NYC Mayor: Small Business Support, Hero First Responder, Summer In NYC, Birth-2 Early Childhood Investment, Block By Block Housing, More Updates

Mayor Mamdani, NYC Tourism, NYNJ Host Committee Announce Programs to Support Small Businesses During 2026 World Cup

‘Five Borough Winners Special’ will offer $26 meals and drinks at hundreds of participating bars, restaurants and food establishments throughout the tournament 

Mayor Mamdani also touted ‘Welcome World’ program to encourage people to visit small businesses across all five boroughs for exclusive merch, fan experiences and World Cup match tickets 

Initiatives latest part of Mamdani administration’s efforts to help people explore the city’s small businesses, neighborhoods and communities during World Cup celebration

NEW YORK – Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani, the FIFA World Cup 2026™ New York New Jersey (NYNJ) Host Committee and NYC Tourism + Conventions today announced new initiatives to support New York City small businesses and encourage New Yorkers and visitors alike to explore neighborhoods across all five boroughs during the World Cup.   

The City’s “Five Borough Winners Special” program will offer $26 drink and meal specials at participating bars, restaurants and food establishments across the city, giving New Yorkers and visitors reliably priced dining options throughout the tournament. Nearly 600 businesses across all five boroughs have already signed up to participate in the program, and Mayor Mamdani encouraged any food establishment interested in joining to enroll at nyctourism.com/wc26toolkit.  

Mayor Mamdani also highlighted the NYNJ Host Committee’s “Welcome World Rewards” program, which will allow people to check in at participating small businesses, earn points and become eligible for prizes, including exclusive merchandise, fan experiences and the opportunity to attend the World Cup Final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium.  

Businesses participating in the Five Borough Winners Special will also be featured on the Welcome World Rewards platform, allowing customers to earn points while supporting participating businesses.   

Together with the City’s recently announced ‘NYC Neighborhood Passport,’ events calendar, digital map and borough-wide fan programming, the initiatives are part of the City’s broader effort to bring visitors and longtime New Yorkers into neighborhoods across the five boroughs during the tournament.  

“In New York City, you do not need an expensive ticket to be part of the World Cup. Our small businesses have some of the best seats in the house,” said Mayor Mamdani. “The Five Borough Winners Special will help working New Yorkers and visitors find a reliably priced place to eat and drink while driving more business into neighborhoods across our city. Whether you are watching the match from a restaurant in Jackson Heights, a bar in the Bronx or a cafe in Central Brooklyn, the World Cup should be something every New Yorker can take part in.”   

“As New York City prepares to welcome visitors from around the globe for the World Cup, we want fans to explore and experience as much of our great city as possible,” said Julie Coker, President and CEO of New York City Tourism + Conventions. “From special promotions and discounts to giveaways and beyond, there are countless ways for business owners to get involved in the festivities and show off their World Cup spirit.”  

“The World Cup is an opportunity to bring real economic impact directly into neighborhoods across the region,” said Alex Lasry, CEO of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ NYNJ Host Committee. “What’s exciting about these programs is that fans can experience them together — grabbing a $26 meal or drink special through the Five Borough Winner Special while also earning points and unlocking rewards through Welcome World. It creates a fun, accessible way for residents and visitors alike to explore local businesses, discover new neighborhoods, and be part of the energy of the tournament.”   

Five Borough Winners Special Program  

The Five Borough Winners Special — New York City’s official citywide dining program for the World Cup — will offer consistently priced food and drink options at participating restaurants, bars and food establishments throughout the tournament.  

Businesses may participate in the program in three ways.  

• $26 Offer: Participating establishments may offer any food or beverage special for $26, including prix-fixe menus, beverage-and-bite pairings, drink specials or other promotions. The deadline to register is July 1, 2026, and the program will run throughout the tournament from June 11 through July 19.  

• Limited-Edition Cup Giveaway: Participating establishments may offer a limited-edition commemorative cup with the purchase of a food or beverage item. Featuring a different design for each borough, the 24-ounce reusable cups are dishwasher safe and intended for cold beverages only. Diners will be encouraged to collect all five cups and share their experiences on social media. Businesses that register before June 11, 2026, will receive two free cases of cups — 96 cups total — before  July 4 while supplies last.  

• Both $26 Offer & Cup Giveaway: Participating establishments may combine both the $26 special and the cup giveaway.   

• Welcome World Rewards: Participating establishments may also be featured on the Welcome World Rewards digital platform to increase visibility, attract new customers and connect with fans throughout the tournament.  

