, LED lighting, and anti-theft mechanisms on locker compartments. The lockers will be operated and maintained by GoLocker, the vendor selected by the city for this initiative, and GoLocker will oversee customer support and overall management of the technology.

The pilot will be in place for a year, with the potential to be extended upon evaluation, allowing DOT to test and evaluate the technology and delivery model. DOT welcomes additional program partners to foster a culture of best practices for safety and efficiency. DOT will collect anonymized data on locker usage to assess the overall success of the pilot and the potential for expansion. Shared use locker programs have proven successful in other cities, yielding significant reductions in delivery vehicles travel distances, the amount of time delivery vehicles dwell at a curb, failed deliveries, carbon dioxide gas emissions released, and congestion. A delivery locker pilot in Seattle found that carrier lockers can reduce the amount of time delivery trucks dwell at the curb by as much as 33 percent and reduce delivery times by as much as 78 percent.

“As package theft continues to adversely impact our communities, LockerNYC is an innovative solution that will provide every New Yorker with the safe and secure deliveries they deserve,” said New York State Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn. “Moreover, free public delivery lockers will reduce truck traffic, making our commutes easier and the environment greener. I applaud Mayor Eric Adams and DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez for this pivotal program to protect our packages as we continue working to combat theft.”

“LockerNYC is a vital tool to reduce crime and speed up our deliveries,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “It addresses one of the most common crimes in our city: package theft. Ever since online purchasing skyrocketed during the pandemic, at least two-thirds of New Yorkers have reported having a package stolen. This pilot program ensures that we all have a secure and convenient option to receive packages. The lockers will also reduce traffic congestion by allowing delivery vehicles to drop off packages at centralized locations instead of going door-to-door. This embodies Mayor Adams’ plan to use the latest technology for fast and efficient last mile delivery, so that we all get our packages in a New York minute.”

MAYOR ADAMS CELEBRATES HOUSING MILESTONE AHEAD OF SCHEDULE, WITH PLANS TO REDEVELOP BRONX LIBRARY INTO NEW FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOUSING AND STATE-OF-THE-ART LIBRARY

Announced in State of the City, ‘24 in 24’ Plan Aims to Advance 24 Affordable Housing Projects on Public Sites in 2024, Creating or Preserving Over 12,000 Units of Housing

Adams Administration Has Already Advanced Housing on More Than Twelve Public Sites in 2024, Moving Ahead of Schedule on Mayor Adams’ ‘24 in 24’ Plan

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today celebrated a major milestone towards the city’s ambitious “24 in 24” plan to advance 24 affordable housing projects on public sites in 2024 that will ultimately create or preserve over 12,000 units of housing. Delivering on a key promise in Mayor Adams’ State of the City address, the city has already advanced — ahead of schedule — housing on more than half the public sites it committed to moving forward on in 2024. The 13^th development, the Grand Concourse branch of the New York Public Library, today started community engagement for an affordable housing project and a new state-of-the-art library. The new development will create much-needed family-friendly housing for Bronx residents and further the administration’s commitment to addressing the housing shortage crisis by building more affordable housing across the five boroughs.

“To meet the moment of addressing a historic housing crisis, we must use every tool possible to create more affordable housing in our city and build our way towards a better future,” said Mayor Adams. “Our administration continues to innovate and explore every possible piece of land in our city, especially on our public sites, to create or preserve more housing units. Thanks to a multi-agency collaboration, we are already more than halfway on delivering critically needed housing to New Yorkers through our ‘24 in 24’ plan. While the city is doing its part, we continue our call on our partners in Albany to fulfill their duty and pass legislation needed to allow our administration to build the housing New Yorkers need.”

“The Adams administration is dedicated to solving our city’s decades-long housing crisis, and reaching the halfway milestone of activating 24 public sites for housing, well ahead of schedule, is proof of that dedication,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “Delivering on a vision born in Women Forward NYC to provide even more resources families need to thrive, the New York Public Library’s Grand Concourse branch will also bring Bronx families closer to quality, affordable housing and state-of-the-art library facilities.”

“I’m excited to see the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development and New York Public Library kick off community engagement for the ultimate redevelopment of the Grand Concourse library into a future, state-of-the-art library that also provides much needed affordable housing within the community,” said Executive Director for Housing Leila Bozorg. “Not only does this mark the halfway point of the mayor’s commitment to advance 24 public site developments in 2024, but it’s also a great example of how public sites can be reimagined to meet the ever-growing and changing needs of our neighborhoods.”

“We can solve the housing crisis and we can enrich neighborhoods — it just takes creativity, unwavering dedication to our communities, and more efforts like the Grand Concourse library project,” said New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) Commissioner Adolfo Carrión Jr. “Together, with the New York Public Library and the Bronx community, we’re transforming a 65-year-old library branch into a modern, vibrant facility alongside new affordable apartments. We’re not just here to stem a crisis, we’re here to create homes and make life better for all New Yorkers.”

“Housing is not a luxury,” said New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) Chief Executive Officer Lisa Bova-Hiatt. “Housing is a fundamental need and directly affects the quality of life for all New Yorkers. We commend Mayor Adams and his administration for their ongoing dedication and work in advancing projects to preserve and build new affordable housing stock across New York City through the ‘24 in 24’ plan.”

“We need more housing everywhere right now in New York City, and through the ‘24 in 24’ plan, the Adams administration is taking action by turning city assets into housing for New Yorkers,” said New York City Economic Development (NYEDC) Corporation President & Chief Executive Officer Andrew Kimball. “NYCEDC is thrilled to be working alongside our partners in government and the private sector to achieve this ambitious housing goal and look forward to welcoming families to this former library turned housing complex along the Grand Concourse in the near future.”

“Libraries offer a wealth of opportunities in free and welcoming spaces that support the needs and dreams of New Yorkers,” said New York Public Library President Anthony W. Marx. “The New York Public Library is looking forward to working with the city on this innovative proposal to build a state-of-the-art Grand Concourse branch that can adapt and evolve with the community. We are excited to be part of a project that includes 100 percent affordable housing at a time when our city is in the midst of a housing crisis. This process is just in the beginning stages, and we are eager to hear from our patrons about what they would like to see at their new library and look forward to updating everyone on what we learn.”

The existing library branch was built in 1959 and has served the Bronx for 65 years. The redevelopment of the site will be initiated through a competitive process that asks developers to respond to a set of goals and guidelines that reflect community priorities. HPD has launched a webpage with additional information about how community members can get more engaged in the process. HPD and the New York Public Library will begin outreach in the community this spring. In the meantime, the library branch will remain open to serve the public until construction begins.

Prior to today’s announcement the administration has advanced housing on 12 other public sites:

Brooklyn:

516 Bergen Street: HPD selected a development team to build approximately 275 units.
Bay View Houses: NYCHA is preserving 1,610 units through the Permanent Affordability Commitment Together (PACT) program.
Coney Island Houses: NYCHA started community engagement ahead of a resident vote to preserve 530 units.
Unity Towers: NYCHA started community engagement ahead of a resident vote to preserve 192 units.

Bronx:

351 Powers Avenue: HPD selected a development team to build approximately 110 units.
1388-1400 Stebbins Avenue: HPD released a Request for Proposals (RFP) to build approximately 110 units.
Bronx River Addition: NYCHA commenced resident voting on preserving 133 units.

Manhattan:

2460-2478 Second Avenue: NYCEDC selected a lead consultant for the education and engagement campaign for the Harlem African Burial Ground Memorial where the city is advancing approximately 730 units.
4095 9th Avenue: HPD launched community engagement to build approximately 570 units.
Campos Plaza II: NYCHA is preserving 224 units through the PACT program.

Queens:

5421 Center Boulevard: HPD launched community engagement to build approximately 850 units.

Staten Island:

30 Canal Street: NYCEDC released an RFP seeking proposals to build approximately 550 units.

Today’s announcement also delivers on another key promise made in Mayor Adams’ State of the City speech with the ambitious goal of making New York City the most women-forward city in the United States. Unveiled in January 2024, “Women Forward NYC: An Action Plan for Gender Equity” invests more than $43 million in initiatives to help all women, including through additional place-based housing strategies, like co-located housing with library facilities, that support the needs of families.

Mayor Adams has taken bold steps to address the city’s severe housing crisis and achieve the administration’s moonshot goal of creating 500,000 homes over the next decade. The Adams administration introduced “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity” to add “a little more housing in every neighborhood.” City of Yes for Housing Opportunity is the most pro-housing set of zoning changes in New York’s history. These changes includes lifting arbitrary and costly parking mandates for new residential construction; implementing the Universal Affordability Preference, a bonus allowing roughly 20 percent more housing in developments, so long as the additional homes are affordable; developing more 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; and allowing homeowners to add accessory homes, like backyard cottages.

To accelerate housing production and deliver relief to New Yorkers, the Adams administration has also advanced a number of creative solutions, including laying out an office conversion accelerator to advance conversions more quickly; unveiling new proposed rules to streamline approvals for sustainable housing; and debuting several pilot programs to help fund the creation of accessory dwelling units, help move New Yorkers out of shelters and into renovated apartments, and help fuel mixed-income developments in neighborhoods across the city; among other innovative efforts.

“In a city where half of renters are rent-burdened and construction is not keeping pace with demand, we must be creative and utilize every square inch of available space to build more affordable housing. Redeveloping the New York Public Library Grand Concourse branch, part of the larger plan to advance two dozen affordable housing projects this year, puts us on track to deliver the affordable housing New Yorkers need,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Today, we begin the construction of family-friendly housing coupled with a state-of-the-art library, which will provide much-needed affordable units and create a community hub of activity and learning. The construction is a component of the moonshot goal of building 500,000 new housing units, and I am partnering with Mayor Adams to pass a budget in Albany with the policies we need to end the housing crisis and create more affordable housing for New Yorkers.”

“Confronting our city’s housing crisis requires creative solutions that utilize all possible avenues to create new homes,” said New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams. “That’s why in my State of the City address, I expressed support for building more housing on public land and in partnership with our city’s libraries. I’m encouraged by the city’s efforts to move forward on these projects that can reduce the housing shortage impacting all New Yorkers. Pairing new housing development with the renovation of library branches has proven to be successful, and the start of community engagement for this proposal to build new affordable housing with a state-of-the-art Grand Concourse library branch is another step forward. It is critical for the city to support library branches and improvements to them that help better serve New Yorkers.”

MAYOR ADAMS’ STATEMENT ON 4.8 MAGNITUTE EARTHQUAKE FELT IN NEW YORK CITY

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams released the following statement after New York City felt the impacts of a 4.8 magnitude earthquake:

“At approximately 10:23 AM, New York City felt the impact of a 4.8 magnitude earthquake. The epicenter was in Lebanon, New Jersey, about 50 miles from New York City. Our first responders are working to make sure New Yorkers are safe, and at this point, we do not have any reports of major impacts or injuries.

“I encourage all New Yorkers to check on your loved ones, and if you feel an aftershock, drop to the floor, cover your head and neck, and take cover under a solid piece of furniture, next to an interior wall, or in a doorway. So far no major life safety issues reported, no reported infrastructure issues, but we will continue our inspections of critical infrastructure.”

MAYOR ADAMS, CORPORATION COUNSEL HINDS-RADIX ANNOUNCE LAWSUIT AGAINST 11 COMPANIES ILLEGALLY DISTRIBUTING DISPOSABLE FLAVORED E-CIGARETTES

Announcement Builds on Administration’s Efforts to Work With Albany to Grant Local Authorities Power to Inspect and Shut Down Illegal Smoke Shops

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Corporation Counsel Sylvia O. Hinds-Radix today announced that the City of New York has filed a lawsuit against 11 wholesalers for their part in the illegal sale of flavored disposable e-cigarettes, the most popular vaping devices among middle school and high school youth. The 11 defendants — located in Brooklyn, Queens, Long Island, and upstate New York — are alleged to have distributed, and continue to distribute, youth-friendly-flavored disposable e-cigarettes — such as Strawberry Colada, Mellow Mint, Blueberry Energize, and Frozen Creamsicle — to retail vape and smoke shops, convenience stores, and directly to consumers over the internet, in violation of federal, New York state, and New York City law.

Today’s lawsuit seeks to block the defendants from further sales of these illegal items and seeks damages and penalties under state and city statutes. The lawsuit is a companion to the city’s pending 2023 federal lawsuit, in which two defendants in that case are already subject to court orders barring their sales and shipments of flavored e-cigarettes into the city.

“Part of protecting public safety means protecting the health of New Yorkers, including our most vulnerable — our children — and this administration is committed to enforcing the law when it comes to illegal vape sales,” said Mayor Adams. “This lawsuit will help hold 11 wholesalers accountable for their part in the illegal sale of flavored disposable e-cigarettes at a time when nicotine addiction among middle and high school youth is exploding. We will not stand by and allow this greedy, harmful, and openly illegal behavior to continue.”

“This lawsuit continues the city’s enforcement effort against companies that flout the law by selling flavored vapes to retailers and directly to consumers in the city,” said Corporation Counsel Hinds-Radix. “The City of New York will use every tool it can against businesses that are fueling the epidemic of e-cigarette use among young people and undermining public health.”

“Today’s action is one of many in a constellation to support and protect New Yorkers’ health, particularly young people,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “We know that young people are susceptible to marketing campaigns and products more akin to candy flavors. Thus, we are holding distributors accountable for selling illegal products and protecting our young people from these devices that often contain higher levels of nicotine than found in combustible cigarettes.”

“We will not standby when companies repeatedly put profits over the health of New Yorkers, especially our precious young people” said New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan. “Holding manufacturers and wholesalers accountable helps decrease the chances of these harmful products getting into the hands of young people. With this lawsuit, New York City is fighting for the health of all New Yorkers, especially the next generation of leaders and do-ers in our great city.”

“Our city remains committed to upholding equity and integrity, protecting public safety, and building a cannabis industry that benefits all New Yorkers,” said Cannabis NYC Founding Director Dasheeda Dawson. “The correlation between stores selling illegal nicotine vapes and those illegally selling cannabis products is undeniable. Shutting down these operators is not only essential for public safety, but also crucial for safeguarding the historic progress we’ve made thus far. Greater local enforcement authority granted from the state along with funding and technical assistance to accelerate the opening of state-approved cannabis retailers are critical to ensuring entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds have the level playing field needed to enter the industry legally and thrive.”

The lawsuit, filed in New York County State Supreme Court, builds on commitments made in Mayor Adams’ State of the City address earlier this year, where he recommitted to working with Albany to grant local authorities the power to inspect and shut down illegal smoke shops, while supporting the equitable growth of the legal cannabis market and ensuring justice-impacted individuals are not undermined through an illegal market.

Many e-cigarettes provide nicotine levels far exceeding those of conventional cigarettes. Additionally, federal health authorities, such as the U.S. Surgeon General and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), say youth-friendly flavors in e-cigarettes tempt kids to “vape” high levels of nicotine. Cartoon character packaging on e-cigarettes targeted at young people has also contributed to the epidemic of nicotine addiction among middle and high school youth.

Between 2017 and 2019, e-cigarette use among young people nearly doubled. In October 2022, the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released federal data from the 2022 National Youth Tobacco Survey finding that one in 10 middle and high school students across the country 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.

Consistent with the national trend, e-cigarette consumption in New York City schools has climbed in recent years. The 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey by the CDC revealed that 15.2 percent of public high school students and 6.7 percent of public middle school students surveyed reported current use of electronic vape products.

In January 2020, the FDA banned the marketing of flavored vape products unless companies could prove the benefits of the product outweighed its potential harms, a standard no flavored vape company has yet to meet. Additionally, New York City enacted a complete ban on the possession and sale of flavored e-cigarettes, whether at retail establishments or online in 2020. Further, flavored vapes are barred from retail sales in New York state, as well as in many other cities and states nationwide. The federal Prevent All Cigarette Trafficking Act also prohibits anything other than face-to-face sales of any e-cigarettes, unless the sales comply with all state and local laws of the jurisdiction in which the sale occurs. This is an impossibility in New York City where the New York City Administrative Code prohibits the sale of flavored disposable e-cigarettes entirely.

Despite these laws, the city’s investigations show that the 11 defendants sell and deliver flavored vapes to retail stores and consumers in New York City.

Today’s lawsuit seeks to prohibit these 11 defendants from further illegal sales that violate New York City’s Administrative Code and New York state’s Public Health Law. The city also seeks to recover monetary damages and civil penalties from the defendants.

EnvironMD Group LLC (2918 Avenue J, Brooklyn, and/or 1222 Avenue M, Suite 501, Brooklyn, NY) sold flavored Myle Meta Bar brand and Fume brand disposable e-cigarettes to a Brooklyn wholesaler.
GT Imports (23 West Mall, Plainview, NY) delivered unspecified brands of flavored disposable e-cigarettes with an approximate value of $1 million to various wholesalers located in New York City.
Kayla Wholesale, Inc., d/b/a The Vapery (366 N. Broadway, Suite Ph5, Jericho, NY) supplied flavored e-cigarettes, including STIG mango and STIG Lush Ice, to distributors and directly to consumers in the city over the internet.
KLCC Wholesale Inc. (452 E 99th Street, Brooklyn, NY) has purchased, from out-of-state distributors, large quantities of flavored disposable e-cigarettes, including Hyde and Breeze brands, presumptively for sale to city wholesalers or retailers.
V. Trading, LLC (32-30 62nd Street, Brooklyn, NY) purchased thousands of 7200 Elf Bar, Lost Mary, and Voopoo Drag Bar e-flavored disposable e-cigarettes from out-of-state dealers, presumptively for sale to city wholesalers or retailers.
Pioneer Distribution, Inc. a/k/a Wevapeusa.com a/k/a Seller Supreme LLC (1100 Coney Island Avenue, Suite 402, Brooklyn, NY) purchased hundreds of flavored Elf Bar disposable e-cigarettes from an out-of-state distributor and sells flavored disposable e-cigarettes over the internet to consumers in the city.
RZ Smoke Inc. (412 Hillside Avenue, New Hyde Park, NY) sold hundreds of flavored Air Bar flavored disposable e-cigarettes to a Brooklyn wholesaler.
Star Zone Inc. (3085B New Street, Oceanside, NY) delivered to retailers throughout the city approximately 14,000 flavored disposable e-cigarettes of various brands for which it was paid $650,000.
Urban Smoke Distributors (34-10 58^th Street, Woodside, NY) purchased thousands of flavored Elf Bar, Lost Mary, and Funky Republic disposable e-cigarettes from in-state and out-of-state distributors, presumptively for sale to city wholesalers or retailers.
Vape More Inc. and More LLC (638 Columbia St Ext., Latham, NY) sold Strawberry Banana, Strawberry Kiwi, Hawaii Punch, Juicy Peach, Blue Razz, Lemon Ice, and Lemon Mint Elf Bar, as well as Lost Mary flavored disposable e-cigarettes to Urban Smoke Distributors in the city.
Vape Plus Distribution Corp. a/k/a G&A Distribution (2578 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn, NY) purchased thousands of flavored disposable e-cigarettes from various distributors outside the city, presumptively for sale to city retailers.

New York City is using every tool available to protect New Yorkers — particularly young people — from dangerous, illegal vaping, tobacco, and cannabis products, while sending a clear message that anyone helping these illegal, unlicensed shops spread throughout the five boroughs will be held accountable. Coordinating with both city and state authorities, the Adams administration formed the New York City Sheriff’s Office Joint Compliance Task Force to Address Illegal Smoke Shops. The task force is dedicated to conducting enforcement against unlicensed establishments selling cannabis, cannabis-infused edibles, illegal vaping products, illegal cigarettes, and other illegal tobacco products.

Since the start of the Adams administration, the city has imposed more than $240 million in penalties, closed over 180 illegal businesses, conducted over 48,000 inspections, and issued 18,000 summonses to businesses illegally selling these types of products. Additionally, the city has sent letters to almost 500 landlords and owners of buildings across the five boroughs warning that they could be legally liable for the continued unlicensed sale of cannabis or tobacco products by their tenants.

“Big tobacco is working overtime to create a new generation of smokers by peddling illegal flavored e-cigarettes to our youngest New Yorkers,” said New York State Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal, Chair, New York State Assembly’s Committee on Housing. “However, with my legislation bolstering the city’s efforts to seize illegal vape products, coupled with the city’s efforts to sue e-cigarette wholesalers, we are sending a clear message to corporations that use our kids to pad their bottom lines: their health is not up for grabs. I applaud the city for holding these bad actors accountable for their dangerous and deceptive practices, and I will continue to push my legislation so it moves over the finish line this session.”

“Manufacturers and sellers of flavored disposable e-cigarettes are knowingly hooking a new generation on tobacco and creating a deadly cycle of addiction while breaking the law,” said New York State Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn. “I applaud Mayor Eric Adams and Corporation Counsel Hon. Hinds-Radix for taking action to combat this urgent threat to our public health. Every day that we do nothing, another child loses their parent to flavored tobacco products; and another child becomes addicted themselves. Tobacco usage among middle schoolers is on the rise, and data directly ties it to e-cigarettes, with ice cream and candy flavors targeting our youth. I’m committed to working with the Adams Administration to shut down the proliferation of illegal smoke shops and have introduced legislation in the New York State Assembly (A3907) to ban the sale of menthols and other flavored tobacco products state-wide, while imposing fines on anyone selling these deadly products.”

“Sale of flavored e-cigarettes is one of the many dangers illegal smoke shops pose, and I am partnering with Mayor Adams to end this scourge. In Albany, I introduced the SMOKEOUT Act to close the smoke shops immediately, and today we are launching a lawsuit to halt the distribution of the shop’s illegal vaping products,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “The smoke shops market flavored e-cigarettes to children, offering child-friendly flavors imitating sweets. The e-cigarettes contain nicotine, setting our children on a path to a lifetime of addiction. Many are flavored using diacetyl, which causes irreversible lung damage. Mayor Adams and I will not allow this to continue. Together, we will put an end to illegal smoke shops once and for all.”

“Identifying and going after distributors of harmful products is a powerful tool to stop illegal sales,” said New York City Councilmember Gale A. Brewer. “The law is perfectly clear that it’s illegal to sell Frozen Creamsicle vapes in New York City. This enforcement is critically important, and I thank the Mayor and Corporation Counsel for taking action.”

“I commend the administration for taking action against these companies that promote these disposable flavored e-cigarettes,” said New York City Councilmember Julie Menin, Chair, New York City Council’s Committee on Consumer & Worker Protection. “Too often, these are promoted to youths who are unaware of the risks of consuming these products. This sends a clear message that the city will not tolerate behavior that puts our youths at risk.”

MAYOR ADAMS LAUNCHES WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL TO UNLOCK NEW JOB OPPORTUNITIES FOR NEW YORKERS

Workforce Development Council Will Establish, Grow Public-Private Partnerships to Deliver on Training, Job Opportunities for New Yorkers

Rob Speyer Will Serve as Inaugural Chair of Workforce Development Council, Bringing Business Experience, History of Civic Service

Adams Administration Releases Two Requests for Proposals, Totaling $3.5 Million to Deliver Apprenticeship Opportunities to New Yorkers

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today 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. Chaired by Rob Speyer, CEO of Tishman Speyer, the new advisory board will be comprised of over 30 external stakeholders committed to rebuilding and strengthening the city’s talent and workforce development system for a post-pandemic labor market. The Workforce Development Council will make recommendations to the Mayor’s Office of Talent and Workforce Development (NYC Talent) and the New York City Workforce Development Board, which is responsible for stewarding between $60 million and $100 million in annual federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act funding.

Additionally, the Adams administration is today releasing two Requests for Proposals to advance its moonshot goal of connecting 30,000 New Yorkers to apprenticeships by the year 2030, a key commitment of Mayor Adams’ 2023 State of the City Address. An initial investment of $3.5 million — from Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act funding — will identify potential private-sector and non-profit partners that are interested in developing new apprenticeship programs and transforming existing talent development initiatives into structured apprenticeships.

“While our city has recovered all of the private-sector jobs lost during the pandemic, our recovery has not benefitted every New Yorker equitably. To change this, we need partners from every corner of our city to help build an economy with real pathways to family-sustaining careers,” said Mayor Adams. “The Workforce Development Council will tap expertise from business leaders, like Rob Speyer and dozens of others from across our city, to develop strategies and partnerships that will lead to real opportunities for New Yorkers. Additionally, our administration is investing millions in the nonprofits, unions, and other employers that will invest in our young people through apprenticeships.”

“I am proud to serve as the inaugural chair of the New York City Workforce Development Council,” said Rob Speyer, CEO, Tishman Speyer. “The Workforce Development Council’s work will build on Mayor Adams’ remarkable track record for private-sector job creation. I look forward to collaborating with my fellow members on this council to identify the most promising career paths for New Yorkers today and tomorrow.”

“The Workforce Development Council is an example of how the Adams administration is preparing the next generation of New Yorkers for the workforce,” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “For too long, communities have been excluded from the tremendous economic growth that New York has experienced. Our moonshot goal of connecting 30,000 New Yorkers to apprenticeships is an important step in changing that reality — and can only be done through partnership with the private sector. This Workforce Development Council, with its breadth of leadership and expertise, is a great example of how public private partnerships really come together to support all New Yorkers.”

“Since we released our ‘Pathways to an Inclusive Economy’ blueprint, this administration has been focused on delivering on our promises to connect more New Yorkers to jobs,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “With today’s announcement, we will strengthen the city’s Workforce Development Board and Workforce Development Council through increased private-sector leadership and will expand access to apprenticeships by making $3.5 million in funding available to nonprofits, employers, labor unions, and training providers. Thank you to leaders from across the city, including new Workforce Development Council Chair Rob Speyer, for your partnership in meeting these commitments.”

“This is a big win for our city’s future that has been years in the making. The New York City Workforce Development Council, led by its inaugural Chair Rob Speyer, brings together the city’s leading public and private sector stakeholders to develop robust talent pipelines so employers can hire the talent they need to thrive and New Yorkers, especially from economically-disadvantaged communities, can benefit from career success,” said Abby Jo Sigal, executive director, NYC Talent. “The launch of the Workforce Development Council and the two apprenticeship RFPs further solidifies the Adams administration’s commitment to placing talent at the center of the city’s economic strategy to realize an inclusive economy where prosperity is widely shared.”

The launch of the Workforce Development Council fulfills another key recommendation of the Adams administration’s Future of Workers Task Force, which created “Pathways to an Inclusive Economy: An Action Plan for Young Adult Career Success,” a blueprint to bolster the city’s talent ecosystem. This new council and the creation of new apprenticeship opportunities also reflect Mayor Adams’ commitment to building an equitable and future-focused economy for working-class New Yorkers. To further this goal, the administration recently launched “Jobs NYC,” a multi-pronged effort to reduce barriers to economic opportunities and deliver workforce development services directly to communities across the five boroughs that are experiencing high unemployment. Earlier this year, Mayor Adams unveiled a first-of-its-kind plan to grow the city’s green economy and best position New Yorkers to benefit from the nearly 400,000 projected ‘green-collar’ jobs in New York City by 2040.

About Rob Speyer

Rob Speyer, CEO of Tishman Speyer, will serve as the inaugural chair of the Workforce Development Council. Rob Speyer has led the firm’s global expansion and diversification strategy, growing its assets under management to more than $65 billion and launching new business lines including housing, industrial, life science and venture investing. He is the chairman of the advisory board of the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City, first appointed by Mayor Bloomberg in 2006, reappointed by Mayor de Blasio in 2014, and most recently, reappointed by Mayor Adams. He is also co-chair of the Partnership for New York City and on the New York Jobs CEO Council.

“As both a school system and as a city, we are working to ensure bold futures for all New Yorkers,” said New York City Public Schools Chancellor David C. Banks. “There is tremendous talent in this town, and it requires partnership to provide opportunities to the next generation of leaders. These partnerships across the private sector and our city agencies will impact our communities for years to come.”

“The launch of the New York City Workforce Development Council is a milestone in our mission to unlock the economic potential of all New Yorkers,” said New York City Small Business Services Commissioner Kevin D. Kim. “By bringing together business leaders, educators, and unions, the Workforce Development Council is poised to take our city’s world-class talent to the next level and help train and hire the workers that will build the ‘City of Yes.’ I want to congratulate the new chair, Rob Speyer, and am excited to see what SBS and this new council can accomplish by working together.”

“In convening this new Workforce Development Council and releasing RFPs to create and support vital apprenticeship programs, Mayor Adams is again affirming his commitment to New York City’s working class by ensuring there are ample opportunities for all New Yorkers to obtain high-quality, good-paying jobs and economic stability,” said Department of Social Services Commissioner Molly Wasow Park. “We congratulate Rob Speyer on his appointment and look forward to working alongside the Workforce Development Council and our agency partners to reduce barriers to employment and connect our clients to gainful employment through the New York City Human Resources Administration’s Career Services.”

“As the agency that oversees the Summer Youth Employment Program, Ladders for Leaders, Work, Learn & Grow, and other workforce initiatives, we are excited about this new opportunity to cultivate private-public partnerships and connect everyday New Yorkers to employers and meaningful careers,” said New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) Commissioner Keith Howard. “The investment in apprenticeship opportunities is part of Mayor Adams’ forward-thinking vision to position young adults for long-term economic success — and DYCD is proud to support the Workforce Development Council and offer programs in line with this goal.”

“The launch of the New York City Workforce Development Council and apprenticeship RFPs will bolster and strengthen the city’s talent and workforce development system by unlocking economic opportunities for all New Yorkers while also supporting employers to create the pipeline of talent they need to succeed,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) President & CEO Andrew Kimball. “NYCEDC is laser-focused on reducing barriers for New Yorkers of all backgrounds to access good-paying jobs, and we look forward to working with our partners in city government and the private sector on supporting equitable economic growth throughout the five boroughs.”

“The Workforce Development Council is designed to ensure that the city’ s private sector employers are directly engaged in the design and execution of employment training and workforce development, which will translate into jobs and upward mobility for New Yorkers,” said Kathryn Wylde, president and CEO, Partnership for New York.

“There is no city in the world that can match New Yorkers’ ambition, grit, and energy,” said Steven Rubenstein, chairman, Association for a Better New York. “Our workforce is our greatest asset. I applaud Mayor Adams for investing in the skills and education New Yorkers need to build a brighter future for themselves and their city. I’m proud to join the business, education, and civic leaders on the inaugural New York City Workforce Development Council.”

“The City University of New York is proud to be part of the New York City Workforce Development Council, and we thank Mayor Adams for creating a needed platform to foster increased public-private collaboration and, ultimately, to grow opportunities for New Yorkers to begin strong, sustaining careers,” said City University of New York Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez. “At CUNY, we have seen a correlation between a company’s involvement in talent development and the number of students they hire. We look forward to working with more employers on the council and beyond to ensure our students have a pathway to success.”

“Job creation has been a hallmark of the Adams administration,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “We recovered all the jobs lost in the pandemic a year earlier than projected, and now have the most jobs in city history. Today we take the next step in record job creation with the launch of the New York City Workforce Development Council, an innovative public-private partnership to provide New Yorkers with the skills they need in today’s workforce. This will put New Yorkers in family-sustaining jobs and allow them to stand on their own two feet, all without going into debt for an expensive education. This Workforce Development Council will be an engine of job growth, opening the door to economic opportunity for our fellow New Yorkers.”

“The creation of the Workforce Development Council is a critically needed development that will connect New Yorkers with job opportunities,” said New York City Councilmember Julie Menin. “Rob Speyer as chair will bring a wealth of experience, leadership, and vision that will certainly benefit this new Workforce Development Council and our city as a whole. I commend Mayor Adams for ensuring more is done to ensure New Yorkers have ample opportunities for jobs.”

“The newly launched Workforce Development Council will help to effectively link workforce development policy to economic development,” said Randy Peers, president and CEO, Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce. “The work of the Workforce Development Council will be essential in ensuring that all New Yorkers have access to career-oriented employment, and all sectors of the economy, including our small businesses, are tapping into highly skilled talent pools.”

“The Staten Island Chamber of Commerce is proud to be a part of Mayor Adams’ New York City Workforce Development Council,” said Linda Baran, president and CEO, Staten Island Chamber of Commerce. “Efforts like these are key to the post-pandemic recovery of our borough and our city as a whole. I look forward to working with the leaders on this Workforce Development Council to help drive our workforce and talent pipelines forward.”

“We applaud Mayor Adams and his administration for their ongoing partnership with industry and the launch of the Workforce Development Council,” said Kiersten Barnet, executive director, New York Jobs CEO Council. “We are delighted to serve the city and represent our private sector employers in this capacity and congratulate Jobs Council board member Rob Speyer for his continued leadership in public service.”

“With this conscious and strategic launch of the Workforce Development Council, Mayor Adams is doubling down on his investment into the people and workforce of New York City,” said Alysia Steinmann, metro New York office managing partner, Ernst & Young Global Limited. “As leaders committed to the city’s continued revitalization, we are thrilled to have Rob lead this group who will continue the work started by the Future of Workers Task Force. All New Yorkers deserve a city that works for and supports them, and we will work tirelessly to improve the current system that has, frankly, failed too many.”

“I am honored to be on the Workforce Development Council under the leadership of Rob Speyer and with Mayor Adams,” said Katy Gaul-Stigge, president & CEO, Goodwill NY/NJ. “Goodwill NY/NJ has been committed to creating equity and good jobs for all for over 108 years and I am honored to build on our work in New York City to transform workforce development for this moment.”

“The launch of the New York City Workforce Development Council marks a significant step towards enhancing economic opportunities and building a more accessible workforce for all New Yorkers,” said Grace Bonilla, president and CEO, United Way of New York City. “We’re looking forward to collaborating with the Council to create thousands of new jobs, create a more streamlined system that benefits employers and employees and continue to build a more equitable city where all New Yorkers can thrive.”

“The success of New York’s comeback depends on our ability to connect New Yorkers with the jobs of the future,” said Jen Hensley, senior vice president, corporate affairs, Con Edison. “At Con Edison, we are creating equitable pathways to sustainable, well-paying careers in clean energy. I want to thank Mayor Adams and Rob Speyer for their leadership in building this Workforce Development Council that will ensure New York remains a thriving and growing city that works for everyone.

“New Yorkers are no ordinary workforce,” said Liz Neumark, founder and chair, Great Performances. “They possess the will, passion and creativity to learn, blossom and succeed. Providing these new opportunities will unleash powerful and productive results.”

MAYOR ADAMS LAUNCHES FIVE-BOROUGH MULTIFAITH TOUR, BRINGING TOGETHER MULTIDENOMINATIONAL LEADERS TO DISCUSS ISSUES FACING THEIR COMMUNITIES

Mayor Adams Kicks Off Multifaith Tour Across NYC on Staten Island Today

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the city’s first “Five-Borough Multifaith Tour,” a series of conversations with clergy and faith leaders from across New York City to hear directly from them and discuss solutions to the serious issues facing their communities. The tour will begin today with a meeting of approximately 100 faith leaders from across Staten Island and continue with meetings in each borough over the coming weeks. This is the second series of multidenominational meetings convened by the Adams administration and builds on the city’s work to engage with and meet the needs of all faith communities.

“No matter the issue, New York City’s faith community is there for New Yorkers in need, working tirelessly to keep people fed, safe, and healthy, both mentally and physically,” said Mayor Adams. “Faith leaders are on the frontlines of countless issues and our administration is committed to supporting them however we can. I’m grateful to our faith communities for all they do, and I look forward to sitting down with leaders from across the city, as we embark on our Five-Borough Multifaith Tour, starting on Staten Island today.”

“I am delighted to kick off our second round of gatherings with multifaith leaders across the five boroughs,” said Mayor’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Partnerships Executive Director Pastor Gilford T. Monrose. “These meetings will be held for leaders of churches, temples, synagogues, mosques, and all the places of worship that play a critical role in all our communities. Today’s first meeting is an opportunity for faith leaders to discuss their work in the community and the issues and concerns facing their organizations on Staten Island.”

The Adams administration has engaged faith leaders on a number of issues, ranging from housing and homelessness to public safety and the asylum seeker humanitarian crisis. Last month, Mayor Adams announced additional details of his plan to help faith-based organizations and other mission-based nonprofits build critically-needed affordable housing across the five boroughs. As a key proposal in the Adams administration’s historic “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity” plan — a proposed set of zoning changes that aims to combat the city’s housing crisis by adding “a little more housing in every neighborhood” — the plan will unlock the ability for faith-based organizations to add new housing on their properties and generate income by updating zoning laws so they can more easily create much-needed new housing on their properties or convert older buildings to housing.

In January 2024, Mayor Adams and a coalition of multifaith leaders from across the city launched the Citywide Clergy Collective, a group of 272 faith leaders committed to preventing gun violence in New York City, at the administration’s annual interfaith breakfast. Using a $1.5 million grant from the New York State Department of Criminal Justice, Citywide Clergy Collective members deliver resources, direct services, and community-building programs to all New Yorkers across the five boroughs as they respond to the needs and traumas that gun violence creates. The programs and services are run by local faith leaders across the city with assistance from the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development, the Office of Neighborhood Safety, the Office of Faith-Based and Community Partnerships, and the New York City Police Department.

The Five-Borough Multifaith Tour also builds on the work of the Adams administration’s “Breaking Bread, Building Bonds,” a citywide initiative to combat the rise in hate crimes in many communities, and foster mutual understanding between New York’s diverse neighborhoods. Since launching in January 2023, the program has organized over 1,100 meals citywide and had over 11,000 participants.

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES NEW YORK CITY’S FIRST-EVER NONPROFIT ADVISORY COUNCIL

Announcement Builds on Adams Administration’s Continued
Efforts to Support and Invest in City’s Nonprofit Sector

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the city’s first-ever Nonprofit Advisory Council. Comprised of leaders and experts in the nonprofit sector, the advisory council will work with the New York City Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services to serve as a link between the Adams administration and the nonprofit organizations serving New Yorkers.

“When we came into office two years ago, we had a clear mission: protect public safety, rebuild our economy, and make this city more livable for everyday New Yorkers, and our nonprofits have a vital role in making all that happen,” said Mayor Adams. “We are fulfilling our mission and supporting nonprofits by investing $741 million in fairer wages for 80,000 human services employees working with the city, unlocking billions of dollars for nonprofits as we clear the contract backlog, and announcing the first-ever Nonprofit Advisory Council that will serve as a link between city government and nonprofit organizations. By convening this advisory council, we are making it easier to partner with nonprofits on everything from housing to health care to education. Nonprofit workers are our frontline workers, and we are going to make sure they have all the resources needed to thrive in our city.”

“The Adams administration is committed to strengthening the city government’s partnership with the nonprofit sector, which is central to providing services to millions of New Yorkers every day,” said Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Ana J. Almanzar. “The Nonprofit Advisory Council will help inform and guide our policymaking and programming to support the sector. The advisory council’s diverse membership reflects the vibrancy of nonprofits across all five boroughs, which will support our collective goal of creating a more resilient and equitable city for all.”

“Every day, in every borough, New Yorkers are interacting with nonprofit organizations, whether you are an older adult at a community center socializing with friends, a person with a disability receiving vocational training to help secure employment, or a family receiving navigation support to access various benefit programs,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “Nonprofits play a vital role in our network of support for individuals, children, and families and they must have a seat at the table. The Nonprofit Advisory Council is an important mechanism to ensure regular and open dialogue between government and the sector, and ultimately drive towards our shared goal — to support every individual, child, and family to thrive.”

“The nonprofit sector is the heartbeat of the city, representing every New Yorker, regardless of their race, culture, or economic status,” said Chief Procurement Officer and New York City Mayor’s Office of Contract Services (MOCS) Director Lisa Flores. “Through initiatives like clearing the backlog and the recent announcement of a cost-of-living-adjustment, this administration has shown that we’ve got the sector’s back. We are very excited to keep the momentum going with the Nonprofit Advisory Council, a dedicated forum for the sector to share feedback and ideas on how we can better support them, and our office looks forward to partnering with the Mayor’s Office for Nonprofit Services as we turn those ideas into lasting change.”

“The establishment of the first-ever Nonprofit Advisory Council to the Mayor’s Office for Nonprofit Services marks a significant milestone in fostering collaboration and innovation and supports the city’s vital nonprofit sector,” said Mayor’s Office for Nonprofit Services Interim Executive Director Diane Mamet.

The advisory council will convene regularly to discuss emerging challenges and opportunities facing the nonprofit sector, develop innovative strategies for capacity-building and sustainability, and advocate for policies to help nonprofits thrive. In collaboration with the Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services, the advisory council will provide insights, guidance, and recommendations connected to policies, legislative agendas, and responses to programmatic issues within city government that impact nonprofit organizations.

The inaugural members of the advisory council represent a broad spectrum of nonprofit organizations, including those focused on social services, education, arts and culture, and advocacy. Their diverse backgrounds and perspectives will ensure that the advisory council effectively addresses the needs of the nonprofit sector. The Nonprofit Advisory Council will be co-chaired by Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services Interim Executive Director Diane Mamet, Union Settlement President and Chief Executive Officer Reverend Dr. Darlene Williams, and Urban Pathways Chief Executive Officer Frederick Shack. The advisory council will include the following nonprofits:

Yaw Appiadu, executive director, Harlem Independent Living Center, Inc.
Tatianna M. Arguello, executive director, Nonprofit Staten Island
Courtney Bryan, executive director, Center for Justice Innovation
Catherine Calvo, community engagement officer, Mother Cabrini Health Foundation
Lisa David, president and chief executive officer, Public Health Solutions
Beatriz Diaz Taveras, executive director, Catholic Charities Community Services
Bibi Esahack, executive director, Bay Ridge Community Development Center, Inc.
Janelle Farris, president and chief executive officer, Brooklyn Community Services
Tara Gardner, executive director, Day Care Council of New York
Wayne Ho, president and chief executive officer, Chinese American Planning Council
Michelle Jackson, executive director, Human Services Council
Chai Jindasurat-Yasui, vice president, policy, Nonprofit New York
Wesner Joseph Pierre, chief executive officer, Partnership with Children
Dr. Damyn Kelly, president and chief executive officer, Lutheran Social Services of New York
Eichakeem McClay, executive vice president, United Way of New York City
Jonathan McLean, chief executive officer, Center for Alternative Sentencing & Employment Services
Annie Minguez, vice president, government and community relations, Good Shepherd Services
Frankie Miranda, president and chief executive officer, Hispanic Federation, Inc.
Peter Quinones, chief of government contracts and compliance, New York Edge, Inc.
Dr. Jocelynne Rainey, president and chief executive officer, Brooklyn Organization
Mohammad Razvi, chief executive officer and co-founder, Council of Peoples Organization
Avra Rice, president and chief executive officer, New York Urban League
Ronald E. Richter, chief executive officer, Jewish Child Care Association
Raysa Rodriguez, chief program and policy director, Federation of Protestant Welfare Agencies
Joseph Rosenberg, executive director, Catholic Community Relations Council of New York
Ronnie Silverman Messerschmidt, chief program development officer, HELP USA
Marlon Williams, vice president, collaboration and policy, Philanthropy New York
Rachel Watts, executive director, ArtsConnection

Today’s announcement builds on the Adams administration’s continued efforts to support, make significant investments in, and enact polices to support the nonprofit sector in New York City. Last month, the Adams administration announced a $741 million investment for an estimated 80,000 human services workers employed by non-profit organizations with a city contract as part of a new cost-of-living adjustment. The human services workforce — which is overwhelmingly female at 66 percent and 46 percent women of color — remains on the frontlines of the most pressing issues facing the city as they deliver vital services across housing, food access, health services, and asylum seeker services, among other areas. To date, the Adams administration has invested over $1.4 billion towards wage enhancements for the human services sector.

The Adams administration worked with MOCS on the Clear the Backlog initiative, which has already unlocked over $6 billion in funds that were long overdue, allowing nonprofits to get paid for their vital services. Together with New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, MOCS, and the Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services, Mayor Adams announced a new reform for discretionary contracts that will eliminate red tape and make it easier for nonprofits that contract with the city to get paid on time. The innovative reform eliminates a total of nine months of discretionary, contracting process time for nonprofits every year, beginning in the out-years for applicable contracts.

“I am truly honored to serve as an inaugural co-chair for the Nonprofit Advisory Council with the Mayor’s Office for Nonprofit Services,” said Dr. Darlene Williams, president and chief executive officer, Union Settlement. “As leaders dedicated to serving our community, the advisory council provides an invaluable opportunity to foster innovation, address the diverse needs of our city’s residents, and the integral role of nonprofit organizations. It is a privilege to stand alongside such dedicated community partners and organizations, united in our shared mission to enhance the well-being of all New Yorkers.”

“For a decade, the nonprofit sector — which employs over 125,000 people — has advocated for a mayoral office empowered to work alongside us in partnership, enhancing communication and collaboration for the betterment of the communities we serve,” said Fredrick Shack, chief executive officer, Urban Pathways. “We applaud Mayor Adams and his team for establishing the Mayor’s Office for Nonprofit Services and creating this advisory council, comprised of nonprofit leaders from diverse service areas. This mandate to improve services to New Yorkers through our partnership is a significant step forward, and we look forward to the positive impact this collaboration will have on our city.”

“New York City’s incredible nonprofits are essential to building a stronger, more prosperous future for all of our neighbors and communities,” said Dr. Jocelynne Rainey, president and chief executive officer, Brooklyn Org. “To help nonprofits reach their full potential, we must do more to help connect them with the people, ideas, and resources they need to grow. I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve on this council and to help empower our city’s dynamic and creative nonprofits.”

“I am honored to be a part of this advisory council as it is a new avenue to contribute to the dialogue shaping the future of our city’s vital nonprofit sector,” said Eichakeem McClary, executive vice president, United Way of New York City. “As we embark on this historic journey with the Mayor’s Office for Nonprofit Services, we will continue to advocate for outcomes that enable community-based organizations to remove barriers and dismantle inequities for marginalized communities in New York.”

“I would like to thank Mayor Adams for establishing the Mayor’s Office for Nonprofit Services and this advisory council,” said Wayne Ho president and chief engagement officer, Chinese-American Planning Council. “The Asian American community is the city’s fastest growing racial group and has the highest rate of poverty, so nonprofit organizations are critical to ensuring that this community not only survives but also thrives. Building off recent successes, I look forward to our work together to develop policies and practices to fully fund services, ensure a living wage for nonprofit workers, promote budget equity, and streamline the procurement process.”

“The Nonprofit Advisory Council will leverage the specialized expertise and unique insights of nonprofit professionals to support the city in fostering a more equitable environment for all residents of New York City,” said Yaw Appiadu, executive director, Harlem Independent Living Center.

“As chief executive officer of the Council of Peoples Organization, we recognize the invaluable role nonprofits play in fostering diverse communities regardless of difference,” said Mohammad Razvi, chief executive officer, Council of People’s Organization. “We appreciate the establishment of the Nonprofit Advisory Council and the Mayor’s Office for Nonprofit Services as an essential step towards ensuring that the needs and contributions of nonprofit organizations are acknowledged and supported at the highest levels of governance. Council of People’s Organization stands ready to engage with this advisory council, leveraging our expertise and resources to advance the collective well-being of our communities.”

“The advisory council is an example of Mayor Adams’ steadfast support of the nonprofit sector and the close relationship between the executive agencies and nonprofit frontline work,” said Ronald Richter, chief executive officer and executive director, JCCA. “The advisory council will continue to facilitate the partnership between the city, the nonprofit sector, and the diverse communities within New York City.”

“As the chief executive officer of Partnership with Children, a resilient 115-year-old organization advancing mental health for New York’s most under-resourced schoolchildren, I am honored to contribute both our experience and sense of urgency to the growth and vitality of the nonprofit sector in New York City,” said Wesner Pierre, chief engagement officer, Partnership With Children. “We applaud the Mayor’s Office for Nonprofit Services for forming the first-ever Nonprofit Advisory Council as protectors of our city’s equity and promise.”

“Nonprofits help make our city the vibrant, dynamic place we love,” said Chai Jindasurat-Yasui, vice president, policy, Nonprofit New York. “Every New Yorker, in every neighborhood, depends on nonprofits, and nonprofits need to play meaningful roles in problem solving and program development with our government partners. Nonprofit New York looks forward to continuing to work with the Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services on the many policy and structural reforms needed to support a robust and thriving nonprofit sector that will benefit all New Yorkers.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES FIRST ANNUAL INCREASE IN MINIMUM PAY RATE FOR APP-BASED RESTAURANT DELIVERY WORKERS

Minimum Hourly Rate Is Now $19.56 and Will Be Adjusted Annually for Inflation

Workers Now Earn Nearly $850 Million More Annually Since Department of Consumer and Worker Protection Began Enforcing Minimum Pay Rate

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 that, effective immediately, the city’s minimum pay rate for app-based restaurant delivery workers is increasing to at least $19.56 per hour before tips. The $19.56 rate reflects the 2024 phase-in rate of $18.96 and an inflation adjustment of 3.15 percent — up from an average of just $5.39 per hour before enforcement began. When the rate is fully phased-in on April 1, 2025, workers will earn at least $19.96 per hour with an adjustment for inflation. Since DCWP began enforcing the minimum pay rate in December 2023, apps have paid the city’s delivery workers $16.3 million more per week across the workforce — an increase of 165 percent — totaling an additional $847.6 million annually.

“Our delivery workers have consistently delivered for us — and today the city is delivering for them,” said Mayor Adams. “I was raised by a working mother who supported my five siblings and me, and there are thousands of delivery workers doing the same to support themselves and their families. And while wages have not kept up with the rising cost of living, since the new pay rate has been enforced, delivery workers have already seen a 165 percent increase in their pay per week. This is what it looks like to stand with working-class New Yorkers and build a fairer economy.”

“Today’s scheduled pay increase means we are delivering on our promises to the more than 60,000 app-based delivery workers in our city and ensuring they get compensated in accordance with the nation’s first minimum pay rate law,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “Thank you, Mayor Adams and Commissioner Mayuga, for ensuring that some of our city’s hardest workers are earning a more livable wage.”

“With the full range of flavors New York City has to offer at their fingertips, New Yorkers get instantaneous room service at all hours — and people who make that happen have high-risk, high-difficulty jobs. With this pay raise, we acknowledge their contributions to our city and continue to make their working life more manageable,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “With thanks to DCWP, we look forward to continuing this progress, using data to make their workplaces — the streets — some of the safest in the nation for delivery.”

“The minimum pay rate has been enormously successful in raising wages for our city’s delivery workers and providing them greater means to support themselves and their families,” said DCWP Commissioner Mayuga. “Any delivery worker with questions about the minimum pay rate, or any of their other worker rights, should reach out to us. Thank you to our city’s tens of thousands of delivery workers for fighting for a dignified wage and to Mayor Adams for centering working-class New Yorkers in all that we do.”

DCWP is actively monitoring compliance, which includes analyzing monthly reporting from the apps. Based on compliance data submitted by Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub, which together make up 95 percent of the market:

Workers are making a more livable wage. Delivery workers are earning $16.3 million per week more in wages. These workers went from being paid a rate of $5.39 per hour before tips — far below the minimum wage — to earning at least $17.96 per hour before tips.
Apps are using the workers’ time more efficiently while maintaining the same number of app-based delivery workers (over 60,000). The number of orders per week and the number of workers performing deliveries have remained steady since enforcement of the minimum pay rate began, and the amount of time workers spent waiting for trips decreased.
Consumers and restaurants have not been negatively affected. There was no change in the number of deliveries performed by workers for Uber Eats, DoorDash, or Grubhub, which together average about 2.6 million deliveries a week, both before and after enforcing the rate.

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, 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.

In September 2021, the New York City Council passed Local Law 115, requiring DCWP to study the pay and working conditions of app-based restaurant delivery workers and to establish a minimum pay rate for their work based on the study results. DCWP published its 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.

This minimum pay rate is just one part of the city’s holistic approach 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 delivery. In February 2024, Mayor Adams and the New York City Department of Transportation announced five public e-battery charging locations 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 launched a program for the first-of-its-kind street Deliveristas Hubs, utilizing existing infrastructure to provide a place for workers to rest and recharge.

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.

“Our 60,000-plus delivery workers make New York City run. Whether a pandemic or natural disaster, they are out in the streets braving dangerous traffic to bring New Yorkers whatever they need,” said New York State Assemblymember Jennifer Rajkumar. “Many of them are immigrants working day and night to achieve the American Dream. Just as they deliver for us, we will deliver for them. We made history by implementing a first-of-its-kind minimum hourly pay rate of $18.96, which will increase to $19.96 — nearly four times the previous average hourly pay rate of $5.39 before tips. These workers deserve living wages, ensuring they can earn a decent living, stand on their own two feet, and receive the respect and dignity they earned. The guaranteed wages that Mayor Adams and Commissioner Mayuga have instituted speak to our very humanity as a city.”

“Our city’s hardworking and dedicated delivery workers deserve a minimum pay rate that is reflective of the value of their labor,” said New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams. “Implementing an increased rate for app-based delivery workers will mean more money in their pockets to meet their daily needs. The City Council is proud to have enacted unprecedented protections for deliveristas, and we will continue to prioritize their safety, dignity, and well-being.”

“As chair of the Committee on Consumer and Worker Protection and former commissioner of the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, I welcome news that delivery workers will benefit with a new minimum pay rate,” said New York City Councilmember Julie Menin. “The new rates ensure that New York City remains a leading advocate for delivery workers.”

“As we celebrate this milestone that formally recognizes the enormous contribution of app delivery workers to our city, we’re proud to see that minimum pay is delivering real benefits to these essential workers, while maintaining strong outcomes for our city’s restaurants,” said Ligia Guallpa, executive director, Worker’s Justice Project. “Thank you to the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection and the Adams administration for having the vision to know that the right to decent pay for app delivery workers is fundamental to our city’s collective growth.”

“Our delivery worker brothers and sisters are essential to everyday life in our city,” said Bhairavi Desai, executive director, New York Taxi Workers Alliance. “They made daily life possible for tens of thousands of us through COVID and perform heroic work through storms and crisis. Their labor, done with risk of accidents and assault and over long hours, has made companies ultra wealthy, and in the case of Uber in particular, saved them from collapse through the pandemic when ride-hailing was at a standstill. It was sickening to see the companies kick and scream against meeting compliance over basic minimum wage — especially for workers who bear all the costs, but all the more thrilling when the mayor stood firm with Los Deliveristas Unidos to beat them. We are proud to see the good work the city did with us on establishing minimum pay be extended to our delivery brothers and sisters. We share the streets, we share the struggle, and we share the triumphs. We commend Mayor Adams, Deputy Mayor Torres-Springer, and DCWP Commissioner Mayuga for this groundbreaking city victory for workers in the so-called gig economy, and we congratulate the indomitable Los Deliveristas Unidos and Worker Justice Project whose organizing made this win possible.”

“New York City’s more than 65,000 delivery workers keep New Yorkers fed, and they deserve to be compensated fairly so they can keep their own families fed,” said Vinny Alvarez, president, New York City Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO. “Los Deliveristas Unidos and the Workers Justice Project faced enormous obstacles along the road to winning the guaranteed minimum wage last year, including intense opposition from big app companies. But they persevered, securing an additional $16.3 million a week across their essential workforce, and with today’s announcement they’ve once again helped set a new standard for delivery workers in this city, this state, and across the nation. We thank Mayor Adams and DCWP for their efforts in ensuring that the minimum pay rate is protected and enforced across our city.”

“Delivery workers keep our city fed and running,” said Kazi Fouzia, director of organizing, Desis Rising Up and Moving. “We celebrate the minimum wage increase honoring the labor of workers. But we are still struggling from corporate maneuvers to reduce hours, deactivate accounts, manipulate schedules, and prioritize profits over the needs of workers. We will continue to organize and build power to hold them to account, and work with the administration to find solutions that support delivery workers.”

“This inflation-adjustment increase in the minimum pay rate of app-based food delivery workers represents not only progress in achieving fair pay, but also safer work conditions for this essential workforce,” said Maria Figueroa, dean, School of Labor Studies at SUNY Empire. “As workers receive higher pay, they experience less pressure to complete a high number of deliveries in a short time frame. This enables delivery workers to work in a way that is safe for them and the public. Additionally, this raise can give a boost to New York’s economy, as the increased income of delivery workers is spent in local businesses. I commend Mayor Adams, Deputy Mayor Torres-Springer, and DCWP Commissioner Mayuga for this historic policy measure, which means a step forward on the path to safer streets and a more equitable economy for all New Yorkers.”

“Today’s announcement is a huge step forward for everyone who uses our city’s streets,” said Elizabeth Adams, deputy executive director of public affairs, Transportation Alternatives. “For far too long, delivery apps have demanded impossible delivery times for less than minimum wage in a constant race to the bottom. New York City’s streets are workplaces for our thousands of delivery workers, and fair pay means safer streets and safer working conditions. Worker justice, fair pay, and safety are inextricably interlinked, and we will keep fighting to ensure our streets are safe for everyone.”

“The minimum pay rate for app-based delivery workers has been an historic achievement for New York City,” said Charlene Obernauer, executive director, New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health. “These workers have braved the most difficult circumstances to deliver much needed food to our communities, all while major app companies have exploited their labor, paid them poverty wages, and pushed them into faster and more unsafe delivery times. We commend Mayor Adams and Commissioner Mayuga for making this right a reality and know that enforcement will be actively conducted to protect workers. Most importantly, I want to raise up in solidarity the delivery workers who fought for this protection and won fair pay for their industry.”

MAYOR ADAMS TO REVIVE CREATION OF PAUSED MONUMENTS HONORING NEW YORK CITY WOMEN

She Built NYC Initiative to Resume Completion on Four Remaining Fully-Funded Monuments to Honor NYC Women, Administration Issues Open Call for Artists to Participate

As Women’s History Month Nears End, Announcement Builds on Adams Administration’s Policies and Investments Supporting Women in NYC

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Cultural Affairs (DCLA) Commissioner Laurie Cumbo today announced the revival of the building of monuments honoring women influential in the city’s history. In 2018, She Built NYC was launched to address the underrepresentation of women in the city’s public art collection by commissioning five public monuments — one for each borough — to honor women and women’s history in New York City.

The Adams administration announced a major milestone on the first of the five projects — honoring Shirley Chisholm in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park — in July 2023, when it received unanimous approval from the city’s Public Design Commission. The other four projects were initially announced in March 2019, but stalled due to the COVID-19 pandemic in and never even got to the initial phase of planning. Thanks to the Adams administration, these four remaining projects are now being restarted, and an open call is being launched for artists to design them. She Built NYC will honor Dr. Helen Rodriguez Trías in the Bronx, Elizabeth Jennings Graham in Manhattan, Billie Holiday in Queens, and Katherine Walker in Staten Island.

“As we close out Women’s History Month, we remember that every day is an opportunity to celebrate the women who have led and built New York City into the greatest city in the world,” said Mayor Adams. “These extraordinary women saved lives, challenged racial and gender barriers, and overcame all odds to become leaders in each of their respective fields. Today, I’m proud that their legacy will forever be enshrined through public monuments across the five boroughs — open to all New Yorkers to see, learn, and understand their impact on our city.”

“Women built this city into the vibrant, extraordinary place it is today, and it’s far past time that the contributions of our forebears are celebrated and given their rightful place in our public realm,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “Symbolic progress like this goes hand-in-hand with real accomplishments, and I’m proud of this administration for launching Women Forward NYC to fight for women’s economic mobility, provide holistic services for women, and give women self-determination over their health and their lives. Today’s announcement marks another step toward a better, fairer city for women and all New Yorkers.”

“Public art is how we show the world who we are and what we value, and I’m overjoyed to get these exciting projects honoring extraordinary women from New York history back underway,” said DCLA Commissioner Cumbo. “As Women’s HERstory Month draws to a close, this is one critical way we can continue to build on the hard-won rights and recognition that our predecessors fought so hard for. In every borough, from pioneering doctors and artists to advocates and selfless public servants, we are committed to recognizing these achievements, while bringing incredible, dynamic public artworks to our city’s open spaces.”

Across New York City’s nearly 150 public monuments honoring historical figures, only eight are women. Under the Adams administration, DCLA worked across city agencies and with community partners to identify new locations tied to the women being honored for the four stalled projects announced today and are recruiting artists to design these new monuments. The monuments will be commissioned through DCLA’s “Percent for Art,” a city program where 1 percent of the agency’s budget is spent on public art. Artists can review full instructions for open calls on the artist submission website. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.

The women being honored in this round of new monuments are:

Dr. Helen Rodríguez Trías (1929-2001) – Bronx

Dr. Helen Rodríguez Trías was a pioneer in reproductive rights and HIV/AIDS care and prevention. Dr. Rodríguez Trías’ work often advocated on behalf of women and children, especially those in poor and minority communities. She became the medical director of the New York state Department of Health’s AIDS Institute and the first Latinx director of the American Public Health Association. Dr. Rodríguez Trías was a recipient of the Presidential Citizen’s Medal for her work on behalf of women, children, people with HIV/AIDS, and the poor. Among her greatest legacies are shaping regulations that govern informed content for sterilizations and empowering low-income and minority women through the women’s health movement.

The Dr. Helen Rodriguez Trías Monument will be built in a public-facing area at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln, where she was the head of the hospital’s pediatrics department and advocated for better medical care for the communities of color that the institution served.

Elizabeth Jennings Graham (1827–1901) – Manhattan

Elizabeth Jennings Graham challenged racial segregation a century before the modern civil rights movement. On July 16, 1854, the 24-year-old schoolteacher boarded a streetcar at the intersection of Pearl and Chatham Streets, on what is now Park Row, that did not accept African Americans as passengers. When the conductor confronted her, she refused to leave until forcibly removed by the police. The city’s African American community was outraged by the incident, and Graham sued the Third Avenue Railroad Company, the conductor, and the driver. The judge ruled in her favor, holding that “a colored person…had the same rights as others.” In addition to winning $225 in damages, Jennings’ case took the first step toward ending transit segregation in New York City. By 1860, all of the city’s streetcar lines were open to African Americans because of her efforts. In her later years, Jennings continued to teach, helping to start the first kindergarten in the city for Black children.

The Elizabeth Jennings Graham Monument will be built near the route of the streetcar journey on which she made her courageous stand.

Billie Holiday (1915-1959) – Queens

Born Eleanora Fagan Gough, “Billie” Holiday is one of the most celebrated jazz singers of all time. Her career helped to define New York as the emerging jazz scene, and she challenged racial barriers, becoming the first Black women to sing with a white orchestra. Holiday’s “Strange Fruit” — a powerful protest song about lynching — was named by Time Magazine as “the song of the century.” Her career was recognized with a dozen Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

The Billie Holiday Monument will be built at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center, near the clubs she performed in and the neighborhood she called home.

Katherine Walker (1838-1931) – Staten Island

Katherine Walker was the keeper of the Robbins Reef Lighthouse in Staten Island for 35 years. She is credited with saving the lives of at least 50 people and maintaining the light that guided countless ships to safe passage through Kill Van Kull, the shipping channel between Staten Island and Bayonne, New Jersey. One of the few female lighthouse keepers in U.S. history, she broke barriers in a male-dominated field and raised her two children at the lighthouse, rowing them back and forth to attend school on Staten Island. Walker’s story sheds light on the largely untold history of women working in New York City’s maritime industry.

The Katherine Walker Monument will be included in the ongoing development planned for Staten Island’s North Shore being spearheaded by the New York City Economic Development Corporation.

A monument honoring LGBTQ+ activists and pioneers Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera in Manhattan was announced subsequent to the four monuments being restarted today; plans and next steps for this monument will be announced at a future date.

Under Mayor Adams’ leadership, the city has made significant investments and enacted policies to support women in New York City. The Adams administration launched “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, with the ambitious goal of becoming the most women-forward city in the United States. Supported through city dollars, private and public partnerships, academic institutions, and federal grant funding, the action 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.  

Mayor Adams also launched “New York City Pathways to Industrial and Construction Careers,” an innovative new talent development initiative to bring women into emerging high-growth sectors. Additionally, child care is an issue that disproportionately impacts women, specifically women of color, who often act as primary caregivers while also representing a large number of child care sector employees. The Adams administration’s “Accessible, Equitable, High-quality, Affordable: A Blueprint for Child Care & Early Childhood Education in New York City,” is a multi-billion-dollar blueprint that invests in making child care more affordable and accessible for parents, while simultaneously investing in the non-profit sector’s workforce.

Finally, the Adams administration, created a “Women’s Health Agenda” to close the gaps in women’s health care caused by long-standing structural inequities, including lack of access to care, lack of inclusion, and lack of innovation. Building on his work as Brooklyn borough president to address Black maternal mortality, Mayor Adams also announced expansions to the city’s doula services, the midwifery initiative, and general maternal health services programs.

“For far too long, women and their contributions to our society have been excluded from history, but the She Built NYC initiative brings visibility and recognition to women who have helped to transform our city,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “We are excited Dr. Helen Rodriguez Trías will be highlighted for her work as a public health expert, women`s rights activist, and first Latina director of the American Public Health Association. Dr. Trais and the other women who will be included in this project were trailblazers whose legacies will now forever be cemented in New York City history.”

“Seldom do we see women honored by way of public art in New York City,” said New York City Councilmember Nantasha Williams. “Courageous sheroes like Billie Holiday overcame persecution by her own government for standing up for civil rights, so it is joyous to see her legacy honored among the countless white male faces of New York City monuments. My district is proud to call her our neighbor in life and in memory with this statue.”

“A monument to Billie Holiday at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center will be an incredible addition to the vibrant cultural community of Southeast Queens,” said Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning Executive Director Leonard Jacobs and Artistic Director Courtney French. “The lady sang the blues, but every day New Yorkers will sing her praises forever.”

“In the narrative of United States history, women too often have been gratuitously overlooked for their remarkable accomplishments and receive only short shrift,” said Valerie Paley, Ph.D., senior vice president and Sue Ann Weinberg, director, Patricia D. Klingenstein Library, New-York Historical Society. “A full century before Rosa Parks resisted segregation and took a stand on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama, Elizabeth Jennings Graham boarded a public streetcar on the corner of Pearl and Chatham Streets in Manhattan in the opening salvo that would ultimately lead to the desegregation of the city’s transit systems by the end of the Civil War. It is most fitting that the extraordinary effort in New York City to honor such unsung heroines of history should continue with the long overdue recognition of Elizabeth Jennings Graham.”

MAYOR ADAMS, NYPD COMMISSIONER CABAN TO PILOT NEW TECHNOLOGY, ANNOUNCE ADDITIONAL CLINICIANS TO BE DEPLOYED IN SUBWAYS

New Technology to Detect Weapons to Be Piloted 90 Days After Publication of Impact and Use Policy as Required by Law

City to Begin Hiring Clinicians to Support Expansion of SCOUT Pilot Program to Help Untreated Severe Mental Illness with $20 Million State Investment

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Police Department (NYPD) Commissioner Edward A. Caban today announced efforts being taken to make the Metropolitan Transit Authority’s (MTA) subway system safer by investing in new technology to detect firearms, as well as invest in more clinicians that will help those suffering from severe mental illness in the nation’s largest subway system. The city is exploring, and will soon begin piloting, emerging technologies designed to detect weapons carried by travelers into the transit system. In accordance with the Public Oversight of Surveillance Technology (POST) Act, the NYPD also published online its Impact and Use Policy for electromagnetic weapons detection systems, starting a mandatory 90-day waiting period before new technology can be tested and used in New York City. Additionally, Mayor Adams announced that the city will begin hiring clinicians to support the expansion of the Subway Co-Response Outreach Teams (SCOUT), a pilot program launched in partnership with the state and the MTA to connect people with untreated severe mental illness in the subways to mental health treatment and care.

“Keeping New Yorkers safe on the subway and maintaining confidence in the system is key to ensuring that New York remains the safest big city in America,” said Mayor Adams. “Today’s announcement is the next step in our ongoing efforts to keep dangerous weapons out of our transit system and to provide greater mental health services for New Yorkers in crisis. By kicking off a 90-day waiting period to test electromagnetic weapons detection systems here in New York City and hiring more clinicians for SCOUT, we are showing our administration’s dedication to keeping all New Yorkers safe.”

“Since the start of my administration, Mayor Adams and I have worked together closely to keep the subways safe for all New Yorkers,” said New York Governor Kathy Hochul. “This month, I announced a five-point plan to improve safety in the subways, including dedicating $20 million to expand the SCOUT program, which will help more New Yorkers receive the treatment they need. The new technology announced today builds on our existing commitments to place cameras throughout the system and will help law enforcement keep dangerous weapons out of the system.”

“People with untreated serious mental illness taking refuge in the subway system deserve safety, stability, and community,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “The journey to this destination takes time, but the first step is often the hardest: connecting a person with medical care that they may not recognize they need. This is the critical mission of our SCOUT teams. Through a co-response model, SCOUT empowers our caring clinicians to engage with New Yorkers in crisis, assess their needs, and respond accordingly. We are heartened by the results so far, excited for the possibilities with this expansion, and grateful to our MTA partners for their shared determination to get this right.”

“The brave men and women of the NYPD are averaging more than 4,500 gun arrests a year since the start of this administration and have taken well over 15,000 illegal firearms off New York City streets so far,” said NYPD Commissioner Caban. “At the same time, overall crime in our transit system continues to trend downward as our officers actively engage lawbreakers each day and night. To make these achievements meaningful for all New Yorkers, however, we must make safety a reality in every community we serve, on every train line we protect. We are doing that by remaining laser-focused on the relatively small number of people who commit violent crimes, by deploying our resources effectively, by maximizing the utility of new technology, and by constantly evaluating our performance in a relentless effort to do even better.”

“Riders have to feel safe when riding the subways and that requires innovation — new weapons detection technology, but also increased deployments of police, tougher handling of repeat offenders by the criminal justice system, and expanded resources for mental health,” said MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber. “Thankfully, Mayor Adams and Governor Hochul get it and continue to fight for the millions of people who rely on the transit system.”

During the 90-day waiting period, the NYPD will be working to identify companies with proven expertise in weapons detection technology. At the end of the waiting period, a pilot program will be instituted in some subway stations where the NYPD will be able to further evaluate the equipment’s effectiveness

As of Sunday, March 24, 2024, NYPD officers have seized a total of 450 weapons — including 19 illegal guns — in the New York City transit system this year, compared to 261 weapons — including nine guns — during the same period last year. The NYPD also seized 1,515 weapons in the subway system in 2023, including 1,470 cutting instruments and 45 illegal firearms. That tally was a stark increase from the previous year, when 947 total weapons were seized, including 912 cutting instruments and 35 guns.

Last month, Mayor Adams directed the NYPD to surge an additional 1,000 police officers into the subway system each day to keep help New Yorkers safe. Additionally, earlier this week, the NYPD announced “Operation Fare Play,” an initiative to ensure people pay their fare when entering the subway system by deploying 800 more police officers into the subway system to crack down on fare evasion. Through Sunday, overall crime in the transit system was down nearly 16 percent for the month of March, compared to the same month last year, adding to February’s 15.4 percent month-over-month decrease in crime in the subway system. Since the start of 2024, overall arrests in the subway system are up nearly 56 percent compared to last year, including a 78 percent increase in fare-evasion arrests and a 111 percent jump in gun arrests.

Launched in October 2023, the SCOUT pilot program has operated with two teams in the subways focused on connecting those with untreated severe mental illness with mental health support and long-term care. SCOUT teams are comprised of a clinician and two MTA police officers, and, in the 90 days of operation, the two teams have moved 90 individuals out of the subway system and into care. Earlier this month, Governor Hochul announced a $20 million investment to scale this pilot and bring the total number of SCOUT teams to 10 by the end of 2025. With this investment from the state, the city will begin hiring additional clinicians to support the expansion of SCOUT and reach even more New Yorkers in need of care.

ADAMS ADMINISTRATION UNVEILS INITIATIVE TO CREATE TENS OF THOUSANDS OF AFFORDABLE HOMES IN HIGH-DEMAND AREAS, CONTINUES URGENT CALL FOR ACTION TO ADDRESS HOUSING CRISIS

New Initiative Part of “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity”

City Releases Rezoning Lookback Reports to Show Costs of Zoning Restrictions in Low-Density Neighborhoods

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today unveiled a new initiative as part of his administration’s historic “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity” proposal that will create tens of thousands of affordable homes in areas of the city that many working-class New Yorkers are unable to afford. An outdated restriction on new residential construction — also known as the floor-to-area-ratio (FAR) cap — currently limits the number of new homes that can be built in certain high-demand areas of the city, such as Midtown Manhattan. As state lawmakers consider lifting the FAR cap, the Adams administration is proposing a new zoning tool to allow for even more density of residential buildings while simultaneously mandating the creation of permanently affordable housing across the city.

“New Yorkers need relief from the housing and affordability crisis, and they need it now,” said Mayor Adams. “As someone who grew up on the edge of homelessness, I know firsthand that safe, secure, and affordable housing is critical to the prosperity of any working-class New Yorker. As we announce new, bold initiatives, I am urging lawmakers at every level of government to join us in our efforts to meet this moment and deliver homes that New Yorkers need and deserve.”

“Our housing crisis has been so long in the making, and the severity of our crisis is now so dire, that to change the trajectory of this problem, we need to do everything, everywhere, all at once,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “By proposing brand new residential districts that require permanently affordable homes, we are demonstrating, yet again, that New York City will continue to take bold action to meet the moment and we call on our partners across all levels of government to do the same.”

“The outdated FAR cap prevents affordable housing from being built where it’s needed most, particularly in central areas of Manhattan with great access to transit, jobs, and amenities. By creating new high-density, residential zoning districts with Mandatory Inclusionary Housing, New York City will be ready to act as soon as Albany lifts this cap,” said New York City Department of City Planning (DCP) Director and City Planning Commission (CPC) Chair Dan Garodnick. “Additionally, our new rezoning lookback reports are a timely reminder that we must tackle our housing crisis with an equitable, city-wide approach, and that’s exactly what these new zoning districts will help us do.”

“A citywide housing crisis requires a citywide approach, and the ‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity’s’ commonsense solutions will address the root causes of rising housing costs by adding permanently affordable housing opportunities through zoning,” said New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development Commissioner Adolfo Carrión Jr. “With a record low vacancy rate, now is the time for the bold action we need to address the historically uneven approach to housing production and create housing in every neighborhood across the city.”

“Addressing the affordability challenges our city is faced with requires action from every level of government and the ability to build more housing in every neighborhood of the five boroughs” said Executive Director for Housing Leila Bozorg. “Ensuring we are ready to move on pending state action to lift the FAR cap, along with other bold ideas in our ‘City of Yes for a Housing Opportunity’ proposal, means we’ll be a step closer to delivering permanently affordable homes in neighborhoods that have historically been inaccessible for many New Yorkers.”

The Adams administration’s ambitious proposal needs state lawmakers to lift the FAR cap in order to be enacted. Once the cap is lifted, pending City Council approval of the City of Yes for Housing Opportunity plan, new residential projects undergoing a rezoning could benefit from this new tool — which would enable residential projects to build up to 15 or 18 times their lot size — and build significantly more housing on their site. Under the administration’s proposal, new housing projects will be required to build permanently affordable housing through Mandatory Inclusionary Housing. Mandatory Inclusionary Housing requires that 20 percent to 30 percent of the housing in a development is affordable to New Yorkers earning an average of 40 percent to 80 percent of the area median income.

