In NYC: Tracking Development On City Owned Land, Pied-A-Terre Tax Info, Pinnacle Tenant Union Documentary, 2K Seats Awarded, Other Updates: Mayor Mamdani

Mayor Mamdani Launches LIFT Tracker to Build Affordable Housing on City-owned Land

Administration is advancing more than 50,000 homes across 100 City sites  

NEW YORK – Today, Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani and Deputy Mayor for Housing and Planning Leila Bozorg released the Land Inventory Fast Track (LIFT) Tracker, an interactive tool that gives New Yorkers their first comprehensive look at the administration’s pipeline of affordable housing on publicly owned land.

The tracker maps more than 100 City-owned sites across the five boroughs that will deliver more than 50,000 new homes, making it easier for New Yorkers to follow the City’s progress in bringing new housing online.

LIFT also highlights opportunities to pair new housing with public amenities, including libraries and other neighborhood services. The Mamdani administration will maintain an aggressive pace of affordable housing development on City-owned land, issuing requests for proposals (RFPs) for five or more new sites each year.

Developing housing on City land is a central part of the Mayor’s Block by Block housing plan, which charts a path to create 200,000 new affordable homes over the next decade while investing in public housing, preserving existing affordable homes, strengthening tenant protections and expanding homeownership opportunities.

“Too many New Yorkers are being priced out of their homes. We have a responsibility to use every tool we have to build the affordable housing our city needs. The LIFT tracker brings transparency to that work and makes clear that City-owned land is not sitting idle—it is becoming homes, libraries and community space across the five boroughs,” said Mayor Mamdani.

“On his first day in office, Mayor Mamdani charged us with exploring how we can best use City-owned land to deliver the housing that New Yorkers need – and we are delivering. We have already taken tangible steps forward on more than a dozen projects on public land that will create more than 5,000 new homes, and we are bringing unprecedented public transparency and engagement into this project with the release of the new LIFT tracker,” said Leila Bozorg, Deputy Mayor for Housing and Planning. “We’ll continue our work to advance housing on public sites across the five boroughs, using every tool at our disposal to speed up these projects and identify creative ways to maximize our resources.”

Since taking office, Mayor Mamdani has moved quickly to accelerate affordable housing production on City-owned land. On his first day in office, the Mayor signed Executive Order 4, creating the LIFT Task Force. Since then, the Mayor has completed the city’s first Expedited Land Use Review Procedure (ELURP) and launched the Neighborhood Builders Fast Track. Together, those initiatives will cut as much as two years from the pre-development timeline for affordable housing on City-owned land.

The administration has also launched the Streamlining Procedures to Expedite Equitable Development (SPEED) reforms to reduce the time it takes to build affordable housing and successfully advocated in Albany for reforms to modernize the state’s environmental review process.

The Mamdani administration has also advanced several major projects on City-owned land. It selected a development team to build “The Aurea,” which will create approximately 131 affordable homes on the site of a former NYPD parking lot in the East Village. Yesterday, HPD announced the selection of a development team to build The Orion, including nearly 1,000 new homes and community amenities, on a long-vacant lot in Hunters Point. The Mamdani administration also released RFPs for the redevelopment of the New Utrecht Library in Brooklyn to build 100% affordable housing and a new library, and to build a mixed-use building on the “B-East” site in East Harlem. The administration also continues to move forward two additional projects co-locating affordable housing with new library facilities at the Grand Concourse and Bloomingdale Libraries.

Earlier this year, the administration announced the first three sites to use the Neighborhood Builders Fast Track in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Jerome Avenue in the Bronx and St. Albans, Queens. Together, those developments will deliver up to 300 new affordable homes, including approximately 100 affordable homeownership opportunities.

The administration has also launched public engagement on plans to transform a City service center in Bedford-Stuyvesant into a mixed-use development with 100% affordable housing and expanded social services, and closed financing to create 229 affordable senior homes for the Sol on Park project on NYCHA’s Morris Houses campus.

These steps are part of the administration’s broader “all-of-the-above” strategy to address New York City’s housing crisis. The recently adopted budget invests a historic $22 billion in affordable housing over five years, including nearly $5 billion in capital funding for new affordable housing over the next two years.

The Mayor’s Block by Block plan sets goals that meet the scale and the urgency of the housing crisis, including building 200,000 new homes and preserving another 200,000 over the next decade. The administration is also investing $5.6 billion in NYCHA over five years, the largest City capital investment in public housing in recent history.

In addition, Mayor Mamdani has strengthened protections for tenants and homeowners by revitalizing the Mayor’s Office to Protect Tenants, introducing the Rental Ripoff reforms – a package of 23 policy changes shaped by tenant input – and launching the City’s first Mayor’s Office of Deed Theft Prevention.

“With LIFT, we’re creating our city’s first-ever comprehensive land inventory tracker for housing, making it easier and faster to develop housing on land owned by all city agencies,” said Housing Preservation & Development Commissioner Dina Levy. “Thank you to Mayor Mamdani and Deputy Mayor Bozorg for prioritizing development on city-owned land, and thank you to our agency partners for joining us in taking action on this crisis.”