Business interested in participating in the “Five Borough Winner Special” can register here. Uber will serve as the presenting sponsor. More information about businesses participation opportunities during the World Cup is available through NYC Tourism’s business tool kit here.  

Welcome World Rewards Program  

Launching in the coming weeks, the FIFA World Cup NYNJ Host Committee’s “Welcome World Rewards” program will encourage fans to explore neighborhoods and support small businesses ahead of and during the tournament.   

Fans will be able to check in at participating businesses, earn points and unlock games, experiences and rewards. Fans who accumulate enough points will become eligible for exclusive merchandise, access to official NYNJ Host Committee fan experiences and the opportunity to attend the World Cup Final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium.  

The “Welcome World Rewards” program and “Five Borough Winners Special” are part of the City’s broader efforts to help New Yorkers and visitors explore all five boroughs during the World Cup.   

Mayor Mamdani Releases Executive Order 13 Report of Audit Findings and Recommendations  

Agencies will strengthen protections for immigrant New Yorkers and update protocols governing interactions with federal immigration agents 

NEW YORK – Today, Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani released Block by Block: The Housing Plan for a New Era, a sweeping blueprint to tackle New York City’s deepening housing crisis with the urgency and scale the moment demands.

Spanning the full breadth of housing policy, from new construction to tenant protections to public housing, homeownership and worker protections, the plan lays out a comprehensive strategy to make New York City more affordable for working people.

“At a moment when working people are being pushed out of the city they built, New York cannot afford half-measures or delays,” said Mayor Mamdani. “This plan meets the housing crisis with the urgency it demands. We are setting the most ambitious housing production and preservation targets in the city’s modern history – and backing them up with investments to match – while also protecting tenants and homeowners, investing in public housing and ensuring the workers building that housing have good-paying, safe jobs. We must fight for both the tenants of today and the tenants of tomorrow. Block by Block shows how New York City can do exactly that.”

“Block by Block meets the housing crisis with the ambition and urgency that New Yorkers deserve. This plan will deliver a fairer, more affordable city for everyone – whether you are a renter seeking repairs, a growing family seeking a new apartment, or a would-be homeowner,” said Leila Bozorg, Deputy Mayor for Housing and Planning. “From building 200,000 new affordable homes and preserving 200,000 more, overhauling how we enforce housing codes, investing in public housing, and making sure the workers building our city’s future earn a fair wage, this administration is using every tool at its disposal to meet the moment.”

Block by Block details how the City will build 200,000 new affordable homes and preserve another 200,000 affordable homes over the next decade, backed by a historic $22 billion capital investment in housing over the next five years. This investment is paired with an ambitious land use agenda to boost housing production across the five boroughs and innovative new financing tools to build and preserve affordable housing more quickly and efficiently.

The Mamdani administration will also double the size of the Open Door program to expand affordable homeownership opportunities and launch a new program, “Our Home,” to create permanently affordable co-ops for working class New Yorkers.

The plan includes a major overhaul of the City’s responds to code and heat complaints, including allowing tenants to schedule some HPD inspections and coordinating “roof-to-cellar” inspection days at buildings with organized tenants. The City will also launch an interagency planning effort in the Bronx to proactively address persistent issues around housing quality, public health and economic inequality in the borough.

Block by Block also lays out the administration’s vision for NYCHA, including the largest City capital investment in NYCHA in recent history. The plan expands resident participation in decision-making through stronger participation in Resident Associations, “NYCHA in Your Neighborhood” events and deeper tenant involvement following conversion to the Permanent Affordability Commitment Together (PACT) program.

The administration will also pursue a renewed role for NYCHA as a public developer, using new financing and development tools to bring in revenue, improve campuses and build new housing across the city.

The plan also centers the workers building New York’s future. The Mamdani administration will implement the Construction Justice Act to establish a $40 per hour minimum wage and benefit standard for construction workers on City-financed projects and explore project labor agreements (PLAs) for targeted affordable housing developments. The administration will also establish the City’s first Mayor’s Committee on Construction Safety.

In addition, Block by Block includes policies to help move New Yorkers out of shelter and into permanent housing, improve government efficiency and public excellence, support for operating affordable housing, advance innovation in construction and expand opportunities for homeowners to add accessory dwelling units and legalize basement apartments safely.

“New York doesn’t work without housing that’s affordable,” said Housing Commissioner Dina Levy. “Block by Block is an ambitious vision for a more affordable city — balancing multiple priorities including production, preservation, and targeted enforcement — so New Yorkers can access the housing they deserve.”