Underscoring the urgent need for new tools to spur the creation of new housing, DCP today also released a set of “rezoning lookback” reports, examining 15 neighborhood rezonings that were enacted in 2009 and how zoning changes impacted local housing production. The reports show that when policymakers enacted more restrictive zoning in low-density neighborhoods, housing production, effectively, stopped, and that new housing productions was concentrated in select areas of the city. The reports shed new light on the need to build more affordable housing across the five boroughs.

In addition to calling for the state to lift the FAR cap, the administration has continued to call for lawmakers in Albany to create new tools this legislative session to help the city build more affordable housing, including passing a new affordable housing tax incentive, a tax incentive to turn empty office buildings into affordable homes, and a pathway to make basement and cellar apartments safe and legal.

City of Yes for Housing Opportunity is the most pro-housing set of zoning changes in New York’s history. These changes includes lifting arbitrary and costly parking mandates for new residential construction; the Universal Affordability Preference, a bonus allowing roughly 20 percent more housing in developments, so long as the additional homes are affordable; 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; and allowing homeowners to add accessory homes like backyard cottages.

DCP is currently undertaking environmental review on the proposal and will refer it for public review by community boards and borough presidents later this spring. It is anticipated to come before the CPC and the New York City Council for a vote before the end of the year.

To accelerate housing production and deliver relief to New Yorkers, the Adams administration has advanced a number of creative solutions, including laying out an office conversion accelerator to advance conversions more quickly; unveiling new proposed rules to streamline approvals for sustainable housing; and debuting several pilot programs to help fund the creation of accessory dwelling units, help move New Yorkers out of shelters and into renovated apartments, and help fuel mixed-income developments in neighborhoods across the city; among other innovative efforts.

City of Yes for Housing Opportunity is the third of the Adams administration’s three “City of Yes” initiatives to update New York City’s zoning laws for a more sustainable, prosperous, and affordable city. The first — “City of Yes for Carbon Neutrality”— was adopted by the City Council in December. The second — “City of Yes for Economic Opportunity” was approved by the CPC on March 6 and is being considered by the City Council.

MAYOR ADAMS RELEASES REQUIREMENTS, OPENS PERMIT APPLICATIONS FOR RESPONSIBLE AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE TESTING IN NEW YORK CITY

DOT to Oversee Autonomous Vehicle Testing Through New Permit Program, With Trained Driver Behind Wheel at All Times

Requirements Prioritize Safety in Testing and Use of Autonomous Vehicles

Successful AV Program Could Increase Traffic Safety, Decrease Emissions

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez today released robust safety requirements for responsible and safe autonomous vehicle (AV) testing in New York City, as well as announced the opening of applications for a new permit program. DOT has established a rigorous permitting program to ensure approved applicants are ready to test their technology in the country’s most challenging urban environment safely and proficiently. Consistent with state law, a trained safety driver will still be required to sit behind the wheel and be ready to take control of an AV-enabled vehicle at all times.

“New York City leads the nation in responsible innovation, and we’re continuing to do so with this new autonomous vehicle program,” said Mayor Adams. “Our streets are vibrant and energetic — and that’s a great thing, but it also means that we need to have strong guardrails and requirements in place on any sort of autonomous vehicles. That’s why we’re implementing these rigorous permit requirements and requiring close collaboration with DOT and our emergency responders, so we can ensure that autonomous vehicle technology works for New York City. This technology is coming whether we like it or not, so we’re going to make sure that we get it right. If we do, our streets can be safer, and our air could be cleaner.”

“Autonomous vehicles aren’t just coming, they’re here — they’ve been successfully operating across the country for years. We are doing our due diligence to get ahead of the AV revolution, and ensure that if AVs are coming, they do so within a framework that benefits New Yorkers, and creates training and good, upwardly mobile jobs in the autonomous industry,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi.  “It’s been the story for too long that government can’t keep up with private enterprise. No longer. With careful regulation, we believe that they have the potential to benefit a city as complex as New York.”   

“As autonomous vehicle technology expands across the country, DOT is deploying a robust new permitting process to ensure safe, responsible testing on our city’s streets,” said DOT Commissioner Rodriguez. “Driver error and distraction plays an all-too-common role in traffic crashes, and autonomous vehicle technology offers potential to improve traffic safety. We look forward to working closely with AV companies that are serious about safely operating on America’s most challenging street network.”

The city’s approach prioritizes safety and accountability in AV testing. As part of the approval process, applicants must submit information on their previous testing experience and technological capabilities, a detailed testing plan for New York City, and a safety plan describing key elements that will contribute to the safe operation of their technology on city streets.

Companies must also follow industry best practices related to the recruitment and training of the safety drivers that must be present in the vehicle during testing. Additionally, applicants must obtain approval from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles before starting an on-street testing program. The intent of this program is to create a roadmap for a collaborative future of AV testing and potential deployment in New York City, one in which AV companies work closely with the city to support a vision for a safe, sustainable, equitable, and efficient transportation system for all.

As part of the city’s safety protocols, applicants must provide details on how their test operators are selected and trained, and attest that they will follow recent best practices from the Society of Automotive Engineers. These practices include background checks for test operators, appropriate training on the vehicle systems they will be testing, and working conditions and frequent breaks that will keep them focused on the job and avoid distraction. Applicants must also certify that the vehicles will follow all traffic laws and curb regulations and include safety assurance protocols for how the operator will compensate for any AV system limitation or failure and proactively intervene to avoid potential crashes.

Applicants will be required to coordinate closely with DOT through regular meetings and data reporting, as well as to engage with the New York City Police Department and the Fire Department of the City of New York on how their autonomous vehicles interact with emergency vehicles. Companies must also certify that they are adhering to industry best practices related to cybersecurity.

Applicants will additionally be required to provide a detailed overview of the level of automation and safety performance of their AV technology, including previous testing and crash histories of their AV technology. Further, applicants will have to provide a list of all current or past permits to test their technology in any local, state, or foreign government agency.

DOT will meet regularly with program participants in the lead-up to and during testing to assess testing plans, identify potential challenges, and monitor compliance with the terms of the permit. Participants in the testing program will be required to report testing data, including incidents where test drivers take control over from the AV technology, on a regular basis.

“Waymo has had a longstanding relationship with New York City, where we have previously manually driven and tested for winter weather,” said Michelle Peacock, global head of public policy, Waymo. “We commend this important step, as well as the city’s ongoing commitment to drive innovation and deliver transportation improvements for New Yorkers. As the world’s leading autonomous vehicle ride hailing company, Waymo looks forward to continuing our partnership with Mayor Adams and his administration as we continue to safely bring our technologies to more cities and communities across the country.”

MAYOR ADAMS LAUNCHES MULTI-PRONGED EFFORT TO CONNECT MORE NEW YORKERS TO JOBS AND TRAINING, REDUCE BARRIERS TO OPPORTUNTIES

Targeting Areas with High Unemployment, Adams Administration Will Bring Public and Private “Hiring Halls” Directly to Communities, Launch New Jobs and Talent Portal

Adams Administration Has Already Reformed Requirements to Make City Jobs More Accessible

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced “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. The collaborative effort will focus on three core pillars: 1) revamping the administration’s “hiring halls” in an effort to bring public and private job opportunities and career services to economically-disadvantaged communities on a monthly basis in each borough, 2) launching a new Jobs.nyc.gov talent portal to connect New Yorkers to job and training opportunities, and 3) continuing to reform the city’s Minimum Qualification Requirements to make certain entry-level jobs within city government are more accessible. In June 2023, Mayor Adams removed the bachelor’s degree requirement for certain city jobs.

“While we have a lot to celebrate in recovering all of the private-sector jobs lost during the pandemic — more than a year ahead of schedule — our recovery has not been equitable and it has not yet reached every New Yorker. That’s why we are doing everything we can to make sure New York City remains a city for working-class people,” said Mayor Adams. “Black unemployment is still far too high in New York City and across the nation, but Jobs NYC will bring a whole-of-government effort to meet New Yorkers where they are — helping to build an economy of the future with real pathways to family-sustaining careers. This is how we ensure all New Yorkers, particularly those in Black and Brown communities, have access to the jobs of the 21^st century, and this is how we can continue to recruit a workforce that is reflective of the diversity of our city. Jobs NYC will help us build a city where opportunity reaches every borough, block, and neighborhood.”

“We have recovered all of the private-sector jobs lost during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, that recovery has not been equitable,” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “The unemployment rate for Black New Yorkers is 9.3 percent compared to 3 percent for white New Yorkers. This difference is unacceptable. Through a new jobs portal, hiring halls across the five boroughs, and changes to the Minimum Qualification Requirements for city jobs, we are making additional changes to close that gap. These investments build upon the Adams administration’s work throughout the past two years. We created job hubs in select neighborhoods, launched the largest public-private loan fund for small businesses in the city’s history, and set a $6 billion record in M/WBE awards. Today’s announcement ensures that all New Yorkers have the opportunity to participate in the city’s thriving economy.”

“At the start of this administration, we committed, through Executive Order 22, to invest in the city’s talent and workforce development systems,” said Deputy Mayor of Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Development Maria Torres Springer. “The key to that investment was to develop strategies that centralize, and better coordinate workforce services and programming for the benefit of New Yorkers who need them most. The Jobs NYC portal and Jobs NYC hiring halls — digital and physical points of entry to the city’s workforce system — bring public and private employment opportunities and workforce programming together in a central place, realizing the goal of a better centralized and coordinated talent and workforce development system that meets New Yorkers where they are.”

“Jobs NYC provides the full spectrum of resources a New Yorker needs to find a job, from a one-stop shop online portal to career training to job opportunities in both the private and public sectors, and delivers it right to the communities most in need,” said Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Ana J. Almanzar. “This all hands-on-deck government approach will make it easier for New Yorkers to better participate in our economy and uplift entire communities. I want to thank all the community based-organizations, government agency partners, private-sector collaborators, and my fellow deputy mayors who are ensuring that everyone has a fair chance to prosper in our economic recovery.”

“Today’s announcement executes on our values to expand opportunities in every area across the city and to take action to see that every individual and family has the chance to fully participate in the economy,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “We encourage interested New Yorkers to explore opportunities to work for Team New York City as part of our city government. There are so many fulfilling career pathways to help us build an ever stronger and more equitable city.”

“Jobs NYC leverages the strength and scale of New York City’s public workforce system and its many partners to ensure city resources are more easily accessible and reaching the communities that need them the most,” said New York City Mayor’s Office of Talent and Workforce Development Executive Director Abby Jo Sigal. “This integration of technology and community partnership helps streamline client access to important career services and other benefits, so all New Yorkers can more easily find the resources they need to obtain good-paying jobs and share in the city’s economic prosperity.”

“Democratizing technology and removing barriers to access critical services and information are key commitments made by the Adams administration, and the Jobs NYC talent portal is yet another example of delivering on these promises,” said New York City Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser. “Jobs NYC, and its targeted training and workforce development resources, make it easier for more New Yorkers to be skills-ready and connect to greater economic opportunities across the city.”

“There is no greater privilege than working for the city and serving our fellow New Yorkers, and thanks to this effort to reevaluate some of the city’s more restrictive titles through our Minimum Qualification Requirement reviews, it is our hope that more people than ever will be eligible to join our great municipal workforce,” said New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) Commissioner Dawn M. Pinnock. “With the launch of Jobs NYC, we are not only expanding opportunities for New Yorkers to find meaningful employment, but also ensuring that our city’s workforce represents the diversity and talent of our communities. Through innovative advancements like the renewed hiring halls and the online jobs and talent portal, we are breaking down barriers, and fostering equity and access in every corner of our city.”

“Jobs NYC is an example of this administration’s commitment to bringing resources directly to communities,” New York City Mayor’s Public Engagement Unit Executive Director Adrienne Lever. “Rather than asking people to navigate multiple government websites to find help, this streamlined approach will make it easier for New Yorkers to apply to jobs. The Public Engagement Unit is thrilled to support this important initiative to bring employment resources and job opportunities to more New Yorkers.”

“Jobs NYC is about more than just employment. It is the embodiment of SBS’s mission to unlock the economic potential of all New Yorkers,” said New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS) Commissioner Kevin D. Kim. “SBS is proud to support this initiative by connecting jobseekers directly with employers, ensuring that everyone in New York City has the opportunity to succeed as we build up the ‘City of Yes.’”

“Jobs NYC will bring economic opportunities directly to communities throughout the five boroughs. This initiative will build on the extensive investments already made by the Adams administration to reduce barriers between employers and those seeking employment,” said New York City Mayor’s Office Community Affairs Unit (CAU) Commissioner Fred Kreizman. “CAU is eager to support Jobs NYC and connect New Yorkers to jobs, services, trainings, and more.”

“We are proud to partner on the development of the Jobs NYC talent portal,” said New York City Mayor’s Office for Economic Opportunity Acting Executive Director Carson Hicks. “Helping New Yorkers to more easily access jobs and training opportunities is a key part of our mission to increase economic opportunity.”

“New York City’s economic recovery has been robust, but it has also been uneven with many communities, especially communities of color, still experiencing high rates of unemployment and economic instability. As a result, we continue to see more New Yorkers relying on government benefits to make ends meet,” said New York City Department of Social Services Commissioner Molly Wasow Park. “With Jobs NYC, the Adams administration is taking the necessary steps to reverse this trend and ensure that New York City’s recovery is truly equitable. We look forward to working with our Jobs NYC partners to reduce barriers to employment and connect disadvantaged New Yorkers to quality employment opportunities that will lead to long-term financial security.”

“Our city has experienced a great economic rebound, but the benefits of this recovery have not been equally distributed. Through Jobs NYC, this city is helping bridge the gap — bringing employers to the table and placing job opportunities at the fingertips of every New Yorker,” said New York City Chief Equity Officer and Mayor’s Office of Equity & Racial Justice Commissioner Sideya Sherman. “The city is taking an important step in reversing this trend by focusing resources, including hiring halls, trainings, and educational programs, towards the communities with the highest unemployment rates. We are pleased to collaborate with our fellow city agencies and community partners to help more New Yorkers start and grow their careers.”

“Jobs NYC builds on the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development’s existing workforce development efforts, and we are thrilled to help secure hiring hall sites and volunteers in support of Mayor Adams’ forward-thinking vision to enhance the lives of working-class New Yorkers,” said New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) Commissioner Keith Howard. “DYCD is excited to work alongside our administration colleagues and provider partners to connect communities to training and paid opportunities, particularly in neighborhoods that need jobs the most.”

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 will revamp the already popular hiring halls. Not only will these hiring hall take place in each borough on a monthly basis in areas of the city experiencing employment disparities, but — in addition to connecting New Yorkers with job opportunities in the municipal workforce — these events will now provide 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.

To deliver job and training opportunities citywide, the Adams administration also launched the Jobs NYC online talent portal, a free resource managed by the Mayor’s Office of Talent and Workforce Development and accessible through the MyCity portal that connects job seekers to career opportunities, free employment services, and occupational-skills trainings for opportunities in both the public and private sectors.

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 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.

Today’s announcement builds on a series of policy reforms made by Mayor Adams to retain top talent in the city workforce, provide high-quality services to New Yorkers, and create equitable pipelines to enter the city’s workforce, which has historically been a vehicle for economic mobility for millions of New Yorkers. Last month, Mayor Adams made city government more family-friendly for thousands of employees by expanding both paid parental and family leave for non-union city workers. Impacting over 10,000 municipal employees and making the city more competitive with municipalities and employers across the country, the Adams administration doubled paid parental leave for non-union employees, from six to 12 weeks, and began providing up to 12 weeks of paid family leave for those caring for seriously ill family members.

In the last 13 months, Mayor Adams has successfully negotiated contracts with unions representing 95 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 (UFT), 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.

Additionally, in an effort to retain talent in the human services sector, just two weeks ago, Mayor Adams announced a $741 million investment for an estimated 80,000 human services workers employed by non-profit organizations with a city contract as part of a new cost-of-living adjustment.

“The nonprofit sector is an economic engine in New York, and human services organizations help people find jobs and also employee over 125,000 workers in New York City, said Michelle Jackson, executive director, Human Services Council. “Unfortunately, the sector is facing significant vacancy rates and the recent multi-year -of-living adjustment investment announced by the mayor goes a long way in helping that, but we also need to find and retain new talent. Jobs NYC provides a great opportunity for local nonprofits to find that new talent while also connecting people in their programs to other job opportunities, particularly in areas with high unemployment.”

“Economic opportunity is critical for safe, healthy communities,” said Ionna Jimenez, project director, Brownsville Community Justice Center. “By bringing employment opportunities right to Brownsville’s doorstep, Jobs NYC’s localized approach not only reduces barriers to employment but also promotes greater community cohesion and fosters economic growth at the grassroots level.”

“New York City’s workforce is the backbone of its economic success. The Jobs NYC effort builds on the commitment of the Adams administration to the development of an inclusive, post-pandemic economy by increasing access to employment-related resources and on-ramps online and in-person,” said Gregory J. Morris, chief executive officer, New York City Employment and Training Coalition. “As a membership that is relied to connect New Yorkers, of all ages, in every borough, to people on the path to good paying jobs that sustain them and their communities, we acknowledge the innovative initiatives put forth by Mayor Adams to make New York ‘work’ for working people. From the moonshot goal on apprenticeships and the establishment of an Office of Community Hiring to the Women Forward NYC Action Plan and today’s announcement regarding the reformation of the city’s minimum qualification requirements, we are readying New Yorkers who drive our local economy today, and our young people who will make up our future workforce for this transformative moment in our city’s economic development and growth.”

“JobsFirstNYC will support the Jobs NYC initiative by providing access to our innovative Skills Mapping initiative, helping jobseekers better understand their skills and how they connect to jobs available during neighborhood employment events and in the broader market place, and facilitate connections with OneTen, a national coalition of top employers working to bridging the opportunity gap for skilled workers without college degrees,” said Marjorie Parker, chief executive officer and president, JobsFirstNYC. “JobsFirstNYC remains dedicated to partnering with all workforce development stakeholders, including employers, jobseekers, and training programs, to foster equitable economic opportunity and empower individuals in every community.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES PLANS TO OPEN SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER CLINIC FOR EXPECTING AND PARENTING FAMILIES

Part of Mayor Adams’ “Women Forward NYC” Plan, City Commits $8 Million to Open Clinic

Located at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln in South Bronx — Borough With Highest Overdose Death Rate — Clinic Will Advance Goals to Address Black Maternal Mortality, Opioid Epidemic

Expected to Open in 2026, Clinic Will Serve Nearly Over 200 Families Annually

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and NYC Health + Hospitals today announced plans to open an $8 million health and substance use disorder clinic for pregnant and postpartum women and their families. The clinic will offer pregnant and parenting individuals living with substance use disorder — a dependence on alcohol, tobacco and other drugs — a safe and supportive place to access prenatal and postnatal care, addiction medicine, and behavioral health care. As the city aims to reduce Black maternal mortality by 10 percent and reduce opioid deaths by 25 percent by 2030, this clinic will support healthy birth outcomes, reduce the likelihood and impact of postpartum relapse, and address the needs of older children living in these families. Funded with an investment through “Women Forward NYC: An Action Plan for Gender Equity” — the Adams administration’s $43 million plan with the ambitious goal of making New York City the most woman-forward city in the country — the clinic will build on the city’s cross-sector work to improve the health and well-being of all women.

The 6,500 square foot space, expected to open in 2026, will serve approximately 200 families per year and will be located at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln in the Bronx — the borough with the highest rate of opioid overdose death in New York City. In addition to substance use support, patients will also be able to access connections to community-based organizations for other critical services supporting recovery, such as housing, food, and employment. Care teams will be comprised of medical and behavioral health providers, including social workers, community health workers, and certified peer counselors with lived experience of substance use disorder.

“This is a critical moment for women’s health in New York City and across the country,” said Mayor Adams. “Addiction and substance use disorder doesn’t discriminate, and overdoses are a leading cause of deaths in pregnant and postpartum women in New York City, affecting not only the new parent, but also their family and loved ones. Our administration has taken action to boost birth equity and support new families — expanding the doula program citywide, signing a package of bills to strengthen maternal health, and setting the ambitious goal of reducing Black maternal mortality by 10 percent by 2030 — and today’s announcement of the Family Substance Use Disorder clinic coming to NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln is a continuation of that critical work. Our children are our most precious resource and by investing in them and their families from the start, we’ll build a safer and healthier city for generations to come.”

“Today’s $8 million investment, part of ‘Women Forward NYC,’ shows concrete steps the administration is taking to build lasting structures to support families before and after welcoming a child,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “We also know that the opioid crisis has touched so many families, and this new clinic will be a place for support, connection, and assistance as practitioners walk with new and expecting parents on their journey to better health. Finally, this new clinic is part of a broader strategy to reduce Black maternal mortality by 10 percent by 2030 and to reduce opioid overdose deaths by 25 percent by 2030. Thank you to the specialized teams doing this work to help us tackle these issues that affect so many families in the Bronx and beyond.”

“Substance use disorder is not only detrimental to the user, but also impacts the pregnancy and family — nuclear as well as extended,” said NYC Health + Hospitals Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer Machelle Allen, MD. “Pregnancy is a time when motivation for behavior change is high. It is our aim to leverage this personal motivation, coupled with peer support, professional guidance, and whole family engagement, to achieve a clean and sober intact family unit within which the child and his or her siblings thrive.”

“Unfortunately, substance use disorder does not discriminate for pregnancy, and overdoses are a leading cause of deaths in pregnant and postpartum women in New York City,” said NYC Health + Hospitals Chief Women’s Health Service Officer Wendy Wilcox, MD, MPH, MBA, FACOG. “There is a critical and harmful intersectionality between maternal health and substance use disorder, which may lead to disastrous consequences for both pregnant and postpartum people and their children. For this reason, I am thrilled NYC Health + Hospitals is launching a holistic program to treat pregnant and postpartum people who have substance use disorder with their families. This is a crucial step to lower maternal mortality and morbidity and save lives!”

“Supporting our pregnant and postpartum women through this clinic fills a crucial gap in our system,” said NYC Health + Hospitals Deputy Chief Medical Officer and System Chief of Behavioral Health Omar Fattal, MD, MPH. “We hope this new clinic will be a beacon for pregnant women and new mothers to ensure support is available across the spectrum of medical, behavioral health, and social services. We are excited to develop new ways to address the great need for specialized substance use services in the Bronx.”

“An integrated service setting like this changes the treatment landscape for families challenged by addiction,” said NYC Health + Hospitals Director of Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health Growth and Strategy Jennifer Havens, MD. “Bringing the whole family into comprehensive non-judgmental care holds the most promise for parents’ and children’s well-being.”

“With overdose a leading cause of Black maternal deaths, and the tragic ripple effects, stigma-free access to substance use disorder and mental health treatment for expecting families is a must,” said New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan. “We celebrate the opening of NYC Health + Hospital’s first family substance use disorder clinic and hope it will lead to healthier, stronger families and communities.”

NYC Health + Hospitals is the largest provider of behavioral health care in New York City. The system provides almost 60 percent of behavioral health services citywide, serving over 75,000 patients annually across emergency, inpatient, and outpatient care. It offers a spectrum of services that treat substance use disorders, including several outpatient substance use clinics, four opioid treatment programs, buprenorphine treatment in person or via a telehealth visit through Virtual ExpressCare, and treatment for withdrawal from alcohol and opioid use at five of its substance use clinics on a walk-in basis.

NYC Health + Hospitals’ wide range of obstetric and gynecologic services includes primary care, family planning, abortion care, prenatal through delivery care, midwifery and referrals for doula services, postpartum care, breastfeeding and lactation services, breast exams, nutrition, behavioral health referrals, preventive care, and vaccinations. Nearly 16,000 children are born at NYC Health + Hospitals each year. Gynecology services include menopause and fibroid treatments, as well as specialty practices for gynecologic cancers, pelvic pain, and endometriosis. Patients wishing to make an appointment can call 844-NYC-4NYC.

In January 2024, following his State of the City address, Mayor Adams announced “Women Forward NYC.” Supported through city dollars, private and public partnerships, academic institutions, and federal grant funding, the action 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.

“Substance abuse and addiction do not only affect individuals; children are particularly vulnerable to the secondary effects,” said New York State Senator José M. Serrano. “The services that this clinic aims to provide will help address the wide-ranging impacts of substance-use disorder on both mothers and children, helping families break free from the grip of substance abuse.”

“As the daughter of doctors who worked in drug addiction medicine, I have seen firsthand how escaping substance abuse saves lives,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “A new perinatal substance use disorder clinic in the Bronx, the borough with the highest overdose death rate, marks a revolutionary step forward in maternal health. Pregnancy is meant to be a time of joy for families, and substance use treatment for expecting parents will keep addiction from casting a shadow over such a beautiful occasion. This clinic will also help us reach our dual goals of reducing maternal mortality and opioid deaths. Today we bring this gift to thousands of parents in the Bronx.”

“The substance use disorder clinic at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln will address the dual crisis of the opioid epidemic and maternal mortality and morbidity,” said New York State Assemblymember Yudelka Tapia. “The Bronx has been uniquely impacted by these crises with the highest opioid overdose of any borough and a maternal mortality rate that is double the citywide rate. Creating a safe and supportive place is critical in ensuring pregnant and postpartum individuals can access health care services and community-based supports.”

MAYOR ADAMS SIGNS TWO PIECES OF LEGISLATION, EXTENDING CITY’S RENT STABILIZATION LAWS, HONORING LATE PUBLIC SERVANT PAUL VALLONE

Intro. 0653-A Extends NYC’s Rent Stabilization Law of 1969 for Three Years

Intro. 0001-B Designates Animal Care Centers of NYC Facility in Queens to Be Named “Paul A. Vallone Queens Animal Care Center”

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today signed two pieces of legislation — one to extend the New York City Rent Stabilization Law of 1969 and another honoring late public servant Paul A. Vallone by naming the Animal Care Centers (ACC) of NYC facility in Queens the “Paul A. Vallone Queens Animal Care Center.”

In response to the New York City Department of Housing and Preservation Development’s (HPD) Housing Vacancy Survey, highlighting a historically low 1.4 percent rental vacancy rate, Intro. 0653-A, extends the city’s vital rent stabilization law to April 1, 2027 and underscores the need for support from all levels of government to build more housing in New York City.

Intro. 0001-B honors public servant Paul Vallone — who passed away on January 28, 2024, and served as deputy commissioner for external affairs at the New York City Department of Veterans Services (DVS) and previously represented District 19 in Queens in the New York City Council — by naming an ACC location in Queens after him. As a councilmember, Vallone was a champion for animal welfare and advocated for improving the conditions for animals in New York City.

“Our rent stabilization laws are critical to the security of working-class New Yorkers who live in rent-stabilized housing. With a historic-low 1.4 percent vacancy rate, our administration again calls on our colleagues in Albany to say ‘yes’ to more affordable housing, and to help us deliver more housing for the city and our state,” said Mayor Adams. “Paul Vallone was a longtime friend, but, more importantly, a true public servant who served our city throughout his career. Over his time in office, the blue-collar community Paul represented knew they had a fighter from the neighborhood representing them at City Hall. He was a committed advocate for veterans, serving those who have served our country, and fought to protect animal welfare. The Paul A. Vallone Queens Animal Care Center will forever cement his legacy to public service.”

“Our city is facing a housing emergency with a dire shortage of available homes that impacts all New Yorkers. The signing of this legislation into law extends the New York City Rent Stabilization Law of 1969 to ensure rent regulation protections can continue unimpeded within our city,” said Speaker Adams. “We all must remain focused on pursuing the many necessary solutions to confront the housing crisis that makes our city less affordable to all New Yorkers. I’m also proud of my legislation to rename the Animal Care Center in Queens after former New York City Councilmember Paul Vallone. A passionate advocate for animals and their welfare, former Councilmember Vallone was pivotal in the passage of a law requiring full-service animal shelters in every borough. This renaming is a fitting tribute to his longstanding commitment to animals and our entire city.”

“Our severe housing crisis is evident by the historic low vacancy rate from the 2023 Housing Vacancy Survey and the pressures New York City renters are facing every day as they try to find safe, affordable housing across the five boroughs,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “Declaring a housing emergency to extend and protect rent stabilization, while also working collaboratively with our legislative partners to turn the tide on our decades-long housing crisis, is essential to ensuring that we can continue to be a city accessible for all. I thank Speaker Adrienne Adams, Housing and Buildings Chair Pierina Sanchez, and the entire City Council for their leadership in this effort. I am also heartened to see our friend, the late Councilmember Paul A. Vallone, honored in ensuring future generations know about his commitment to New York City.”

“Today’s bill signing is not a moment to celebrate, but a moment to double down on efforts to fix the city’s housing crisis once and for all. Not in the future, not in the next legislative session, but this year,” said HPD Commissioner Adolfo Carrión Jr. “Declaring a housing emergency and extending rent stabilization another three years is a necessary step to protect some of the most vulnerable renters from unaffordable rent increases, but it does not get us out of this crisis. Today and every day, we are renewing our calls for all levels of government to step up and deliver the tools we need to build housing at the scale this crisis demands. Everyone must step up.”

“As we reflect on the life and legacy of our colleague and friend, Paul Vallone, it is both an honor and a privilege to witness the establishment of the Paul A. Vallone Queens Animal Care Center with this legislation,” said DVS Commissioner James Hendon. “Paul’s commitment to improving welfare of animals across this city, coupled with his parallel dedication to our veterans, is a testament to his remarkable character and I am humbled to have had the opportunity to serve alongside him.”

“Paul Vallone dedicated much of his life and public service to the well-being of animals and ensuring each borough has a full-service animal shelter — furthering his family’s legacy and remaining an inspiration to us all,” said New York City Mayor’s Office of Animal Welfare Director Alexandra Silver. “Once the bright, welcoming new Animal Care Center bearing Paul Vallone’s name opens later this year, Queens will have an animal shelter that reflects his and our city’s humanity.”

Intro. 0653-A — sponsored by New York City Councilmember Pierina Sanchez — underscores the Adams administration’s urgent calls for action at every level of government to combat the housing crisis as state lawmakers consider a package of new affordable housing tools and as the administration’s historic “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity” nears the start of the city’s public review process. To address this crisis, the administration has worked to use every tool at its disposal to accelerate housing production and deliver the affordability New Yorkers need and deserve. In 2023, Mayor Adams announced the city had closed on financing for the creation of an all-time record 14,227 new affordable homes and directly connected more New Yorkers to homes than ever before in the city’s history, bringing nearly 13,000 households into affordable units.

To accelerate housing production and deliver relief to New Yorkers, the Adams administration has advanced a number of creative solutions, including its “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity” proposal to build 100,000 additional homes through significant pro-housing reforms to the city’s zoning code; an office conversation accelerator; new proposed rules to streamline approvals for sustainable housing; and several pilot programs to help fund the creation of accessory dwelling units, help move New Yorkers out of shelters and into renovated apartments, and fuel mixed-income development in neighborhoods across the city; among other innovative efforts.

Intro. 0001-B — sponsored by New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams — will honor Paul A. Vallone and build on the administration’s efforts to support animal welfare across New York City. Last year, the administration broke ground on the new ACC in Baychester. The $92 million project — anticipated to open by the end of 2025 — will provide necessary animal care and adoption services in the Bronx that supports a safe, healthy, comfortable, and humane environment for animals, staff, and visitors. The ACC in the Bronx is one of several animal adoption and shelter projects the administration is working on throughout the city, including new facilities in Manhattan and Brooklyn. In October 2022, the city celebrated the completion of a new center on Staten Island. The new Paul A. Vallone Queens Animal Care Center will open by the end of 2024.

“Paul Vallone was a tremendous public servant,” said U.S. Representative Grace Meng. “He was a great person and a wonderful friend, and I continue to miss him. Naming this ACC location in his honor will be an outstanding way to remember an important part of his legacy which is his many years of advocating for animals, and championing animal welfare issues in our city. As somebody who has also fought to protect the well-being of animals, I am thrilled that this facility will bear his name. I thank Mayor Adams for signing this legislation and I thank Speaker Adams for sponsoring the measure. I cannot wait for the opening of the Paul A. Vallone Queens Animal Care Center!”

“Paul Vallone was an exceptional person,” said U.S. Representative Tom Suozi. “A loving husband, devoted father and model public servant – to recognize his contribution is all together fitting and proper.”

“Throughout his life, Paul Vallone was a stalwart champion for the fair treatment and well-being of animals,” said New York State Senator John Liu. “His work in the City Council led to the passage of landmark legislation that ensures the operation of a full service animal shelter in all five boroughs. Renaming the Queens Animal Care Center after Paul is just one of the many ways his compassion, dedication to animal welfare, and enduring legacy will live on for generations.”

“My friend and colleague Paul Vallone was a staunch supporter of animal welfare, and frequently hosted and attended pet adoption events throughout his council district sponsored by the Animal Care Centers of New York,” said New York State Assemblymember Ed Braunstein. “Paul was the heart and driving force behind establishing the Queens Animal Care Center to better serve the community, and I can think of no more fitting honor to his legacy. I celebrate this bittersweet co-naming with Mayor Adams, Speaker Adams, the Vallone family, and the entire City of New York.”

“Paul Vallone was a beloved friend to all who infused New York City politics with his civility, passion, and humanity,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “A champion for the welfare of all living creatures, he passed Local Law 123 that required full-service animal shelters in every borough. Renaming the Queens Animal Care Center in his memory is a fitting tribute to the man who championed animal welfare. Our furry friends bring us love and comfort, even in a city as bustling as New York. We must reciprocate that love by always caring for their wellbeing. Just as Paul was a friend to all, may his shelter be a safe haven for all animals in need.”

“With New York City in the throes of a housing crisis, we must move with the urgency of now to protect and expand our affordable housing stock. With the extension of our city’s rent stabilization law now official, it’s time to build in all corners of this borough. There is no time to waste,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “Secondly, anyone who had the incredible honor of calling Paul Vallone a friend, as I was proud to have had, knew that he was a devoted animal lover. His advocacy around animal welfare was second-to-none, and it is only right that his name be forever linked with the Animal Care Centers’ Queens location and the work done there on a daily basis.”

“New York’s intersecting crises of rising evictions, record homelessness and housing unaffordability are only worsening,” said Councilmember Sanchez. “The most recent housing vacancy survey highlights the lowest vacancy rate on record since the 1960s, showing a 1.4 percent vacancy rate with nearly 90 percent of unassisted low-income households severely rent burdened. As the demand for housing continues to surge and supply remains severely constrained, low-income and working-class New Yorkers are leaving in record numbers. In charting the path forward, we must increase housing supply to accommodate the city’s needed growth, invest in building upgrades and tenant protections so tenants can remain safely in their homes, and increase New Yorkers’ ability to afford their homes so they can stay and contribute to our city’s vibrancy. Thus, Intro. 653 and Reso. 256, which acknowledge the finding of a historically low vacancy rate of 1.4 percent, allow for the continuation of rent regulation in New York City, a necessary step in providing even a modicum of stability for nearly a million rent regulated city households.”

“As the chair of the New York City Council Health Committee and a Queens member of the city council, it is an honor to name the new ACC of NYC Center in Queens after former New York City Councilmember Paul Vallone,” said New York City Councilmember Lynn Schulman. “Paul was an amazing welfare advocate and champion, and there is no better way to memorialize his work than to add his name to a building that will stand as a welcoming beacon for vulnerable animals in his home borough.”

“The untimely passing of Paul A. Vallone came as a shock to the community,” said New York City Councilmember Vickie Paladino. “I am thrilled that we can honor him by renaming the ACC of NYC in Queens the Paul A. Vallone Queens Animal Care Center.”

“Paul lived a life of love and compassion in all of his public activities,” said New York City Councilmember James Gennaro. “He had no equal in that regard. The naming of this facility of compassion is the least that city government can do to honor Paul’s inspiring legacy.”

“Councilmember Vallone’s unwavering commitment to animal welfare and his instrumental role in advocating for improved conditions for New York City animals resonates deeply with the mission and values of everyone at ACC,” said Risa Weinstock, CEO, ACC of NYC. “This naming initiative not only honors his legacy, but also serves as a symbol of our collective dedication to creating a compassionate and supportive environment for the animals in our care.”

“Councilmember Paul Vallone was a dedicated and extremely effective champion for vulnerable people and animals throughout his time in the New York City Council. We grieve his loss and celebrate his legacy of humane laws and policies,” said Matt Bershadker, president and CEO, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. “Vallone played a critical role in leading efforts to establish full-service animal shelters in all five boroughs, and renaming the Queens shelter is a wonderful way to honor his commitment to animal welfare. We look forward to continuing to support our longtime partners at Animal Care Centers of NYC as they expand their services to help even more animals in need.”

MAYOR ADAMS UNVEILS PLAN TO HELP FAITH-BASED ORGANIZATIONS BUILD MORE AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN NYC

Part of ‘City of Yes’ Proposal to Modernize Outdated Zoning Laws, Initiative Makes it Easier for Faith- Based Organizations to Deliver Critically-Needed Affordable Housing

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced additional details in his plan to help faith-based organizations and other mission-based nonprofits build critically-needed affordable housing across the five boroughs. As a key proposal in the Adams administration’s historic “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity” plan — a proposed set of zoning changes that aims to combat the city’s housing crisis by adding “a little more housing in every neighborhood” — the plan will unlock the ability for faith-based organizations to add new housing on their property and generate income for their organizations by updating zoning laws to make it easier to create much-needed new housing on their property or convert older buildings to housing. As New York City faces a generational housing crisis with a 1.4 percent rental vacancy rate, the Adams administration is proposing bold, forward-thinking solutions to deliver the housing that New Yorkers need. The Adams administration’s City of Yes for Housing Opportunity proposal will enter public review this spring and be voted on by the New York City Council by the end of the year.

“Our administration is throwing open the door to new solutions and new housing that will help us solve the housing crisis by working with our churches, synagogues, mosques, and other faith-based organizations,” said Mayor Adams. “Today, we are saying ‘yes in God’s backyard,’ and enabling faith-based organizations and non-profits to convert old convents, school buildings, and other properties into desperately-needed housing. Faith leaders remain on the frontlines of countless issues and now they will play an even more active role in building more housing and reclaiming our city for working-class New Yorkers. This is a fight for the soul of our city. So it’s fitting to engage so many leaders who not only understand our housing crisis, but stand ready to help solve it.”

“New York’s decades-long housing crisis is at one of the most severe points in our city’s history, but ‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity’ offers a simple yet sweeping idea: solve our housing shortage by adding a little more housing in every neighborhood,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “We must leave no stone unturned in making our city more affordable, including locations where faith-based and mission-driven organizations are critical partners. Our churches, mosques, and synagogues have the land and the will to build — it’s time we let them.”

“Faith-based organizations are on the frontlines of our housing crisis, feeling its impact on their congregations and providing critical services to New Yorkers in need,” said New York City Department of City Planning (DCP) Director and City Planning Commission (CPC) Chair Dan Garodnick. “When our trusted community leaders and faith-based organization partners want to step up and provide much-needed affordable housing, we should be doing everything we can to support them — not throwing up barriers. ‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity’ would support faith-based and other mission-oriented organizations as critical partners to address our housing crisis.”

“Faith-based organizations provide critical services to New Yorkers across our many neighborhoods, yet many have been severely challenged by the consequences of our housing shortage,” said Executive Director for Housing Leila Bozorg. “As we work to unlock ‘a little more housing in every neighborhood’ through our ‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity’ proposal, it’s important that we make it as easy as possible for faith-based organizations to say, ‘yes in God’s backyard’ — leveraging the assets they have to build more homes and thereby ease the burden of our housing crises for all our neighbors.”

“For far too long, efforts to create and provide affordable housing, has been nothing less than a ‘City of No,’” said Mayor’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Partnerships Executive Director Pastor Gilford T. Monrose. “Myriad outdated zoning requirements have stymied our ability to think creatively and provide the avenues for our faith-based institutions to efficiently utilize their facilities in a manner that can provide for the development and availability of severely needed affordable housing. I both thank and commend Mayor Adams for making what has been a ‘City of No’ into a ‘City of Yes.’ All of us in the faith-based community welcome the zoning changes, and review by the DCP, and look forward to working with community boards and other local interest groups in expanding housing opportunities for both homeless and low-income New Yorkers.”

“We’re focused on one major goal: getting the tools we need to create more affordable housing,” said New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development Commissioner Adolfo Carrión Jr. “With our city in crisis and the fewest homes available in over 50 years, we must explore every possible solution and that includes changing outdated, arbitrary zoning laws. The faith community already serves our city in so many ways and they’re ready to step up to create affordable housing on their own land. We need to say ‘yes’ everywhere! ‘Yes’ to affordable housing! ‘Yes’ to a future where all families can afford to live in the greatest city on earth!”

City of Yes for Housing Opportunity supports faith-based organizations by lifting arbitrary, outdated zoning laws that prevent campuses — large lots, frequently with multiple buildings on them — from using existing development rights to create new housing on available land. The proposal will enable organizations to convert their underused properties, including convents and school buildings, into housing anywhere in New York City where residential use is allowed. It will also grant community facilities, like faith-based organizations, the ability to develop more housing by providing additional development rights and flexibility. Finally, City of Yes for Housing Opportunity will expand the Landmarks Transferable Development Rights program, which enables landmarked buildings to transfer unused development rights to nearby sites, making it easier for landmarked religious institutions to raise urgently needed funds, all while delivering more housing to New Yorkers.

To support faith-based organizations as they provide critical services to New Yorkers, City of Yes for Housing Opportunity will make it easier to deliver affordable housing to their local communities and bring in additional revenue for repairs and new facilities, while lowering the cost of living and helping longtime congregants stay near their houses of worship. The Adams administration has worked closely with the faith community in developing the City of Yes for Housing Opportunity plan and other innovative housing policies, including providing faith-based organizations with the education and resources they need to launch their affordable housing projects and connections to experts to guide them through the development process, through the New York City Mayor’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Partnerships and the Adams administration’s Working Group on Faith-Based Affordable Housing and Community Development.

City of Yes for Housing Opportunity is the most pro-housing set of zoning changes in New York’s history. City of Yes for Housing Opportunity also includes lifting arbitrary and costly parking mandates for new residential construction; the Universal Affordability Preference, a bonus allowing roughly 20 percent more housing in developments, so long as the additional homes are affordable; 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, respectively; and allowing homeowners to add accessory homes like backyard cottages.

City of Yes for Housing Opportunity is the third of the Adams administration’s three “City of Yes” initiatives to update New York City’s zoning for a more sustainable, prosperous, and affordable city. The first — “City of Yes for Carbon Neutrality”— was adopted by the City Council in December. The second — “City of Yes for Economic Opportunity” was approved by the CPC on March 6 and is being considered by the City Council.

“Confronting New York’s housing crisis requires innovative solutions and equitable contributions to produce more homes in every part of the city,” said New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams. “Churches and houses of worship can contribute to the city’s housing goals, while being strengthened by the opportunity to develop housing, and citywide zoning changes that facilitate this outcome are important to consider. It is imperative for us to engage all institutions and stakeholders in the efforts to address our housing crisis.”

“Mayor Adams and I know that our religious institutions are deeply rooted in communities across the city and state,” said New York State Assemblymember Brian Cunningham. “As community conveners, they can play a key role in meeting New York’s housing needs. I am proud to sponsor the Faith-Based Affordable Housing Act in Albany, and wholeheartedly support the mayor’s efforts to empower faith organizations to build affordable housing in New York City.”

“To tackle New York’s affordable housing crisis, we need to use all the tools in our toolkit,” said New York State Senator Andrew Gounardes. “By enabling religious institutions to develop affordable housing, we’re empowering them to serve New York’s most vulnerable while ensuring their own financial stability, too. This proposal by Mayor Adams complements my own statewide Faith-Based Affordable Housing Act, and I’m grateful for his administration’s efforts to ensure all New Yorkers have an affordable place to live.”

“In echoing Jesus’ mission to shelter those in need, ‘Yes in God’s Backyard’ stands as a beacon of compassion,” said New York State Senator James Sanders Jr. “I applaud our churches and Mayor Adams for unlocking this vital path to creating more affordable housing. We must also recognize the importance of coordinating and harmonizing these efforts with the local community.”

“In a city where half of renters are rent burdened, we must think outside the box and utilize every resource to provide affordable housing for New Yorkers,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “The groundbreaking ‘Yes in God’s Backyard’ plan taps into one of the most dynamic and compassionate cross-sections of New York City: our faith community. Whether mosque or church or synagogue or temple or gurdwara, our houses of worship have always opened their doors to everyone in need. These institutions will now serve the people of our city in a new way by creating affordable housing on their properties. In Albany, I am fighting to pass comprehensive legislation to produce more affordable housing. Today’s initiative is part of our plan to use every tool in the arsenal so that all New Yorkers have stable, affordable housing.”

“We must leave no stone unturned in addressing the city’s housing crisis and ensuring our families have an affordable place to call home,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “We’re grateful to our faith-based organizations who have expressed a desire to help house our neighbors, and I look forward to working with the administration on the ‘Yes in God’s Backyard’ program as we continue to address this crisis.”

“Faith leaders all over Brooklyn are searching for opportunities to reimagine their properties on behalf of the greater good, and the mayor’s ‘Yes in God’s Backyard’ plan will help enable them to do just that by developing new and affordable housing,” said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. “It is clear that our city needs more housing, and we need it fast. This plan recognizes that it’s not enough to solely convert existing spaces into housing — we must also clear the path for new development on available land. I’m so grateful to our faith leaders who have long been leading by example, offering up every inch of space they have toward supporting our communities, and I thank Mayor Adams for seeking to chip away at barriers to new housing growth.”

“Tackling New York City’s housing crisis requires using every tool at our disposal. That includes pillars in communities like faith-based organizations that want to do good by creating more housing,” said Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine. “I’m happy to see the city opening the door for even more organizations to get involved in solving our housing crisis.”

MAYOR ADAMS COMPLETES CITYWIDE EXPANSION OF LIFESTYLE MEDICINE PROGRAM, NEW SITE LAUNCHES TODAY IN SOUTH BRONX

Citywide Lifestyle Medicine Program Can Accommodate Nearly 4,000 Patients per Year

Program Provides Patients Tools to Make Healthy Lifestyle Changes,

Including Access to Plant-Based Diet Resources and One-On-One Counseling

Adults Living With Prediabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, High Blood Pressure,

Heart Disease, or Health Concerns Related to Excess Weight Eligible to Enroll

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and NYC Health + Hospitals today announced its nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Program has launched a new location at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln, marking the first time the program is available in the South Bronx. The program is now active at seven sites across the five boroughs, with six new locations previously launched: NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi in the Bronx; NYC Health + Hospitals/Woodhull and NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County in Brooklyn; NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst in Queens; and NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, Vanderbilt on Staten Island. The pilot program — launched at NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue in 2019 with the support of then-Brooklyn Borough President Adams — has already served hundreds of patients. Together, the program’s seven sites will serve approximately 4,000 patients each year, providing them with tools and support to prevent and manage common chronic conditions, such as Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.

The Lifestyle Medicine Program’s team supports patients in making evidence-based lifestyle changes, including a healthful plant-based diet, increased physical activity, improved sleep habits, stress reduction, avoidance of substance use, and stronger social connections. Adults living with prediabetes, Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or health concerns related to excess weight are eligible to enroll.

“Today, we are again sending a clear message that New York City will not stand by and keep feeding the chronic disease crisis,” said Mayor Adams. “This is personal for me: I have seen up close how chronic disease can hijack your life. My mother reversed her Type 2 diabetes thanks in part to a plant-based diet and lifestyle changes, and a plant-based lifestyle helped save my life. Pill boxes, prescriptions, injections, and endless appointments should not define the lives of New Yorkers. Now, families in the South Bronx, and across New York City, will have access to the care they need. New York City is leading the nation by expanding these lifestyle medicine programs, and, together, we are building a healthier, more prosperous future for all.”

“We all have a loved one, family member, colleague, or friend that has a diet-related chronic condition like heart disease or Type 2 diabetes,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “That’s why today’s announcement is so remarkable; our Lifestyle Medicine Program, now in every borough of the city, gives people hope to not just manage their condition but potentially bring that condition into remission. Thank you to the teams executing this work and for doing so with an equity-focused approach tailored to each community.”

“I am so excited to celebrate the city’s latest lifestyle medicine site,” said Mayor’s Office of Food Policy Executive Director Kate MacKenzie. “The evidence is clear that lifestyle medicine programming is helping patients treat chronic and diet-related diseases. Core tenets of the program, such as produce ‘prescriptions’ and nutrition counseling are also helping combat nutrition insecurity in our city. This fantastic addition to the Mott Haven community of this program at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln demonstrates our administration’s fierce commitment to equitable access to health care and to ensuring that New Yorkers in the Bronx, and all over the city, have the tools they need to live long and healthy lives.”

“I am thrilled to celebrate the launch of the Lifestyle Medicine Program at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln,” said Michelle McMacken, MD, FACP, DipABLM, executive director of nutrition and lifestyle medicine, NYC Health + Hospitals. “Healthy lifestyle behaviors are foundational to preventing and treating common chronic conditions, such as Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. The Lifestyle Medicine Program’s talented interdisciplinary team will provide patients with the guidance they need to adopt healthier habits, while also helping to address food insecurity and other key barriers to lifestyle changes. Kudos to NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln for offering this invaluable resource to patients and the community.”

“The launch of the Lifestyle Medicine Program is an outstanding development in NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln’s capacity building to engage our patients and community to continue to improve our health outcomes,” said Akinola Fisher, MD, chief of ambulatory care, NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln. “Healthy lifestyle behaviors with regards to what we eat, especially if we adopt plant-based nutrition, the activity we engage in, and improved sleep, go a long way to preventing and improving control of blood pressure, diabetes, and other chronic diseases. The multidisciplinary team of the Lifestyle Medicine Program, collaborating with our patients and community partners, will help guide and coach adoption of healthy behaviors to continue to improve our chronic illness control and overall health outcomes.”

“The underlying causes of most of the chronic medical conditions that our patients, families, and at times ourselves face like hypertension, Type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and fatty liver disease are due to risk factors that can be modified with lifestyle changes such as healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, restorative sleep, stress management, avoidance of risky substances, and positive social connections,” said Carmen Oviedo Hilario, MD, medical director, Lifestyle Medicine Program, NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln. “These behavior modifications are the foundation of the Lifestyle Medicine practice. Recognizing the impact of lifestyle habits in our health and adopting these healthy behaviors have proven to be effective in the prevention, management and at times remission of chronic diseases. Our goal with the implementation of this program in our hospital is that we get to motivate, empower, and support our patients and their families to adopt and maintain behaviors that will improve their health and quality of life and lead them to happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.”

The Lifestyle Medicine Program at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln can accommodate 48 new patients each month, and the care team includes physicians, a nurse practitioner, a dietitian, a health coach, a program coordinator, a psychologist, community health workers, and an exercise trainer. Current patients of NYC Health + Hospitals can get a referral to the program from their provider, and people who are not yet patients of NYC Health + Hospitals can see if they qualify to enroll in the program by contacting 347-507-3695.

The nine-month lifestyle medicine program provides every patient with the following resources:

Six to nine one-on-one counseling sessions: Patients will have two to three visits each with a physician, nurse practitioner or certified nurse midwife, a dietitian, and a health coach to develop and implement a personalized care plan.
14 weekly group classes: Topics will include reading nutrition labels, grocery shopping, meal planning and preparation, and sleep and stress management techniques.
Eight weekly exercise classes: Patients will work with an exercise trainer and take home a resistance band for strength training.
Six free, monthly deliveries of seasonal fresh produce: Patients will work with dietitians to learn about incorporating fruits and vegetables into their diet across culinary traditions and skill levels. Delicious and healthy recipes developed by the team’s dietitians will accompany each produce box. This offering will launch in early 2024.
Health Bucks: Patients will have access to Health Bucks, $2 coupons that can be used to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at New York City farmers’ markets. Five of the seven program sites have farmers’ markets on their campus.
Culinary skills videos: Patients can learn new culinary skills through short videos developed by NYC Health + Hospitals, in partnership with an online culinary school Rouxbe. The videos will feature healthy cooking across various culinary traditions, including Caribbean, South American, Central American, and South Asian, and will be translated into Spanish, Mandarin, Bengali, and Haitian Creole. This offering will launch in summer 2024.
A plant-based cookbook: Cookbooks on plant-based eating for Type 2 diabetes will be available.
Support accessing benefits: Community health workers and food navigator referrals will help eligible patients access Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits and nutrition resources.

Each site will partner with local community-based organizations to explore ways to support community members as they improve their nutrition, as well as make other lifestyle changes. The Lifestyle Medicine Program at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln will collaborate with the Mott Haven Community Partnership.

“Mott Haven is the poorest congressional district in the country, and many families struggle to eat healthy because they cannot afford fresh vegetables,” said Nahomy Vasquez, community outreach specialist; and host, ‘Coffee with Mott Haven,’ Mott Haven Community Partnership (MHCP). “We have high hopes for the Bronx and our families. MHCP’s dedication to addressing food insecurity, improving the lives of Mott Haven families, and making resources available to residents is why partnering with lifestyle medicine is crucial to our mission. Both organizations focus on preventive measures, and this collaboration will help us directly impact the health journey of these families. We believe in our partnership with residents, and our commitment to them is to help them be informed so they can make better decisions for themselves and their families. Knowing that we can count on the lifestyle medicine partnership to deliver on our promise to families makes me happy and excited for the opportunity to begin this journey together.”

Particular attention has been placed on ensuring that the program is relevant for patients from diverse backgrounds and experiences. For example, the Spanish-language curriculum reflects cultural adaptations, not simply a translation of the English-language version, and individual visits with the medical providers, dietitians, and health coaches allow for tailored behavior change recommendations based on each patient’s social, financial, cultural, and family context.

Formal evaluations of the Bellevue pilot program revealed a successful implementation process, extremely high demand for services, and positive health outcomes, including clinically and statistically significant improvements in weight, glycemic control, and diastolic blood pressure.

In addition to the citywide Lifestyle Medicine expansion, Mayor Adams continues to advance a larger strategy around plant-based nutrition and further integration of Lifestyle Medicine into health care more broadly. In December 2022, Mayor Adams announced a partnership with the Mayor’s Office and the American College of Lifestyle Medicine to offer every health care practitioner across New York City free foundational training in the principles of lifestyle medicine, with a particular focus on plant-based nutrition. Additionally, in June 2023, Mayor Adams advanced a resolution at the U.S. Conference of Mayors that was adopted and detailed the administration’s work across school food, the Lifestyle Medicine Program expansion, and in-patient plant-based meals at city run hospitals.

“Our historic launch of the Lifestyle Medicine Program at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln is a revolutionary step forward in health care,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “A plant-based diet and other lifestyle changes can be more effective than any prescription in tackling health challenges. Now, we are sharing that lifesaving knowledge with the entire city. A plant-based diet can remedy obesity, hypertension, Type 2 diabetes, and a host of other illnesses, while reducing risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease. I am fighting for the healthy lifestyle with my legislation at the state level to require all schools in the state to offer plant-based meals, and today, we are introducing it to the people of the South Bronx. By encouraging the preventative measures of plants before pills, meditation before medical procedures, and social connections before surgery, we are helping all New Yorkers lead healthier, happier lives.”

“Through the citywide expansion of its nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Program, New York City has set the standard for empowering and supporting the individuals and families who live there to transform their health through lifestyle behavior changes,” said Beth Frates, MD, FACLM, DipABLM, ACLM, president and clinical assistant professor at Harvard Medical School. “It is my hope that health leaders in other cities recognize that patients are practically beating down the doors to access lifestyle medicine and finally get help addressing the root causes of their chronic diseases rather than just the symptoms. Lifestyle medicine is truly the medicine that people want and that they deserve.”

“Mayor Adams and the NYC Health + Hospitals system have established a state-of-the-art program that will improve the health of individuals and their communities, reduce long-term risks, boost employee morale, and save money,” said Neal D. Barnard, MD, FACC, president, Physicians Committee. “It will serve as a model for every other health care system.”

“The lifestyle medicine clinics at NYC Health + Hospitals serve as a prime example nationwide,” said Dr. Michael Greger, MD, FACLM, host, Nutrition Facts. “They focus on treating the underlying causes of lifestyle-related diseases, paving the way for effective health care solutions.”

“As a native New Yorker, I proudly applaud Mayor Adams and team for opening a Lifestyle Medicine Program in the South Bronx and in every borough across the city,” said VADM (Ret.) Richard Carmona, M.D., M.P.H., FACS, 17^th Surgeon General of the United States and Distinguished Laureate Professor, University of Arizona. “These programs have the potential to improve the quality and quantity of life while reducing health care costs.”

“Plant-based nutrition can prevent and reverse chronic health conditions that affect people’s quality of life and life expectancy,” said Robert Ostfeld, M.D., MSc., director, preventive cardiology, Montefiore. “Lifestyle Medicine Programs ensure New York City residents, especially in neighborhoods with disproportionately high rates of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, have access to resources that will help them and future generations live healthier lives. That benefits everybody.”

“Kudos to the Adams administration for working to ensure all New Yorkers have access to this innovative program, now offered citywide,” said Ann Kurth, PhD, CNM, MPH, president, The New York Academy of Medicine. “The foundations of this approach — supporting a plant-forward diet, exercise, sleep, stress management, substance use reduction, and positive social connection — are ‘good medicine’ to reduce the burden of chronic diseases and a longer healthspan for all including in the era of climate change.”

“New York City’s lifestyle medicine program is not just a national, but an international, example, bringing access to life-changing medical, nutritional, exercise and other key supports that absolutely change health to low-income people who usually cannot obtain these interventions,” said Chris Norwood, executive director, Health People. “The program’s success in reducing weight, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure only shows how effective it is. But most important, it is bringing real interventions to those who have been left behind in the ever-growing scourge of diabetes and other chronic disease, showing people that change is possible for them, and they can now hope for good health where they thought that was not possible. Locating this program throughout the public hospital system has made it highly accessible. In this respect, its impact is not just on the patients but on communities who now know change can happen.”

MAYOR ADAMS DEMANDS WATER BILL DODGERS TO PAY DEBT OR RISK LOSING WATER ACCESS

City to Issue 2,400 Water Shutoff Notices to Chronically-Delinquent Customers Who Owe Total of $102 Million in Unpaid Water Bills

Customers Failed to Take Advantage of Water Bill Amnesty Program, Which Brought In $105 Million and Saved More Than 100,000 New Yorkers $22 Million in Interest

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala today announced that the city has initiated the next phase of its expanded collection enforcement actions against approximately 2,400 chronically-delinquent water service accounts that owe the city a total of $102 million. As part of the effort, DEP will send out ‘Water Shutoff Notices’ to these customers, informing them that water service to their property could be shut off unless the entire owed amount is paid or they enter into a payment agreement within the next 15 days. This enforcement action is targeted towards commercial properties, including hotels, office buildings, and retail spaces, as well as one-to-three family homes that have not responded to any of DEP’s extensive outreach efforts over the past year. Earlier this year, DEP sent out ‘Water Shutoff Warning’ letters, which resulted in the agency recouping more than $3 million dollars from more than 400 overdue accounts.

“We gave these delinquent customers a chance to clear their water debts and save millions on interest through our water amnesty program, and while more than 100,000 took us up on our reasonable offer, a small percentage of customers incorrectly made the mistake of thinking they could get away with stiffing their fellow New Yorkers without any accountability,” said Mayor Adams. “We’re not going to allow big commercial properties and others leave the rest of us holding their water bills. DEP is sending ‘Water Shutoff Notices’ to 2,400 chronically-delinquent customers who owe over $102 million in unpaid bills. While we aim to work with these customers one last time, we will not look away while landlords and property owners ignore their obligations to their neighbors and their city.”

“DEP is serious about collecting the outstanding money owed from delinquent accounts and we will be shutting off water service for customers that don’t resolve their overdue bills,” said DEP Commissioner Aggarwala. “Delinquent customers who refuse to pay their water bills force everyone else to pay higher rates. That is simply not right, and it must stop. Everyone must pay their fair share to support our critical water system.”

During the pandemic, DEP saw a significant increase in the number and balance of delinquent accounts. The total of delinquent payments nearly doubled to $1.2 billion, which threatened the operations and capital needs of a service the city could not survive without. In 2023, DEP initiated a successful amnesty program that helped more than 100,000 New Yorkers reduce their water bill debts, while saving them more than $22 million in interest. Of the nearly 200,000 customers who owed money on late water bills when the program started, more than 50 percent participated in the popular program — bringing in nearly $105 million in payments from substantially past due accounts. To help low-income customers, during the amnesty program, DEP granted $8 million in additional billing credits to those accounts that had participated in New York state’s Low Income Homeowner Water Assistance Program.

Shutting off water service can have serious consequences and may subject property owners to code violations by the New York City Department of Buildings, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, and the Fire Department of the City of New York, as well as the potential for an Order to Vacate the Premises. Water service shutoffs may also affect a property owner’s insurance policy and/or mortgage. Additionally, a loss of water could impact a property’s heating system; owners should consult whoever maintains the property’s boiler or furnace as to whether any special actions must be taken if there is a loss of water.

Money recouped through enforcement actions will be used by DEP to keep water rates low for all customers, and all bill payments are used to fund maintenance, upgrades, and repairs to almost 15,000 miles of water and sewer mains, 19 reservoirs, 12,000 rain gardens, and 14 wastewater resource recovery facilities. Nearly half the population of New York state enjoys New York City’s tap water.

Customers with chronically delinquent water bills who previously received a ‘Water Shutoff Warning’ letter in the mail are now receiving a ‘Water Shutoff Notice’ instructing them to resolve their outstanding balances or enter into a payment agreement with DEP within 15 days.

If balances are not resolved within that timeframe, DEP will begin the process of shutting off water service. Outstanding accounts will have a ‘Water Shutoff Notice’ posted on their property’s front door and the street or sidewalk in front of the property will be spray painted to indicate where the service line will be disconnected from the DEP water main. If water service is shut off, affected customers will be required to pay a $1,000 restoration fee and pay the past due balance in full, or enter into a payment agreement with a 25 percent down payment, in order to have their service restored.

Customers can make payments or enter into a payment agreement online, by calling 866-622-8292, paying in-person at a borough office, or by mailing in payment to the New York City Water Board. Convenience fees apply to credit/debit card payments, but no fee is charged by the Water Board if payment is made by a checking or savings account. DEP also offers a number of financial assistance programs to assist property owners in paying their water bills, including a leak forgiveness program and a multi-family water assistance program.

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES AGREEMENT WITH THE LEGAL AID SOCIETY IN CALLAHAN ‘RIGHT TO SHELTER’ MEDIATION, GRANTING CITY ADDITIONAL FLEXIBILITY DURING MIGRANT HUMANITARIAN CRISIS

WATCH: Mayor Adams Discusses How Agreement Provides Flexibility to Address National Humanitarian Crisis Where Approximately 183,000 Migrants Have Arrived in NYC in Less Than Two Years

City Has Argued Callahan Decree Was Never Intended to Apply to Extraordinary Circumstances City Currently Faces

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced that the City of New York has come to an agreement with The Legal Aid Society, providing the city additional flexibility under the 1981 consent decree in Callahan v. Carey, related to the city’s “Right to Shelter” during the current migration crisis. After months of negotiations — during which the city has continued to respond to the national humanitarian crisis without meaningful help from the federal government — the parties have come to an agreement that gives the city more tools to manage entries and exits of single adult migrants from the shelter system and ensure the city has the flexibility it needs to continue supporting vulnerable New Yorkers.

As the city has consistently argued, the Right to Shelter — put into place over 40 years ago when the city’s shelter system had fewer than 2,500 people in its care — compared to the 120,000 people, approximately 65,000 of which are migrants, currently in the city’s care — was never meant to apply to a national humanitarian crisis like the one New York City faces today.

“New York City has led the nation in responding to a national humanitarian crisis, providing shelter and care to approximately183,000 new arrivals since the spring of 2022, but we have been clear, from day one, that the ‘Right to Shelter’ was never intended to apply to a population larger than most U.S. cities descending on the five boroughs in less than two years,” said Mayor Adams. “Today’s stipulation acknowledges that reality and grants us additional flexibility during times of crisis, like the national humanitarian crisis we are currently experiencing. Thank you to the court and The Legal Aid Society, for recognizing that the status quo cannot continue and for giving New York City additional tools to address this crisis while ensuring that the most vulnerable can continue to receive the support they need. Like impacted cities across the country, we cannot bear the brunt of this crisis alone and continue to seek significant support from our federal partners, including expedited work authorizations, more funding, and a national resettlement strategy.”

“This agreement represents the tireless, good-faith efforts of the parties and the court to help address one of the biggest crises ever faced by the city,” said New York City Corporation Counsel Sylvia O. Hinds-Radix. “The reasonable plan outlined in this settlement significantly enhances the city’s ability to manage the extraordinary influx of people that have come into our care and will help stabilize our shelter system for those who need it.”

“We’ve approached this humanitarian crisis with humanity and the understanding that New York City is the greatest city in the world thanks to our immigrant communities,” said Chief of Staff Camille Joseph Varlack. “We’re incredibly proud of the work we’ve done to provide shelter and care to approximately 183,000 migrants over the course of the past two years. The agreement we’re entering into today reflects the unprecedented nature of this crisis and ensures that we can manage our shelter population while continuing to provide a safe landing spot for our newest arrivals to get on their feet and get on with their pursuit of the American Dream.”

“The stipulation gives our administration the flexibility it needs to manage this unprecedented humanitarian crisis,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “It also reminds us that without comprehensive and meaningful reform by Congress and the federal government, municipalities are left mostly alone to deal with this crisis. This is a national issue and will require a national response that engages federal, state, and local actors to find and implement solutions. One example of this is our legal clinics — done with federal and state support, these are examples of innovative models working best when every level of government has a role and a stake in the process.”

“When the original Callahan settlement was reached, no one could have foreseen the migrant crisis New York City has faced for the past two years,” said City Hall Chief Counsel Lisa Zornberg. “This new agreement reflects the reality we’re currently in and allows New York City to appropriately manage this crisis.”

Today’s stipulation relieves New York City of certain obligations under the Callahan decree during this declared State of Emergency. It allows the city to manage the influx of new arrivals, and provide adult migrants 30 days of shelter without the ability to re-apply for shelter unless the individual has demonstrated they have some sort of extenuating circumstance necessitating a short additional amount of time in shelter, or have received a reasonable accommodation due to a disability. To better support younger adult new arrivals, individuals under 23 years of age will be provided 60 days of shelter. Finally, the city will continue to provide reticketing services to help more people move out of shelter and continue their journeys towards self-sufficiency. The settlement applies only to adults seeking shelter and does not impact families with children.

Since this national humanitarian crisis began, New York City has taken fast and urgent action — opening up over 200 emergency sites. The city has also stood up navigation centers with support from community-based organizations to connect asylum seekers with critical resources; enrolled tens of thousands of children in public schools through Project Open Arms; and stood up, with funding from New York state, a first-of-its-kind Asylum Application Help Center through which the city has helped individuals submit approximately 40,000 asylum, Temporary Protected Status, and work authorization applications over the past eight months. The Adams administration continues to prioritize helping migrants live independently, without significant or timely state or federal assistance. As a result of the administration’s responsible policies — including providing 30 to 60 days of intensified case management — more than 60 percent of the asylum seekers who have come through the city’s intake center have left the city’s care and are taking the next steps in their journeys towards self-sufficiency.

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF NEW YORK CITY’S FIRST-EVER TENANT PROTECTION CABINET

Multi-Agency Cabinet to Develop Policies and Long-Term Strategies, Use Every Tool to Support Tenants, Ensure Safe, Fair Housing Conditions

Cabinet Delivers on Key Initiative Announced in Mayor Adams’ State of the City Address, Builds on Administration’s Policies and Investments to Support Tenants in New York City

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the launch of 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. Following the model of the successful New York City Cabinet for Older New Yorkers, the Tenant Protection Cabinet — co-chaired by Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer and New York City Executive Director for Housing Leila Bozorg — builds on the Adams administration’s record of investments and policies that uplift and support tenants across New York City, and was a key initiative of Mayor Adams’ State of the City address.

“Every day, New Yorkers work hard to build a better future for themselves, their kids and their families, but we cannot have a truly livable city with a housing and affordability crisis,” said Mayor Adams. “The data is clear: the demand to live in our city is far outpacing our ability to build housing, but we will not accept a city where renters are priced out of a chance to build their future. New Yorkers need our support now, and the Tenant Protection Cabinet is going to deliver it to them. Homes are more than brick and mortar — they are places where New Yorkers who rent can build their American Dreams. Together, this cabinet will work to deliver relief for tenants and working-class New Yorkers.”

“Protecting tenants is fundamental to our administration’s vision for housing, and we’re not only using every tool available, but also creating new ones to ensure all New Yorkers have recourse against bad landlords,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “Mayor Adams has pushed us to take a whole-of-government approach to fulfilling the needs of New Yorkers, and the Tenant Protection Cabinet brings together over two dozen agencies working on tenant issues to help New Yorkers better navigate the city’s resources, and have the safe, quality housing they deserve.”

“As a city with millions of tenants, it is crucial that New York City’s leaders come together to provide safe and stable housing for our renters,” said Executive Director Leila Bozorg. “This year, rents are high and our rental vacancy rate is at its lowest, making this a particularly hard time to find and stay in affordable, high-quality housing. As we continue to advocate in Albany for tools that allow us to build more homes, the Tenant Protection Cabinet will be working hard to develop policies and implement solutions that make it easier for tenants to navigate services and access the important supports the city offers. Thank you to all the city agencies who work hard day in and out to serve the many tenants who call New York home.”

The Tenant Protection Cabinet will facilitate better information sharing and coordination amongst agencies to:

Ensure that tenants are connected to the same information and resources regardless of the hotline or agency they contact;
Focus attention on underutilized tenant services to match New Yorkers with the supports they need; and
Use data strategically to identify and target areas of highest need, and track progress towards better, more stable housing for tenants.

The launch of the Tenant Protection Cabinet comes at a time of great urgency, following last month’s release of the New York City Housing and Vacancy Survey that found a clear disparity in housing quality by race/ethnicity of heads of household. The survey found that 23 percent of Black and 20 percent of Hispanic New Yorkers reported three or more problems with their housing, compared to 9 percent among those households headed by both a white New Yorker or Asian New Yorker. TPC aims to bolster resources and develop tenant supportive policies to ensure they are living in safe, fair housing conditions, regardless of race or income.

Today’s announcement is part of an ongoing commitment by the Adams administration to develop policies and invest in programs to support tenants. Last summer, the 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 recently 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.

This announcement also builds on the Adams administration’s advocacy for state lawmakers to consider a package of new affordable housing tools to help deliver relief to New Yorkers in the midst of a housing and affordability crisis. The administration continues to use every tool at its disposal to ease the pressure of the housing crisis, including launching a new $50 million initiative to help minority business enterprises developers overcome historical financial barriers and fully participate in the development of critically-needed affordable housing for New Yorkers.

The Tenant Protection Cabinet includes the following city offices:

New York City Mayor’s Office
Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY)
New York City Administration for Children’s Services (ACS)
New York City Commission on Human Rights (CCHR)
New York City Department for the Aging (DFTA)
New York City Department of Buildings (DOB)
New York City Department of Finance (DOF)
New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene
New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD)
New York City Department of Social Services (DSS)
New York City Department of Veterans Services (DVS)
New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD)
New York City Director of Rodent Mitigation
New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM)
New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA)
New York City Law Department
New York City Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice (MOCJ)
New York City Mayor’s Office of Equity and Racial Justice (MOERJ)
New York City Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs
New York City Mayor’s Office of Operations
New York City Mayor’s Office of Special Enforcement (OSE)
New York City Mayor’s Office of Technology Innovation
New York City Mayor’s Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence (ENDGBV)
New York City Police Department (NYPD)
PEU

To accelerate housing production and deliver relief to New Yorkers, the Adams administration has advanced a number of creative solutions, including launching its “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity” proposal to build 100,000 additional homes through significant pro-housing reforms to the city’s zoning code; laying out an office conversion accelerator to advance conversions more quickly; unveiling new proposed rules to streamline approvals for sustainable housing; and debuting several pilot programs to help fund the creation of accessory dwelling units, help move New Yorkers out of shelters and into renovated apartments, and help fuel mixed-income developments in neighborhoods across the city; among other innovative efforts.

New York City continues to face a serious housing shortage with a record-high shelter population totaling more than 120,000 individuals in the city’s care. But under Mayor Adams’ leadership, the city expanded the number of New Yorkers in shelter who are eligible to access city-funded rental assistance through City Family Homelessness and Eviction Prevention Supplement (CityFHEPS) housing vouchers, and then made further innovations to CityFHEPS to immediately and significantly expand access to the housing vouchers by allowing them to be utilized in any county or locality across New York state.

“New York City is committed to an upstream approach when supporting children and families, and, as part of that work, families must have access to a safe place to live where they can easily access the resources and support they need,” said ACS Commissioner Jess Dannhauser. “This new cabinet will help us to collaborate with our fellow agencies to work together and provide the highest level of service to families so that they can thrive.”

“Safe and stable housing is essential for communities to thrive. New York City has one of the broadest civil rights laws in the nation that protects New Yorkers from discrimination while in their home or in the process of finding one,” said CCHR Commissioner and Chair Annabel Palma. “This administration values teamwork and understands the importance of multi-agency collaboration. Together, as one city government, we can provide the essential services and resources to New Yorkers who need them.”

“As we continue building an age-inclusive city, housing remains among the most critical issues impacting all New Yorkers, including older ones,” said DFTA Commissioner Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez. “By bringing agencies together to help older adults remain in their apartments, they can continue living in the communities they know best. This model has worked for the Cabinet for Older New Yorkers, where we have taken significant steps to reduce ageism and ensure that older residents are aware of all available resources. I commend the administration’s deep commitment to taking a collaborative approach to the critically important issue of housing and look forward to working with my colleagues to continue this progress through in the newly-formed Tenant Protection Cabinet.”

“The creation of the city’s first-ever Tenant Protection Cabinet shows the administration’s commitment to supporting the fundamental rights of all tenants living in our city, and, at DOB, the commitment to protect New Yorkers from the clutches of negligent landlords remains paramount,” said DOB Commissioner Jimmy Oddo. “To that end, we look forward to working closely with our partners in the New York City Council to increase DOB’s access to new enforcement tools that will hold the worst actors accountable for their legal responsibilities to maintain their buildings. From the oversight of DOB’s Office of the Tenant Advocate to the enforcement of mandatory Tenant Protection Plans in occupied multiple dwellings, our mandate to safeguard tenants is resolute and joining this multi-agency cabinet will boost our efforts to advocate for the enhanced enforcement tools we need.”

“We are excited to be a part of the Tenant Protection Cabinet, partnering with city agencies to provide New Yorkers with better access to essential city resources and services,” said DOF Commissioner Preston Niblack. “At DOF, we are dedicated to helping eligible tenants receive the full benefits they are entitled to through programs such as the NYC Rent Freeze Program, which allows older adults and those with disabilities to stay in affordable housing. We look forward to joining in this multi-agency initiative to continue to elevate crucial programs and services, safeguard tenants, and promote housing stability in our city.”