“The LIFT Tracker demonstrates that there are tremendous opportunities to create affordable housing on City-owned land, and this Administration is moving swiftly to realize their potential,” said Sideya Sherman, Director of the Department of City Planning. “With new tools like ELURP, we will ensure affordable housing projects on City-owned sites advance faster than ever, so shovels can get in the ground and New Yorkers can get into the homes they urgently need.”

“The LIFT Tracker will provide New Yorkers with a clear view into how the City is leveraging public land to address our unprecedented housing shortage,” said HDC President Eric Enderlin. “HDC looks forward to working with our colleagues across City government to continue expanding the supply of deeply affordable homes in the months and years ahead.”

“New York City’s future depends on our ability to preserve public housing and accelerate the development of new affordable homes,” said NYCHA Chief Executive Officer Lisa Bova-Hiatt. “We applaud the Mamdani administration for making affordable housing a priority and recognizing the opportunity in delivering more affordable homes for New Yorkers on publicly owned land. We look forward to continuing this important work together as we explore new public development projects that can expand affordable housing opportunities for both NYCHA residents and low-income New Yorkers, much like the Sol on Park project.”

“Addressing New York City’s housing crisis requires using every tool available, including our portfolio of City-owned land,” said NYCEDC Interim President & CEO Jeanny Pak. “The LIFT Tracker gives New Yorkers a clearer view of the affordable housing opportunities on publicly owned sites and the progress being made to bring those projects to life. NYCEDC is proud to partner with City agencies to help advance projects that help deliver housing, strengthen neighborhoods, and expand economic opportunity across the five boroughs.”

“Among The New York Public Library’s proudest accomplishments is the redevelopment of our Inwood Library branch, which now has affordable housing on top. We are delighted that this work—upgrading and investing in local libraries while helping the city construct affordable homes—is continuing at our Grand Concourse and Bloomingdale Library branches. These projects are huge wins for our communities and we look forward to more projects like these down the line,” said Anthony W. Marx, President and CEO of The New York Public Library.

Mayor Mamdani, Office of Labor Relations Announce Ratification of Contract with NYC Deputy Sheriffs’ Benevolent Association

Agreement Delivers Compounded Wage Increases, Higher Starting Pay, Improved Uniform Allowances and Expanded Health and Welfare Benefits  

NEW YORK — New York City Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani and Office of Labor Relations (OLR) Commissioner Renee Campion today proudly announced the successful ratification of a new 62-month contract with the New York City Deputy Sheriffs’ Benevolent Association (DSBA). The agreement, which runs from Jan. 1, 2022, through Feb. 28, 2027, provides retroactive wage increases, higher entry-level salaries, enhanced uniform allowances and increased funding for health and welfare benefits.

“Deputy Sheriffs perform essential work every day to keep New Yorkers safe and uphold the laws of our City. They deserve a contract that recognizes that service with fair pay, stronger benefits and the dignity that comes from good-faith collective bargaining. I am grateful to the Office of Labor Relations, the Department of Finance and the Deputy Sheriffs’ Benevolent Association for working together to reach an agreement that supports these public servants while protecting the City’s long-term fiscal stability,” said Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

“This contract honors the hard work and vital public safety role of the New York City Deputy Sheriffs while remaining responsible to the City’s taxpayers. We are thrilled to see members ratify this 62-month agreement that provides enhanced benefits for our employees,” said Mayor’s Office of Labor Relations Commissioner Renee Campion. “I want to thank DSBA President Ingrid Simonivic for her collaboration in negotiating the agreement, as well as Mayor Mamdani for his steadfast support and the Finance Commissioner and Sheriff for their assistance in settling this long-expired contract.”

Contract Highlights:

• Higher Starting Pay: Effective Jan. 1, 2025, the first step of the deputy sheriff salary schedule increases by $4,368 to strengthen recruitment and support career advancement.  
• General Wage Increases (GWIs): Compounded annual raises totaling more than 18% over the life of the agreement: 
  • Jan. 1, 2022: 3.25% 
  • Jan. 1, 2023: 3.25%  
  • Jan. 1, 2024: 3.5%  
  • Jan. 1, 2025: 3.5%  
  • Jan. 1, 2026: 4%  
• Uniform Allowance: Effective Jan. 1, 2026, the annual uniform allowance increases by $475, bringing the total allowance to $1,042. 
• Health and Welfare Benefits: Effective Jan. 1, 2026, welfare fund contributions for active members and retirees increase by $100. 

The agreement reflects the City’s commitment to negotiating fair contracts that support the workforce responsible for delivering critical public services to New Yorkers. This contract’s ratification leaves only a few contracts remaining from the 2021-26 round of collective bargaining.