“Block by Block is a bold roadmap for meeting the urgency of our housing crisis and building a fairer, more affordable, more livable New York City. At the Department of City Planning, we will help deliver on this plan by using new tools to advance affordable housing, working with communities to develop ambitious neighborhood plans, and updating zoning to unlock transit-accessible housing across the city. I’m proud to work with Mayor Mamdani, government partners, and communities across the boroughs to create a city where all New Yorkers can stay, grow, and thrive,” said Sideya Sherman, Director of the Department of City Planning.

“Mayor Mamdani’s housing plan places renewed emphasis on the vital role of NYCHA in our city and the residents we serve,” said NYCHA Chief Executive Officer Lisa Bova-Hiatt. “The administration’s plan, which represents one of the largest city investments in NYCHA in recent history, will directly support our shared commitment to strengthening resident engagement, improving service delivery, and accelerating long-needed repairs and improvements across our portfolio. We are grateful to the administration for its dedication to improving the lives of NYCHA residents and for advancing bold solutions that protect and expand housing affordability for New Yorkers.”

“A stronger, more affordable New York requires a housing strategy that matches the scale and urgency of the challenges facing our city today,” said Housing Development Corporation (HDC) President Eric Enderlin. “Block by Block lays out an ambitious plan to expand housing opportunity, strengthen public housing, and make our city more affordable for New Yorkers. HDC looks forward to working with our partners to deliver the housing and community investments envisioned in the Mayor’s housing plan.”

“The Mayor’s Block by Block Housing Plan is a dynamic new approach to building and preserving more housing faster while proving that ambitious growth and strong safety standards can go hand in hand,” said Buildings Commissioner Ahmed Tigani. “Importantly, this plan calls for a targeted code reform effort aimed at lowering construction costs and reducing development timelines, which will make a real difference in getting shovels in the ground on more residential projects citywide. We are grateful to be led by a Mayor and Deputy Mayor whose unwavering commitment to protecting tenants, construction workers, and the public is foundational to the plan to build the housing our city needs. DOB is excited to move forward and get to work!”

“The Mamdani Administration’s historic housing plan will tackle the urgency of the housing crisis from multiple angles, all while unlocking and preserving hundreds of thousands of units of housing across New York City,” said NYCEDC Interim President & CEO Jeanny Pak. “From utilizing our assets to launching new programs, NYCEDC is tapping into every tool in our toolbox to deliver affordable housing across the five boroughs and make the city a more affordable place to live.”

“As part of Block by Block, Mayor Mamdani’s housing plan, LPC will support housing creation in historic districts with a range of tools to encourage the creation of ADUs and help property owners unlock opportunities for individual landmarks  — work that will help advance the administration’s bold vision to deliver both additional housing and a more affordable city,” said Landmarks Preservation Commission Chair Lisa Kersavage.

“Reducing homelessness requires more than temporary shelter — it requires permanent homes. This plan charts the course for creating housing at the speed and scale that meets the urgency of the moment,” said Department of Social Services Commissioner Erin Dalton. “By dedicating unprecedented numbers of housing units for New Yorkers experiencing homelessness, cutting red tape, and accelerating placements into those units, this plan will expand and strengthen access to deeply affordable housing, reduce supportive housing vacancies, and help New Yorkers move out of shelter more quickly while keeping at-risk New Yorkers from losing their homes.”

“New Yorkers are facing a housing crisis that is pushing families out of their neighborhoods, straining working people, and making it harder for too many to see a future in the city they love,” said Comptroller Mark Levine. “Setting a goal of 200,000 new affordable homes and 200,000 preserved homes over the next decade, while making major investments in NYCHA, affordable homeownership, homelessness prevention, and faster, more cost-effective housing production, reflects the kind of comprehensive approach our city needs. I am committed to using the resources and powers of my office to address our housing crisis, and I applaud Mayor Mamdani’s commitment to tackling this crisis block by block.”

“In the midst of our city’s unprecedented housing crisis, we must mobilize an unprecedented response in order put — and keep — roofs over the heads of as many New Yorkers as possible. This plan represents an incredible and intentional investment in exactly that,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “Queens residents in every corner of our borough deserve affordable rent, opportunities at homeownership and to live with dignity in their NYCHA apartment. This administration not only recognizes that, but has put forth a proposal to achieve it. I couldn’t be more excited to work with the Mamdani Administration in delivering on the promise of the Block by Block plan and delivering for the countless New Yorkers in need of high-quality affordable housing.”