“It’s simple, in the greatest city in the world, every tenant deserves protection from negligent landlords, harassment, and displacement,” said HPD Commissioner Adolfo Carrion Jr. “The new Tenant Protection Cabinet brings together leaders and experts to break down silos, streamline efforts, and find new solutions to keep families in their homes and keep those homes in safe and in good condition. Mayor Adams has given us a clear mission: make New York a stronger, better, and fairer city for tenants. Under the leadership of Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer and Executive Director for Housing Leila Bozorg, we are ready to make that mission a reality.”

“With the announcement of the first-ever Tenant Protection Cabinet, the Adams administration is reaffirming its commitment to New York City renters by taking meaningful action to improve access to the city’s robust and varied tenant supports,” said DSS Commissioner Molly Wasow Park. “DSS provides an array of vital housing supports, including rental assistance and no-cost legal representation to low-income New Yorkers in housing court, that help keep New Yorkers in their homes, and we look forward to working with Deputy Mayor Torres-Springer, Executive Director Bozorg, and the other members of the cabinet to bolster theses services and better assist New York City’s tenants.”

“Access to safe and fair housing is not just a basic need, it is a critical pillar of stability for all veterans, especially those making the transition to civilian life,” said DVS Commissioner James Hendon. “By ensuring equitable access to housing resources and addressing housing disparities, the Tenant Protection Cabinet not only supports the well-being of New Yorkers but also honors the sacrifices of those who served our nation.”

“DYCD’s role on the Tenant Protection Cabinet builds on our agency’s existing work through runaway and homeless youth and healthy families programs — connecting young people and adults to more stable housing and helping New Yorkers prevent eviction and housing discrimination,” said DYCD Commissioner Keith Howard. “Mayor Adams has a bold vision for fair, safe, and affordable housing, and DYCD is excited to join our agency partners in making sure it is a reality for all.”

“All New Yorkers deserve a living space that is pest free,” said Citywide Director of Rodent Mitigation Kathleen Corradi. “The Tenant Protection Cabinet will support and empower tenants to make this a reality. I look forward to collaborating, building more efficient systems, and delivering results for our city’s renters.”

“Homes, as critical lifelines to resilience, anchor New York City’s communities during emergencies, and the Tenant Protection Cabinet emphasizes housing’s role as an essential element in emergency readiness,” said NYCEM Commissioner Zach Iscol. “Under Mayor Adams’s administration, the Tenant Protection Cabinet will enhance coordination and resource sharing among city agencies, streamlining solutions and delivering real benefits to New Yorkers.”

“The city’s first-ever Tenant Protection Cabinet will serve as a collaborative conduit, connecting tenants to invaluable resources and ensuring safe and equitable conditions for residents,” said NYCHA Chief Executive Officer Lisa Bova-Hiatt. “We look forward to working in close coordination with Deputy Mayor Torres-Springer, Executive Director Bozorg, and our partner agencies to provide enhanced access to housing programs and services to New Yorkers, particularly NYCHA residents.”

“The establishment of the city’s Tenant Protection Cabinet is a win for the millions of tenants residing in our city,” said Corporation Counsel Sylvia O. Hinds-Radix. “The Law Department has a strong record of holding landlords accountable in court whenever they violate our housing laws and risk the safety of New Yorkers. We look forward to continuing that good work with our agency partners and furthering the goals of fairness and equity in housing through this comprehensive new initiative.”

“Safe and secure housing is a fundamental building block of public safety, and a critical part of this office’s mission,” said MOCJ Director Deanna Logan. “I look forward to working with our sister agencies to ensure that New York’s renters have access to essential city services, further demonstrating Mayor Adams‘s commitment to safety and fairness for all New Yorkers.”

“Access to safe, affordable, and secure housing is essential to our health, well-being, and social ties. We must ensure that every tenant, regardless of race or income, is protected and has access to the resources and support they need,” said Chief Equity Officer and MOERJ Commissioner Sideya Sherman. “We welcome the launch of the city’s first-ever Tenant Protection Cabinet, a major step forward in promoting problem-solving and collaboration across agencies to ensure all New Yorkers have access to the safe, quality housing they deserve.”

“The Tenant Protection Cabinet demonstrates this administration’s deep commitment to providing all New Yorkers with resources and support critical to safe and fair housing,” said Chief Technology Officer and OTI Commissioner Matthew Fraser. “As a trusted source of reliable information on city services and programs, including housing rules and tenant rights, NYC311 will be an invaluable contributor to the cabinet’s important mission.”

“The Mayor’s Office of Special Enforcement has a proven track record of collaborating with sister agencies to ensure housing is kept available to the tenants of New York City,” said OSE Executive Director Christian Klossner. “OSE is excited to see these efforts amplified by the enhanced coordination and effectiveness tenants can expect from the Tenant Protection Cabinet.”

“The men and women of the NYPD work hand-in-hand with our neighbors throughout the five boroughs every day, and we embrace this new multi-agency effort to ensure that all New York City tenants have safe, fair, and equitable access to the services they expect and deserve,” said NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban.

“The launch of the Tenant Protection Cabinet is a significant step forward in our mission to protect the rights of New York City’s tenants,” said PEU Executive Director Adrienne Lever. “I’m proud of the dedicated efforts of our Tenant Support Unit and Tenant Helpline in advocating for tenants across the city. Their grassroots outreach efforts have been essential in laying the groundwork for the Tenant Protection Cabinet, emphasizing the importance of collaborative approaches in addressing complex housing challenges.”

“As a formerly homeless New Yorker who has personally experienced the challenges of navigating housing instability, growing up in the South Bronx, and facing homelessness as a single parent, I am pleased to see the Adams administration, under the leadership of Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer, taking decisive action to prevent homelessness through a focus on tenant protections,” said Shams DaBaron aka “Da Homeless Hero.” “The launch of the city’s first-ever Tenant Protection Cabinet marks a significant step forward in ensuring that all New Yorkers have access to the support and resources they need to secure and maintain stable housing. The cabinet’s commitment to bringing together leaders from over two dozen agencies will streamline access to impactful services, help tenants more easily navigate city government, and provide much-needed support for working New Yorkers, ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight for safe, affordable housing. As a voucher holder myself, I am grateful for the opportunity to live in stable housing, and I commend the city for advocating for affordable housing in Albany while simultaneously taking action to protect tenants here in New York City. The Tenant Protection Cabinet represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to build a more equitable and compassionate city for all.”

“In our collective efforts to deliver more affordable housing to communities in need, we must not lose sight of the equally important work that is tenant and housing stability,” said Baaba Halm, vice president and market leader, Enterprise Community Partners. “Many renters across the city are struggling with rental arrears and rising housing costs, issues that require comprehensive programmatic and policy solutions. To that end, we applaud the creation of the Tenant Protection Cabinet and look forward to supporting its critical, cross-agency work to tackle these urgent issues.”

“The need for clear communication and strategic coordination between different city agencies is crucial to ensuring that tenant protection policies are actually implemented in a way that serves the people who need them most effectively,” said Aaron Carr, founder and executive director, Housing Rights Initiative. “We are hopeful that this new Tenant Protection Cabinet will provide a forum for exactly this type of interagency collaboration and we applaud City Hall for their decision to convene it.”

MAYOR ADAMS BOOSTS PAY FOR 80,000 HUMAN SERVICES WORKERS WITH $741 MILLION COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENT

Agreement Will Offer 9.27 Percent Increase Over Next Three Years

Commitment Builds on Administration’s Continued Efforts to Support Working-Class New Yorkers and Put Money Back in Their Pockets

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced a $741 million investment for an estimated 80,000 human services workers employed by non-profit organizations with a city contract as part of a new cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). The human services workforce — which is overwhelmingly female at 66 percent and 46 percent women of color — remains on the frontlines of the most pressing issues facing the city as they deliver vital services across housing, food access, health services, and asylum seeker services, among other areas. The Adams administration’s investment in a new COLA represents a critical step towards delivering pay equity across race and gender for a workforce that provides lifesaving services across the city. With today’s announcement, to date, the administration has invested over $1.4 billion towards wage enhancements for the human services sector.

“When things get tough, we must invest in our most valued asset: the people who are on the frontlines solving the most pressing issues facing our city,” said Mayor Adams. “Human service workers are the hands and heart of New York City, providing 24/7 work that benefits all New Yorkers. From navigating our city during the darkest days of COVID-19 to caring for asylum seekers to tackling our homelessness crisis and so much more, human service work is often tiring and thankless, but the workforce is essential to our city. I am proud that our administration is delivering human services workers the pay raise they deserve, and putting money back into their pockets. By offering fair pay, we are creating a fairer and more equitable city, especially for this largely women and women of color population, and ensuring that New York City is not just the greatest city in the world to live, but also the greatest place to work, especially for those who sacrifice so much to serve others.”

“Our nonprofit partners in health and human services are the lifeblood and economic engine of our city, and tirelessly work in partnership with the city to support New Yorkers,” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “This multi-year cost-of-living investment in our valued health and human services workforce is a crucial step for the sector. This work builds on the Adams administration’s commitment to equitably supporting our diverse workforce sectors across the city, to continue to clear the over $6 billion backlog of contract payments to our nonprofit providers we have already achieved, and provide direct relief to the more than 80,000 workers who serve our community every day.”

“Our human services workforce is comprised primarily of women, and specifically women of color. They are the underpinning of our not-for-profit workforce that complements and partners with New York City’s government in order to keep our city going,” said Chief Advisor to the Mayor Ingrid P. Lewis-Martin. “Our partnership is beyond measure because they take on so many of the tough jobs, and for too long, they have not received the compensation they deserve. This cost-of-living adjustment is a major step in the right direction. We are clear that this does not fully correct the sins of the past, but it is demonstrative of our commitment to move towards leveling the playing field, and it is a sign of our respect and full acknowledgment of their years of dedicated hard work in partnership with our city. These workers have our backs, particularly when we need them the most — and we’re going to have theirs.”

“Human service workers — like my grandmother, a midwife in Trinidad and Tobago, and my mother, a nurse, who worked around the clock to give my sister and me a better life — are the backbone of this city,” said Chief of Staff Camille Joseph Varlack. “This investment in these key workers — who are primarily women of color — is a recognition of how much they contribute to New Yorkers at every hour of every day.”

“Our frontline human services workers are tasked with supporting New Yorkers across their life cycle along the way to a better life for themselves and their families,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “In order to fulfill our vision where all New Yorkers are given the opportunity to thrive, we must respect, support, and fairly compensate our workers in this sector. Today’s announcement is an investment in each of our human services staff members, and an acknowledgement that in order to best serve all New Yorkers, we must invest in those who do that work.”

“During New York City’s most difficult moments, human service workers have been there to answer the call,” said Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Ana Almanzar. “From a global pandemic to a humanitarian asylum seeker crisis, and everything in between, human service workers have been on the frontlines, delivering care and services to those most in need. When I came to this country as an immigrant from the Dominican Republic, I saw firsthand their unwavering kindness and dedication to lending a helping hand to all. Today, I celebrate with them as they receive wages that reflect their commitment to our city.”

“Human service workers have been at the heart of New York City’s pandemic response and economic recovery, juggling the responsibilities of caring for New Yorkers in a variety of fields — from supportive housing services to workforce programs — in addition to their own families,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “Coming off the heels of the administration’s ‘Women Forward NYC’ action plan, these wage adjustments will impact the daily lives of our city’s human service workers, putting money into the pockets of working-class New Yorkers, driving the administration’s vision for an equitable recovery, and making sure our communities have the services they need.”

“To prioritize the wellbeing of lower income and vulnerable New Yorkers, we must also care for the people who care for them, who are overwhelmingly women and people of color,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “This cost-of-living raise helps ensure these are good, competitive jobs that attract, retain and reward quality talent.”

Building on a 7 percent workforce enhancement in the Fiscal Year 2024 Executive Budget, human services workers will see the following COLA:

3 percent effective July 1, 2024
3 percent effective July 1, 2025
3 percent effective July 1, 2026

Under Mayor Adams’ leadership, the city has made significant investments and enacted policies to support the human services workforce and put money back into the pockets of New Yorkers. The Adams administration worked with the Mayor’s Office of Contract Services (MOCS) on the the ‘Clear the Backlog’ initiative, now unlocking over $6 billion and allowing nonprofits to get paid for their vital services. Together with New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, MOCS, and the Mayor’s Office of Nonprofits, Mayor Adams announced a new reform for discretionary contracts that will eliminate red tape and make it easier for nonprofits that contract with the city to get paid on time. The innovative reform eliminates a total of nine months of discretionary, contracting processing time for nonprofits every year, beginning in the out-years for applicable contracts.

Additionally, Mayor Adams successfully fulfilled a campaign pledge to work with Albany lawmakers and secure an enhancement of the New York City Earned Income Tax Credit, benefitting over 800,000 families and strengthening the city’s social safety net. As part of “Accessible, Equitable, High-quality, Affordable: A Blueprint for Child Care & Early Childhood Education in New York City,” the Adams administration reduced 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 $4.80 a week.

Today’s announcement builds on the Adams administration’s continued efforts to support working-class New Yorkers. For the city’s workforce, in just two years, and a little more than a year after its first agreement with DC 37, the Adams administration has successfully negotiated contracts with unions representing nearly 95 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.

“Our essential human services workforce, the majority of whom are women and nearly half are women of color, deserves to be paid fairly for the critical services they provide for New Yorkers in every community,” said New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams. “Today’s announcement of a $741 million investment in cost-of-living adjustments for 80,000 human services workers represents an important step in the right direction towards fulfilling our obligation. The City Council has advocated for investing in this vital workforce and will continue to support building upon our commitments to ensure their success.”

“Human service workers and leaders have worked for years for this moment. This agreement – to provide a three percent cost-of-living adjustment in each of the next three years, along with a workforce enhancement – is a testament to their sacrifices in our city’s moments of need,” said Michelle Jackson, executive director, Human Services Council. “I’m proud to stand with the Just Pay movement and Mayor Adams in celebrating a fair deal that honors the tireless work of the sector and treats our workers as the essential pieces they are in the fabric of our communities.”

“This COLA is absolutely essential for an essential workforce that has long gone underrecognized,” said Dr. Damyn Kelly, president and chief executive officer, Lutheran Social Services of New York. “My staff and the over 80,000 human services in New York City are the second lowest paid workforce in the city because of decades of underinvestment. Human services jobs are good, caring, community jobs, often held by women and people of color. The people who do these jobs invest in our communities, and we are grateful Mayor Adams is investing in them.”

“We applaud the mayor’s office for funding a three percent cost-of-living adjustment each year for the next three years for the human services workforce,” said Wayne Ho, president & chief executive officer, Chinese-American Planning Council (CPC). “We thank the strong support of the New York City Council and the tireless advocacy of the Human Services Council and the Just Pay Campaign membership. I have seen firsthand the dedication and hard work that CPC’s human services workers pour into serving our community members day in and day out, and we are excited that the city is recognizing our workforce. We look forward to our ongoing partnership with the mayor’s office and city council to ensure that the human services workforce continues to be uplifted and supported.”

“Encore Community Services extends our gratitude to the thousands of dedicated human service employees who tirelessly advocated for this COLA, and to our elected officials for listening and taking action,” said Jeremy L. Kaplan, executive director, Encore Community Services. “Every hard working New Yorker deserves a livable wage, including human service workers who have long been undervalued. The inclusion of a cost of living increase in the proposed budget is a crucial step towards fair compensation for those who serve as our city’s lifeline.”

“We deeply appreciate the mayor’s initiative in providing the COLA of 3 percent for Fiscal Year 25, 26 and 27 for nonprofit human service providers,” said Monsignor Alfred LoPinto, president and chief executive officer, Catholic Charities of Brooklyn and Queens. “This is a sign of the mayor’s true appreciation for the employees working in the field of human services.”

“As all New Yorkers continue to struggle with an affordability crisis and rising inflation, this Cost of Living Raise couldn’t have come at a better time for workers who have long been underpaid and undervalued,” said Murad Awawdeh, president and CEO, New York Immigration Coalition. “Human service workers are the glue that keep our cities working through direct assistance and support to community-members in need during good times and bad ones. Thanks to the Just Pay Coalition and the mayor, the valuable work of this predominantly women of color workforce is finally being recognized as critical and essential today and into the future.”

“The Network applauds Mayor Adams and Speaker Adams for prioritizing human service workers with a much-needed and overdue Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA),” said Pascale Leone, executive director, Supportive Housing Network of New York. “Throughout the pandemic and beyond, these dedicated individuals have served as the backbone of our communities, showing up when many could not, and playing a vital role in the city’s recovery by safeguarding our most vulnerable tenants in supportive housing from falling through the cracks. This COLA is a testament to the city’s recognition of the hard work and dedication exhibited by our colleagues in the human services sector. It is beyond time that we care for our caretakers, and we appreciate the city’s commitment to doing so. We extend our gratitude to HSC and the #JustPay advocates for their tireless efforts that have led to this historic day.

“The human service workers who dedicate their lives to caring for and supporting children, families and older adults keep New York City strong,” said Melissa E. Aase, MSW, M.Div, chief executive officer, University Settlement. “The deep resilience of our communities is in large part built upon the vast array of human services our teams provide that directly impact millions of New Yorkers, and indirectly support ALL New Yorkers. We cannot do this without true partnership with our government leaders, and a three year COLA is a powerful and positive step that will meaningfully strengthen our partnership.”

“Little Flower deeply appreciates the substantial multi-year commitment by New York City to raise wages for our skilled and dedicated team of direct care workers,” said Corinne Hammons, president and chief executive officer, Little Flower Children & Family Services of New York. “These are significant numbers, but it is not ultimately only about the numbers – it is also about valuing this profession that helps so many New Yorkers with life-changing services now and for decades to come. We are a proud member of the Human Services Council and remain a dedicated part of its JustPay campaign as we continue to work for true parity for our workforce.”

“Each night, Urban Resource Institute offers critical support to individuals and children affected by homelessness and domestic violence. Families arrive seeking refuge, often with little more than the clothes on their back, and they are met with compassion and expert care from our staff, aiding their healing process,” said Nathaniel M. Fields, chief executive officer, Urban Resource Institute. “Amid soaring domestic violence and homelessness, the significance of our team’s work, and the human services sector at large, cannot be overstated. We appreciate the support from Mayor Adams, First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright, and Speaker Adrienne Adams for recognizing the importance of our staff with the COLA. This support not only acknowledges the crucial services provided but also uplifts a workforce largely composed of women of color. We look forward to working with the administration and city council to tackle the root causes of poverty, homelessness, and violence.”

“The commitment by New York City for three-year salary increases for dedicated human services staff is much appreciated, and much needed,” said Monsignor Kevin Sullivan, executive director, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York. “We applaud the Adams administration as the wellbeing of our staff is our high priority. These increases recognize that the crisis of affordability has severely impacted essential human service workers who assist our most vulnerable New York neighbors to meet basic needs. As we commend this initiative, Catholic Charities also pledges to work with the administration to address other important issues impacting the capacity of nonprofit human service agencies to deliver critically needed services.”

“We applaud Mayor Adams and his administration for their willingness to recognize the essential contributions of our workforce,” said Frederick Shack, chief executive officer, Urban Pathways. “This historic investment marks a turning point in addressing systemic inequities and uplifting those who have been undervalued for far too long. It sets a precedent for what government can do to advance gender and social justice.”

“Human services workers are first responders working on the front lines to meet New Yorkers’ needs every day, and we applaud the city’s recognition of their dedication and 24/7 services provided to New York City families,” said Kathleen Brady-Stepien, president and chief executive officer, Council of Family and Child Caring Agencies. “The mayor’s commitment to enhancing pay for human services workers is a big win for the workforce and for New York City. Special thanks to Mayor Adams, his team, and the New York City Council for taking action to positively impact the quality of life for thousands of workers who care for the most vulnerable New Yorkers.”

“Homeless Services United (HSU) congratulates the Human Services Council, members of HSU, and all supporters of the Just Pay campaign for securing this win for front-line human services heroes,” Kristin Miller, executive director, Homeless Services United. “We are extremely grateful to the city council and the administration for coming together to value the essential workers who safeguard the well-being of New Yorkers in need. New York City relies on the compassion and expertise of the non-profit human services workforce. This investment will help sustain our homeless services staff when the need for shelter and services has never been greater.”

“Mayor Adams has achieved a significant milestone by securing the three year, three percent COLA deal on city contracts,” said Maria Lizardo, LMSW, executive director, Northern Manhattan Improvement Corporation. “We extend our sincere appreciation to the mayor, his administration, our partners, and the invaluable leadership of the Human Services Council, whose tireless efforts have been instrumental in organizing the sector. Their unwavering dedication and tireless advocacy have paved the way for positive change and a brighter future for our workforce and their families. Today, we celebrate together; tomorrow we gather to continue the fight until equitable wages are secured for all.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES MORE THAN $120 MILLION IN FEDERAL GRANTS, SECURES ADMINISTRATION’S LARGEST FEDERAL COMPETITIVE GRANT

$117 Million Federal Grant for QueensWay Will Support 1.3 Mile Greenway Extension to Forest Park, New Recreational Amenities, and New Connections to Existing Park Facilities

$5.6 Million Federal Grant Will Help City and State Advance Concepts to Reimagine Future of Brooklyn Queens Expressway Corridor in North and South Brooklyn

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today continued his administration’s unprecedented success in securing federal infrastructure funding by winning two federal “Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Program – Neighborhood Access and Equity Program” grants worth a total of $123.6 million. The grants — issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation — will support key infrastructure projects in New York City, including the second phase of the QueensWay and planning for the future of the northern and southern sections of the Brooklyn Queens Expressway (BQE).

“Our infrastructure should be bringing communities together, not tearing them apart, and that’s why we aggressively pursued these Reconnecting Communities grants, to reshape our city in a way that unites us,” said Mayor Adams. “The next phase of the QueensWay will add more greenway miles, vibrant parks, and outdoor amenities to neighborhoods across Queens, and the BQE Corridor grant we won moves us closer to undoing some of the damage that Robert Moses caused and invests in beautiful, interconnected new public spaces. My thanks to President Biden and Secretary Buttigieg for establishing this transformational grant program and investing $123 million in federal grants to support our city’s growing infrastructure needs, as well as to all of our city, state, and federal partners who went to bat for New York City.”

“Across New York, we are reconnecting communities that have long been divided by highways and building healthier and more accessible neighborhoods,” said New York Governor Kathy Hochul. “Thanks to support from the Biden-Harris Administration, we are developing a shared vision to improve the quality of life for New Yorkers living near the BQE and I’m committed to working closely with the community and our government partners on this transformational initiative.”

“These two grants represent a huge milestone for our city — creating real momentum to stitch together historically-disadvantaged communities with green space and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. We are deeply grateful to President Biden, Secretary Buttigieg, and our federal congressional delegation, led by Majority Leader Schumer and Minority Leader Jeffries, for enabling us to invest in a greener and healthier future for our city,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “I want to congratulate our innovative Federal Infrastructure Task Force, which we started under the Adams administration to help our agencies collaborate to create the best possible applications for federal funding and has secured over a billion dollars in infrastructure funds. This is another massive win for New York City.”

“Thanks to this major federal investment and the hard work of the Adams administration, Queens residents are getting a beautiful new way to take in the great outdoors and connect with their neighbors,” said New York City Department of Parks and Recreation (NYC Parks) Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “This innovative project will create a new signature park in the heart of Queens, transforming an abandoned rail line into a vibrant greenspace where New Yorkers can enjoy all the health benefits of time outdoors. With over a mile of new greenway paths for pedestrians and cyclists, the QueensWay will provide new connections between neighborhoods and give New Yorkers a safe way to get around and enjoy the fresh air. I’m so grateful to our partners in the federal government and the Adams administration for recognizing that accessible, beautiful public greenspaces aren’t a luxury — they’re essential to a livable, green, and safe city.”

“The BQE has needlessly divided communities for decades and our administration is committed to doing its part to help bring them together. Thanks to DOT’s successful grant application, we will receive millions in new funding to plan projects to reconnect neighborhoods both north and south of the corridor,” said New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “We look forward to exploring projects like capping, street redesigns, and more in close collaboration with Brooklynites along the highway. I’d like to thank the Biden-Harris administration and our partners in Congress and at the state DOT for their support.”

“This innovative project will provide Queens with one of the premier greenways in New York City, giving residents much-need open space to walk, bike, and enjoy the outdoors,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation President (NYCEDC) & CEO Andrew Kimball. “Thanks to this enormous investment from the federal government, we will be able to extend this greenway more than a mile directly into Forest Park, delivering more public space for New Yorkers. NYCEDC looks forward to continue working alongside our agency partners and the local community in delivering this amazing greenway for Queens.”

“The New York State Department of Transportation looks forward to working with all of our partners in New York City to study ways to reconnect communities along the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway,” said New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez. “I thank the Biden administration for making this funding available, which will help lay the foundation for future enhancements along the corridor.”

QueensWay Phase Two: Forest Park Pass, $117 million

Mayor Adams announced that NYC Parks and the Trust for Public Land won a $117 million federal grant to further develop the QueensWay, a new public park being built on a vacant corridor of the former LIRR Rockaway Beach Branch. The $117 million grant is the largest competitive federal infrastructure grant won by this administration. The Forest Park Pass project will include an approximately 1.3-mile extension of the greenway into Forest Park, new greenway bridges, new recreational amenities, and new connections to existing facilities in the park including Victory Field.

Once complete, the QueensWay will transform an abandoned railroad line into 47 acres of new park space and seven miles of greenway. The project will cover the Queens neighborhoods of Rego Park, Forest Hills, Glendale, Forest Park, Woodhaven, Richmond Hill, and Ozone Park. The proposal was conceived by the Trust for Public Land and Friends of the QueensWay. The QueensWay will connect neighborhoods with a new greenway corridor of beautiful open space between diverse residential and commercial areas in the borough. The project concept is the result of an extensive community outreach that included public and stakeholder workshops, information tables at local community events and festivals, and more than 20 public tours.

In September 2022, Mayor Adams announced a $35 million investment for design and construction of Phase One of the QueensWay — the Metropolitan Hub (Met Hub). This phase of the project will transform a vacant, city-owned corridor in Forest Hills into a five-acre park with 0.7 miles of greenway, providing residents with new open space, improved access to recreational amenities, outdoor education opportunities for students, and a safe transportation corridor connecting people to schools, businesses, and 10 bus lines. NYCEDC is managing the construction of the Met Hub in collaboration with NYC Parks. The funding includes $2.5 million from the New York City Council. The Met Hub will lead into the new Forest Park Pass.

Rendering of the QueensWay. Credit: Trust for Public Land

BQE North and South Planning Grant, $5.6 million

Mayor Adams and New York Governor Kathy Hochul today also announced that the DOT and the New York State Department of Transportation (NYS DOT) won a $5.6 million federal Reconnecting Communities grant to fund planning work to improve quality of life for residents living near the BQE, particularly those from disadvantaged communities.

The grant will help the city and state identify and advance proposals to reconnect communities divided by the Robert Moses-era urban highway. The city and state will develop concepts to reestablish connections in the local transportation network — improving access to jobs, services, and green space, while bolstering pedestrian and cyclist safety.

The work funded by this grant will focus on BQE North — from the Kosciuszko Bridge to Sands Street — and BQE South — from Atlantic Avenue to the Verrazzano Bridge. These sections account for 88 percent of the BQE in Brooklyn and are owned and operated by the state. Since December 2022, DOT has supported grassroots outreach and engagement efforts, led by community-based organizations, across BQE North and South. These efforts resulted in several proposals for the corridor, including partial or full highway caps, space activations and community amenities adjacent to the BQE, and road safety and intersection improvements. The study will review these proposals for feasibility, cost, community support, and other key factors. At least two of those proposals — one for BQE North and one for BQE South — will advance to partial design, laying the groundwork for DOT and NYS DOT to continue developing concepts to reconnect communities across the corridor.

These combined efforts are part of Mayor Adams’ BQE Corridor Vision, to work with communities along Brooklyn’s only interstate highway, investing in communities long divided by the highway, and fixing the city-owned triple cantilever between Atlantic Avenue and Sands Street.

Examples of Treatments that could be applied to BQE North and South: Credit: DOT

Examples of treatments that could be applied to BQE North and South. Credit: Department of Transportation

The grants were evaluated based on their commitment to:

Equity and environmental justice
Improving community access
Infrastructure suitability
Community engagement and community-based partnerships
Equitable development
Climate and environment
Workforce development and economic opportunity
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 $650 million in competitive federal infrastructure grant awards from these sources.

“For many of the 2.3 million people who live in Queens, access to public parks and open space is limited, and in many cases, difficult and dangerous to access by bike or on foot.” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “I’m proud to deliver the massive infusion of federal funds, via the Inflation Reduction Act I led to passage, that will advance the Forest Park portion of the QueensWay. The QueensWay will provide much-needed green space and a new transportation corridor within walking distance of hundreds of thousands of residents and countless small businesses in Central Queens from Forest Hills to Ozone Park. I am also proud to deliver funding for the BQE Connects project to help needy communities along the BQE, like Sunset Park and Williamsburg, to advance their vision for how to best update that roadway. BQE Connects will identify ways to improve community access and reduce environmental and economic impacts on disadvantaged communities adjacent to the BQE.”

“I’m proud to have worked closely with the Biden administration to secure this grant, which is a down payment to rectify generations of environmental injustice caused by the BQE,” said U.S. Representative Dan Goldman. “It’s more important than ever that we finally put together a comprehensive plan to reimagine the entire BQE corridor, addressing the environmental justice issues that plague the northern and southern portions of the expressway and bringing communities back together. I look forward to continuing to work together with the city, the state, and the federal government to ensure we see this project through to completion.”

“I am excited to help announce this crucial federal money for the QueensWay project, which I advocated for in helping to pass the Inflation Reduction Act and in a letter I sent to the Secretary of Transportation,” said U.S. Representative Grace Meng. “QueensWay will provide more needed greenspace in our borough and ensure many benefits to the public including upgraded infrastructure, additional transportation options, and connecting neighborhoods. In communities like Queens, greenspace is limited and transportation projects, have historically disconnected diverse neighborhoods and discouraged walkability, and QueensWay stands to help change this. As New York’s Representative on the Regional Leadership Council, I look forward to continuing to help move this project forward.”

“I am thrilled to see that the QueensWay is progressing and want to express my deep appreciation to Senator Schumer and Senator Gillibrand for the amazing infusion of funds to make the QueensWay a reality for future generations,” said New York City Councilmember Lynn Schulman. “This project would not have gotten off the ground without Mayor Adams, his administration, the City Council, and all the community advocates who worked tirelessly on this wonderful green space.”

“For more than a decade, Trust for Public Land has been a steadfast collaborator with community partners, advocating for the transformative repurposing of the rail line and recognizing its potential for positive change across Queens,” said Diane Regas, CEO, Trust for Public Land (TPL). “With the announcement of $117 million in funding from the U.S. DOT, specifically allocated to the Forest Park Pass section of the QueensWay, a new chapter in our mission unfolds. In strategically linking these diverse neighborhoods via Forest Park Pass, TPL reaffirms its commitment to better connecting culturally rich and historically underserved communities with the outdoors. This funding acts as a powerful catalyst, propelling us towards the realization of a vibrant linear park, QueensWay, that spans communities across Queens. TPL is grateful to Mayor Adams and to be part of this extraordinary journey towards a more vibrant, connected, and equitable future for more New Yorkers.”

“Friends of the QueensWay has been advocating for our communities and activation of this rails to trails project for more than a decade, and we commend federal and city leaders for collaborating on this extraordinary investment to activate quality park space and parks access,” said Friends of the Queensway. “For many of the 2.3 million people who live in Queens, access to public parks and open space is limited, and in many cases, difficult and dangerous to access by bike or on foot. By reclaiming and redeveloping the abandoned rail, the QueensWay will provide public access to green space, while acting as a main artery of the borough, connecting six distinct neighborhoods and Forest Park.”

Dear fellow New Yorker

March is Women’s History Month and March 8th was International Women’s Day. Mayor Adams is committed to leading on gender equity with “Women Forward NYC: An Action Plan for Gender Equity.” The Mayor has also enshrined reproductive rights with the Sexual and Reproductive Bill of Rights. We celebrate the trailblazers that have broken glass ceilings to create a more equitable New York City for all.

Spring is in the air! Daylight Saving Time began on March 10th. Make sure you set your clocks forward one hour if you have not already done so.

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, GOVERNOR HOCHUL ANNOUNCE LAUNCH OF LARGEST INTERAGENCY, CITY-STATE TASK FORCE TO REMOVE DANGEROUS GHOST CARS FROM CITY STREETS

First Joint Enforcement Operation Yesterday Resulted in 73 Cars Seized

NYPD, Other Law Enforcement Agencies Seized Record Number of Ghost Cars in 2023

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, New York City Police Department (NYPD) Commissioner Edward A. Caban, New York City Sheriff Anthony Miranda, and Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Chair and CEO Janno Lieber today announced the launch of a multi-agency city-state task force dedicated to identifying and removing so-called “ghost cars” — cars that are virtually untraceable by traffic cameras and toll readers because of their forged or altered license plates — from New York City streets. Yesterday, in an overwhelmingly successful inter-agency operation involving the NYPD, the New York City Sheriff’s Office, MTA bridge and tunnel officers, the New York State Police (NYSP), the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Police Department (PAPD), authorities impounded 73 cars, issued 282 summonses, and arrested eight individuals.

“Outlaws have been purchasing fake or paper license plates online to avoid tolls and tickets, as well as to evade accountability for serious crimes, but we’re pumping the brakes on the use of ‘ghost plates’ with the help of this multi-agency task force,” said Mayor Adams. “Working in tandem with our city and state law enforcement partners, we impounded 73 vehicles, issued 282 summonses, and made eight arrests, and sent an important message to everyone who drives on the streets of our city: No one is above the law. These cars might not have license plates, but we’ve got their number, and we’re going after anyone who tries to make their car untraceable.”

“By launching this city-state task force, we are sending a clear message: if you attempt to alter your license plate to avoid traffic cameras and toll readers, you will be caught,” said Governor Hochul. “The safety of New Yorkers is my top priority and in partnership with Mayor Adams and law enforcement, we will swiftly remove elusive vehicles from our roads. Now, I’m calling on the Legislature to join our efforts and work with us to pass additional protections for New Yorkers in the final budget.”

“This multi-agency taskforce has a clear and well-defined purpose: locate illegal and unregistered vehicles travelling in and around our city, get them off our streets, and hold the people driving them accountable,” said NYPD Commissioner Caban. “Over the years, our department has seen a clear connection between these illegal vehicles and violent crime. And we’re here today, with our valued law enforcement partners, to assure New Yorkers that this lawlessness will never be tolerated. This task force is a talented, diverse team, dedicated to keeping our roadways — and the neighborhoods they run through — safe. It is all part of our intelligence-driven approach to precision policing, and it is another example of how interagency cooperation makes our city better and makes us all safer.”

“We frequently conduct joint operations with our partner agencies and will continue to do so on the city and state level to remove these ‘ghost vehicles’ from our streets,” said New York City Sheriff Miranda. “These vehicles cause a serious threat to public safety, as they are typically unregistered and uninsured. Our joint operations help to combat the violent crimes associated with individuals using fraudulent plates.”

“Toll-dodging drivers cost the MTA an estimated $50 million every year — money that could be reinvested into modernizing the New York City transit system. That’s the public’s money they’re taking. And we can’t stand for it,” said MTA Chair and CEO Lieber. “So, if you have anything like that affixed to your plate, it would be smart to remove it. Because you could be stopped by a Bridge and Tunnel officer, or by any of our partner agencies. And we will collect on the money you owe us.”

“We will continue to work in conjunction with our law enforcement partners to step up efforts and stop these criminals who are using these ghost plates to obscure their identities and perpetuate other heinous crimes,” said NYSP Acting Superintendent Steven G. James. “We have no tolerance for individuals who try to circumvent the law, and they will be held accountable for their actions.”

“This multi-jurisdictional collaboration is a big step forward in the fight against a dangerous and pervasive problem, and the New York State DMV is proud to support this important work,” said DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder. “So called ‘ghost plates’ put the safety of all New Yorkers at risk, so we will continue working with our partners to strengthen their enforcement efforts and hold individuals accountable.”

“If you try to evade the tolls at any of the region’s crossings, you will be caught and prosecuted,” said Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton. “The Port Authority is committed to working with our task force partners in taking aggressive action against any motorist using fake and obstructed license plates. We are using unique, innovative law enforcement methods now at our disposal to seek out those who don’t pay. Our collective toll dollars are critical to upkeep of the region’s critical crossings.”

“Today, we are going full throttle to rid our city of the pervasive ‘ghost cars.’ There have been almost 22,000 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 multi-agency partnership between the city and state will accelerate enforcement to get these dangerous cars off our streets. I look forward to partnering with the mayor 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.”

“The owners of these “ghost cars” are purposefully evading the law and are a threat to public safety in our city,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “Our residents want these drivers held accountable and interagency communication and enforcement to keep our streets and communities safe. I want to thank New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, New York City Police Department (NYPD) Commissioner Edward A. Caban, New York City Sheriff Anthony Miranda, and Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Chair and CEO Janno Lieber for their leadership on this issue and for sending a clear message that “ghost vehicles” will not be tolerated in our city.”

“Ghost cars are just another example of bad people doing bad things,” said Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella. “We applaud Mayor Adams and all those involved for stepping up and recognizing the problem because it is often affiliated with other crimes.”

“Cars with fake, expired, or obscured license plates are not just a massive source of frustration for law-abiding Staten Islanders, but they pose major challenges to law enforcement and frankly, lawbreakers know it,” said Staten Island District Attorney Michael McMahon. “I welcome the joint effort being announced by Governor Hochul and Mayor Adams to crack down on this public safety problem, as we see too many ‘ghost cars’ used to commit crimes on an all-too-regular basis. In particular, I applaud the governor and the mayor for coordinating this effort with Port Authority Police, as my borough’s three New Jersey crossings are a common route chosen by those seeking to prey on our communities hard-earned expectations of safety.”

“Vehicles equipped with forged or altered license plates have long evaded detection by law enforcement and traffic cameras,” said Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz. “When drivers cannot be unidentified because of ghost plates, there is a particular danger to breaking the law without accountability, posing a serious threat to public safety. I commend Mayor Eric Adams and Governor Kathy Hochul on the multi-agency initiative they have spearheaded to tackle this problem. Their efforts will strengthen our ongoing work to hold accountable those who undermine safety in our communities.”

“I commend Mayor Adams and the city-state task force for their swift action in addressing the issue of ‘ghost cars’ plaguing our streets,” said New York City Councilmember Kristy Marmorato. “Ensuring the safety and security of our communities requires collaborative efforts across agencies, and I am confident that this task force will make significant strides in removing these dangerous vehicles from our roads.”

“Ghost vehicles pose a significant threat to public safety and must be taken off our streets,” said New York City Councilmember Lynn Schulman. “I am a proud co-sponsor of legislation to intensify penalties and combat the proliferation of ‘ghost cars, which are often used to evade the law and accountability. Thank you to Mayor Adams and Governor Hochul for establishing an extensive interagency task force to eradicate dangerous ghost cars from our city streets. It is imperative that we mobilize every resource at our disposal to ensure our streets are kept safe for all New Yorkers.”

“Ghost cars have been a problem in this city for far too long, and I’m glad to see a coordinated effort like this to finally crack down on them,” said New York City Councilmember Joann Ariola. “These cars are dangers to our citizens, and brazenly commit crime without fear of reprisal. Through the creation of this task force, we are taking an important and necessary step towards restoring the rule of law on the streets of New York, and for that I am thankful.”

The primary focus of the task force’s work is to remove vehicles with fraudulent or modified license plates — and those with no tags at all — from city streets, as these vehicles are often unregistered, uninsured, or stolen. While the illegal practice of forging or altering license plates is not new, the crime proliferated during the pandemic, with drivers masking their identities by using counterfeit temporary paper plates to evade detection. The fake “temp tags” appeared as though they were issued by out-of-state dealerships, making them difficult to verify. In some cases, vehicle operators in New York City used this cloak of anonymity to commit more serious violent crimes, including hit-and-runs, robberies, and shootings.

In her executive budget, Governor Hochul proposed legislation that would improve toll collections throughout the state by increasing fines and penalties for driving with altered plates, prohibiting the sale or distribution of covers that obscure license plates, allowing police to seize illegal plate covers, and restricting DMV registration transactions for vehicles with suspended registrations for failure to pay tolls or failing to remove plate-obscuring materials.

To combat this scourge during 2022 and 2023, the NYPD, the New York City Sheriff’s Office, and their law enforcement partners arrested nearly 11,200 drivers and impounded their vehicles, seized almost 12,900 additional vehicles, and issued motorists more than 21,200 moving violation summonses.

The NYPD’s Transportation Bureau established the inter-agency task force with the mission of conducting eight-hour enforcement operations approximately once a month. Times and locations around the city will be chosen after analyzing toll and motor vehicle data.

In its first outing yesterday, Monday, March 11, 2024, the task force performed traffic-safety actions at three river crossings that enter Manhattan: the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge, the George Washington Bridge, and the Lincoln Tunnel. Law enforcement utilized marked police vehicles, including various-sized tow trucks, automated license plate reader technology, and officer observations. In addition to the outside agencies, NYPD units involved in the undertaking included the Highway Patrol, the Citywide Traffic Task Force, the Auto Crime Division, the Traffic Enforcement Division, the Aviation Unit, the Legal Bureau, Community Response Teams, and more.

MAYOR ADAMS, GOVERNOR HOCHUL, PORT AUTHORITY ANNOUNCE AGREEMENT TO SUPPORT REPLACEMENT OF MIDTOWN BUS TERMINAL

City Agrees to Contribute Future Tax Revenue from Three New Commercial Developments Toward $10 Billion Midtown Bus Terminal Replacement and Expansion Project

Port Authority Recently Released Plan to Replace Existing, 73-Year-Old Building With State-of-the-Art Facility, Creating 6,000 Union Construction Jobs

Transformation of Nation’s Largest, Busiest Bus Terminal Will Include New Public Open Space, Decreased Congestion, Enhanced Commuter and Community Experience

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey today announced a new agreement to support the $10 billion replacement and expansion of the 73-year-old Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan. Recognizing the importance and catalytic potential of the project, the city has committed 40 years of tax revenue — expected to help the Port Authority raise an estimated total of up to $2 billion, 20 percent of the project cost — from three potential new commercial developments on three sites, two of which will be positioned atop the new bus terminal and the third to be built at a nearby site owned by the Port Authority and private owners, subject to market demand. This deal brings the vision of a reimagined bus terminal one step closer to reality.

“For decades, New Yorkers have watched the Port Authority Bus Terminal deteriorate from the world-class facility it was in the 1950s to the stain it is on Midtown today,” said Mayor Adams. “The days of watching are over, and the days of acting are here. Our investment over the course of the coming years, and our partnership with the Port Authority, will help develop a new crown jewel for Midtown — a state-of-the-art bus terminal that will add acres of new public space and storefronts, decrease congestion in Hell’s Kitchen, and improve the commuter and community experience in and around the terminal for both New Yorkers and visitors to the greatest city in the world.”

“Anyone entering New York City should be greeted by a world-class travel hub, and now we are one step closer to a revitalized Port Authority Bus Terminal,” said Governor Hochul. “We are modernizing New York’s infrastructure to prioritize public space, thriving businesses, and the safety and wellbeing of all New Yorkers. Replacing and expanding the Bus Terminal will spur economic development for decades to come and rebuild an important gateway into New York City.”

“Our agreement with the city to provide a portion of the financing toward a new Midtown Bus Terminal will allow the Port Authority to move forward with a project that will generate economic benefits for our entire region while improving the quality of life in the community where the terminal is located,” said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole. “We will replace this aging eyesore with a world-class gateway our region deserves.”

“Today’s announcement of an agreement between the city and the Port Authority for the financing of a new Midtown Bus Terminal enables us to create a world-class gateway that will dramatically improve travel to and from the city while also improving the quality of life for the surrounding communities,” said Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton. “We appreciate the hard work and the support of Mayor Eric Adams and the members of his administration who worked with us on this agreement. With the city committing revenue to fund up to 20 percent of the project, we will be able to advance our revised plan that is more costly but adds significant community benefits to the project. I also thank Governor Hochul, the elected officials, community board, and the many stakeholders for their support in helping us reach this agreement.”

Rendering of the new Midtown Bus Terminal

Rendering of the new Midtown Bus Terminal. Credit: Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

The new Midtown Bus Terminal will replace the existing 73-year-old, functionally-obsolete and rundown terminal with a long overdue world-class facility. The new terminal is designed to meet projected 2040-2050 commuter growth, provide a best-in-class customer experience that serves the region’s 21st century public transportation needs, and enhance the surrounding community.

The $10 billion world-class facility will include a new 2.1 million square foot main terminal, a separate storage and staging building, and new ramps leading directly into and out of the Lincoln Tunnel. The revised project plan — including a proposal for the permanent closure of a portion of 41st Street between Eighth and Ninth Avenues, a central main entrance, more street-level retail, and a multi-story indoor atrium and new public open space — will enhance both commuter and community experiences at the world’s busiest bus terminal. The project is expected to create approximately 6,000 good-paying union construction jobs, and is expected to be constructed in phases, with a temporary terminal and new ramps completed in 2028 and the new main terminal completed in 2032.

The Port Authority’s plan for the Midtown Bus Terminal replacement project reflects public feedback from extensive community outreach, including input from New York City, commuters, local community boards, neighborhood coalitions, and elected officials. The project will bring a wide array of community benefits, including:

Added capacity to allow curbside inter-city buses that currently pick up and drop off on city streets surrounding the bus terminal to move their operations inside the bus terminal and off the streets.
The creation of nearly 3.5 acres of publicly-accessible open space on Port Authority property on Dyler Avenue, restoring and improving connectivity for pedestrians and the community.
New street-facing concessions and retail amenities for the community, as well as concessions and retail inside the bus terminal.
The construction of significantly improved and attractive facades, enhancing the visual quality of the new bus terminal to become an asset rather than an eyesore to the surrounding neighborhoods. This design includes an iconic atrium entrance on West 41st Street and Eighth Avenue.
“I am pleased that the Port Authority and the city have reached a deal on the PILOTs for the rehabilitation of the PABT,” said U.S. Representative Jerrold Nadler. “This is good news for the economic development of the city and my Hell’s Kitchen constituents. The new bus terminal will improve air quality and make our streets safer for pedestrians by removing all commuter and inter-city buses from our streets. And finally, it will replace the eyesore of an outdated and deteriorating bus terminal with a modern, efficient transportation hub that meets the needs of both commuters and residents while contributing to the continued growth and success of New York City.”

“I’m thrilled that the Port Authority and the city administration have reached an agreement on the PILOT payments for the Midtown Bus Terminal Replacement Project to help finance this $10 billion project,” said New York State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal. “Today represents a major step towards replacing the current dilapidated 73-year old building, which is the busiest bus terminal in the entire world. I look forward to the day the Port Authority bus terminal goes from ‘worst’ to ‘first’ in the eyes of the millions of New Yorkers who utilize or live near the terminal, including my constituents on the West Side of Manhattan.”

“The Port Authority Bus Terminal is one of the central transit hubs of our city,” said New York State Assemblymember Tony Simone. “The plan to build a new station is a massive investment by the Port Authority to improve public goods in Manhattan, from transit availability to traffic improvement. Not only will the new station get buses off the street, it will also create new green space for the west side. The Port Authority worked closely with the local community board to establish a plan that works for residents in the neighborhood as well as the tens of thousands of riders who come in and out of the bus terminal every day. This PILOT agreement is a critical step forward in making the vision of a new station a reality, and I am glad to see all stakeholders working so closely together to improve the future of transit infrastructure for all New Yorkers.”

“Today’s announcement of a PILOT agreement for the Port Authority Bus Terminal replacement project marks an important milestone in the redevelopment of the Port Authority Bus Terminal. I’m thankful to the city and the Port Authority for working to come to this agreement, which will make this monumental project a reality,” said Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine. “I look forward to ultimately having a new bus terminal in Manhattan that will improve the experience of commuters and local residents, bring new retail opportunities to the area, and alleviate bus congestion on the streets.”

“This landmark agreement marks a pivotal moment for our city and the Port Authority,” said New York City Councilmember Erik Bottcher. “The commitment to replace the aging bus terminal is not just an investment in infrastructure, but an affirmation of our dedication to improving the daily commutes of thousands of New Yorkers. Today’s achievement is a testament to what we can accomplish when we prioritize the needs of our community and work collaboratively to build a more connected and accessible city. I want to thank the Adams administration for their commitment to this important project as well as the partnership from my elected colleagues, the Port Authority, and Community Board 4 on this significant investment for the future of New York City.”

“The replacement and expansion of New York City’s Midtown Bus Terminal is a necessary, large-scale project that will improve our major infrastructure and boost our economy, all while creating thousands of family sustaining union careers,” said Gary LaBarbera, president, Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York. “We applaud Mayor Adams and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey for collaborating to fund this crucial development that will provide New Yorkers and our visitors with a fully modernized and world class transportation hub in the heart of Midtown. Our tradesmen and tradeswomen look forward to streamlining this project and pursuing the paths to the middle class that it creates for them and their communities.”

MAYOR ADAMS, FUND FOR PUBLIC HEALTH NYC ANNOUNCE CONFERENCE TO IMPROVE BLACK MATERNAL HEALTH

Participants Will Discuss Ways to Improve Maternal Health to Protect Black Families and Babies in New York City

Advances Adams Administration’s Goal in HealthyNYC to Reduce Black Maternal Mortality by 10 Percent by 2030

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan today announced that the Adams administration — in partnership with the Fund for Public Health NYC and The Clinton Global Initiative — will host a conference to discuss how New York City can improve Black maternal health and significantly reduce preventable maternal deaths. Leaders from across different sectors will join the conference today, including representatives from government, academia, health care, advocacy, and philanthropy. As the city aims to reduce Black maternal mortality by 10 percent by 2030 through HealthyNYC — New York City’s ambitious plan to improve and extend the average lifespan of all New Yorkers — participants will discuss strategies to bolster maternal health across the five boroughs, save lives, and build healthier families and communities. Today’s conference also represents a continuation of the work of “Women Forward NYC: An Action Plan for Gender Equity,” the Adams administration’s $43 million plan with the ambitious goal to make New York City the most woman-forward city in the country.

“This is a critical moment for women’s health in New York City and across the country,” said Mayor Adams. “The numbers are clear: Black New Yorkers are four times more likely than white New Yorkers to experience a pregnancy-associated death. Our administration has taken action to boost birth equity, expanding the doula program citywide, signing a package of bills to strengthen maternal health, and setting the ambitious goal of reducing Black maternal mortality by 10 percent by 2030. Today’s conference is a continuation of that work, bringing leaders from across sectors to the table to discuss solutions to determine how we can build a city that supports all new families. Our children are our most precious resource and by investing in them and their families from the start, we’ll build a safer and healthier city for generations to come.”

“Regardless of your race or zip code, women in New York City should have access to the resources and support needed to ensure a safe, healthy birth,” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “For too long, Black women experiencing childbirth have faced systemic odds. Data has constantly showed the inequities within maternal care, and today we are taking a step towards addressing that disparity. Today’s announcement is a true cross-sector, solution driven collaboration of thought leaders, health experts, and government officials convening with the sole purpose of making sure Black women and their families are safe during one of life’s most important moments.”

“Since the first day of this administration, the issue of maternal health and birth equity have been top priorities,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Willians-Isom. “We have and will continue to support expectant parents before, during, and after they welcome their new family member. Thank you to our partners for coming together for this convening and for joining with us in this effort.”

“When it comes to promoting longer, healthier lives, all roads run through equity,” said DOHMH Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan. “There is no more important place to start that than at the beginning of life. This conference is about partnership and building an infrastructure to support Black families, which has been missing for far too long.”

“Prioritizing the health and wellbeing of Black women and birthing people means committing new resources and implementing solutions that come directly from Black women and birthing people,” said DOHMH Chief Medical Officer and Deputy Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse. “To support those priorities, we at DOHMH support reducing siloes and bridging public health and health care because collaboration that centers community-based care is one key step towards birth equity.”

“Eliminating the inequities in maternal mortality between Black and other birthing people is going to take partnerships,” said Sara Gardner, CEO, Fund for Public Health NYC. “Today’s conference brings together government, community, and philanthropy to discuss how to support pregnant New Yorkers and their families, ensuring they can not only survive, but also thrive.”

“The Black maternal health crisis is an existential issue that not only deserves our attention; it deserves, and requires, our shared commitment to action. To be successful, we will need everyone in this fight — from health care to business, from government to philanthropy,” said Dr. Chelsea Clinton. “At the Clinton Foundation and Clinton Global Initiatives, we stand ready to be of service in any way we can. And I am hopeful that together we can build a safer, healthier, and more equitable future.”

Speakers at today’s conference include Dr. Chelsea Clinton, First Deputy Mayor Wright, DOHMH Commissioner Dr. Vasan, DOHMH Deputy Commissioner Dr. Leslie Hayes, and DOHMH Chief Medical Officer and Deputy Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse.

Tackling maternal mortality is an urgent priority for the Adams administration: Black New Yorkers are four times more likely than white New Yorkers to experience a pregnancy-associated death. From 2016 to 2018, data shows that 72 percent of pregnancy-associated deaths among Black mothers were preventable, compared to 43 percent for white mothers, and 65 percent for Latina mothers. The Adams administration has taken action to strengthen birth equity, expanding the doula program citywide, signing a package of bills to strengthen maternal health, and setting the ambitious goal of reducing Black maternal mortality by 10 percent by 2023.

In January 2024, following his State of the City address, Mayor Adams announced Women Forward NYC. Supported through city dollars, private and public partnerships, academic institutions, and federal grant funding, the action 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.

MAYOR ADAMS CELEBRATES NEW ALL-TIME HIGH TOTAL JOBS RECORD, ANNOUNCES $85 MILLION DELIVERED TO SMALL BUSINESSES THROUGH GROUNDBREAKING OPPORTUNITY FUND

City Now Has More Than 4.3 Million Jobs, Nearly 300,000 Jobs Created Since Beginning of Adams Administration

More than 1,000+ Businesses Served in Historic Small Business Services Program, Nearly 80 Percent of Loans Awarded to Minority- or Women-Owned Businesses

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS) Commissioner Kevin D. Kim today celebrated that New York City has set another all-time high for the total number of jobs ever in the city’s history, with 4,730,066 total jobs, according to new data released by the New York State Department of Labor.

As part of his administration’s celebration of the city’s economic resurgence and efforts to build more equitable opportunities, Mayor Adams also announced progress on his historic “NYC Small Business Opportunity Fund.” Through the fund, SBS and partners have supported 1,046 businesses with loans totaling more than $85 million in affordable low-interest capital. The fund is the city’s largest-ever public-private partnership fund directed at small businesses.

“When we came into office, we had a clear mission: protect public safety, revitalize our economy as quickly as possible, and make our city more livable for everyday New Yorkers,” said Mayor Adams. “Today, our streets are safer, our sidewalks are cleaner, and we have more jobs than any time in our city’s history. This is what it looks like to stand with working New Yorkers, and to build a fairer economy. We will continue fight for a city where all New Yorkers share in our prosperity.”

One in seven small businesses have started since the start of the Adams administration, along with nearly 300,000 jobs being created. SBS’s Workforce1 Career Center system has also helped hire and place more than 44,000 New Yorkers in jobs during that same time period. According to the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), since the first few months of 2022, small businesses with fewer than 50 employees have accounted for 45 percent of New York City’s overall employment growth and have contributed more than $3.2 billion in direct economic output to the city.

The Small Business Opportunity Fund launched in January 2023 with $75 million committed by the city and partners, including Goldman Sachs and Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, offering loans of up to $250,000 to eligible small businesses with a market-leading interest rate of four percent. The fund was designed to broaden access to capital for historically-underserved communities by removing barriers such as application fees and minimum credit scores. As a result, approximately 80 percent of the fund’s loans were awarded to minority- or women-owned businesses, including 69 percent to businesses owned by Black, indigenous, and people of color-owned firms, more than double the national average for Fiscal Year 2023. Additionally, 59 percent of loans were disbursed in low- to-medium income communities. Loans awarded from the fund averaged $80,000 and are being used by small business owners to refinance existing high-interest debt, expand into new storefronts, hire more New Yorkers, and fund other improvements to their enterprises.

“In recovering the nearly one million jobs we lost during the pandemic – more than a year ahead of schedule – and now setting a new record for the most total jobs in our city’s history, it’s clear that New York City is back and better than ever. But our work is not finished until every New Yorker can take advantage of the opportunities our city has to offer,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Development Maria Torres-Springer. “In addition to investing in our young people, embarking on a historic community hiring effort, and helping New Yorkers keep money in their pockets through the Earned Income Tax Credit, we are also making big investments in our small businesses. Access to capital is one of the biggest hurdles preventing our local entrepreneurs and business owners from fully realizing their potential, and this is especially true for our minority- and women-owned business owners. I am grateful to Commissioner Kim and our partners at Goldman Sachs and the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth for their leadership in delivering record amounts of capital to more than a thousand businesses through the NYC Opportunity Fund.”

“The $85 million Opportunity Fund made a real impact on our neighborhoods and commercial corridors at a time when they needed it most,” said SBS Commissioner Kevin D. Kim. “These loans aren’t just dollar signs, but investments in the people and communities that make New York City the place we all know and love. Each of the more than 1,000 businesses owners we awarded loans to has a story to tell, families they cherish, and neighborhoods that they support. I want to thank Goldman Sachs, the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, and all of our Community Development Financial Institutions’ partners for making the largest public-private partnership in our city’s history possible and for joining us in building the City of Yes for small businesses.”

“Since the start of this administration, Mayor Adams has strategically and effectively accelerated our economic recovery — and with another all-time jobs record shattered, it’s clear that New York City is not only back, but it’s better than ever,” said NYCEDC President and CEO Andrew Kimball. “Thanks to Mayor Adams’ economic agenda, we continue to see the positive effects ripple across the city, and NYCEDC will continue to work across the public and private sectors to foster an inclusive economy and make New York City the best place in the world to live, work, and play.”

“This fund is having a tangible impact on small businesses across all five boroughs, creating jobs, financing expansions, and investing in equipment, products and services,” said Asahi Pompey, global head, corporate engagement, Goldman Sachs. “This progress would not be possible without the network of CDFIs who work daily to improve the accessibility of capital across New York.”

“The ability for small businesses to flourish depends on an ecosystem that supports innovation and resiliency,” said Shamina Singh, founder and president, Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth. “Through this public-private collaboration, we’ve been able to support small businesses with their unique needs, while providing the means for them to scale their businesses. We are proud to support the Opportunity Fund and look forward to seeing New York City small businesses grow and thrive.”

“This historic investment in small businesses is demonstrative of the impact local businesses have on our communities,” said New York City Councilmember Susan Zhuang. “Whether it be a favorite restaurant or bookstore, initiatives like these protect our beloved local landmarks and provide opportunities for more entrepreneurs to start their own businesses in our great city. I look forward to seeing the impact this funding will have and for initiatives like this in the future.”

Opportunity Fund recipients represent businesses from all five boroughs, and reflect a diverse pool of business owners across the city, including:

Jonathan Melo at Valley of Beracah Imprint in the Bronx, who used his loan of $26,110 from Ascendus to fulfill his dream of building a successful business and passing it on to his children. Melo’s loan helped him increase capacity at his embroidering and apparel shop so he could meet demand in his community. Fourteen percent of loans were awarded to Bronx businesses, representing 147 Bronx businesses served with a total of $10 million in Opportunity Fund capital.
Chef Jae Lee at Nowon in Brooklyn, who used his loan of $250,000 from Renaissance EDC to expand to a market in Bushwick. The Opportunity Fund provided Lee with critical capital that was otherwise inaccessible from traditional lenders and enabled him to employ dozens of New Yorkers across two boroughs. A total of 260 Brooklyn businesses received $22.8 million in Opportunity Fund capital.
Sarina and Elias Prasabi at Buunni Coffee in Manhattan, who used their loan of $100,000 from Accompany Capital to open their own coffee roastery for their own business, as well as make it available for other coffee shops in the surrounding area. The couple emigrated from Ethiopia and are proud to be able to share their home country’s coffee culture with an even wider audience. More than 300 businesses in Manhattan received a total of $27 million in Opportunity Fund capital.
Shahadev Khadka at Green Tara Market in Queens, who used his loan of $100,000 from Accompany Capital to expand the inventory at his supermarket. An immigrant from Nepal, Khadka successfully managed several stores before deciding to take the leap and open his first storefront in New York City. More than 300 businesses in Queens received a total of $23 million in Opportunity Fund capital.
Chi Gibson at Chi Aesthetics on Staten Island, who used her loan of $100,000 from Pursuit to increase staffing and improve day-to-day operations at her health spa. A West African immigrant, Dr. Gibson faced difficulties finding capital from traditional lenders until she found the Opportunity Fund. A total of 33 Staten Island businesses received $2.6 million in Opportunity Fund capital.

Eight community development financial institutions – Accompany Capital, Ascendus, BOC Capital Corp., Harlem Entrepreneurial Fund (HEF), Grow America, Pursuit, Renaissance Small Business Services, and Trufund – administered loans in partnership with SBS. With the Opportunity Fund now closed, small businesses can continue to receive free one-on-one financing support from SBS to connect with affordable resources, including through the NYC Funds Finder, an online marketplace bringing together small businesses and local Community Development Financial Institutions on one platform.

“The Opportunity Fund has helped me buy t-shirts, hoodies, and promotional items to start contracts for agencies such as the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene,” said Jonathan Melo, owner, Valley of Beracah Imprint in the Bronx. “Now, I am able to expand my business to bid on higher contracts due to the working capital I received from the Opportunity Fund.”

“I really wanted to open a restaurant that honored both cultures — my Korean culture and my New York upbringing,” said Jae Lee, owner and chef, Nowon in Brooklyn. “The Opportunity Fund helped me expand into a new market and gave me the capital to hire the right management team and staffing. With the success of my first and second restaurant, I think there is more of an opportunity for us to represent Asian-American flavors across New York City.”

“The Opportunity Fund loan helped my business, which I used for inventory plus equipment,” said Shahadev Khadka, owner, Green Tara Market in Queens. “That helped me a lot to get through the pandemic. I had a very difficult time, and when I got the Opportunity Fund loan, that helped me a lot.”

“We started Buunni Coffee in 2012 in Washington Heights, and, since then, we’ve grown to four cafes,” said Elias Gurmu and Sarina Prasabi, owners, Buunni Coffee in Manhattan. “One of our business plans when we started was to open our own roasting facility. The Opportunity Fund really helped us to have the confidence to go ahead and secure the space. Because of the flexible terms and the low interest, it’s an affordable program and the perfect opportunity for us, giving us that little extra boost for going for the roastery.”

“Since I was 21 years old, I knew this is what I wanted to do,” said Dr. Chi Gibson, owner, Chi Aesthetics on Staten Island. “The day I received the e-mail that I was approved, I was screaming like I was crazy because I was at my end. I wasn’t sure what was going to happen to my business. I got that loan, and it was the happiest day of our lives, and I said, ‘Yes, we’re going to be okay.’”

MAYOR ADAMS CELEBRATES NEW YORK CITY’S PUBLIC HEALTH AGENDA BECOMING LAW, EXTENDING LIFESPAN OF ALL NEW YORKERS

“HealthyNYC” Aims to Increase Life Expectancy to 83 Years by 2030 by Focusing on Reducing Chronic Disease, Overdose, Maternal Mortality Deaths, and More

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today celebrated Intro. 93-A becoming local law, codifying New York City’s ambitious health agenda — “HealthyNYC” — that seeks to extend the average life expectancy of New Yorkers to record lengths. Unveiled last fall, 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. Overall, the campaign aims to extend the average life expectancy of New Yorkers to 83 years by 2030, with gains across racial and ethnic groups. The new law will hold New York City accountable to these goals, requiring the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) to submit reports on its progress as it works to extend life expectancy, and to return to the table every five years to establish new goals and a new agenda to improve health and life expectancy, based on current data.

“Last year we launched ‘HealthyNYC,’ our campaign to give New York City extra life and help New Yorkers lead healthier, longer lives,” said Mayor Adams. “Our administration aims to increase New Yorkers’ life expectancy to over 83 years by 2030 — not only recovering years lost during the pandemic but also surpassing our previous high by tackling chronic disease, violence, maternal mortality, overdose, and more. Intro. 93-A codifies the goals of ‘HealthyNYC,’ ensuring this work lives beyond all of us — helping build a healthier, more prosperous city where everyone can thrive. It will take all of us to reach these ambitious goals, and I’m grateful to the City Council for their commitment to improving the health of all New Yorkers.”

“Our city is at its most vibrant when we support every person in every community and help them live longer, healthier lives,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “Codifying the goals of ‘HealthyNYC’ is an important step in ensuring that these targets remain a priority for years to come. Ultimately, these goals are not only about extending New Yorkers’ lifespan but also working to better the life in those additional years.”

“New Yorkers, and all Americans, are suffering too much and dying too soon, and this is preventable” said DOHMH Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan. “Our city’s and our nation’s falling life expectancy, after more than a century of steady growth, is a symptom of a wider American crisis in the way we conceive of and organize ourselves around health and wellbeing, focusing far too much on reactive care and treatment, and not enough on proactive preventive and societal strategies. By creating ‘HealthyNYC,’ and now codifying it in our city’s planning and public policy, we are holding ourselves accountable to the goals we’ve set and also acknowledging that this will require a sustained, persistent effort that transcends politics and goes beyond the bounds of any tenure or term. This administration knows that the promise to ourselves and our children, that we live in a society where we can expect health and longevity, is the challenge of our time. It is a measure of our civic project and the strength of our democracy, and it will take all of us working together in an aligned and coordinated way to achieve longer, healthier lives in our city.”

“In codifying ‘HealthyNYC,’ we’re not just setting goals — we’re building a legacy of health equity,” said New York City Councilmember Lynn Schulman, chair, Health Committee. “Intro 93-A is a game-changer in our ongoing mission to address the root causes of health disparities and ensure equitable access to health care services for every New Yorker. This legislation is unique in that it ensures that our city’s health goals are independent of any one government or elected administration. By mandating annual progress reports and stakeholder input, we are setting a precedent for municipalities nationwide. Together, we’re paving the way for a healthier, more resilient, New York City for generations to come.”

Intro. 93-A — sponsored by New York City Councilmember Lynn Schulman — requires DOHMH to develop a recurrent five-year population health agenda for the purpose of improving public health outcomes, addressing health disparities, and improving quality of and access to health care for New Yorkers, with the overarching goal to increase life expectancy and improve health in New York City. This bill also requires DOHMH to submit this agenda to the mayor, the New York City Council speaker, and post on the department’s website.

This law complements and codifies HealthyNYC, the city’s population health agenda launched in November 2023 by Mayor Adams. HealthyNYC aims to address the life years lost during the COVID-19 pandemic to the virus and other causes and bring life expectancy in New York City to a historic high. While COVID-19 was the biggest driver of the decrease in life expectancy in 2020, other causes also contributed to this decline, both locally and nationally. For example, overdose deaths increased in 2020 and 2021. Other drivers of decreasing lifespans that HealthyNYC seeks to tackle include gun violence and chronic diseases, like diabetes. To address this trend, HealthyNYC outlines the following ambitious goals:

Reduce cardiovascular disease and diabetes by 5 percent by 2030;
Reduce screenable cancers — including lung, breast, colon, cervical, and prostate cancers — by 20 percent by 2030;
Reduce overdose deaths by 25 percent by 2030;
Reduce suicide deaths by 10 percent by 2030;
Reduce homicide deaths by 30 percent by 2030;
Reduce pregnancy-associated mortality among Black women by 10 percent by 2030; and
Reduce annual COVID-19 deaths by 60 percent by 2030.

By reaching these milestones, the city can bring life expectancy above 83 years by 2030 and reduce existing racial disparities in life expectancy. The city employs a number of strategies to achieve these reductions in deaths, including:

Increasing access to naloxone, proven harm-reduction, and treatment and recovery centers to reduce overdose deaths;
Expanding access to culturally-responsive mental health care and social support services, including early intervention for communities of color and LGBTQIA+ youth, and addressing the impact of social media on youth mental health and suicidal ideation to reduce suicide deaths;
Increasing new families’ access to quality health care and social support to reduce pregnancy-associated mortality among Black women; and
Increasing access to healthy foods and promoting plant-forward diets to reduce chronic and diet-related disease deaths.

The major steps outlined in HealthyNYC build on the Adams administration’s efforts to building a healthier and safer city, including programs launched in “Care, Community, Action” — the city’s plan to improve family and child mental health while addressing the overdose crisis — as well as Mayor Adams’ “Blueprint to End Gun Violence.”

MAYOR ADAMS, BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION TRADES COUNCIL OF GREATER NEW YORK, CIRRUS ANNOUNCE FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND PARTNERSHIP TO BUILD WORKFORCE HOUSING IN NYC

Union Pensions, Cirrus Pledge Over $100 Million in Initial Stages to

Build Affordable Housing for Working-Class New Yorkers

Latest Effort in Adams Administration’s Commitment to Use Every Tool

to Address Housing Crisis

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York and Vicinity (BCTC) President Gary LaBarbera, and Cirrus Workforce Housing Advisors, LP (Cirrus) today announced a first-of-its-kind partnership to build workforce housing — housing at greater affordability levels — in New York City designed for essential workers. Pension funds affiliated with BCTC members and other Building Trades unions, along with Cirrus, have pledged more than $100 million in an initial fundraising stage to invest in a series of multi-family workforce housing development and redevelopment projects in New York City at levels their members can afford. Cirrus expects to raise a total of over $400 million for this initiative.

To support the new effort, the City of New York has signed a historic memorandum of understanding with BCTC and Cirrus to facilitate the development of affordable housing, including workforce housing, to meet the crisis of undersupply facing New York City. The agreement demonstrates how government, labor, and private enterprise can partner to build the city out of the housing crisis and comes as state lawmakers consider a package of new affordable housing tools and the Adams administration’s historic “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity” nears the beginning of the city’s public review process.

“As the blue-collar mayor of America’s biggest union town, I have been clear that our mission is to create good-paying jobs and make our city more livable for hardworking New Yorkers,” said Mayor Adams. “This first-of-its-kind agreement will help build housing that is affordable for the New Yorkers who have built our city and help New York City lead on the affordable housing crisis facing our nation.”

“New York City is a union town — and our union workers should be able to afford to live here,” said Chief Advisor to the Mayor Ingrid P. Lewis-Martin. “This innovative partnership will put as much as half a billion dollars towards building more homes that workers can afford. I’m grateful to our partners in labor and development for joining us in our shared mission to ensure that everyone can make it here in New York City.”

“Creating housing for working people exemplifies the innovation of this administration” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “This public-private partnership is one new model for what housing finance can look like and creates space that working New Yorkers can afford. I thank BCTC and Cirrus for their partnership, and for helping us lead by example to fight our housing crisis.”

“The data is clear: We need more housing, especially housing that working New Yorkers can afford — and this innovative public-private partnership will deliver just that,” said Chief of Staff Camille Joseph Varlack. “By investing in our workers and our city’s future, our partnership will help us build a city where all New Yorkers can make it.”

“Combatting our housing crisis requires innovative solutions, new sources of capital, and strong partnerships,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “This path-breaking new partnership between the City of New York, the Building and Construction Trades, and Cirrus Workforce Housing is yet another demonstration of the administration’s unrelenting commitment to using every tool available to bring relief for working-class New Yorkers.”

“The Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York and Vicinity is proud to be part of this historic partnership with the City of New York and Cirrus,” said Gary LaBarbera, president, BCTC. “This partnership will lead to the development of affordable workforce housing under negotiated Project Labor Agreements that will create family sustaining union careers for New Yorkers. We believe that the union funds investing in this program have demonstrated tremendous vision and we look forward to building the housing supply for the city’s working class.”

“Cirrus is excited to align as part of a public-private partnership with the City of New York and organized labor in an innovative, first-of-its-kind program that will provide much needed workforce housing for those who make the city work,” said Joe McDonnell, managing partner, Cirrus Real Estate Partners.

Released last month, the New York City Housing Vacancy Survey showed that its vacancy rate has dropped to its lowest since 1968, with many middle- and low- income New Yorkers experiencing increasing rent burden. For more than a century, government and labor have partnered together to build housing that the union workforce and other working-class residents can afford. More than 100,000 New Yorkers live in apartments built by the labor movement between 1926 and 1974, the majority through an organization called the United Housing Foundation.

To help combat the housing and affordability crisis, BCTC — in partnership with Cirrus — is pooling pension funds from eleven union funds. The goal is to invest in New York City-based housing projects that will deliver affordability at 80 to 140 percent area median income, and that is located near transit, that advances sustainable building goals, and that will be constructed under a negotiated project labor agreement with BCTC reflecting responsible contracting policies to advance fair wages, health and retirement benefits, and apprenticeships and other job training programs.

The new agreement outlines opportunities to create more affordable housing, including, as appropriate, by partnering on mixed-income housing projects with the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development; helping to accelerate qualified projects by enrolling them in the Adams administration’s Housing-at-Risk Task Force; exploring opportunities for financing and development through partner entities, such as the New York City Housing Development Corporation and the New York City Economic Development Corporation; and leveraging city-owned properties to create affordable housing, among other areas.

The agreement also builds on the Adams administration’s efforts to use every tool at its disposal to accelerate housing production and deliver the affordability New Yorkers need and deserve. Earlier this week, Mayor Adams announced a new initiative to provide up to $50 million to help Minority Business Enterprises developers overcome historical financial barriers and fully participate in the development of critically needed affordable housing for New Yorkers. Additionally, this past calendar year, Mayor Adams announced the city had closed on financing for the creation of an all-time record 14,227 new affordable homes and directly connected more New Yorkers to homes than ever before in the city’s history, bringing nearly 13,000 households into affordable units.

MAYOR ADAMS ADDS TO CITY HALL COMMUNICATIONS TEAM

Ryan Birchmeier to Serve as Communications Director

Erika Tannor to Serve as First Deputy Communications Director

Charles Lutvak to Serve as First Deputy Press Secretary

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the appointment of and elevation of key members of the City Hall communications team halfway through his first term. On the communications team, Ryan Birchmeier will serve as communications director, Erika Tannor will join the administration as first deputy communications director, and Noah Levine has been promoted to a deputy communications director. On the press team, Charles Kretchmer Lutvak has been promoted to first deputy press secretary, and Amaris Cockfield and Kayla Mamelak have each been promoted to deputy press secretary and communications advisor. On the research team, Sam Rosenblum and Margaret Turner will serve as deputy directors of research and analytics. Colby Rogers has also been promoted to special assistant in the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Communications. Mayor Adams will be making additional appointments to City Hall’s communications team in the coming weeks.

“Our press and communications teams are some of the hardest-working people in city government,” said Mayor Adams. “By elevating and bringing new voices to City Hall, we are making our administration even stronger, finding new ways to communicate information about services and the state of our city, and ultimately delivering a better product for New Yorkers.”

“Jobs are up, crime is down, and every day, we are delivering for working-class New Yorkers, but no New Yorker would know that if it wasn’t for the extraordinary public servants who dedicate countless hours to communicating that message to the people of New York,” said Deputy Mayor for Communications Fabien Levy. “The greatest city in the world is also home to some of the most talented and experienced communicators in the country, and, with these appointments, we are not only promoting the talent we have working for the city but bringing in new voices to help us communicate even more effectively to all New Yorkers. Our mission is clear: protect public safety, rebuild our economy, and make this city more livable — and this is the team who will help communicate that message every day.”

