Involuntary Commitment Changes; New Hate Crimes Prevention Director; NonProfit Services Director; Drought Watch Lifted; NYC Health + Hospitals Possible Strike; Kingsbridge Armory Reimagining
MAYOR ADAMS’ STATEMENT IN RESPONSE TO GOVERNOR HOCHUL’S PLANS TO INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO FINALLY CHANGE NEW YORK’S INVOLUNTARY COMMITMENT STANDARDS
Editor’s note: Staten Islander previously covered the drought watch and the downgraded drought warning, as well as some of the homeless outreach the Mayor’s Office has undertaken in recent months to address the problem of chronic homelessness in the city. We’ve also covered some of the efforts the city has made to reduce hate crimes and hold criminals accountable.
NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams released the following statement in response to New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s plans to introduce legislation to finally change New York’s involuntary commitment standards:
“Denying a person life-saving psychiatric care because their mental illness prevents them from recognizing their desperate need for it is an unacceptable abdication of our moral responsibility. That is why, two years ago, our administration announced an ambitious plan to support New Yorkers living with untreated severe mental illness and experiencing homelessness, which included a new city protocol on involuntary removals and a package of proposed state legal reforms to maximize our ability to serve this population. The Supportive Interventions Act would ensure that those struggling with severe mental illness receive the help they need, instead of the current and unacceptable status quo of waiting for something tragic to happen.
“Several recent incidents have shown what happens when these issues go untreated. As we have repeatedly said, we cannot wait for change. That’s why, since the start of our administration, we’ve put nearly every possible solution into action within the city’s control without passage of this law: we’ve restored all public hospital psychiatric beds that were closed during the pandemic, doubled outreach staffing at the Department of Homeless Services, aggressively expanded specialized shelters like Safe Havens and stabilization beds, brought more than 1,400 new beds online, and connected thousands of unsheltered New Yorkers on the subway system to critical services through SCOUT, PATH, and other programs.
“With today’s announcement, we are exceptionally grateful to Governor Hochul for listening to our calls and to the calls of everyday New Yorkers, and we look forward to working with her to develop next steps to finally codify these changes into law. There is no dignity in withering away on the streets without the ability to help yourself, and there is no moral superiority in just walking by those individuals and doing nothing. We must stop being so idealistic that we’re not realistic.”
MAYOR ADAMS APPOINTS VIJAH RAMJATTAN AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF MAYOR’S OFFICE FOR THE PREVENTION OF HATE CRIMES
Erica Ware to Serve as Deputy Executive Director, Jelissa Thomas to Serve as Senior Project Manager
NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced the appointment of Vijah Ramjattan as the executive director of the New York City Mayor’s Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes (OPHC). As executive director, Ramjattan will oversee the office’s interagency efforts to combat hate crimes using community-based programs, and provide support to victims of hate and bias crimes. Joining Ramjattan at OPHC are deputy executive director Erica Ware and senior project manager Jelissa Thomas.
“New York City is the greatest city in the world because of our extensive diversity, and to stamp out hate wherever it rears its ugly head, we need a leader that will help ensure that New Yorkers have the tools needed to be part of the solution,” said Mayor Adams. “I am proud to announce the appointment of Vijah Ramjattan as the executive director of the Mayor’s Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes. While hate crimes are down in our city, year over year, Vijah’s decade worth experience in community engagement, advocacy in marginalized communities, and mental health counseling makes him uniquely qualified to hit the ground running and combat hate crimes across the five boroughs.”
“Nelson Mandela once said, ‘No one is born hating another person… People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love,’” said Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Chauncey Parker. “We fight hate by loving our neighbors. That is the North Star of the Mayor’s Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes — bringing neighbors together to break bread, learn from each other, and see each other as fellow human beings; teaching kids about empathy and tolerance; and helping and healing victims of hate crimes. I look forward to working with Executive Director Ramjattan and the team to achieve this mission.”
“We at the Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice are excited to welcome this dynamic team to continue the vital work of the Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes,” said Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice (MOCJ) Director Deanna Logan. “Vijah is a longstanding community leader, with extensive experience in evidence-based community practices. There is no place for hate in our city, and the Mayor’s Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes works with community partners through education, engagement, and shared humanity over a modest meal to meet hate with love and stand firmly in opposition to any incidents of bias or hate crimes. Vijah, Erica, and Jelissa’s commitment to safety, fairness, and equity will be an asset to this work, bridging the gap between data and community to enhance safety for all New Yorkers.”