“New York City’s housing crisis requires a crisis-level response, and that’s precisely what Mayor Mamdani’s Block by Block delivers. From the Affordable & Efficient Code Reform Task Force which aims to drive down construction costs to a massive $5.6 billion commitment to improve conditions at NYCHA developments, Block by Block is set to harnesses all levers of government to ease pressure on the housing market and lower costs for New Yorkers,” said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso.

“Since becoming Chair of the Housing and Buildings Committee, I have called for New York to confront the housing crisis in its full complexity — not only as a crisis of affordability, but as one of housing quality, safety, and survival. Mayor Mamdani’s first housing plan reflects that reality, embracing the all-of-the-above approach this moment demands: building new housing, preserving existing homes, protecting tenants — including in NYCHA — and confronting distressed buildings where neglect is putting lives at risk,” said Council Member Pierina Sanchez.

“New Yorkers are facing a deep housing affordability and displacement crisis, and we need bold action that matches the urgency of this moment,” said Council Member Shahana Hanif. “I’m encouraged by the Mayor’s commitment to expanding affordable housing, investing in NYCHA, strengthening tenant protections, and preventing homelessness. As this plan moves forward, the City must ensure real accountability for negligent landlords and a stronger commitment to accessible, affordable housing for New Yorkers with disabilities. I look forward to partnering with the administration to deliver housing that keeps working-class New Yorkers in the communities they call home.”

“With this new ambitious housing plan, Mayor Mamdani and Deputy Mayor Bozorg set forth a concrete path to preserving affordable housing, protecting tenants, supporting homeowners, and building new housing for all New Yorkers. As chair of the Committee on General Welfare, I am particularly proud to partner with this administration on a targeted approach to preventing homelessness and creating affordable housing for our lowest income neighbors,” said Council Member Crystal Hudson.

“Every New Yorker deserves a safe, stable, and affordable place to call home. For far too many families, rising rents and a lack of housing options have made it harder to stay in the communities they helped build. Mayor Mamdani’s Block by Block housing plan recognizes the scale of the crisis and meets it with an ambitious vision rooted in affordability, preservation, and opportunity,” said Council Member Rita Joseph. “The commitment to creating and preserving 400,000 housing units over the next decade, making historic investments in NYCHA, strengthening housing code enforcement, and creating stronger pathways out of homelessness reflects an understanding that housing policy must be comprehensive and people-centered. I am particularly encouraged by the focus on expanding homeownership opportunities and finding ways to build affordable housing more efficiently without compromising safety. I look forward to partnering with the Mamdani administration and my colleagues in the Council to help deliver solutions that keep our city affordable and equitable for generations to come.”

“Congratulations to the Mamdani Administration on producing a housing roadmap that includes building and preserving affordable and market housing, and includes NYCHA, rental and homeownership,” said Council Member Gale A. Brewer. “In an effort to keep tenants in their homes, the plan focuses on better code enforcement and inspections, heat complaints, and transfer to alternate management if needed. To build faster, taking time off the process and leasing up will be a game changer. I look forward to implementing this plan.”

“Addressing New York’s housing crisis requires a comprehensive, multi-pronged approach that works to subsidize and incentivize new housing construction, preserve the habitability and safety of our existing housing, and ensure tenants and homeowners have the protections and resources that they need to thrive. I am excited that Mayor Mamdani is putting forth this very ambitious plan, and I look forward to continuing to work with the Mayor and his administration on the wide range of policies and tools we need to ensure that every New Yorker has stable access to a sustainable, livable, and affordable home,” said Senator Brian Kavanagh, Chair of the Senate Housing Committee.

“At a time when rising costs, aging buildings, and growing service needs continue to strain affordable housing providers, the administration’s focus on speeding up approvals, expanding preservation tools, and making significant capital investments is a meaningful step toward addressing our housing crisis. Sustained investment in production and preservation is essential, and this plan addresses that by balancing public resources and private investment to help deliver and protect units across the five boroughs. We look forward to continuing to work with the mayor and our housing sector partners to deliver and maintain high-quality, affordable housing that meets the needs of all New Yorkers,” said Carlina Rivera, President and CEO, New York State Association for Affordable Housing (NYSAFAH).

“New York City’s housing crisis is one of the most urgent threats to our city. Meeting this moment will require a true whole-of-society effort, bringing government, labor, nonprofits, and the private sector to the table to work together. ABNY commends the ambition and scale of Mayor Mamdani’s housing plan, which would create and preserve 400,000 homes, strengthen NYCHA, and generate good-paying jobs,” said Emma Pfohman, CEO of the Association for a Better New York. “As supporters of the 2025 Charter reforms and SEQRA reforms to expand affordable housing, we will continue to convene and organize partners across sectors to keep New York livable, affordable, and competitive for generations to come.”