“The men and women of the Sheriff’s Office work tirelessly every day to protect New Yorkers and uphold the law. Their professionalism and dedication are essential to the important work they perform in service to our city. This contract recognizes those contributions by providing well-earned benefits that support our deputies and reinforce our shared commitment to maintaining a strong, effective Sheriff’s Office. We thank the Office of Labor Relations for its partnership in reaching this agreement and the members of the Deputy Sheriffs’ Association for their collaboration throughout the process. Most importantly, we thank every deputy sheriff for their unwavering commitment in serving the people of New York City,” said Department of Finance Commissioner Richard Lee.

“One of my first priorities as Sheriff was to ensure our deputies receive the recognition they deserve for the vital work they do every day. They put themselves on the front lines to enforce the law, protect our communities, and serve the people of New York City in countless ways that often go unseen. This contract delivers long-overdue benefits that will help improve their quality of life and strengthen our ability to recruit and retain the dedicated professionals who serve our city. I want to thank the Deputy Sheriffs’ Association and the Office of Labor Relations for working together to reach an agreement that recognizes the value of our deputies and invests in the future of this office,” said New York City Sheriff Edwin Raymond.

“For over four years, our Deputy Sheriffs have taken on some of the biggest challenges facing New Yorkers, as we provide critical and essential services, often in very dangerous environments, all while working without a contract. Today, we are incredibly pleased that the new Mayoral administration has not only listened to our concerns but has actively prioritized a fair contract that truly reflects the profound sacrifices and vital services our members deliver every single day,” said Ingrid Simonovic, President, NYC Deputy Sheriffs’ Benevolent Association. “On behalf of the NYC Deputy Sheriff’s Benevolent Association, I want to express my deepest gratitude to Mayor Mamdani, Office of Labor Relations Commissioner Renee Campion, Finance Commissioner Richard Lee, and Sheriff Edwin Raymond. Their tireless efforts, dedication to open dialogue, and unwavering commitment were instrumental in bringing this agreement to the finish line. We look forward to continuing our shared mission of keeping New York City safe.”

“The Department of Finance is committed to supporting the dedicated public servants who serve New Yorkers every day. This agreement recognizes the important work of our deputy sheriffs, and represents the successful collaboration of the Office of Labor Relations,  the Sheriff’s Office and the Deputy Sheriff’s Association. We are pleased to have reached an agreement that provides certainty for our employees and reflects our shared commitment to move forward together,” said Jacqueline James, Department of Finance Deputy Commissioner and Chief Financial Officer.

Mayor Mamdani Appoints Jennifer Jones Austin as CCRB Chair 

Renowned social justice leader will strengthen police accountability and advance the Mamdani administration’s whole-of-government approach to public safety 

NEW YORK – Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani today announced the appointment of Jennifer Jones Austin as Chair of the New York City Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB), the nation’s largest independent police oversight entity. As Chair, Jones Austin will advance the Mamdani administration’s whole-of-government approach to public safety by strengthening accountability, building public trust and ensuring every New Yorker is treated with dignity.  

The appointment marks the first time the CCRB has had a permanent chair since 2020.  

Interim Chair Sherene Crawford, Esq., will continue to serve as a member of the CCRB Board.  

“Jennifer Jones Austin has spent her career standing with New Yorkers who are too often shut out of the halls of power. She understands that public safety and accountability go hand in hand, and that trust must be earned through action. Jennifer will lead the CCRB with integrity, compassion and an unwavering commitment to justice. I am grateful she has answered the call to serve our city,” said Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani. “I also want to thank Sherene Crawford for her steady leadership during this period of transition. Because of her service, the Board continued its essential work without interruption.”  

“I am honored to serve as Chair of the New York City Civilian Complaint Review Board. Trust between government and the communities we serve lay at the heart of public safety.  It is our responsibility as public servants to deepen trust by promoting transparency and integrity through our every action,” said Chair Jennifer Jones Austin. “As Chair, I will work to advance CCRB’s critical mission of accountability and look forward to the work ahead.” 

“Jennifer Jones Austin has dedicated her career to advancing fairness, accountability, and opportunity for New Yorkers, and I am proud to join Mayor Mamdani in appointing her as Chair of the Civilian Complaint Review Board. She brings decades of respected public service, deep experience building consensus, and an unwavering commitment to strengthening trust between government and the communities it serves. I look forward to working with Jennifer to support the CCRB’s critical mission of ensuring independent oversight, promoting transparency and helping build a stronger relationship between the NYPD and the people of New York City,” said Speaker Julie Menin. 

“Jennifer Jones Austin has devoted her career to advancing civil rights, expanding opportunity and ensuring that government works for every New Yorker. There is no one better suited to lead the Civilian Complaint Review Board at this critical moment. I know she will bring her faith and her unfaltering sense of justice to this role, delivering for those whose needs are too often ignored.  I congratulate Jennifer on this well-deserved appointment, and I look forward to working with her on behalf of all New Yorkers,” said Attorney General Letitia James. 

“Jennifer Jones Austin has been a trusted leader and unwavering advocate for justice for many years. As Vice Chair of the National Action Network, she has stood on the front lines of the fight for police accountability while helping us build constructive relationships with those in law enforcement who are committed to reform. Jennifer understands that meaningful change requires both accountability and partnership — working outside the system to demand justice while engaging inside the system to achieve lasting reform. She brings the experience, credibility, and judgment this moment demands, and I believe she will make an outstanding Chair of the Civilian Complaint Review Board,” said Reverend Al Sharpton. 