“I’m thrilled to join this administration to implement Mayor Adams’ vision of a city free of hate and bias. OPHC and its partners are a vital part of our city’s defense against the kinds of hate and bias that can undermine our public safety,” said Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes Executive Director Vijah Ramjattan. “Hate and bias have no place in New York City and I’m proud to join the Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice under Director Logan’s leadership. I look forward to leading the OPHC team in supporting safe and hate-free communities.”
Earlier this year, OPHC announced the release of “Teaching About Hate Crimes and Their Impacts,” a series of lessons designed to teach students in New York City public schools about hate crimes and bias incidents, as well as their impact on individuals and communities. Teaching About Hate Crimes and their Impacts is an OPHC initiative that combats hate, bias, and discrimination. In early 2023, Mayor Adams launched “Breaking Bread, Building Bonds,” which aimed to bring 10,000 New Yorkers together to learn about common bonds, share cultures and traditions, and break down silos. Breaking Bread, Building Bonds surpassed that goal by bringing more than 15,000 New Yorkers together with the support of the Mayor’s Community Affairs Unit, the New York City Commission on Human Rights, the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development, and other city agencies.
About Vijah Ramjattan
Vijah Ramjattan serves as executive director of OPHC. Ramjattan has over a decade worth of experience in mental health counseling, compliance research practices, and community engagement and advocacy in marginalized communities.
Before being appointed to this role, he served as a senior clinical research program administrator for the New York State Psychiatric Institute-Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene. He previously served as counselor and grievance coordinator on Rikers Island for the New York City Department of Correction.
Earlier in his career, Ramjattan served as president of the Council District 28 Community Education Council, as well as a founder and member of faith-based and community-based organizations, including the New York City Public Schools Interfaith Advisory Council, the United American Hindu Leadership Council, the United Madrassi Association, and multiple mayoral advisory councils. He has also served as an interfaith chaplain for NYC Health + Hospitals/Queens.
Ramjattan earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Comparative Religion from The City University of New York’s Hunter College.
Ramjattan reports to MOCJ Director Logan.
About Erica Ware
Erica Ware serves as deputy executive director at OPHC. Ware brings more than a decade of community-based services and victim advocacy to OPHC. She previously served as the deputy director of the Victim Services Unit for the Office of the District Attorney of Richmond County, where she supported victims of gun violence. She was a 2022 Advocate of the Year for the New York City Office to End Gender-Based Violence. Ware holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the College of Staten Island.
Ware reports to OPHC Executive Director Ramjattan.
About Jelissa Thomas Jelissa Thomas serves as senior program manager of OPHC. Thomas is a seasoned educator who previously served as a master teacher and teacher coach for the Equity Project Charter School. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Masters in Education.
Thomas reports to OPHC Executive Director Ramjattan.
MAYOR ADAMS APPOINTS MICHAEL SEDILLO AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF MAYOR’S OFFICE OF NONPROFIT SERVICES, ANNOUNCES SEVERAL NEW EFFORTS TO PAY NONPROFIT PROVIDERS FASTER
Mayor’s Office of Contract Services Payment Backlog Initiative Unlocked Over $1 Billion to Providers in Three Months
Discretionary Contract Reform Has Reduced Payment Processing Times by Nearly 90 Percent in Last Year
Led by Deputy Mayor Almanzar, Adams Administration Launches Nonprofit FOCUS Working Group to Bring Executive Accountability and Timely Decision-Making
NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced the appointment of Michael Sedillo as the executive director of the New York City Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services. Sedillo will oversee the office’s efforts across city government to develop and promote a culture of customer service, introduce data-driven performance management measures, and reform practices, policies, and procedures to support nonprofits to contract with and deliver essential services to the city more easily.
Mayor Adams also announced progress on several new efforts to help pay nonprofit providers faster. The Mayor’s Office of Contract Services (MOCS) launched a Payment Backlog Initiative in October 2024, focusing on clearing outstanding payments from Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 to FY25. In three months, over $1 billion was disbursed, and over 3,700 invoices were processed. Since announcing reforms to simplify bureaucratic barriers and allowing nonprofits to invoice faster in summer 2024, the average time to process discretionary contracts making use of this reform dropped from 366 days in FY24 to just 46 days in FY25 — a nearly 90 percent reduction, slashing nearly 11 months of delays. Finally, the Adams administration has launched the Nonprofit FOCUS (Facilitating On-Time Contracting & Urgent Solutions) Working Group, led by Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Ana Almanzar. Nonprofit FOCUS brings together senior City Hall officials on a weekly basis to examine contract performance data and make key programmatic, policy, or budgetary decisions that support expeditious nonprofit payments.