“New York’s housing crisis demands urgency, ambition, and real action. The Mayor’s housing plan meets the moment by putting housing production where it belongs: at the top of the city’s agenda. The New York Building Congress and our members are ready to work with City Hall, the Council, and communities to move quickly, build boldly, and deliver the homes New Yorkers need across all five boroughs,” said Carlo A. Scissura, Esq. President & CEO, New York Building Congress.

“This comprehensive housing plan—the largest announced by any Mayor in history—is an incredible step in our fight for affordability.  Our union is proud to have fought for our members to have the best wages and benefits in the country, but it’s not enough. As so many hardworking New Yorkers struggle to stay afloat with rising costs of living, this focus on creating new units and preserving public housing, combined with homeownership opportunities, will be a crucial lifeline for our city’s middle class. We are excited to stand with Mayor Mamdani as he continues to deliver on his promise to make our city a better place to live and work,” said Rich Maroko, President of the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council (HTC).

“ANHD applauds Mayor Mamdani’s housing plan for putting tenants’ rights and affordable housing preservation front and center — where they belong. At a time when too many housing debates treat tenants like an afterthought and preservation like a side note, this plan recognizes that protecting tenants, stabilizing the affordable housing we already have, strengthening code enforcement, and investing in nonprofit and public housing are essential if working-class New Yorkers are going to be able to remain in this city. We are encouraged to see this administration treating housing not simply as a development issue, but as the foundation for stability, dignity, and opportunity,” said Barika X Williams, Executive Director, Association for Neighborhood & Housing Development (ANHD).

“We are thrilled to support Mayor Mamdani’s Block By Block plan and congratulate the Mayor and his affordable housing team for putting forward a bold vision to confront New York City’s housing crisis at the scale it demands,” said Sabrina Lippman, CEO of Habitat for Humanity New York City and Westchester County. “The commitment to build 200,000 affordable homes and preserve 200,000 more reflects the kind of urgency, ambition, and long-term thinking this moment requires. We are especially encouraged to see affordable homeownership prioritized through the expansion of Open Door funding and the launch of the Our Home program to help convert rental housing into ownership opportunities. These investments recognize that homeownership is one of the most powerful tools for building long-term stability, generational wealth, and stronger communities. Habitat NYC and Westchester looks forward to partnering with the City to expand permanently affordable homeownership opportunities and at a time when working-class New Yorkers need it the most.”

“Mayor Mamdani’s housing plan is what a progressive all-of-the-above housing plan looks like. It pairs ambitious strategies to build more homes of all kinds with protections for tenants, investments in housing preservation, addressing public housing needs, and expanding homeownership opportunities. Open New York is particularly excited about the administration’s plans to advance citywide transit-oriented development, its commitment to use the full powers of the pro-housing ballot measures overwhelmingly passed by voters in November, and its first neighborhood planning initiatives announced in Brooklyn and the Bronx,” said Annemarie Gray, Executive Director, Open New York. “It is very promising to see the Mamdani administration fully embrace an all-of-the-above approach that centers on building more homes, especially in the neighborhoods that have not done enough to be part of the solution, as a critical part of a progressive affordability agenda. Open New York looks forward to working with the administration to turn these commitments into the homes New Yorkers are counting on.”

“To truly tackle our affordable housing crisis requires bold action, a willingness to try new approaches and resources to match the moment,” said Kim Darga, Vice President and Market Leader, Enterprise Community Partners. “Too many New Yorkers are homeless, and too many others struggle to keep up with housing and other household expenses. We are not just facing a shortage of affordable homes, but also worsening conditions in our affordable stock. This plan tackles these challenges, and more. It invests in new and existing tools, commits to tackling bureaucratic hurdles and streamlining processes, and increases staffing at key agencies.  As always, we at Enterprise look forward to working with this administration to turn ideas into action.”

“The new housing plan makes us enormously excited for the future of New York City,” said Moses Gates, Vice President of Housing and Neighborhood Planning, Regional Plan Association (RPA). “Its investments in new homeownership opportunities, public housing and transit-oriented development are priorities we have long championed, and its unprecedented commitment to constructing 200,000 new affordable homes reflects the urgency of meeting our housing shortage. A more affordable New York is possible, and this plan is a major step in getting there.”

“Delighted to see Mayor Mamdani and his team adopt a full-stack approach to housing supply. The zoning rules that expressly limit the number of homes in NYC are key drivers of housing underproduction. Adding meaningful land use reform to the mayor’s recent SPEED permitting reforms is what we need to build our way out of New York’s housing shortage and unlock inclusive economic growth,” said Alex Armlovich, Senior Fellow, Niskanen Center.