“Jennifer is a fearless and principled leader with an exceptional ability for bringing constituencies of different backgrounds and points of view together. During our time serving on the New York City Racial Justice Commission, she led the development of three charter amendment proposals through a robust public engagement process. The overwhelming voter approval of those amendments is a testament to her commitment to equity, justice, and ensuring every voice is heard. Jennifer will serve the CCRB and the residents of New York City well,” said Henry Garrido, Executive Director of District Council 37 AFSCME. 

“Jennifer Jones Austin is an outstanding leader who understands why trust in the criminal justice system is essential for public safety. She is a passionate advocate for equal justice under the law and brings a wealth of advocacy and government experience that will serve the needs of all New Yorkers. I look forward to partnering to deliver safety and fairness,” said District Attorney Alvin Bragg. 

“Jennifer Jones Austin has devoted her career to advancing justice, fairness and opportunity for New Yorkers, bringing compassion, sound judgment and a deep commitment justice to her work. These qualities are essential to the leadership of the Civilian Complaint Review Board, whose credibility and independence are central to ensuring accountability and strengthening trust between law enforcement and our communities. I am confident that Jennifer will be an outstanding Chair and will lead the CCRB’s essential work with integrity and fairness,” said District Attorney Eric Gonzalez. 

“Jennifer Jones Austin has spent her career fighting to make our city more just, by making it more accountable. Her decades of leadership on criminal justice reform, racial justice, and public service have earned the respect of communities across New York City. I congratulate Jennifer on her appointment as Chair of the Civilian Complaint Review Board and know she will lead with integrity, fairness, and a steadfast commitment to strengthening public trust. At a time when accountability and transparency are more important than ever, New Yorkers will be well served by her thoughtful, experienced leadership,” said Council Member Yusef Salaam. 

“Police accountability in this city only works if the CCRB is empowered to do its job, and that starts with strong leadership at the top,” said Council Member Chi Ossé. “Jennifer Jones Austin has spent decades fighting for New Yorkers, our systems too often fail, and she brings both the qualifications and moral clarity this moment demands. I am proud that Mayor Mamdani and his administration are prioritizing this appointment, and I look forward to working with the incoming Chair to ensure the CCRB has the independence, the resources, and the standing it needs to do its job.” 

“The Legal Aid Society congratulates Jennifer Jones Austin on her appointment as Chair of the Civilian Complaint Review Board. Jennifer’s decades of experience advancing civil rights and social justice, coupled with her leadership across government on accountability and public safety issues, make her exceptionally well qualified to lead the CCRB at this critical moment,” said Twyla Carter, Attorney-in-Chief and Chief Executive Officer of The Legal Aid Society. “The CCRB is essential to ensuring that allegations of police misconduct are investigated independently and that New Yorkers have meaningful civilian oversight of the NYPD. A strong, independent, and well-resourced watchdog with the authority to carry out its mandate effectively is critical to protecting the rights of New Yorkers. We look forward to working with Chair Jones Austin to ensure the CCRB has the tools it needs to fulfill that mission.” 

“The CCRB deserves a strong permanent chair like Jennifer Jones Austin who will fight for the agency and is committed to accountability and respect for civil rights. Jennifer Jones Austin has a long record of pushing for justice, including her advocacy for fairer policing and criminal system reforms like alternatives to harsh criminal penalties for young people. We look forward to continued advocacy before the CCRB under her leadership to advance justice for New Yorkers whose rights have been violated by the NYPD,” said Donna Lieberman, NYCLU Executive Director. 

“New York Communities for Change enthusiastically welcomes the appointment of Jennifer Jones Austin to the Civilian Complaint Review Board. Born and raised in Brooklyn, in a neighborhood where many of our members live today, she brings both a personal understanding of our communities and a distinguished record of public service. Her legal expertise, combined with her leadership as CEO of the Federation of Protestant Welfare Agencies and as Senior Vice President of United Way of New York City, has been defined by a steadfast commitment to justice, opportunity, and fighting poverty. We are confident she will serve on the CCRB with integrity, transparency, and a strong commitment to protecting the rights of all New Yorkers while helping restore public trust in this vital oversight body. We congratulate Jennifer Jones Austin on her appointment and look forward to her leadership,” said James Iniss, New York Communities for Change.  

“I want to thank Sherene Crawford for her productive and effective tenure as Interim Chair, and I am glad she will continue to serve on the Board. Ms. Jones-Austin’s experience in the criminal justice arena, including serving as Deputy Chief of the Civil Rights Bureau for the New York State Attorney General, Chair of the New York City Board of Correction, and leader of the NYPD Reform and Reinvention Collaborative, make her an ideal chair for the CCRB,” said Jonathan Darche, CCRB Executive Director. 