“Nonprofit workers never hesitate to answer the call from our city, whether it’s an international humanitarian crisis, a global pandemic, or helping a neighbor in need. The last thing they should have to worry about is getting paid on time,” said Mayor Adams. “Today’s announcement is a step in the right direction, proving that reforms are working on cutting red tape, and agencies are sprinting to unlock hundreds of millions for providers. Leading our efforts to get that work done is Michael Sedillo, a leader with a track record of delivering for working-class New Yorkers. Thanks to his leadership with ‘Jobs NYC’ and launching our community hiring efforts, Michael has helped move our city forward and will bring this same expertise to helping the nonprofit sector get paid faster. Our work is far from finished, but I want each and every provider to know that our administration remains committed to not just clearing our backlog, but preventing another one from ever happening.”
“Michael Sedillo has a proven track record of cutting through bureaucracy and driving results that directly benefit New Yorkers, especially those most in need. His leadership in reforming city contracting processes and unlocking critical resources for nonprofits has already made a significant impact,” said Deputy Mayor Almanzar. “With his appointment as executive director of the Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services, Michael will continue our mission to streamline processes, ensure timely payments, and remove obstacles that prevent our nonprofit sector from operating at its full potential. This is a crucial step in ensuring that the organizations that are on the front lines of addressing our city’s most pressing challenges can continue their vital work without unnecessary delays.”
“I am a proud public servant with a clear North Star: Use the power of government to ensure people — especially those in need — understand they are not alone,” said Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services Executive Director Michael Sedillo. “I want to thank Mayor Adams, Deputy Mayor Almanzar, and all the inspiring leaders at City Hall for placing their trust in me. To my fellow public servants and nonprofit partners: In me, you have an enthusiastic partner who will be here for you, just like you are there for New Yorkers.”
Mayor Adams is working to immediately clear backlogged payments and implement long-term solutions to prevent further delays. In addition to the over $1 billion already disbursed and over 3,700 invoices processed since October 2024, MOCS is addressing unregistered amendments that have delayed payments and is providing additional training, office hours, and best practice guidance to agencies to help prevent future backlogs.
The discretionary contract reform was projected to eliminate a total of nine months of discretionary contracting process time for nonprofits every year, beginning in the out-years for applicable contracts. Instead of requiring nonprofits that receive City Council discretionary spending to register a new contract every year, the new reform allows nonprofits to enter into multi-year contracts without needing to complete the entire procurement process annually. In years past, over 99 percent of these awards were not registered within six months of their start date and took an average of 366 days in FY24. Today’s announcement is a clear indicator that the reforms are making it easier to pay nonprofits and reducing a significant bureaucratic delay nonprofits conveyed early on in the administration.
The Nonprofit FOCUS Working Group represents shared alignment across the highest levels of City Hall to support the vital nonprofit sector and help them get paid on time. This group of government leaders will meet every week to oversee agency actions toward clearing the payment backlog.
Today’s announcement builds on the Adams administration’s continued efforts to support, make significant investments in, and enact policies to support the nonprofit sector in New York City. In March, the Adams administration announced a $741 million investment for an estimated 80,000 human services workers employed by nonprofit 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 also worked with MOCS on the “Clear the Backlog” initiative, which has unlocked over $6 billion in funds for nonprofits that were long overdue, allowing these organizations to get paid for delivering their vital services. Finally, earlier this year, Mayor Adams announced the city’s first-ever Nonprofit Advisory Council. Comprised of leaders and experts in the nonprofit sector, the advisory council works with MONS to serve as a link between the Adams administration and the nonprofit organizations serving New Yorkers.
About Michael Sedillo
Michael Sedillo brings a proven track record within city government of cutting red tape, unlocking critically-needed resources and funding for nonprofits, and spearheading issues that support job creation for working-class New Yorkers.
Sedillo started his career in New York City government as a change management analyst at MOCS. He joined City Hall in 2019 under then-Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Phil Thompson as his deputy chief of staff before joining the current Adams administration as a senior advisor.
In 2022, he led an initiative to clear a backlog of unregistered contracts that unlocked more than $6 billion in contractual dollars for providers. In 2023, he led a successful Albany legislative campaign to win passage of the historic community hiring program, which leverages the city’s purchasing power to create thousands of jobs for low-income New Yorkers.
Sedillo also led efforts that resulted in a 30 percent reduction in the city’s job vacancies from its 2022 peak. Through “Jobs NYC,” Sedillo oversaw efforts to reduce disproportionately high unemployment rates in each borough. The Jobs NYC team hosted 25 hiring halls across the city, engaging over 8,000 New Yorkers in public- and private-sector job opportunities.