“In just over two years, Mayor Adams has driven New York City’s economic recovery and helped it reach a new jobs record, delivered a significant reduction in crime, and found new ways to improve the lives of working-class New Yorkers — all while managing a once-in-a-generation humanitarian crisis,” said Communications Director Ryan Birchmeier. “I am proud to continue serving alongside the dedicated members of this administration to further this work, and to help our city reach more New Yorkers in more meaningful ways.”

Biographies and details about additional appointments are included below:

Communications Team

About Ryan Birchmeier Ryan Birchmeier has led housing- and economic development-related communications for the Mayor’s Office since August 2023. He previously served as deputy commissioner for public information at the New York City Office of Technology and Innovation (OTI) — a new, consolidated technology agency created by Mayor Adams at the beginning of his administration. At OTI, Birchmeier oversaw the communications and intergovernmental affairs teams, crafted external affairs strategies for the rollout of the city’s artificial intelligence policy and digital government services, and led communications for citywide cybersecurity incident response. Prior to joining the Adams administration, Birchmeier was a senior vice president and partner at New York City-based strategic communications firm Thunder11, where he led global public affairs campaigns for technology, economic development, and public health organizations. Birchmeier previously worked as an assistant vice president at the New York City Economic Development Corporation and in several communications roles across the Philadelphia city government. He graduated from Saint Joseph’s University with a B.A. in English. Birchmeier will report to Deputy Mayor for Communications Fabien Levy.

About Erika Tannor

Erika Tannor will join the administration from Tusk Strategies, where she served as senior vice president and led nationwide, issue-based campaigns with a focus on coalition building, grassroots engagement, and media relations. While serving as communications and policy director to former New York City Councilmember Rafael Espinal, Tannor successfully built public and press momentum that guided significant legislation to passage. She was particularly instrumental in achieving the historic repeal of New York City’s notorious cabaret law and the creation of the first-ever Office of Nightlife, amongst other cornerstone accomplishments. Tannor also worked for then-New York City Public Advocate Letitia James, at the New York City Department of Consumer Affairs, and on several city and statewide electoral campaigns. She has been recognized by City & State on their “40 under 40” and “10 in their 20s” lists and was a founding board member of the 5BORO Institute, a non-profit think tank focused on advancing policy solutions for the city. A native New Yorker hailing from Queens, Tannor graduated from Mount Holyoke College with a B.A. in politics and earned a Master of Public Policy from the University of Oxford.

Tannor will report to Communications Director Ryan Birchmeier.

About Noah Levine

Noah Levine will serve as a deputy communications director. He joined the Adams administration in 2022 as chief of staff to the communications director. He previously served as deputy press secretary for Everytown for Gun Safety, where he focused on gun safety litigation and legislative strategy. Levine’s time at Everytown culminated with the passage of the first major federal gun safety legislation in decades. He received a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Pennsylvania.

Levine will report to Communications Director Ryan Birchmeier.

Press Team

About Charles Lutvak

Charles Kretchmer Lutvak has been promoted to first deputy press secretary. Lutvak joined City Hall as deputy press secretary in 2022 after serving in the same role on Scott Stringer’s campaign for mayor in 2021. He previously worked at Risa Heller Communications. Lutvak received a B.A. in Political Science and Music from Carleton College and is a lifelong New Yorker.

Lutvak will report to Deputy Mayor for Communications Fabien Levy until a new press secretary is named.

About Amaris Cockfield

Amaris Cockfield will take on new responsibilities as a communications advisor in addition to her current role as deputy press secretary. At City Hall, Cockfield has led mayoral press events, served as an on-record spokesperson, and handled media inquiries for the Adams administration. Cockfield previously worked at Mercury Public Affairs and served as a director of communications in the New York State Assembly. She attended the University at Albany – SUNY for her B.A. in Communications.

Cockfield will report to First Deputy Press Secretary Charles Lutvak.

About Kayla Mamelak

Kayla Mamelak will take on new responsibilities as a communications advisor in addition to her current role as deputy press secretary. She joined the Adams administration in the summer of 2022, serving as a spokesperson and helping to build out media strategies for press conferences and other administration announcements. Prior to her role at City Hall, Mamelak was a reporter for FOX5 New York. She received a B.S. from Boston University.

Mamelak will report to First Deputy Press Secretary Charles Lutvak.

Research Team

About Samuel Rosenblum

Samuel Rosenblum will serve as a deputy director of research. He joined the Adams administration in May 2022 as a research analyst in the Office of Research and Media Analysis. Before serving in the Adams administration, Rosenblum worked at G/O Media. A native New Yorker, Rosenblum graduated from the University of Michigan with a double major in International Studies and History.

Rosenblum will report to First Deputy Press Secretary Charles Lutvak.

About Margaret Turner

Margaret Turner will serve as a deputy director of research. She joined the Adams administration in October 2022 as a research analyst in the Office of Research and Media Analysis. Before joining the administration, Turner worked as a communications associate and assistant to the CEO at Haddad Media in Washington, D.C. Turner earned her B.A. in Political Science and International Relations from Tulane University.

Turner will report to First Deputy Press Secretary Charles Lutvak.

Deputy Mayor’s Team

About Colby Rogers

Colby Rogers has been promoted to special assistant in the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Communications. Rogers joined City Hall in May 2023 as a press assistant. Previously, he worked as deputy political director for U.S. Representative Mike Levin’s 2022 re-election campaign. Rogers graduated from the University of Chicago with a double major in Public Policy and History.

Rogers will report to Deputy Mayor for Communications Fabien Levy.

MAYOR ADAMS’ STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT BIDEN’S 2024 STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS

NEW YORK– New York City Mayor Eric Adams tonight released the following statement after President Joseph Biden delivered his 2024 State of the Union address:

“President Biden’s State of the Union address rightly focused on the working-class, blue-collar people that make our nation so strong. Just like in New York City, working-class people are the ones who have built our country from the ground up, and our future depends on an agenda that builds them up too.

“I am glad to hear the president remind us of how far our nation’s economy has come in the last three years — helping to grow jobs to historic levels, including here in New York City, where, just today, we learned we’ve hit another record-high job total in our city’s history. The president inherited an economy on the brink, but, like our administration, helped lead us out of COVID and prioritized safely reopening the economy to get people back to work. And he wants to invest in child care, paid family leave, and other vital programs that will help support New Yorkers and other working-class families nationwide.

“I was glad to hear President Biden talk about his bold plans to curb our nation’s housing crisis. We know all too well that New Yorkers need relief from this crisis, and they need it now. That is why our administration is fighting so hard for Albany to deliver new tools to help us create new housing and why we are advancing our historic ’City of Yes for Housing Opportunity’ proposal here in New York City to build a little more housing in every neighborhood.

“Finally, I was glad to hear the president recognize the need to tackle the border crisis and finally pass long-overdue, comprehensive immigration reform. We face a once-in-a-generation national humanitarian crisis, but far-right Republicans have chosen to politicize this issue and block bipartisan legislation just because we are in an election year. In recent weeks, I have been encouraged to hear that the president is heeding our call and considering taking executive action to manage our broken immigration system. I am hopeful that any action provides cities with federal funding to cover the costs of this crisis, expedited work authorizations for migrants, and a nationwide resettlement strategy so that a handful of cities are not handling an influx of asylum seekers on their own.

“In the years to come, our administration looks forward to continuing to work with the Biden-Harris administration to deliver greater public safety, continued growth for our economy, and a city and country that is more livable for all.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES NEW $25 MILLION SPACE TO HELP LAUNCH AND GROW BIPOC, WOMAN-OWNED, OTHER HEALTH AND BEAUTY BUSINESSES AT BROOKLYN NAVY YARD

R.F. Wilkins Consultants to Develop and Operate State-of-the-Art Facility to Position New York City as Leader in Nearly $450 Billion Health and Beauty Industry

Facility Will Create an Estimated 900 Direct and Indirect Jobs in First Five Years

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic, and Workforce Development Maria Torres-Springer, and Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corporation President and CEO Lindsay Greene today announced a new, total cost $25 million state-of-the-art manufacturing, incubator, and accelerator facility — AYO Labs at the Brooklyn Navy Yard — focused on helping businesses, especially Black-, indigenous-, and other people of color-owned (BIPOC) and woman-owned health and beauty businesses, launch and grow in New York City. R.F. Wilkins Consultants has been selected to develop and operate the project, which is expected to create over 900 direct and indirect jobs in the first five years, as well as strengthen New York City’s position as a leader in the $450 billion health and beauty industry. Once complete, AYO Labs will be one of the country’s largest Black woman-owned contract manufacturing facilities anchored in a business incubator and accelerator.

“Our administration believes we have a critical role in helping small businesses turn their big dreams into a reality. Today, I am proud that R.F. Wilkins Consultants, a Black woman-owned-and-run firm, is seeing their dream come to life,” said Mayor Adams. “While the beauty and wellness industry continues to boom by serving Black and Brown people, that wealth has not come back to those same communities. With this announcement, New York City is taking a stand, putting money back in the pockets of Black and Brown entrepreneurs, especially women of color. Our investment in AYO Labs at the Brooklyn Navy Yard will help small businesses — including many owned by BIPOC and women entrepreneurs — enter the beauty market, develop and scale up their brands, and become the next generation of successful entrepreneurs.”

“Our minority- and women-owned businesses are the backbone of our city, and they deserve our support in growing their companies from dreams to powerhouses,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Torres-Springer. “AYO Labs at the Brooklyn Navy Yard will be a tremendous resource for BIPOC and women-owned businesses in a massive and growing health and beauty industry that has historically not been accessible to them. I’m grateful to the Brooklyn Navy Yard for paving the way on inclusive economic development and creating innovative spaces to build and sustain the city’s diversity of small businesses.”

“AYO Labs at the Brooklyn Navy Yard will bolster New York City’s reputation as a place where viable manufacturing can and does still happen, and defines what inclusive economic development looks like,” said Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corporation President and CEO Greene. “Bringing visions like this to life at the Brooklyn Navy Yard is at the core of our mission. The development of this new contract manufacturing, accelerator and incubator will help level the playing field for the emerging BIPOC and woman-owned companies and generate economic mobility for countless families and the city as a whole.”

“New York City is the global capital of innovation,” said New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS) Commissioner Kevin D. Kim. “AYO Labs at the Brooklyn Navy Yard is honoring that tradition by helping over 100 diverse entrepreneurs bring their dreams to life. SBS is eager to work with the Brooklyn Navy Yard and R.F. Wilkins, one of the city’s own certified M/WBEs, to support the next generation of entrepreneurs here in New York City.”

“Creating a more equitable business environment for our city’s small business community, including BIPOC businesses, WBEs, and certified M/WBEs, has long been a personal and professional priority for me and is a key priority for the Adams administration,” said Chief Business Diversity Officer Michael J. Garner. “Business incubators and accelerators are effective tools in helping small and minority-owned businesses navigate the often-difficult path towards long-term sustainability and encourages prospective entrepreneurs to pursue their business passions, which ultimately creates employment opportunities, sustains local economies, and promotes generational wealth building. I applaud Mayor Adams and the Brooklyn Navy Yard for this investment in a growing industry, where BIPOC and women-owned businesses have proven to be creative leaders and stand as an able partner in this work.”    

“Small businesses are the lifeline of New York City,” said Francilia Wilkins Rahim, founder and CEO, R.F. Wilkins Consultants and AYO Labs at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. “We all know someone mixing shea butter, beard cream, lip gloss, and a plethora of other products in their home. AYO Labs will help these businesses streamline and scale while serving as a state-of-the-art contract manufacturing and innovation hub for nationwide brands of all sizes. This project is a groundbreaking step towards supporting the BIPOC entrepreneurial ecosystem — an ecosystem that, in turn, nourishes and empowers all New Yorkers. R.F. Wilkins Consultants is honored to partner with the local community, New York City, Brooklyn Navy Yard, and industry leaders nationwide to bring this project to fruition.”

Phase one of the $25 million project is expected to be completed by 2025 and will deliver a 26,000-square-foot, $12 million manufacturing ecosystem to support over 100 entrepreneurs annually as they develop and scale their companies. Phase two is expected to be completed by 2026 and will expand the facility to bring an additional 14,000 square-feet of manufacturing space online.

To close the equity gap in the beauty and wellness industry, AYO Labs will help reduce long-standing barriers and support BIPOC and women entrepreneurs in entering and scaling their health and beauty businesses. The space will also serve as a manufacturing hub to some of the nation’s largest wellness brands. The facility will support product formulation, small and large batch manufacturing, and packaging services. It will also provide the tools, resources, and support needed to turn innovative ideas into thriving businesses with programming for early-stage entrepreneurs. Small businesses participating in the incubator and accelerator cohorts will have access to tech-driven back-office support, world-class instructors, hands-on training, technical assistance, mentorship, and networking opportunities, as well as access to capital.

According to a 2022 McKinsey report, addressing racial inequity in the beauty industry presents enormous economic opportunity. Despite the wellness and beauty industry accounting for a nearly $450 billion market share that is expected to grow to $600 billion by 2030, only 2.5 percent of the revenue can be linked to Black-founded or -owned beauty companies despite Black consumers making up 11 percent of spending. Moreover, on average, Black brands raise just $13 million of venture capital start-up funding — approximately two-thirds of the median $20 million that non-Black brands raise.

R.F. Wilkins Consultants will partner with McKissack & McKissack and Studio 397 Architecture, two additional Black woman-owned businesses, to design and build out AYO Labs at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Jacklitch Gardner serves as the architect of record on the project, a New York-based Minority- and Woman-Owned Business Enterprise (M/WBE) firm. Building on R.F Wilkins Consultant’s $1.5 million investment, Phase 1 of the project will also be funded by the New York City Council, the Office of the Brooklyn Borough President, and Lendistry, a community development financial institution.

“AYO Labs at Brooklyn Navy Yard will be a game changer for economic growth, uplifting all of our diverse communities,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “One of the country’s largest Black woman-owned facilities of its kind, it will generate 900 jobs and support over 100 BIPOC- and women-owned health and beauty businesses, whose owners will reinvest their revenue in underserved communities. The facility will also cement our status as the epicenter of the $450 billion health and beauty industry. I applaud Mayor Adams and President Greene for their commitment to the growth of M/WBEs. I am proud of my record of supporting M/WBEs in Albany, including empowering the city to do larger contracts with M/WBEs, and will continue to deliver the support these businesses need to grow and thrive.”

“Expanding opportunities for Black- and women-owned businesses to succeed is critical for our communities and local economy,” said New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams. “The new AYO Labs at the Brooklyn Navy Yard will support local entrepreneurs seeking to make their mark in the growing wellness and beauty industry. Through training programs, networking, business development resources, and other financial assistance, this new facility will bolster small businesses and advance the next generation of entrepreneurs in our city.”

“New York’s health and beauty industry is getting a big boost right here in Brooklyn,” said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. “I applaud Mayor Adams and the Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corporation for moving forward with plans to bring a multi-purpose business facility to the Brooklyn Navy Yard. AYO Labs will be a huge benefit to Brooklyn’s economy. I am looking forward to its completion and to seeing this project advance BIPOC- and woman-owned businesses in New York’s $600 billion health and beauty industry.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES CITY HALL, MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS TO BE LIT RED TO COMMEMORATE RED CROSS MONTH

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced that City Hall and several municipal buildings will be lit red tonight in recognition of Red Cross Month — a national movement honoring those who make the lifesaving mission of the American Red Cross possible.

“This Red Cross Month, we recognize the unwavering dedication of the American Red Cross as it continues to deliver for New York City and for communities across the country,” said Mayor Adams. “Their commitment to providing relief and support in times of crisis embodies the spirit of service that defines our city. I’m inviting New Yorkers to join the mission by volunteering, giving blood, learning lifesaving skills, or making a financial donation if you can. Most importantly, let us join together in gratitude for their vital work and in support of their mission to alleviate suffering and save lives.”

In addition to City Hall, the following city buildings and iconic New York City sites will be lit up red 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 Ter, Staten Island, NY 10301

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES PROGRESS TO IMPROVE CARE AND SERVICES FOR PEOPLE IN CUSTODY, ADVANCES PLANS FOR FUTURE USES OF RIKERS ISLAND

Adams Administration Announces $14 Million for Enhanced Programming Initiatives to Support People in Custody as They Return to Their Communities

NYC Health + Hospitals to Move Forward with Construction of More than 350 Outposted Therapeutic Housing Beds

Administration Announces Completion of Feasibility Studies on Potential of Building Renewable Energy Infrastructure on Rikers Island

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced progress on several jails-focused initiatives to provide greater care and enhanced programming for people in custody and released two feasibility studies on potential sustainability uses of Rikers Island. The city will invest $14 million to enhance programing initiatives for people in custody. Mayor Adams also directed NYC Health + Hospitals to move forward with construction of more than 350 outposted therapeutic housing beds that will increase access to specialty health care services for people in custody while moving those who are most clinically vulnerable off of Rikers. Additionally, the administration announced the completion of the Feasibility Study for a New Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility on Rikers Island and the Renewable Rikers Feasibility Study Report, required under local law, that assess the potential building of renewable energy infrastructure on Rikers Island.

“Ensuring dignity, safety, and care of all justice-involved New Yorkers is a top priority for our administration and today’s announcement will provide greater access to specialized medical care for people in our custody, as well as delivering much-needed resources to support those who are preparing to return to their communities,” said Mayor Adams. “While our commitment to the success of our jails is unwavering, we are also planning for the future of Rikers by releasing these studies that asses the feasibility of bringing renewable energy infrastructure to the Island.”

“As we implement plans to house incarcerated New Yorkers with greater dignity and care, we must also envision a future for Rikers Island — one that supports New York’s significant energy and sustainability needs,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “This is an opportunity not only to reimagine a better criminal justice landscape in this city, but a better environmental justice landscape too.”

“The investments announced today show the administration’s commitment to support the whole-person through difficult life transitions and thereby strengthening our communities overall,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “As New Yorkers engage with and transition from the justice system, they will receive support ranging from workforce development, transportation, community connections, educational opportunities, housing assistance, and health care, among others. Additionally, we will open hundreds of beds in outposted housing units that will serve those with specialized clinical needs. Thank you to all involved in this multi-agency effort to walk with people as they build productive, fulfilling lives.”

“Programs providing education, health and wellness, and transitional services are essential for improving the safety of our jails and creating better outcomes for those in our care and custody,” said New York City Department of Correction (DOC) Commissioner Lynelle Maginley-Liddie. “Investments in programming can lead to reductions in violence, lower rates of recidivism, and pathways to higher education and employment.”

Enhanced Programming on Rikers Island

Mayor Adams today announced $14 million in funding for DOC to increase programming initiatives for people in custody in New York City jails. Building on the department’s commitment to addressing the needs of individuals in its care, DOC identified five key areas to bolster support for people in custody. Initiatives to receive funding include:

Trauma-Informed Programming: DOC will ensure improved access to trauma-informed care for people in custody through the creation of a social work, mental health, and creative arts therapy team that supports learning opportunities for graduate-level students. Trauma-informed programming will be available to sentenced individuals and detainees with specialized needs.
Transition Planning Programming: DOC will invest in transition planners who will be assigned to each general population housing area and at intake at a higher frequency to ensure consistent assistance to navigate reentry challenges and establish a foundation for long-term stability. Transition planners stationed at the facility’s intake will serve as a crucial point of contact prior to discharge, mirroring a hospital model for a seamless transition to the community. Transition planners will facilitate reentry workshops, assist in resume development, and support individuals transitioning to state prisons.
Substance Misuse Programming: Funding for substance misuse programming will ensure the provision of substance use education and support groups, as well as support transition planning specific to substance misuse. Substance misuse programming will be available to sentenced individuals and detainees with substance misuse needs. In 2023, 4,266 individuals self-reported drug use.
Supplemental Educational Programming: Funding for supplemental educational programming will ensure the provision of basic literacy, numeracy, general education diploma preparation, and English Language Learner services and college readiness, as well as tutoring for people in custody.
Transportation Programming: DOC will offer transportation to community-based services to people upon discharge, making it easier for people to access emergency housing, employment, substance misuse services, and family reunification. Discharge transportation will enable DOC to provide critical support during the at-risk period immediately following incarceration, decreasing the likelihood of recidivism.

Outposted Therapeutic Housing Units

The Adams administration is also moving forward with construction of outposted therapeutic housing units at NYC Health + Hospitals/Woodhull and North Central Bronx as part of its commitment to increasing access to specialty care services for people in custody while moving the most clinically vulnerable people off of Rikers. The units will house patients who have serious medical, mental health, and substance-use needs and would benefit from a more structured, clinical environment. DOC will provide security and custody management in the units, and NYC Health + Hospitals/Correctional Health Services (CHS) will continue to be the primary provider of care, in closer coordination with hospital specialists.

Construction is already underway at NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue, the first of the three units, with anticipated completion by spring 2025. Construction of the units at NYC Health + Hospitals/Woodhull and North Central Bronx will be completed in summer 2027, assuming timely completion of design and barring significant unforeseen field conditions. Construction of all units is fully funded, with a total capital investment of $718 million, and will comprise approximately 360 beds, depending on final designs. All three hospitals will benefit from an infusion of funds to renovate and repurpose hospital space to create the outposted therapeutic housing units. NYC Health + Hospitals/Woodhull recently relocated and renovated its inpatient pediatrics unit, and upgraded other clinical and administrative spaces, to prepare for the construction of the outposted unit.

Studying The Future Use of Rikers Island

As the Adams administration continues to explore the future development of Rikers Island, the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Mayor’s Office of Climate and Environmental Justice (MOCEJ) today released two feasibility studies assessing the possibility of using the island’s available buildable land to help the city and state achieve shared clean energy goals, while investing in the city’s infrastructure and repurposing Rikers Island to advance climate justice. Both studies offer an alternative to older wastewater infrastructure and present solutions that would contribute significantly to the city’s climate and energy transition goals.

As required by Local Law 31 of 2021, DEP completed the “Feasibility Study for a New Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility on Rikers Island,” which concludes that the construction of a new state-of-the-art Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF) on Rikers Island to consolidate operations of four existing facilities is both viable and presents a unique and transformational opportunity for DEP’s operations.

As required by Local Law 17 of 2021, MOCEJ completed the “Renewable Rikers Feasibility Study Report,” which assesses siting of renewable energy infrastructure on Rikers Island. It includes an evaluation of five different scenarios to achieve cost savings, emissions reductions, and energy performance goals, and presents a preferred scenario that includes a combination of solar, battery storage, offshore wind interconnections, and a WRRF.

“The city has an opportunity to reimagine how Rikers Island can serve New Yorkers,” said New York City Chief Climate Officer and DEP Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala. “The DEP and MOCEJ studies present options that would turn Rikers Island into a center of state-of-the-art green technologies that would help us achieve our energy, air quality, and water quality improvement goals.”

“‘Renewable Rikers’ was born out of the idea that the future of Rikers Island can contribute to a sustainable and resilient New York City and provide benefits to New Yorkers who have been most impacted by our criminal justice system,” said MOCEJ Executive Director Elijah Hutchinson. “Our research found Rikers Island has the potential to be a home for solar installations, battery storage systems, and offshore wind interconnection infrastructure, helping New York City reach its world-leading, ambitious climate goals. We look forward to working with the Rikers Island Advisory Committee and stakeholders, who first put forward the vision of a renewable Rikers.”

“The Outposted Therapeutic Housing Units are an innovative approach to carceral health care, and we are thrilled to advance this groundbreaking model,” said Dr. Patsy Yang, senior vice president for correctional health services, NYC Health + Hospitals. “The initiative is also a testament to the strength and commitment of the NYC Health + Hospitals system in caring for all New Yorkers, particularly the most vulnerable.”

“Investments in programming and therapeutic beds are essential components of an overall commitment to safety for staff, people in custody, and the broader public,” said Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice Director Deanna Logan. “I look forward to working with my colleagues at the Department of Correction, NYC Health + Hospitals, and all other city agencies that are dedicated to realizing Mayor Adams’ vision of a safe and fair criminal justice system in New York City.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES $50 MILLION INITIATIVE TO REDUCE BARRIERS AND SUPPORT MINORITY-OWNED DEVELOPERS TO BUILD MORE AFFORDABLE HOUSING

Effort Expected to Enable $500 Million in Private Construction Lending to Minority-Owned Affordable Housing Developers Through Partnership With Goldman Sachs and Community Preservation Corporation

As Adams Administration Doubles Down on Commitment to Fight Housing Crisis, City Needs More Tools from Albany to Build Affordable Homes for New Yorkers

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Housing Preservation Development (HPD) Commissioner Adolfo Carrión Jr., and New York City Housing Development Corporation (HDC) President Eric Enderlin today announced a new initiative to provide up to $50 million to help Minority Business Enterprises (MBE) developers overcome historical financial barriers and fully participate in the development of critically needed affordable housing for New Yorkers. Established in partnership with the Urban Investment Group at Goldman Sachs and the Community Preservation Corporation (CPC) the new “New York City Minority Business Enterprise Guaranty Facility” is expected to enable as much as $500 million in private construction lending to MBEs.

Today’s announcement builds on Mayor Adams’ commitment to fight the housing crisis as he continues calls made in his State of the City Address for Albany to deliver a housing package this session that will help create the affordable homes New Yorkers need and deserve.

“For too long, Minority Business Enterprises have faced systemic barriers and restrictive financial requirements in our construction sector that have prevented them from being a part of the solution to the affordable housing crisis,” said Mayor Adams. “Today’s $50 million initiative is a major step forward towards our goal of building a fairer, more equitable New York City while creating housing, jobs, and opportunity for all. As we said in this year’s State of the City address: this city and this nation are facing a massive housing crisis. To face this moment, we must be a ‘City of Yes’ — ‘yes’ in my backyard, ‘yes’ on my block, ‘yes’ in my city, and ‘yes’ to our MBEs.”

“Minority Business Enterprises are critical drivers of affordable housing development across the five boroughs,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “This new initiative is a powerful way to combat our housing crisis while addressing the historical inequities and gaps in capital for MBE businesses. I am excited to see this unprecedented investment bolster diverse businesses and help us forge a clear path for equitable growth in our city.” 

“In order for New York City to stay competitive on a global stage, we must ensure we’re building the affordable housing we need, and minority-housing development partners are a key part of that path forward,” said HPD Commissioner Carrión. “This new initiative, in partnership with Goldman Sachs, CPC, and HDC, is a major step in the right direction, removing barriers that will allow minority developers to grow, stay competitive, and build more housing — just as our city needs it the most.”

“With the launch of the MBE Guaranty Facility, the city is making strides to address barriers that have historically limited minority-owned business enterprises from participating in the development of affordable housing,” said HDC President Enderlin. “HDC is proud to partner with HPD, CPC, and Goldman Sachs to provide more equitable access to low-cost capital through the facility and promote greater opportunity for our MBE development partners to succeed.”

“In establishing the MBE Guaranty Facility, New York City is taking action against entrenched barriers to entry to this industry that have their roots in a history of structural racism,” said New York City Executive Director for Housing Leila Bozorg. “I’m proud to see HPD and HDC partner with Goldman Sachs and the Community Preservation Corporation on this $50 million initiative, which not only proactively removes obstacles that have prevented minority-owned firms from taking part in the creation of affordable housing, but that will stimulate even greater opportunities and access to capital going forward.”

“Access to affordable housing remains a persistent and considerable generational challenge for large urban cities like our own,” said Chief Business Diversity Officer Michael J. Garner. “Far too often, working- and middle-class families, who are most responsible for ensuring that our great city continues to operate like one, are unable to participate in its benefits. That dynamic also holds true with our diverse community of minority-owned businesses that are critical to supporting local economies yet are often left out of meaningful city development opportunities funded by taxpayer dollars. This partnership between the city, Goldman Sachs, and Community Preservation Corporation is an example of what we can achieve through great public-private partnerships and the political will to accomplish meaningful things. I applaud and stand alongside Mayor Adams in his commitment to ‘Get Stuff Done’ the right way, and in assisting New York City certified minority-owned developers who’ve historically been excluded.”  

“This facility is one of the first products in the market to directly address the financial barriers that preclude many minority developers from accessing capital,” said Asahi Pompey, global head of corporate engagement, Goldman Sachs. “Through One Million Black Women, this innovative, collaborative funding model will not only finance MBE developers, but create affordable housing that is responsive to community needs.”   

“We are excited to partner with the city and CPC to create an ecosystem that enables minority-owned businesses to scale,” said Sherry Wang, co-head, Urban Investment Group, Goldman Sachs. “After two decades of investing with MBE developers, we know that access to affordable capital is one of the major barriers they face, and we are dedicated to creating new innovations and solutions.”

“CPC is proud to partner with Goldman Sachs to support our partners at HPD and HDC in providing the resources and assistance that our city’s MBEs need to expand their capacity and grow their businesses on their own terms,” said Rafael E. Cestero, CEO, Community Preservation Corporation. “This isn’t just an investment in capital, it’s an investment in building people up and closing the racial wealth gap, in building local businesses and economies, and in creating more equitable and affordable communities.”

MBEs have historically faced challenges securing construction loans due to restrictive financial barriers, including lender guaranty and liquidity requirements, often resulting in the need to form a partnership with larger firms that dilutes their ownership and reduces their developer fees, or entirely prevents them from participating in affordable housing developments. The MBE Guaranty Facility removes those barriers by providing a total of up to $50 million in back-stop guaranties, allowing MBE developers to independently access the capital required to secure construction financing and develop city-financed affordable housing projects in New York City. The MBE Guaranty Facility includes a $25 million commitment from HDC on behalf of the city and a $25 million commitment from Goldman Sachs Asset Management over a five-year period, with CPC serving as the facility manager. The $50 million is expected to leverage as much as $500 million in investment in affordable housing. Goldman Sachs’ commitment is a part of its One Million Black Women initiative, which aims to deploy $10 billion in direct investment capital and $100 million in philanthropic capital over the next 10 years in partnership with Black-women-led organizations, financial institutions, and other partners to address the dual disproportionate gender and racial biases that Black women have faced for generations.

To be eligible, developers must be a certified MBE with a strong development track record and a demonstrated need for the capital. Joint ventures are allowed if the partner is a non-controlling, not-for-profit entity, such as a faith-based organization. Eligible projects include affordable housing projects in the city’s construction financing pipeline expecting to close within six months and with a senior private construction loan up to $50 million. The MBE Guaranty Facility will provide guaranties up to 10 percent of the applicable senior loan value and will begin accepting applications in winter 2024, with the first projects expected to close by the end of Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 or early FY25. To learn more, MBE developers should ask their HPD project managers for more information.

Mayor Adams is delivering on a commitment towards increasing economic equity across New York City, especially with Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (M/WBE). In FY23 — the first full fiscal year of the Adams administration — city agencies and affiliated entities awarded over $6 billion in total to M/WBE firms through the OneNYC initiative, the city’s goal to award $25 billion in contracts to M/WBEs by FY 2025, contracting with a record-setting 1,903 certified vendor firms. The M/WBE figures include more than $1.4 billion in contracts awarded to M/WBEs under the Local Law 1 program — setting a record in M/WBE contracts since the program’s creation in 2013 — and tied the city’s highest-ever M/WBE utilization rate of 28 percent for one fiscal year.

Mayor Adams implemented expanded discretionary authority under the non-competitive purchase methods, unleashing millions of dollars in additional contract awards to M/WBEs. Using that method, the city also awarded a record-setting $175 million dollars in contracts to M/WBEs — a 60 percent increase over FY22 and more than double the contract value in previous fiscal years. Additionally, 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.

The Adams administration is playing its part to build more housing, breaking several records for producing much-needed affordable housing amid a severe housing shortage in the five boroughs. Data released by the Adams administration shows that, in calendar year 2023, the HPD and HDC closed on financing for the creation of an all-time record-breaking 14,227 new affordable homes. HPD also directly connected more New Yorkers to homes than ever before, bringing nearly 13,000 households into affordable units in 2023. As part of “Housing Our Neighbors: A Blueprint for Housing and Homelessness,” Mayor Adams committed to expanding access to capital, and is ensuring that MBE developers have access to the opportunities created by this investment.

“Today, we launch a historic initiative to empower the diverse communities of New York, while bringing us closer to our moonshot goal of 500,000 new homes,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “The New York City Minority Business Enterprise Guaranty Facility will provide half a billion dollars in construction lending for our MBEs to build vitally-needed affordable housing. This will uplift minority-owned developers, tearing down their barriers to capital and giving them a fair share of contracting dollars. Those contractors will invest that money right back in their communities, opening the door to new economic opportunities. This is all part of Mayor Adams’ ambitious housing agenda, and I am partnering with him in Albany to deliver this year the affordable housing package our city needs.”

“I commend Mayor Adams for leading with the talents of minority-owned businesses in the creation of more affordable housing for New Yorkers,” said New York State Assemblymember Rebecca Seawright. “This $50 million initiative will reduce barriers to lending opportunities and support minority-owned developers to build more affordable housing for New Yorkers, a win-win for our city and state.”

“The launch of the MBE Guaranty Facility is a major milestone in MBE contracting. Under Mayor Adam’s leadership, New York City’s housing agencies are leading the nation by intentionally addressing the hurdles forged by historical inequities,” said Craig Livingston, board chair, New York Real Estate Chamber (NYREC), and managing partner, Exact Capital Group. “The Department of Housing Preservation and Development should be commended for not doing business as usual, but instead, for listening to the needs of the MBE community and responding by creating a financial vehicle that will allow for greater participation by MBE developers. The MBE Guaranty Facility will help to increase equitable participation in our real estate economy by MBE firms that have been marginalized due primarily to the wealth gap.”

“In the past 10 years, HPD and HDC collectively, have thoughtfully and strategically responded to its partners and the community on ways in which to increase minority participation in all facets of the development process of affordable housing,” said Ericka Keller, managing member, Brisa Builders Development LLC. “The MBE Developer Guaranty Facility joins the ranks of the M/WBE Build Up Program and the M/WBE Request for Proposals as a mechanism upon which to open the doors of opportunity in a meaningful and sustainable way. We thank the agencies for listening and for their action!”

“Infinite Horizons is excited for the launch of this groundbreaking initiative that will support the growth of M/WBE developers across the city at this critical time when city needs more affordable housing,” said Randall E. Powell, CPM, RPA, co-founder and CEO, Infinite Horizons, LLC. “We believe a program like this will have far reaching impact on the affordable housing industry. Thanks to the mayor’s office for its continued support of MWBE’s across the city as well as the collaboration between all the stakeholders involved with launching this impactful initiative HPD, CPC, Goldman Sachs and NYREC!”

“Apex celebrates this NYC MBE Guaranty Facility as it establishes a needed resource for affordable housing, and it is grounded in the belief that diverse teams produce better results,” said Robert Horsford, president, Apex Building Group. “As an MBE developer our goal is to strengthen and revitalize communities through affordable housing and added support to minority-owned enterprises seeking to build in New York City is welcome at this critical time.”

“As Shams DaBaron, also known as ‘Da Housing Hero,’ my journey is intertwined with the mission of broadening the horizons of affordable housing and advocating for equity in a space traditionally closed off to minorities,” said Shams DaBaron, homelessness and housing advocate. “This groundbreaking initiative presented by the City of New York, Goldman Sachs, and the Community Preservation Corporation resonates deeply with my commitment to leveling the playing field and fostering an environment where diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just ideals, but tangible realities. In my initial dialogue with Mayor Eric Adams at the start of his administration we talked about the prospects of our city, and it was clear: his dedication to rectifying the historical inequities that have marred our city’s landscape was unwavering. Today, as we stand on the brink of this monumental partnership’s unveiling, it’s evident that Mayor Adams is not only honoring but exceeding his commitment. This initiative, the New York City MBE Guaranty Facility, is a bold step towards a future where minority-owned businesses are at the forefront of shaping our housing landscape, not on the margins. Together, we will craft more than mere structures; we will build a New York City where opportunity is a universally accessible right, laying the groundwork for genuine economic empowerment for the previously overlooked. This moment is a powerful testament to the incredible feats we can achieve when our actions align with our commitment to enrich and uplift every New Yorker.”

“The Latino community is the fastest growing in New York City. However, our participation in the for-profit public-private partnerships that create and preserve affordable housing in the city is among the lowest of all minority groups,” said Juan Barahona, principal, SMJ Development. “We are not physically shaping nor creating work opportunities in our own community. The New York City MBE Developer Guaranty Facility is a tremendous barrier buster in that regard. It will enable more Latino and other MBE owned firms to overcome the structural impediments to being deemed credit-worthy to undertake complex and larger housing projects, and the pool of capable MBE sponsors will grow as a result. SMJ applauds and thanks the Adams administration and all the leaders and team members at HPD, HDC, Goldman Sachs, and CPC that persevered to make this facility a reality. ¡Adelante!”

“The study ‘Breaking the Glass Bottleneck: The Economic Potential of Black and Hispanic Real Estate Developers and the Constraints They Face’ by the Grove Collective Foundation provides that real estate development by Black and Hispanic developers is an important tool in closing the racial wealth gap,” said Thomas Campbell, principal, Thorobird Companies. “Financial guarantees remain a critical impediment and the MBE Guaranty Facility genuinely meets the challenge head on. I commend the Adams administration, Goldman Sachs, and all parties involved.”

“This guaranty facility is intended to dismantle barriers confronting smaller firms, facilitating growth and operational scalability for small-scale developers.” Jerrod Delaine, CEO, the Delaine Companies.

“This initiative has the potential to be game-changing for minority-owned businesses in the construction industry,” said Allan Suarez, owner and COO, All Renovation Construction LLC. “It’s inspiring to see New York City, along with partners Goldman Sachs and Community Preservation Corporation, take the lead and pave the way for other cities to follow suit. I’m incredibly grateful to have been involved in its development and witness the launch, and I’m optimistic about the positive ripple effects it will have throughout the industry.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES SELECTION OF TWO FIRMS TO REDESIGN SCAFFOLDING SHEDS, PEDESTRIAN SAFETY EQUIPMENT AS PART OF ‘GET SHEDS DOWN’ INITIATIVE

Selections Announced at Public Hearing After Extensive Selection Process,

Includes Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprise

New Designs Will Phase Out Current Green Pipe-and-Plywood Sidewalk Shed Designs with

More Cost-Efficient, Better-Looking Designs

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Department of Buildings Commissioner (DOB) Jimmy Oddo, and Mayor’s Office of Contract Services (MOCS) Director Lisa Flores today announced the selection of two companies — Arup US and Practice for Architecture and Urbanism (PAU) — to deliver six new better-looking, more cost-efficient designs for scaffolding/construction sheds and pedestrian safety equipment. The redesigns will include four options for sidewalk-level sheds and two options for non-sidewalk-level pedestrian safety equipment, such as mesh fiber wraps or netting. Those six designs will be publicly released by the city to give every contractor the ability to build and use them, further driving down costs through competition.

Part of Mayor Adams’ ‘Get Sheds Down’ plan, the new designs will improve the pedestrian experience, beautify the streetscape, keep costs low for building owners, and provide more aesthetically-pleasing pedestrian safety equipment. The city will incorporate the new designs into the building code and make them available for public use, improving upon the current hunter green pipe-and-plywood sheds that are used today. The new designs will be implemented by early 2025.

“As we work toward removing scaffolding and construction sheds faster, we also recognize the function that sheds play in keeping pedestrians safe, but that doesn’t mean they have to be a drab eyesore. Today, we’re taking an important step toward redesigning sheds and scaffolding, making them better-looking and keeping costs low,” said Mayor Adams. “By phasing out our current green, plywood sheds, we’re reimagining how our sidewalks should look, while building a safer and more welcoming city. This administration will continue our commitment toward ‘Getting Sheds Down,’ beautifying our streets, and improving quality of life standards for all New Yorkers.”

“While we work to ‘Get Sheds Down,’ we also need to ensure that those that are up for New Yorkers’ safety showcase — rather than shroud — our city. I am confident that Arup US and PAU will be excellent partners in helping us envision an aesthetic and safe post-plywood future for our sidewalk safety infrastructure,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “With open-source designs, this is the beginning of an exciting transformation for our streets. I look forward to it.”

“Pedestrian safety equipment plays a critical public safety role in our city, protecting New Yorkers from the potential hazards associated with active construction sites and neglected buildings that have been allowed to fall into disrepair,” said DOB Commissioner Jimmy Oddo. “While DOB is committed to reducing the number of sheds citywide, we recognize that we will never get that number down to zero. Once we bring these two design teams on board, we can get to work improving the design of sidewalk sheds, so that when they are necessary to be installed at any property, they are enhancing and not detracting from the neighborhood.”

“New York is a hub of urban design; there is no reason why something as ubiquitous as a sidewalk shed has to be an eyesore,” said Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu. “I have full confidence that Arup US and PAU are equipped to reimagine the sidewalk shed of the future in partnership with the DOB, as the Adams administration seeks legislative solutions with the City Council to ‘Get Sheds Down.’”

Since Mayor Adams launched the “Get Sheds Down” plan in July 2023, the city has removed hundreds of sidewalk sheds from New York City sidewalks. Additionally, since the plan was announced, the city has removed 82 long-standing sheds (sheds that have been up for over five years) from the streets, and also removed the longest-standing shed in the city, which had been an eyesore in Harlem for over 21 years.

To help advance these efforts, DOB has released technical guidance to help the industry understand rules and processes regarding the use of safety netting. The Adams administration is also currently working with the New York City Council on legislation to allow for a wider variety of colors for sidewalk sheds, 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.

Arup US and PAU were chosen after an extensive review of over a dozen applications that were submitted to the city through a public Request for Proposal process first launched in September 2023. A panel of senior DOB staff members carefully reviewed applications and selected firms with the most comprehensive plans to effectively deliver these new sidewalk shed designs for New Yorkers.

Arup US

Arup’s New York Office has been established in the city for over 30 years, specializing in engineering, architecture, planning, and advisory services. The company has worked with city and state government agencies on projects including the Fulton Center subway and retail complex, the Lincoln Center redevelopment, Hudson River Park, the Second Avenue Subway line, Little Island, and the American Museum of Natural History Gilder Center. Arup US also has previous experience designing alternative pedestrian safety designs in New York City, previously taking part in the city’s UrbanShed design competition in 2009.

Practice for Architecture & Urbanism

PAU is a minority- and women-owned business that has worked on multiple projects in New York City, including the Domino Sugar Refinery redevelopment, 77 Water Street Privately Owned Public Space, and the Sunnyside Yard Master Plan. PAU has worked extensively with local community groups and advocacy organizations on social advocacy projects, using design to imagine improvements for New Yorkers.

“Today marks an historic step forward in Mayor Adams’ ‘Get Sheds Down’ campaign, a transformative initiative to beautify our streets,” said New York State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar. “We are launching the process of reimagining shed design while ensuring that there is no compromise to our safety. Sheds will be unintrusive, aesthetically pleasing, and — best of all — short-lived. That translates to more sunlight and increased foot traffic to street-level businesses. It also means fewer spots for bad apples to congregate. This plan will reclaim our streets from the nearly 10,000 sidewalk sheds hiding the charm of our city.”

“I’ve made it a priority to make facade work faster, ensure sheds aren’t left languishing on our sidewalks, and make the ones we do need are less impactful on local neighborhoods and our streetscapes. The designs the selected companies produce will start a process to reimagine what sheds look like,” said Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine. “Congratulations to the Department of Buildings and the mayor on this launch. I’m looking forward to continuing to work with them and the Council to get shed reform done.”

“Just about every New Yorker agrees that there’s too much scaffolding across the city,” said New York City Councilmember Keith Powers. “It seems to stay up forever and, frankly, looks terrible. That’s why last year I introduced a legislative package to improve and modernize outdated regulations — and new design options are a key component of how we make that happen. I applaud Mayor Adams for prioritizing this issue and taking action on it.”

“Today’s announcement marks a turning point in providing a much-needed upgrade to the blight of current construction sheds, and making sidewalks safer and more pleasant for all New Yorkers,” said Carlo A. Scissura, president and CEO, New York Building Congress. “We look forward to seeing the transformative proposals, including from Building Congress member Arup, to revitalize our city’s vibrant sidewalk scene.”

“The Structural Engineers Association of New York looks forward to more options for sidewalk sheds and alternative solutions that provide pedestrian safety during construction activities, while complementing the architectural features of our beautiful city,” said Yunlu Shen, PE, SE, president, Structural Engineers Association of New York.

“AIANY applauds Mayor Adams, Department of Buildings Commissioner Oddo, and Mayor’s Office of Contract Serves Director Flores for taking another important step forward on the Get Sheds Down initiative,” said Jesse Lazar, executive director, American Institute of Architects New York. “We look forward to continuing to work with the city to reimagine and improve shed design in order to make our public realm a more vibrant and accessible place for New Yorkers, while also prioritizing safety and creating cost-effective design solutions.”

“We commend the Adams Administration for its efforts to redesign construction sheds to help improve quality of life and retail leasing opportunities,” said Zachary Steinberg, senior vice president of policy, REBNY. “We look forward to working with the administration and other stakeholders on this important issue.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES ACTIVATION OF CITY'S FIRST PUBLIC E-BIKE CHARGING SITE FOR DELIVERY WORKERS

First of Five Outdoor Charging Facilities Now Online at

Manhattan’s Cooper Square, With Others to be Installed in Coming Weeks

Pilot Will Allow Select Group of Delivery Workers to

Safely Charge Lithium-Ion Batteries Outside of Residences

Effort Part of Administration’s “Charge Safe, Ride Safe” Plan to Support Safe E-Bike Use, Prevent Deadly Lithium-Ion Battery Fires

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, and New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) President and CEO Andrew Kimball today activated the first of five public e-battery charging locations 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 first charging site is being located in Cooper Square in Manhattan’s East Village and is a key component of the administration’s overall “Charge Safe, Ride Safe: New York City’s Electric Micromobility Action Plan” to support safe e-bike use and prevent deadly lithium-ion battery fires. New York City is among the first major cities in the United States to launch a public e-bike charging pilot program.

“We count on delivery workers for so much, and they should be able to count on us, too — whether that means fighting for fair pay or making their jobs and livelihoods safer,” said Mayor Adams. “This pilot program we’re kicking off today will give delivery workers the ability to access safe, accessible, outdoor battery-charging that will undoubtedly save lives, and we’re eager to expand this pilot even further. We know the incredible potential of e-bikes in our city and it’s on us to make e-bike use even safer.”

“Delivery workers, their families, and their neighbors deserve to be safe from battery fires,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “Workers need on-street infrastructure for safe charging, and this pilot is an important step as we continue our work with the City Council to increase safety and worker protections in every aspect of the quickly-growing delivery market. Thank you to DOT, NYCEDC, DCWP and the Fire Department for making this possible.”

“E-bikes are critical tools for delivery workers to support our local economy. This pilot will offer convenient and safe charging options at public locations so that delivery workers do not have to charge their devices at home,” said DOT Commissioner Rodriguez. “We’re thrilled to launch this pilot and thank the mayor as well as our partners in labor for supporting this vision.”

“Safe and accessible charging helps our delivery workers do their day-to-day jobs and contribute to the city’s vibrant economy,” said NYCEDC President and CEO Kimball. “NYCEDC is thrilled to utilize our assets for this innovative program, including the Essex Market and Brooklyn Army Terminal — an emerging hub for climate innovation. We are excited to work with DOT on increasing pilot opportunities and look forward to seeing its positive impact at making sure delivery workers charge safe and ride safe.”

“We know that micro-mobility devices powered by lithium-ion batteries are already in people’s homes,” said Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) Commissioner Laura Kavanagh. “In fact, a majority of deadly e-bike fires happen in residences. They are used daily by delivery workers and others to work and commute. We are grateful to partner with the DOT to give delivery workers a safe place to charge their devices. Fires caused by lithium-ion batteries are extremely dangerous and deadly, and we must continue to work together to tackle this public safety threat head on.”

“At the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, we are committed to supporting and protecting the rights of our city’s delivery workers,” said New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection Commissioner Vilda Vera Mayuga. “Keeping New Yorkers safe from the dangers of uncertified lithium-ion batteries requires a coordinated, multiagency response, and we are proud of the work this administration has done to protect our city. Together, with our partners at the FDNY, we’ve worked to hold retailers accountable, issuing nearly 200 violations to businesses for selling uncertified devices and batteries. Thank you to the mayor and DOT for developing creative and safe charging options for our city’s delivery workers and e-bike users.”

Mayor Adams also today announced four other outdoor charging sites across Manhattan and Brooklyn, selected based on their high concentrations of e-bike delivery activity and delivery workers. Those locations — the Brooklyn Army Terminal in Sunset Park, Essex Market in the Lower East Side, Plaza De Las Americas in Washington Heights, and Willoughby and Jay Streets in Downtown Brooklyn — will have public e-battery charging locations installed and activated in the coming weeks.

DOT developed the pilot through the agency’s DOT Studio, a research and development partnership with NYCEDC and the urban tech growth hub Newlab. The announcement follows the release of the administration’s Green Economy Action Plan, a first-of-its-kind plan that outlines a roadmap to grow the city’s green economy — consisting of investments in jobs and sectors that will help the city combat climate change — and train and position New Yorkers, particularly those from environmentally-disadvantaged communities, to benefit from the nearly 400,000 projected ‘green-collar’ jobs in New York City by 2040.

Three companies — Swobbee, Popwheels, and Swiftmile — are providing charging infrastructure for the pilot. Swobbee and Popwheels are providing swappable battery systems, enabling participating e-bike users to swap a depleted, UL-certified e-bike battery for a fully-charged battery at designated outdoor battery cabinets. Swiftmile is providing a secure charging bike rack where participating e-bike users can lock up their bikes and charge while parked. The three technologies include fire safety features, ranging from automatic shutoff if a battery is overheating to fire suppression systems. The FDNY, a key partner in the pilot, reviewed product development and will also inspect each pilot location during installation and throughout the duration of the program.

Only participating delivery workers will be able to take part in the six-month pilot free of cost. In the coming days, DOT will sign as many as 100 delivery workers up to participate in the pilot program; during which the workers will provide continuous feedback about their experience with the charging technologies and hubs. Interested workers can fill out an Expression of Interest form or attend an onboarding event, including at Cooper Square on March 7, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM and at the Brooklyn Army Terminal on March 8, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

“This program is a critically important response to the devastating series of fires caused by e-bike batteries across the city in the past year, including one at 80 Madison Street in my district in June which killed four people,” said New York State Assemblymember Grace Lee. “For delivery workers trying to make ends meet, these batteries are a necessity, but without regulation, they are costing people their homes, businesses, and lives. I have had multiple meetings with the city to advocate for this program to provide safe, regulated batteries and charging stations, and I am glad to see it begin to be implemented. I thank the mayor, the DOT, and the NYCEDC for taking action to address this issue; I hope to work together to expand this program in the near future.”

“I’m so glad that DOT will be piloting several public e-bike charging stations, including in high-demand areas like Downtown Brooklyn,” said New York State Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon. “These stations will allow delivery drivers a safe place to charge their bikes, curbing the tragic fires that have taken place across the city due to faulty equipment. If we want to achieve the city’s goal of keeping New Yorkers safe and reducing emissions to protect our planet, providing more green infrastructure like charging stations is imperative. Thanks to the mayor and DOT for this critical initiative.”

“As New Yorkers embrace more sustainable modes of travel, investments in public charging infrastructure are critical,” said New York City Councilmember Carlina Rivera. “I appreciate this administration’s work with our community to establish one of the city’s first public e-battery charging hubs for delivery workers. This pilot program is an important part of safely integrating electric mobility devices into our communities.”

“As New Yorkers, we feel and live the effects of the battery-fire crisis every day, and we’re thrilled to provide a scalable, easy-to-use, cost-effective solution to put this problem to rest,” said David Hammer, co-founder, PopWheels. “We’re grateful to Mayor Adams and his deputies and commissioners for their leadership, the FDNY for their bravery, and the teams at DOT and Newlab in the Brooklyn Navy Yard for helping us launch in New York City.”

“Transportation options are essential in such a vibrant and busy city like New York,” said Colin Roche, chief executive officer, Swiftmile. “We’re excited to partner with DOT and Newlab to showcase our U.S.-made e-bike charging stations. These stations will help some of the city’s 65,000 delivery workers safely charge their vehicles without worrying about the battery fire hazards that have been affecting New Yorkers. A crucial component of our charging technology is designed to identify overheating in e-bike batteries and automatically shut down if it detects an issue. We hope the outcome of the pilot will lead to much safer charging solutions for delivery workers and peace of mind to New Yorkers.”

“We are extremely excited about this opportunity to contribute to New York’s mobility transition and to offer delivery drivers a reliable charging solution. Our swapping stations were specifically designed to tackle challenges like this,” said Stephan von Wolff, managing director, Swobbee US. “To ensure maximum safety for the delivery workers, we’re introducing the safest battery technology around. This lithium ferrophosphate technology outperforms any conventional lithium-ion alternative — and with a lower total cost of ownership. We’re convinced that this accessible and safe pilot can serve as a blueprint for the city’s approach to fire safety moving forward.”

“It is critical that our streets have safe and sustainable infrastructure to support e-bikes and to keep their hardworking riders moving,” said Regina Myer, president, Downtown Brooklyn Partnership. “As a bustling neighborhood with businesses, residents and workers depending on delivery services, downtown Brooklyn is a prime location to pilot the e-bike battery charging program. We are proud to join the city’s efforts in transforming electric-micromobility usage and making our communities safer for all.”

“Coordinating a safe and unified approach to e-battery charging is essential to supporting small businesses throughout the five boroughs who rely on deliveries,” said Tim Laughlin, president, Lower East Side Partnership. “We are excited about the promise this pilot has to not only support commerce but also to provide a safe battery charging option for delivery workers utilizing e-bikes.”

“New York City’s delivery workers need safe, secure places to charge e-bike batteries,” said Elizabeth Adams, deputy executive director for public affairs, Transportation Alternatives. “We’ve long called for easily-accessible, public charging options citywide to encourage the safe growth of e-micromobility, like e-bikes and e-scooters, and we’re glad to see Mayor Adams and Commissioner Rodriguez announce the historic creation of New York City’s first public charging locations. This, along with the expansion of protected bike infrastructure and secure bike parking, is vital to creating safe working conditions for New York City’s 65,000 delivery workers and improving bike access overall.”

“We’re excited about the launch of the city’s first e-battery charging hub that will provide our delivery workers with places for safe charging,” said Ken Podziba, CEO, Bike New York. “Many of the risks associated with dangerous lithium-ion batteries are preventable and offering these public charging stations, with hopefully many more to come, is a big and innovative step in the right direction. We’d like to thank Mayor Adams, Commissioner Rodriguez, and EDC President Kimball for their leadership in helping to combat the crisis of deadly fires associated with faulty lithium-ion batteries by offering real solutions for our hard-working commercial cyclists.”

“New York needs this kind of easy access to e-bike charging – it keeps our essential delivery workers moving and provides the kind of supporting infrastructure that is crucial for the future,” said Sara Lind, co-executive director, Open Plans. “With strategic planning like this, we can adapt public space in smart and efficient ways, supporting the growing e-micromobility movement. The whole city wins when deliveristas can conveniently ditch gas-powered vehicles for electric devices that are more accessible, less dangerous, and better for our climate.”

“Los Deliveristas Unidos supports this initiative led and implemented by the Department of Transportation,” said Alejandro Grajales, representative, Los Deliveristas Unidos. “Building e-bike micro mobility infrastructure like e-bike charging has been a priority for Los Deliveristas Unidos. This type of infrastructure is critical to enhancing safety for not just the delivery workforce but the entire community at large.”

“Our group has been waiting for this great project to begin that will provide charging stations for e-bike batteries,” said Sergio Solano, representative, New York City Food Delivery Movement. “We thank the DOT for giving us the opportunity to be involved in this pilot program and thank the city of New York for considering us as essential workers.”

MAYOR ADAMS FIGHTS FOR LEGAL CANNABIS INDUSTRY BY CELEBRATING OPENING OF FIRST BLACK WOMAN-OWNED LEGAL DISPENSARY IN BROOKLYN, RECOMMITS TO CLOSING DOWN ILLEGAL SMOKE SHOPS

Announcement Follows Continued Actions Taken by Adams Administration to Hold Unlicensed Operators Accountable for Hurting Local Businesses and Endangering Neighborhoods

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today celebrated the opening of Matawana Dispensary, the first Black woman-owned legal cannabis dispensary in Brooklyn. Building on an announcement in his State of the City address last month, Mayor Adams recommitted to supporting the equitable growth of the legal cannabis market and ensuring justice-impacted individuals are not undermined through an illegal market by working with Albany to grant local authorities the power to inspect and shutdown illegal smoke shops.

“For too long, Black and Brown communities have faced high rates of drug-related incarceration and have been denied opportunities to build wealth. As we close out Black History Month, New York City is taking steps to right the wrongs of the past by supporting equitable growth in the legal cannabis industry,” said Mayor Adams. “But it’s not enough to support the opening of new legal cannabis shops — we must also close down the illegal operators that threaten the success of legal shops and put the safety of our communities at risk. We have been clear in our call to state lawmakers to give us the power to shut down illegal smoke shops, and we will continue to work with Governor Hochul and all our partners in Albany who are fighting to give us this authority.”

“I am encouraged to see the quickening pace of legal retail dispensary openings in the city and thank our colleagues at Cannabis NYC and the Office of Cannabis Management for all that they are doing to support the growth of the local market,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “To fulfill our promise to trailblazers like Leeann and to the communities most impacted by drug-related criminalization policies of the past, we have to pursue two priorities in tandem — developing services and supports for cannabis entrepreneurs and businesses while working with the state to close down illegal operators.”

“As a Brooklyn native who left New York due to denied access to medical cannabis, this is a full-circle moment,” said Cannabis NYC Founding Director Dasheeda Dawson. “Not only do I have the honor of leading the city’s efforts in developing an equitable, sustainable legal cannabis industry, but we are bearing witness to history with the first Black, woman-owned cannabis dispensary opening in my home borough. This opening reflects the Adams administration’s commitment to building economic opportunity in communities most impacted by prohibition-era policies, transitioning legacy to legal, and becoming the ‘City of Yes’ for the multibillion-dollar global cannabis industry.”

“The Sheriff’s Office will continue to work with our partner agencies at the direction of Mayor Adams to conduct inspections of unlicensed smoke shops so the legal market can thrive,” said New York City Sheriff Anthony Miranda. “The New York City Sheriff’s Office Joint Compliance Task Force to Address Illegal Smoke Shops has seized over $29 million in illicit products that were being sold in illegal shops in close reach of our children and houses of worship, and found 92 percent of the locations inspected to be in violation of the law. As we protect our children and families from these unregulated products, we encourage those that do participate in this market to shop at a licensed location where the products are regulated and safe.”

“I’m proud of Matawana Dispensary, not just as an emerging small business, but as a symbol of equity in New York City’s legal cannabis industry,” said New York City Department of Small Businesses Commissioner Kevin D. Kim. “Businesses like this propel New York City as the global capital for legal cannabis and boost our city’s overall economic resilience.”

“Draconian prohibition laws cost my family almost everything, but the plant itself is a healing herb,” said Matawana Dispensary Founder Leeann Mata. “When it became legal, I used it to treat my anxiety and created formulations that helped my mother with pain and helped her conquer an opioid addiction. I have been able to support elders with homemade CBD creams.”

The legalization of cannabis has allowed 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. Leeann Mata, owner of Matawana Dispensary, is an East New York native who previously taught at a New York City Department of Education public school. A first-generation New Yorker with family originally from Trinidad, Mata and her family members were justice-impacted through the previous criminalization of cannabis, but now are part of a new legal, cannabis economy. However, for New York City’s new cannabis economy and businesses like Mata’s to thrive, the city and state need to protect the legal market from illegal actors. The Adams administration is working with Albany to secure the authority for local municipalities to have explicit control over cannabis enforcement to finally end this public health and safety issue.

New York City is using every tool available to protect young people from dangerous, illegal cannabis and tobacco products, while sending a clear message that anyone helping these illegal, unlicensed shops to spread throughout the five boroughs will be held accountable. Coordinating with both city and state authorities, the Adams administration formed the New York City Sheriff’s Office Joint Compliance Task Force to Address Illegal Smoke Shops. This task force is dedicated to conducting enforcement against unlicensed establishments selling cannabis, cannabis-infused edibles, illegal vaping products, illegal cigarettes, and other illegal tobacco products. Since forming, the task force has imposed almost $90 million in penalties — including an estimated $29 million in illegal products seized and over $61 million in civil penalties issued. Since the start of the Adams administration, the city has closed 160 illegal businesses, conducted over 46,000 inspections, collected over $18 million in fines, and issued 17,000 summonses.

Additionally, the city has sent letters to over 408 landlords and owners of buildings across the five boroughs warning that they could be legally liable for the continued unlicensed sale of cannabis or tobacco products by their tenants, resulting in 15 evictions. Last year, the city also filed a federal lawsuit against four major distributors of flavored disposable e-cigarettes for unlawfully distributing exotically flavored disposable e-cigarettes to retail vape and smoke shops, convenience stores, and directly to consumers in New York City through online sales. Two distributors have agreed to stop selling e-cigarettes in New York City while the remaining two are facing a preliminary injunction from the New York City Department of Law.

“I’m proud to see Brooklyn’s first Black woman-owned dispensary open in the heart of my district,” said U.S. Representative Dan Goldman. “With the opening of Matawana, Leeann Mata is making history. Her advocacy to improve the criminal justice system and example of restorative justice are truly admirable. As more licensed dispensaries open their doors, I look forward to more community advocates like Leann becoming small business owners.”

“Congratulations to Leeann Mata on the opening of her new small business. I am a champion for small businesses and M/WBEs, and I am especially proud that this is the first Black woman-owned business of its kind,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Matawana will provide economic empowerment to those disproportionately affected by Draconian drug laws and generate tax revenue that will be invested in communities historically targeted for enforcement, including Ms. Mata’s home of East New York. In Albany, I will support her by passing my SMOKEOUT Act, which will shutter all the unlicensed shops that unfairly compete with legal dispensaries like hers.”

MAYOR ADAMS UNVEILS AMBITIOUS PLAN TO MAKE NEW YORK CITY LEADER IN ‘GREEN-COLLAR’ JOBS

State of the City Commitment Will Grow City’s Green Economy, Train and Position New Yorkers to Benefit from Nearly 400,000 Green-Collar Jobs by 2040

Plan Will Advance $100 Million Climate Innovation Hub at Brooklyn Army Terminal, Create More Than 12,000 Green Economy Apprenticeships by 2040

Climate Collaborative Across Brooklyn Army Terminal, Governors Island, Brooklyn Navy Yard to Deliver 6-Million-Square-Feet for Climate Education, Research, Commercialization, and Training

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) President and CEO Andrew Kimball, and Mayor’s Office of Talent and Workforce Development (NYCTalent) Executive Director Abby Jo Sigal today announced the release of the Green Economy Action Plan — a first-of-its-kind plan that lays out a roadmap to growing the city’s green economy. The plan invests in jobs and sectors that will help the city combat climate change, and train and position New Yorkers — particularly those from environmentally-disadvantaged communities — to benefit from the nearly 400,000 projected ‘green-collar’ jobs in New York City by 2040.

Critical to this plan is the creation of a new “Climate Innovation Hub” at the Brooklyn Army Terminal, which will help grow green technology startups and businesses, and which will be joined together with the Trust for Governors Island and the Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corporation to create a green economy ecosystem across three campuses that will support 5,000 new permanent jobs, educate and train 2,100 New Yorkers, and generate $55 billion of economic impact. The Green Economy Action Plan delivers on another promise in Mayor Adams’ State of the City address, and builds on his commitment to invest in future-focused industries and create a “Harbor of the Future” with job and innovation hubs along the East River.

“Our city didn’t recover the nearly 1 million jobs we lost during the pandemic and reach a new private-sector job high by looking backward — we did it by building an economy of the future. And we must draw on all our resources to protect our city from the effects of climate change,” said Mayor Adams. “From building resiliency projects and retrofitting apartment buildings, to installing solar panels, EV charging stations, and wind turbines, ‘green-collar’ jobs are already in demand and leading the way. Our Green Economy Action Plan will harness the growth of a new kind of industrial revolution and give New Yorkers the tools they need to build a resilient and prosperous city and thrive in our future-focused economy.”

The Green Economy Action Plan delivers the first forecasting of New York City’s green economy and job growth through 2040. New York City’s green economy will host nearly 400,000 jobs by 2040 — up from 133,000 today — as it becomes the anchor of a prosperous, equitable, and just future for New Yorkers, while it simultaneously advances the city’s ambitious goals to reduce the city’s threats due to climate change. The plan identifies key occupations that are essential to growing the green economy and highlights 21 occupations that provide pathways to economic mobility, many of which do not require higher education degrees.

Highlights of the plan include:

Establishing a Climate Innovation Hub: NYCEDC will invest up to $100 million to develop a Climate Innovation Hub at the Brooklyn Army Terminal. 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.
Creating Green Training Facilities in Every Borough: NYCTalent — in partnership with other city agencies, as well as private partners — will develop a workforce training facility in every borough with programming to train New Yorkers for green-collar jobs. The plan will deliver more than 12,000 green economy apprenticeships by 2040 through efforts such as a green building and construction workforce pilot program on Governors Island to train more than 100 people per year for the first two years.
Activating a Harbor Climate Collaborative: The Brooklyn Navy Yard, NYCEDC, and the Trust for Governors Island are collectively investing $725 million to build a green economy ecosystem across 6-million-square-feet and 72 acres linked by NYC Ferry across New York Harbor. The collaborative will catalyze climate education, research, innovation, commercialization, and workforce development alongside partners from the private and nonprofit sectors. This work will build on a strong foundation of green economy projects such as the 400,000-square-foot New York Climate Exchange, an academic and research consortium anchored by Stony Brook University on Governors Island, and the development of 5-million-square-feet of net-zero manufacturing space at the Brooklyn Navy Yard.
Activating Public Sites for Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging: NYCEDC is activating two acres of land near JFK airport to create the largest EV charging facility in the city, with 65 public EV chargers including 12 rapid ones. The facility is currently estimated to charge 1,000 vehicles per year, with potential for growth depending on market demand. The Brooklyn Navy Yard is also installing over 80 EV chargers across its 300-acre campus, including infrastructure for commercial fleet charging and a dedicated public lot for neighboring residents. Together, these investments constitute some of the largest investments in EV infrastructure in outer borough job centers in New York City to date.
Creating Tax Incentives for Battery Storage: NYCEDC will utilize New York City’s Industrial Development Agency tax incentives to activate 500 Megawatts (MW) of battery storage capacity and support other green economy uses. To date, the Industrial Development Agency has induced 200MW of storage capacity that is expected to come online in the coming years and generated nearly $500 million of private sector investment. Unlocking additional storage capacity will ultimately drive a stronger and more efficient renewable energy sector.

“The Green Economy Action Plan is an integrated talent and economic development strategy for the five boroughs and another example of the Adams administration’s work connecting New Yorkers to family-sustaining jobs, spurring inclusive economic activity in high-growth sectors and marshaling a coordinated, citywide response to climate change,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic, and Workforce Development Maria Torres-Springer. “I am excited to be a part of this historic release and eager to join with New Yorkers, my colleagues in government, and partners in the private sector to create the world’s most dynamic and equitable green ecosystem right here in New York.”

“Treating the climate change crisis with the urgency it requires doesn’t just support our infrastructure but our economy too, with good, ‘green-collar’ jobs for New Yorkers with diverse educations and histories,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “As unusual weather events become all too usual, we all have a role to play in protecting our city. Our city is creating the framework so that everyone can get involved.”

“This first-of-its-kind plan lays out a series of commitments and strategies that will bolster economic growth, create thousands of jobs, encourage public-private partnerships, and ensure a just transition to a green economy that all New Yorkers can contribute to and benefit from,” said NYCEDC President & CEO Kimball. “There is no better location for innovation than at the historic Brooklyn Army Terminal, located on the waterfront in the heart of Sunset Park, which is turning into a center for clean tech innovation and manufacturing. Climate tech growth at the Brooklyn Army Terminal will be further catalyzed by the establishment of the Climate Innovation Hub and through a unique partnership with the Brooklyn Navy Yard and the Trust for Governors Island, known as the Harbor Climate Collaborative. Collectively, these three remarkable city assets, all connected by a short NYC Ferry ride, will be at the forefront of climate innovation, commercialization, and workforce development for decades to come.”

“By co-authoring the Green Economy Action Plan, we wrote the roadmap for an historic opportunity to tackle the climate crisis, create jobs, and drive economic mobility, while positioning New York City as a global leader in the green economy,” said NYCTalent Executive Director Sigal. “The plan represents the city’s commitment to concrete strategies to ensure that all New Yorkers contribute to and benefit from our city’s growth and prosperity.”

“The Brooklyn Navy Yard is proud to be an integral partner in making New York a global destination for climate adaptation and technology development and production, and to further build on the growing community of climate solutions companies already thriving at the Yard,” said Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corporation President and CEO Lindsay Greene. “New York City is uniquely positioned to take on this challenge, and through strategic investments in promising climate tech, we can benefit from the silver lining that is a flourishing green economy that propels New Yorkers into sustainable career paths.”

“Preparing our city for climate change will require transformative collaboration and opportunities to rapidly scale solutions that benefit all New Yorkers, and the Green Economy Action Plan outlines a necessary roadmap,” said Trust for Governors Island President and CEO Clare Newman. “Governors Island is an exciting platform for a growing ecosystem of partners, including the New York Climate Exchange, that are advancing research, education, training, and public programs, and we’re proud to join our colleagues in furthering New York City ‘s role as a global leader in developing equitable solutions to climate change.”

“Reducing our contributions to climate change and building the infrastructure that will make us more resilient to extreme weather represents an historic opportunity to grow and broaden our economy and workforce,” said New York City Chief Climate Officer and New York City Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala. “As laid out in ‘PlaNYC,’ with the proper planning and guidance, we can help ensure that all New Yorkers are able to benefit from this once-in-a-generation opportunity.”

“As New York City makes historic investments in climate, it’s imperative that we bring everyone along,” said Mayor’s Office of Climate & Environmental Justice Executive Director Elijah Hutchinson. “Environmental justice and workforce champions know that we now have to do the hard work of making these job opportunities real for everyday New Yorkers. In tandem with apprenticeships, workforce training, local job placement, and the contribution of crucial environmental-justice advocacy groups like UPROSE, Green City Force, and the HOPE Program, this action plan advances a more just climate transition for New Yorkers.”

Through a Request for Proposal to be released on March 18, 2024, NYCEDC will seek an operator for its new Climate Innovation Hub at the Brooklyn Army Terminal. Potential partners can learn more about the vision for the hub and complete a partner form to register interest.

Climate technology companies are a particularly bright spot within New York City’s green business landscape. As of 2022, the New York City metropolitan area is the third largest climate tech ecosystem in the country with 179 active climate tech companies and venture capital investments, reaching almost $4 billion in 2021. This opportunity is turbocharged by over $2 billion in venture capital funding flowing to New York City’s climate tech sector since 2021, a 400 percent spike over the $500 million in investment from 2018 to 2020; ambitious city and state climate policy targets; and over $500 billion in public funding being made available at the state and federal levels to support the nation’s shift to a green economy.

The Green Economy Action Plan deliver on a key commitment in Mayor Adams’ “PlaNYC: Getting Sustainability Done” plan, New York’s long-term strategic climate plan. The Green Economy Action Plan also builds on decades-long work led by advocacy environmental groups, including UPROSE, whose Green Resilient Industrial District (GRID) Plan and ‘The GRID 2.0” provide a comprehensive, community-led path to decarbonize Sunset Park and ensure a just transition towards a greener and cleaner future.

“The Green Economy Action Plan demonstrates our administration’s commitment to ensuring that all New Yorkers can contribute to and benefit from a resilient and strong New York City,” said Mayor’s Office of Food Policy Executive Director Kate MacKenzie. “We are proud to be part of a city investing in climate-resilient systems and solutions, including sustainable food distribution, production, consumption, and disposal. The plan lays out how we can continue to engage the private sector in meeting our ambitious climate goals through the city’s Plant-Powered Carbon Challenge, work towards decarbonization of food distribution, and support sustainable food businesses and practices.”

“The Green Economy Action Plan is truly a win-win for New Yorkers,” said New York City Department of City Planning Director Dan Garodnick. “By creating good-paying green industry jobs and bolstering energy-efficient tech throughout the five boroughs, we’re keeping our city on the cutting edge of innovation and a more sustainable path. Thanks to policies like this and ‘City of Yes for Carbon Neutrality,’ we’re well on our way to a greener, healthier, more prosperous future.”

“Realizing a more sustainable and equitable transportation future entails dedicated investments in environmentally friendly initiatives and infrastructure throughout all five boroughs,” said New York City Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “DOT is proud to contribute to the Green Economy Action Plan, including through our green freight, electric vehicle charging, and shared mobility programming, which foster green job opportunities for New Yorkers and propel the city towards achieving ambitious climate action goals.”

“Today marks a pivotal moment in our city’s commitment toward building a more sustainable future for all New Yorkers. With the unveiling of the Green Economy Action Plan, we are not only making strides toward combating the impacts of climate change, but we are also laying the foundation for equitable economic growth,” said New York City’s Department of Buildings Commissioner Jimmy Oddo. “The Climate Innovation Hub at the Brooklyn Army Terminal, in particular, will help foster green technology startups, which are going to be critical as larger property owners work to reduce carbon emissions from their buildings.”

“Through the Green Economy Action Plan, we’re doubling down on our commitment to environmental justice and equitable workforce development, as we simultaneously embrace the challenge of climate change,” said New York City Department of Citywide Administration Commissioner Dawn M. Pinnock. “We are thrilled to be part of this important effort as we work together to make sure everyone gets a fair shot at a better, greener future.”

“New York City is and must continue to be a global leader in the fight against climate change. With the city’s Green Economy Action Plan as our guide, we now have a clear roadmap to build a resilient, green economy in preparing for the economic and environmental realities of what’s to come,” said Dr. Stephen Hammer, CEO, New York Climate Exchange. “The Exchange and our partners are thrilled to be part of this endeavor. We look forward to working with City Hall, entrepreneurs, community organizations, and the financial sector to identify and promote jobs for both low- and high-skilled workers that help the city meet its climate adaptation and mitigation goals.”

In April 2023, the Adams administration, Governors Island, and the State University of New York Stony Brook University 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. The Exchange will establish a cross-sector consortium of over 45 partner organizations, representing leading universities, businesses, and non-profit organizations, and will develop 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 equip New Yorkers for green-collar jobs of the future.

Sunset Park in South Brooklyn continues to be an emerging hub for climate innovation. In March 2022, Mayor Adams announced an agreement to transform the city owned South Brooklyn Marine Terminal (SBMT) into one of the largest offshore wind port facilities in the nation. The world-class offshore wind hub at South Brooklyn Marine Terminal is projected to support the buildout, management, and interconnection of electricity generation for more than 2 million homes. Last September, NYCEDC launched Pilots at the Brooklyn Army Terminal, a climate innovation pilot program allowing companies to test and scale their technologies in live environments.