“The CCRB will be well served by Jennifer Jones Austin’s leadership as its Chair. I am confident she’ll continue and build upon the vital work this Agency does on behalf of all New Yorkers, and I look forward to working with her in my capacity as a Board Member,” said CCRB Board Member Sherene Crawford.   

About Jennifer Jones Austin:   

Jennifer Jones Austin is a fourth-generation faith and social justice leader who has dedicated her career to advancing equity and expanding opportunity for New Yorkers.  

As CEO and Executive Director of Federation of Protestant Welfare Agencies (FPWA), an anti-poverty policy and advocacy organization representing 170 member agencies and faith partners, Jones Austin has led successful efforts to strengthen the social safety net and advance policies that empower disenfranchised and marginalized communities. Her work has focused on the intersection of race, poverty, law and public policy. 

Jones Austin previously chaired the New York City Racial Justice Commission, the first municipal racial justice commission of its kind in the nation and served as Chair of the New York City Board of Correction, where she oversaw the rulemaking process that ended solitary confinement in New York City jails. 

She currently serves as Vice Chair of the National Action Network board and has held leadership roles on numerous public and nonprofit commissions, including the New York State 400 Years of African American History Commission, Fordham University’s Feerick Center for Social Justice Advisory Board, Harvard University’s Center for Law, Brain and Behavior Advisory Board and the COVID-19 “Roll Up Your Sleeves” Task Force. She was also a Visiting Scholar at New York University’s Silver School of Social Work and Scholar in Residence at Alliance University’s Center for Racial Reconciliation (CRR).  

Jones Austin served as co-chair of Mayor Bill de Blasio’s transition team and advised the City’s universal prekindergarten expansion and NYPD Reform and Reinvention Collaborative. 

She is the author of Consider it Pure Joy and editor of God in the Ghetto: A Prophetic World Revisited. 

Jones Austin earned a juris doctor from Fordham University School of Law, a Master of Science in management and policy from New York University’s Robert F. Wagner School of Public Service and a Bachelor of Science from Rutgers University. 

Mayor Mamdani and Commissioner Lee Extend Deadline for Pied-à–Terre Tax Exemption Application  

Homeowners now have until September 18, 2026 to apply for an exemption — nearly one month longer than the original deadline

NEW YORK – Today, Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani and Department of Finance Commissioner Richard Lee announced a four-week extension for homeowners to submit exemption applications for the City’s non-primary residence property surcharge, giving eligible property owners until Sept. 18, 2026 to apply.

The extended deadline applies to everyone who received a “You may be subject to…” notice from the Department of Finance. Homeowners who believe they may qualify for an exemption are encouraged to submit an application as soon as possible by visiting nyc.gov/npsurcharge.

The extension gives homeowners additional time to establish that the property is their primary residence or demonstrate they are not subject to the surcharge. It also provides more time for homeowners to receive assistance from the Department of Finance and have their questions answered before submitting an application.

“The pied-à-terre tax is an important new tool to help our city collect the revenue we need for safer streets, cleaner parks, and other critical investments across the five boroughs,” said Mayor Mamdani. “We are announcing the extension of the exemption application deadline to ensure that New Yorkers who received the ‘You may be subject to…’ letters have the time and information they need.”

“Anyone who received a letter and believes they may qualify for an exemption should take advantage of this additional time,” said Commissioner Lee. “Our team is ready to answer questions, help people navigate the application process and ensure every applicant has the information they need.”

Homeowners seeking assistance with the exemption process are encouraged to call 311 or contact the Department of Finance through its website here. Additional information about the surcharge and exemption process are available at nyc.gov/npsurcharge.

Expanding Outreach Across the Five Boroughs:

To ensure homeowners have the information they need, the City has expanded its outreach efforts across all five boroughs, including:

• Working directly with co-op and condominium boards, property managers and building representatives to share information with residents.
• Conducting outreach at senior centers and other community gathering spaces. 
• Reaching out directly to homeowners who received notices, where contact information is available, to answer questions and provide guidance on the exemption and appeals process.
• Partnering with elected officials, community leaders and constituent services staff to distribute accurate information and connect homeowners with available resources. 
• Sending additional communications directly to homeowners who may be affected by the surcharge.

These efforts reflect the administration’s commitment to ensuring every potentially affected homeowner has clear information, multiple ways to receive assistance and a fair opportunity to determine whether they qualify for an exemption.

Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Lisa F. Garcia announce a dramatic expansion of the Bureau of Coastal Resilience to better protect communities against rising sea levels and the growing threat of stronger, more severe coastal storms worsened by climate change. Market Slip & South Street, Manhattan. Friday, July 24, 2026. Credit: Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office.

Mayor Mamdani, The Doe Fund Break Ground on New Supportive and Affordable Housing in Hunts Point 

The Casanova Residence will create 96 supportive and affordable homes with on-site services for formerly homeless New Yorkers 

NEW YORK – Today, Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani was joined by The Doe Fund and local leaders to break ground on the Casanova Residence, a new supportive and affordable housing development in Hunts Point, the Bronx. When complete, the residence will provide 96 supportive and affordable homes with on-site services.  