Before joining New York City municipal government, Sedillo started his career in the San Francisco Bay Area as a 2010 Teach For America corps member.
Sedillo earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Communication from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Public Administration from Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs.
Sedillo will report to Deputy Mayor Almanzar.
“I am pleased that Mayor Adams has appointed Michael Sedillo as the executive director of the New York City Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services to advance new efforts to help pay nonprofit providers faster,” said New York State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud, chair, Committee on Social Services. “I look forward to the development and building of a culture centered on customer service, data-driven performance, and clear-cut policy and procedural reforms to support our nonprofits.”
“Nonprofits make our city tick, boasting $12 billion in contracts with New York City. They provide essential services like foster care, supportive housing, crime prevention, immigrant services, senior care, and community outreach,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “Michael Sedillo will bring almost a decade of City Hall experience to the Office of Nonprofit Services, so that all the organizations have user-friendly support. I am especially excited to work with him to expedite payment to nonprofits. We have already launched the Payment Backlog Initiative, which cut processing times almost 90 percent. I am building on this success, introducing the Get Nonprofits Paid Act so that the city pays all nonprofits in 30 days. Together, we will show our respect and gratitude for our nonprofits by giving them the financial support they need.”
“On behalf of United Way of New York City and the more than 600 community-based organizations we work with every day, I want to congratulate Michael Sedillo on his appointment to executive director of the New York City Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services,” said Grace Bonilla, president and CEO, United Way of New York City. “Having had the pleasure of working with Michael, I know that he is a true public servant who understands and smartly tackles the challenges in complex systems. This is the time to ensure the consistent sustainability of the nonprofit sector, as it is the backbone of the city’s most critical services. I look forward to working with him to address the myriad of challenges in the city government and nonprofit relationship.”
“Nonprofits deliver essential services for residents across New York City. It is high time that the city focuses on strengthening nonprofits in the same way it helps other businesses serving New Yorkers,” said J. Phillip Thompson, former deputy mayor for strategic policy initiatives and professor, political science and urban planning, Massachusetts Institute of Technology. “The mayor made an excellent choice in selecting Michael Sedillo to lead the Office of Nonprofit Services. Michael has led a series of important initiatives across two mayoral administrations. He is a ‘can do’ public servant who doesn’t let problems slip through the cracks. I cannot imagine a better person to take on this needed role.”
“Michael Sedillo’s appointment to lead the Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services marks an exciting new chapter for the city and its vital nonprofit partners,” said Marielys Divanne, executive director, Educators for Excellence-New York. “His proven ability to cut through red tape, secure essential funding, and champion job creation for working-class New Yorkers demonstrates the visionary leadership this role requires. We are confident that Michael will build on the progress already achieved, ensuring nonprofits have the resources they need to deliver critical services while fostering stronger partnerships between City Hall and our communities. Congratulations, Michael — we look forward to seeing all you will accomplish in this role!”
“Nonprofit organizations provide pivotal services across our great city. Thank you to Mayor Adams for his strategic vision to address the many challenges organizations face by cutting red tape, initiating discretionary contract reform, and reducing the nonprofit payment backlog,” said Jonnel Doris, chief executive officer, StartCare. “Congratulations to Michael Sedillo on his appointment as executive director of the Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services. This marks a pivotal moment for New York City’s nonprofit sector. As a devoted and experienced public servant, his vision, dedication, and transformative leadership will be an asset to the mayor’s team in helping nonprofits navigate city services. I’m excited to see him foster a landscape where organizations like StartCare can thrive.”
“Nonprofits are critical to the fabric of New York City, providing vital services and support to communities in need,” said Joy Gardner, executive director, Empire Clean Cities. “Michael Sedillo’s appointment at the Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services comes at a crucial time, offering assurance to organizations like ours that we have a champion who understands the urgency of removing bureaucratic barriers and delivering resources where they are needed most. We are confident that his dedication and expertise will strengthen the partnership between nonprofits and city government, enabling us all to continue serving New Yorkers effectively.”