“The future of New York’s economy and of American jobs is in green infrastructure,” said U.S. Representative Dan Goldman. “I’m thrilled to see our city preparing for and embracing this green energy future by investing in jobs that will help our city combat climate change and mitigate future extreme weather events. While we must ensure that community voices are front and center while this plan is implemented, this critically important investment and training will ensure that our economy is competitive and prepared for years to come.”

“The historic Green Economy Action Plan is the roadmap to an economy laser-focused on sustainability, resilience, and financial empowerment. This first-of-its-kind plan utilizes a $100 million investment in the ‘Climate Innovation Hub’ at Brooklyn Army Terminal to create thousands of jobs and apprenticeships in fields that tackle climate change head-on,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “It will supercharge our economy, producing 400,000 green collar jobs and generating an economic impact of $55 billion. It puts us on the path to New York City becoming the leader in green collar jobs and the green economy of the future.”

“We must do everything in our power to reverse the impact of climate change on our planet. The time for half measures is over,” said New York State Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon. “I’m encouraged to see that New York City is taking bold action to grow the city’s green economy and invest in green jobs, especially at centers of innovation like the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Thanks to Mayor Adams for his commitment to protecting our planet for future generations.”

“As New York City’s green economy grows, it is critically important to develop a highly skilled workforce and create pipelines to family-sustaining union careers for all New Yorkers interested in entering the industry,” said Gary LaBarbera, president, Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York (BCTC). “The Green Economy Action Plan highlights union apprenticeship programs that commit to building a sustainable workforce that will meet labor demands and propel us towards our clean energy goals. BCTC is looking forward to working alongside New York City leadership to increase these opportunities, provide economic mobility and ensure that New Yorkers are meaningfully included high-quality, green collar union jobs.”

“Green City Force (GCF) is excited to participate in the announcement of the Green Economy Action Plan. This investment is a significant move towards a #futuregreencity rooted in environmental, economic, and social justice,” said Tonya Gayle, executive director, Green City Force. “This plan fully aligns with GCF’s priorities: tapping and supporting the inspired potential of young leaders to power and lead a green and inclusive economy through service in sustainability.”

“With more than 40 years of dedicated service to the Brooklyn community, Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow has been at the forefront of cultivating a skilled and diverse workforce through its employment and educational services,” said Evelyn Ortiz and Greg Rideout, co-chief executive officers, Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow. “We are thrilled to collaborate with the mayoral administration and the New York City Economic Development Corporation on their Green Economy Action Plan to address the anticipated four-fold increase in green economy jobs over the next 15 years, with a strong focus on community hiring. This commitment reinforces our shared dedication to sustainable economic growth and equity, while also addressing the city’s challenges related to climate change.”

“The Green Economy Action Plan demonstrates New York City’s continued commitment to be a national leader of the Green Jobs sector at a scale that will both meet the growing climate crisis and bring economic empowerment in a sector that is steadily growing by over 8% per year,” said Tracey Capers, executive director, The HOPE Program. “The HOPE Program, which provides Green Job career training and links to employment in communities most affected by environmental racism, applauds the expertise and opportunities that this plan will bring. Every New Yorker will benefit from this investment that will allow our city to be greener, healthier, and energy efficient for long-term sustainability.”

“Plumbing in general, and specifically the production and delivery of domestic hot water for bathing, washing, cooking, and a variety of other uses, is of paramount importance to the safety and comfort of the residents of the City of New York,” said Paul O’Connor, business manager, Plumbers Local Union No. 1 of New York City. “A huge part of the energy consumed in any building is tied directly to domestic hot water supply. As new green technologies are deployed to sustainably continue to provide domestic hot water for our community, this critical work must also create and maintain high quality jobs for New Yorkers. We must plan for a safe and livable New York of the future through a just green transition.”

“FABSCRAP is just one of so many incredible organizations and startups addressing climate change in New York City. I’m very proud to have our work featured in the Green Economy Action Plan. It’s encouraging to see that the City’s planned investment in a more sustainable future includes the creation of equitable jobs, accessible spaces, and networks of support for the most needed innovations,” said FABSCRAP founder & CEO Jessica Schreiber.

“In unveiling his Green Economy Action Plan for NYC, Mayor Adams has taken a bold step towards a sustainable future. The “Climate Innovation Hub” underscores the city’s commitment to environmental stewardship and its dedication to training and expanding the green-collar workforce in New York City,” said Meredith Beckford-Smart, Ph.D., executive director, Genspace NYC. “By investing in future-focused industries and empowering our workforce with the skills for tomorrow’s jobs, Mayor Adams is not just building a greener economy; he is cultivating a more equitable and prosperous future for all New Yorkers.”

“itselectric’s mission is to rapidly scale charging infrastructure needed for the electric vehicle transition in every city and on every block; meeting the needs of private, fleet, and rideshare drivers,” said Tiya Gordon, co-founder and chief operating officer, itselectric. “Our partnership with NYCEDC has become a model for the city to pilot new and innovative technologies with private companies; enabling the collective approach required to achieve New York City’s ambitious climate goals with the crucial principles of speed and scale.”

“The Green Action Economy Plan makes clear that building decarbonization not only cuts emissions but also creates opportunities for green job growth,” said John Mandyck, CEO, Urban Green Council. “Investing in workforce training is key to hitting our city’s carbon reduction targets, and we look forward to leveraging Urban Green’s training expertise to help meet the city’s climate goals.”

“The Division of Workforce Development and Continuing Education at Kingsborough Community College (KCC), CUNY, commends and wholeheartedly supports the Green Economy Action Plan for its efforts in establishing infrastructure and programs aimed at equipping New York communities with the necessary training to cultivate the next generation of clean energy professionals,” said Christine Zagari-LoPorto, associate dean, KCC Division of Workforce Development and Continuing Education. “The allocation towards the Climate Innovation Hub will support the establishment of an educational center and assist in identifying talent from historically underrepresented communities, ensuring that all New Yorkers can access these benefits, mirroring our efforts at KCC within the Maritime industry and Offshore Wind. We eagerly anticipate its transformation into a cornerstone for training, employment, and innovation.”

“Mayor Adams and his administration has championed a green economy since he took office two years ago. Today’s announcement is an important and necessary investment in building Brooklyn’s economic development,” said Randy Peers, president and CEO, Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce. “The new “Climate Innovative Hub” will not only bring new jobs to Brooklyn, but it will provide necessary skills and education to historically marginalized communities. This is a big win for the future of Brooklyn and all of New York City.”

“With the support of Mayor Adams and NYCEDC, the members of Local Union No. 3, IBEW look forward to continuing and strengthening our role in the growing green economy in New York City in support of the “Green Economy Action Plan”, working on the transition necessary to address the climate crisis,” said Christopher Erikson, business manager, Local Union No. 3, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. “In alignment with the Mayor and EDC, we believe these green jobs of the future should be union jobs with family-sustaining wages and benefits, and as the work opportunity expands, we look to welcome more apprentices supported by this plan into our ranks, making New York City a better place to live and work.”

“The green economy has the potential to be a major new engine of middle-class job growth in New York City, so it’s great to see this comprehensive plan to help the city take full advantage of this opportunity and ensure that a large share of the new jobs go to New Yorkers from environmentally-disadvantaged communities,” said Jonathan Bowles, executive director, Center for an Urban Future. “Mayor Adams, NYCEDC, and NYCTalent deserve a lot of credit for getting ahead of this emerging part of the city’s economy and building career pipelines for New Yorkers from low-income backgrounds into the well-paying green jobs that will be created.”

“The release of the Green Economy Action Plan marks a significant milestone in advancing New York City’s commitment to combat climate change and foster economic growth,” said Jelena Kovačević, dean, NYU Tandon School of Engineering. “I’m excited about the plan’s focus on sustainability, climate tech startups, and the creation of a collaborative ecosystem, which aligns with our Sustainable Engineering Initiative mission and positions the city as a hub for green innovation, education, and job creation.”

“Matching New York’s ground-breaking leadership in climate action legislation will require an equally innovative initiative to train and up-skill our workforce,” said Richard C. Yancey, FAIA, LEED AP, executive director, Building Energy Exchange. “The Green Economy Action Plan is critical to unlocking New York’s talent and innovation, delivering on the promise of a green collar workforce, while creating thousands of jobs to reduce the threat of climate change.”

“The Green Economy Action Plan represents the future of a resilient, sustainable, and equitable New York. At Streetlife, we are thrilled to be a part of this story and excited to work with the city’s test bed network to help early-stage startups bring their urban climate solutions to life,” said Sonam Velani, co-founder and managing partner, Streetlife Ventures.

“NineDot Energy is excited to support Mayor Adams’ Green Economy Plan” said Adam Cohen, co-founder and chief technology officer, NineDot. “Our company was created to improve access to cleaner energy, enable a more stable grid, and bring environmental justice results to impacted city neighborhoods. We look forward to partnering with NYCEDC and sister agencies to advance our battery storage and other clean energy projects, all while increasing jobs and supporting green economy workforce initiatives for underserved New Yorkers. As a business started and headquartered in Brooklyn, with a growing employee base centered in the city, we applaud all the mayor’s efforts to make New York cleaner and greener, from this plan, to the City of Yes for Carbon Neutrality, to the Zero Emissions Vehicle mandate, and more.”

“Our climate future is dependent on developing a clean energy economy that works for everyone, regardless of their zip-code, skin color, or socioeconomic status,” said Alia Soomro, deputy director for NYC policy, New York League of Conservation Voters. “As new ways of building are implemented, new technologies come online, and cleaner modes of transportation grow to scale, there is a huge opportunity to center our workforce pipeline around communities who have suffered the most from decades of short-sighted environmental policies, and that is exactly what Mayor Adams’ Green Economy Action Plan will do.”

“Equinor applauds Mayor Adams and the New York City Economic Development Corporation on their Green Economy Action Plan and the significant investments they are making to New York City’s green economy,” said Molly Morris, president, Equinor Renewables Americas. “New York City is paving the way in climate leadership and the pursuit of environmental justice for disadvantaged communities. In support of this, we are proud to be a partner with New York City on the revitalization of the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal.”

“The Green Economy Network and JobsFirstNYCapplaud New York City Mayor Eric Adams, NYCEDC, and NYCTalent for unveiling the Green Economy Action Plan, a visionary roadmap for the city’s sustainable future. Most notably, the mayor’s plan centers equity, employment, and economic growth, and we are committed to collaborating with the administration and citywide partners to ensure the success of this plan,” said Keri Faulhaber, vice president, JobsFirstNYC. “Together, we can pave the way for a resilient and inclusive green economy, creating opportunities for New Yorkers, especially those in environmentally-disadvantaged communities, to thrive in the nearly 400,000 green collar jobs projected by 2040.”

“The Green Economy Action Plan is a groundbreaking initiative that will propel New York City to the forefront of the global green economy and ensure a more sustainable future for all New Yorkers,” said Carlo A. Scissura, Esq., president and CEO, New York Building Congress. “By committing to the creation of nearly 400,000 green collar jobs by 2040 and a $100 million Climate Innovation Hub, we are not just investing in the environment, we are investing in our people and our collective future.”

RECOGNIZING ADAMS ADMINISTRATION’S SUCCESSFUL FISCAL MANAGEMENT, LEADING INDEPENDENT, CREDIT RATING AGENCIES AFFIRM NEW YORK CITY’S STRONG FINANCIAL STANDING

Four Internationally-Recognized, Independent Credit Rating Agencies —

Moody’s, S&P, Fitch, and Kroll —All Applaud City’s Strong Fiscal Management

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 Investors Service, S&P Global Ratings, Fitch Ratings, and Kroll Bond Rating Agency (KBRA). 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.

“Moody’s, S&P, Fitch, and KBRA are all saying the same thing: this administration is making the right financial decisions today to ensure a better and stronger tomorrow for all New Yorkers,” said Mayor Adams. “Thanks to our proactive fiscal management, reductions in asylum seeker spending, and better-than-expected economic recovery, we have confronted our financial challenges and shown the world that New York City is back and open for business. While we must continue to responsibly manage our budget — and still need additional support from our partners at the state and federal level — today’s news is reason to take pride in our early decisions and make us cautiously optimistic about our financial future.”

Moody’s Investor Services was the first to reaffirm their assessment of the city’s bond rating last week, citing that their decision “reflects successful implementation of budget measures to help close budget gaps in the current and succeeding fiscal year primarily caused by the migrant crisis.” The reaffirmation also cites that the city’s “stable outlook reflects continuing economic expansion and tax revenue growth, coupled with robust financial management, which is anticipated to help mitigate budget pressures from the migrant crisis and the end of pandemic era federal aid.”

In its ratings report, S&P wrote “The stable outlook reflects our view of New York City’s relatively resilient economy, including its full recovery of jobs lost during the pandemic. In addition, the city benefits from a global presence and diversified employment in technology, health care, financial services, and arts and entertainment. We believe the city’s commitment to build reserves to a level that exceeds the pre-pandemic amount on a sustained basis supports its credit fundamentals and helps position it to weather a shallower but more protracted national economic slowdown.”

Fitch Ratings cited the city’s exceptionally strong budget monitoring and controls, supporting Fitch’s high assessment of operating performance. The city experienced “strong recovery coming out of the pandemic, as well as improvement and reserve levels.”

KBRA wrote that the “city’s role as international business and cultural center commensurate with its status as the nation’s largest city, and position as the center of a large metropolitan economy” contributed to its rating assignment and went on to note that “institutionalized policies and procedures support financial stability.”

As a direct result of the Adams administration’s strong, proactive fiscal management and decisive action, the administration achieved a record $6.6 billion in Program to Eliminate the Gap (PEG) savings over Fiscal Years (FY) 2024 and 2025 between the November Financial Plan and the Preliminary Budget. This included $1.7 billion in asylum seeker PEG savings — a 20 percent cut — achieved over FY24 and FY25 by helping to put migrants on a path towards self-sufficiency with intensified case management and reducing the household per-diem costs of providing care.

These actions helped balance the FY25 Preliminary Budget and stabilize the city’s financial position without layoffs, tax hikes, or major disruptions to city services — and their success, along with better-than-expected tax revenue growth, have allowed the administration to restore funding for initiatives that are mayoral priorities, including those related to public safety, quality of life, and young people. Additionally, last week, as a result of the administration’s responsible fiscal management, Mayor Adams was able to cancel the FY25 Executive Budget PEG for city agencies, as well as move city agencies from a full hiring freeze to a 2-for-1 attrition/hiring model and ease other-than-personal spending freeze restrictions. The administration is able to make these changes by further reducing asylum seeker costs by implementing an additional 10 percent PEG on budgeted city-funded asylum seeker costs over FY24 and FY25, while continuing intensive case work for migrants to help them on their path to self-sufficiency.

Since this national humanitarian crisis began, New York City has taken fast and urgent action and continued to effectively manage the asylum seeker humanitarian crisis largely on its own without substantial aid. To date, New York City has provided care for approximately 180,000 asylum seekers since the spring of 2022, with approximately 65,000 still currently in the city’s care. The city has also provided case management, shelter, food, and more to asylum seekers; stood up navigation centers with support from community-based organizations to connect new arrivals with critical resources; and enrolled tens of thousands of school-aged children in public schools through Project Open Arms. As a result of the administration’s responsible policies — including providing 30 to 60 days of intensified case management — more than 60 percent of the asylum seekers who have come through the city’s intake center have left the city’s care and are taking the next steps in their journeys towards self-sufficiency. Additionally, as of the Preliminary Budget, daily growth of the number of migrant households in the city’s care had slowed by nearly 60 percent since the implementation of these policies. Through the Asylum Application Help Center and the city’s satellite sites, the city has helped submit more than 36,000 work authorization, temporary protected status, and asylum applications — moving asylum seekers that much closer to being able to legally work and live a more self-sufficient life.

MAYOR ADAMS, NYC HEALTH + HOSPITALS ANNOUNCE FREE TAX PREP SERVICES FOR NEW YORKERS

With Tax Season Underway, In-Person and Virtual Tax Preparation Services Will Be Available at City Public Hospitals in Various Languages

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and NYC Health + Hospitals today announced free, in-person, and virtual tax preparation services for New Yorkers as part of the New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection’s (DCWP) NYC Free Tax Prep initiative. In partnership with BronxWorks, Grow Brooklyn, Urban Upbound, and Code for America’s GetYourRefund initiative, free tax preparation is available for New Yorkers who earn $85,000 or less annually and file as a family, or those who earn $59,000 or less annually and file as an individual or couple without dependents. Select NYC Health + Hospitals sites offer support in Spanish, Chinese, and Bengali, and virtual tax preparation is available in Spanish as well.

“Every day, we work to make this city more livable for working-class New Yorkers, and by offering free tax preparation at NYC Health + Hospitals sites, we are again delivering for families across the five boroughs,” said Mayor Adams. “Services are available online, in-person, and in multiple languages, making it easy for families to file their taxes and keep money in their pockets. We went to Albany to secure the first increase in the city’s Earned Income Tax Credit in 20 years, and we are thrilled to offer New Yorkers NYC Free Tax Prep to help them receive their fair share this tax season.”

For in-person services, individuals should schedule an appointment in advance and bring identification and proof of income. For virtual services, individuals can upload their documents and meet virtually with a tax preparer to review their tax return before submission. A full checklist of the documents needed to file taxes is available online.

“Tax season can induce anxiety about filling in the right boxes, finding the proper forms, and trying to access all the credits for which you and your family may qualify,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “This year, take a moment to see if you qualify for support through this unique partnership with our public hospital system. In this case, your NYC Health + Hospitals provider might be able to also help you get the peace of mind you need with your taxes.”

“An annual tax refund is often the largest lump-sum payment families receive all year and something that many working New Yorkers count on — even more so since last year’s historic enhancement of the New York City Earned Income Tax Credit,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “Partnerships like the one between DCWP, NYC Health + Hospitals, and the city’s tax preparation partners help us meet New Yorkers where they are with free tax prep services that help them put a meaningful sum of money back into their pockets.”

“For over 20 years, NYC Free Tax Prep has helped file hundreds of thousands of tax returns,” said DCWP Commissioner Vilda Vera Mayuga. “This year, we’re helping filers keep more of their hard-earned money with the enhanced New York City Earned Income Tax Credit and our expanded NYC Free Tax Prep services for self-employed New Yorkers. Thank you to all of our amazing tax prep partners, like NYC Health + Hospitals and MetroPlusHealth, for working to help New Yorkers get their fullest refund.”

“We are proud to partner with NYC Tax Prep to support financial well-being by offering trusted services that save money on filing taxes and promote access to tax credits,” said Nichola Davis, MD, MS, vice president and chief population health officer, NYC Health + Hospitals. “We know that tax refunds can be the biggest influx of income over the course of a year for many, so we aim to alleviate financial stress in order to foster a healthier future for our patients.”

“We are proud to again offer New Yorkers help with filing their taxes this year,” said Steve Mitchell, vice president of sales, MetroPlusHealth. “Many families will benefit from this free service at select MetroPlusHealth community centers, as well as receive guidance on signing up for health insurance.”

NYC Free Tax Prep provides free, professional tax preparation that can help New Yorkers keep their full refund, including valuable tax credits, like the recently enhanced New York City Earned Income Tax Credit. NYC Free Tax Prep Services include:

In-Person Tax Preparation: At in-person tax prep sites, knowledgeable Internal Revenue Service (IRS) certified Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) volunteer preparers help filers complete an accurate tax return. More than 130 sites across the city will be open throughout the season.
Drop-Off Service: With drop-off service, filers can drop off their tax documents and pick up the completed return later.
Virtual Tax Preparation: Virtual Tax Preparation is an online service where an IRS-certified VITA or TCE volunteer preparer will video conference with filers to help prepare their tax return using a secure digital system. Filers can submit photos or scans of tax documents to the preparer, confirm their identity, and complete their return by video call with a preparer. Filers will need access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone; a stable internet connection; and the ability to download secure video conference software.
Assisted Self-Preparation: Assisted Self-Preparation allows filers to complete their tax return online on their own, and an IRS-certified VITA/TCE volunteer preparer will be available by phone or email to answer questions. Filers will need access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone; a stable internet connection; an email address; and their 2022 adjusted gross income or self-select PIN.

NYC Free Tax Prep Services are available now at over 130 VITA and TCE sites around the city. The IRS will accept returns through April 15, 2024. New Yorkers can call 311 or visit the NYC Free Tax Prep website and use DCWP’s interactive map to search for the most convenient free tax site near them.

Below are locations and hours for in-person free tax preparation at NYC Health + Hospitals and MetroPlusHealth sites this season:

In-Person Tax Preparation at NYC Health + Hospitals and MetroPlusHealth Sites

Bronx:

NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, Tremont

1920 Webster Avenue, Bronx, NY 10457

Saturdays, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Available in English and Spanish

Schedule an appointment by calling (718) 993-8880 or going online

Brooklyn:

MetroPlusHealth – Brooklyn

2221 Church Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11226

Fridays, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Schedule an appointment by calling (347) 682-5606 or going online

NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, Broadway

815 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11206

Mondays, 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Schedule an appointment by calling (347) 682-5606 or going online

NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, East New York

2094 Pitkin Avenue, 1^st Floor, P31, Brooklyn, NY 11207

Wednesdays, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Schedule an appointment by calling (718) 784-0877

Manhattan:

NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue

461 1st Avenue, F-Link, Room CD49, New York, NY 10016

Fridays, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Schedule an appointment by calling (718) 784-0877

Queens:

MetroPlusHealth – Flushing

136-13 Roosevelt Avenue, Flushing, NY 11354

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturdays, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Available in English and Chinese

Schedule an appointment by calling (718) 784-0877

MetroPlusHealth – Jackson Heights

92-14 Roosevelt Avenue, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

Tuesdays, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturdays, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Available in English and Spanish

Schedule an appointment by calling (718) 784-0877

NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst

79-01 Broadway, Main Lobby, Elmhurst, NY 11373

Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Available in English, Bengali, and Spanish

Schedule an appointment by calling (718) 784-0877

NYC Health + Hospitals/Queens

82-68 164th Street, Pavilion Building – Ground Floor, Room P053, Jamaica, NY 11432

Wednesdays, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Available in English, Bengali, and Spanish

Schedule an appointment by calling (718) 784-0877

Virtual Tax Preparation Options

NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, Cumberland

Available in English and Spanish

NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, Gouverneur

Available in English and Spanish

NYC Health + Hospitals/Harlem

Available in English and Spanish

NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi

Available in English and Spanish

NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County

Available in English and Spanish

NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln

Available in English and Spanish

NYC Health + Hospitals/Metropolitan

Available in English and Spanish

NYC Health + Hospitals/North Central Bronx

Available in English and Spanish

NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, Roosevelt

Available in English and Spanish

NYC Health + Hospitals/South Brooklyn Health

Available in English and Spanish

NYC Health + Hospitals/Woodhull

Available in English and Spanish

“New Yorkers from every community and income bracket should have the resources they need to prepare and file their taxes on time,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Mayor Adams’ partnership with NYC Health + Hospitals and community organizations will allow just that by providing tax preparation free of charge. As a representative from Queens, the most linguistically diverse urban area in the world, I am also proud that we are offering support in English, Spanish, Chinese, and Bengali — the four most commonly spoken languages in our borough. This important initiative will help all New Yorkers file accurately, maximize their refund, and avoid any errors.”

MAYOR ADAMS, DDC, NYC PARKS BREAK GROUND ON $92 MILLION MARY CALI DALTON RECREATION CENTER ON STATEN ISLAND

New 45,000-Square-Foot Waterfront Center Will Feature Sports Courts, Four Electric Vehicle Charging Stations, Indoor-Outdoor Running Track, and Fitness and Cardio Rooms

First Staten Island Recreation Center Groundbreaking in Over 14 Years

Project Will Be Completed By 2025 Through Competitive Bidding Via DDC’s Design-Build Program

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Department of Design and Construction (DDC) Commissioner Thomas Foley, and New York City Department of Parks and Recreation (NYC Parks) Commissioner Sue Donoghue today broke ground on the new $92 million Mary Cali Dalton Recreation Center in Tompkinsville, Staten Island.

Today’s groundbreaking marks the first groundbreaking for a recreation center on Staten Island in over 14 years. The recreation center is a key part of Mayor Adams’ “Staten Island North Shore Action Plan,” a roadmap that details strategic investments to the North Shore of Staten Island that will unlock 20 acres of public open space, create over 7,500 family-sustaining jobs, generate an estimated economic impact of $3.8 billion, and accelerate the completion of over 2,400 units of housing.

“For too long, Staten Island has been neglected and ignored, but this administration is changing that. From opening part of Freshkills Park to expanding the Staten Island Compost Facility, and now, building a recreational center here for the first time in 14 years, we’re delivering on our vision for a better Staten Island,” said Mayor Adams. “The Mary Cali Dalton Recreation Center will be a community hub where Staten Islanders can learn, play, and enjoy public space together, and it is a fitting tribute to Mary Cali Dalton, a leader who understood the power of parks and public space. Our administration looks forward to continuing to invest in Staten Island — whether through parks, jobs, housing, or quality of life improvements — and delivering for all of the borough’s residents.”

Mari Cali

Rendering of the future Mary Cali Dalton Recreation Center in Tompkinsville.

Source: NYC Parks

“Today we celebrate a tremendous milestone for Staten Island and New York as a whole. One of the first NYC Parks projects using design build, bringing the construction team into the design process. The Mary Cali Dalton Recreation Center will be open for business two and a half years earlier than it would otherwise — an example of what’s possible with alternative delivery, ” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “With Albany’s help, we can expand the use of these tools to deliver New Yorkers more needed civic projects like Mary Cali Dalton Recreation Center quicker and cheaper, and with greater M/WBE participation. This is a win.”

“This center will be a gem of the Parks system, offering North Shore residents a variety of recreational amenities and a wealth of programming right in their own community,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Donoghue. “This marks the second recent groundbreaking for new recreation center construction under Mayor Adams, reinforcing this administration’s commitment to increasing equitable access to green space and park facilities. We’re thrilled that the facility will feature solar panels and electric vehicle charging stations, and also that the design build process employed for this project will allow it to be completed two years faster than usual.”

“The current parking lot next to Lyon’s Pool will be transformed into a wonderful recreation center that will include sport courts, multi-purpose areas, fitness equipment, and other amenities for the people of Staten Island to enjoy,” said DDC Commissioner Foley. “This center is not only a great step forward for recreation in the borough, but also a huge step forward for the city’s capital program and for the administration’s efforts to improve capital project delivery. The Mary Cali Dalton Recreation Center is one of the city’s first Design-Build projects. With Design-Build, we expect this project to be completed by the end of next year, saving two full years. This project emphasizes the need to reform DDC as a new state authority, so we can bring these much-needed facilities to communities sooner and at lower cost.”

“Today’s groundbreaking is an important moment for the community and marks another milestone for the revitalization of Staten Island’s North Shore,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation President & CEO Andrew Kimball. “As a key part of the Adams administration’s North Shore Action Plan, this recreation center will be accessible via the new Tompkinsville esplanade and part of the two-mile ‘green-ribbon’ along the North Shore that will give Staten Islanders access to the waterfront at last. We are thrilled to work alongside our partners in government and can’t wait to watch this community thrive as a vibrant, mixed-use neighborhood.”

“As a native Staten Islander who spent countless hours at the Cromwell Recreation Center during my childhood, I am deeply honored to be part of this mayoral administration as we break ground on the Mary Cali Recreation Center,” said Jasmine Ray, director, Mayor’s Office of Sports, Wellness, and Recreation. “This moment feels full circle for me, as I witness firsthand, and am a product of the transformative power of accessible recreation facilities in our community. I am proud to contribute to the creation of a new space that will undoubtedly shape the lives of countless individuals, just as it did for me. Today, we celebrate not just the construction of a building, but the continuation of a legacy of health, wellness, and community on the North Shore of Staten Island.”

The center will be named in memory of beloved NYC Parks Chief of Recreation for Staten Island Mary Cali Dalton. Dalton began her career at NYC Parks in 1999 as a Work Experience Program participant before being hired as a playground associate one year later. Less than five months later, she was promoted to recreation specialist where she worked to enhance recreational programming until taking over as borough director of recreation in 2002. Dalton was best known for her mantra of “being in charge of the magic,” and diligently worked to provide Staten Islanders with the most innovative, cutting-edge programming and recreational opportunities possible.

The new 45,000-square-foot center will offer a variety of recreational amenities, including sports courts, four electric vehicle charging stations, an indoor-outdoor running track, and fitness and cardio rooms.

NYC Parks gathered community feedback about the new recreation center through two community input meetings during the design phase in December 2020 and January 2021. The new facility will be adjacent to the former Cromwell Recreation Center, which closed in 2010, and will be located at 1 Hannah Street, along the waterfront in Tompkinsville and adjacent to NYC Parks’ Lyons Pool.

This project was completed through DDC’s Design-Build initiative, which delivered the project two-and-a-half years faster than through the traditional approach, with expected completion at the end of 2025. Design-Build helps reduce project costs and shorten construction time by having one entity — instead of — execute both the design and construction processes.

“The Mary Cali Dalton Recreation Center, in the heart of Staten Island, encapsulates our commitment to health, community, and innovation,” said New York State Assemblymember Charles D. Fall. “This center, the first of its kind in over a decade, meets significant M/WBE participation goals and sets new standards in community development. Furthermore, naming it after Mary Cali Dalton honors a local hero whose life’s work was devoted to our community’s betterment. Proud to have advocated & fought for advancement of this facility. This is a proud day for Staten Island.”

“I am excited that the long awaited groundbreaking of the Mary Cali Dalton Recreation Center is finally here,” said New York State Assemblymember Sam Pirozzolo. “Thank you to the mayor, the Parks department, DDC, and everyone involved for your work in materializing this vital community resource for all Staten Islanders – from Tompkinsville and beyond.”

“Today’s groundbreaking of the Mary Cali Dalton Recreation Center on Staten Island marks a historic investment in our communities. This state-of-the-art $92 million facility—the first new recreation center in the borough in over 14 years—will provide residents with a place to stay active, connect with others, and enjoy the beauty of the waterfront,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Through the innovative use of design-build, we will expedite the construction process and complete the entire 45,000 square foot center in only a year, nothing short of a miracle for a New York City development. We have also met the 30% M/WBE utilization goal, ensuring our tax dollars will uplift communities and give everyone their fair share of contracting. The project bears all the hallmarks of Mayor Adams’ administration: equal investment in every community, innovative strategies, rapid turnaround time, and inclusion of all New Yorkers.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES TWO-YEAR SUSPENSION FOR PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER FOLLOWING INVESTIGATION INTO DECEMBER 2023 BRONX BUILDING COLLAPSE

Major Building Collapse Still Under Active Investigation by DOB, DOI, and Bronx DA

Further Investigation Could Result in Further Enforcement

Against Professional Engineer Richard Koenigsberg

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) Commissioner Jimmy Oddo today announced the signing of an agreement with professional engineer Richard Koenigsberg related to his negligence in inspecting and identifying structural elements of a building located at 1915 Billingsley Terrace, leading up to a partial collapse that occurred in December 2023 in the Morris Heights neighborhood of the Bronx. Several days after the collapse, DOB took action to temporarily suspend Koenigsberg’s ability to conduct façade inspections in New York City, pending further enforcement actions.

In the legally binding agreement, Koenigsberg agreed to a voluntary two-year suspension of his ability to conduct façade inspections in New York City under the Local Law 11 Façade Inspection and Safety Program and agreed to pay a $10,000 fine. Parallel investigations into the various factors that may have contributed to the collapse are currently being conducted by DOB, the New York City Department of Investigation, and the Office of the Bronx District Attorney. Additional enforcement actions may be issued to the responsible parties at the building based on these ongoing investigations.

“Public safety is our administration’s top priority, and the signing of today’s agreement should serve as a reminder to all construction professionals about the importance of carrying out their duties professionally, competently, and, most importantly, safely,” said Mayor Adams. “I would like to thank Commissioner Oddo and his team at DOB for their quick and tireless work to hold Mr. Koenigsberg accountable following this incredibly dangerous collapse, and for helping to get the displaced families back into their homes safely.”

“Public safety in our city relies heavily on the competence and expertise of state-licensed private engineers, especially their ability to properly diagnose building conditions. When a private engineer fails to demonstrate this competency, our construction professional disciplinary team will not hesitate to take quick action to curtail their ability to work in our city,” said DOB Commissioner Oddo. “Decisive actions, like the one announced today against Mr. Koenigsberg, send a clear message to the industry that we will not tolerate sloppy work that puts our fellow New Yorkers in danger. Since the collapse occurred, our enforcement team has worked tirelessly — investigating all of the factors that could have contributed to the collapse, completing numerous field inspection sweeps of other properties across the city associated with the responsible parties at this building, and pushing the landlords to make needed repairs to 1915 Billingsley Terrace in an effort to get displaced families back into their homes both safely and as quickly as possible.”

On December 11, 2023, a corner of the occupied apartment building at 1915 Billingsley Terrace suffered a major collapse. Thankfully, this incident did not result in any fatalities or serious injuries. Prior to the collapse, Koenigsberg was acting in the capacity of a professional engineer — contracted by the building owners for required façade inspections and subsequent repairs — where he misdiagnosed a load-bearing column at the northeast corner of the building as non-structural in his engineering drawings. Following the collapse, DOB issued a full vacate order for the entire building in the interest of public safety. Since that time, extensive structural inspections of the building and major repairs performed by the property owners have allowed many of the families to safely move back into the building.

The new agreement requires Koenigsberg to wind down his business over a four-month period, during which he will be allowed to complete any active jobs where he was previously contracted to perform Local Law 11 façade safety inspections. However, resulting façade inspection reports for jobs already underway must undergo peer review approval by a third-party engineering firm prior to being submitted to DOB, where they will then be subject to enhanced scrutiny from senior DOB engineers. Jobs where Koenigsberg has already completed the inspections and already generated façade safety reports will not be required to undergo a peer review but are subject to enhanced scrutiny from DOB engineers.

Additionally, DOB has already completed audits of the 368 façade inspection reports filed by Koenigsberg in 2023 to ensure their accuracy. DOB has informed the New York State Office of the Professions — the appropriate state oversight body for state-licensed engineers — of the findings of its audits as well as shared details about today’s agreement. Finally, DOB is currently reviewing existing agency regulations related to the qualifications of industry professionals who perform Local Law 11 façade inspections in New York City to determine if there are any opportunities to strengthen registration requirements for these private façade inspectors in the interest of public safety.

This agreement was settled in lieu of a formal disciplinary hearing at the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings.

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES CANCELLATION OF NEXT ROUND OF AGENCY SPENDING CUTS AS A RESULT OF STRONG FISCAL MANAGEMENT, ADDITIONAL CUTS TO ASYLUM SEEKER SPENDING, BETTER-THAN-EXPECTED ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE

City to Implement Additional 10 Percent Savings on Budgeted City-Funded Asylum Seeker Costs in FY25 Executive Budget — On Top of 20 Percent Cut Previously Announced — While Continuing to Provide Migrants With Intensive Case Work to Build Self-Sufficient Lives

Moody’s Investors Service Applauds Adams Administration’s for “Robust Financial Management,” “Successful Implementation of Budget Measures to Help Close Budget Gaps”

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the cancellation of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Executive Budget Program to Eliminate the Gap (PEG) for city agencies — a direct result of decisive actions early on by the Adams administration to stabilize the budget through continued strong fiscal management, better-than-expected economic performance in 2023 that resulted in an upward revision to the city’s tax revenue forecast, and additional cuts to asylum seeker spending. The Adams administration is more specifically cutting an additional 10 percent in budgeted city-funded asylum seeker costs on top of the successful 20 percent asylum seeker PEG in the Preliminary Budget that already saved more than $1.7 billion in city spending, while continuing intensive case work for migrants to help them on their path to self-sufficiency. In addition to cancelling the city agency PEGs, the administration is moving from a near full hiring freeze to a 2-for-1 model and easing other than personal spending (OTPS) freeze restrictions.

Today’s announcement comes just one day after internationally recognized, independent credit rating agency Moody’s Investors Service affirmed New York City’s Aa2 issuer rating and praised the Adams administration for its “robust financial management” and the successful “implementation of budget measures to help close budget gaps…caused by the migrant crisis.”

“Our administration came into office with a mission to protect public safety, rebuild our economy, and make our city more livable for everyday New Yorkers. After two years of hard work, we are heading in the right direction: Jobs are up, crime is down, tourists are back, and we are delivering for working-class New Yorkers every day,” said Mayor Adams. “And despite facing a perfect fiscal storm that included a multi-billion-dollar budget gap driven by an asylum seeker crisis, the sunsetting of COVID-19 federal stimulus funding, and the cost of inherited outstanding labor costs, our administration was able to successfully make the strong fiscal decisions to navigate us to prosperity. The combination of our tough, but necessary financial management decisions, including cutting asylum seeker spending by billions of dollars, along with better-than-expected economic performance in 2023, is allowing us to cancel the last round of spending cuts, as well as lift the near total freezes on city hiring and other than personal spending. Make no mistake — we are not yet out of the woods, as we still need Albany and Washington, D.C. to play their roles in providing New Yorkers with additional support. But this new chapter is the result of a full collaboration across city government, our nonprofit partners, and so many others, and will allow us to continue to deliver on our mission for a safer, cleaner, more prosperous New York City for all.”

Last summer, the city faced a multi-billion budget gap due to the growing asylum seeker crisis, drying up federal COVID-19 stimulus funding, expenses from labor contracts this administration inherited that went unresolved for years, and slowing tax revenue growth. To manage these concerns, the administration implemented PEG savings programs and a near total freeze on hiring and other than personnel spending in the November Financial Plan, as well as in the Preliminary and Executive Budgets. But, as a direct result of the Adams administration’s proactive fiscal management and decisive action, the administration achieved a record $6.6 billion in PEG savings over FY24 and FY25 in the November Financial Plan and the Preliminary Budget. This included $1.7 billion in asylum seeker PEG savings — a 20 percent cut — achieved over FY24 and FY25 by helping put migrants on a path to self-sufficiency with intensified case management and reducing the household per-diem costs of providing care.

These actions helped balance the FY25 Preliminary Budget and stabilize the city’s financial position without layoffs, tax hikes, or major disruptions to city services — and their success, along with another 10 percent in migrant spending cuts and better-than-expected tax revenue growth, have allowed the administration to restore funding for savings initiatives that are mayoral priorities related to public safety, quality of life, and young people, as well as fully cancel the FY25 Executive Budget agency PEG.

New York City has continued to effectively manage the asylum seeker humanitarian crisis largely on its own without substantial aid. To date, New York City has provided care for more than 178,600 asylum seekers, with approximately 65,000 currently still in the city’s care. The city has also provided case management, shelter, food, and more to asylum seekers; stood up navigation centers with support from community-based organizations to connect new arrivals with critical resources; and enrolled tens of thousands of school-aged children to public schools through Project Open Arms. As a result of the administration’s responsible policies — including providing 30 to 60 days of intensified case management — more than 60 percent of the asylum seekers who have come through the city’s intake center have left the city’s care and are taking the next steps in their journeys towards self-sufficiency. Additionally, as of the Preliminary Budget, daily growth of the number of migrant households in the city’s care had slowed by nearly 60 percent since the implementation of these policies. Through the Asylum Application Help Center and the city’s satellite sites, the city has helped submit more than 35,000 work authorization, temporary protected status, and asylum applications — moving asylum seekers that much closer to being able to legally work and be self-sufficient.

MAYOR ADAMS’ STATEMENT ON SUPREME COURT DECISION ON RENT STABILIZATION LAWS

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today released the following statement after the United States Supreme Court issued a decision on New York’s rent stabilization laws:

“We are pleased that the U.S. Supreme Court has denied the remaining petitions challenging New York’s rent stabilization laws. For 50 years, rent stabilization has kept rents affordable for millions of New Yorkers and their families. Today, tenants can breathe a sigh of relief. As this administration tackles the city’s affordability crisis from all angles, we remain committed to defending New York’s rent stabilization laws so tenants can afford to stay in their homes and communities.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES LAWSUIT AGAINST SOCIAL MEDIA COMPANIES FUELING NATIONWIDE YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS

Adams Administration Files Lawsuit to Hold TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and YouTube Accountable for Their Platforms’ Damaging Influence on Mental Health of Children

City Issues Action Plan to Address Harms Caused by Social Media

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Corporation Counsel Sylvia O. Hinds Radix, New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan, NYC Health + Hospitals (NYC H+H) President Dr. Michell Katz, and New York City Department of Education (DOE) Chancellor David C. Banks today announced the filing of a lawsuit to hold five social media platforms — TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and YouTube — accountable for fueling the nationwide youth mental health crisis. The city is joining hundreds of school districts from across the country in filing litigation seeking to force tech giants to change their behavior and to recover the costs of addressing this public health threat. The city spends more than $100 million on youth mental health programs and services each year. To help address this ongoing crisis and the harm caused by these platforms, Mayor Adams also today released a social media action plan, “New York City’s Role in the National Crisis of Social Media and Youth Mental Health: Framework for Action, to hold social media companies accountable, provide education and support to young people and families, and study the long-term impacts of social media on youth.

Today’s announcement builds on the Health Commissioner’s Advisory that DOHMH Commissioner Dr. Vasan issued last month, identifying unfettered access to and use of social media as a public health hazard, just as past U.S. surgeons general have done with tobacco and firearms. The advisory provides recommendations to parents and caregivers, health care providers, educators, and policymakers on actions that can be taken to protect children, including the recommendation to delay social media use until the age of 14.

“Over the past decade, we have seen just how addictive and overwhelming the online world can be, exposing our children to a non-stop stream of harmful content and fueling our national youth mental health crisis,” said Mayor Adams. “Our city is built on innovation and technology, but many social media platforms end up endangering our children’s mental health, promoting addiction, and encouraging unsafe behavior. Today, we’re taking bold action on behalf of millions of New Yorkers to hold these companies accountable for their role in this crisis, and we’re building on our work to address this public health hazard. This lawsuit and action plan are part of a larger reckoning that will shape the lives of our young people, our city, and our society for years to come.”

“Social media companies like TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, and Meta are fueling a national youth mental health crisis,” said Corporation Counsel Hinds-Radix. “These companies have chosen profit over the wellbeing of children by intentionally designing their platforms with manipulative and addictive features and using harmful algorithms targeted to young people. Social media companies should be held accountable for this misconduct and for the harms they cause to our children, schools, and entire communities.”

“Online networks are powerful tools to connect with friends, family, classmates, and so much more,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “However, social media can also be a place for unhealthy comparisons to others, a platform for bullying, and lead to negative mental health implications for our children. Building on our social media summit in 2023, we are now releasing a social media action plan to support young people and families as they navigate social media. We are also taking legal and regulatory action to hold social media companies accountable for their actions and urging them to help build healthier environments for their users, particularly for children and young people. This administration is committed to protecting and promoting the health and well-being of every child and young person in every space whether in everyday life or online.”

“This is about protecting our young people,” said City Hall Chief Counsel Lisa Zornberg. “The U.S. surgeon general was right to say this is ‘just not a fair fight.’ The best product developers in the world have designed addictive feeds and features to maximize the amount of time young people spend on the platform — leaving parents, young people, teachers, and emergency rooms to deal with the harmful consequences. Real relief is needed and real change from the social media companies is long past due.”

“Social media is a toxin in our digital environment, like lead, air pollution, and nicotine are in our physical one,” said DOHMH Commissioner Dr. Vasan. “Environmental toxins require regulation, control, and mitigation, and public health must build on its environmental health legacy to address this modern threat. New York City is employing a wide array of tools to fight back, including education and awareness, research, and regulation, and this lawsuit is the latest example of our city’s commitment to ensure young people are safe from the impacts of social media on mental health and wellbeing. The laissez-faire days for tech giants must end and expecting them to self-regulate is naïve. As a parent and as the city’s doctor, to protect the public’s health, we will not remain idle while these platforms damage the health of our children.”

“Social media has opened a window to the world for so many, however major social media companies have abused their power, resulting in serious consequences for the mental health of our students,” said DOE Chancellor Banks. “It is clear these companies have failed our young people, and I’m proud to be standing with my city agency partners to call for accountability, and for our nation’s policymakers to take action to protect our kids.”

“Social media has become a central part of many of our lives, especially among children and adolescents,” said NYC H+H Chief of Behavioral Health and Co-Deputy Chief Medical Officer Omar Fattal, MD, MPH. “We must maximize our efforts to support the mental health needs of children and adolescents by providing families with tools and resources that foster healthy development. This includes robustly addressing the negative impact of social media on the mental health of children and adolescents. We join the mayor and DOHMH in encouraging all young people and their families to consider their use of social media and how it may be negatively affecting them.”

“Social media can be used as a tool for information-sharing and building community. But, as a mental health clinician, I have also witnessed the profound negative impacts it continues to have on the mental health of many of our young people,” said Mayor’s Office of Community Mental Health Executive Director Eva Wong. “Often times, social media exposes our children to cyberbullying, body image issues, online predators, privacy concerns, and increasing risk of depression, anxiety, feelings of isolation, and even suicide. As a mother, I’m deeply concerned about the enduring negative effect social media has on shaping youth culture. And today, as a city, we are saying it is not sufficient to merely caution young people about the dangers of social media; we must also hold companies accountable for creating and profiting from an environmental toxin that harms our children and young people.”

Today’s lawsuit — filed in California Superior Court by the City of New York, the DOE (the largest school district in the nation), and NYC H+H (the country’s largest public hospital system) — seeks to hold the companies operating TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and YouTube accountable for their role creating the youth mental health crisis in New York City. The lawsuit alleges that companies intentionally designed their platforms to purposefully manipulate and addict children and teens to social media applications with features that include:

Using algorithms to generate feeds that keep users on the platforms longer and encourage compulsive use.
Using mechanics akin to gambling in the design of apps, which allow for anticipation and craving for “likes” and “hearts,” and also provides continuous, personalized streams of content and advertisements.
Manipulating users through reciprocity — a social force, especially powerful among teenagers, that describes how people feel compelled to respond to one positive action with another positive action. These platforms take advantage of reciprocity by, for example, automatically telling the sender when their message was seen or sending notifications when a message was delivered, encouraging teens to return to the platform again and again and perpetuating online engagement and immediate responses.

The complaint specifically states the companies’ intentional conduct and negligence has been a substantial factor in fueling a youth mental health crisis, which constitutes a public nuisance affecting schools, public hospitals, and communities citywide, and, as a result, that the city has had to expend significant resources to address. In New York City, over 38 percent of high school students reported feeling so sad or hopeless during the past year that they stopped engaging in their usual activities. The rate of hopelessness among New York City high schoolers in 2021 was almost 50 percent higher for Latino and Black students than for white students, and almost 70 percent higher for female students than for male students. Today, over one-third of 13- to 17-year-old children nationwide report using social media “almost constantly” and admit this is “too much.” Yet, more than half of these kids report that they would struggle to cut back on their social media use. Likewise, in 2021, 77 percent of New York City high school students reported spending an average of three or more hours per school day in front of screens — not including time spent on schoolwork.

“Our children are facing a mental health crisis fueled by social media companies’ disregard for their safety and wellbeing,” said New York Attorney General Letitia James. “We owe it to our kids to tackle the damaging effects of social media, and I applaud Mayor Adams for taking this important action today to hold these companies accountable. This lawsuit builds on the important work we’ve done to advance legislation to rein in the most addictive and dangerous features on social media and the legal action we’ve taken to stop them. It is unacceptable that big tech companies can profit off the harm they are doing to young people, and I want to thank Mayor Adams for joining our effort to protect the next generation of New Yorkers.”

In addition to the city’s work supporting New York City youth in crisis through DOHMH and NYC H+H programming, DOE has devoted significant resources to combatting students’ addiction to social media and the many resulting harms, including by responding to cyberbullying occurring outside of class, providing counseling for anxiety and depression, and developing curricula about the effects of social media and how to stay safe online.

In March 2023, the Adams administration launched “Care, Community, Action: A Mental Health Plan for New York City,” a mental health plan focused on improving the mental health of children and young people. Following the plan’s release, the city convened more than 150 advocates, researchers, technologists, mental health providers, community-based organizations, and caregivers in partnership with New York City youth to lay out potential pathways for action to protect the mental health of children and youth. The convening provided the recommendations that built the foundation for today’s social media action plan, outlining New York City’s commitment to protect young New Yorkers against this threat and empower them to use these technologies in ways that are less harmful. As part of today’s plan, the city will also identify where local data can support existing research on this topic and opportunities to survey youth on their experiences with social media, why they use social media, their current social media habits, and social media’s impacts on their mental health. Finally, the city will advocate with state and federal policymakers to put in place laws that require social media companies to ensure that their platforms are safe for youth mental health.

MAYOR ADAMS FULFILLS MAJOR STREET SAFETY COMMITMENT BY MAKING CITY VEHICLE FLEET SAFER

Issuance of Executive Order Will Increase Safety Requirements for City Contractor Vehicles,

Ensures That All New City Trucks Have 360-Degree Cameras or High-Visibility Design

NYPD Has Updated CompStat to Include Traffic Violence Statistics

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today issued Executive Order 39, outlining a comprehensive approach to addressing truck and bus safety for the city’s fleet and contracted units. Under the new executive order, and for the first time in the city’s history, city contractors will have new safety requirements, including preparing fleet safety plans, increasing driver training, adopting telematics, and adding 360-degree cameras to mitigate the impacts of visual impairments for operators. Mayor Adams also today ordered that all new trucks procured by the City of New York for use by city employees will be required to have 360-degree cameras or high-visibility designs. The executive order fulfills Mayor Adams’ commitment to enhance city contractor fleet safety as a part of a broad new street safety initiative, which included efforts to make thousands of New York City intersections safer. Additionally, the New York City Police Department (NYPD) has begun including traffic violence statistics in its regular CompStat reporting.

“Traffic safety is public safety, and our administration is doubling down on our efforts to make streets safe places for pedestrians, cyclists, delivery workers, drivers, and everyone else using our streets,” said Mayor Adams. “The executive order I’m issuing today will help equip the vehicles that ‘Get Stuff Done’ for New Yorkers with the latest technologies and features to be as safe as possible. New Yorkers deserve safe streets, and we’re delivering for them again today.”

“New York must be a national leader in establishing safety on the road,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “This executive order, establishing new safety guardrails for the city’s fleet, will go a long way in making that a reality — making meaningful progress in our Vision Zero goals with safety enhancements for over 23,000 trucks and buses traveling through New York City.”

“This executive order to expand safety requirements for certain city vehicles moves New York closer to eliminating the behavior that can cause roadway injuries and deaths,” said NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban. “Traffic safety is an integral component of the NYPD’s overall public safety strategy, and it will remain so through this administration.”

“Today’s announcement is a major step towards safer streets for New Yorkers, and is a big win for our city,” said New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) Commissioner Dawn M. Pinnock. “We are proud to be a part of the Adams administration and see safety strategies, like these, move from inception to execution. By codifying these requirements, we are taking a holistic approach to innovate fleet safety technologies, installing new safeguards, and utilizing training and fleet planning to help keep our bustling streets safe from automotive incidents.”

“A key piece of delivering street safety is ensuring the vehicles on our roads are as safe as possible—not only for their operators but also for the pedestrians and cyclists on our streets,” said New York City Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “These measures will bring important safety gains to our streets by requiring city vehicles, and those of the city’s contractors, to be held to high safety standards under Vision Zero. We thank Mayor Adams, DCAS Commissioner Dawn M. Pinnock, and all of our agency partners and contractors for their commitment to reducing traffic fatalities in New York City.”

Today’s executive order codifies training requirements for all city fleet drivers and city contractors to participate in safe driver training. Furthermore, effective July 1, 2024, all city contractors will be required to develop fleet safety plans, enroll drivers in the State License Event Notification System, and report all crashes that occur while doing business on behalf of the city. Additional details of the executive order include:

The required adoption of telematics that tracks location and speed, and to report this information to city agencies when performing city contract services. As required by Executive Order 41 of 2019, the city’s fleet has already been utilizing telematics to inform safety improvements. Local Law 32 requires tracking for contracted school buses. This executive order will extend the requirement to all city contracts.
A requirement for city fleet vehicles and trucks from city contractors to install 360-degree cameras or invest in high-visibility trucks. DCAS has installed 360-degree cameras on 2,000 city trucks and will procure high-vision trucks whenever available. These 360-degree cameras and high-vision trucks play a critical role in addressing visual obstructions for truck drivers that can place pedestrians, bicyclists, children, and all vulnerable road users at risk.

An estimated 5,600 contracted trucks will be impacted by this executive order. The city operates nearly 7,500 trucks and 10,000 contracted school buses, resulting in safety enhancements for over 23,000 trucks and buses traveling throughout New York City daily.

Additionally, late last year, Mayor Adams announced that the NYPD would begin integrating traffic fatality data on its CompStat 2.0 online dashboard, a resource that provides New Yorkers with weekly statistics that reflect the administration’s progress on fighting overall crime and promoting traffic safety. The new category — broken down by patrol borough, precinct, day of the week, and time-of-day — now puts traffic violence on par with violent crime and elevates the administration’s efforts to reduce traffic-related injuries and deaths in every neighborhood. Further, the now-launched NYPD online Traffic Data section contains statistical information about moving violation summonses, motor vehicle collisions, and instances of leaving-the-scene-of-an-incident, and provides access to the NYPD’s raw feed of traffic-related data used to populate the searchable “Traffic Safety Forum.”

“DCAS is leading the way nationally in safety improvements to its fleet, including truck side-guards, telematics, intelligent speed assistance, and truck surround cameras,” said DCAS Deputy Commissioner and New York City Chief Fleet Officer Keith Kerman. “With this executive order, Mayor Adams extends the DCAS Safe Fleet Plan to city contractors, ensuring that all who do work on the city’s behalf and that are funded by the city — whether with in-house fleet or contracted vehicles — are operating in the safest possible manner. DCAS looks forward to working with all our partner agencies to implement this Vision Zero priority.”

“The new safety requirements in this executive order holds city fleets and contractors accountable,” said New York State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud. “I applaud Mayor Adams for this comprehensive approach to addressing truck and bus safety and keeping residents’ safety first.”

“I have been proud to partner with Mayor Adams on several comprehensive initiatives to end traffic violence in our city,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Today, the city takes the next step by requiring that the City Fleet abide by additional safety requirements, including training for drivers and technology upgrades. In the state legislature, I authored original legislation regulating e-bikes, requiring them to be registered with the State DMV and have license plates, insurance, and regular inspections. With these joint initiatives at the city and state levels, we will make the roads of the Big Apple the safest of any big city in America.”

“Just one injury or death on our streets is far too many, and it’s incumbent on all of us in government to leave no stone unturned in making our streets safer for our families, however they use them,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “Today’s announcement will prevent needless injuries or loss of life, both in the form of these new safety requirements and the inclusion of traffic violence statistics in CompStat — allowing us to better track, study and address crashes going forward. Thank you to the administration for putting forth this crucial effort.”

“Today’s announcement is a significant step forward towards ensuring our streets are safe for pedestrians, cyclists, drivers and anyone else using our city’s roads by equipping our city fleet drivers and vehicles with the tools to be safe on our city’s roads,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “I want to thank Mayor Adams and his team for their continued commitment to prioritizing traffic safety and reducing traffic violence. I look forward to our continued work together to keep our streets safe.”

“When it comes to street safety, it’s imperative that New York City’s government lead by example. So many cars and trucks on our city’s streets are contracted vehicles working for the city, so it’s critical that these vehicles and these drivers will be held to new and higher standards when it comes to safety,” said Danny Harris, executive director, Transportation Alternatives. “We look forward to working with DCAS and other city agencies to ensure safer fleets and safer streets all across New York.”

“Families for Safe Streets is heartened to see the city strengthening its street safety standards for the contractors it hires,” said Kate Brockwehl, policy and advocacy committee co-chair, Families for Safe Streets. “We are particularly excited the city will be requiring fleet safety technology like surround cameras. We know these safety solutions will save lives in the five boroughs.”

“Today’s executive order creates a framework that will not only dramatically influence road safety in New York City, but that will positively affect purchasing decisions in cities across the country,” said Peter Goldwasser, executive director, Together for Safer Roads. “By focusing on the issue of high vision trucks, New York City is sending a clear message that truck design matters and that safer alternatives — trucks that provide superior direct vision — should be the new standard. The issue of blind zones and cab design is one that Together for Safer Roads is fully committed to and one that we look forward to continuing to partner on with New York City, including utilizing our Direct Vision 5 Star Rating System. Congratulations to DCAS for continuing to innovate and lead on road safety.”

NYC EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ISSUES TRAVEL ADVISORY FOR MONDAY NIGHT INTO TUESDAY FOR SNOW, GUSTY WINDS, AND MINOR COASTAL FLOODING

Alternate Side Parking will be Suspended on Tuesday, Meters Are Still in Effect

NYC Public Schools will Pivot to Remote Learning

February 12, 2024 – The New York City Emergency Management Department has issued a Travel Advisory for Monday night, February 12 into Tuesday, February 13. A Winter Storm Watch is in effect citywide from 4:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tuesday. The latest National Weather Service forecast calls for the possibility of 5 to 8 inches of snow at rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour. This may result in difficult travel alongside low visibility, especially for the morning commute tomorrow. New Yorkers are urged to remain off the roads to allow crews to operate and respond to weather conditions.

Precipitation is expected to start off as rain around midnight tonight. Snow begins to mix in around 3:00 to 4:00 a.m. and transitions to all snow around 7:00 to 8:00 a.m. Snowfall will be heaviest toward daybreak and steadily continue through the morning, ending in the early afternoon. The precise storm track and location of heaviest snow banding remains uncertain. Snowfall totals may change leading up to and during the event.

Gusty northeast winds of 30 to 40 mph are also expected tomorrow morning into the afternoon, reducing visibility due to blowing snow. Widespread minor coastal flooding is also possible during high tides tomorrow morning. Tides are expected to peak around 11:00 a.m. in the NY Harbor and Jamaica Bay, and around 2:00 p.m. in the Long Island Sound.

“With several inches of snow, poor visibility on the roads, and possible coastal flooding heading our way, New Yorkers should prepare in advance of tomorrow’s storm and take the necessary precautions to remain safe,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “All relevant city agencies have been activated and are prepared to handle whatever comes our way, but we’re asking New Yorkers to do their part, too. If you do not have to be on the roads tomorrow, please stay home, and, if you’re a property owner, remember to clear your sidewalks. As a reminder, New Yorkers should sign up for Notify NYC to keep up to date on winter weather.”

“NYC Emergency Management has issued a Travel Advisory due to a significant winter storm forecasted to impact the region,” said New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol. “We have mobilized a comprehensive response with our city agencies and utility partners, but while we are preparing for any eventuality, I urge New Yorkers to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary for their safety and to allow our Sanitation Department (DSNY) crews and first responders to navigate the storm and reach those in need more quickly. Please stay informed through Notify NYC to navigate potential travel disruptions and to be able to get around safely. As always, let’s not forget to check on our family and neighbors who might need extra support at this time.”

“Thousands of New York’s Strongest are prepared to spread salt on every street in the City and plow snow when accumulations hit 2 inches or more,” said Jessica Tisch, Commissioner of the NYC Department of Sanitation. “With state-of-the-art snow fighting technology and the largest Sanitation Worker headcount in two decades, DSNY has never been more prepared to fight snow. We won’t stop until every street is safe and clear, and we urge all New Yorkers to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary to give our plows and spreaders the space they need to do their critical work.”

NYC Emergency Management has proactively activated the City’s Winter Weather Emergency Plan in response to the forecasted conditions. This includes conducting coordination calls with the National Weather Service and city and state agencies and utility partners, and bolstering staffing at the Emergency Operations Center, which is already operational due to the city’s ongoing asylum seeker operations. The administration announced that Alternate Side Parking Regulations will be suspended tomorrow, Tuesday, February 13, 2024. Payment at parking meters will remain in effect throughout the city.

As part of the Winter Weather Emergency Plan, the NYC Department of Sanitation (DSNY) will be issuing a Snow Alert and is pre-deploying over 700 salt spreaders to pretreat roadways ahead of the first snowflake and is prepared to dispatch plows in all sectors when more than two inches of snow accumulates. During a Snow Alert, the Department collaborates closely with NYC Emergency Management and the Department of Transportation to implement snow clearing protocols, adhering to the detailed snow plans established by each agency. DSNY will be tracking operations via its new Bladerunner 2.0 platform, allowing real-time adjustments as conditions require. Every street is on a route and, for the first time, every route can be dispatched at the same time.

While the NYC Department of Sanitation clears streets and bike lanes, property owners are responsible for clearing sidewalks. As a reminder, property owners, including restaurants with outdoor dining structures, may not push snow into the street, including bike lanes. This impedes snow clearing operations and is illegal. Snow may be moved against the building, to the curb line, or areas on private property. Sidewalks should be passable for all pedestrians, including a minimum 4-foot clear path, where possible. While property owners are not required to clear bus stops, the Department of Sanitation suggests that property owners clear a path from the sidewalk to the curb at the bus stop. The fine for the initial failure to clear sidewalks summons is $100 for the first offense, $150 for the second offense and $250 for the third offense.

Residential building owners are legally required to maintain indoor temperatures at 68 degrees when the temperatures fall below 55 degrees outside during the day and a minimum of 62 degrees indoors overnight, regardless of outdoor temperatures. If an apartment lacks appropriate heat, a tenant should first attempt to notify the building owner, managing agent or superintendent. If heat is not restored, the tenant should register an official complaint via 311. Tenants can call 311, visit 311 online at NYC.gov/311, or use the 311 mobile app (on Android and iOS devices) to file a complaint. Hearing-impaired tenants can register complaints via a Touchtone Device for the Deaf TDD at (212) 504-4115.

NYCEM urges all New Yorkers to prioritize their safety by remaining alert and well-informed, including with real-time updates by subscribing to Notify NYC and listening to news broadcasts for the latest weather information. NYCEM strongly encourages all New Yorkers to take proactive steps to ensure their own safety and support the city’s resilience:

NYCEM offers New Yorkers tips on staying safe before, during, and after winter storms at on.nyc.gov/winterweather.
Stay informed. Before and during an emergency, the city will send emergency alerts and updates to New Yorkers through various channels, including Notify NYC. Sign up for emergency notifications online or call 311. You can also follow @NotifyNYC on Twitter.
Allow for extra travel time and expect delays with little to no notice. Use public transportation whenever possible.
If you have to go outdoors, wear dry, warm clothing and cover exposed skin. Keep fingertips, earlobes, and noses covered. Wear a hat, hood, scarf, and gloves.
Shivering is an important first sign that the body is losing heat. Shivering is a signal to return indoors. Pedestrians should exercise caution and avoid slippery surfaces; some ice may not be visible. Wear sturdy boots that provide traction to reduce slipping. Use handrails when using stairs. Older New Yorkers and those with disabilities, access, and functional needs should take extra care outdoors to avoid slips and falls.
Be safe at work. Workers who spend a lot of time outdoors are at risk for cold-related health impacts. If you are an employer, implement safe work practices, provide appropriate protective equipment, and train workers on how to stay safe during cold and winter weather.
If you must drive, drive slowly. Vehicles take longer to stop on snow and ice than on dry pavement. Use major streets or highways for travel whenever possible. Have heightened awareness of cars, particularly when approaching or crossing intersections.
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.
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.
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/SevereWeather. 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

ADAMS ADMINISTRATION RELEASES SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH BILL OF RIGHTS, FURTHER ENSHRINING RIGHT TO REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH AND ABORTION CARE IN NYC

Enshrines Right to Dignified, Respectful, and Compassionate Sexual Reproductive Health Care for All

New York City Abortion Access Hub Has Served Nearly 3,500 People Since Launch, More Than 600 Patients Have Accessed No-Cost Medication Abortion at City’s Sexual Health Clinics

NYC Health + Hospitals’ Virtual ExpressCare Telehealth Abortion Service Allows Patients in NYC to Speak With Providers On-Demand via Video or Phone From Comfort of Own Home

NEW YORK – As the right to access abortion care has been stripped away from over one-third of U.S. women, New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the city is further enshrining its commitment to reproductive rights, releasing the Sexual and Reproductive Bill of Rights. This Bill of Rights defines health as inclusive of access to sexual health care, birth control, gender-affirming health care, and abortion services, and will help ensure that all patients in New York City are protected from discrimination and harassment related to their sexual and reproductive health care decisions. The Sexual and Reproductive Bill of Rights will be distributed to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene’s (DOHMH) network of health care providers, advocacy groups, and partner organizations across the city to share with patients.

“Two years ago, the Supreme Court stripped women of the right to control their own bodies, and since then, cities and states across the country have worked tirelessly to completely limit abortion access to Americans,” said Mayor Adams. “As much of the nation continues their attacks on abortion care, we won’t ever allow this right to be stripped away here in New York City. We are issuing a Sexual and Reproductive Health Bill of Rights today to do everything in our power to ensure abortion and reproductive health care remain available to residents and visitors alike. This is about protecting women’s choices and their freedoms.”

“New York City has acted to protect reproductive rights and has strengthened access to services through the Abortion Access Hub and other programs launched by DOHMH and NYC Health + Hospitals,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “With the release of the Sexual and Reproductive Health Bill of Rights, we are communicating clearly with providers all across the city about what is right and just in a health care environment. Patients and providers alike can now have more clarity in these care conversations and know that New York City stands with them at each step along the way.”

“While rights to reproductive health for women, transgender, and gender expansive people are eroded nationally, this administration is a leader in ensuring all New Yorkers receive necessary health care,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “This Sexual and Reproductive Health Bill of Rights will enshrine the right to comprehensive reproductive health and family planning, continuing the promise of ‘Women Forward NYC’ to help all women, including transgender and gender expansive New Yorkers, thrive.”

“Abortion care is health care, health care is a human right, and New Yorkers, and all Americans, have a right to exercise their rights by making health care decisions about their own bodies,” said DOHMH Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan. “Abortion remains legal in New York, but we know that protected rights are necessary, but not sufficient, to guarantee access to care. Knowing your rights and exercising these rights is just as important. That is why the city is launching the Sexual and Reproductive Health Bill of Rights and bringing additional abortion services online — to provide support that helps people navigate multiple barriers to care. Everyone deserves to receive reproductive health care in a safe, high-quality, dignified environment.”

“NYC Health + Hospitals is proud to offer safe and legal abortion care,” said Marisa Nádas, MD, MPH, reproductive health clinical lead, NYC Health + Hospitals, and associate medical director, Virtual ExpressCare. “By offering telehealth abortion services and patient navigation support to people seeking abortion care, as well as abortion care at all of our hospital-based clinics, we are overcoming many of the non-medical barriers people face in accessing care. We are committed to striving for reproductive justice for all New Yorkers.”

In 2022, in its Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the federal right to access safe, legal abortion care nationwide. Since that decision, New York City has introduced a range of services to protect and fulfill the local right to access abortion care. Since launching the New York City Abortion Access Hub in November 2022, more than 3,500 callers and over 790 chatters have been directed to reproductive health services and resources through NYC Health + Hospitals and providers throughout New York City:

More than a third of all callers request a Spanish-speaking navigator and a majority of callers identify as Hispanic or Latino.
A majority of callers shared that they make less than $25,000 a year.
Most callers live in New York City.
Over 600 callers reported living outside the state and more than a third of those callers were from Texas.

Anyone in need of abortion services or support in accessing care can receive referrals by calling 877-NYC-AHUB (877-692-2482). For those who might prefer to start the conversation over text, there is now a chat feature to connect them to a phone operator.

The city — alongside health care providers, patients, and dedicated supporters of reproductive care — has weathered ongoing attempts to restrict access to mifepristone, one of two drugs used for the past 23 years in medication abortion and has continued to support unfettered access to this safe and effective medication. In August 2022, Mayor Adams signed legislation enabling access to no cost medication abortion at DOHMH sexual health clinics. The service has expanded to the Jamaica and Central Harlem Sexual Health clinics after launching in Morrisania in January 2023. As a result, in 2023:

627 medication abortion services were provided at the city’s sexual health clinics,

Most patients were New York City residents, with residents of the Bronx and Queens representing half of all medication abortion visits, and
More than 60 percent of medication abortion patients were uninsured.

In October 2023, NYC Health + Hospitals launched telehealth abortion access through Virtual ExpressCare — becoming the first public health system in the nation to do so. Patients in New York City seeking abortion care can schedule a Virtual ExpressCare appointment to speak with a New York state-licensed health care professional by video or phone, on-demand, for an assessment and counseling. If clinically appropriate and prescribed, patients will be able to receive a medication abortion kit at their New York City address within a few days. This service is available seven days a week, between 9:00 AM and 9:00 PM, and will provide patients with access to safe, legal abortion care. Patients can access telehealth abortion care online or by calling (718) 360-8981. 

This effort comes of the heels 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, with the ambitious goal of becoming the most women-forward city in the United States. Supported through city dollars, private and public partnerships, academic institutions, and federal grant funding, the action 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.

MAYOR ADAMS LAUNCHES “CHINATOWN CONNECTIONS” PLAN TO ADD NEW PUBLIC SPACE AND IMPROVE TRAFFIC SAFETY IN CHINATOWN

Administration Will Partner With New York State’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative to Invest $56 Million in Chinatown

“Chinatown Connections” Will Kick Off With Public Engagement Period Starting This Month

Delivers on Key Commitment Made by Mayor Adams in This Year’s State of the City Address

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today launched “Chinatown Connections,” a joint city and state investment that will dramatically improve the public space in Chinatown through redesigning Park Row and Chatham/Kimlau Square — making the area safer, more-pedestrian friendly, and more welcoming to both residents and visitors. “Chinatown Connections” will bring together $44.3 million in city capital funding with $11.5 million from New York state’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative awards for a total project budget of $56 million. Building on an announcement in Mayor Adams’ State of the City address last month, “Chinatown Connections” furthers the Adams administration’s commitment to enhancing and expanding public space across the city.

“For far too long, Chinatown residents, neighbors, and tourists alike had to deal with confined public spaces and dangerous intersections at Chatham/Kimlau Square, but those days are coming to a close. Our $56 million joint investment with the state in ‘Chinatown Connections’ will allow us to reimagine the square with shortened street crossings, more public space, simpler intersections, and direct cyclist connections — making our streets even safer for all New Yorkers to share,” said Mayor Adams. “We’ll beautify Park Row, making it easier for New Yorkers and tourists to get from the foot of the Brooklyn Bridge to Chinatown and all the small businesses here, and we’ll give Chinatown the entrance it deserves with a new Welcome Gateway that honors this neighborhood’s rich cultural heritage. At every step of the way, we will work hand-in-hand with the local Chinatown community so that the project reflects what the community wants and needs from our city. This announcement is another step in our work to revitalize the future of Chinatown and reimagine the urban experience for all New Yorkers.”

“The state is not only committed to preserving the culture of the community but also investing in projects that enhance the livability, health and prosperity of communities to benefit residents, businesses, and tourists alike,” said Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez. “Today we celebrate the launch of three signature Chinatown Downtown Revitalization Initiative projects that together will re-envision Kimlau Square as a safe and attractive community destination, celebrate Chinatown’s local culture, and invite visitors back to Chinatown’s local restaurants and businesses. We thank Mayor Eric Adams for working together with the state and community and for investing an additional $44.3 million towards these key undertakings. I am confident these, now enhanced projects, along with the other eight DRI funded community projects, will ensure local residents witness a greater beneficial neighborhood impact.”

Reimagining Chatham/Kimlau Square

Currently, Chatham/Kimlau Square features a five-point intersection with complex traffic movements; this results in many conflict points, which endanger drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. This year, in consultation with the local Chinatown community, the administration will kick off a traffic study to inform redesigning Chatham/Kimlau Square to create a standard, four-way intersection, larger public space, shorter pedestrian crossings, and direct cyclist connections. The study will also evaluate the option of either keeping Park Row closed to private car traffic or reopening Park Row in the future with a redesigned Kimlau Square. The study will take into consideration both existing traffic conditions and future traffic conditions under congestion pricing. Following that study and a community engagement process, construction is scheduled to begin in 2027, with estimated completion in 2029. Approximately $5 million of the $11.5 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative award will go towards this redesign.

Kimlau Square

The five-point intersection currently at Chatham/Kimlau Square. Photo credit: New York City Economic Development Corporation

Beautifying the Park Row Connection to Chinatown

Park Row is a critical pedestrian and bike route connecting Lower Manhattan, Chinatown, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the new public space at the Brooklyn Bridge Arches. Starting this spring, the city will launch a Street Improvement Project on the Park Row connection to Chinatown, between Frankfort Street and Chatham/Kimlau Square. In consultation with the local community, the city will implement short-term improvements to enhance the pedestrian and bicyclist experience, including safety improvements, art interventions, new planters, and additional wayfinding and signage. In parallel, the city will engage with the local community to evaluate options for deploying $4 million of the $11.5 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative award for permanent improvements on Park Row. The project will begin with a community engagement period, and construction work will commence in 2024, with short-term improvements being installed throughout the year.

Creating a Chinatown Welcome Gateway

The city will also build a Chinatown Welcome Gateway, located in the vicinity of Chatham/Kimlau Square, finally giving one of New York City’s most historic districts the entrance it deserves. The Chinatown Welcome Gateway will commemorate the cultural heritage of the neighborhood and draw visitors to local businesses. The location, size, and design of the gateway will be informed by the traffic study, existing conditions assessment, and robust community engagement. The construction timeline for the Chinatown Welcome Gateway will depend on private fundraising to supplement $2.5 million of the $11.5 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative award.

This month, the city will convene a community working group of key stakeholders across Chinatown sectors to help guide the entire project design and implementation. The community working group is expected to convene at key milestones throughout an 18-month engagement process, and the public engagement process will expand to community board presentations and broader public meetings. These efforts build on three initial public workshops the city conducted with the Chinatown community last year.

“Since the beginning of this administration, we have been committed to making Chinatown a more livable, walkable community, with more and better public spaces for residents and visitors,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “From the Arches to Kimlau Square, we are working closely with local leaders and residents to ensure that these public spaces are by and for residents — prioritizing safety, comfort, and connection. With deep thanks to our state partners, we look forward to continuing our robust public outreach and delivering an exciting new public space for Chinatown.”

“‘Chinatown Connections’ advances the administration’s commitment to celebrating this area’s cultural heritage while making significant public safety and infrastructure investments benefitting its residents, small businesses, and visitors,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “Similar to our other neighborhood planning efforts, we are excited to kick off this work with a comprehensive, community-focused engagement process that will deliver transformative improvements to Kimlau Square.”

“‘Chinatown Connections’ is a city and state collaboration that will bring dramatic public realm improvements to Chinatown and public safety improvements to one of the busiest intersections in Manhattan,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation President & CEO Andrew Kimball. “Reimagining public spaces with pedestrian safety and outdoor amenities continues to be a top priority for the Adams administration, and we are looking forward to working with DOT and NYC Parks to revitalize this culturally significant area of Manhattan.”

“The ‘Chinatown Connections’ project exemplifies the city’s dedication to fostering equitable streets and welcoming public spaces in our effort to reimagine the public realm for years to come,” said New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “This ambitious project aims to revitalize busy neighborhood areas, including Park Row, Chatham Square, and Kimlau Plaza, improving the overall pedestrian experience, creating new bicycle connections, and dramatically enhancing street safety and connectivity at a major Manhattan crossing. I am pleased DOT was able to allocate $44 million in support of the effort to deliver this project, and I look forward to continued collaboration with the community, as well as our city and state agency partners, to further enrich Chinatown.”