Mayor Mamdani and Governor Hochul Extend 2-K Offers to More Than 2,000 Children, Announce More Than 5,700 Applications Submitted

Nearly three applications submitted for every available 2-K seat in the City’s inaugural program   

Free 2-K seats to save families an average of $26,000/year  

82% of families receiving one of their top three choices, while more than half of receiving offers with their first-choice  

Demand from families across all five boroughs underscores the urgency of expanding access to universal child care   

NEW YORK – Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani and Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that more than 2,000 children are receiving offers to join New York City’s inaugural 2-K class. The Mayor and Governor also announced that following the City’s first-ever 2-K application season, more than 5,700 families applied for just over 2,000 seats – clear evidence of the extraordinary demand for free, universal child care across the five boroughs. Each free 2-K seat will save New York City families an average of $26,000 a year.  

Among families receiving initial offers, 82% are matched with one of their top three choices, and more than half are receiving their first-choice program. 99% of all offers are to a program listed on a family’s application. As Mayor Mamdani announced earlier this year, the majority of seats will be full-day and full-year.  

“The overwhelming demand for 2-K shows what families across the city have known for years: New Yorkers need free, universal child care, and they need it now,” said Mayor Mamdani. “More than 5,700 families applied because affordable child care allows New York families to stay in the city they love. From our 2K for 2-K race in Fort Tryon Park to building sandcastles with families in the Rockaways, our administration travelled across the city to ensure families had the information they needed to apply. That’s how government should work, and this is only the beginning. Together with Governor Hochul, we’ll keep expanding 2-K until every family that wants a seat can get one.”  

“Thousands of families across NYC are applying for childcare for their two-year-olds, making clear that this is the kind of opportunity that families have been waiting generations for,” Governor Hochul said. “Starting a family while working full-time was nearly impossible for me, which is why I’ve made it my mission to make sure no parent has to choose between their career and their children. I’m proud to partner with Mayor Mamdani in delivering these first 2-K seats, and I’ll continue putting New York on a path to universal childcare, supporting families across the state.”  

“When our kids have access to the high-quality care and early learning we will see in 2-K classrooms across the city, we are giving them the strongest possible foundation for everything that comes next,” said Emmy Liss, Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office of Child Care and Early Childhood Education. “Today’s offers represent more than seats in a classroom – they represent peace of mind for parents, opportunity for children, and another step toward making universal child care a reality for every New Yorker.”  

“We are giving our youngest New Yorkers the high-quality early learning experiences that set the foundation for a lifetime of success in school and beyond,” said Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels. “The overwhelming response from families shows just how urgently this program is needed, and we’re excited to welcome New York’s cutest and their families into our schools this fall. We remain committed to working alongside the Mayor and Governor to grow 2-K until every family who wants a seat has one.” 

On the eighth day of his administration, Mayor Mamdani announced the creation of more than 2,000 free 2-K seats — the first program of its kind in New York City history — in partnership with Gov. Hochul. The inaugural seats are available at child care centers and family child care homes across five initial school districts. The overwhelming response from families will help guide the administration’s continued expansion of 2-K, including adding seats within the first five districts in the years ahead. By the end of Mayor Mamdani’s first term, every family in New York City that wants a 2-K seat will have access to one.  

Since launching 2-K earlier this year, Mayor Mamdani has led an all-of-government campaign to ensure families across the city knew about the opportunity and had the resources they needed to apply. In May, the Mayor announced the first batch of providers that would offer 2-K seats. Days later, the Mayor and Governor joined students from Sheldon R. Weaver Child Care Center on the Rockaway Beach Boardwalk to officially launch the application period.   

As the application deadline approached, Mayor Mamdani partnered with New York Road Runners to host a 2K for 2-K race in Fort Tryon Park, encouraging families to submit applications before the deadline. Mayor Mamdani also partnered with Bronx-born rapper Cardi B and Washington Heights native Lin-Manuel Miranda to launch a 2-K jingle contest. Nearly 13,000 New Yorkers voted to select Allegra Levy’s song, which was recorded in English and Spanish.  

Families who did not receive an initial offer will be contacted directly with information about waitlist options as additional seats become available in the coming weeks. Families may continue to join 2-K waitlists, regardless of whether they applied in June.   

Later this year, the City will announce details for the 2027 expansion of 2-K, with plans to serve about 12,000 children, including families on Staten Island.   

“The enthusiasm we’ve seen from families speaks for itself. New Yorkers are asking for a stronger early childhood system that supports children from the very beginning and gives parents greater stability,” said Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez, Chair of the NYC Council’s Subcommittee on Early Childhood Education. “Today’s offers are an encouraging start, and I look forward to continuing the work of growing this program in the years ahead.”  

“Expanding 2K will give thousands more New Yorkers the ability to return to work or pursue careers without the obstacle of inaccessible or cost-prohibitive childcare,” said Council Member and Education Committee Chair Eric Dinowitz. “Besides giving our 2-year-olds a headstart on their education, this program will lessen the burden on our working families, which is transformative for our children and our city. Thank you to Governor Hochul and Mayor Mamdani for making this important investment into the future of our families and our children.”