“The importance of the nonprofit sector to the health and well-being of all who live and work in our city is one of the best kept secrets of New York City governance,” said Ester Fuchs; professor of public affairs and political science and director of urban and social policy program, Columbia University School of International and Public Affairs; special advisor for governance and strategic planning, former Mayor Mike Bloomberg. “Whether it’s social services, after-school programs, job training programs, or building affordable housing, New York City government relies on nonprofit partners to ensure that services are delivered effectively, equitably, and efficiently. By appointing Michael Sedillo as executive director, nonprofits not only have an advocate at City Hall, they have a seasoned and creative professional who will ensure that contract payments will be a priority and their essential services will be valued. Michael brings his creative energy, experience working with communities, and well-developed managerial skills to build this important office. I have no doubt Michael is the right person to lead this important work.”
MAYOR ADAMS LIFTS DROUGHT WATCH FOR NEW YORK CITY
Increased Rainfall and Melting Snowpack in Upstate Watershed Have Significantly Replenished Reservoir Storage Levels
November and December Saw 20 Percent Above Average Precipitation Levels Throughout Water Supply System
NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala today announced the lifting of the city’s drought watch. Strategic decision-making by DEP, conservation efforts by New Yorkers, and favorable weather conditions have together contributed to the replenishment of the city’s reservoir system — ensuring a stable water supply for millions of residents and eliminating the risk of a water shortage.
“Thanks to everyday New Yorkers stepping up to conserve water, and above-average precipitation over the last two months, we are now able to safely lift the drought warning for our city,” said Mayor Adams. “Again, our city has shown its resiliency and ability to come together during difficult times. By working together and heeding officials’ advice, we were able to avoid a much more serious drought emergency. The work of New Yorkers in conserving water these past two months has paid off, and now we can end this historic drought.”
“The lifting of the drought watch underscores the critical role of DEP’s strategic planning and adaptive management of New York City’s critical water resources,” said Commissioner Aggarwala. “I’m grateful to our fellow city agencies for their partnership and to all New Yorkers for their conservation efforts, which helped us save water. Let’s continue to use water wisely to ensure the resilience and reliability of the city’s water supply system.”
“Recent precipitation and the vigilance of New Yorkers who heeded calls to conserve water resources have alleviated dry conditions across the state,” said New York state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar. “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, DEC experts will continue to monitor conditions and work with New York City officials and localities across the state to identify any necessary steps and actions needed to help prevent additional shortages.”
Mayor Adams and Commissioner Aggarwala first issued a drought watch on November 2 during the driest spell in the city’s recorded history. The city elevated the drought watch to a drought warning on November 18 as the historic lack of precipitation led to unprecedented challenges, including wildfires within the city and the watershed. In response, DEP implemented extraordinary measures to safeguard the city’s water supply, including temporarily pausing the $2 billion Delaware Aqueduct repair project. This critical step — along with significant upstate rainfall and enhanced water supply flexibility — enabled the city to meet its water needs. By December 16, improved conditions allowed the warning to be downgraded back to a drought watch.
November and December saw abundant precipitation levels 20 percent above average in the watershed, according to rainfall data. This recent rainfall, coupled with melting snowpack, has significantly boosted reservoir levels in the Catskills and the Hudson Valley.
New York City’s vast water supply — which includes three separate reservoir systems — is resilient by design and is capable of operating effectively even during dry conditions. Pausing the Delaware Aqueduct repair project and reopening the water tunnel — the world’s longest tunnel of any kind — allowed DEP to optimize water flow while also protecting the long-term health of the water supply. DEP is optimistic that work will resume on this critical repair in the fall of 2025. Even during the drought watch and warning, DEP reaffirmed its commitment to delivering high-quality drinking water to nearly 10 million residents, including 8.3 million in New York City.
New York City has been successful in conserving water for decades. The city’s average daily water demand has decreased by approximately 35 percent over the past several decades, even as the city’s population has grown by more than 1 million people. During its peak, in 1979, the city’s average water usage was 1.5 billion gallons of water a day. Thanks to improved management strategies — systemwide leak detection and repairs, replacing old meters with automated meter readers, and providing an online platform for customers to track and monitor water usage and quickly detect leaks in their buildings — the city now uses just 1.1 billion gallons a day on average, and under 1 billion gallons during the winter months.
DEP manages the nation’s largest municipal water supply system. The water is delivered from a watershed that extends more than 125 miles from the city, comprising 19 reservoirs and three controlled lakes. Approximately 7,000 miles of water mains, tunnels, and aqueducts bring water to homes and businesses throughout the five boroughs and communities in four upstate counties.