“We are thrilled to participate in ‘Chinatown Connections,’ an inter-agency collaboration that aligns with the Adams administration’s commitment to enhance and expand public spaces,” said New York City Department of Parks and Recreation (NYC Parks) Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “This effort is designed to increase open spaces, create safer walkways, and redirect traffic to better safeguard pedestrians. We thrive on collaboration, involving community residents to be a part of projects such as this one at Kimlau Square, which will honor the rich cultural heritage of the Chinatown neighborhood. Through this project, our agencies are committed to ensuring safety, enhancing the aesthetics of the space, and supporting community events to bring visitors to the heart of Chinatown — through the beautification of Park Row and the redesign of Kimlau Square.”

“Public space is a not a luxury, but a necessity for all communities throughout the city,” said Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu. “Today, the Adams administration is making an unprecedented investment to transform public space in Chinatown that will not only improve traffic safety and create a vibrant space for local residents that honors the history and cultural fabric of the neighborhood, but that will make Kimlau Square a destination for visitors to enjoy and experience what the many wonderful local businesses have to offer.”

“More public realm enhancements like this mean greater neighborhood vitality and safety for residents and visitors across the city,” said “New” New York Executive Director B.J. Jones. “The partnership between the city, state, and community leaders makes this gateway a testament to our joint commitment to make the necessary investments to fuel New York’s economic resurgence.”

NYCEDC will be the lead agency responsible for the procurement, engagement, design, and construction processes. Additionally, NYCEDC will coordinate between NYC Parks, DOT, and the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs (DCLA). NYC Parks will lead the Memorial Arch restoration and DOT will lead the Park Row improvements and the new Kimlau intersection, plaza, and gateway. DCLA will facilitate the artist selection process for the Chinatown Welcome Gateway.

Understanding that public spaces are where communities are built, culture is fostered, and opportunities are created, Mayor Adams committed $375 million to creating new, vibrant public spaces in his 2023 State of the City address. To further that effort, he appointed Ya-Ting Liu as the city’s first-ever chief public realm officer and launched visionary projects in all five boroughs to create new public spaces, including the North Shore of Staten Island, Broadway Vision and Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, Broadway Junction in Brooklyn, the Met Hub in Queens, and new, world-class skateparks in the Bronx and Brooklyn. Mayor Adams also signed the country’s largest permanent outdoor dining program into law last year to create better, cleaner, and more accessible sidewalk and roadway cafes and significantly expanded open street programs during the holiday and summer seasons.

To keep the city’s public spaces clean and transform what it feels like to be outside in New York City, Mayor Adams and New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) Commissioner Jessica Tisch launched efforts to containerize 100 percent of businesses’ trash and all residential trash from buildings with nine or fewer units. Building on the progress made over the course of the past two years, last week, the city unveiled a new, automated, side-loading garbage truck and a new data-driven containerization strategy in the city’s next phase of its war on black trash bags. The city will expand its Harlem on-street containerization pilot and take steps to get every single black trash bag off of New York City streets.

“I am thrilled to see the city, state and the Chinatown community come together to transform Park Row and Kimlau Square,” said U.S. Representative Dan Goldman. “Manhattan’s Historic Chinatown is one of the oldest and most important Chinese-American communities in America and has long been a hub of cultural and economic activities. I am proud to see that the city is moving forward with this crucial investment to help revitalize this long-overlooked neighborhood. I look forward to working with the mayor, my fellow elected officials, government agencies, and the community to ensure an equitable and inclusive revitalization of Chinatown.”

“I am proud to have joined with this community in securing the largest State Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant ever, to support transformative projects like Chinatown Connections,” said New York State Senator Brian Kavanagh. “This project will dramatically improve the public space in Chinatown in the form of a redesigned Park Row and Chatham/Kimlau Square — making the area safer, more-pedestrian friendly, and more welcoming, and helping strengthen the economic and social fabric of our Chinatown neighborhood. I thank Mayor Adams, Secretary of State Rodriguez, Borough President Levine, Assemblymember Lee, Councilmember Marte, Congressman Goldman, Wellington Chen, Raymond Tsang and everyone from this community for the collaborative spirit that it takes to conceptualize a project like this, and move forward in such an iconic, heavily trafficked public space.”

“This development of Chinatown’s public spaces and pedestrian infrastructure will honor the community’s past and invest in its future. As a bonus, the Kimlau Square redesign will attract more tourists and their dollars to the neighborhood, which is still struggling to recover from the deep losses brought on by the pandemic,” said Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine. “I encourage everyone in Chinatown to participate in the public engagement process and help shape the outcome.”

“The Chinatown connections project is a visionary project aimed at addressing the many issues in our community that have affected pedestrians and vehicles for all too long,” said Raymond Tsang, president, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association. “With this project going forward from the support of the city and state government, our community will benefit from the improved traffic and pedestrian safety that it brings, and the tourists from near and far, to admire what a revitalized Chinatown has to offer.”

“Kimlau Square has historically been an important place — for open air markets or for the public to use the elevated train station,” said Wellington Chen, executive director, Chinatown Partnership. “It is also where we remember the veterans and honor those who served and paid the ultimate sacrifice as it is the vital key connection where streets converge. We look forward to having a better and proper setting for future commemorations and communal gatherings for generations to come.”

“Community Board 3 is very excited to plan for the renovation of historic Kimlau Square,” said Andrea Gordillo, chair, Manhattan Community Board 3. “The renovation of this gateway to Chinatown will make a great impact every day on the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists, and improve and enlarge the public space used by many Chinatown residents. Community members have long requested that the intersection be redesigned and aligned so residents can cross safely. The pathway from Park Row to the Brooklyn Bridge will unify the neighborhood and encourage the flow of residential traffic through a beautified and accessible street.”

“Today, we stand at the threshold of a new era for Chinatown and Lower Manhattan, united in our efforts to foster a safer, more connected and vibrant urban landscape,” said Tammy Meltzer, chair, Manhattan Community Board 1. “This project will do more than just enhance the function and aesthetics of our city streets. It serves as a profound act of reconnection and healing, beginning to knit back together a divide that tore apart the very fabric of our communities on 9/11. A vital part of that reconnection is creating space for community stakeholders for those who live, work, study and visit the area. The commitment for an inclusive community outreach process initiated by the city, signals a future crafted in collaboration with these important neighborhoods, ensuring that local voices and visions shape the path forward. I thank the vital community leaders who have moved this project forward, and Mayor Adams and Governor Hochul for investing in their vision. Together, we are not just redesigning a square that honors Chinese-American soldiers who lost their lives defending the United States; we are redefining the future.”

“We’re really excited to see investment in quality public space in Chinatown, especially in a major gateway to the neighborhood,” said Emily Jacobi, Manhattan organizer, Transportation Alternatives. “We know pedestrianization is a win for everyone — making our streets safer, our businesses thrive, and our communities stronger — and we hope to see more pedestrianization projects spread equitably across the neighborhood. Chinatown has some of the lowest car ownership rates in New York City, and we hope to see serious improvements all the way through Chinatown from Kimlau Square through Canal Street — the most dangerous street in the borough for pedestrians and a main connector into the neighborhood.”

About the Downtown Revitalization Initiative

Chinatown was the winner of round five of New York state’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative, a cornerstone of its economic development program, which transforms downtown neighborhoods into vibrant centers that offer a high-quality of life and are magnets for redevelopment, business, job creation, and economic and housing diversity. Led by the New York Department of State, with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal, and the New York state Energy Research and Development Agency, the Downtown Revitalization Initiative represents an unprecedented and innovative “plan-then-act” strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation and results in compact, walkable downtowns that are a key ingredient to helping New York state rebuild its economy from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to achieving the state’s bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles.

In the ﬁrst six years of the program, the state committed $700 million investing in 69 downtowns ripe for revitalization. Participating communities are nominated by the state’s 10 Regional Economic Development Councils based on the downtown’s potential for transformation. Each community is awarded $10 million to develop a downtown strategic investment plan and implement key catalytic projects that advance the community’s vision for revitalization and leverage additional private and public investments. More information on the Downtown Revitalization Initiative is available online.

MAYOR ADAMS LAUNCHES PROGRAM TO CREATE 1,500 PERMANENT AFFORDABLE HOMES FOR NEW YORKERS IN SHELTER

Innovative Program Will Help 1,500 Households With CityFHEPS Vouchers

Move Into Permanent Homes, Fast-Track 1,000 Through Emergency Declaration

New Approach to Nonprofit Partnerships Will Ensure

Long-Term Affordability and Stability for Tenants

Follows Adams Administration’s Record-Breaking Efforts to Connect

New Yorkers in Shelter to Permanent, Affordable Homes

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Social Services (DSS) Commissioner Molly Wasow Park today launched the Affordable Housing Services (AHS) initiative — a new effort that will create 1,500 permanent affordable homes for New Yorkers in the shelter system with City Fighting Homelessness and Eviction Prevention Supplement (CityFHEPS) vouchers. Through an emergency declaration issued today, DSS will fast-track 1,000 of those units

With 10,600 households with CityFHEPS vouchers currently in the city’s shelter system unable to find housing due to the city’s severe housing shortage, the program will create a new, much-needed, and scalable pathway out of shelter. Through the Affordable Housing Services program, the city will help 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. The new initiative represents another major step in the Adams administration’s efforts to create affordable homes across the entire city.

“Time and time again, our administration has taken action to help New Yorkers in our shelter system move into permanent affordable homes, and our strategies have proven effective,” said Mayor Adams. “As 10,000 households eligible for CityFHEPS are currently living in shelters, the Affordable Housing Services initiative will create over 1,500 much-needed permanent affordable homes for New Yorkers experiencing homelessness. And as we act now to connect New Yorkers to the homes they need, we will continue to advance our historic ‘City of Yes’ proposal to build housing in every neighborhood and advocate for Albany to truly meet the need.”

“Throughout this administration, we have reaffirmed that every New Yorker deserves a permanent home, and we continue to take consistent, innovative steps to make that aim a reality,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “Today’s announcement of the Affordable Housing Services initiative will help 1,500 individuals and families transition more quickly from shelter to stable housing and will give nonprofit providers new tools to secure leases to further assist their clients as they transition from shelter to housing. Thank you to DSS for their steadfast commitment and creative solutions as we all work together to help every New Yorker in need of a permanent home.”

“The Affordable Housing Services initiative is an important avenue for accelerating pathways to housing for shelter residents,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “This effort builds on the increases in permanent housing placements this administration has already facilitated and serves as an example of our ongoing commitment to secure affordable housing for New Yorkers.”

“DSS administers rental subsidies for more than 70,000 households, effectively making us one of the largest housing authorities in the country,” said DSS Commissioner Wasow Park. “After taking significant steps to expand access to city-funded rental assistance for households in shelter, we are pursuing bold housing solutions and leveraging social service dollars to create critical permanent housing opportunities for them. The emergency use of the Affordable Housing Services initiative will fast-track connections to deeply affordable housing for 1,000 households in shelter while positioning them for long-term stability. This initiative will also be instrumental in helping build on the vital progress we’ve made increasing permanent housing placements from shelter last year. We are also grateful for Comptroller Lander’s partnership in this critical effort as we work collaboratively to realize new and innovative ways to deliver for some of our most vulnerable New Yorkers.”

The emergency declaration issued today will allow DSS to fast-track the creation of 1,000 units of affordable housing by cutting down time required to register contracts with non-profit providers, ultimately allowing providers to quickly move voucher holders into affordable units that are ready for immediate occupancy. The 1,000 fast-tracked units will all use the AHS long-term leasing model and take advantage of new-to-market buildings and existing housing stock ready for clients to move into. The additional 500 units in the AHS pipeline will be acquired by non-profit providers.

In total, the city’s pipeline for the program will create 1,500 units of subsidized housing for households with CityFHEPS vouchers. DSS has already finalized contracts with various nonprofit providers to create subsidized housing for nearly 700 households in shelter that are eligible for CityFHEPS vouchers. More than 150 households have already been placed in permanent housing made available through the program in 2023. The program also includes the first-of-its-kind project, done in partnership with Riseboro Community Partnership, to convert the former JFK Hilton Hotel to affordable housing.

The new initiative represents another major step in the Adams administration’s efforts to create affordable homes across the entire city, especially for families exiting the shelter system. In Fiscal Year (FY) 2023, the administration connected more New Yorkers to permanent housing using CityFHEPS vouchers than in any other year in the program’s history — building on a series of reforms the Adams administration has implemented to expand access to vouchers , eliminate the 90-day length-of-stay requirement for New Yorkers in shelter to be eligible for the vouchers, expand their use so voucher holders can obtain permanent housing anywhere in New York State, and further streamline the program with technological improvements for voucher holders.

In addition to setting records last year for creating affordable homes and helping New Yorkers move in, the Adams administration broke new ground in FY23 by financing the highest number of supportive homes in city history as well as the highest number of homes for New Yorkers who formerly experienced homelessness in a fiscal year, since tracking began in 2014. These signs of significant progress also follow bold steps to help voucher holders obtain affordable housing more quickly by eliminating credit checks for CityFHEPS voucher holders applying for affordable housing and make permanent affordable homes available for voucher holders more quickly.

“With more people in shelter and housing more expensive than ever, we need new, creative solutions to help people move into housing they can afford,” said New York City Comptroller Brad Lander. “Props to DSS Commissioner Molly Wasow Park and the Adams administration for coming up with this innovative and urgently-needed program — and for working with us to ensure it makes wise use of public dollars, addresses the short-term crisis but also builds toward longer-term solutions, and helps homeless New Yorkers find their way home.”

“For nearly 20 years, Acacia Network has been proud to partner with the City of New York to address some of our most pressing quality-of-life issues — from homelessness and housing affordability to the more recent COVID-19 and migrant crises,” said Lymaris Albors, CEO, Acacia Network. “This announcement by Mayor Adams and the Department of Social Services is a testament to the power of multi-sector collaboration and the value that non-profit providers bring to the table, and we look forward to continuing to work together by connecting homeless individuals and families to safe, permanent housing.”

“Housing is the bedrock of families, individuals, and community well-being,” said Debbian Fletcher-Blake, CEO, VIP Community Services. “We applaud Mayor Adams and Commissioner Park for their vision to invest in 1,500 affordable housing units for shelter residents through DSS’s Affordable Housing Services program. This innovative program represents a significant step in addressing homelessness in New York City. It will provide a direct pathway to equitable opportunities for low-income individuals. We are excited at the prospect of improving access to permanent and stable affordable housing in New York City.”

“A long-term solution to homelessness has and will always start with a pathway to permanent, affordable housing,” said Scott Short, CEO, RiseBoro Community Partnership. “We’re honored to be a part of that solution through the ongoing conversion of JFK Hilton. Thank you to the mayor and the city for taking this very important step.”

MAYOR ADAMS DELIVERS TESTIMONY TO NEW YORK STATE SENATE FINANCE AND ASSEMBLY WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEES

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today provided testimony to the New York State Senate Finance and Assembly Ways and Means Committees, focusing on the administration’s Albany agenda to advance working-class families through extending mayoral accountability for four years, granting the city authority to shut down illegal smoke shops and creating more affordable housing. Finally, Mayor Adams outlined the city’s fiscal challenges, including state funding for asylum seekers and increasing New York City’s debt limit.

Below are Mayor Adams’ remarks as prepared for delivery:

Thank you, Chair Krueger, and in her absence my longtime Brooklyn colleague Chair Weinstein; Cities Chairs Sepúlveda and Braunstein; Local Government Chairs Martinez and Thiele; and members of the Assembly Ways and Means and Senate Finance committees.

I am Eric Adams, mayor of New York City. I’m proud to be here today with Jacques Jiha, director of our Office of Management and Budget. As I said in my recent State of the City, our city has always been about what is possible. It’s a place where you can start a business, start a family, and make your mark.

Two years ago, we came into office with a clear mission: to keep that American dream burning bright by protecting public safety, rebuilding our economy, and making our city more livable. Twenty-four months later, we are seeing real results. Crime is down, jobs are up, and every day we are delivering for working-class New Yorkers.

You have been our partners throughout this work, and to keep New York City on its upward trajectory, we must continue that strong partnership.

Protecting public safety means granting New York City the power to shut down illegal smoke shops, so New Yorkers can walk down the street without being bombarded by illegal shops that operate outside the law and put young New Yorkers at risk.

Rebuilding our economy means creating homes New Yorkers can afford, so working-class families can earn a living, raise their kids, and make it in the greatest city in the world.

It also means preparing our young people to succeed. Reading and math test scores are up, and we are outpacing the state, but if we don’t extend mayoral accountability, we risk going backwards.

Making this city more livable means investing in cleaner streets and more vibrant public spaces. To continue those investments, we need financial support to cover the costs of the asylum seeker humanitarian crisis.

These are urgent needs that support working-class families in New York City, and our administration is asking for your help.

But first, I want to thank you for your partnership in Getting Stuff Done for New Yorkers last year. Thanks to your leadership, we will preserve more affordable housing as a result of J-51 benefits; we were able to make substantial investments in our young people’s education; and we were able to defray some of the substantial costs associated with managing the asylum seeker humanitarian crisis.

New York City is proud to uphold our legacy as a city of immigrants. And we are proud that we have demonstrated leadership and compassion, when so many others showed only cruelty.

Over the past 22 months, we have provided more than 173,900 asylum seekers with food, medical care, and shelter. Of those, we’ve helped more than 107,500 — more than 60 percent — take the next step on the path to self-sufficiency. We have helped tens of thousands file Temporary Protected Status, asylum, and work authorization applications, bringing them one step closer to living a more stable life.

However, right now, there are more than 66,200 asylum seekers still in the city’s care. When you add in the 55,000 longtime New Yorkers in the city’s DHS system and well as others, that means we have close to three times the number of people in our shelter system than when we came into office. And it all comes at a great cost to our city.

In November, due to the growing asylum seeker humanitarian crisis, sunsetting federal stimulus that was used to support vital programs, and the cost of funding long-ignored labor contracts, we faced a historically large $7.1 billion budget gap.

We are legally required to balance Fiscal Years ’24 and ’25 in January. So we developed our financial plan without relying on federal assistance because, after many trips to Washington, D.C., I realized that the federal cavalry was not coming to the rescue. We did not procrastinate.

We knew that the faster we made the painful, but necessary, decisions, the faster we could stabilize the city’s finances. We frontloaded our implementation of the plan, which includes multiple rounds of savings through our Plan to Eliminate the Gap, or PEG, a hiring freeze, and a freeze on other-than-personal-services spending, among other things.

These decisions proved to be effective, resulting in a record level of $6.6 billion in PEG savings over Fiscal Years ’24 and ’25 — in the November and January Plans.

And we accomplished all this without layoffs, raising taxes, or major disruptions to city services.

Our savings include $1.7 billion that we achieved by taking steps to manage the cost of providing services for new arrivals by: reducing daily household costs, negotiating and renegotiating rates, and rebidding contracts and shelters run by for‑profit vendors, implementing intensive case management support to help asylum seekers reach their final destinations and leave our care, and transitioning away from a humanitarian relief center model of care to non‑profit service providers.

And in January, after a careful review of savings initiatives we implemented in November, we restored funding for critical initiatives protecting public safety, public spaces, and young people.

While these actions are important to New Yorkers, they represent less than three percent of the savings we achieved over the two years.

But I need to be crystal clear — although we have stabilized our financial situation through hard work and advanced planning, we are not out of the woods. While we appreciate the commitment the governor made last year to cover one-third of the city’s asylum seeker costs, this was based on the premise that the city, the state, and the federal government would split the costs three ways. The federal government has only committed $156 million — the vast majority of which we have yet to receive because of a complicated reimbursement process.

Despite our efforts, we cannot assume they will give us any more. While we are deeply grateful for the $1 billion that was appropriated in this year’s state’s budget, the midyear adjustment of nearly $900 million, and the $1.1 billion in shelter costs proposed in in the governor’s Executive Budget, we are still shouldering the largest share of asylum seeker costs.

In our budget, we assume that the state will meet its commitment to cover one-third of $10.6 billion in migrant costs over Fiscal Years ’23 through ’25. As of the governor’s Executive Budget, the state’s commitment to the city is just over $3 billion — or roughly 28 percent — which is $400 million short.

This, along with $200 million in budget hits like the Distressed Hospitals Fund sales tax intercept and school aid reduction, grows our Fiscal Year ’25 gap by $600 million.

New Yorkers are already carrying most of the asylum seeker costs. It is wrong to ask them to do more, and it puts our city in a precarious position. Today, we are asking the state to increase its commitment and cover at least 50 percent of our costs.

Next, when it comes to our schools, we strongly support the governor’s four-year extension of mayoral accountability. Mayoral accountability allows us to make much-needed systemic changes quickly, efficiently, and equitably. Under the current system, the buck stops with me, and you’ve seen that.

Thanks to mayoral accountability, we have improved reading and math test scores over the last two years, outpacing the state, while closing racial disparities.

We also launched New York City Reads, a nation-leading curriculum that teaches our kids the fundamentals of reading. This is more than a curriculum change — it is a reading revolution.

New York City Reads is already being implemented in over 90 percent of our early childhood system and across nearly half of our K-5 classes. And just last month, Governor Hochul announced that she is following our model and bringing the science of reading to every school district statewide.

Without mayoral accountability, our plan would have encountered months, if not years, of delay, which our families cannot afford.

Mayoral accountability allowed us to launch a first-in-the-nation systemwide dyslexia screening program to make sure no child falls through the cracks, launch gifted and talented programs in every neighborhood, and hire full-time mental health professionals for every school.

Prior to mayoral accountability, high school graduation rates stagnated at 50 percent — they are now over 80 percent. Again, all of this is possible because of mayoral accountability.

For the first time ever, New York City is being led by two people who are the products of our city’s public schools. Chancellor David Banks and I know that our public schools can change lives and produce the leaders of tomorrow. And mayoral accountability will allow us to continue to put that firsthand knowledge into practice.

We are also keeping families engaged and at the table to make sure their voices are heard. From regular town halls to parent meetings, Chancellor Banks and I are making sure that we hear directly from the families we are serving. Please let us continue to grow test scores and help our students so they don’t fall backwards without mayoral accountability.

In addition to having a good education, every child has to have a safe, clean place to rest their head at night.

I know what it feels like to worry about losing your home. As a young man in South Jamaica, Queens, my siblings and I carried trash bags filled with clothes to school, because our mom was worried that we would be forced onto the streets without warning and wouldn’t have a change of clothing. No New Yorker should have to experience that.

That is why we have proposed a bold affordable housing agenda. We have already taken steps to combat the housing and affordability crisis. We have financed a record number of new affordable units, housing for the formerly homeless, and supportive homes this past calendar year; connected a record number of New Yorkers to affordable housing; and proposed the most pro-housing reforms in the history of our city’s zoning code with our “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity” plan. But we still need Albany’s help.

This session, we are calling for: a new affordable housing tax incentive, a pathway to legalize safe, existing basement and cellar apartments, incentives for office conversions, and lifting the cap on density for new construction.

We are also limited in how much more the city can borrow to fund our significant infrastructure needs. If we run out of room to borrow, that limits our ability to build new schools, maintain our roads, and electrify our buildings amid the climate crisis. The governor’s support for increasing the Transitional Finance Authority’s borrowing power to $36 billion is a step in the right direction to build a safer, cleaner New York City.

Finally, we agree with Governor Hochul and so many of our elected partners on the importance of keeping New Yorkers safe. But people need to feel safe, too. New Yorkers should not have to worry about crime and their quality of life. And they shouldn’t have to worry about illegal smoke shops selling cannabis to their children.

Legal cannabis remains the right choice for our city and our state, but New Yorkers are fed up with these illegal storefronts and their unlawful business practices. We need you to grant us the authority to inspect and permanently shut down these shops. Give us the proper authority, and we will get the job done.

To conclude, the governor’s Executive Budget is a good first step in this year’s legislative process. We share many priorities and look forward to working with her administration and the Legislature to achieve these goals and improve lives of New Yorkers now, and for generations to come.

Thank you, and I look forward to answering your questions.

MAYOR ADAMS AND GOVERNOR MURPHY CELEBRATE NEW YORK NEW JERSEY SELECTION AS HOST FOR BIGGEST SPORTING EVENT IN WORLD HISTORY: FIFA WORLD CUP 26™ FINAL

Region to Host Total of Eight Matches Throughout Tournament, Including Final on July 19, 2026

WATCH: Governor Murphy, Mayor Adams Celebrate Historic Milestone for New York New Jersey Region

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy celebrated today’s announcement that the Host Region of New York New Jersey (NYNJ) was awarded the rights 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. The match schedule — including dates and locations for each match — was announced by FIFA today.

“The FIFA World Cup 26 Final will be a generation-defining moment for New York New Jersey, and there’s no better place to host the world’s biggest game than the world’s biggest stage,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “New York New Jersey is ready for North America to be the center of the soccer world, and the history we’ll be making in 2026 will create lifetime memories for fans, provide new opportunities for our communities, infuse billions into our economy, and help shape our region and propel it forward for decades to come.”

“As an advocate for this region, and a lifelong soccer fan, I am thrilled that FIFA chose to place their trust in New York New Jersey to host the historic FIFA World Cup 26 Final,” said New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our entire region; hosting the Final provides NYNJ an unparalleled platform to brilliantly showcase what we stand for — diversity, equality, access, and inclusion.”

FIFA World Cup 26™ will be the biggest sporting event ever — three Host Countries, 16 Host Cities, 48 teams, and 104 matches will unite an entire continent to showcase a momentous new tournament format. With more countries, cities, teams, and games, FIFA World Cup 26™ will be the most inclusive tournament ever, engaging millions of fans in-person at 16 unique stadiums, as well as billions of viewers worldwide. The tournament boasts an impressive 39-day duration, with the opening match taking place on June 11, 2026. The event will culminate with the Final at New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium) on July 19, 2026, complemented by unprecedented fan experiences throughout the NYNJ region. New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium) will host eight total matches throughout the tournament.

Beyond the historic significance, hosting the tournament will be tremendously beneficial to the region. 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 for the NYNJ region, and to support over 14,000 jobs. Moreover, it is expected that the tournament will bring over 1 million visitors to the region, roughly half of whom will be non-ticketholders.

Leadership from both New York and New Jersey have worked tirelessly and seamlessly together to put the region on display and showcase its world-class hosting credentials. With support from partners and stakeholders, NYNJ has proven more than capable of handling logistics, safety, and event execution throughout the tournament and for the Final.

“This is a memorable day for New York New Jersey,” said Bruce Revman and Lauren LaRusso, co-host city managers, FIFA World Cup 26™ NYNJ Host Committee. “Our region’s world-class venues, transportation accessibility, and iconic cultural attractions will deliver the ultimate fan and player experience. This will be an epic celebration throughout our diverse and vibrant community. We cannot wait to welcome the world and show off all that we have to offer.”

In celebration of this milestone, landmarks across the region, including the Empire State Bulding, One World Trade Center, MetLife Stadium, New York City Hall, Madison Square Garden, One Vanderbilt, One Bryant Park, America Dream, the Javits Center, 425 Park Avenue, Empire Outlets, One Five One, and Sven will light up in Lady Liberty green this evening.

Fans interested in pre-registering for FIFA World Cup 26™ tickets can do so at online. Pre-registrations for hospitality package information are also available at online.

Learn more about FIFA World Cup 26™ matches being held in NYNJ on the Host Committee’s website, on Instagram, on X (formerly Twitter), on Facebook, and on TikTok.

For the latest FIFA World Cup 26™ information, please visit the FIFA World Cup 26™ website. For media representatives wishing to stay up-to-date on all things 2026, please register via the FIFA Media Hub.

Consistent with stadiums in other Host Cities, MetLife Stadium will adopt a new venue name for FIFA World Cup 26™, New York New Jersey Stadium.

MAYOR ADAMS TAKES STEPS TO HELP SUPPORT WORKING FAMILIES, EXPANDS PAID PARENTAL, FAMILY LEAVE FOR NON-UNION CITY EMPLOYEES

Builds on “Women Forward NYC,” $43 Million Investment

With Ambitious Goal of Making NYC Most Women-Forward City in U.S.

Adams Administration Bolsters Efforts to Retain
Top Talent, Provide High-Quality Services for New Yorkers

Strong Fiscal Management Allows Adams Administration to Double Paid Parental Leave,

From Six to 12 Weeks, Offer up to 12 Weeks of Paid Family Leave for Non-Union Employees

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today took another step to support working-class families and make city government more family-friendly for thousands of employees by expanding both paid parental and family leave for non-union city workers. The effort will bolster the Adams administration’s efforts to retain top talent within the city’s workforce as it continues to provide high-quality services to New Yorkers. The Adams administration will double paid parental leave for non-union employees, from six to 12 weeks, and provide 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 will impact over 10,000 municipal employees and make the City of New York more competitive with municipalities and 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. Today’s announcement also builds on the 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.

“My mother worked multiple jobs and raised six kids on her own in New York City. The city didn’t do its part to help support our working-class family, but this administration will not continue the same mistakes of the past,” said Mayor Adams. “Expanding parental leave for city workers and paid leave for those with a sick family member are not only important changes to retain the talent that keeps our city moving — they are the right things to do to ensure our administration continues to help support the average working-class family in this city. Taking the time to care for a newborn baby or an aging parent should not be a luxury for the privileged few, and it should never mean risking your livelihood. With all the work our administration has done to support city workers, expanded paid parental and family leave makes New York City more competitive with just about any major city across the country, marking another massive step towards our ambitious goal of making New York the most women-forward city in America. With this change, the next Dorothy Mae Adams will have a chance to give back to her city without struggling to raise a family.”

“To deliver on a Working’s People Agenda, the Adams administration is putting working people first and transforming the workplace to meet the realities families are facing,” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “Whether it is a new parent being there for their child or taking care of a loved one in need, families deserve to be together for life’s most important moments. With this decision, our administration is reaffirming our commitment to making sure all families have the benefits needed to thrive in an ever changing, modern workplace.”

“Our city team is comprised of outstanding members who work tirelessly to ensure that this administration’s vision translates to real benefits for hardworking New Yorkers,” said Chief Advisor Ingrid P. Lewis-Martin. “This expansion of paid parental and family leave will help us keep the best and the brightest delivering for our city, and it will make sure that our public servants can care for themselves and their loved ones — especially in critical stages of their lives. Our team should have the benefit of caring for and nurturing their newest family members, our future, during this most precious time.”

“New York City’s municipal workforce is the best in the country, and we are committed to delivering them the benefits they deserve as they deliver for working-class New Yorkers,” said Chief of Staff Camille Joseph Varlack. “Beyond helping us retain city workers, expanding paid parental and family leave will ensure that the people who serve this city can take care of themselves and their loved ones, particularly at formative moments of their lives.”

“We deeply value every person that is part of team New York City,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “Today’s personnel order will impact more than 10,000 city workers, expanding their access to paid parental and family leave. It strengthens our workforce when we can act to support the family units that support them. Whether you are a new parent or an adult child acting as a caregiver to your older adult parent or loved one, your New York City family stands with you on your journey.”

“By setting record job numbers and leading the nation on gender equity through ‘Women Forward NYC,’ the Adams administration is ensuring New York City remains accessible for working families, including the city employees who have worked tirelessly in service of all New Yorkers,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “The benefits of paid parental and paid family leave are well-established, and I am so thrilled that these new policies will bolster the health and economic security of our municipal workforce and their families.”

“Paid parental and family leave is more than just an added bonus for employees, it’s a genuine show of care for people,” said New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services Commissioner Dawn M. Pinnock. “City employees dedicate their careers to serving New Yorkers, and they deserve the ability to extend care to their families during major life events, like having a child or caring for an ill family member. Thanks to Mayor Adams’ leadership, we’re committed to prioritizing their well-being and improving their quality of life.”

As part of this new policy, non-union city employees will be able to receive up to 12 weeks of fully-paid parental leave. Additionally, employees will be enrolled in the New York State Paid Family Leave program, something hundreds of thousands of union employees of the City of New York already have access to, and be eligible for up to 12 weeks of job-protected, paid time off to care for seriously ill family members— up to $1,150 per week, per the state’s 2024 benefits plan. The paid family leave benefit will be funded by an employee payroll deduction of approximately $13.00 per paycheck. The city’s expanded parental leave policy will take effect immediately, while the paid family leave will take effect once these employees are enrolled in the State Paid Family Leave program, which will take approximately 90 days.

Released last week, “Women Forward NYC” 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. Specifically, the action plan commits the Adams administration to leading the way on gender equity, incorporating more women-focused programming, planning, and partnerships to better serve and support women in the workforce across the city.

Today’s announcement also follows targeted and effective steps taken by the Adams administration to produce a balanced Fiscal Year 2025 Preliminary Budget. With responsible and effective fiscal management — including steps to put migrants on the path to self-sufficiency and reduce per diem costs of managing a national humanitarian crisis — the administration closed a $7 billion budget gap, despite federal COVID-19 stimulus funding drying up, expenses from labor contracts this administration inherited after being unresolved for years, and the growing costs of the asylum seeker crisis.

MAYOR ADAMS TAKES MAJOR STEPS TO ADVANCE ‘DINING OUT NYC,’ NATION'S LARGEST OUTDOOR DINING PROGRAM

Final Rules Offer Clear Guidance to Restaurant Owners, Expands Access to Safe, Clean Outdoor Dining in All Five Boroughs

Program Applications to Open in March, First Approved Dining Out NYC Setups Expected to Be On City Streets This Summer

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, and Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu today released the final rules for the city’s permanent outdoor dining program, “Dining Out NYC.” Offering clear guidance for restaurant owners as they work to create new set-ups before the program’s launch in March, the final rules prioritize equity, expanding access to safe, clean outdoor dining in all five boroughs. The rules were finalized following a robust public outreach and engagement campaign, led by DOT and the New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS).

Dining Out NYC represents one of the most significant efforts of the last decade to reimagine the city’s streetscape to support all New Yorkers and small restaurants while creating vibrant public spaces that improve quality of life and continue to accelerate the city’s economic recovery. The new program draws on lessons learned from the temporary outdoor dining program created during the COVID-19 pandemic, which saved 100,000 jobs across the city but led to quality-of-life issues as a subset of restaurant owners were unable to maintain loosely regulated outdoor dining setups.

“Between Dining Out NYC, our campaign to get trash bags off of New York City streets, our efforts to remove scaffolding that has been up for far too long, and the hundreds of millions we’re investing in public realm projects across the city, we’re fundamentally transforming what it feels like to be outside in New York,” said Mayor Adams. “As we build the largest outdoor dining program in the country from the ground-up, we must center our efforts in equity to make sure every New Yorker in every borough and every neighborhood has the opportunity to enjoy our city.”

“The largest outdoor dining program in the country is here,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “A transformative effort to reimagine our streetscape and support our small businesses at the same time, Dining Out NYC will create inviting, vibrant, attractive, and safe outdoor dining setups that work for restaurants and work for New York City. We can’t wait to see the whole city dining al fresco in style this summer.”

“Outdoor dining has activated our streets, breathing new life into our public spaces and creating lively gathering spaces,” said DOT Commissioner Rodriguez. “Diners can now enjoy the atmosphere of our city while supporting our local small businesses. Through the finalized rules that incorporate community and local businesses feedback, Dining Out NYC will build on the lessons learned during the pandemic to improve safety and quality of life — while still allowing for creative, flexible, and beautiful setups. We look forward to the rollout of New York City’s new and historic permanent outdoor dining program.”

“Outdoor dining saved nearly 100,000 jobs during the peak of the pandemic, and fundamentally changed the way we view our city streets,” said SBS Commissioner Kevin D. Kim. “Since then, we’ve created best practices from real-world experiences, and are now ready to make the outdoor dining revolution permanent. SBS is eager to work alongside our partners at DOT to ensure that Dining Out NYC creates the largest — and greatest — outdoor dining scene in the world.”

“This administration has found a way to continue outdoor dining in New York City while prioritizing cleanliness,” said New York City Department of Sanitation Commissioner Jessica Tisch. “Under these rules, New Yorkers will be asking for a table, and the rats will be saying, ‘Check please!’”

“Outdoor dining was a lifeline during the pandemic, creating hope for the future of the city when it wasn’t always so easy to come by,” said Chief Public Realm Officer Liu. “Now it’s time for the program to mature; these new ‘rules of the road’ will help solidify outdoor dining as a permanent part of our landscape, while banishing many of the negatives. Restaurant owners, it’s your turn! Please sign up! Help us beautify outdoor dining for everyone who lives and works in this spectacular city.”

“Once again, New York City is showing its commitment to making spaces more hospitable to humans and less hospitable to rats,” said Director of Citywide Rodent Mitigation Kathy Corradi. “The Dining Out NYC program incorporates both the design and management elements that support a rat-free outdoor dining program. Congratulations to DOT, the Public Realm team, and all New Yorkers.”

“Dining Out NYC demonstrates the Adams administration’s significant efforts to revitalize the city’s streetscape and do so safely and responsibly,” said “New” New York Executive Director B.J. Jones. “This initiative will make this great city even more welcoming across the five boroughs as people live, work, play — and dine here!”

Today’s released final rules outline requirements for a safe, clean outdoor dining program, while providing restaurant owners with the flexibility to develop creative outdoor dining setups that are appropriate for their establishments. Final program rules include clear design requirements; siting criteria on where outdoor dining setups can be located in relation to other street features, like subway entrances, fire hydrants, and more; and the types of materials that can be used in outdoor setups. They also require that the setups preserve clear sidewalk paths and emergency roadway lanes — including water-filled, rat-resistant protective barriers for roadway setups —– and use easily moveable furniture and coverings. Ultimately, the final rules will create a lighter-weight outdoor dining experience with lines of sight, as compared to the fully-enclosed shacks of the temporary, COVID-19-era program.

Before 2020, outdoor dining in New York City was permitted exclusively on the sidewalk, and almost only within Manhattan. Under Dining Out NYC, outdoor dining will be expanded citywide, permitted year-round on the sidewalk and, from April 1^st to November 29^th, in the roadway. The new program creates an equitable, accessible fee structure for participating restaurants, with rates varying by location and setup size as codified by local law, and with significantly lower fees than those under the previous sidewalk café program. In the pre-pandemic program, run by the New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, sidewalk cafés south of 96^th Street in Manhattan paid $40 per square foot, while the rest of the city paid $30. The new program expands eligibility to more parts of the city and significantly reduces fees for cafes everywhere, with cafes outside Manhattan and above 125^th Street paying 67 to 80 percent less, and cafes below 125^th Street in Manhattan paying 22 to 75 percent less.

With the rules now finalized, in March, DOT will launch a streamlined online application portal where restaurants can apply to participate in Dining Out NYC. A restaurant’s outdoor dining setup will need to comply with the program’s design requirements within 30 days of their application approval. On this timeline, the first approved Dining Out NYC setups will hit New York City streets in the summer of 2024. DOT will notify all restaurants now participating in the temporary program to submit applications for the permanent program through an extensive in-person and digital outreach campaign. Restaurants that did not participate in the temporary Open Restaurants Program are also welcome to apply for Dining Out NYC.

“Outdoor dining saved thousands of restaurants and 100,000 jobs during the pandemic, while creating a more social and economically vibrant streetscape,” said Andrew Rigie, executive director, and Robert Bookman, counsel, New York City Hospitality Alliance. “It’s been a long road, with lots of consideration and compromise by many stakeholders to develop a more standardized and sustainable outdoor dining system. We now look forward to working with the city of New York and restaurants across the five boroughs as they transition from the pandemic-era Open Restaurants program into the new Dining Out NYC alfresco system.”

“After several years under a temporary program, New Yorkers finally have rules to govern the future of outdoor dining,” said Maulin Mehta, New York director, Regional Plan Association. “The new program balances business and community needs to improve our streets and give all neighborhoods an opportunity to enjoy alfresco dining. We are excited for this evolution in our streets and congratulate Mayor Adams, Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu, Commissioner Rodriguez, NYC Council and all the city staff, advocates and business leaders that helped make this program a reality.”

“Today, with the release of these highly anticipated rules, New York City takes a monumental step towards reclaiming its streets and reimagining the possibilities of our public spaces,” said Jesse Lazar, associate executive director, American Institute of Architects New York. “For years now, we championed a permanent outdoor dining program, envisioning a city where vibrant structures replace parking lanes, where the hum of conversation mingles with the sounds of the city, and where greater access to businesses is made available to New Yorkers of all abilities. We thank Mayor Adams and Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu for their leadership on this program, as well as Commissioner Rodriguez, the New York City Council, and all the staff, business leaders, and advocates that helped bring this program to fruition.”

“New Yorkers love curbside dining! Now, with these rules, the already popular program can grow into an equitable and well-managed fixture of New York City culture,” said Jackson Chabot, director of advocacy and organizing, Open Plans. “This is the future Open Plans is working towards — where the curblane is part of dynamic, accessible public space for eating, drinking, meeting friends, and doing business. We thank Mayor Adams and Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu for their leadership, and congratulate Commissioner Rodriguez, the New York City Council, fellow advocates, and everyday New Yorkers on this latest step toward reimagining our streets for everyone, everyday.”

“We are thrilled to have a permanent outdoor dining program in place; this framework will ensure the long term growth of dining establishments which are crucial to neighborhood economies throughout the five boroughs,” said Tim Laughlin, president, Lower East Side Partnership. “Instituting a more coordinated approach to use of the roadway will ensure positive amenities for merchants, residents, and tourists alike.”

“The outdoor dining program put parking to a higher purpose, saving 100,000 jobs in the process and inviting New Yorkers into our largest public space — our streets,” said Danny Harris, executive director, Transportation Alternatives. “We’re excited to see the temporary program become a permanent part of New York City’s landscape. As the program continues to serve our city and support our small businesses, we’ll keep fighting for a full, year-round program in all five boroughs.”

“Outdoor dining provides an even greater opportunity for everyone to enjoy Downtown Brooklyn’s wide range of culinary options while also enjoying our dynamic neighborhood,” said Regina Myer, president, Downtown Brooklyn Partnership. “Dining Out NYC provides clear guidelines for our local eateries to develop their outdoor offerings and create a clean, safe environment for patrons to enjoy their food. We look forward to Dining Out in NYC!”

“The much-anticipated final rules for Dining Out NYC solidifies New York’s commitment to revitalizing our public spaces, supporting our vital restaurant industry, and ensuring accessibility for all,” said the Alliance for Public Space Leadership. “Continuing to prioritize clear guidance and community engagement is crucial for this program’s growth and success and the Alliance for Public Space Leadership will continue to work with stakeholders to ensure those goals are met. We’re confident that Dining Out NYC will create vibrant, inviting outdoor dining experiences that benefit both businesses and residents, fostering a more prosperous and inclusive city for everyone. We thank Mayor Adams, the City Council, Commissioner Rodriguez, and particularly New York Public Realm Officer, Ya-Ting Liu, for their continued leadership for this incredible program.”

MAYOR ADAMS UNVEILS NEW ANTI-TRASH TECHNOLOGY, LAUNCHES NEXT PHASE OF CITY’S WAR ON TRASH

Administration Unveils New Trash Collection Truck Four Years Ahead of Schedule, Allowing for On-Street Containers at Large Residential Buildings

Mayor Announces New Data-Driven Strategy to Identify Best Containers for Buildings of Different Sizes

Manhattan Community Board 9 Will Be City’s First Fully-Containerized District Next Year

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) Commissioner Jessica Tisch today made two major announcements that will help get all of New York City’s trash off the streets and into secure, rodent-resistant containers, once and for all. The two announcements — a new, automated, side-loading garbage truck and a new data-driven containerization strategy — taken together represent the largest single turning point in the ongoing effort to make New York City the cleanest major city in the United States, and affirm a commitment in 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. Mayor Adams also announced that, thanks to today’s new announcements, Manhattan Community Board 9 will be the first district with 100 percent of its trash containerized and serviced next year. These announcements follow new data in the Preliminary Mayor’s Management Report showing that the city’s streets are getting cleaner.

“The data is clear: Under our administration, New York City’s streets are cleaner. And as of this fall, thanks to the bold steps we have taken, a full 70 percent of New York City’s black bags will be off our streets and put into containers — but we’re not stopping there,” said Mayor Adams. “The new garbage truck we’re unveiling today — four years ahead of schedule — represents the future of New York City garbage collection. It means we’ll be able to containerize trash from our large residential buildings, something people didn’t believe would be possible in our dense city. And thanks to that truck and our commitment to turning our streets from mean to clean, residents of Manhattan’s Community Board 9 will be the first in the city to experience our streets free of every single black bag.”

“Rats and black bags are heading off our streets — no room for them in a containerized New York City,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “Thanks to the hard work of DSNY, we have a smart containerization plan that meets the diverse needs of the city. New Yorkers and visitors are getting the clean, welcoming streets they deserve.”

“New Yorkers have been clear: they’ve had enough of the black bags occupying our sidewalks, enough of the oozing garbage juice, and enough of being told that other global cities can have something that we can’t,” said DSNY Commissioner Tisch. “This administration rejects the cynicism that says things can’t change, and the speed at which we’ve moved to change the relationship between 8.3 million New Yorkers and 44 million daily pounds of trash cannot be overstated.”

The Adams administration today unveiled an all-new, automated, side-loading garbage truck — removing a major barrier to containerizing trash from high-density residential buildings. DSNY’s 2023 “Future of Trash” report found that this type of truck is needed to service the stationary on-street containers that high-density buildings will use to containerize their trash. But less than one year ago, industry experts estimated that development of this prototype truck would take up to five years. The truck unveiled today will also allow for substantially faster collection than manual pick-up. The rapid development of this prototype — which took place in Torino, Italy and in both Hicksville and Brooklyn, New York — will be followed by substantial testing and training.

DSNY’s new, automated, side-loading garbage truck. Credit: New York City Department of Sanitation

DSNY’s new, automated, side-loading garbage truck.

Credit: New York City Department of Sanitation

Mayor Adams today outlined a new strategy for determining the type and size of containers that will be used for buildings of different sizes. Under this model, buildings with 31 or more residential units will be required to use stationary, on-street containers for their trash, serviced by the new automated side-loading garbage truck described above. Those on-street containers will be assigned to a specific building, solely for residents of that building. Buildings with 10 to 30 units will be able to choose between stationery on-street containers and smaller wheelie bins. Buildings with one to nine residential units will be required to put their trash in individual wheelie bins starting this fall, with the first-ever official NYC Bins available for use at that time and required by all residential units with one to nine units approximately two years later, in the summer of 2026. This model was informed by a volumetric analysis of how much trash buildings of different sizes produce, on average.

Thanks to the automated, side-loading garbage truck and new containerization strategy announced today, New York City will have its first district with 100 percent of its trash containerized and serviced next year: Manhattan Community Board 9. The district is currently home to a successful containerization pilot on 10 residential blocks and at 14 schools, during which rat sighting complaints in the pilot zone dropped by 68 percent compared to the same period the prior year.

Because the automated side-loading truck had not been available, that current 10-block pilot uses wheeled containers, which sanitation workers wheel to the back of a conventional collection truck retrofitted with a tipping mechanism. Those wheeled bins will be removed and replaced with stationary on-street containers like those used in Europe, Asia, and South America.

As this full-district pilot will require procuring new containers and new trucks, installation will begin across the entirety of Manhattan Community Board 9 in the spring of 2025. This work is already underway, and DSNY will release an RFP to procure the containers next month. DSNY will conduct the necessary environmental review this year and will engage in substantial outreach across the district.

A timeline and process for expansion beyond Manhattan Community Board 9 will be determined based upon learnings from the pilot district.

The implementation of the transition to automated side-loading trucks for high-density buildings and a new containerization strategy will be among the final steps in the “Trash Revolution” and the war on rats.

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.
Starting March 1, 2024, container requirements will go into effect for all businesses — of every type — in New York City to get their trash off the streets and into a secure bin.
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.
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.

“DSNY’s steadfast commitment to containerize waste is inspired,” said Director of Citywide Rodent Mitigation Kathleen Corradi. “This progress in systematically denying rats’ food access enables our city’s mitigation efforts to gain substantial traction and achieve sustainable, long-term success. The full containerization of CB9, representing one third of the Harlem Rat Mitigation Zone, will have a significant positive impact on residents and a significant negative impact on rats.”

“They said that New York could not be contained — they were wrong,” said Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu. “We’re supercharging our city’s relentless drive to make New York the best pedestrian experience in the world.”

“Today marks an historic win in the war on trash,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Four years ahead of schedule, we are taking major strides toward citywide waste containerization, launching automated side-loading collection trucks and using data models to rightsized containers. Once we containerize waste, we rid our streets of the unsightly mountains of garbage bags where rats feast away, instead securing those bags in rodent-proof containers. Congratulations to the people of Community Board 9: as the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, so too does final victory in the War on Trash begin with a single community district. Through the dedication of Mayor Adams and Sanitation Commissioner Tisch, we will enjoy a city where streets are immaculate, trash is out of sight, and rats are begging for food.”

“All New Yorkers have a rat story. From what feels like time immemorial, these rodents have burrowed in our apartment walls, ruined evening walks, and found harbor in our sewer system. But where they really thrive is where there is an abundance of trash—and in New York, where we toss plastic trash bags on street corners, this is practically everywhere. The only way to win the war on rats is to modernize the way we dispose, contain, and process our waste, and that is exactly what we are doing today,” said New York City Councilmember Shaun Abreu, chair, Committee on Sanitation and Solid Waste Management. “In West Harlem, where residents have experienced the worst rat infestations in the entire city for decades, trash management has never been equal. I know it because I see and hear it from my constituents every day. By expanding our containerization pilot program, we are finally putting West Harlem at the decision table when it comes to their right to live in rodent-free neighborhoods. We are not only closing the lid on our garbage, we are closing the door on a period of neglect. The movement for clean streets is here—and I couldn’t be prouder that West Harlem and Morningside Heights are leading from out front.”

“The mayor’s administration has made tremendous strides to improve sanitation efforts across the city, and I commend his efforts,” said New York City Council Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers. “Today’s announcement is another important step towards reducing trash pileup on our streets, and it will help shrink the number of rats running across our sidewalks. I appreciate the mayor’s diligence in this cause. I look forward to seeing this new plan enacted.”

“I applaud Mayor Adams on the full-throttle war on rats and garbage. Trash in our communities create many other problems – rats, which eventually find their way into our homes; blocked storm drains, which can lead to flooding; and other quality of life challenges,” said New York City Councilmember Oswald Feliz. “Clean streets are essential to safe and healthy communities, and we must make it a reality in every corner of New York City.”

AT ANNUAL INTERFAITH BREAKFAST, MAYOR ADAMS, FAITH LEADERS LAUNCH CITYWIDE CLERGY COLLECTIVE TO PREVENT GUN VIOLENCE

Collective Backed by $1.5 Million in State Funding, Will Expand Faith-Led Community Intervention Programs, Family and Victim Services, and Youth Support Systems to Build Safer, More Resilient Communities

Investments and Services Will Target 18 Precincts with High Levels of Gun Violence

NEW YORK — New York City Mayor Eric Adams and a coalition of multifaith leaders from across the city today launched the Citywide Clergy Collective, a group of 272 faith leaders committed to preventing gun violence in New York City, at the administration’s annual interfaith breakfast. Using a $1.5 million grant from the New York State Department of Criminal Justice, Citywide Clergy Collective members will deliver resources, direct services, and community-building programs to all New Yorkers in all five boroughs as they respond to the needs and traumas that gun violence creates. The programs and services will be run by local faith leaders across the city, with assistance from the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD), Office of Neighborhood Safety, Office of Faith-Based and Community Partnerships, and New York City Police Department (NYPD).

“Public safety is the prerequisite to prosperity, and it takes all of us to deliver a safe city,” said Mayor Adams. “That’s why we are bringing together a multidenominational coalition of hundreds of faith leaders with city and state resources so we can prevent gun violence before the shooting starts. Together, we are making systemic investments that will not only lower crime but also help communities heal. We are proud to continue the momentum we’ve built over the first two years of our administration, driving shootings down and making our city safer and more resilient for all New Yorkers.”

“When it comes to public safety, each and every one of us has a role to play in keeping our communities safe. Time and time again, our faith community has been there to answer the call,” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “As co-chair of the ‘Gun Violence Prevention Task Force,’ we have seen firsthand the power of a prevention-based approach and tackling the root causes of gun violence to keep our city safe. Together, with the help from every sector and community in New York City, we can end the gun violence epidemic.”

“Public safety requires the public — all of our fellow New Yorkers — to look out and care for our neighbors. No one understands this better than our allies in the faith-based community,” said Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Ana Almanzar. “Our city has seen real progress in stopping violence before it happens in our streets because of targeted investments in our young people, community support, and fearless crisis management system groups who bring peace every day. I applaud our faith-based partners for leading by example and showing the endless possibilities when communities come together for a greater cause.”

“Gun violence is a serious issue, and we must deal with it seriously. The complex challenges of gun violence are multi-faceted and go way beyond the gun,” said Mayor’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Partnerships Executive Director Pastor Gilford T. Monrose. “The partnership that Mayor Adams is leading with the faith community will change the way we deal with the root causes of the violence in this city. Ending gun violence must involve a holistic approach that includes comprehensive collaboration and community planning. This initial investment of $1.5 million to fund the Citywide Clergy Collective’s faith-led approaches to gun violence prevention is an important aspect in galvanizing our resources towards the high-risk youth and survivors of gun violence.”

“The Office of Faith-Based and Community Partnerships has been an invaluable partner to DYCD’s Office of Neighborhood Safety,” said DYCD Commissioner Keith Howard. “This state grant will strengthen our on-the-ground engagement as well as victim and family support in the neighborhoods most vulnerable to gun violence. DYCD will continue our strong partnership with the NYPD, crisis management system groups, and the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force to support Mayor Adams’ ‘Blueprint to End Gun Violence’ and drive down crime across the city.”

The funds will support three types of programs:

Street-Level Engagement: Increasing and expanding community engagement through clergy walks, street dinners, arts, sports, mentorship, and hotspots programs.
Victim Support Services: Increasing private support of families and survivors of gun violence through prayer vigils, bereavement services, transportation, emergency accommodations, food, and spiritual care.
Precinct Engagement: Connecting with local precincts to support young people with criminal backgrounds, bolstering anti-violence groups, and working with community stakeholders.

In addition to bringing together hundreds of multifaith leaders to prevent gun violence in New York City, the Adams administration has systematically driven down homicides and shootings in New York City through an approach that utilizes both prevention and intervention strategies. This past summer, Mayor Adams’ Gun Violence Prevention Task Force released “A Blueprint for Public Safety,” outlining a forward-thinking roadmap with upstream solutions to address gun violence throughout the five boroughs. The report built upon all the work the Adams administration has undertaken to reduce gun violence by double digits and culminated months of engagement with communities most impacted by gun violence, including young people, whose feedback was critical in shaping the strategies and recommendations that will ensure the city continues to build on the public safety gains made since January 2022.

Co-chaired by First Deputy Mayor Wright and Man Up! Inc. Founder A.T. Mitchell, the task force represents a multi-agency, cross-sector effort to address the root causes of gun violence and develop recommendations to promote long-term safety across all communities. As part of this effort, more than 50 members of the task force, representing 20 city agencies, engaged roughly 1,500 community residents over the course of spring 2023 through community convenings and youth town halls.

In his first month in office, in January 2022, Mayor Adams released the “Blueprint to End Gun Violence” — laying out his priorities to immediately address the crisis of guns on New York City streets. In March 2022, Mayor Adams and the NYPD also created Neighborhood Safety Teams to focus on gun violence prevention, and, early in the administration, Mayor Adams funded the city’s Crisis Management System — which brings teams of credible messengers to mediate conflicts on the street and connect high-risk individuals to services that can reduce the long-term risk of violence — at a record $86 million for Fiscal Year 2024.

Since the start of the administration in January 2022, the NYPD has also removed more than 14,000 illegal guns from New York City streets.

“Ending the scourge of gun violence will take a whole community effort,” said U.S. Representative Dan Goldman. “I’m thankful that faith leaders from across New York City are coming together with one voice to make our city safer. I look forward to working in partnership with them and with the city to implement commonsense gun safety solutions to protect our children, our families, and our communities.”

“I applaud the mayor for prioritizing funding for faith leaders in an effort to reduce gun violence,” said New York State Assemblymember Monique Chandler-Waterman. “Since taking office, I created the Assembly District 58 Public Safety Taskforce, which includes our faith leaders and community stakeholders with lived experience to work together to reduce gun violence and support impacted families. As we know, gun violence is a multi-layered issue that requires a multifaceted approach; this new approach by the mayor is definitely a step in the right direction. As the co-chair of the Anti-Gun Violence Subcommittee of the New York State Black Puerto Rican Hispanic Asian Legislative Caucus, I will continue to advocate along with my colleagues in government for more funding to support our local grassroots non-profit organizations and faith leaders. Our goal is to address the epidemic of gun violence and care for families holistically.” 

“I extend my support to Mayor Adams and our city’s faith-based leaders as they unveil the Citywide Clergy Collective (C3) to combat the pressing issue of gun violence. With a substantial $1.5 million grant from the New York State Department of Criminal Justice, this initiative exemplifies the potent collaboration between government, clergy, and community,” said New York City Councilmember Kevin C. Riley. “It is imperative to acknowledge the disproportionate impact of gun violence on Black and brown communities, and C3 serves as a commitment to addressing this ongoing systemic disparity. Operating across all five boroughs and targeting 18 precincts with elevated gun violence levels, the expansion of faith-led community intervention programs, family services, and youth support systems is crucial to restoring safety within our communities. As Co-Chair of the Black, Latino and Asian Caucus, I resonate deeply with the continued effort to build partnerships with faith-led and community-based organizations, credible messengers, public safety, and all stakeholders to strengthen communities of color, like the Northeast Bronx, across our entire city.” 

“The increasing loss of life due to gun violence in New York City is disheartening and a call for us to do more. The safety of our communities requires the commitment of everyone who lives in it and to be a part of the solution,” said Karmacharya Vijah Ramjattan, founder and president, United Madrassi Association Inc. “New York City is a city of faith and the faithful serve as the backbone of all communities. As an interfaith and Hindu faith leader, I am encouraged by the Clergy Collective initiative, which centers clergy leadership as key stakeholders to aid in ending gun violence. I applaud the mayor’s Office of Faith-based and Community Partnerships team for putting forth a plan to save lives while uniting and building communities through its three core pillars of street level engagement, victim support services, and precinct engagement.”

“We are grateful for the direction of Mayor Adams and his vision to appoint Pastor Gil Monrose to lead interfaith leaders,” said Bishop Doug Woodall. “Matthew 24:12 has given us a clear example of lack of love and concern in our communities. With evil seemingly at its peak, the faith-based leadership of New York City has come together as one body and declared our love for each other and the communities we serve is much stronger than the fear that has overwhelmed our communities. Thank you, Mayor Adams, thank you Pastor Gil for leading the charge in 2023. Through much adversity we have made it, and the best is yet to come in 2024, as we stand and declare, ‘Not on my watch and not in my community.’”

“Historically, profound acts of social justice have been spearheaded by the faith community. The word community should evoke a sense of safety and security. Far too often, especially in marginalized communities, it has become a place of fear and trepidation. This fear impacts the way we live, work and seek healthcare,” said Reverend Dr. Anne Marie Bentsi-Addison, senior director for faith-based initiatives, NYC Health + Hospitals. “This initiative will serve to help fill the gaps in the amazing work already in place. It will provide the necessary resources to undergird strong corrective action plans in need of such support “The winds of change have begun to blow away the darkness and devastation of gun violence. As leaders of the faith community, it is our responsibility to ensure that the ‘ruah,’ the divine winds continue to blow away the darkness of these times through the impact of our deeds. We are the hands and feet of God here on earth, let us continue to exemplify ‘faith in action.’”

“Unfortunately, gun violence has reached epidemic proportions in America, and so, the Clergy Collective was born to reduce the violence in the communities we serve. The Buddha was clear on violence, ‘All living things fear being put to death. Putting oneself in the place of the other, let no one kill nor cause another to kill,’” said Reverend James A. Lynch, rissho kosei kai, New York Buddhist Dharma Center. “Indeed, it is the positive actions of the Clergy Collective, in which people of goodwill and those of religious conviction help end this modern death cult, and we, together affirmatively state, that all of humanity has been placed on this earth to fulfill the Almighty’s plan of peace on earth and goodwill to man.”

“At a time when there is need for greater investment in community, I commend Mayor Adams and DYCD Commissioner Howard for their visionary leadership in allocating $1.4 million towards empowering faith leaders in our ongoing battle against gun violence across all five boroughs. It is our goal and life’s work to reduce the violence in the communities we serve, recognizing the profound impact gun violence has on families and the overall well-being of our neighborhoods,” said Pastor Edward-Richard Hinds, executive director, 67th Precinct Clergy Council “The GodSquad”. “The establishment of the Clergy Collective is a crucial step towards proactively engaging our communities through street engagement, victims’ services for families, and stronger collaboration with law enforcement, all aimed at deterring further violence. Through collaborative efforts with other vital stakeholders and with the GodSquad, we aspire to be co-producers of public safety. We are optimistic that this strategic investment will contribute to a significant reduction in handgun violence, fostering safer and more resilient communities for all.”

“This investment in the faith community confines the mayor’s relationship with religious leaders,” said Rabbi Baruch A. Yehudah, spiritual leader, B’nai Adath Kol Beth Yisrael Synagogue and International Israelite Board of Rabbis. “However, it is and remains one of his best decisions to have those faith leaders working hand and hand with government to save the lives of the citizens of New York City from gun violence, poverty, homelessness, and important other issues. This initiative WILL save lives!”

“‘Kevlar’ has been called ‘the thread that stops bullets,’” said Reverend David Beidel, president, Urban Hope. “It can only do so when it is woven together tightly. There are many powerful institutions in our city that care so deeply for our most vulnerable families. The clergy of New York City are so grateful for the C3 crime prevention initiative. It powerfully reflects the dedication of the mayor’s office to include the faith-based community as a critical component in the weaving together of a safer city.”

MAYOR ADAMS’ STATEMENT ON PASSAGE OF CITY COUNCIL BILLS THAT WILL MAKE NEW YORK CITY LESS SAFE

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today released the following statement after the New York City Council’s votes to override the mayor’s vetoes of Intros. 586-A and 549-A, which would make the city’s streets and jails less safe. The mayor vetoed both bills earlier this month.

“When our administration entered office two years ago, crime was up, and confidence was down across the city. During our first month in office, in one week alone, Detectives Jason Rivera and Wilbert Mora were murdered, multiple officers were victims of gun violence, and an 11-month-old baby was shot in the head.

“Today, New York remains the safest big city in America — and we are getting safer. In 2023, murders were down 12 percent, and shootings were down 25 percent. The Preliminary Mayor’s Management Report will show today that crime was down 3 percent across the major seven categories for the first four months of this fiscal year, and we have continued that trend into the first calendar month of this year. We have also meaningfully improved the conditions in a jail system that was on the brink of collapse two years ago. But the City Council’s votes today may end up undermining all that progress.

“These bills will make New Yorkers less safe on the streets, while police officers are forced to fill out additional paperwork rather than focus on helping New Yorkers and strengthening community bonds. Additionally, it will make staff in our jails and those in our custody less safe by impairing our ability to hold those who commit violent acts accountable.

“From our law enforcement officers and district attorneys to our faith leaders, from the business community to the editorial boards, and from the Federal Monitor to parents like Yanely Henriquez – who lost her daughter Angellyh to gun violence nearly two years ago – New Yorkers have been clear that they want their officers on the streets and their correction staff to come home to their families at night.

“I have always believed that public safety and justice go hand in hand, and I have fought for both throughout my entire career. I share the City Council’s goal of increasing transparency in government, and our administration has remained at the table to negotiate in good faith throughout this entire process to achieve that mission. But the answer is not to compromise public safety or justice for the victims of violence.

“With these bills set to become law, I remain willing to partner with my colleagues in the City Council to address New Yorkers’ concerns in the period leading up to implementation.”

NEW YORK CITY LEADS COALITION OF CITIES URGING SUPREME COURT TO SAFEGUARD ACCESS TO MEDICATION ABORTION

NEW YORK — New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Corporation Counsel Sylvia O. Hinds-Radix today announced that the City of New York is co-leading a coalition of six localities from across the country in filing another amicus brief urging the U.S. Supreme Court to protect access to mifepristone — a medication that millions of Americans use each year for medication abortions and miscarriage management. In December 2023, the Supreme Court granted the Biden administration’s request to review an opinion by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit in the case Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which would have restricted access to mifepristone. Today’s amicus brief underscores how the Fifth Circuit’s decision can have a direct impact on New York City’s health care system and the city’s ability to provide essential reproductive health services, including medication abortions, to those seeking care.

The coalition’s amicus brief strongly supports the federal government’s position by emphasizing the severe potential harm to public health and health care systems that would come from suspending the FDA’s longstanding and more recent regulation of mifepristone. It also highlights the dire consequences, increased costs, and potential disruptions to the health care delivery systems that may result.

“New York City has been and will remain a hub for access to reproductive care because reproductive care is health care, and health care is a fundamental right,” said Mayor Adams. “We are proud to lead this coalition in taking action in full support of protecting women’s access to medication abortions. Not only are the courts denying women the right to control their own bodies through this lower court ruling, but they are also endangering our public health care system by forcing it to divert resources to alternate options and procedures — undoubtedly impacting hospitals’ ability to provide care across the board. This decision was nothing more than an effort to control women’s bodies, their choices, and their freedoms, and we will do everything in our power — legally, personally, and politically — to fight this ruling and defend the rights of all women.”

“The Supreme Court took a step in the right direction when it agreed to review the Fifth Circuit’s misguided ruling, which threatens women’s access to reproductive health care and the stability of our public hospital systems,” said Corporation Counsel Hinds-Radix. “Now the court must reject plaintiffs’ erroneous arguments and keep these FDA regulations in place so the devastating impacts to communities we have detailed in our brief can be avoided.”

“New York City is committed, through any forum, to protecting reproductive rights and access to reproductive health care,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “This is yet another way we are lending our voice and taking action to stand up for women’s rights and the rights of any person in need of reproductive care.”

“Mifepristone is safe and effective and should continue to be a cornerstone of abortion care and reproductive health choices,” said New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan. “Reproductive health is an integral part of health care and community wellbeing, and in New York City we are proud to lead a public health system that will continue to support safe access for anyone in our city or across the nation seeking care.”

Today’s brief explains that if restrictions on medication abortion are upheld, demands on public hospitals will increase. Public hospitals, in turn, would then have to divert resources to meet the increased demand for emergency care and for procedural abortions from their existing patients and from new patients who otherwise would have sought care from providers who cannot pivot to providing procedural abortions. According to the brief, at a time when many public hospitals and health care systems are struggling in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Fifth Circuit’s decision would make it even more challenging to provide care to vulnerable populations that depend on public health care systems and suffer many acute ailments at above-average rates. The brief explains that an adverse decision by the court couldn’t come at a worse time: thousands of patients in need of all kinds of non-emergency surgical care could find themselves facing significant delays in obtaining procedures, and some may forgo care altogether, leading to worse health outcomes across the board.

The Supreme Court will likely hear arguments on the case in the spring, with a decision likely sometime near the end of the court’s term in June 2024. The challenged mifepristone regulations remain in place while the case proceeds.

The City of New York, NYC Health + Hospitals, and Santa Clara County, California co-drafted the amicus brief. They are joined by Los Angeles County, California; San Francisco County and the City of San Francisco, California; Cook County, Illinois; and King County, Washington.

Today’s filing comes on the heels of the Adams 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, with the ambitious goal of becoming the most women-forward city in the United States. Released last week, the action 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. Specifically, the action plan commits and invests in furthering the provision of medication abortion through sexual health clinics to increase access to abortion in New York City.

In 2022, in its Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the federal right to access safe, legal abortions nationwide. Since that decision, New York City has introduced a range of services to protect and fulfill the local right to access abortion care. Since launching the New York City Abortion Access Hub in November 2022, more than 3,500 callers and over 790 chatters have been directed to reproductive services and resources through NYC Health + Hospitals and providers throughout New York City.

In August 2022, Mayor Adams signed legislation enabling access to no-cost medication abortion at DOHMH sexual health clinics. The service has since expanded to the Jamaica and Central Harlem Sexual Health clinics after launching in Morrisania, Bronx in January 2023. Last year, NYC Health + Hospitals also launched telehealth abortion access through Virtual ExpressCare — becoming the first public health system in the nation to do so. Patients in New York City seeking abortion care can schedule a Virtual ExpressCare appointment to speak with a New York state-licensed health care professional by video or phone, on-demand, for an assessment and counseling. If clinically appropriate and prescribed, patients will be able to receive a medication abortion kit at their New York City address within a few days. This service is available seven days a week, between 9:00 AM and 9:00 PM, and will provide patients with access to safe, legal abortion care. Patients can access telehealth abortion care online or by calling (718) 360-8981. 

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’ STATEMENT ON PASSING OF DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS SERVICES DEPUTY COMMISSIONER PAUL VALLONE

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today released the following statement on the passing of Paul Vallone, deputy commissioner for external affairs at the New York City Department of Veterans Services. Vallone previously represented District 19 in Queens in the New York City Council:

“The borough of Queens and our entire city mourn the loss of Paul Vallone, a true public servant and New Yorker. A true son of Queens, he upheld a family legacy through his service in the New York City Council and with the New York City Department of Veterans’ Services. Throughout his time in office, the blue-collar community he represented knew they had a fighter from the neighborhood representing them in City Hall. In that role and as a member of our administration, he was a committed advocate for veterans — serving those who have served our country. It was an honor to serve alongside him, and I know New Yorkers will join me in keeping the Vallone family in your hearts today.”

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES CITY HALL, OTHER CITY BUILDINGS TO BE LIT YELLOW TOMORROW IN HONOR OF INTERNATIONAL HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE DAY

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced that City Hall and other municipal buildings will be lit yellow tomorrow in honor of International Holocaust Remembrance Day this Saturday, January 27.

“As mayor of the largest Jewish community in the world outside of Israel, today, I am haunted by the thought of how much larger our incredible Jewish family would be if it weren’t for the atrocities of the Holocaust,” said Mayor Adams. “October 7, 2023, was a reminder that hate is not a part of a distant past we remember but an ugly reality we must confront. Our Jewish brothers and sisters should take comfort in knowing New York City will ‘Never Forget’ and will always be a haven for the Jewish people. May this light be a small symbol of our solidarity and send beams of hope for the future throughout our city.”

First designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2005, International Holocaust Remembrance Day commemorates the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau in 1945.

In addition to City Hall, the following city buildings will be lit up yellow starting tomorrow 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
Queens Borough Hall: 120-55 Queens Boulevard, Queens, NY 11424
Staten Island Borough Hall: 10 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island, NY 10301

“Through the illumination of City Hall in yellow as part of the World Jewish Congress’ #WeRemember campaign, the mayor has once again demonstrated an unwavering commitment to Holocaust education and to standing with the Jewish community during a time of rising antisemitism,” said Ronald S. Lauder, president, World Jewish Congress. “This meaningful gesture is a beacon of hope and a powerful reminder of the lessons we must carry forward. We are grateful to the leaders of the City of New York for their continued dedication to remembering the past and educating future generations, reinforcing our collective resolve to combat antisemitism and all forms of hatred.”

NEW YORKERS OFFER PRAISE OF MAYOR ADAMS’ FUTURE-FOCUSED VISION FOR WORKING-CLASS NEW YORKERS IN THIRD STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS

Address Outlined Ambitious Plans to Establish Department of Sustainable Delivery,

Support 400,000 Green Economy Jobs, Build New Housing on Public Land, Expand NYC Reads, Tackle Youth Mental Health, Invest in Clean, Dynamic Public Spaces, and Protect New York City From Climate Change

Adams Administration’s Vision to Protect Public Safety, Rebuild Economy, and Make City More Livable Continues to Deliver for Working-Class New Yorkers

New Yorkers Have Seen Safer Streets, Medical Debt Canceled, Record Amounts of Affordable Housing Created, and Investments in Clean Streets and Public Spaces

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams yesterday outlined a future-focused vision for working-class New Yorkers in his third State of the City address, delivered at Hostos Community College in the Bronx. After driving crime down and pushing private-sector job growth to historic highs — all while managing a once-in-a-generation asylum seeker humanitarian crisis — Mayor Adams outlined ambitious plans to continue to deliver for New York City across his priority areas that have been a part of his vision for New York City since day one: making the country’s safest big city even safer, building a forward-looking economy that works for working-class New Yorkers, and making the city more livable for all.

Here’s what New Yorkers are saying:

“Mayor Adams outlined a set of bold ideas that will advance our shared vision of a more affordable, more livable, and safer New York,” said New York Governor Kathy Hochul. “The mayor and I are both united in the fight to solve our affordability crisis by increasing the housing supply. As Mayor Adams said: the city wants more housing – it’s time to let them build! I’ve committed to fight for legislative changes in Albany that will allow him to do just that. Mayor Adams’ focus on the issues facing New York’s working families is also commendable. I share his concern that social media is having a negative effect on too many young people, and I’m pleased to see him take action to protect their mental health. The mayor’s work to cancel $2 billion in medical debt will also change lives for working-class New Yorkers, and financial counseling will help patients avoid debt in the first place. We’ve built a strong, productive partnership over the past two years, working together to fight crime, build housing and address the migrant crisis. Working together, we’ll make sure New York’s future is bright.”

“Mayor Adams’ hard work is paying off for New York, from safer communities to remarkable job growth and beyond. With so many in my district struggling to find affordable homes, the mayor’s ‘24 in ‘24’ plan will generate desperately-needed housing supply while tools like the Tenant Protection Cabinet and Homeowner Help Desk will help hardworking families stay in their homes,” said New York State Assemblymember Brian Cunningham. “I am proud to answer the call for support in Albany, where I have introduced the Faith Based Affordable Housing Act to empower religious organizations to contribute to housing growth in our city. I also applaud Mayor Adams’ plan to cancel medical debt for hundreds of thousands, easing a burden that falls disproportionately on communities of color like mine. I look forward to another year of success working with the mayor’s administration to advance my constituents’ well-being.”

“Mayor Adams has led our city through multiple crises with unprecedented energy and accomplishment. He brought our city back from the COVID-19 crisis and the numbers speak for themselves: Jobs are at unprecedented heights, crime is down, and test scores are up. The administration’s investments in working people and public safety are paying off,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “In his State of the City address, Mayor Adams mapped a vision for the future to unlock the potential of all New Yorkers. I am proud to partner with him at the state level to deliver results for our city. That includes passing my SMOKEOUT Act that the mayor called for in his address, which will allow us to shutter all illegal smoke shops this year. I will also work with the mayor and my Albany colleagues to pass an affordable housing package, extend Mayoral Accountability of our schools, and accommodate asylum seekers. Together, we will make the Greatest City in the World a national model of resiliency and success.”