“Rent-burdened New Yorkers living in poverty are spending more than 70% of their income on rent each month, leaving little left over for food, childcare, transportation, and other essentials that keep households stable. By pairing an ambitious commitment to build more affordable housing with investments to improve housing quality and preserve our existing affordable and public housing stock, today’s plan recognizes the scale of action needed to make the city more affordable for New Yorkers and their families,” said Richard R. Buery, Jr., Chief Executive Officer, Robin Hood.

“By incorporating living wage and labor standards in his bold Housing Plan, Mayor Mamdani demonstrates a deep understanding of the multifaceted affordability dilemma that’s plaguing NYC. Affordable housing must be accompanied by good jobs that pay a living wage. Jobs that not only allow you to pay the rent, but to turn on the lights so that you can see the food on your table,” said Mason Tenders District Council Business Manager Dave Bolger.

“Creating opportunities for more New Yorkers to live close to transit is a great step forward for livability, safety, affordability, and sustainability. We applaud the Mamdani’s embrace of transit-oriented growth and look forward to helping to make these ambitions become a reality,” said Ben Furnas, Executive Director, Transportation Alternatives. 

Ahead of Summer Break, Mayor Mamdani Launches Interactive Website Connecting Young New Yorkers to Free and Low-Cost Summer Programs  

With dozens of activities available for children and teens, the website includes everything from free painting lessons to youth basketball leagues   

Initiative one of several efforts to keep young New Yorkers safe this summer and follows release of video with gun violence survivors 

NEW YORK – Today, Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani launched “Summer in N.Y.C.”, a new interactive website designed to connect young New Yorkers with free and low-cost summer programming in their neighborhoods and across the city. New Yorkers can access the website at NYC.gov/Summer.  

The website allows users to search by age, ZIP code, interests and travel distance, helping families find activities ranging from painting classes to basketball leagues, soccer programs, and other extracurricular opportunities. It also includes information about free summer meals and free citywide FIFA World Cup watch parties and celebrations.   

The launch is part of the Mamdani administration’s broader, whole-of-government approach to keep young New Yorkers safe and engaged during the summer months.   

When school lets out and temperatures rise, access to structured activities and community spaces become even more important. Last week, Mayor Mamdani released a video conversation with three members of True 2 Life, a Staten Island-based organization within the City’s Crisis Management System, which uses evidence-based intervention and peer mentorship to prevent violence and address its root causes. The conversation highlighted the stories of New Yorkers impacted by gun –violence who are now working to protect the next generation. The video can be found here.   

This summer, the Office of Neighborhood Safety (ONS), in partnership with DYCD and community-based organizations across the city, is implementing a coordinated Summer Safety Plan focused on preventing youth violence and expanding opportunities for young people. Through the City’s Crisis Management System, credible messengers and outreach teams will increase engagement in neighborhoods most impacted by violence, with enhanced mediation efforts, extended evening programming, youth listening events, and rapid-response activations during high-risk periods and large gatherings. The plan also expands access to safe spaces, mentorship, recreation, and workforce opportunities to ensure young New Yorkers are connected to positive supports throughout the summer months.  

“Too often, we tell young people what not to do – but don’t tell them what they should do. This website is about connecting kids and teens to programs they’ll actually be excited about – whether that’s basketball, photography, music or art — and making it easy for families to find opportunities close to home. With summer fast approaching, we are using every tool available to keep young New Yorkers safe, listened to rather than lectured at, and surrounded by community,” said Mayor Zohran Mamdani.   

“Summer is a time for making the core memories that shape us. It’s a time for exploration, growth and fun for every young person in our City. Delivering that means providing safe, meaningful, and free opportunities in all corners of the five boroughs and making them accessible. We created Summer in NYC to put young people just a click away from favorite and new hobbies, experiences, and connections along with critical life skills such as conflict management and emotional regulation. More importantly, we’re going to be listening to young people themselves throughout the summer, centering them in the decisions we make about how to support them and their development,” said Deputy Mayor for Community Safety Renita Francois.    

“Keeping our kids safe, healthy, and engaged is a priority for the Mamdani Administration this summer,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Dr. Helen Arteaga. “Today’s launch presents youth and teens across New York City with an easy-to-use tool that will help identify youth-centered programs that promote fitness, spur creativity, and even offer spaces to explore self-care and prioritize their mental health. This innovative resource is just one of several steps we’re taking to ensure the safety and well-being of New York’s youngest—and making sure they have a fun summer in the process.” 