MAYOR ADAMS REQUESTS DOCTORS COUNCIL AND HEALTH CARE PARTNERS
ENGAGE IN MEDIATION TO AVERT A STRIKE AT FOUR PUBLIC HOSPITALS
Parties Would Engage in 60-Day “Cooling Off” Period to Resolve Underlying Issues and Continue Caring for New Yorkers
Doctors Council Physicians are Employed by Private Affiliated Health Care Providers That Contract with NYC Health + Hospitals to Treat Patients at Their Facilities
NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today sent a letter to Doctors Council SEIU and private health care providers that employ them to staff NYC Health + Hospitals facilities, requesting that they engage in a mediation process to avert a strike that would affect four New York City public hospitals. The Adams administration urges that a mediation process be part of a “cooling off period” during which all of the parties attempt to resolve their differences and avoid disrupting health care being delivered to thousands of patients across the five boroughs. Mayor Adams’ letter also requests that the parties do not take further action towards a strike throughout this 60-day period and that all parties select a “mutually agreeable mediator.” Mayor Adams has offered the assistance of the New York City Office of Labor Relations and its commissioner, Renee Campion.
“Our administration is committed to providing excellent and equitable health care to New Yorkers, while also ensuring all workers in our city are treated fairly and with dignity,” said Mayor Adams. “A physicians’ strike at four public safety-net hospitals in three boroughs poses substantial risks to the health and safety of the city’s patients and our communities. That is why I have asked all parties to return to the table with the help of a mediator to come to an agreement. I also commit the efforts of Labor Relations Commissioner Campion if she can be of assistance in helping to resolve this dispute. I know each of the parties share my commitment to ensuring that high-quality care remains available to all New Yorkers, regardless of their ability to pay, and I am hopeful for a speedy solution.”
“These four hospitals provide essential care to New Yorkers, including emergency and trauma services, inpatient and burn care, behavioral health and psychiatric treatment, and ambulatory and primary care — a strike could impact the health of thousands of New Yorkers,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “The Adams administration’s efforts will be helpful to try to resolve the underlying labor dispute and advance us all towards our shared mission of health care and equity for all.”
“We value the physicians who serve patients at NYC Health + Hospitals every day,” said NYC Health + Hospitals President and CEO Mitchell Katz, MD. “Our primary goal is to prevent a strike and ensure that quality care remains uninterrupted for our patients at these four hospitals.”
On January 2, 2025, Doctors Council issued a strike notice that would affect four NYC Health + Hospital Facilities: NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi, North Central Bronx, South Brooklyn Health, and Queens. Physicians at these sites are employed by Mt. Sinai (Queens) and Physician Affiliate Group of New York (Jacobi, North Central Bronx, and South Brooklyn), which contract with NYC Health + Hospitals to provide physician services.
MAYOR ADAMS, GOVERNOR HOCHUL, AND REPRESENTATIVE ESPAILLAT UNVEIL WINNING PROPOSAL TO REIMAGINE KINGSBRIDGE ARMORY
El Centro Kingsbridge Will Include Event Space, Sports Fields, Cultural, Commercial and Community Spaces in Phase One, Affordable Housing in Phase Two
Plan Informed by “Together for Kingsbridge Vision Plan,” Backed by $215 Million City, State, and Federal Investment
NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, U.S. Representative Adriano Espaillat, and New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) President and CEO Andrew Kimball today unveiled El Centro Kingsbridge — a new plan for the future of the Kingsbridge Armory — after they kicked off a request for proposal process last summer to redevelop the historic and long-underutilized site and create new economic opportunities in the Bronx. Phase One of the project envisions a vibrant, mixed-use development with a state-of-the-art event venue space, sports fields for local youth academies, cultural and commercial space, over 25,000 square-feet of dedicated community space, an educational facility focused on workforce development, and more. Phase Two includes 450 units of permanently affordable rental housing adjacent to the armory. The redevelopment is expected to generate nearly $2.6 billion in economic impact over the next 30 years, creating over 3,000 construction jobs and 360 permanent jobs.
The development team for the project will be led by 8th Regiment Partners LLC selected through a competitive request for proposals for the development rights.
“At the Kingsbridge Armory, our administration saw a historic yet underutilized site as an opportunity to dream and deliver a bold, forward-looking vision for the Bronx,” said Mayor Adams, “In just one location, we’re delivering affordable housing for our neighbors, sports fields for our children, community spaces for our families, and so much more. The future of the Bronx rests in the Kingsbridge Armory, a proposal made possible thanks to the partnership of Governor Hochul, Representative Espaillat, and the countless, everyday New Yorkers who made their voices heard. Together, we are building a brighter, better future for the Bronx, starting with the Kingsbridge Armory.”