“I thank Mayor Mamdani and Governor Hochul for making this important investment in New York City’s children and families. One of the best investments the City can make is in our youngest New Yorkers. High-quality early education gives kids a strong start, helps parents stay in the workforce, and supports working families. Building on the success of Pre-K and 3-K will strengthen New York City for years to come,” said Council Member Gale A. Brewer.

“The response from families sends a powerful message: New Yorkers are ready for truly universal childcare,” said Council Member Amanda Farías. “More than 5,700 families chose to begin their children’s educational journey at age two, and that is a resounding endorsement of early learning as a foundation for lifelong success. This overwhelming demand makes one thing clear, working families need affordable, high-quality childcare that allows parents to stay in the workforce while giving children the strongest possible start. I am proud to stand with Mayor Mamdani and Governor Hochul in expanding universal childcare and making that vision a reality. I will continue fighting in the Council to grow access, strengthen our early childhood workforce and provider network, and secure the investments needed so every family — regardless of their ZIP code — can access these opportunities.”

“Before a child can find their voice in the world, we must decide what kind of world will receive them. I commend Mayor Mamdani and Governor Hochul for coming together around a responsibility greater than any one office or level of government: giving our children the care and opportunity they deserve. Universal child care is more than a public program; it is a declaration that care belongs within the architecture of justice. When government stands beside families from the very beginning, it does more than meet a need — it widens the horizon of what every child may one day become,” said State Senator Robert Jackson.  

“New York’s progress towards universal childcare is creating hope right here in the Bronx. The 2,000 2-K offer letters mark an exciting step for New York families dreading the high cost of childcare. I want to thank Governor Hochul, Mayor Mamdani, and their teams for prioritizing this issue and for their commitment to building an affordable, accessible childcare system for every New York family,” said State Senator Gustavo Rivera.  

“New Yorkers need stronger support systems that make it possible to raise families and build their futures right here in our city. These new 2-K offers demonstrate that supporting families is a commitment backed by meaningful action. Through this expansion, New York is providing much-needed financial relief for working families while giving more children the opportunity to begin their educational journey in New York City,” said Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz.  

“For thousands of families across our city, 2-K will be a major game-changer — ensuring our residents do not have to choose between their careers and caring for their children,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “As the cost of living continues to skyrocket and too many residents in our city struggle to afford basic necessities, this initiative will help ease a financial burden that affects too many of our working-class New Yorkers. I am grateful to Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Zohran Mamdani for prioritizing this important issue, and I look forward to welcoming New York City`s inaugural 2-K class to a system that gives every young learner the strong start they deserve.” 

Mayor Mamdani Releases Short Documentary, “The Union of Pinnacle Tenants: A Short History of NYC Housing”

Film documents how tenant organizing secured millions in repairs, debt relief and a stronger future for nearly 100 buildings     

NEW YORK – Today, Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani released a new short documentary, The Union of Pinnacle Tenants: A Short History of NYC Housing, chronicling how tenants across 93 buildings formerly owned by Pinnacle Group organized to defend their homes, build collective power and win repairs for their homes.

On his first day in office, Mayor Mamdani visited a Pinnacle building and directed the New York City Law Department to intervene in the company’s bankruptcy proceedings in support of the Union of Pinnacle Tenants (UPT).

Through interviews with tenants and City leaders, along with footage from pivotal moments in the campaign, the film tells the story of an organizing effort that secured a commitment from the buildings’ new owners to invest $30 million in repairs and forgive tenants’ rent arrears. It also follows the ongoing fight for fair lease renewals, high-quality repairs and other protections that tenants continue to bargain for together.

As the Mamdani administration continues to support UPT and tenant organizing across the five boroughs, this film highlights what becomes possible when neighbors come together to fight for one another. The Mayor’s Office to Protect Tenants (MOPT) will partner with UPT to host screenings for tenants across the city.

“The Union of Pinnacle Tenants has shown what becomes possible when neighbors organize. Across nearly 100 buildings, tenants came together and won important victories that made real, material impacts in New Yorkers’ lives. I’m proud to stand with them as they continue the fight for affordable, dignified housing across the city,” said Mayor Mamdani. “This film tells the story of that organizing, but I hope it also reminds New York City tenants that the power to change their living conditions begins with one another. The most protected tenant is an organized tenant.”

The documentary is part of the Mamdani administration’s broader effort to build tenant power across New York City. Through its comprehensive housing plan, Block by Block, and the Rental Ripoff Report, the administration is advancing policies to strengthen tenant organizing, including legally recognizing tenant unions.

The administration also issued a “Right to Organize” letter, signed by Mayor Mamdani, reaffirming tenants’ right to knock on their neighbors’ doors, form tenant associations and hold meetings without landlord interference.

Most recently, the Mayor’s Office of Mass Engagement and MOPT launched the “Talk to Tenants” campaign, sending staff and volunteers into neighborhoods facing the most acute housing challenges to ensure tenants know their rights, including their right to organize a tenant union. 