“The new housing that will be created at 388 Hudson will bring much needed affordable housing stock to an area that has for years been increasingly out of reach for New Yorkers, especially people of color and those who are not wealthy,” said New York City Councilmember Erik Bottcher. “The hundreds of families who are currently locked out of the housing market will find permanent homes at 388 Hudson Street, transforming their lives and making our community an even better place. I want to thank Mayor Eric Adams’ team for prioritizing housing creation during this time of great need.”

“New York City is confronting crises on multiple fronts with housing, affordability, and dignified conditions for tenants among them,” said New York City Councilmember Carmen De La Rosa. “We continue to work to ensure that the commitments made during the Inwood Rezoning yield housing that is both dignified and affordable, and prioritizes the curbing of displacement for uptown families. We look forward to working with the New York City Department of Housing and Preservation and Development during the community visioning stages to identify community spaces that continue to uplift the educational and workforce needs of our city and give our constituents a seat at the table, especially our youth who will benefit greatly from additional STEM spaces.”

“Mayor Adams outlined a future-focused vision that resonates with the mission his administration has prioritized over the past two years—protecting public safety, rebuilding our economy, and making our city more livable,” said New York City Councilmember Kamillah Hanks. “The investments in working people and housing are beginning to yield positive results. I was also thrilled to hear the mayor reaffirm his commitment to his $426 million historic investment in revitalizing our north shore from the Verrazano to the Bayonne Bridge.”

“With more than 8,000 newly arrived neighbors in my council district alone, it is essential that we continue to focus on building affordable, supportive housing to build a stronger community,” said New York City Councilmember Julie Won. “This announcement of our city’s investment in Hunter’s Point South as one of the five initial public sites to receive affordable housing is critical to ensuring all of our neighbors have a long term future in our city. This development would add hundreds more affordable housing units to the 1,622 units that I approved since taking office. I look forward to working in partnership with the mayor’s office to ensure that this project is brought to full completion to meet the needs of working-class New Yorkers.”

“As a concerned citizen and the first Chinese American city councilmember in Brooklyn’s history, I feel incredibly fortunate to have our mayor,” said New York City Councilmember Susan Zhuang. “Mayor Adams is someone who has gone into ensuring that every aspect of public safety is addressed comprehensively. I appreciate the mayor’s efforts on clean streets which not only enhance the visual appeal of our city but also contribute to a healthier and more vibrant community.”

“Mayor Adams delivered a bold, worker-first vision for New York,” said Service Employees International Union, Local 32BJ (32BJ SEIU) President Manny Pastreich. “Whether it’s creating more desperately-needed housing or good-paying jobs, 32BJ SEIU stands ready to partner with this administration as it continues the work of building a more affordable and equitable New York.”

“Mayor Adams ran on a platform of being the blue-collar mayor, and he promised that he would bring back the economy and bring back jobs,” said Rich Maroko, president, Hotel and Gaming Trades Council. “He’s delivered on that promise, building a city economy that supports working and middle-class New Yorkers and making the city more livable for everyone.”

“Mayor Eric Adams has taken our fight against housing insecurity and homelessness to extraordinary heights, setting a new standard of leadership in New York City,” said Shams DaBaron, housing and homelessness advocate. “My journey alongside him, from the pavement to policy-making, has given me a front-row seat to his unwavering commitment. His administration’s partnership with those who have lived the stark reality of homelessness, including myself, has sparked pivotal changes. The tangible outcomes of our collaboration, from policy overhauls to program implementations, are evident citywide. The State of the City announcements highlight these achievements, while introducing initiatives like the New York City Housing Authority waitlist reopening and the ambitious 24 in 24 housing project, which promises to advance 24 housing projects on 24 city-owned properties impacting 12,000 units of housing for New Yorkers. Such groundbreaking work affirms Mayor Adams’ dedication to a Housing-First agenda and safeguards tenants’ rights, ensuring that housing security is within reach for all.”

“Mayor Adams cut through the negative political chatter and delivered a message that New Yorkers need to hear: despite some tough challenges, our city is strong and we are headed in the right direction because of his administration’s focus on public safety, economic growth, and improving the quality of life in every community,” Kathryn Wylde, president & chief executive officer, Partnership for New York City.

“Economic development, housing, and sustainability are all essential to the success of our city, including our restaurants, bars, and nightclubs across the five boroughs,” said Andrew Rigie, executive director, New York City Hospitality Alliance. “That is why we commend Mayor Adams and Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Maria-Torres Springer’s forward-looking policies that support our city and hospitality sector.”

“The Hotel Association of New York City (HANYC) is incredibly proud and supportive of the efforts of the administration and New York City Economic Development Corporation to imbue New York City with the many attributes of a forward-looking economy, ranging from a green economy action plan, to making the city a better place for women to live, work and thrive in, to providing more affordable housing projects, all of which immensely benefit the hotel and tourism industries,” said Vijay Dandapani, president and chief executive officer, HANYC.

“Tackling New York City’s worsening housing crisis will require the deployment of a plethora of initiatives and strategies,” said James Whelan, president, Real Estate Board of New York. “The Adams administration is to be commended for seizing every opportunity within its control to address the crisis.”

“Under Mayor Adams‘ leadership in 2023, Times Square welcomed over 100 million people, our businesses thrived with new openings exceeding pandemic closures, and crime rates are down to the lowest level in years,” said Tom Harris, president, Times Square Alliance. “As we adapt to our new normal where we want to live closer to our jobs, the creation of 12,000 units of affordable housing for working New Yorkers will make New York City more accessible for those choosing to live, work, and play in our great city.”

“The State of the City is an opportunity to envision a future for New York City as an affordable, safe place to live, one where the cost of a home isn’t prohibitive to charting your own course,” said Rafael E. Cestero, chief executive officer, The Community Preservation Corporation. “We’re thankful Mayor Adams recognized the need for this vision and is looking for new ways to deliver safe, stable housing, and create opportunity for all New Yorkers.”

“We appreciate that Mayor Eric Adams is centering renters and homeowners in need of assistance in his State of the City,” said Rachel Fee, executive director, New York Housing Conference. “And with his plans for the City of Yes zoning reforms and his legislative agenda in Albany, we’re hopeful New York City will have the tools to address the housing crisis in a bigger way.”

“Affordable housing will continue to be center stage in New York due to the depth of the crisis and the centrality of housing in peoples’ lives,” said Baaba Halm, vice president and market leader, Enterprise Community Partners. “At both the city and state level, we need solutions to be advanced to address both near and long-term needs. To that end, we are excited by the long-term potential of unlocking 24 new sites for significant housing supply and thrilled by the re-opening of the Section 8 waitlist to offer relief to families in the short term. We look forward to partnering with the city on making the new initiatives announced yesterday a success and to build on them.”

“We are excited to hear of all the good news related to so many important quality-of-life matters for New Yorkers that will be improved with these new initiatives,” said Wellington Chen, executive director, Chinatown Business Improvement Partnership. “This is indeed ‘Get Stuff Done’ time!”

“Jobs and housing – that’s what New Yorkers care about and that’s what Mayor Adams and his economic team are delivering on,” said Randy Peers, president and chief executive officer, Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce. “The specific focus on the green economy will keep New York City at the forefront of climate innovation and resiliency, both nationally and globally.”

“The mayor’s focus on connecting New Yorkers to housing and jobs is the key to our economic growth in the Bronx,” said Lisa Sorin, president and chief executive officer, The Bronx Chamber of Commerce. “We look forward to working with the mayor to implement his ambitious agenda.”

“The New York Real Estate Chamber (NYREC) would like to commend Mayor Adams on his leadership and the results he’s delivered for New York City given the daunting circumstances the city has endured recently,” said Craig Livingston, board chair, NYREC. “Mayor Adams continues to navigate the COVID recovery, the migrant crisis, the erosion of the office market, and a severe dearth of affordable housing. He’s overseen the reduction in major crimes, an all-time high in employment, and is pushing for major rezonings so we can build more housing. Most importantly, he’s leading the economic recovery in an inclusive way with broad participation from Black owned businesses. The $6 billion in contracts awarded to minority businesses in 2023 is unprecedented and is a huge step in the right direction.”

“We are thrilled with Mayor Adams’ announcement to expand the Homeowner Help Desk citywide — a testament to our shared commitment to preserving homeownership and stabilizing communities in New York City,” said Christie Peale, chief executive office and executive director, Center for NYC Neighborhoods. “This expansion empowers homeowners with critical resources and support, including the Center for NYC Neighborhoods’ existing foreclosure prevention and home repair programs, and ensuring homeowners have the tools needed to thrive and sustain their homes. Together, we are making significant strides towards a more equitable and resilient city, where every New Yorker has the opportunity to own and maintain their home.”

“On the long journey out of our housing crisis, it’s imperative to keep taking steps forward,” said Howard Slatkin, executive director, Citizens Housing and Planning Council. “We appreciate the Adams administration’s efforts to use all the tools at its disposal to spur the creation of more housing and better enable New Yorkers to afford and maintain their homes.”

“New York City urgently needs resources that support access to affordable housing and programs that will help us build the green workforce to grow our clean energy economy,” said Blondel Pinnock, president and chief executive officer, Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation. “We applaud Mayor Adams for prioritizing investments that will create 12,000 new housing units and 400,000 new green jobs. Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation has always been committed to increasing access to housing, homeownership and economic mobility in Central Brooklyn, and we look forward to supporting the city’s bold vision for the future.”

“New York City is in the midst of an affordability crisis driven by a housing crunch that’s widening the racial wealth gap,” said Valerie White, senior executive director, Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) New York. “With this State of the City address, we have the opportunity to embrace a new path forward, where we strive together to build an equitable economy. We are encouraged by the plan Mayor Adams put forward yesterday, among other things, that not only supports homeownership in BIPOC communities, but also looks to add support for homeowner retention, a priority for LISC NY.”

“This was a State of the City that highlighted a number of exciting, big ticket, game changing initiatives,” said Robert W. Walsh, president, Bronx Economic Development Corporation, “Combined with giant steps forward to help small businesses and mom and pop shops, New York City is a ‘City of Yes!’”

“We applaud Mayor Adams and the Economic Development Corporation for their efforts on the new Green Economy Action Plan, which will bolster New York City as a driver of innovative solutions to address the climate crisis,” said Michael Samuelian, founding director, Urban Tech Hub at Cornell Tech’s Jacobs Institute. “Cornell Tech’s campus has been a model for sustainable development since its buildings opened in 2017. This proposed massive reduction of carbon emissions and creation of 400,000 green jobs will further establish the city as a leader for sustainable technological innovation and opportunity.”

“Yesterday, Mayor Adams made it clear that the health and growth of New York City’s future economy is a priority for the year ahead, and Business Improvement District leaders, like myself, are committed to seeing this through,” said Julie Stein, executive director, Union Square Partnership. “I look forward to working with City Hall to champion the important issues this year that will ultimately improve public safety, foster economic growth and improve our city’s livability for all New Yorkers.”

“New York City’s hospitals are essential to the health and well-being of our residents and neighborhoods and are strongly committed to helping Mayor Adams achieve his health care goals, including in the areas of maternal mortality, mental health, and the Healthy NYC initiative,” said Greater New York Hospital Association President Kenneth E. Raske. “We applaud the Mayor’s leadership on these critically important health care issues.”

“NYAM is encouraged by the Mayor’s agenda to prepare for inevitable impacts of climate change on New York. Preparing for and mitigating this impact is not only critical for city infrastructure, but also for our health, our communities, and our ability to recover from climate-induced stresses,” said Dr. Ann Kurth, President, The New York Academy of Medicine. “A resilient city is a healthier city. Thank you to Mayor Adams for making climate change resilience and its impact on health equity a priority, and a model for the nation.”

“RIP Medical Debt is proud to be partnering with the City of New York to bring medical debt relief to an estimated 500,000 residents,” said Allison Sesso president and CEO of RIP Medical Debt. “Medical debt not only creates financial hurdles for families, but substantial psychological barriers to seeking care. We look forward to working with community-minded health care providers across New York to get these debts of necessity erased.”

“We applaud New York City Mayor Adams for embracing and actioning a ‘safety-first’ approach to social media use among teens and young adults as nationwide leaders in understanding the impact it has on their mental health,” said John MacPhee, CEO, The Jed Foundation (JED). “We do not have enough evidence yet to know if social media is sufficiently safe for our teens and young adults or how it fully impacts their well-being. But, what we do know is that the responsibility to ensure young people are entering safe spaces online is the charge of technology leaders, funders and policymakers. JED fully supports this administration in creating communities of care to protect emotional health and prevent suicide for young people throughout New York City, as well as championing youth rights and a well-being centered approach to the development, deployment, and use of social media platforms. JED is dedicated to supporting teens and young adults to create lives that are balanced and healthy on- and off-line and working with preK-12 school districts and colleges to help them educate and empower students to make social media work for—and not against—them.”

“I can’t go anywhere in the city without someone shouting out, ‘Hey Gridlock Sam what are you gonna do about all these e-bike and moped delivery guys?’” said Sam Schwartz, founder, Sam Schwartz Consulting, LLC and former New York City Traffic Commissioner. “Creating a Department of Sustainable Delivery is a good first step toward addressing this and many other delivery issues; this is just the beginning of a long process, and I look forward to being involved.”

“RPA is pleased to see many of our priorities reflected in Mayor Adams’s State of the City speech,” said Tom Wright, president and CEO, Regional Plan Association. “Building new housing, restoring NYCHA, improving the public realm, and mapping out a plan to bring order to commercial deliveries – are all smart policies that will make the city more livable and affordable. We are committed to helping advance these and other City of Yes proposals throughout the coming year.”

“This administration is prioritizing public space like never before. Building off an exciting year for New York’s first-ever Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu, Mayor Adams’ commitments to invest in enriching public space will keep New Yorkers safer, happier and healthier,” said Jackson Chabot, director of advocacy and organizing, Open Plans. “Investments to Kimlau Plaza will allow that space to be a community hub for generations to come. And sidewalks are public spaces, too! So we are enthusiastically following the new plans to containerize trash and utilize the curblane to get bags and bins off our sidewalks. Public space is where life happens for New Yorkers and these investments are critical for the future of our city.”

“Redesigning Kimlau Square shows vision and investment into our community – exactly what we need at this time,” said Raymond Tsang, president, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association. “Chinatown has been hit hard since the pandemic and continues to suffer from anti-Asian hate. The commitment from both the city and state will improve the future for Chinatown and Lower Manhattan.”

“We are thrilled to announce this partnership with New York City that will bring the city’s skate infrastructure to a whole new level and give its iconic skate culture the respect and expanded space it deserves,” said Benjamin Anderson Bashein, executive director, The Skatepark Project. “True to our mission as an organization, these projects will serve the immediate needs of the community, celebrate the great legacy of skateboarding in New York, and will allow anyone within these communities who wants to learn to skate the opportunity to do so.”

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`S STATEMENT ON 4.8 MAGNITUTE EARTHQUAKE FELT IN NEW YORK CITY

“Earlier this morning, we experienced a 4.8-magnitude earthquake in the New York City area, with thankfully no reported injuries or damage to our infrastructure. We are, however, urging our residents to please check in with loved ones and neighbors during this time while keeping in mind aftershocks may occur. Our team is closely monitoring the situation and will continue sharing updates as we receive them.”

“If you are experiencing an emergency, please dial 911 and 311 to report non-emergencies. Resources will also be available on our website.”

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON AND COUNCIL MEMBER STEVENS ANNOUNCE $4M RENOVATION FOR HISTORIC BRONX SKATE PARK

Bronx, NY – On April 4, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson joined New York City Council Member Althea Stevens, and NYC Parks Bronx Borough Commissioner Jessenia Aponte, at the historical Reverend T. Wendell Foster Park and Recreation Center’s Skate Park to announce $4 million in capital funding to preserve and enhance the beloved Bronx Landmark located at East 164^th Street and River and Jerome Avenue near Yankee Stadium. They were joined by professional inline skater Ray Mendez, who honed his skills as a child at the Skate Park before competing in high-level inline skating competitions.

“The renovation of the Reverend T. Wendell Foster Park and Recreation Center’s Skate Park is years in the making and, once completed, will transform the park into an area for our children, families, and skating enthusiasts to safely recreate without having to leave their neighborhood,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “This $4 million is an investment not just in the park, but also in the West Bronx, and demonstrates our shared commitment to enhancing public spaces in our borough. I want to thank Council Member Althea Stevens, NYC Parks and Recreation, and our parks advocates for their partnership on this initiative, and I look forward to seeing the completion of the skate park.”

“This investment represents our commitment to preserving our city’s cultural heritage and providing inclusive recreational opportunities for all,” said NYC Council Member Althea Stevens. The Skate Park at Rev. T. Wendell Foster Park and Recreation Center holds a special place in the hearts of many, and with this renovation, we aim to ensure that it remains a vibrant and welcoming space for years to come.”

“Our project to reconstruct the skate and bike park at the Rev. T. Wendell Foster Park and recreation Center will revitalize a unique and essential space that is enjoyed by inline skaters, BMX bikers, and skateboard enthusiasts alike. The park features some of the biggest ramps in our system, making it a destination for thrill seekers,” said NYC Parks Bronx Borough Commissioner Jessenia Aponte. “These investments in our park amenities enhance public safety and bring communities closer together, and Parks is committed to providing the highest quality recreational spaces for residents of every borough. We are extremely grateful to the City Council and Bronx Borough President, as well as the Mayor’s Office and Department of State, for allocating funds to make this project a reality.”

“Once an ice skating rink where I skated as a child, the community adopted the space in the 1980’s and it became NYC’s first ramp park,” said Former Pro Skater and NYC Action Sports Ambassador, Ray Mendez. “Everyone on wheels: be it on a bike, board, or blades flocked here. It became our home. Now, over 30 years later, it’s still the oldest ramp park in NYC & the 2nd oldest in all of the East Coast. It’s a place that made me who I am today and I am grateful to Bronx Borough President Vanessa L Gibson, New York City Council Member Althea Stevens, New York City Parks Bronx Borough Commissioner Jessenia Aponte, and the longstanding stewards & guardians of this Park, Eddie Rios, Louie Lopez, Robert Ramos and Brendan Vail who together are making sure this place lives on.”

Since its establishment in 1988, the skate park has been a vibrant hub for skateboarders, rollerbladers, and BMX riders. It has fostered a sense of community while providing a safe space for recreation and creativity. Recently, Pro-Skater Tony Hawk invested in building and renovating skate parks city-wide to improve accessibility, capacity, and functionality for residents. This combined $4,000,000 from New York City Council Member Stevens and Bronx Borough President Gibson is a commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles, fostering community, supporting youth development, and enhancing the overall quality of life for Bronx residents while maintaining a historic Bronx landmark.

HISTORIC WOODLAWN CEMETERY & CONSERVANCY RECEIVES OVER $900TH IN CAPITAL FUNDING FOR STRUCTURAL REPAIRS

Bronx, NY – On April 3rd, at 10:00 a.m. Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson joined New York City Council Member Eric Dinowitz at Woodlawn Cemetery & Conservancy to present $931,000 in capital funding to connect Woodlawn Cemetery’s western border (Jerome Avenue) to the New York City Museum sewer system.

With funding secured in Fiscal Year 2024, the allocation means upgrades for Woodlawn Cemetery & Conservancy’s public restrooms that were built in 1930 and are located at the Jerome Avenue Entrance. Soon those who attend lectures, concerts, and other programs in the Woolworth Building, as well, will benefit from an upgraded septic system. The Woolworth building is scheduled to upgrade restrooms making them more accessible and ADA compliant, with this also enabling the organization to accommodate increasing public use of the Woodlawn Cemetery & Conservancy as a historic site, outdoor learning lab, and tourist destination. Woodlawn Cemetery & Conservancy is open to the public daily and admission to the site is free of cost, with all visitors provided with informational brochures allowing them to enjoy the collection of outstanding memorials, pay homage to the celebrated figures at rest, and walk among the 6,000 trees contained within the urban forest.

“A place of education and exploration and the final resting place of legendary New Yorkers, the Woodlawn Cemetery and Conservancy is a cultural gem in our borough,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “With this capital allocation, our beloved Woodlawn Cemetery will soon be more accessible for our residents and families to partake in the beauty and majesty of this historic landmark. I want to thank Council Member Eric Dinowitz for his partnership on this initiative to invest in one of our borough`s public spaces.”

“The Woodlawn Cemetery is a beloved public landmark of the Bronx, and I am pleased to provide it the funding that it deserves,” said New York City Council Member Eric Dinowitz. “Its historic legacy necessitates that we maintain its preservation to the best of our ability and ensure that it is equipped with the implements to make it accessible and ADA compliant in our community today. The connection of its western border to the New York City septic system means opening new pathways of accessibility to the public, allowing visitors to more readily appreciate this landmark. I am proud to fund this public project, in tandem with Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson, to effectively bring forth a cultural icon into the 21st century.

“The Woodlawn Cemetery and Conservancy is extremely grateful to Bronx Borough President, Vanessa Gibson, and Councilmember, Eric Dinowitz, for their continued support,” said Christopher Jeannopoulos President and CEO of The Woodlawn Cemetery and Conservancy. “This capital grant will help improve our infrastructure and facilities, allowing for the continuation and expansion of our significant educational programs and community engagement events. Woodlawn remains a valuable and committed community partner for the northwest Bronx.”

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON HOSTS BRONX FLAG RAISING IN RECOGNITION OF TRANSGENDER DAY OF VISIBILITY

Bronx, New York – On April 1^st, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson joined Bronx LGBTQIA+ leaders and her Bronx LGBTQIA+ Task Force to host the Bronx’s first Transgender Day of Visibility flag raising in front of Bronx Borough Hall at 158th Street and the Grand Concourse. Officially proclaimed by President Joe Biden on March 31^st, 2021, Transgender Day of Visibility was created in 2009 by transgender activist Rachel Crandall of Michigan to address the lack of visibility for transgender people. In 2014, the day was observed by activists around the world, and in 2015, a social media campaign was launched where transgender people posted their personal stories while promoting the need for new laws to protect and empower the LGBTQIA+ community.

Before the flag raising, transgender activists gathered at Bronx Borough Hall to speak on the importance of trans visibility and representation in the Bronx as well as recent policies targeting the trans community in city and state government.

“During today’s event, we are lifting up the voices and lived experiences of our trans community in the Bronx,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “We support visibility but we must also center the voices of those who are on the frontlines fighting for our TGNC community. Today’s flag raising is a demonstration of solidarity with our trans community and that our borough is inclusive and stands against hate.”

“Visibility isn’t just about acknowledging our presence; it means actively listening to our needs and ensuring we can live authentically without fear,” said founder and Executive Director of Destination Tomorrow, Sean Coleman. “Achieving true visibility and representation for our Transgender siblings requires a collective effort–a commitment from our leaders and allies to recognize all necessary steps to fully uplift our voices and experiences.”

“The Commission is charged with enforcing the New York City Human Rights Law, one of the broadest civil rights laws in the nation,” said Associate Human Rights Specialist and Transgender Communities Liaison for the New York City Commission on Human Rights, Tabytha Gonzalez. “This law prohibits discrimination based on over 25 protected categories such as gender, gender identity, sexuality, race, and age. In the wake of CEC2 resolution this is yet another example of how trans people are constantly being scrutinized and questioned which is why the city’s Human Rights Law has strong and clear protections against discrimination, harassment, and bias based on gender expression and gender identity at work, in housing, and in public spaces. We know that visibility is important because for far too long we had to hide who we are and live our lives in the shadows. The Commission on Human Rights wants to see you. We want to see all New Yorkers of all identities thrive here.”

“‘A diamond is a just a piece of charcoal that handled stress exceptionally well’ is an adage that describes the struggle our TGNCNB community face each day in the fight for civil and human rights,” said Kim Watson-Benjamin, LGBTQIA+ and Health Coordinator for the Office of Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams, who added, “I am not below you, I am right here with you in the fight to pave the way.”

During the ceremony, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson presented a Proclamation declaring April 1st, 2024, Transgender Day of Visibility in the Borough of the Bronx.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON CELEBRATES IRISH HERITAGE MONTH

Bronx, NY - On Wednesday, March 27th, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson partnered with Montefiore Medical Center to celebrate Irish Heritage Month at the Rambling House located at 4292 Katonah Avenue in the Woodlawn section of the Bronx. Serving as emcee was the Former Commissioner of the NYC Department of Small Business Services and current President of the Bronx Economic Development Corporation, Robert Walsh in an evening featuring special performances by the New York State Court Officers Pipes and Drums, the New York Ceili Band, and an Irish Celtic Dance performed by Sean Tierney.

Honorees this year were the Director for the Office of Veteran and Military Services at the University of Mount St. Vincent Tiana Sloan; President of Cardinal Hayes High School, Michael Carey; Manager of An Beal Bocht Café, Bronagh Harmon; Executive Director of Communications & Public Affairs of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Deirdre Branley; President of Cardinal Spellman High School, Daniel O’Keefe; and 14-year-old Aoife Flemming, who has competed in international Irish dance and music competitions, and performs with the Ceili Band, accepted the Youth Award. Borough President Gibson also presented a posthumous tribute to the Bob Nolan Family by issuing a Proclamation declaring March 29th, 2024, as Robert Francis Day in the Bronx and introduced the creation of the Robert F. (Bob) Nolan Memorial Award.

MY SISTER’S KEEPER BRONX COMMITTEE AND BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON HOST: “MY SISTER’S KEEPER UNCONFERENCE”

Bronx, NY – New York City Public Schools, My Sister’s Keeper Bronx Committee, along with the Office of the Bronx Borough President, hosted the “My Sister’s Keeper Unconference,” on Wednesday, March 27th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. where over 1,000 students, from schools across the Bronx, filled the Hayes Auditorium on the campus of the University of Mount St. Vincent, at 6301 Riverdale Avenue, Bronx, New York 10471.

Honored at the event were former NYC Schools Chancellor and inaugural President and CEO of the Bronx Community Foundation, Dr. Meisha Ross-Porter; New York State Commissioner of Education and President of the University of the State of New York, Dr. Betty A. Rosa; and 6^th president of The University of Mount Saint Vincent, Dr. Susan R. Burns. Serving as emcee was MSK Core Team Lead, LA Dunn. Citations of Merit were presented to the three student emcees and three finalists of an essay writing contest called MSK Embodiment of Sisterhood, who won 1st Place in the elementary school, middle school, and high school categories.

“Our young children and teens deserve every opportunity available to acquire the skills needed to thrive and prosper as adults,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “Through the ‘My Sister’s Keeper Unconference,’ we spoke directly to over 1,000 girls and young women across the Bronx about our unwavering commitment to ensuring that they receive the necessary support to become the leaders of the future. I want to thank New York City Public Schools, the My Sister’s Keeper Bronx Committee, and everyone else who played a role in bringing this event to fruition.”

“The young women in our schools today are the leaders in our city tomorrow, and many of them are already stepping up as role models in their communities,” said NYC Schools Chancellor David C. Banks. “Congratulations to today’s essay finalists and to everyone who took part in this amazing display of unity and community.”

“I think it is critical that women create spaces and opportunities for girls and young women to feel inspired and see themselves in us,” said NYC Chancellor’s Master Principal, Dr. Roshone Ault Lee. “This is why it is important to me as a sitting principal to advance this work and I am just elated that I can partner with the Borough President and her team to do this together for the Bronx.”

“It was such an honor to have the opportunity to welcome more than 1,000 young women to our campus for the My Sister’s Keeper Bronx Unconference,” shared University of Mount Saint Vincent President Susan R. Burns. “Mount Saint Vincent was the first institution to offer advanced education to young women in New York, and while the University has grown to serve students of all genders, races, ethnicities, and backgrounds, our mission remains constant—to provide transformational educational opportunities that enable all learners to realize their potential and apply their experience at the Right Place on the River toward lives of leadership, service, and innovation. I am thankful for the diligent work of Borough President Gibson, her team, and applaud all involved in the work of MSK for celebrating and inspiring the next generation of young women leaders in the Bronx.”

Providing performances during the program were the South Bronx Academy of Applied Media Dance Team, the Songs of Solomon Inspirational Ensemble, with live music provided by DJ Perly.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON'S STATEMENT ON OPENING DAY

“With today being opening day, I am happy to welcome back baseball and look forward to the Yankees returning to Yankee Stadium on April 5th! With every spring comes the excitement of baseball and what the upcoming season may bring. Congratulations to the new additions to the Bronx Bombers: Marcus Stroman, Trent Grisham, Alex Verdugo, and, of course, Juan Soto, who joins an exciting group led by Aaron Judge, Anthony Rizzo, and last year’s Cy Young winner, Gerrit Cole. The Yankees are back and ready to go for their 28^th ring, so let’s go watch them do it!”

Dear Neighbor,

Thank you for joining us for another week in review.

Last week, we celebrated an announcement that the city has been awarded $77 million in competitive grants from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to expand the number of electric school buses and trucks on city streets.

With the expansion of our electric school buses and electric vehicle charging, we are making an investment in not just our EV infrastructure but in decreasing harmful environmental pollutants that, for years, have contributed to poor health outcomes for our most vulnerable residents in the Bronx.

As the city is working to grow our green economy with assistance from our federal partners, we will continue to work with our colleagues in government to ensure the Bronx is not left behind and that our communities also reap the benefits of this initiative.

Thank you to Mayor Adams and the federal government for their commitment to investing in our EV infrastructure.

Lastly, we are accepting donations for new/gently used prom dresses and suits for our high school seniors! You can drop off your donations at Bronx Borough Hall from 9 AM – 5 PM in room 206.

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 & BXEDC ANNOUNCE EXTENSION TO DEADLINE FOR BRONX WEEK'S “THE PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD IN HEALTHCARE” NEW DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS IS FRIDAY, MARCH 29TH AT 12:00 P.M.

Bronx, NY - On Tuesday, March 26, 2024, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, in partnership with the Bronx Economic Development Corporation, announced an extension in the deadline for Bronx residents to submit nominations for the “People’s Choice Award in Healthcare.” The new deadline is Friday, March 29^th, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. providing even more Bronx residents with the opportunity to choose the next “People’s Choice Award,” with the finalist to be inducted into the Bronx Walk of Fame on May 18^th, 2024.

To be eligible, nominees must have either been born in the Bronx or have strong ties to the borough. Furthermore, they must have surpassed expectations in their roles, made substantial contributions to healthcare, and showcased a commitment to community health, wellness, and education. To nominate your pick before March 29^th, at 12:00 p.m., go to ilovethebronx.com.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON HOSTS WOMEN’S HERSTORY MONTH CELEBRATION

Bronx, NY – On Wednesday, March 20th, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson partnered with Ponce Bank, NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln, SBH Health Systems, Verizon, and Fidelis Care, to host her annual Women’s Herstory Month celebration at the Grand Slam Banquet Hall located at 478 East Tremont Avenue.

Honorees for the evening were Founder of the South Bronx Academy for Applied Media in New York City, Dr. Roshone Ault Lee; President of Eugenio Maria de Hostos Community College, Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Ph.D., who is the first Dominican woman to serve as a CUNY college president. Also honored are the Executive Director of Green Bronx Machine, Lizette B. Ritz; and Vice President of Nursing Quality and Informatics, St. Barnabas Health Systems (SBH), Jacqueline A. Witter. Receiving the Youth Award was newly named National Stem Champion Treyonna Sullivan.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON HOSTS BRONX IFTAR DINNER DIALOGUE: BUILDING UNITY, PEACE, AND EMPOWERMENT New York City Council Member Yusef Salaam Served as Keynote Speaker

Bronx, NY – On Thursday, March 14th, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the Rotunda of Bronx Borough Hall, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson joined NYC Votes, Metroplus Health, ICNA Relief, the African Advisory Council, Fouta Halal Restaurants, Muslim advocates, faith leaders, and community partners for the annual Bronx Iftar Dinner Dialogue in commemoration of the Ramadan holiday. New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams; Chair of the Bronx Borough President`s African Advisory Council, Sidiki Donzo; and NYPD Clergy Outreach Unit Detective Mohamed Amen provided remarks along with other prominent community leaders in attendance. Council Member Yusef Salaam, whose council district in West Harlem has many Muslim residents, served as the Keynote Speaker, and the Bronx Islamic Center’s Executive Director, Yahay Obeid, served as emcee for the evening.

“It was an honor to join our Muslim community in fellowship at Bronx Borough Hall as we celebrated Ramadan at our Annual Iftar Dinner Dialogue and Conversation,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “I want to thank all of our honorees and everyone who played a role in making this event a success. We are proud to be home to one of our country’s largest and most diverse Muslim communities and appreciate their invaluable contributions to our borough.”

The honorees whom the Borough President recognized were Zara Kandic, a Volunteer with “Collective Work of Sisters”; Selma Mujovic, both teacher and secretary at the Bosniak Islamic Center and Director of “Collective Work of Sisters”; Yahay Obeid, Executive Director of the Bronx Islamic Center, and Air Traffic Controller with the Federal Aviation Administration; and Gbenga Subair, Founding Member of the Mayor’s NYC African Council, who is also a Member of Community Board 12’s Economic Committee. Also, Ramatu Ahmed, Founder and Executive Director of the African Life Center, was honored.

“Every New Yorker, no matter where they’re from, what neighborhood they live in, and what language they speak, should be able to engage meaningfully in our local democracy,” said SeQuoia King, Outreach Manager NYC Votes. “During Ramadan, a season of community and collective care, NYC Votes is honored to partner with the Bronx Borough President’s Office to provide education about upcoming elections and help members of the Community Iftar get registered to vote. The more New Yorkers who make their voices heard at the ballot box, the closer we can get to just and truly representative democracy.”

Over 200 guests participated in the evening’s dinner and discussion centered on ways to engage the Bronx’s diverse Muslim community.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON’S STATEMENT ON COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENT FOR HUMAN SERVICE WORKERS

“Today, we mark a significant milestone with a historic investment in our human service sector. Our human service workers and the labor they provide for our city are invaluable, and for years, they have been on the frontlines advocating for a cost-of-living adjustment. Many are women of color who already experience wage disparities despite providing vital services to our communities and contributing significantly to our city`s workforce. Every worker in our city deserves to be paid a livable wage and I want to thank Mayor Adams, the New York City Council, and labor advocates for reaffirming that right and their commitment to pay parity.”

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON HOSTS ANNUAL GARIFUNA HERITAGE MONTH CELEBRATION AT BOROUGH HALL

Bronx, NY - On Thursday, March 7, 2024, from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson joined Author Jose Francisco Aviles and The Garifuna Coalition, USA, Inc. for an evening celebrating Garifuna culture, tradition, and music in the Rotunda of Bronx Borough Hall.

The Garifuna people are the descendants of an Afro-indigenous population from the Caribbean Island of St. Vincent. Forced to flee in the 18th century, they settled along the Atlantic coast of Central America in the countries of Guatemala, Nicaragua, Belize, and Honduras where many continue to live today. In the 20th century, many began to migrate to the United States and settle in the Bronx, home to the largest Garifuna in the United States.

Dear Neighbor,

Thank you for joining us for another week in review.

In partnership with the Bronx Economic Development Corporation, we are searching for a healthcare professional in our borough who has demonstrated exceptional service to be added to our Bronx Walk of Fame alongside incredible Bronx luminaries. Click here to nominate a healthcare leader!

On Thursday, March 7th, we are hosting our Bronx Higher Education College Fair in partnership with our Bronx Higher Education Task Force at Bronx Community College. Perspective students will speak to representatives from various Bronx colleges and universities, obtain information on financial aid and scholarships, and learn more about workforce development and degree programs. Then in the evening, we are partnering with the Garifuna Coalition USA Inc. for our Annual Garifuna Heritage Month Celebration at Bronx Borough Hall for a night of fun and entertainment. We hope you can join us!

We are also excited to announce that our Community Board application deadline has been extended to Friday, March 8th. Please continue to encourage your friends, neighbors, and loved ones to apply. You can click here for more information.

Lastly, identity thieves are increasingly using devices known as “skimmers” that attach to ATMs or credit card machines and steal consumers’ credit card and PIN numbers. The device is typically a simple plastic sheath placed over the card slot that appears to be part of the machine and that reads the magnetic strip on your card and then transmits the account information or saves it until the device is retrieved. You can click here for more information on how to keep you and your families safe from potential credit card scams.

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 AND BRONX ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION ANNOUNCE BRONX WEEK'S “THE PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD IN HEALTHCARE”

Members of the public are invited to nominate healthcare workers with ties to the Bronx for inclusion on the Bronx Walk of Fame

Bronx, NY - On March 6, 2024, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson in partnership with the Bronx Economic Development Corporation, announced they are accepting nominations for the People’s Choice Award for the second time in Bronx Week history. This year’s award will spotlight healthcare workers, with the winner being inducted into the Bronx Walk of Fame during Bronx Week’s Induction Ceremony on Saturday, May 18th. 

“We are excited to announce the return of Bronx Week and our People’s Choice Award! Last year, we recognized a Bronx educator, and this year, we are accepting nominations for a healthcare professional from our borough who has demonstrated exceptional service worthy of being included as an inductee on our Bronx Walk of Fame. Recognizing our healthcare workers is an opportunity to honor those who have played a crucial role in improving the health and well-being of our communities. We invite nominations that highlight these healthcare professionals’ remarkable stories and accomplishments, showcasing their profound impact on our borough,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson.

“The Bronx Walk of Fame honors individuals who have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also made a noteworthy impact on the community,” said Rob Walsh, President of the Bronx Economic Development Corporation. “This year we are so happy to extend the opportunity to outstanding healthcare workers who have demonstrated dedication to the well- being of our Bronx community. It is not merely an acknowledgment of medical proficiency, but a celebration of the profound impact healthcare workers have in their communities.”

Since its inception in 1997, the Bronx Walk of Fame has provided a platform for Bronx natives and those closely connected to the borough to be celebrated for their work and contributions to their respective industries. Last year, BXEDC introduced the People’s Choice Award, focusing on educators. Luis Torres, principal of Community School 55, also known as the Benjamin Franklin School, emerged as the winner and earned his place on the Bronx Walk of Fame.

Nominations for the People’s Choice Award in Healthcare are being accepted through Monday, March 25 at 5:00 p.m. To be eligible, nominees must have either been born in the Bronx or have strong ties to the borough. Furthermore, they must have surpassed expectations in their roles, made substantial contributions to healthcare in the Bronx, and showcased a commitment to community health, wellness, and healthcare education. To nominate your pick, go to ilovethebronx.com.

Dear Neighbor,

Thank you for joining us for another week in review.

It’s official! We are excited to announce the return of Bronx Week and our People’s Choice Award! Last year, we recognized a Bronx educator, and this year, we are accepting nominations for a healthcare professional who has demonstrated exceptional service to be included on our Bronx Walk of Fame. Click here to nominate a healthcare leader!

The 2024 Borough Cultural Grant application portal is also open. This grant program supports New York City as a culturally vibrant destination by funding the marketing and promotion of not-for-profit arts and cultural programs in all five boroughs.

Eligibility:

1. All grant recipients must be registered as a 501(c)3 with the State of New York.

2. Applicants’ projects must fall primarily within calendar year 2024.

3. All recipients must be in compliance with prior funding requirements.

4. Projects eligible for funding under the program should be tourist-facing and shall include, but are not limited to, promotional materials for cultural institutions, programs, and events (i.e., paid media, print or digital content, and/or videos).

Funding Overview:

Grant awards are typically between $1,000 & $5,000 per organization. You can click here for more information.

Lastly, we want to thank Dr. Ruth Gottesman for announcing a $1 billion donation for the students at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine to receive free tuition. This is a significant announcement and investment in our Bronx students. Too often, the cost of tuition can prevent our residents from pursuing their dreams, but with this announcement, Dr. Ruth Gottesman is supporting the future generation of healthcare leaders.

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 HOSTS DOMINICAN REPUBLIC FLAG RAISING AT BRONX BOROUGH HALL Vice-Consul of the Dominican Republic Julio Cesar Mateo Swears-in Dominican New Yorkers

Bronx, NY – In recognition of the 180th anniversary of the independence of the Dominican Republic, on Monday, February 26, 2024, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson and Bronx Deputy Borough President Janet Peguero were joined by Vice-Consulate of the Dominican Republic in New York, Julio Cesar Mateo to raise the Dominican Republic flag for the first time, at Bronx Borough Hall.

Later in the Rotunda, United States Congress Member Adriano Espaillat joined in the festivities that included a swearing-in ceremony for several Dominican New Yorkers that became dual citizens. The event was sponsored by the Consulate of the Dominican Republic in New York and Univision. Noticias 41 Univision News Anchor Damaris Diaz served as emcee for both events.

Dear Neighbor,

Thank you for joining us for another week in review.

In partnership with our Bronx Higher Education Task Force, we are excited to announce the return of our Bronx Higher Education College Fair on March 7th at Bronx Community College. Perspective students will speak to representatives from various Bronx colleges and universities, obtain information on financial aid and scholarships, and learn more about workforce development and degree programs. Education can be the pathway to success, and we want to ensure our residents have the tools to pursue a higher education degree and potential career. Click here to register!

Our Community Board application is still live, and we are encouraging eligible candidates, 16 years or older, to apply to have a say in their community! Joining your local community board is one of the most direct forms of democracy in our city and can have a tremendous impact on your neighborhood. If you join your local community board, you will:

Gain valuable life skills and experience

Connect with like-minded peers

Make a positive impact on your community

Advocate for change

Click here to apply before the March 1^st deadline! Our application is available in English and Spanish.

Lastly, a reminder that it is heat season through May 31st. If you do not have heat or hot water in your apartment, please contact 311 immediately.

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 HOSTS 3RD ANNUAL DOMINICAN HERITAGE MONTH CELEBRATION

Bronx, NY – On Thursday, February 22, 2024, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson joined Ponce Bank, MetroPlus, and Verizon in celebration of her 3rd annual Dominican Heritage Month event at Maestros Catering Hall located at 1703 Bronxdale Avenue, in the Morris Park section of the Bronx.

The festivities included live entertainment provided by Iconos Kids, La Jara Band and DJ Lex of Stylistics. Providing the keynote address was Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives, Ana Almanzar, and 41Univision Anchor, Yeila Lluberes, served as emcee.

Honorees recognized were Board Certified Internist with NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln, Dr. Carmen Oviedo Hilario, MD; Educator, Dr. Altagracia Villalona; Founder of Don Carvajal Café, Hector Carvajal; Registered Nurse and Frontline worker during COVID-19, New York State Assembly Member Karines Reyes; 2024 finalist in the FINALISTA AL PREMIO NACIONAL DE LA JUVENTUD in the Dominican Republic, Steven Monegro Gilbert; and 1st Latino Executive Chef for Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, German Eladio Rijo.  Receiving a Youth Award was Xiara Cruz from the Bronx School of Law and Finance.

The festivities continue Monday, February 26th from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Borough Hall located at 851 Grand Concourse with the first-ever raising of the Dominican Republic flag followed by a ceremony in the Rotunda where 70 Dominican – Americans will be sworn in as United States citizens.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT VANESSA L. GIBSON JOINS WINDOWS OF HIP HOP TO HOST THE 2024 ELEMENT OF HIP HOP AWARDS AT SALSA CON FUEGO

Bronx, N.Y. – On Wednesday, February 21st, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson joined Windows of Hip Hop CEO Melissa Lebron for the annual Element of Hip Hop Awards at Salsa Con Fuego located at 2297 Cedar Avenue that featured husband and wife team, April Hernandez Castillo, star of the award-winning film, Freedom Writers and Jose Castillo who served as emcees; with appearances by Hip Hop legends, Grand Master Caz and Grand Master Melle Mel and a performance by Comedian Rob Stapleton, among others.

The 2024 Windows of Hip Hop honorees are enthusiasts who have contributed so much to the community, the culture, and the widespread growth of the most powerful genre of music to be born in New York City.

They are KAREN “KAY LOVE” PEDROSA, a graffiti artist, muralist, advocate, and educator based in the Bronx whose amazing work can be seen throughout New York. ACU “DJ ACE” RHODES, a retired NYPD Officer and old-school Hip Hop DJ who has been featured and promoted on LL COOL J’s Rock the Bells Radio! and is also a DJ Instructor to all ages. KAYVON THIBODEAUX is currently the #5 New York Giants linebacker in the National Football League. He gives back by visiting schools, sharing his wisdom with the students, and teaming up with Campbell’s Foods to feed needy families. EDWARD “SPECIAL ED” ARCHER, originally from Brooklyn, is a rapper, producer, and founder of his youth education enterprise called, Special Ed Music. He visits different schools sharing his curriculum. LEON ROBINSON is an Academy acclaimed actor from the award-winning movies, The Temptations, The Five Heart Beats, Waiting to Exhale, Cool Running, the model in the iconic music video with Madonna and received an Academy nomination for his portrayal of legendary singer, pianist and songwriter, Little Richard, in the film, Little Richard released in 2007. LISA “LISA LISA” VELEZ is a legendary singer and trailblazer in freestyle and R&B and the first Latina/pioneer of Latin Hip Hop. Lisa donates her time organizing, hosting, and performing for several charitable events.

Sponsors include BULOVA, CAZAL, Salsa Con Fuego Restaurant, The Bronx Community Foundation, Graham Windham, The Office of the Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, Bronx Native, New York Men Teach, BRONXMAMA.com, GMC Entertainment, PSI BETA SIGMA (The Bronx Chapter), BRONXNET, WCS Bronx Zoo, NYPD, and PS 55 of The Bronx.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR HOSTS 2ND ANNUAL BRONX CAREER FAIR

Bronx, NY – On Thursday, February 15, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson partnered with the New York State Department of Labor for the second annual Bronx Career Fair in the Rotunda of Bronx Borough Hall located at 851 Grand Concourse where over 500 job seekers registered to meet with recruiters.

While the latest figures show unemployment in the county at 6.60%, down from 6.9% in 2022 and 10.30% in 2021, the goal of this event was to connect job seekers with potential employers that included Amida Care, New York City Transit, Acacia Network, Bronx Pro Group, BronxWorks, Carpenter Contractors Alliance of Metropolitan New York, Hot Bread Kitchen, the New York State Department of Corrections and Community.

During the 4-hour event, residents spoke directly with representatives from hospitality and tech industries, emergency services, public safety, healthcare services, education, and social service agencies The Deputy Bronx Borough President Janet Peguero attended on behalf of the Bronx Borough President.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON’S STATEMENT ON TRAGIC SHOOTING INCIDENT AT MT. EDEN TRAIN STATION

“Heartbreaking news out of our Mount Eden community. Monday evening, we learned of a horrific shooting in our subway system. Sadly, six commuters were injured and one adult has passed away. We are thankful for the swift response of our first responders and transit officials. An investigation is ongoing to identify those persons involved in this shooting.

We send our condolences to the family and loved ones of the commuter who lost his life. No one deserves to lose their life senselessly anywhere and certainly while using our subway system. We send prayers of healing and recovery to those commuters who were injured.

Our office remains in contact with our elected officials, NYPD, and the MTA and will continue to advocate for our residents and families to be safe. Public safety is an expectation that all New Yorkers deserve. This violence should never be normalized.

We encourage anyone with information on last night’s shooting in Mount Eden to please contact the authorities at 1-800-577-TIPS. All calls are kept confidential.”

Dear Neighbor,

Thank you for joining us for another week in review.

Tomorrow is National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, and we are sounding the alarm on the increase of new HIV diagnoses we are seeing in our Black and Latino communities in the Bronx. Even as we have made significant strides in ending the epidemic, disparities continue to persist. According to data released by the New York City Health Department, in 2022, 1,624 people were newly diagnosed with HIV. Forty-three percent (43%) of newly diagnosed people were Black, and 40% were Latino/Hispanic. We are calling for additional testing in communities of color because we know testing can save lives. If you or someone you know would like to get tested, click here for more information.

Our Community Board application is live, and we are urging Bronxites to apply now to join their local community board! We fulfilled a promise last year to create a digital application in English and Spanish to make the process easier and more accessible so our community boards can truly reflect the diversity of our borough. You will get to advocate for the needs of your community and hear directly from city agencies. Click here for more information!

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 HOSTS HER 3RD ANNUAL BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATION

Bronx, NY- On Wednesday, February 7th, 2024, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson hosted her Black History Month celebration at Eastwood Manor located at 3371 Eastchester Road in the Eastchester section of the Bronx. The evening, recognizing the richness of African American culture and history in the borough, featured special performances by The Harlem Group Ensemble, and Renaissance HS Varsity Voices.

Receiving the Aurelia Greene Memorial Award was Principal Administrative Associate of NYC Administration for Children’s Services, Shirley Williams Myrie, who is celebrating her 70th year as a New York City employee. The Bronx native who began her career in 1953, was joined by her family and ACS Commissioner Jess Dannhauser, who hailed her years of dedication to the city as a public servant.

Also honored was President/CEO of Soul Snacks Cookies, Ralph Rolle, whose product, once a staple at local bodegas in the 1990’s, is now being sold at Krogers and Walmart stores across the country. Recently featured in People Magazine and Fortune Magazine, Rolle who once baked out of the kitchen of his apartment at the Bronx River Houses, will soon be partnering with former White House pastry chef under the Obama Administration, Bill Yosses, to start a culinary School based in the Soundview section.

Executive Director of New Settlement, Rigaud Yves Noel, has served in senior and executive management positions at non-profits across New York City over the last two decades and credited his Haitian-born parents who, despite financial challenges, sent him to Catholic school to ensure his future success in the workforce.

Tenant Association President and Family Enrichment Center Director at the Bronx River Houses, Norma Saunders, was also recognized for her tireless work in advocating for youth and adults in public housing. A Youth Award was given to the Renaissance HS Varsity Voices, and PIX 11’s Arrianee LeBeau served as MC for the event.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON, COUNCIL MEMBER SANCHEZ & MORRIS HEIGHTS HEALTH CENTER RECOGNIZE NATIONAL BLACK HIV/AIDS AWARENESS DAY

ANNOUNCE ACTION STEPS TO REDUCE THE DISPROPORTIONATELY HIGH NUMBER OF HIV/AIDS DIAGNOSES IN COMMUNITIES OF COLOR 

Bronx, NY – On Tuesday, February 6th, 2024, at 3:00 p.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson was joined by New York City Council Member Pierina Sanchez; Chief Medical Officer of Morris Heights Health Center, Dr. Lois Bookhardt; Destination Tomorrow, and health advocates representing the Bronx’s LGBTQIA+ community to recognize National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. The elected officials and healthcare advocates called for a strategy to address some of the findings in the recently released 2022 HIV Surveillance Annual Report by the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene that show that while progress has been made towards ending the HIV epidemic in New York City, inequities persist in Black and Latino communities.

Among the findings:

· 1,624 people were newly diagnosed with HIV in 2022. Forty-three percent (43%) of newly diagnosed people were Black and 40% were Latino/Hispanic.

· Of all women newly diagnosed with HIV in 2022, 84% were Black or Latina/Hispanic. In the same report, of all men newly diagnosed, 83% were Black or Latino/Hispanic.

· Forty-one percent (41%) of newly diagnosed people lived in high or very-high-poverty ZIP codes at the time of diagnosis.

· In the same report, of all men newly diagnosed, 83% were Black or Latino/Hispanic.

· Forty-nine percent (49%) of newly diagnosed people overall and 62% among men were among men who have sex with men.

Neighborhood Break-Down:

· Central Harlem–Morningside Heights and Hunts Point–Mott Haven had the highest HIV diagnosis rates in 2022.

· Chelsea–Clinton, Crotona–Tremont, and High Bridge–Morrisania had the highest HIV prevalence in NYC.

· Kingsbridge–Riverdale, Port Richmond, and Rockaway had the highest mortality rates among people with HIV.

“As a borough and as a city, we have made significant strides in ending the epidemic, but we know our work is not done,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “The data is clear –stark disparities in care remain in communities of color that we must take immediate action to address. We do this by working with our credible messengers who understand the unique needs of their patients, increasing access to testing in at-risk communities, and by making PrEP and PEP accessible and affordable for all. In partnership with our LGBTQIA+ Task Force, HIV Roundtable, colleagues in government, community partners, and healthcare advocates, we are committed to eliminating barriers that prevent our residents from receiving potentially life-saving care. Thank you to Council Member Sanchez, Morris Heights Health Center, Destination Tomorrow, The Bronx ETE Regional Committee, Amida Care, Anthony Randolph, and everyone else for working with us to end this epidemic and ensure our most vulnerable residents are not forgotten.”

“The Bronx suffers from the highest rates of HIV across New York State’s 62 counties, and sexually transmitted infection rates are at unacceptably high rates among vulnerable groups in our city. By making rapid testing services available throughout the city and educating New Yorkers, my soon-to-be reintroduced bill will work to reduce infection rates and save lives. It is time to ensure everyone has access to the services they need,” said Council Member Pierina Sanchez. “I am looking forward to continuing to work alongside community partners, MHHC, the Borough President, and a long line of advocates in emphasizing the importance of continuing to invest in proven strategies to combat disparities and this epidemic effectively.”

“In the Bronx, the impact of HIV/AIDS on the black community is undeniable, and on this Day of Action, MHHC reaffirms its dedication to driving change,” said Dr. Lois Bookhardt, Chief Medical Officer of Morris Heights Health Center. “Through proactive initiatives, MHHC extends a lifeline to individuals by providing routine care and treatment to keep people with HIV healthy, accessible screenings, distributing self-test kits, and offering a wealth of educational resources. Our goal is not only to raise awareness but to actively combat the spread of HIV/AIDS, ensuring that our community is informed, protected, and supported. Together, let us make strides toward a healthier future for all.”

“The data shows that in 2022 the most impacted communities of new HIV/AIDS diagnoses are those that identify as Black and Brown men and women,” said Sean Coleman, Executive Director of Destination Tomorrow. “As a direct service provider, our goal is to address these disparities and new diagnoses with services that address the root causes. Safe, affordable housing is HIV prevention. Earning a livable wage is HIV prevention, having access to healthy food is HIV prevention.”

“I have lived with HIV for over two decades. Years ago, I was homeless, isolated, and in and out of the hospital. Luckily, I was able to get the support I needed through Amida Care, a Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan, to get the care and medication I needed to become virally suppressed. My HIV is now undetectable, and I help others like me take control of their health. Getting tested to know your HIV status gives you the power to live your best life,” said Anthony Randolph. Amida care member & Bronx resident.

The Borough President and Council Member joined advocates and community leaders to call for additional testing in at-risk communities, the increased availability of PrEP and PEP, and the need for credible messengers who are culturally competent, language-diverse, and understand the unique needs of the communities they serve. At the event, the Borough President also announced working with Link NYC to get resources shared on their kiosks in neighborhoods with the highest rate of new HIV diagnoses in the borough and working with her HIV Roundtable and LGBTQIA+ Task Force to disseminate information and develop public policy recommendations to combat this epidemic. Council Member Sanchez announced she would be reintroducing her bill in the City Council that would require rapid STI/STD testing in high-risk communities.

The Borough President also proclaimed February 7th as National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day in the borough of the Bronx.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON’S STATEMENT ON INCIDENT AT BRONX BOROUGH HALL

Yesterday, an image was illegally projected across Bronx Borough Hall stating “Fund the Bronx not War. Free Palestine.”

“Yesterday, a group of unknown individuals displayed an image across Bronx Borough Hall who are not associated or affiliated with our office or the courthouse. This was done without our prior knowledge or consent, and we have made the proper authorities aware of this incident. Reckless acts like this pose an unnecessary distraction to law enforcement, diverting their attention from emergencies and compromising the safety of our community. This nonsensical stunt served no purpose other than to satisfy the impulsivity of an immature few. We refuse to be intimated by threats or bullying tactics and we reject intolerance in any form.”

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON'S STATEMENT ON VOTE TO MOVE JUST HOME PROJECT FORWARD

“This past Thursday, NYC Health + Hospitals (H+H) voted to move forward on the Just Home project at Jacobi Hospital. After months of hearing from local residents, it is clear that the community does not want this project to proceed. We have heard numerous concerns about how this will affect the safety and well-being of people living in the neighborhood, and, while H+H and the Fortune Society have made efforts to mitigate these concerns, it is clear not enough has been done for the community to feel comfortable with this project.

Unfortunately, I have seen some of the opposition to this project devolve into rude and threatening behavior, thinly veiled racism, and unacceptable vitriol. I was particularly concerned to see serious inappropriate behavior and rhetoric at the Bronx Community Board 11 meeting to discuss this project that was not reflective of our borough and must not be how we express our support or opposition to city proposals.

Over the two years I have been Borough President, I am proud to have supported the creation of hundreds of units of housing in our borough. Every community must contribute to the creation of more housing for our city to successfully combat the housing crisis. However, I believe that housing must be contextual to the neighborhood. What works in one part of the city does not necessarily work in another. I also believe that there are better uses for this land.

The location on Jacobi’s campus is underutilized, and, instead of being used for this project, it should instead be developed in ways that benefit the community as a whole. Our team heard numerous ideas from community members for how to better utilize this space, including calls for a women’s health center with a focus on maternal health and domestic violence or for the return of a blood center in the Bronx. We have also heard calls for more community space, a youth center, or housing for seniors or veterans that would cater to their unique medical needs. I do not believe these alternatives were adequately explored before the decision to move forward with the Just Home proposal.

The overall goal of H+H and the Fortune Society is positive, and the city must do more to find permanent housing solutions for formally incarcerated New Yorkers, particularly those who would otherwise be unhoused. However, I do not believe this project at this particular site is the correct way to move forward, and therefore, I cannot support it at this time.”

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON PARTNERS WITH THE BRONX ZOO TO HOST A FIRE SAFETY TRAINING WORKSHOP FDNY PRESENTED THE LATEST ON FIRE SAFETY AND PREVENTION

Bronx, NY – On Saturday, January 27^th, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, in partnership with the Wildlife Conservation Society, and the NYC Fire Department, hosted a free Fire Safety Training Workshop at the Bronx Zoo located at 2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, New York 10457. The event is part of a series of workshops announced by the Borough President at the start of this year to educate the public on fire safety, targeting seniors, public housing residents, and other at-risk populations.

“We are grateful to the FDNY and our community partners for joining us this winter here at the Bronx Zoo for the relaunch of our Fire Safety Education Workshop series,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “In the Bronx, we have seen more than our fair share of fires that have led to families being displaced and communities forever changed. We are working strategically to get this potentially life-saving information out to those who need it the most and equip our residents with the tools to keep themselves and their families safe.”

“We were honored at the Bronx Zoo to serve as a gathering place for Bronx families by hosting a fire safety event with Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson and the FDNY,” said John Calvelli, WCS Executive Vice President of Public Affairs. “Fires have a long history of devastation in the Bronx and it is more important than ever that residents are informed with the knowledge and resources to protect themselves, their families and their homes.”

Close to 50 participants, including children, were gathered inside the Schiff Family Great Hall for the workshop that addressed how to escape house fires, the importance of using a strip cord, how to receive free fire and carbon monoxide alarms installed by the American Red Cross, and other fire preventive information.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON HOSTS FIRE SAFETY TRAINING WORKSHOP AT R.A.I.N. PARKCHESTER OLDER ADULTS CENTER

FDNY TO PRESENT LATEST ON FIRE SAFETY TRAINING

For Photos, click here.

Bronx, NY – On Thursday, January 25^th, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., the Office of the Bronx Borough President joined Dr. Anderson Torres, President and CEO of R.A.I.N. (Regional Aid for Interim Needs), and the NYC Fire Department to host a Fire Safety Training Workshop with 60 seniors that were gathered at R.A.I.N. Parkchester Older Adults Center located at 1380 Metropolitan Avenue. There, they heard about fire safety, prevention, and how to obtain free fire and carbon-monoxide alarms that can be installed by the NYC Fire Department at no cost. This event is part of a series of workshops announced by Borough President Gibson at the start of this year to educate the public on fire safety, targeting seniors, public housing residents, and other at-risk communities.

“I want to thank our community partners for joining us this winter for the relaunch of our Fire Safety Education Workshop series,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “We know these resources are essential to keeping our residents and families safe and to prevent the next tragic fire from occurring in our borough.”

The next Fire Safety Training Workshop is scheduled for January 27, 2024 at the Bronx Zoo’s Schiff Family Hall from 11am to 1:00 p.m. Participants will receive a free ticket to the Bronx Zoo and admission to one free exhibit.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON’S STATEMENT ON MAYOR ADAMS’ STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS

“Mayor Eric Adams’ State of the City address outlined a bold vision for what our city can become over the next year. With many important projects on our agenda this year, including reimagining the Kingsbridge Armory, investments in our parks and open spaces, the Metro-North Penn Access Project, the Hip-Hop Museum and the Hunts Point Food Distribution Center and much more, we must come together to ensure that these projects work for all of the residents of our communities. The Mayor spoke about prosperity for all New Yorkers, and these projects will be a large part of that agenda for The Bronx.

The Bronx has faced historical challenges that we continue to strive to overcome. Joining with the Mayor and the City Council, I know that we will be able to eliminate many of the barriers that still remain and affect many vulnerable Bronxites. We must also recognize our aging infrastructure and most recently, the increases in fires and building collapses. I will continue to advocate for more robust building inspections, more action to combat low quality lithium-ion batteries, and more engagement with our residents to ensure that these tragedies are prevented.”

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON LAUNCHES 2024 COMMUNITY BOARD APPLICATIONS DIGITAL APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH

FULFILLS PROMISE FROM STRATEGIC POLICY STATEMENT OF IMPROVING APPLICATION PROCESS

Bronx, NY – Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, in prioritizing fairness, equity, and broader participation that mirrors the diversity within all 12 Community Boards, encouraged Bronx residents to apply for their local Community Board. For the 2nd year in a row, digital applications are available in both English and Spanish for interested applicants.

“Our community board members play a crucial role in our democracy by advocating on behalf of their neighbors and by being the voice of their communities,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “The community boards represent the rich diversity of our borough, and we are excited this year to once again launch our digital application. We encourage everyone eligible to apply to please do so and share the information with their friends and family.”

Annually, the Bronx Borough President`s Office accepts applications from city residents who reside, work, and/or have professional or other significant interests in the borough. In years prior, applications had to be hand-delivered or mailed to Bronx Borough Hall, but in fulfilling her promise to revamp the Community Board application, the Gibson administration made the applications available online to increase accessibility and encourage more applicants to apply.

The Borough President has also pushed for youth membership on community boards by encouraging students 16 or older to apply during school visits, held a new member orientation and swearing-in ceremony with workshops from city agencies, honored Parks Committee Chairs for their commitment to environmental justice advocacy at the first-ever Annual Community Board Appreciation BBQ, and the Deputy Borough President delivered testimony before the New York City Council Committee on Governmental Operations to advocate for more technical support for Community Boards and an updated Community Board Handbook.

The deadline to submit your application is Friday, March 1, 2024, on the Borough President`s website.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON'S STATEMENT ON THE 51ST ANNIVERSARY OF ROE V. WADE RULING

“The overturning of Roe v. Wade was an injustice for millions of women across the country, but we are determined now more than ever to continue the fight for reproductive justice. Even as states across the country attempt to pass anti-choice legislation, criminalize a woman’s right to bodily autonomy, and undo years of progress that was made in the fight for reproductive freedom- in the Bronx, we remain committed to fighting for safe and accessible abortion care for women across our borough.”

Reproductive and sexual health resources can be found here on the Borough President’s website.

Dear Neighbor,

Thank you for joining us for another week in review.

January is National Blood Donor Month, and we are experiencing a blood shortage citywide that could impact thousands of New Yorkers. We are urging our neighbors to join us this Monday at Borough Hall for our Blood Drive in partnership with the New York Blood Center to donate blood and potentially save a life.

Nervous about donating? Here are the facts:

✅62% of the U.S. is eligible to donate, yet only 3% do.

✅Donating blood only takes about an hour.

✅To make an appointment or if you are unsure, you can donate blood, call 1-800-933-2566 or visit nybc.org.

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

The Adams administration announced they were restoring funding to the FDNY, NYPD, the NYC Department of Sanitation, the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, the New York City Department of Education`s Community Schools, and the Summer Rising initiative.

While supporting these restorations, we are calling on the administration to reconsider any proposed cuts to the Department of Buildings. Last week’s collapse of a 150-foot retaining wall in the Mount Hope neighborhood and last month’s partial collapse at 1915 Billingsley Terrace in Morris Heights underscores the importance of our City agencies and why we must not haphazardly reduce their operating budgets.

Any cuts to an agency tasked with the responsibility of overseeing our city’s infrastructure potentially puts our families at risk and is something we cannot afford to do.

Below is the full statement we released last Friday in response to the Mayor`s announcement.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON ANNOUNCES RELAUNCH OF BRONX FIRE SAFETY WORKSHOPS

Targeted Outreach to Vulnerable Populations

Bronx, NY – Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, in partnership with the New York City Fire Department, announces a relaunch of her fire safety education workshop series with a focus on public housing residents, seniors, and other at-risk populations. This announcement comes a week after the 2 -year anniversary of the tragic Twin Parks North West fire that claimed the lives of 17 people, and a series of fires that have followed, including three deadly fires that occurred a few days before the start of the New Year.

“I want to thank the FDNY and our community partners for joining us this winter for the relaunch of our Fire Safety Education Workshop series,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “In the Bronx, we have seen more than our fair share of fires that have led to families being displaced and communities forever changed. We are working strategically to get this potentially life-saving information out to those who need it the most and equip our residents with the tools to keep themselves and their families safe.”

Quote from the FDNY

“Fire safety education is critically important to all New Yorkers, as they need to learn and understand the tips that will protect them in the event of a fire. The FDNY is happy to partner with Borough President Gibson on such an important public safety initiative, and we know these workshops will literally save lives,” said New York City Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanaugh.

The office initiated these workshops two years ago with community organizations to combat the rise in residential fires in the borough through fire safety education and awareness. Additionally, the Borough President joined with the American Red Cross for their “Sound the Alarm “Campaign with a PSA emphasizing the importance of a functioning smoke alarm in preventing a potential fire while partnering with them to install smoke alarms, free of charge, in residents’ homes.

The Borough President also joined with Council Member Oswald Feliz in passing Introduction 104-A and 105-A in the New York City Council to strengthen legislation surrounding self-closing doors and presented testimony at a congressional hearing in support of federal legislation sponsored by Congressman Ritchie Torres with Senator Gillibrand to authorize the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) to conduct on-site fire safety investigations of major fires and other under other specified circumstances.

In March of 2023, Congressman Torres also introduced the “Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-ion Batteries Act” to address the spike in lithium-ion battery fires that increased from 219 in 2022 to 267 in 2023. The legislation requires that the Consumer Products Safety Commission establish a final consumer product safety standard for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used for personal mobility devices.

“Our hearts go out to all those impacted by the recent string of fires we experienced this last holiday season in the Bronx,” said New York City Council Member Oswald Feliz. “The loss of life comes on the heels of the 2nd anniversary of the Twin Parks fire, which was the worst fire in recent New York history. The Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson and I have worked together to strengthen fire safety through legislation that enforces self-closing door policies – to ensure another similar tragedy never happens again. But there are still many steps that must be taken to protect New Yorkers from these fires. This is why I am proud to work with and support the Borough President’s fire safety education workshop series, where fire safety education, fire alarms, and alarm installation services will be provided to residents of the Bronx.”

“Too many lives have been needlessly lost to preventable fires in the Bronx. From the Twin Parks North fire to Belmont, it’s become inescapably clear that we need to do targeted outreach to vulnerable populations like seniors and residents of public housing,” said U.S. Rep. Ritchie Torres (NY-15). “Fire safety must be a shared responsibility, and these workshops play a crucial role in empowering individuals to protect themselves and their neighbors. I applaud Borough President Gibson for her leadership in addressing this urgent issue and working to ensure the well-being of Bronx residents.”

The Borough President`s office is urging anyone interested in finding out more about the Bronx Fire Safety Education Workshop series or interested in scheduling one in their community to call the Office of the Bronx Borough President at (718) 590-3500. To get a fire alarm installed in your apartment, home or at your workplace, free of charge, call (877) RED-CROSS (option 5).

Targeted Outreach to Vulnerable Populations

Quote from the FDNY

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON’S STATEMENT ON THE GOVERNOR’S EXECUTIVE BUDGET

Bronx, NY – “The Governor’s Executive budget presents an important opportunity to provide a blueprint that prioritizes the needs of all New Yorkers. The budget proposal will expand health coverage, state aid to our schools, and tackle some of the most pressing challenges we face, including the mental health crisis, the housing affordability crisis, and public safety concerns. I particularly applaud the governor’s commitment to ensuring that the neediest among us are able to get the services that they need, particularly when it comes to Medicaid. The Governor and Legislature’s work to secure additional federal funding has been essential to this. Additionally, funding flood mitigation efforts, investing in our transit system, and cracking down on unlicensed cannabis retailers are common-sense ideas that will benefit all New Yorkers. I look forward to the Legislature and the Governor passing a final budget over the next several weeks, and I will work with our partners in Albany to ensure that it achieves the best outcomes for Bronxites.”

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON HOSTS COMMUNITY INTERFAITH SERVICE IN HONOR OF REV. DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

Bronx, NY — On Monday, January 15, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson hosted a service honoring the legacy of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in partnership with News 12 The Bronx and Union Grove Missionary Baptist Church located at 1488 Reverend Dr. Fletcher C. Crawford Way.

“Dr. King dreamed of a better world and fought tirelessly to bring that dream to fruition. He was a pioneer whose shoulders we proudly stand on and we are proud to continue his fight for racial equity and justice for all,” said Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “Thank you to Union Grove Missionary Baptist Church, our guest speakers, my colleagues in government, and everyone else who joined us as we celebrated the life and legacy of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.”

Minister Michael Blake served as Master of Ceremonies, Reverend Dr. Stephen A. Green, Pastor of St. Lukes A.M.E. Church in Harlem, delivered the keynote address, and Reverend Frederick Crawford, Senior Pastor at Union Grove Missionary Baptist Church, provided closing remarks. The theme for this year’s event was, “Born For This Day.”

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON’S STATEMENT ON MAYOR ADAMS’ FUNDING RESTORATIONS

“I want to thank Mayor Eric Adams and the Administration for the restoration of funding to the FDNY, the NYPD, the New York City Department of Sanitation, the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, Community Schools and Summer Rising for our youth. We know that any cuts to city services would disproportionately affect the Bronx at a time in which our residents need these services the most.”

“While supporting these restorations, the Adams Administration must reconsider any proposed cuts to the Department of Buildings` operating budget. This week’s collapse of a 150-foot retaining wall holding up a two-story residential building that fell on the roof of an auto body shop in the Mount Hope section and last month’s partial collapse at 1915 Billingsley Terrace in the Morris Heights section causing the residents there to be displaced underscore the importance of our City agencies and why we must not haphazardly reduce their operating budgets. Any cuts to an agency tasked with the responsibility of overseeing our city’s infrastructure potentially puts our families at risk and is something we cannot afford to do given our aging housing stock. We need additional housing inspectors and enhanced training to ensure they have the tools to successfully operate and keep New Yorkers safe. Tenants have a fundamental right to feel safe in their homes, and we do that by ensuring our agencies have the support that they need to be successful.”

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON`S RESPONSE TO GOVERNOR HOCHUL`S STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS

Local Law 12 of 2023 requires every New York City agency to develop and implement a five-year accessibility plan, in consultation with the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD). The legislation mandates that the accessibility plans outline the steps agencies are taking to “ensure that the agency’s workplace, services, programs and activities are accessible to and accommodating and inclusive of persons with disabilities” by improving physical, digital, and programmatic access, and providing effective communications for persons with disabilities.

The Office of the Bronx Borough President and other agencies were required to post their proposed plan on their public website for public comment and post the final plans incorporating this feedback on March 15, 2024.

Our proposed plans are now available for public comment online and can be viewed here: 5-Year

Anyone can comment on the proposed plan by:

Email: You can email comments to accessibility@bronxbp.nyc.gov with the subject line: Accessibility Plan.
Website: Bronx Borough President’s Office – Agency Accessibility Plans (cityofnewyork.us)
Mail: David Coulibaly,

Director of Community Affairs & DSF

851 Grand Concourse Room 207

Bronx, NY 10451

THE DEADLINE TO SUBMIT WRITTEN COMMENTS IS FEBRUARY 16, 2024

Please contact our Community Services Unit at accessibility@bronxbp.nyc.gov to provide feedback on this plan or to share other ideas that would enhance our ability to serve people with disabilities.

“In her 2024 State of the State address, Governor Kathy Hochul outlined a bold agenda with initiatives that align with the priorities put forth in our strategic policy statement to build a better and stronger Bronx. From healthcare to housing discrimination, employment for historically marginalized New Yorkers, public safety, swimming access, and so much more that will help eliminate barriers that have often affected our most at-risk residents.

With health being a central pillar of my administration, I am proud to have a partner in Albany who understands the importance of holistic wraparound services that care for New Yorkers’ mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. By establishing the first-in-the-nation statewide paid prenatal leave and expanding access to doula services, Governor Hochul is prioritizing the well-being of our mothers; particularly Black mothers in our borough who are disproportionately affected by high rates of maternal and infant mortality. This is a crisis that requires partners at all levels of government to combat and alongside our Maternal Health Consortium, something we will continue to fight against.

New York is also experiencing a housing crisis with many of our residents struggling to find safe and quality housing. Under the Governor`s proposal, there would be incentives for the construction of affordable housing and increased protections for low-income New Yorkers with Section 8 vouchers. As we are seeing increased development in the Bronx, it is our priority to ensure our residents can afford to live and raise their families here. This plan will help ensure the creation, preservation, and improvement of affordable housing across our state.

Governor Hochul also outlined flood resiliency plans for our homeowners as the prevalence of coastal storms increases, investments in gender-affirming care, and improving health services for our veterans that I believe will make our Borough, City, and State stronger. I thank Governor Hochul for outlining this important agenda for our State and look forward to working with Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, and our State Colleagues to ensure the Bronx has the resources and programs needed to uplift our families and strengthen our communities.”

Dear Neighbor,

Thank you for joining us for another week in review.

The New York City Emergency Management Department has updated its Travel Advisory for the evening of Tuesday, January 9 into Wednesday morning, January 10, 2024, as a strong storm impacts the region.

A Flood Watch remains in effect citywide from 6:00 p.m. today to 12:00 p.m. Wednesday. Rain may start off light this afternoon with heavy rain developing in the evening and continuing through early Wednesday morning. The heaviest rainfall is expected between 9:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m., with spotty showers possible through about noon.

A Coastal Flood Statement has been issued for the Bronx and northern Queens from 7:00 p.m. to midnight tonight.

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

We also advise you to please exercise caution if you are traveling outside and follow Notify NYC for updates on the storm. Our office will continue to provide updates as we receive them.

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

BRONX BOROUGH PRESIDENT`S OFFICE HOSTS WREATH LAYING CEREMONY TO COMMEMORATE 2-YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF DEADLY TWIN PARKS FIRE

Bronx, NY – On Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., The Office of the Bronx Borough President was joined by members of the community to host a wreath-laying ceremony at Borough Hall to remember the 17 residents whose lives were lost during a deadly fire at Twin Parks North West. The five-alarm fire that occurred the morning of January 9^th, 2022, has been called New York City’s deadliest in over 30 years.