“For decades, Bronx residents have been promised a new Kingsbridge Armory — and we’re partnering with the city to finally get the job done,” said Governor Hochul. “This transformative project will unite communities across the Bronx, provide spaces for recreation and academics, and deliver much-needed affordable housing.”
“We are a city where we take on ambitious, generational projects that serve as models for other cities,” said First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer. “El Centro Kingsbridge follows this principle, as it will bring us cultural space, sports fields, venue space, community facility space, a recreation center, an educational facility, permanently affordable housing, and over 3,000 jobs.”
“After a competitive selection process, we are thrilled to announce 8th Regiment Partners as our partner to redevelop the historic Kingsbridge Armory,” said NYCEDC President and CEO Kimball. “8th Regiment Partners’ proposal embraced the community’s vision plan for the Armory and demonstrated through their thoughtful design, programmatic uses, and financial viability that, in partnership with the city and state, they can finally deliver the economic engine and community amenities that the Bronx wants and deserves. I want to thank Governor Hochul, Mayor Adams, Congressmember Espaillat, Bronx Borough President Gibson, and New York City Councilmember Sanchez for their remarkable support, without which this unique public-private partnership would not have been possible.”
“We will soon witness a historic transformation of the Kingsbridge Armory and thanks to the collaborative support from Mayor Adams, Governor Hochul, and stakeholders, our city is one step closer to reimagining this visionary project,” said Representative Espaillat. “Congratulations to the winning proposal, led by the 8th Regiment Partners, to develop El Centro Kingsbridge into a vibrant multi-purpose facility and economic engine that all throughout our community can enjoy for many years to come.”
“We are pleased by the progress we are making toward reimagining the iconic Kingsbridge Armory into a space that will serve the Kingsbridge community and our entire borough,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson. “El Centro Kingsbridge has the potential to boost the economy; increase tourism; invest in workforce development and small businesses; and create community space, recreational space, and opportunities for education and emerging markets. We are proud to have invested $2 million into the Kingsbridge Armory and appreciate the leadership and support of Governor Kathy Hochul, Mayor Eric Adams, the New York City Economic Development Corporation, ‘Together for Kingsbridge’ Co-Chairs Councilmember Pierina Sanchez and Sandra Lobo, and coalition members. We look forward to reimagining the Kingsbridge Armory and fulfilling the community vision that ‘Together for Kingsbridge’ has worked so hard to achieve. Together, we will work towards our common goals and priorities that serve to uplift our Kingsbridge community and our borough.”
“As a daughter of Kingsbridge, I know firsthand the Kingsbridge Armory represents the vast potential of our community,” said New York City Councilmember Pierina Sanchez, and co-chair, “Together for Kingsbridge” Community Visioning Process. “As this project enters its next stage, I remain committed to the guiding principles set forth in the ‘Together for Kingsbridge Vision Plan”: to prioritize our youth, uplift older adults, foster intergenerational relationships, create jobs and wealth for local workers, grow a regenerative, Bronx-centered economy, and maximize community ownership. Over nine months, we successfully engaged more than 4,000 community members through 20 community events and 900 survey responses — culminating in the creation of the vision plan. With our community’s priorities as the North Star, I look forward to a close review of the selected proposal. We must ensure that the redevelopment of this great structure is both transformative and equitable for generations to come.”
The project is backed by a $200 million investment by Mayor Adams and Governor Hochul, $2 million from Borough President Gibson, $12 million from Councilmember Sanchez, and a $1.05 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development with the support of Representative Espaillat. The construction will be executed under a project labor agreement, ensuring fair wages and benefits for construction workers. 8th Regiment Partners’ proposal was selected after a rigorous request for proposal process that was informed by a nine-month public engagement process with over 4,000 community members, which produced the “Together for Kingsbridge Vision Plan.” The environmental review is expected to begin this winter, and the uniform land use review procedure is anticipated to commence in mid-2025.
Renderings of the Redeveloped Kingsbridge Armory. Credit: FXCollaborative
Through a collaborative effort, led by NYCEDC, the public-engagement process gathered feedback from over 4,000 participants and included over 950 survey responses, nine Community Board meetings, 16 small group discussions, and conversations with approximately 75 additional stakeholders across various industries. Participants included local elected officials, as well as representatives from community-based organizations, nearby schools and colleges, health care providers, merchant associations, and labor.
The development team put forth a two-part proposal with a diversity of uses designed to serve both the local community and the broader region. Their proposal’s programming is centered around the 180,000 square foot column-free Drill Hall within the Armory, delivering on the community’s vision for a series of cultural, commercial, and community spaces. The development team will lead the design and construction stages of the project, as well as the operation of the renovated Armory.