Mayor Mamdani Announces Start of Construction to Complete McGuinness Boulevard Redesign to Improve Safety for All  

Project will deliver parking-protected bike lanes along the full length of McGuinness Boulevard, from Meeker Avenue to the Pulaski Bridge    

Comprehensive redesign will improve safety for everyone by shortening crossing distances, reducing reckless driving and slowing turning drivers

NEW YORK – Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani and New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) Commissioner Mike Flynn today announced the start of construction to complete the redesign of McGuinness Boulevard. The project will deliver parking-protected bike lanes along the entire corridor, from Meeker Avenue to the Pulaski Bridge, while making the street safer for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers alike.  

Mayor Mamdani joined community leaders and safe street advocates on Jan. 3, just days after his inauguration, to announce that the City would move forward with the long-delayed redesign. Today, Commissioner Flynn returned to the community near the foot of the Pulaski Bridge to break ground on the project. NYC DOT expects to complete construction by early fall.  

“Days into our administration, we made clear that this new era for New York City would be anchored in the well-being of working people, not the whims of the wealthy and well-connected,” said Mayor Mamdani. “Now that spring is here and the ground has thawed, NYC DOT can get to work delivering safe streets for all New Yorkers. As construction begins, Greenpoint is finally getting the safer McGuinness Boulevard its residents have long fought for.”  

“Every New Yorker should feel safe on New York City streets, and after tireless advocacy from the Greenpoint community, we will finally be delivering a McGuinness Boulevard that helps stitch the neighborhood together, rather than dividing it in half with long, high-traffic crossings,” said NYC DOT Commissioner Mike Flynn. “This was the administration’s first street safety announcement because we wanted to signal that are ushing in a new era of local government that works for its people — instead of making backroom deals to prevent the installation life-saving street safety upgrades.”  

The redesigned section of the southern portion of McGuinness Boulevard featuring one parking lane, one travel lane and a curbside bike lane in each direction. As part of NYC DOT’s upcoming work, it will extend this design to the northern section of the corridor. Credit: NYC DOT  

McGuinness Boulevard is a critical cycling connection between Brooklyn and Queens and serves more than 4,000 daily riders during the summer months. NYC DOT will install parking-protected bike lanes along the entirety of the corridor to improve safety and reduce deadly speeding.   

The redesign will extend the existing parking-protected bike lanes between Meeker Avenue and Calyer Street northbound to the Pulaski Bridge. Once complete, McGuinness Boulevard will feature one travel lane in each direction, one parking-protected bike lane in each direction and one curbside parking and loading lane in each direction.   

The redesign will also improve safety benefits for pedestrians and drivers by shortening crossing distances, slowing turning vehicles and reducing reckless driving behavior. Similar street redesigns across the New York City have reduced traffic deaths and serious injuries by 30%.    

“I am pleased to finally see the last phase of making McGuinness Boulevard safe become a reality for bike commuters traveling between Brooklyn and Queens and for pedestrians crossing the thoroughfare,” said Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez. “We must keep building on this progress to ensure everyone in the neighborhood has the safe streets they deserve.”  

“Today’s groundbreaking represents a promise delivered,” said Assemblymember Emily Gallagher. “For decades, McGuinness has been the site of death and serious injury caused by reckless drivers. Frustration over the inaction of our elected officials is part of what led to my run for office. Our local community here in Greenpoint has fought to make McGuinness safe for decades, and this victory belongs to them. It’s a reminder that when we organize, we win and a government that works for the people is possible.”  

“I am so excited to see work begin on the comprehensive redesign of McGuinness Boulevard,” said State Senator Kristen Gonzalez. “For years advocates have been fighting to make this corridor safer and prevent more traffic violence. Protected bike lanes, shortened pedestrian crossings and other traffic calming measures make our streets work better for pedestrians, cyclists, drivers and families. These changes will save lives. I am grateful to Mayor Zohran Mamdani and DOT Commissioner Mike Flynn for following through on the community’s long-standing call for a safer, more connected McGuinness Boulevard. Today’s victory would not be possible without the tireless work of community members who fought to make their neighborhood safer. Congratulations to the Make McGuinness Safe coalition, I am proud to work alongside you for a safer North Brooklyn.”  

“This is a huge win for North Brooklyn and for the advocates who’ve spent years pushing for a safer McGuinness Boulevard. This kind of infrastructure makes our streets safer for everyone, whether they’re walking, biking, or driving,” said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. “I’m grateful to DOT for moving this project forward and investing in one of our borough’s busiest corridors, and I encourage the agency to continue listening to community advocates whose vision for McGuinness includes not just safer streets, but more welcoming and people-centered public spaces.” 