“It`s been 2 years since the horrific fire at Twin Parks North West, and our borough continues to mourn,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “We will never forget the 17 lives lost on this day, the families of those who were impacted by this tragedy, the bravery of our first responders, and the support from our city agencies, community organizations, colleagues in government, hip-hop artists and others who showed up for our neighbors during our borough`s greatest time of need. Twin Parks was a painful reminder of the work needed to invest in fire safety education and our city`s housing infrastructure so families are provided with safe and quality housing and we prevent a tragedy of this magnitude from ever happening again.

“On this day, two years later, we honor, we reflect, and we remember. Let us keep the families of Twin Parks in our prayers and never forget those we lost.”

In addition to a wreath-laying ceremony, flags were flown at half-staff outside Bronx Borough Hall.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON HOSTS SECOND ANNUAL THREE KINGS DAY CELEBRATION

Bronx, NY – On Friday, January 5th, 2024, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson joined Latino theater company, Teatro SEA; Bronx Care Health System; ProHealth Connect; Phipps Neighborhoods; the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development; and the Transport Workers Union of America, to host a Three Kings Day celebration with close to 300 children from the community in attendance. The event took place from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Sotomayor Cornerstone Community Center located at 1000 Rosedale Avenue in the Soundview section.

Also known as the Epiphany, and celebrated in parts of Europe, the Caribbean, and Latin America, Three Kings Day falls each year on January 6th, marking the twelfth day of Christmas. It recognizes the biblical tale of three kings named Melchior, Casper, and Balthazar who traveled from the East to bear gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the infant Jesus in Bethlehem. The tradition is celebrated today with children leaving their shoes or shoe boxes at their front door or under their bed overnight, to see them filled with gifts the next morning by the Three Kings.

The celebration included performances from the Three Wise Men courtesy of Teatro SEA and over 300 gifts were distributed at the event.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON`S STATEMENT ON ASSEMBLYWOMAN LATOYA JOYNER`S RESIGNATION FROM THE NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY

“I have known Assemblywoman Latoya Joyner for over fifteen years, and it has been an absolute honor working alongside her on behalf of the residents of Assembly District 77 and seeing her grow as a leader and public servant.

During her tenure as Chair of the Labor Committee in the New York State Assembly, she was a tireless advocate for pay parity, wage justice, workers’ rights, unions, and employment protections for our most marginalized New Yorkers and was influential in bringing salary transparency to our state. She has left an indelible mark on our communities and undoubtedly will be missed by all of us in the Bronx.

As a mentee of the late great Assemblywoman Aurelia Greene, who prepared us both for careers in public service, I know Mrs. Greene’s legacy will continue to guide and support Assemblywoman Joyner as she embarks on her new chapter. We are wishing her the very best on her next journey and look forward to seeing her continued service in the future.”

Dear Neighbor,

Happy New Year to you and your family!

As we reflect on 2023, we are proud of everything that we have been able to accomplish together. From new affordable housing developments, renovations to our greenspaces, increased funding to combat the digital divide, the amplification of our youth and their artistic creativity, initiatives to keep our communities safe, constituent issues resolved, new members added to our Community Boards, and so much more. We showed the rest of the world that the Bronx is on the rise, and we will only continue to go up from here. Thank you for being a part of this renaissance in our borough and for your advocacy to ensure our communities get the support and resources that they deserve. We look forward to continuing our work together in 2024!

Our team would also like to congratulate the College of Mount Saint Vincent and Mercy College for officially changing their names to the University of Mount Saint Vincent and Mercy University. A significant accomplishment for both of our higher education institutions!

As always, 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 HOSTS CELEBRATION FOR CARDINAL HAYES HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAM AFTER 2023 NY STATE CATHOLIC H.S. CHAMPIONSHIP VICTORY

Bronx, NY – On Thursday, December 21st, 2023, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson hosted a celebration at Borough Hall for the Cardinal Hayes High School Football Team’s victory in the 2023 Catholic H.S. League Championship bout against St. Francis High School after a victorious lead of 40 pts – 22 pts.

Cardinal Hayes is the first New York City school to win the Catholic League’s prestigious AAA State Title, considered one of the top honors in Northeast high school sports. This marks the first state championship in the school’s history and the first time that any team from New York City has won the state Catholic League championship.

“We are so excited this week to celebrate our Bronx football champions,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “These young men represent the strength, resiliency, and perseverance of our borough. They overcame overwhelming odds to pull off a historic victory, and we are so proud to recognize and celebrate the players, coaches, and parents who helped make this happen. Never count out our youth, and never count out the Bronx!”

The celebration began with a live performance by the Cardinal Hayes Marching Band and included a speech by former NY Jets running back, Tony Richardson, dinner, and an award presentation for the young athletes who collectively led the Cardinals to their inaugural victory.

The celebration ended with Borough President Gibson presenting a proclamation to the Cardinal Hayes Football Team declaring December 2nd, 2023, the day of their championship victory, “Cardinal Hayes Day” in the Bronx.

BRONX BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON AND DYCD JOIN THE NEW YORK YANKEES FOR ‘FIRST PITCH’ MURAL UNVEILINGS

Bronx, NY – On December 15, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. in the Rotunda of Bronx Borough Hall, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson was joined by Director of Corporate/Community Relations at New York Yankees, Kenny Leandry; and NYC Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) Deputy Commissioner of Strategic Partnerships, Darryl Rattray, for the unveiling of three winning murals chosen from a pool of 24 submitted to the Department of Youth and Community Development’s Social Impact Art Competition, First Pitch. Details of the competition were announced on March 1st, 2023, with 200 DYCD middle and high school programs in the Bronx invited to participate.

“We know that art has been proven to positively impact our youth by providing them with constructive, effective, and safe ways to be civically engaged,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “Through the Department of Youth and Community Development’s Social Impact Art Competition, First Pitch, our teens were able to explore the complexities of violence and its impact in our homes, schools, and communities. I want to thank New York Yankees Senior VP of Corporate Relations and Communications, Brian Smith, and Deputy Commissioner of Strategic Partnerships at NYC Department of Youth and Community Development Darryl Rattray for creating an outlet for our youth to express themselves artistically while also highlighting the amazing talent in our borough.”

“It’s an undebatable fact that Bronxites are some of the most artistic and creative people on the planet! I may be biased as a Bronx native, but I couldn’t be more proud of these young artists representing the borough and using their talents to inspire a better future for all,” said NYC Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) Commissioner Keith Howard. “DYCD is excited to continue our strong partnership with Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson as we publicly unveil these murals as part of the First Pitch competition with the Yankees. We encourage everyone to come out and see firsthand how Bronx youth are amplifying their voices through creativity for social change.”

The competition winners are (1) The Claremont Neighborhood Center with their mural themed, “Youth Violence and the Impact on Mental Health,” by Artists Mahawa Sankara and Maryam Choudhry; (2) the Kips Bay Boys and Girls Club, Inc. with their mural themed, “Violence Afflicted by Lack of Mental Health Intervention in Bronx Communities,” by Artists Kaitlyn DeLeon, Ethan Flores, Zaida DeJesus, and Illiana Torres; and (3) Learning Through An Expanded Arts Program, Incorporated’s “Silenced Violence: The Unspoken & Unresolved Issue,” created by Artists Mohagany Morales, Jolany Tejada, Yeremi Diaz, and Hadasa Herrera.

All three murals will be displayed for the public to enjoy in the Rotunda of Bronx Borough Hall located at 851 Grand Concourse from Monday, December 18th, 2023 through Thursday, December 21st, 2023. The competition is the result of a public-private partnership between DYCD and the New York Yankees that encourages youth to effect change through the arts.

Dear Neighbor,

Thank you for joining us for another week in review.

Last week, we joined Senator Gustavo Rivera and Council Member Pierina Sanchez as they introduced new legislation to equip our parents and health inspectors with the resources to keep our youth safe from opioids. Our daycare centers are supposed to be safe spaces for our youth and their families, and when they are not, that is a call to action. Thank you to my colleagues for their work on this legislative package. In November, we also co-sponsored a Naloxone training with the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene in response to the opioid issue in our borough. You can click here for more information on upcoming trainings and resources to keep your loved ones safe.

We also had our last Ask the BP segment for the year, where we shared updates on the partial building collapse, upcoming events, and support for residents impacted by this week`s storm. Thank you to everyone who tuned in last night, and we look forward to joining the News 12 team again next year to answer your questions live on-air.

As always, 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

Dear Neighbor,

Thank you for joining us for another week in review.

Our borough is still reeling from the devastating partial building collapse that has impacted our Morris Heights community and has left over 100 residents displaced.

We are grateful for the quick response from our first responders, American Red Cross, FDNY, NYPD, NYCEM, DOB, Community Board 5, the Hoodspitality Group, Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition, school leadership, and staff at PS 396/MS 390, my colleagues in government and everyone else who has reached out and expressed a desire to help our neighbors. Thankfully, there have been no reported injuries or deaths as a result of this incident, and we are working closely to ensure the impacted families continue to receive support. As we get more information, we will make sure to share it with our community, but please continue to keep them in your prayers.

Lastly, we want to remind Bronxites to exercise caution this winter, as we unfortunately continue to see fires across our borough. Our main priority is to ensure our residents and families are safe and have the tools to protect themselves and their loved ones. Click here for these potentially life-saving fire safety tips.

As always, 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

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).

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).

Instacart is expanding its EBT SNAP integration in partnership with ALDI. EBT SNAP online payment is now available at nearly 1,000 more ALDI stores across 23 states and Washington, D.C. This latest expansion follows the USDA Food and Nutrition Service’s most recent approval allowing Instacart and ALDI to expand this online EBT SNAP pilot.

New York Blood Center is calling on the community to make appointments to visit donor centers as COVID-19 has fundamentally changed the process of donating blood.

Before COVID-19, mobile blood drives hosted by high schools, colleges, businesses and other organizations made up about 75% of the region’s incoming blood supply, but the number of blood drives has dropped by two-thirds this year due to the pandemic.

The upcoming school year presents new and unprecedented challenges. Blood donations are typically lower during the summer and the return to school usually helps make up the difference and stabilize the blood supply. In the past, school and college drives have resulted in 75,000 blood donations during each school year.

“The pandemic is forcing us to rethink the entire landscape, which means encouraging donors to take the extra step of making an appointment and traveling to a donor center. The loss of young donors is a particular challenge because our future blood supply is dependent on these first-time donors becoming lifetime donors,” said Andrea H. Cefarelli, Senior Executive Director of Recruitment & Marketing for New York Blood Center. “We’ve always relied on the fall to provide a boost in blood donations from high school and college students hosting drives and this year we know this relief will not be coming.”

NYBC began hosting a limited number of drives again this summer, however they are far from the number of drives per month needed to support area hospitals. NYBC is encouraging eligible donors of all ages to adapt to this new normal by making appointments to visit a one of its 19 donors centers, which have expanded capacity and hours of operation in order safely accommodate more donors.

Blood from volunteer donors is needed every two seconds to help meet the daily transfusion needs of cancer and surgery patients, accident and burn victims, newborns and mothers delivering babies, AIDS and sickle cell anemia patients, and many more.

To make an appointment to donate blood, visit HERE.

NYBC also needs more partners to step up and help host drives in large venues. If you have a space available and would like to host a blood drive, please sign up HERE.

For information on the extra precautions being taken to help prevent the person-to-person spread of COVID-19, visit HERE.

New York State will be opening up mass vaccination sites around our city. This only applies for individuals in the 1a and 1b categories currently. You can call 1-833-697-4829 or go to https://covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov to see if you are eligible and make an appointment.

If you have already made your appointment with the City of New York please do not call the State Hotline to register.

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

Dear Neighbor,

Every year in our country, more than 10 million people are physically abused by an intimate partner and millions of children are exposed to domestic violence. Abuse can come in many forms, from physical and sexual abuse to mental or emotional abuse. It can be very difficult to know whether a loved one has experienced abuse. Survivors of domestic violence may not show outward signs of experiencing abuse and many may stay silent and choose not to tell others.

In partnership with Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson and community organizations, we invite you to join us for an in-person/virtual Domestic Violence Awareness Event on Wednesday, October 26th at Bronx Community Board 12 (4101 White Plains Road) from 6-8pm. The event will be dedicated to bringing greater awareness to domestic violence and its impact on individuals of all ages in our community. We will hear from survivors and provide resources, activities, and personal hygiene kits for those who may have been affected by domestic violence. For those who cannot attend in-person, we invite you to join us for the speaking portion by Zoom. Contact us at 718-547-8854 or Senatorjbailey@nysenate.gov for more information.

Please RSVP at bit.ly/bronxdv to join us.

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

As the legislative session comes to an end, I would like to provide updates on what we’ve been up to in Albany and the district. We were able to secure major wins in the recently enacted budget that invests in a bold vision for the future of our state – fully funding Foundation Aid to give our children a better future, the largest annual School Aid amount of $34.5 billion in the state’s history, expanding access to affordable childcare, improving healthcare access including historic mental health funding and aid to safety net hospitals, investing in universal free school lunches, advancing community safety with investments in gun-violence reduction and alternatives to incarceration programs, protecting tenants and homeowners, raising the minimum wage, combatting the effects of climate change, and investing in the social services our communities deserve.

I am proud to have advocated for a number of important initiatives that were enacted in the final budget. The budget includes record school aid for the Mount Vernon School District, which was one of my top priorities in the budget. We were able to secure funding for my bill to raise pay for 18-b assigned counsel to $158/hour – the first pay raise for these legal safety net attorneys in 18 years. I am proud we are taking this important step to ensure every New Yorker has meaningful access to justice. The budget includes historic investments in our young people, securing $10 million for my new initiative to establish a statewide Youth Sports Grant program, $2.5 million to fund YouthBuild, one of the state’s most effective and successful youth diversion programs, and $350,000 for the W. Haywood Burns Chair Scholarship to support opportunities in legal education. We also secured $1 million in funding for diversity in medicine programs.

Our work is not done, but this budget is a meaningful step in the right direction. I want to thank Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins for her steadfast leadership and my colleagues in the legislature for their advocacy and dedication throughout the budget process. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Legislature to pass critical legislation through the remainder of this year’s legislative session that will build on these gains.

Jamaal T. Bailey
State Senator, District 36

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

Athletic Trainer Legislation

The State Senate hosted athletic trainers from across the State at the New York State Capitol, including Buffalo Bills Athletic Trainers Denny Kellington and Nate Breske, who helped save the life of Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin when he collapsed on the field during a game this past season. I sponsored a Senate resolution honoring National Athletic Training Month and recognizing the lifesaving work of these dedicated professionals who help ensure the safety and well-being of athletes at all levels of sports. At the state level, we are spearheading efforts to establish a licensing process for athletic trainers which would help to ensure that only qualified professionals can practice in this field. By requiring rigorous training and continuing education, a licensing process would help to elevate the standards of care for athletes and reduce the risk of injury or harm.

Wakefield Fire Relief Drive

Last week, there was a four-alarm fire in the Wakefield section of the district. Residents in 54 units of the 104-unit building have been displaced. We are grateful for the response of our FDNY firefighters, the Office of Emergency Management, and Red Cross for providing families with supportive services and emergency assistance. My office will be collecting donations and supplies to support their recovery. Donations of high-need items will be accepted at my district office at 959 E 233rd St, Bronx, NY from Monday through Friday, 10am – 5pm. **We ask that all clothingand bedding donations are new and unused.***

Thanks to all community members who have already dropped off donations!

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.

Congressman Bowman Celebrates Yonkers’ Own Mary J. Blige’s Induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

YONKERS, NY — Today, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame announced their list of 2024 inductees, including Yonkers’ Mary J. Blige.

Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16) released the following statement in response:

“I am so excited to congratulate Yonkers’ own Mary J. Blige on the announcement of her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for 2024,” said Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16). “Growing up in the projects in Yonkers and raised by a single mother, Blige’s story is the story of many New Yorkers, myself included. Her music is informed by her lived experiences with addiction and harassment, and it gives a voice to the experiences of our community and the oppression and struggle we face on a daily basis. Blige’s art has shaped our culture and allowed so many folks in our community to see themselves reflected in her work that is rooted in the political and social experiences we share every single day. Here in Yonkers we know the power and movement of music, and the microphone that it gives us to share our stories. Mary J. Blige is the realization of that power, and I am so excited to celebrate her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.”

Congressman Bowman Hosts Reproductive Justice Town Hall with Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley

YONKERS, NY – Last week, Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16) hosted a virtual town hall on reproductive justice with special guests Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) and National Women’s Law Center Director of Health Equity, Dorianne Mason. During the town hall, they discussed the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe vs. Wade, travel for people seeking reproductive care from out of state, resources for reproductive care, and what we can be doing to fight back against possible national abortion bans. You can watch the town hall here.

Congressman Bowman opened the town hall by discussing the ongoing right wing attempts to legislate over women’s bodies and freedom and the issues our country is facing when it comes to Black maternal mortality. The Congressman then gave a brief summary of the work he’s done over his two terms in Congress to support Reproductive Freedom including:

Fighting to enact the Women’s Health Protection Act to codify Roe v Wade and protect the right to abortion
Being a member of the Congressional Pro-Choice Caucus (PCC)
Cosponsoring the Black Maternal Momnibus Act, Protecting Access to Medication Abortion Act, the Affordability is Access Act, and more Rep. Bowman on the connection between healthcare affordability, school funding, and the cost of food and housing (at 42:15 in video):

“We have a healthcare system based on profit, not based on keeping people healthy,” said Congressman Jamaal Bowman Ed.D. (NY-16). “And as a result of that, hospitals, insurance companies, drug companies, equipment suppliers, they’re all about making profits, not keeping people healthy and out of the healthcare system. And I’m an educator – I’ve watched, seen, and experienced physical education being legislated out of the school system. There are some elementary schools that do not have physical education classes. There are some middle schools that don’t have health classes to help students understand how to remain healthy. And then the issue of food insecurity and lack of access to healthy, affordable foods also drive up healthcare costs, because once the condition is acute, it is more expensive to receive treatment. So it’s a racket based on profit that’s connected to lack of access to housing, lack of access to food, and underfunded education systems.”

Rep. Pressley on Dobbs v. Jackson Decision (at 46:52 in video):

“When the Dobbs decision came out I was at my daughter’s 8th grade graduation, and I was filled with such dread, such sadness, that she would be growing up in a world with less rights than I had,” said Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07). “But even before the Dobbs decision, we knew abortion care wasn’t equitably accessible across our nation. Particularly for Black and brown, lowest income, our LGBTQ+ community, indigenous women, and people with disabilities. Abortion care is safe. Abortion care is necessary. Abortion care is healthcare. People seek abortion care for a myriad of reasons, and all deserve to be met with care, with compassion, and with support.”

Dorianne Mason on Maternity Care Providers Closing (at 1:01:20 in video)

“Abortion bans don’t just impact people seeking abortions,” said National Women’s Law Center Director of Health Equity, Dorianne Mason. “They impact all of healthcare, including maternity care. So when clinics that provide abortions close, pregnant people lose access to all other services, including prenatal care, postpartum checkups, and even contraceptive access. And in states where abortion is illegal or restricted, being an OB/GYN is even difficult. Providers are forced to determine not what care is needed by the patient, but instead what type of care is permitted by state law. And as a result, some doctors are simply leaving states with severe abortion restrictions, and new doctors don’t want to take jobs in those states, and some maternity units in their entirety are closing.”

Rep. Bowman Holds Community Conversation on Ending Violence

MOUNT VERNON, NY — Last night, Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16) held a youth-focused community conversation on violence prevention at the Boys & Girls Club of Mount Vernon. He was joined by Mount Vernon Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard and local members of the community. Attendees shared their experiences, thoughts, and policy ideas on preventing violence in our communities. Director of Safe Place for our Girls, Nakia Hiland, moderated the conversation. You can find photos and videos of the event here.

“Before I graduated college, I had lost multiple friends and family members to senseless violence,” said Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16) to attendees. “This [violence] is something that seems to be ever-present in Black, Brown, underserved, and other communities as well, because violence, whether here or abroad, impacts all of us in one way or another. And that trauma, that suffering, that grieving, lives in our bodies. So ever since I came to Congress, this has been a number one issue for me. This is literally one of the reasons why I ran for Congress, because too many kids were dying and suffering and not enough people were doing anything about it.”

Attendees split up into breakout groups to discuss the causes of violence and potential solutions. The whole group then came together to discuss their findings and agreed that working to eradicate poverty and build community are critical to ending violence. Rep. Bowman asked for a show of hands for how many people had been personally affected by violence and nearly everyone in the room raised their hand.

Having grown up surrounded by gun violence in his community, this issue is very close to Congressman Bowman’s heart. He’s also been leading the fight against all forms of violence in Congress and back home in NY-16. His work on the issue includes:

Successfully pushing for the creation of the White House’s first ever Office of Gun Violence Prevention
Writing a letter to the Biden Administration which led to an executive action regulating ghost guns, and
bringing funding back to the district for violence prevention programs including:
$999,000 to Safe Place for Our Girls, a program that supports at-risk youth in Mount Vernon
Over $1.2 million to Justice Innovation to fund a Community Youth Violence Intervention Initiative in New Rochelle
$1.6 million for the Youth Shelter Program of Westchester to pilot a mental health and educational support program for at-risk youth ages 18 to 24 in Mount Vernon known as the YouthHEAL initiative
And over $300,000 for other violence prevention programs in Westchester and the Bronx in partnership with Governor Kathy Hochul

Rep. Bowman also shed light on the issue of violence in our communities by inviting Jonathan Alvarez to be his State of the Union Guest. Alvarez founded 914United, which supports formerly incarcerated individuals and at-risk youth, and is a Case Manager for Yonkers SNUG, which works to reduce gun violence

Rep. Bowman Tours YWCA Workforce Development Program Awarded $690k in Federal Funding

YONKERS, NY — Yesterday, Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16) visited the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) of Yonkers’ Workforce Development Program, which is launching a new initiative funded by the $690,000 in community project funding that his office secured for the organization. Rep. Bowman met with YWCA leadership, program staff, and participants, about how the funding will serve the community. The new initiative will serve approximately 200 Yonkers residents with services including job skill assessments, work readiness workshops, postsecondary education preparation and placement, career guidance, child care, and transportation for participants.

“Everyone deserves to have the resources and support they need to reach their full potential,” said Congressman Jamaal Bowman Ed.D. (NY-16). “But so many of our youth are held back by a lack of financial resources to invest in themselves and their careers, which perpetuates the cycle of intergenerational poverty. When we invest in our young people, it makes an incredible difference, not just for the individuals, but for the entire community. That’s why I’m so proud that we were able to secure over $690,000 for the YWCA of Yonkers’ Workforce Development Program. They’re already doing incredible work and I can’t wait to see their impact on the community expand with this new funding.”

“The $690,000 that Congressman Bowman advocated for us to get is going to go a long, long way,” said YWCA CEO Charlie Knight. “We’re going to be able to expand our program to include different career paths and reach a lot more people. This is one of our most important programs at the YWCA because it’s focused on helping low-income people out of poverty by supporting them to advance in their careers and find stable, well-paying jobs. That’s where we want to see our participants go, and we’ve had a very high success rate so far. This new funding means that we’ll get to support even more people in the community. ”

“People in this program haven’t had the same opportunities in life as others,” said Sonya Wynn, a participant of the program. “Most of these doors were closed to us financially, but now they’re open because of Congressman Bowman, and that’s amazing for us.”

“This program has made a big difference for a lot of people,” said Program Coordinator Star Hendricks. “I stay in touch with former participants and they are really successful and moving up. The program opens their eyes to different things and shows them new paths, while also giving them a community to lean on for support. I’m really happy that we’re able to do so much with a job readiness program and I think it makes a big difference in people’s lives.”

Rep. Bowman Hosts Affordability Town Hall with Senator Bernie Sanders

YONKERS, NY – Last night, Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16) hosted a virtual town hall on student debt relief with special guests Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Executive Director of Community Voices Heard Juanita Lewis. During the town hall, they discussed the ongoing fight to push back against corporate greed and the cost of living crisis to ensure that everyone can afford basic necessities like food, healthcare, and housing. This event came just after President Biden’s remarks targeting rent gouging by corporate landlords and the release of the administration’s FY2025 budget proposal, which would lower costs for prescription drugs, housing, childcare, utilities, and more. You can watch the town hall here.

Congressman Bowman opened the town hall by acknowledging the urgency of the affordability crisis. Though inflation has been slowing down since its peak in 2022, basic necessities like rent, groceries, utility bills, and healthcare remain unaffordable. The Congressman then gave a brief summary of the work he’s done over his two terms in Congress to combat the affordability crisis including:

Pushing for and to shaping the White House’s Blueprint for a Renters Bill of Rights
Introducing his Emergency Price Stabilization Act, which would give the President new tools to investigate corporate profiteering and put limits on price and rent increases
Introducing his Heating and Cooling Relief Act with Senator Markey, which would cap household utility costs at 3% of annual income
Introducing his Ending Corporate Greed Act with Senator Bernie Sanders, which would tax windfall profits as another check on corporate price-gouging

The Congressman also noted that the Inflation Reduction Act capped insulin costs at $35 per month for seniors and gave Medicare the ability to negotiate prescription drug prices, which will help approximately 130,000 Medicare beneficiaries in NY-16. Rep. Bowman and Sen. Sanders then discussed their efforts to stop various privatization attempts and cuts to Medicare and Social Security, the importance of cracking down on corporate greed to stabilize the cost of living, and their advocacy for a 32-hour workweek without a reduction in pay. Afterwards, they took questions from the audience about their personal experiences dealing with the cost of living crisis.

Rep. Bowman on the connection between healthcare affordability, school funding, and the cost of food and housing (at 42:15 in video):

Sen. Sanders on healthcare affordability (at 14:50 in video):

“We are the only major country on earth not to guarantee healthcare to all as a human right,” said Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT). “You go up to Canada, you end up in the hospital for a month, you know what your bill is when you come out? It’s zero, and they end up spending half as much as we do per capita. So the bottom line is that healthcare is a human right and the function of the healthcare system should be to provide healthcare to all people, not to make the drug companies and the insurance companies extraordinarily wealthy.”

Juanita Lewis on the housing affordability crisis in Westchester (at 49:50 in video)

“We’re in a housing crisis and what’s happening in Westchester is not unique. We’re seeing this crisis across the country,” said Executive Director of Community Voices Heard Juanita Lewis. “And unfortunately, when we look at just Westchester County, over 51% of renters are rent burdened, meaning that they’re paying over 30% of their income on rent. Within that, about 28% are severely rent burdened, meaning that they’re paying over 50% of their income on rent. And that’s just unconscionable. We’re in one of the richest countries in the world and one of the richest counties in the state and we have such a disparity when it comes to housing… These are policy decisions and it’s all about having the political will to {change things}… There’s a lot of work that needs to be done, but we definitely want to see more… done to make sure we take care of the families that are most in need.”

Rep. Bowman Presents Checks for $14.6 Million in Community Project Funding for NY-16

TUCKAHOE, NY — This morning, Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16) held a press conference to celebrate the federal government successfully securing $14.6 million in funding for 11 community projects in New York’s 16th Congressional District, in addition to the $1 billion that the Congressman has already brought back to the district in his time in office so far. Rep. Bowman presented checks to the community organizations and municipalities receiving the funding, which will be used to support communities and organizations in the district with much-needed greenspace, climate investments, community programming, economic development, affordable housing, and more. Rep. Bowman advocated for these projects as part of the FY2024 Federal Appropriations package. See photos here.

“After securing over $1 billion for NY-16 in my time in office so far, I am so proud to deliver another $14.6 million in federal funding for critical resources and supports across our district,” said Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16). “My team and I worked closely with constituents, our local governments, and community groups to submit funding requests that align to the most urgent needs of our neighbors. From improving the Yonkers Greenway, to securing clean buses for Westchester, to revitalizing our downtown areas, each of these projects will uplift our community and provide everyone with the resources they need to thrive. I will keep fighting to bring federal funds back to Westchester and the Bronx and deliver for our incredible district.”

“Our country and state and our District are facing a severe housing crisis, and an even more acute affordable housing crisis,” said Richard Nightingale, President and CEO of Westhab, Inc. “Westhab is grateful to Congressman Bowman for bringing home the funding we need to invest in our community and develop affordable housing with cutting-edge sustainable design so that every resident of the district can have a safe, quality place to call home.”

“The Village of Rye Brook is very appreciative of receiving almost $1M in Community Project Funding which will be used for critical rehabilitation of our sanitary sewer system,” said Rye Brook Mayor Jason Klein. “These funds are sorely needed to repair our infrastructure and to reduce the inflow and infiltration of water seeping into our sewer system”

“We are immensely grateful to Congressman Jamaal Bowman for his unwavering commitment to our community,” said Jirandy Martinez, Executive Director of the Community Resource Center. “The $100,000 funding allocated to Community Resource Center will have a profound impact on our ability to serve the needs of local immigrant and low-income residents, particularly in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida. This investment will enable us to renovate our Center located in the Washingtonville community of Mamaroneck and help to fortify it against future flooding while expanding our capacity to deliver essential social and legal services. Congressman Bowman’s dedication to addressing critical issues like flood mitigation, workforce development, violence prevention, and youth enrichment exemplifies true leadership. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Congressman Bowman to build a stronger, more resilient community for all.”

“The Village of Ardsley would like to thank Congressman Bowman for securing over $977,000 in funding to help revitalize and restore the Village’s core downtown center,” said Ardsley Mayor Nancy Kaboolian. “The funds will be used to help meet the goals of the Village’s Comprehensive Plan and the Downtown Ardsley Revitalization Implementation Strategy to create a livable, walkable village center by incentivizing development of multi-story, multi-family housing stock, improving connections for public transportation, and installing EV charges.”

“We thank Congressman Bowman for his commitment to Tuckahoe,” said Tuckahoe Mayor Omayra Andino. “This generous investment of $1 million towards the upgrades of our downtown area and traffic light infrastructure marks a significant milestone in our journey towards progress and revitalization of our community.”

The 11 Community Project Funding requests in alphabetical order are as follows:

$500,000 to the County of Westchester to secure clean, climate-friendly hybrid and electric buses for the Bee Line Bus System.

$1,650,000 to Environmental Leaders of Color for the Mount Vernon Green Tech Park, a community facility space that will include mixed-income housing, art space, and commercial space.

$100,000 to the Hispanic Resource Center of Larchmont and Mamaroneck to renovate the Mamaroneck Community Center for flood mitigation after Hurricane Ida and provide critical social and legal services like workforce development, violence prevention, and youth enrichment programs.

$1,150,000 to HOPE Community Services to support the construction of the New Rochelle Community Center that will create capacity for wraparound services like nutrition, child mental wellness, after school help, and more.

$240,620 to Lifting Up Westchester to create the Westchester Housing and Employment Center which will assist unhoused and low-income individuals searching for employment to end the cycle of homelessness.

$2,000,000 to the Town of Mamaroneck for the Mamaroneck Town Safety and Economic Renaissance Project to create more efficient traffic systems, improve pedestrian safety, and enhance infrastructure in the area.

$4,119,279 to the Town of Yonkers to rehabilitate the Yonkers Greenway and roads and connect jobs, community resources, and green space.

$977,827 to the Village of Ardsley to revitalize the downtown area and promote economic growth, mobility, and pedestrian safety.

$959,752 to the Village of Rye Brook for the Rye Brook Sewer Rehabilitation Initiative.

$1,000,000 to the Village of Tuckahoe to improve the Tuckahoe Square and Main Street signal and transform the business district around the Metro-North station into a modern, safe public space.

$2,000,000 to WestHab, Inc. to develop sustainable, affordable housing and invest in small businesses in Yonkers.

Congressman Jamaal Bowman Announces 2024 State of the Union Guest, Jonathan Alvarez

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16), officially announced he will welcome 914United founder Jonathan Alvarez of Yonkers as his guest for the 2024 State of the Union address.

Jonathan Alvarez co-founded 914United with his best friend of over 28 years, John Cabrera. In addition to the work he does with 914United to support formerly incarcerated individuals and at-risk youth, he is involved with the My Brother’s Keeper Initiative as a mentor and a Case Manager for Yonkers SNUG which works to reduce gun violence. He is also an Academic Outreach Coordinator in the Youth Offender Program in Westchester, providing educational support to incarcerated young people. While incarcerated, Alvarez received his GED and Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies from the Bard Prison Initiative.

“It is such an honor to announce that Jonathan Alvarez of Yonkers will be my special guest for this year’s State of the Union address,” said Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16). “Jonathan is a leader in our community who has committed himself to uplifting our youth, making sure that everyone has the resources they need to thrive, and prioritizing equity and justice. As a formerly incarcerated individual and founder of 914United, Jonathan has made it his mission to create and foster positive change in his community. Leaders like Jonathan make our district the vibrant, diverse, and welcoming place that we know. I am so proud to have him join me at the State of the Union.”

“”I am delighted and honored to have received an invitation from Congressman Jamaal Bowman to attend President Biden’s State of the Union address,” said Jonathan Alvarez, founder of 914United. “As our nation faces a critical juncture, the leadership of President Biden and Congressman Bowman is paramount. I look forward to participating in this historic occasion, recognizing the significance of their guidance during these challenging times.”

Representatives Jamaal Bowman, André Carson, Hank Johnson, and Delia Ramirez Launch Hip Hop Task Force

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16), Hank Johnson (GA-04), André Carson (IN-07), and Delia Ramirez (IL-03), along with artists, producers, and industry professionals, launched the first ever Congressional Hip Hop Power and Justice Task Force to center Hip Hop’s mission and vision of creating a more just and equitable world. The Hip Hop Task Force will give voice to the shared values of Hip Hop, including peace, love, and justice, while advocating for solutions to issues that disproportionately impact Black, Indigenous, Latinx, and other marginalized groups such as access to healthcare, mass incarceration, economic opportunity, and artistic freedoms.

“Without Hip Hop, I would not be here as a member of Congress, which is why I’m so excited to lead the first ever Congressional Hip Hop Task Force,” said Rep. Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16). “Hip Hop is the rebirth of civilization. It isn’t just music or culture— Hip Hop shapes our identities, our personalities, and the foundations of who we are. The political ideology I represent is rooted in the radical love and political perspectives that Hip Hop has given us, perspectives that center and uplift marginalized and oppressed people. From its creation in a basement in the Bronx at a time when young people of color were being villainized and oppressed to becoming a worldwide phenomenon, Hip Hop has ingrained itself in our culture and continuously called upon us to fight for civil and racial justice. Hip Hop is why I support the movement for reparations, an end to discrimination and corporate greed in the housing industry, and access to healthcare and economic opportunity for everyone. That is why I am proud to stand with my colleagues in bringing the advocacy and ideology of Hip Hop to Congress in this moment and continue our urgent calls for peace and justice across the world .”

“I am proud to join my colleagues in launching the first ever Congressional Hip Hop Power and Justice Caucus,” said Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04). “Hip hop resonates as the powerful soundtrack of our collective pursuit of social justice and equality and is the storytelling platform that unites generations. For that reason, it is important that we protect free speech through artistic expression. Respect is just a minimum.”

“Hip Hop has long given a voice to help us tackle issues such as prison reform, police misconduct, gun violence, and more,” said Rep. André Carson (IN-07). “Hip Hop has spoken truth to power for decades, and with this task force, it is elevated to the place it deserves in Congress. The fight for social justice is far from over, and we must continue to learn from the wisdom of Hip Hop to guide us on this enduring fight.”

“I am proud to be a Latina from Chicago, a city that urbanized blues, invented house, and continues to deliver music that gives a voice to communities of color and builds bridges across differences. Hip-hop, especially, has shined a light on our shared lived experiences, our hopes, our joys, and our resistance. This music has provided a platform for many in Chicago and IL-03, including Chance the Rapper, to empower our youth through the arts, education, and civic engagement,” said Rep. Delia Ramirez (IL-03). “As hip-hop celebrates its 50th anniversary, I am beyond proud to stand with my friend and colleague Rep. Bowman as a co-chair of the Congressional Hip Hop Power and Justice Task Force. Together, we will work with artists in the Hip-Hop community to support legislation that empowers our people.”

“Black Music Action Coalition’s (BMAC) mission is to work with business leaders and lawmakers to utilize the music industry’s influence to impact federal policies that address racial and social justice,” said Willie “Prophet” Stiggers, Co-Founder/ President & CEO Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC). “The RAP Act is just one example of how aligning BMAC’s efforts in tandem with the Congressional Hip Hop Task Force is a natural extension of Black Music Action Coalition’s work supporting solutions to mass incarceration, justice reform, and economic hardships disparately impacting marginalized communities. We applaud the leadership of Reps. Jamaal Bowman, Hank Johnson, Delia Ramirez, and André Carson in the formation of this task force and being unapologetic about their deep connections to hip hop and how its culture and musical legacy have influenced their decisions as leaders, thinkers, and activists. BMAC looks forward to centralizing our energy with the first-ever Hip Hop Power and Justice Task Force to activate legislation that protects the Black community.”

“Hip Hop Caucus is excited to support Congressman Jamaal Bowman and the launch of the Congressional Hip Hop Task Force,” said Hip Hop Caucus’ President and CEO Rev Yearwood Jr. ”As one of music’s most popular genres, hip-hop’s cultural and political influence stretch globally and it has been a groundbreaking form of cultural exchange and creative expression for those who have been historically overlooked and marginalized. We look forward to expanding the power of this cultural force to advance policy solutions for the issues that disproportionately impact Black, Latinx and Indigenous communities.”

Congressman Bowman Supports Investigation into Racial Slurs at Westchester Girls Basketball Game

SCARSDALE, NY – On Tuesday, Scarsdale and East Ramapo school officials announced that they are investigating a reported racially charged attack at the girls basketball game in Scarsdale last weekend.

Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16) released the following statement in response:

“There is no place for racism or hatred of any kind on the court, in our schools, or any other place in our society. The reports of racial slurs at last weekend’s basketball game are unacceptable. My team and I will continue to follow the situation and await the conclusion of the ongoing investigation. It is our responsibility as parents and educators to teach against hate and center love so our children can do better.

Sports are a refuge for many students, and a place where kids can come together to build community and understanding with one another. Hatred in all its forms can make sports feel unwelcoming and unsafe. We must work together to ensure that our schools are prepared to be safe environments, combat hatred, and promote peaceful dialogue. The collective work of fighting all forms of hate requires us to tell the truth about our history and society by giving students opportunities to learn accurate, unbiased information about the past and present. It also must include fostering discussion and engagement with diverse peers, perspectives, and cultures. We cannot shy away from the hard work of education, but we must remember and teach the importance of compassion, mutual understanding, and empathy for all communities. This is the only path towards a society that centers peace and our shared humanity.”

Congressman Jamaal Bowman Kicks Off Black History Month with Equity for All Resolution

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16) and Congresswoman Summer Lee (PA-12) were joined by Journey for Justice Alliance and grassroots partners to introduce the Equity for All Resolution, calling on the House of Representatives to boldly commit to making racial and economic equity a priority and uplifting the values of Journey for Justice Alliance’s Equity or Else Quality of Life Framework. The resolution’s introduction also marks the beginning of Black History Month.

“It is past time for our government and our society to center racial and economic equity in everything we do,” said Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16). “For too long, Black, brown, and Indigenous Americans have been marginalized and excluded from the conversations about the policies that most directly affect them. That’s why I’m standing with Journey for Justice Alliance and introducing the Equity for All Resolution. This resolution focuses on changing the belief systems that our institutions are built on and evolving the practices of our government and our society to prioritize the most impacted communities and focus on transformative legislation that uplifts their perspectives. On the eve of Black History Month, we are introducing this resolution to celebrate the vibrant history, culture, and struggle for justice experienced by Black Americans and to commit ourselves to a more just future for all people. Our democracy depends on equity, justice, and centering historically marginalized voices so everyone can thrive. This is an opportunity for Congress to prioritize these issues and stand with us in this fight.”

“Growing up in a working-class family in the Mon Valley, my lived experience shows the compounding effects that economics, race, and zip-code can have as we all pursue our happiness. For too long, our institutions have failed Black folks, brown folks, and Indigenous folks by failing to adequately address how our institutions and policies continue cycles of injustice and poverty” said Rep. Summer Lee (PA-12). “On the day before Black History Month, I’m proud to be a co-lead on the Equity for All Resolution to finally change the foundations that our institutions are built upon, meaningfully acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of Black, brown, and Indigenous folks, and take meaningful steps to ensure the practices of our government center the need for transformative justice.”

Click here to read the resolution.

Original cosponsors include: Reps. Andre Carson, Jesus “Chuy” Garcia, Hank Johnson, Summer Lee, Delia Ramirez, Shri Thanedar, Nydia Velazquez, and Bonnie Watson-Coleman

Endorsing organizations include: 412 Justice, ACOPERI, Albion’s Future, Alliance for Educational Justice, Alliance for Quality Education, Alliance for Quality Education, Alliance to Reclaim Our Schools, American Federation of Teachers, Baltimore Algebra Project, Blocks Together, Brighton Park Neighborhood Council, Camden Parent and Student Union, Center For Popular Democracy, Check The Weather LLC, City of Chicago , Clinton Hill Community Action, Communities One Project St. Louis Missouri, Daughters Across the Diaspora, Domain Realty, Gateway Alliance Project, Girls Empowerment Conference, Grassroots Arkansas, Green Party of St. Louis, IMAN, Indiana Environmental Clean Energy, J40, Inc, Journey for Justice Alliance, Journey for Justice Alliance South Region, Kansas Justice Advocate, Keep The Vote/No Takeover, National Education Association, Network for Public Education Action, Next Leadership Development, Northside Action for Justice, Parents Supporting Parents NY, Paterson Education Fund, People for Community Recovery, PSPNY, San Francisco Education Alliance, Stand For Schools, Step Up Louisiana, The Midwest Building Decarbonization Coalition, The New Justice Project MN, The Palm Collective

“It is time for elected officials to confront racial inequity. We have kicked the can down the road for long enough. Racial inequities poison quality of life in Black, Brown and Indigenous communities, eroding and eventually destroying the institutions that most of white America take for granted.” –Jitu Brown, National Director of Journey for Justice Alliance

“The best way to reduce inequity within and across our communities is investment: investments in real resources into the supports and services that help people access better lives, from counselors and nurses in schools, to robust literacy programs and experiential, hands-on learning, and increased support for educators working to bridge the gap that puts too many students of color and rural students at a disadvantage when it comes to accessing opportunities for a better life. Money matters, and bringing the Equity or Else agenda to Congress moves us closer to making sure every student in every district has a better shot at a quality public education that sets them up for success.” –Randi Weingarten, President of American Federation of Teachers

“Driven by the push for self-determination and a leveled playing field for working families and their push to achieve the American Dream, we are encouraged and undeterred in our fight forward for Equity for all Americans,” said Moira Kaleida, national coalition director for the Alliance to Reclaim Our Schools. “As we work collectively to ensure that every student and their family has access to high-quality neighborhoods and public schools, we boldly stand in solidarity with Rep. Bowman and the Journey 4 Justice Alliance in the commitment to achieve racial and economic equity for all Americans, and not just a chosen few.” –Alliance to Reclaim Our Schools

Rep. Jamaal Bowman Celebrates New York State Community Commission on Reparations Remedies

NEW YORK, N.Y. — Today, Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16) joined Governor Kathy Hochul and other New York officials to celebrate the signing of Senate Bill S1163A/Assembly Bill A7691, which establishes the New York State Community Commission on Reparations Remedies.

“I am honored to join Governor Hochul and my fellow New Yorkers in celebrating this first step in New York State’s path to reparations,” said Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16). “We have to be honest with ourselves and tell the truth about our history and how it impacts our communities today, so that together we can build a better future. Every corner of our society has been harmed by the lasting impacts of the evils of slavery. Reparations for Black New Yorkers are necessary for us to forge a path forward that acknowledges America’s original sin and addresses centuries of discrimination, redlining, and institutionalized oppression. This is an opportunity for all of us to collectively heal.”

“Our healing must happen not just here in New York, but across the country, so that we can truly root out the lasting impact of slavery. In Congress, we are working on monumental legislation to create a reparations commission and appropriate funding to address the harms of chattel slavery. We will continue to champion and support efforts like these until we achieve reparations. New York is setting an inspiring example by delivering on the long overdue promise to repair this harm when the federal government has yet to do so. I am incredibly proud as a Black man and a New Yorker that we are taking this step in the right direction to fostering racial healing, and I look forward to continuing to fight for these policies at the federal level.”

Rep. Jamaal Bowman Condemns Efforts to Silence His Voice and His Constituents

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16) released the following statement in response to House Republicans voting to censure him:

“I want to thank Democratic leadership and my countless other colleagues for standing up for me last night during the debate,” said Congressman Bowman. “Your words were so kind and I am always grateful to have you all by my side. I have expressed deep regret, apologized for my mistake, and taken accountability for my actions. I also went through the proper investigative processes with the Republican controlled House Committee on Ethics, which decided not to open a formal investigation. I had hoped that we could devote our time and resources to doing our jobs and addressing the issues Americans care about. Americans desperately need us to act with urgency to address the high costs of healthcare, prevent gun violence, invest in education, and so much more, but my colleagues have made it explicitly clear that they would rather relitigate already settled matters than do what we were sent here to do and legislate. This Republican House is unserious and unproductive, and I know that their efforts to target me are a testament to the importance of my voice in pushing back against their disingenuous rhetoric and harmful policies. I look forward to continuing to serve the people of New York’s 16th district and the country.”

Representative Jamaal Bowman Votes No on H.Res. 894

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This afternoon, H.Res. 894 passed the House, which conflates Anti-Zionism with antisemitism and directly attacks free speech.

“Today, I voted no on H.Res. 894, as it fuels division and violence, conflates criticism of the Israeli government with antisemitism, and ignores one of the greatest threats to the Jewish community, white nationalism,” said Congressman Jamaal Bowman Ed.D. (NY-16). “I strongly condemn antisemitism and hate in all of its forms, and firmly believe that we must work together to address the root causes so that we can make strides towards peace. That’s why I introduced and passed a resolution condemning the antisemitic conspiracy theory, the Great Replacement Theory. If protecting the Jewish community and addressing the root causes of antisemitism were the goal of H.Res. 894, then the Republicans supporting this bill would have voted for my resolution condemning the antisemitic conspiracy theory, the Great Replacement Theory–but they didn’t. It is vital to peace, the protection of basic human rights, and the safety of our communities that we do not conflate legitimate and necessary criticisms of the Israeli government with antisemitism. This silence and the implication that criticism of Israel is inherently antisemitic only contributes to the ongoing erasure and marginalization of Palestinians and the rise in anti-Palestinian sentiments. Given the scale of violence and hatred occuring at this moment, we must come together in solidarity within and among our communities, and to refuse to pit threatened communities against one another. We have a moral responsibility to govern in a way that centers those most impacted and nurtures humanity instead of succumbing to more warmongering and violence.

On the Rise of Hate on College Campuses

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This month, colleges and universities have witnessed a surge in hatred, bigotry, and threats as a direct result of the ongoing war in Israel and Palestine.

“The ongoing violence in Israel and Palestine and the tragic loss of life of Palestinian and Israeli civilians has caused immeasurable trauma and pain for Palestinian, Israeli, Jewish, Muslim, and Arab people around the world. As we witness these horrific tragedies unfold, we have also seen an increase in incidents involving hate, threats, or harassment here at home, notably including on college campuses across the country. Whether death threats against Palestinian professors at American University or Jewish students at Cornell, each instance of antisemitism or Islamophobia is vile and disgusting. We must condemn hate in all forms.

In this time of collective grief, we must stand together against bigotry, and ensure that schools are safe spaces that affirm and protect the diverse identities of students and educators. We cannot allow our campuses to replicate or perpetuate the violence and trauma in our world. Instead, we must remember that schools can be our greatest hope for healing, where young people have the space and support to process and analyze unfolding events, parse out the truth, and learn to ground their interactions with each other and the world in empathy and humanity.

We must continue to stand together as we work to stop hatred and to center love and compassion. Our collective humanity and our future depend on it.”

Reps. Jamaal Bowman, Adriano Espaillat, and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand Lead Letter Pushing for Expanded Support for Migrants and Asylum-Seekers in New York

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16), Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) led six of their New York colleagues in sending a letter to United States Customs and Immigration Services asking them to expand USCIS Support Centers to New York and ensure that all asylum-seekers and refugees would be able to utilize these services. These centers would provide essential wraparound services, including legal support, housing, nutrition, and more.

“Migrants, refugees, and asylum-seekers deserve to be treated with dignity and compassion, and that starts by providing them with wraparound services that meet their needs,” said Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16). “Housing, legal support, and nutrition services are basic rights. We have already proven that in times of crisis we have the ability to step up and provide critical services to refugees and asylum-seekers. Now, it’s time to expand those services so that all asylum-seekers and refugees have the access and opportunity that they need. We need bold, visionary leadership to positively transform our immigration system. I hope that this letter will be one of many steps towards an immigration system that centers compassion, respect, and empathy for our migrant neighbors in New York and around the country.”

“Asylum seekers and refugees come to the United States seeking a better future for themselves and their families, and they deserve to have access to the vital services USCIS Support Centers provide,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I am proud to fight so all asylum seekers and refugees in New York are provided with the resources and services needed to build a brighter future.”

“USCIS Support Centers can provide critical resources for migrants and asylum-seekers in their hour of need,” said Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13). “New York City has done its job and stepped up its services in response to the ongoing influx of migrants and asylum-seekers to our City, to try to ensure that their most basic needs, such as food and housing, are met. Adding USCIS Support Centers in New York City would be a tremendous relief, and would ensure that asylum seekers receive services owed to them by law.”

Rep. Jamaal Bowman, Sen. Chuck Schumer, and Reps. Maxine Waters, Sydney Kamlager-Dove Introduce Resolution to Recognize and Celebrate Hip Hop’s Cultural Impact

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16), Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43), and Congresswoman Sydney-Kamlager Dove (CA-37) reintroduced a resolution in the House of Representatives that would designate August 11, 2023 as “Hip Hop Celebration Day,” August 2023 as “Hip Hop Recognition Month,” November 2023 as “Hip Hop History Month,” and celebrate this year as the 50th anniversary of Hip Hop. Last week, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), who led the resolution in the Senate, announced that they unanimously passed the resolution.

Hip Hop, now a world-wide phenomenon, had humble beginnings in New York City. Fifty years ago, on August 11, 1973, at a “Back To School Jam” held in the recreation room of 1520 Sedgwick Avenue in the Bronx, New York, a new innovative style of disk jockeying and engaging the crowd with rap was introduced by Clive “DJ Kool Herc” Campbell. Since then, Hip Hop culture has spread across the nation and the world, uniquely infusing itself into the roots of communities everywhere.

The art and culture of Hip Hop, an original American creation, has transcended boundaries and has been reinvented many times over since its creation in 1973. Hip Hop artists and supporters were originally of African heritage but Hip Hop art and culture has become a melting pot, with its artists and supporters transcending ages, ethnicities, religions, locations, and socioeconomic statuses. Hip Hop has spawned a multi-billion dollar economy in various industries from high fashion to social media platforms. This influence has arguably placed Hip Hop at the center of American culture, both directly and indirectly influencing other genres of music and parts of American social life.

Despite these invaluable contributions to American culture and social life, Hip Hop has struggled to receive the recognition and admiration it deserves on a national level, and government officials have even banned the sale of certain rap albums and disparaged the music altogether. Rep. Bowman’s resolution aims to reverse the lack of public recognition of Hip Hop by unequivocally recognizing Hip Hop and commemorating its place as a critical part of American culture for the past 50 years.

“Hip Hop is the rebirth of civilization,” said Rep. Jamaal Bowman. “For people who were disconnected from their continent, from their language, from their culture, and from their ancestry, Hip Hop represented a step toward rediscovering what it means to be a Black American, or to be a Latino American. In using the English language to create an entirely new art form, the pioneers of Hip Hop created a vessel that grew to impact nearly every facet of American culture. As we continue our fight to advance civil rights and racial justice, we need to not only recognize but celebrate how Hip Hop and Black Americans have given so much to our culture and our country. I’m proud to lead Congress in formally recognizing Hip Hop’s 50th anniversary and the contributions that Hip Hop has made and will continue to make to our country and the world.”

“For decades I have fought to preserve and promote the legacy of Hip Hop as an original American art form. When greedy landlords wanted to close the apartment building on Sedgwick Avenue, where DJ Kool Herc first disk jockeyed beside an emcee and lots of hardworking people lived, we stopped them,” said Senator Charles Schumer. “I’m proud to honor Hip Hop’s history and its lasting influence with this Senate resolution, which acknowledges the evolution of Hip Hop culture and the tremendous impact it has had on our society and across the globe.”

“As we commemorate the 50th anniversary of Hip Hop, we honor the genre’s contributions to our society and remember the lived experiences of our people who, through music, have changed the world,” Rep. Maxine Waters said. “Some of the early Hip Hop legends came out of the greater Los Angeles area, and through their lyrics managed to tell honest stories about our struggles and our triumphs. I’ve always said that there is no better way to tell our stories than for us to tell them ourselves and on our terms. Hip Hop, from its birth, has always given voice to the unheard and has served as a catalyst for change that moves our community, our culture, and our country forward. I am proud to join Rep. Jamaal Bowman in co-leading the reintroduction of this resolution.”

“Hip Hop is a critical part of America’s culture and our democracy,” said Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove. “From California’s own Hip Hop legends like Tupac to Nipsey Hussle, Black Americans in particular have used Hip Hop to advance movements and build community. I am glad to join Congressman Bowman and Senator Schumer in introducing this bicameral resolution to honor the legacy of Hip Hop as we mark its 50th anniversary this year. Hip Hop has touched nearly every American and impacted every community across the country, and we should shine a light on the work that Hip Hop artists and entertainers continue to do to make a difference in people’s lives.”

“Hip Hop has come a long way from its roots in The Bronx, NYC, traveling around the world for 50 years, to being recognized in The House with this Hip Hop Resolution, as the saying goes Hip Hop Don’t Stop!” said LeRoy McCarthy of Heterodoxx, Inc. “Thank you to Rep. Bowman, government officials and staff, for this magnanimous honor for Hip Hop.”

“Thank you Representative Bowman, the U.S. Congress members and staff, for the 2023 Hip Hop Resolution,” said Kool Herc and Cindy Campbell. “We are looking forward to the continuous support and love from America for Hip Hop Arts and Culture into the future.”

REP. BOWMAN STATEMENT ON SCOTUS DECISION TO OVERTURN STUDENT DEBT RELIEF FOR 43 MILLION AMERICANS

WASHINGTON, D.C — Today, the Supreme Court of the United States released their 6-3 decision in Biden v. Nebraska overturning President Biden’s student loan debt relief plan.

Congressman Jamaal Bowman released the following statement in response:

“This morning, the Supreme Court demolished the possibility of financial freedom for 43 million Americans. Republicans have consistently tried to block student loan relief from their constituents while they sit back and have their business loans forgiven. Millions of Americans deserve and would benefit from student debt relief. Black and brown Americans who have experienced the consequences of the racial wealth gap deserve relief. Young people who grew up hearing that education is the key to success and were victimized by predatory loan policies deserve relief. Working Americans who didn’t get the opportunity to finish their degree and don’t benefit from generational wealth deserve relief. Student debt relief is a racial and economic justice issue. The burden that student debt places on families is immense and unforgiving. I will always continue fighting for hard working people who are drowning in debt and to make sure that every person, no matter their background, has access to an affordable, high quality education.”

NEWS: Congressman Jamaal Bowman Gets Gaveled at 9 Times After Calling Out Republicans for Racist on the Committee of Education & Workforce

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today on the Committee of Education & Workforce, Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16) called out Republicans for their vitriol filled resolution demanding schools not house migrants. You can watch the video here.

On the Racist Resolution:

“Now, I know none of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle will admit to being racist, and I don’t think they are. But when you look at the rhetoric and you hear the talking points and look at the legislation they put forward, what are we to say?”

On Chairwoman Foxx Gaveling:

“It’s just very frustrating because it seems like the legislation itself engages in personalities when it refers to a group of people that is derogatory. So if the legislation is doing it and we’re using words on the other side of the aisle like invasion as if it’s an army coming to our country, is that not personalities?”

On Anti-immigrant Sentiment and the Great Replacement Theory:

“Much of this anti-immigrant rhetoric and policy is aligned to something called the Great Replacement Theory, which was condemned by this Congress in last Congress. And I am proud to be the author of that resolution. The Great Replacement Theory states that the white race is under attack by Blacks, Jews and immigrants. And we must do something about it. And many of the mass shooters in our country have identified the Great Replacement Theory as being the motivating factor to their mass shooting, including the Buffalo mass shooting, mass shooting in upstate New York. So the hateful, divisive rhetoric is in the resolution and the hateful, divisive rhetoric is a part of one of the amendments. This hateful, divisive rhetoric is historical, as per redlining, and the anti-immigrant sentiment is directly connected to the Great Replacement Theory.

Rep. Bowman Devastated by Shooting of 14-year-old Boy in Mount Vernon

MOUNT VERNON, NY – Yesterday, a 14-year-old boy was shot and killed outside Levister Towers in Mount Vernon. Congressman Jamaal Bowman Ed.D. (NY-16) released the following statement in response.

“I just learned of the devastating news that a 14-year-old boy was shot and killed yesterday in Mount Vernon. My deepest condolences, love, and strength to the mother, family and friends of this young man. Our children are so precious and so vulnerable. We must do everything in our power to protect them. The scourge of gun violence in our communities must end. We must come together as a community to help and support our most vulnerable families and children. We all have something to offer to support our communities. Parents, educators, law enforcement, elected officials, organizations, and activists must come together and work hand in hand. We can and we must end senseless violence. Right now. Today.”

Dingell, Bowman, Casey, Introduce Legislation to Make Home Care Coverage Mandatory Under Medicaid

WASHINGTON Today, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Congressman Jamaal Bowman Ed.D. (NY-16), and Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) introduced the HCBS Access Act to make HCBS a mandatory benefit within Medicaid and ensure eligible older adults and people with disabilities have the option to choose between home care and institutional care. The HCBS Access Act would also strengthen the caregiving work force, providing respite for family caregivers, creating jobs and revenue, and increasing wages for home care providers.

The Senate legislation is co-led by Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), and Tim Kaine (D-VA).

“Everyone should have the right to age in place and thrive in their own home and community. And it is simply a scandal that in the wealthiest nation on the planet, older adults and people with disabilities cannot access affordable home care,” said Congressman Jamaal Bowman Ed.D. “I know from firsthand experience in my own family how hard it is to access that kind of care in the United States today, and how hard it is to be a professional home care worker trying to get by on poverty wages. Addressing the home care crisis is one of the major unfinished pieces of President Biden’s agenda — and I couldn’t be more proud to join Rep. Dingell and Sens. Casey, Kaine, Hassan, and Brown in introducing the landmark HCBS Access Act, which will finally transform our patchwork home care system into something that meets the needs of all people, families, and workers in this country.”

“Caregiving is the foundation of our economy. It allows for all other work to be possible. We know that the majority of elderly people and individuals with disabilities would prefer to receive care in their homes, where they can maintain an independent life and remain engaged in their communities,” said Dingell. “No one should have to sit for years on a waiting list to get the care they deserve, and caregivers shouldn’t have to live in poverty to do their critical work. As many know, this is deeply personal for me – I was lucky to have my husband John receive care at home, but many others do not have the same opportunity. The HCBS Access Act would significantly improve our broken care system by clearing waiting lists and ensuring more people can access home care, strengthening wages and support for home care workers, and providing family care givers with much needed relief.”

“The caregiving crisis in this country leaves millions of seniors and people with disabilities without a meaningful choice of where they can receive essential, life-sustaining care. It corners many family caregivers into upending their careers and living on poverty wages or performing unpaid work because they have no other options. This is not the way that a great Nation treats seniors and families,” said Casey. “It is time we make the smart economic investment in home and community-based services. My HCBS Access Act would provide seniors and people with disabilities with a real and significant choice between receiving care in a long-term care facility or at home, where so many of them wish to stay, and ensure that paid caregivers can turn poverty jobs into family-sustaining jobs.”

People eligible for Medicaid long-term services and supports (LTSS) are offered immediate access to nursing homes or other institutional settings. However, if they want to remain in their homes with the help of Medicaid HCBS, they are often put on a waiting list and can wait years or even decades for direct care services as Medicaid will not pay for home care unless a waiver has been granted. Because so many people are on waiting lists for Medicaid HCBS, most long-term care is provided by family, and most family caregivers are unpaid. The average family caregiver spends over a quarter of their income on caregiving activities and many must forgo promotions or work reduced hours in order to provide care.

The HCBS Access Act is designed to ensure eligible older adults and people with disabilities have a real choice of care and support options between home care and institutional care. The bill would, over time, eliminate HCBS waiting lists and the need for states to repeatedly apply for HCBS waivers. Specifically, the bill would:

Increase Medicaid funding for home- and community-based services;
Provide grant funding for states to expand their capacity to meet the needs of people who prefer HCBS;
Make steps to improve the stability, availability, and quality of direct care providers to help address the decades-long workforce shortage crisis;
Provide states with resources so that caregiving workers—who are disproportionately women of color—have stable, quality jobs and a living wage;
Provide training and support for family caregivers; and
Create better evaluation measures to assess the quality of HCBS being provided.

Congressman Jamaal Bowman Enraged by Reports that the Biden Administration May Reinstate Family Immigration Detention Centers

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, reports that the Biden Administration may be reinstating Trump-era family immigration detention centers surfaced. Congressman Jamaal Bowman Ed.D. (NY-16) released the following statement in response:

“I was enraged to hear of the most recent announcement that the Biden Administration may be reinstating Trump-era detention of migrant families. We are seeing this administration repackage some of the most damaging immigration policies that arose under Trump, contributing to a consensus that such policies are acceptable in the United States. Let me be clear: detaining families, mothers, and children is not “securing our borders.” Putting restrictions on our asylum system, a system protected under International and domestic law, is not “being strong on immigration.” Barring anyone from entry that does not use an app, which is rife with equity and technical problems, is not “leadership on immigration.” The only thing these policies accomplish is to spread more divisive and false rhetoric around who immigrants are and ensure that we fall short on what is required of us as a nation to support them.

“President Biden has the power to move us toward an immigration system that leads with compassion, respect, and empathy. The creation of this system would require visionary leadership that is not currently reflected in the immigration policies coming from the administration – but they’re more than capable of making positive changes to the system. I call upon President Biden to approach this issue with humanity and compassion. I implore him to reverse the harmful policies he has already instituted and to avoid implementing additional harmful policies, such as family detention.”

Ahead of Two College Admissions Supreme Court Cases, Bowman, Merkley, Wilson Urge Department of Education to Address Racial and Ethnic Gaps in Higher Education

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, along with Representatives Jamaal Bowman (D-NY-16) and Frederica Wilson (D-FL-24), led 15 of their colleagues in a letter urging the Department of Education (ED) to better address racial and ethnic gaps in higher education access and attainment by expanding the collection of college admissions data.

“Despite a shrinking difference in racial and ethnic gaps of high school diploma attainment, there remains a significant and worrisome gap between Black, Hispanic, and Native American adults and white adults in the attainment of bachelor’s degrees,” wrote the lawmakers.

In order for policymakers and other stakeholders to adequately understand and address these gaps, more data is needed.

“We are deeply concerned with the persistent racial inequities in access to postsecondary education and in the attainment of bachelor’s degrees; to adequately address the issue, researchers, leaders, and policymakers require more information,” the lawmakers continued. “As such, we urge ED to use its authority […] to expand its collection and dissemination of admissions data while also disaggregating that data by race, ethnicity and gender.”

The lawmakers’ letter highlights that ED does not currently collect data on legacy preferences, early decision, or early action admissions, which have shown to negatively impact diversity and equity at the colleges that employ these admissions options. ED also does not collect disaggregated data for applicants or admitted applicants based on race or ethnicity, further complicating the effort to address longstanding inequities in higher education.

“The need for transparency in college admissions may become even more important should the Supreme Court end the consideration of race-conscious admissions policies later this year. Race-conscious admissions policies are a critical tool for advancing racial equity, diversity, and access in higher education,” they wrote. “After the elimination of such practices in both California and Texas, admissions rates for Black and Hispanic students dropped precipitously, leading to long-term, negative effects on the income and social mobility of Black and Hispanic communities, many of whom were denied access to the personal, professional, and socioeconomic growth so often facilitated by higher education.”

In order to increase transparency and close the gap on higher education attainment, the lawmakers’ letter specifically asks ED to include three new components to its data collection efforts: Racial and ethnic demographic data for applicants, admits, and enrollments;

whether an institution of higher education (IHE) uses legacy preferences; and

whether an IHE uses early action or early decision admissions.

The letter also asks that the last two questions account for the number of applications, admits, and enrollments that are impacted by those categories to be disaggregated by race, ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status.

“The inclusion of these three components would allow for stakeholders to track racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities throughout the entirety of the admissions process and see how the practices of legacy admissions and early decision impact access and diversity in higher education,” the lawmakers conclude. “Increasing transparency is a powerful signal that this administration can send about its commitment to diversity and access in postsecondary education.”

Merkley and Bowman are the authors of the Fair College Admissions for Students Act, which would end the practice of colleges and universities giving legacy admissions preferences to the children of alumni and donors. Joining Merkley, Bowman, and Wilson in today’s letter are Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Cory Booker (D-NJ) as well as Representatives Jill Tokuda (D-HI-02), André Carson (D-IN-07), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30), Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ-07), Shontel Brown (D-OH-11), Yvette Clarke (D-NY-09), Bennie Thompson (D-MS-02), Alma Adams (D-NC-12), Troy Carter (D-LA-02), Joyce Beatty (D-OH-03), Greg Casar (D-TX-35), and Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO-05).

The lawmakers’ letter echoes a similar request made by education and civil rights advocacy organizations including Education Reform Now, the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund, National Urban League, The Education Trust, The Institute for College Access and Success, College Promise, UnidosUS, Third Way, and others.

“Far too many students are left out of higher education. It’s imperative that leaders commit to holding colleges and universities accountable to admitting diverse student bodies. In order to do so, we need greater transparency in college admissions. By expanding the breadth of admissions data collected and disaggregating it by race, ethnicity, and socio-economic status, the Department of Education would shine a light on which schools are serving as gatekeepers to privilege and which schools are making a commitment to equity and social mobility,” said Shakira Petit, Interim CEO, Education Reform Now.

MAYOR ADAMS RESTORES FUNDING TO KEEP CITY STREETS AND PARKS CLEAN, FIGHT RATS

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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CON EDISON TO AWARD $3 MILLION OVER 3 YEARS TO SUPPORT CLIMATE JUSTICE & RESILIENCY IN NYC & WESTCHESTER

CON EDISON AWARDS $4 MILLION IN GRANTS TO TRAIN NEW YORK’S NEXT CLEAN ENERGY WORKFORCE

CON EDISON CREWS MOBILIZING FOR TUESDAY MORNING SNOW AND WINDSTORM Company is Ready to Respond to Service Problems; Storm Could Bring Down Power Lines; Stay Away from Downed Lines for Your Own Safety

CON EDISON LAUNCHES FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND MANAGED CHARGING REWARDS PROGRAM FOR COMMERCIAL OPERATORS

CON EDISON PROVIDES $5 MILLION FOR LARGEST RESIDENTIAL ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING PROJECT IN NYC Site Will Have 423 Level 2 Charging Stations and Accelerate EV Adoption in Region

CON EDISON’S RELIABLE CLEAN CITY – IDLEWILD PROJECT RECEIVES STATE AUTHORIZATION

NYC EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ISSUES TRAVEL ADVISORY FOR SNOW & POSSIBLE FREEZING PRECIPITATION MONDAY NIGHT INTO TUESDAY

CON EDISON CREWS MOBILIZING FOR TUESDAY NIGHT’S RAIN AND WINDSTORM Company Reminds the Public to Stay Away from Downed Wires; Company Calling on Mutual Aid Crews to Restore Customers

NYC EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ISSUES TRAVEL ADVISORY FOR WINTER STORM

Con Edison Update on Midtown Steam Response: Company to Wash Buildings and Streets

Midtown Steam Response

CON EDISON CREWS MOBILIZING FOR STORM Company Reminds the Public to Stay Away from Downed Wires; Company and Mutual Aid Crews Ready to Respond

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

CON EDISON CUSTOMERS’ SOLAR ENERGY INSTALLATIONS ON PACE FOR ANOTHER RECORD-BREAKING YEAR

PSC Adopts New Con Edison Steam Rates

CON EDISON PROPOSES LONG-TERM INVESTMENTS TO PROTECT SYSTEM FROM CLIMATE CHANGE Upgrades Would Prevent Outages, Protect Public Safety

CON EDISON WINS 2023 ReliabilityOne® AWARDS FOR OUTSTANDING ELECTRIC SERVICE

CON EDISON OFFERS CONSUMER-FRIENDLY PROGRAMS TO HELP CUSTOMERS SAVE ON WINTER BILLS; URGES CUSTOMERS TO CONSERVE ENERGY

CON EDISON SAYS REGION IS WARMING QUICKLY AS CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS ACCELERATE Update to 2019 Research Predicts Faster Increase of Extreme Hot Temperatures

CON EDISON BREAKS GROUND ON BROOKLYN CLEAN ENERGY HUB Substation Will Offer Connections for Offshore Wind; Construction Will Create More than 500 Union Jobs

CON EDISON, NYS PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION TO ANNOUNCE MAJOR CLEAN ENERGY PROJECT

CON EDISON MOBILIZES FOR LATE-SUMMER HEAT Company Urges Customers to Use Energy Wisely, Save Money on Their Bills

CON EDISON URGES LOW-INCOME CUSTOMERS TO ENROLL IN THE ENERGY AFFORDABILITY PROGRAM Eligible Customers Can Receive a Credit of Up to $158 on Monthly Energy Bills

CON EDISON CUSTOMERS EMBRACE SOLAR ENERGY, EV CHARGERS, MOVING NEW YORK AWAY FROM FOSSIL FUELS

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

State of the State address

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

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

DEATH OF PUTIN FOE—NAVALNY—RINGS URGENT ALARM BELL THAT DEMANDS HOUSE PASS BIPARTISAN NATIONAL SECURITY BILL WITH DIRE HELP FOR UKRAINE INCLUDED; BILL SITS AT FEET OF SPEAKER JOHNSON WHILE PUTIN WAITS TO SEE WHAT THE U.S. WILL DO, IF ANYTHING

SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE OVER $8 MILLION TO SUPPORT THE ARTS, MUSIC, AND BOOST EDUCATIONAL & CULTURAL PROGRAMMING ACROSS NEW YORK THROUGH THE NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS

SCHUMER URGES CONGRESS TO ACT QUICKLY TO AVOID NEEDLESS GOVT SHUTDOWN THAT WILL OCCUR FRIDAY IF HOUSE & SENATE DON'T ACT; ANNOUNCES HE WILL BRING BILL TO FLOOR THIS TUESDAY; SHUTDOWN WOULD HURT NEW YORK & NATION; SENATOR MADE SURE NEW YORK WASN’T SINGLED-OUT FOR NASTY CUTS

SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND, OCASIO-CORTEZ DELIVER $15 MILLION, THROUGH BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE & JOBS LAW, TO BUILD ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING DEPOT IN THE BRONX; CHARGING STATION IN HUNTS POINT WILL SERVICE BOTH FREIGHT & PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH 20 FAST EV CHARGING PORTS AND 8 LEVEL 2 CHARGERS

SCHUMER DELIVERS OVER $60 MILLION THROUGH THE BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE & JOBS LAW FOR 180 NEW CLEAN, ELECTRIC SCHOOL BUSES AND BUS CHARGERS FOR NEW YORK CITY

NEW AGREEMENT WITH CHINA ON FENTANYL COULD BE MAJOR STEP FORWARD TO CURB OPIOID CRISIS IN THE BRONX, BUT NOW WE NEED TO HOLD CHINA ACCOUNTABLE AND MAKE SURE THERE IS COMPLIANCE; SENATOR DETAILS NEW DEAL WITH CHINA TO CRACK DOWN ON ILLICIT FENTANYL AND VOWS TO WATCH LIKE A HAWK FOR PROGRESS

SCHUMER JOINS STRIKING UAW WORKERS ON THE PICKET LINE IN NEW YORK AND CALLS ON AUTOMAKERS TO BARGAIN IN GOOD FAITH

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

SCHUMER URGES HOUSE TO PASS SENATE LEGISLATION THAT WILL DRAMATICALLY STOP FLOW OF FENTANYL TO U.S., NYC, LI & BEYOND; SENATOR JUST PASSED BILL TO IMPOSE TOUGH SANCTIONS ON CHINA, MEXICO—BUT HOUSE HAS TO FINISH JOB; WILL DEAL BIG BLOW TO THE FENTANYL SUPPLY CHAIN KILLING AMERICANS

STANDING AT TONY BENNETT’S BENCH IN CENTRAL PARK, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES HE WILL INTRODUCE RESOLUTION TO DECLARE AUGUST 3RD—SINGER’S BIRTHDAY—AS “TONY BENNETT DAY”; BELOVED ARTIST FROM QUEENS WAS NEW YORK THROUGH & THROUGH & JUST SHY OF HIS 97TH BIRTHDAY

Breaking News From Major

Key Updates

Highlights From the City Hall Press Office:

Additional Resources:

MAYOR ADAMS, NYC HEALTH + HOSPITALS TO OPEN 16 MENTAL HEALTH CLINICS IN NEW YORK CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

MAYOR ADAMS CELEBRATES LARGEST ALL-AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROJECT IN 40 YEARS, CITY’S FIRST SOCCER-SPECIFIC STADIUM MOVING FORWARD AFTER WILLETS POINT PHASE 2 VOTE

MAYOR ADAMS UNVEILS NEW DETAILS OF SKYLINE-SHAPING OFFICE TOWER, BOLSTERS ONGOING RESURGENCE OF MIDTOWN MANHATTAN

MAYOR ADAMS LAUNCHES PILOT TO RAPIDLY CONNECT FAMILIES FLEEING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE WITH PERMANENT HOUSING

MAYOR ADAMS’ STATEMENT IN RESPONSE TO FRUITFUL NEW YORK STATE BUDGET AGREEMENT

MAYOR ADAMS’ STATEMENT FOLLOWING IRAN’S DRONE ATTACK ON ISRAEL

MAYOR ADAMS, DOT COMMISSIONER RODRIGUEZ LAUNCH LOCKERNYC TO COMBAT PACKAGE THEFT AND REDUCE DELIVERY TRUCK TRAFFIC

MAYOR ADAMS CELEBRATES HOUSING MILESTONE AHEAD OF SCHEDULE, WITH PLANS TO REDEVELOP BRONX LIBRARY INTO NEW FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOUSING AND STATE-OF-THE-ART LIBRARY

MAYOR ADAMS’ STATEMENT ON 4.8 MAGNITUTE EARTHQUAKE FELT IN NEW YORK CITY

MAYOR ADAMS, CORPORATION COUNSEL HINDS-RADIX ANNOUNCE LAWSUIT AGAINST 11 COMPANIES ILLEGALLY DISTRIBUTING DISPOSABLE FLAVORED E-CIGARETTES

MAYOR ADAMS LAUNCHES WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL TO UNLOCK NEW JOB OPPORTUNITIES FOR NEW YORKERS

MAYOR ADAMS LAUNCHES FIVE-BOROUGH MULTIFAITH TOUR, BRINGING TOGETHER MULTIDENOMINATIONAL LEADERS TO DISCUSS ISSUES FACING THEIR COMMUNITIES

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