Mayor Adams’ vision for the redevelopment of the Kingsbridge Armory 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. It also builds on the administration’s track record of advancing generational projects to build and reinvent neighborhoods in all five boroughs, including the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal, SPARC Kips Bay in Manhattan, the Willets Point Transformation in Queens, the Staten Island North Shore Action Plan, and more.
“We are excited for this opportunity to work with all of our government partners to transform this incredible, landmarked space into a thriving center of economic activity for the community, the borough, and the City of New York,” said Gabriella Madruga, principal, Maddd Equities on behalf of 8th Regiment Partners. “This is a wonderful example of a public-private partnership that will revitalize one of the most unique and historical buildings in New York. We are humbled to be the stewards of a property and a project that will leverage New York’s rich historical past to create an exciting and dynamic future.”
“The redevelopment of the Kingsbridge Armory is a transformational project that will see this historic structure become another major destination in the Bronx and provide much needed well-paying union construction jobs for New Yorkers,” said New York City and New York State Building and Construction Trades Council President Gary LaBarbera. “We applaud Mayor Adams and Governor Hochul for the city and state’s tremendous investment of $100 million respectively towards this development, and our members look forward to working with NYCEDC and the 8th Regiment Partners on making El Centro Kingsbridge a reality.”
“Revitalizing the Kingsbridge Armory is a monumental step forward in creating opportunities for our communities,” said New York State Senator James Sanders Jr. “This project brings jobs, affordable housing, and vital resources that will transform lives and strengthen our city. I applaud Mayor Adams, Governor Hochul, and NYCEDC for their vision and commitment to New Yorkers.”
“As we unveil the transformative El Centro Kingsbridge project, we are taking a historic step toward unlocking the immense potential of the Kingsbridge Armory,” said New York State Assemblymember Jeffrey Dinowitz. “Having lived much of my life in Kingsbridge Heights within blocks of the Armory, I am thrilled that this is finally happening. This redevelopment is not just about revitalizing a landmark—it’s about creating opportunities for our community. With affordable housing, workforce development, and dedicated spaces for recreation and education, this project will provide lasting benefits for Bronx families. I appreciate all included for delivering an economic engine that will generate jobs, empower local youth, and serve as a beacon of progress in Kingsbridge Heights.”
“The redevelopment of the Kingsbridge Armory is a transformative opportunity for our residents in the Bronx,” said New York State Assemblymember Yudelka Tapia. “This project will not only create much-needed affordable housing and community spaces, but will also provide invaluable opportunities for our youth, working families, and small businesses. By integrating cultural, recreational, and workforce development facilities, this plan addresses critical needs in our community while honoring Kingsbridge Armory’s historic significance.”
“This planned redevelopment of the Kingsbridge Armory into a community hub with affordable housing is a big win for all New Yorkers — utilizing the Armory’s abundant space and premier location as a cultural center, sports field, commercial space and much more, while spurring the development of 450 affordable housing units,” said New York State Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn. “The $215 million investment in our city’s future will not only pay massive dividends for the community, but also generate $2.6 billion in economic impact and create over 3,000 construction jobs. I applaud Governor Hochul, Mayor Adams, and EDC President and CEO Kimball for this winning proposal of El Centro Kingsbridge as we keep innovatively building new opportunities for New York City.”
“El Centro Kingsbridge is an urban planning triumph, demonstrating all that can be accomplished when government and the community come together to understand their exact wants and needs,” said New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar. “After months of workshops, surveys, community board meetings, tours, and small group discussions with over 4,000 community residents, NYCEDC crafted a people-powered plan for a five-acre hub of activity in the Northwest Bronx. There will be a mosaic of cultural, commercial, community, and educational spaces with a recreation center, workforce development facility, and 450 units of affordable housing. This will bring unprecedented energy to the neighborhood, generating billions in economic impact, over 3,000 construction jobs, and 360 permanent jobs. I look forward to El Centro Kingsbridge becoming a new beloved institution in the Boogie Down Bronx.”
“I’d like to thank Mayor Adams, Governor Hochul, and EDC President and CEO Kimball for their support of the ‘Together for Kingsbridge’ initiative, and for their generous investment in El Centro Kingsbridge. The future of the Kingsbridge Armory is bright, transforming into an economic engine for the Bronx, and a place for our vibrant, dynamic, and diverse communities to come together to work, play, and live in our beloved borough,” said New York State Assemblymember George Alvarez.
Banner Image: Helping a homeless person. Image Credit – Zac Durant
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