Mayor Mamdani Issues Cease-and-Desist Orders to Online Retailers Selling Dangerous, Illegal Motorized Devices to New Yorkers

Forty-two retailers put on notice for illegally selling high-speed devices that account for more than half of all rider fatalities involving e-bikes and stand-up scooters  

NEW YORK – Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani today announced legal action against online retailers illegally selling dangerous motorized devices — including high-speed e-bikes, stand-up e-scooters and other products that cannot legally be operated on New York City streets.  

The City has issued cease-and-desist orders to 42 online retailers demanding they immediately stop selling these illegal devices to customers in New York City’s 175 ZIP codes. The products being marketed and shipped into the city exceed legal limits for speed, weight or other safety requirements and cannot lawfully be sold or operated on City streets. Just last week, one such illegal device was involved in a tragic crash that claimed the life of a 17-year-old New Yorker.  

“Every family deserves to know that when their loved ones leave home, they will make it back safely. That promise becomes harder to keep when companies profit from knowingly selling illegal, high-speed vehicles that have no place in our city. Since 2017, more than 45 people have been killed while riding illegal e-bikes, including the young New Yorker whose life was cut short last week, and more than 14 people have died while riding illegal stand-up scooters, including the horrific incident at the Queensboro Bridge earlier this year. These are not unavoidable tragedies, they are preventable losses,” said Mayor Mamdani. “Today, we’re putting online retailers on notice: if you continue selling dangerous, illegal devices into New York City, you will be held accountable. We will use every tool available to make our streets safer for everyone who walks, bikes, drives or rides.”  

“Two of the biggest factors of the severity of a traffic crash are the speed and weight of a vehicle, which is why the proliferation of faster, heavier illegal e-mobility devices is such an alarming trend on our streets. While legal e-mobility remains a great option to get around the city, faster illegal e-bikes and scooters are dangerous for everyone who shares our streets, including riders,” said NYC DOT Commissioner Mike Flynn. “These online retailers have allowed New Yorkers to purchase products that are illegal to sell or operate on city streets — and that must come to an end.”  

Under New York City law, it is illegal to sell or operate on public streets:   

• Motorized stand-up scooters weighing more than 100 pounds or capable of traveling faster than 20 mph.  

• E-bikes equipped with electric motors larger than 750 watts or capable of speeds exceeding 25 mph.  

• Seated mopeds that do not have and display a valid Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).  

Dangerous illegal e-bikes and stand-up e-scooters have proliferated in recent years largely through online sales. These illegal devices now account for more than half of all rider fatalities involving e-bikes and stand-up scooters.   

Between 2017 and 2025, 45 rider fatalities involved illegal e-bikes capable of traveling faster than 25 mph, accounting for 54% of all e-bike rider deaths during that period. During the same period, 14 rider fatalities involved stand-up scooters capable of traveling faster than 20 mph, representing 52% of all stand-up scooter deaths.    

Retailers that continue selling prohibited devices after receiving a cease-and-desist order may face a civil penalty of up to $2,000 for each illegal sale. Illegal devices found operating on New York City streets may also be impounded.    

The Mamdani administration continues to take aggressive action to improve street safety, with the first half of 2026 recording historic lows in pedestrian fatalities.  

NYC DOT continues to redesign streets using proven safety measures that reduce crashes and save lives. Recent projects include improvements along Tremont and Bailey avenues in the Bronx, McGuinness Boulevard and the area surrounding Wingate Park in Brooklyn, 31st Avenue and 31st Street in Queens and Sixth and Ninth avenues in Manhattan.   

“Every New Yorker should be able to walk down the sidewalk and cross the street without fear,” said New York Attorney General Letitia James. “Those who sell illegal e-motos to New Yorkers are fueling a tragic rise in injuries and fatal accidents on our streets. My office has sent an advisory to businesses and consumers throughout our state about these vehicles, and I thank Mayor Mamdani and Commissioner Flynn for taking action to hold these retailers accountable.”

“Delivery workers rely on e-bikes and mopeds to earn a living in one of the most exploitative — and dangerous — jobs in New York City. With little support from the app companies they work for, many are forced to navigate a confusing marketplace where illegal, unsafe vehicles are often the most accessible and affordable option. Improving street safety for all New Yorkers means ensuring those vehicles are never sold in the first place. Worker’s Justice Project applauds the City’s efforts to address this problem at its source and hold retailers accountable for selling illegal vehicles that put far too many workers and New Yorkers at risk. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the Department of Transportation to strengthen worker safety through education and access to safe, legal transportation options and resources, alongside smart enforcement and accountability for those who profit from selling illegal vehicles,” said Ligia Guallpa, Executive Director of Worker’s Justice Project and Co-Founder of Los Deliveristas Unidos.  

Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani visits the 100th tenant association to join the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD)’s Partners in Preservation tenant organizing program and celebrates the work of tenant organizing in Brooklyn on Tuesday, July 28, 2026. Credit: Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office.