“McGuinness has dangerously divided Greenpoint for generations, but thanks to the tremendous organizing of our community, McGuinness will finally be safe for all of us,” said Council Member Lincoln Restler. “This redesign has been many years in the making and I’m relieved work is beginning today to complete this urgent street safety project.”  

“This has been a long time coming for the communities that live, work and travel along McGuinness every day,” said Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez. “For years, people in Greenpoint and Williamsburg raised concerns about safety on this corridor and were too often met with hesitation instead of action. Today is an important step toward making these streets safer and showing that local voices are finally being heard at City Hall.”  

“We did it! The Greenpoint community has been fighting for this moment for decades. Finally, instead of speeding vehicles and dangerous cut-through traffic on McGuinness, we will see slower speeds, shorter crossing distances and protected bike lanes,” said Bronwyn Breitner, Coordinator for Make McGuinness Safe. “Finally, we are seeing government agencies work to heal our divided community and create a more livable North Brooklyn. Mayor Mamdani has delivered on his promise to Make McGuinness Safe. We hope this comprehensive redesign of McGuinness is the first of many transformative street safety projects across New York City under this administration.”  

“Today, we will finally make McGuinness safe,” said Fabiola Mendieta-Cuapio and Kate Brockwehl, co-chairs of Families for Safe Streets New York City. “As a mother who lost her son to a traffic crash and a pedestrian who was seriously injured by a driver, we were heartbroken to learn about beloved teacher Matthew Jensen’s death on McGuinness Boulevard. This mile-long corridor has terrorized Greenpoint since it was created decades ago, and it’s past time the entirety of the street actually served the parents and families crossing it every day. We are incredibly grateful to the Mamdani administration for moving forward with this critical project and other street safety initiatives across the five boroughs, and we’ll keep organizing until every New Yorker makes it home safe at the end of the day.”  

“Today, Greenpoint’s years-long demand for safety on McGuinness Boulevard is becoming a reality,” said Ben Furnas, Executive Director of Transportation Alternatives. “After beloved teacher Matthew Jensen was killed crossing this street, families and neighbors stood up for change, against the indifference and corruption of the previous administration, and demanded a redesign that would save lives. Thanks to the tireless advocacy of the Make McGuinness Safe coalition — and the Mamdani administration fulfilling its Day 3 commitment — this street will be safe for everyone and will be a model for the transformation of dangerous roads across the city.”  

“RPA is pleased to see NYC DOT break ground on the McGuinness Boulevard redesign that will deliver safer streets and a more sustainable transportation network,” said Kate Slevin, Executive Vice President, Regional Plan Association. “This segment is one of the most important north-south connections in Brooklyn and into Queens for pedestrians, cyclists, transit riders and drivers alike. Completing the corridor redesign will improve safety, calm dangerous speeding and create a more connected street for the thousands of New Yorkers who use it every day.”

“McGuinness Boulevard has long been one of Brooklyn’s most dangerous streets, and we are thrilled to see NYC DOT move forward with the original safety plan for the corridor. This redesign is about much more than bike lanes; it’s about reducing speeding, shortening crossing distances for pedestrians, calming dangerous turns, and rethinking curb space so streets work better and more safely for everyone,” said Jackson Chabot, Director of Advocacy and Organizing, Open Plans. “For too long, politics got in the way of proven safety improvements. Returning to the original plan means finally delivering the kind of street design that we know saves lives, reduces reckless driving, and makes neighborhoods safer and more connected. We hope this is just the beginning, and that DOT builds on this momentum by prioritizing a Low Traffic Neighborhood pilot in the surrounding area, especially calmer, safer streets around PS 110, so families and children can get to school without navigating dangerous cut-through traffic.”

Mayor Mamdani and NYC Public Schools Announce Continued Investment in Birth-to-2 Programming Through 2026–27 School Year   

Continued funding will support more than 120 infant and toddler seats across 10 participating community-based early childhood programs during the 2026–27 school year  

Mayor Mamdani Announces Commission on Government Efficiency to Make Government Work Better for New Yorkers   

Commission will develop proposals to modernize City government, improve service delivery, and strengthen accountability to New Yorkers

Robust public process will culminate in proposals on the November ballot 

Mayor Mamdani Highlights Housing Production Agenda in Block by Block as Support for Plan Grows

Plan charts path to build 200,000 new affordable homes over the next decade 

Public Advocate Williams, four Borough Presidents, labor leaders and housing groups back the plan