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Statement from Borough President Diaz
RE: President Trump’s Shameful Silence on Puerto Rico

“Over the past week, President Trump has found the time to opine on the patriotism of the NFL and NASCAR, and to bring us to the brink of war with North Korea. At the same time, 3.5 million American citizens are facing a humanitarian crisis in Puerto Rico. They do not have power, they lack basic necessities, and they are pleading for our assistance.

“Yet despite their dire circumstances they have not heard a word from the president, not even a Tweet. Millions of Americans are facing a desperate moment, and President Trump cannot even pretend to care. This is a dereliction of duty,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

The Bronx to Host Donation Drive for Puerto Rico & Mexico

On Saturday, September 30, 2017, the New York Hispanic Clergy Organization will host a donation drive to help the victims of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico and the earthquake in Mexico City.

The drive will take place on Saturday, September 30, 2017, at the corner of Southern Boulevard and Aldus Street. The event will begin at 12 p.m. Donations including clothing, non-perishable food and other goods will be accepted by the New York Hispanic Clergy Organization at the event.

"It is in times like this when we all must come together, to help those in great need," said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. "Both Mexico and Puerto Rico have been hit hard by natural disasters, and we will do everything we can to help our friends and family in both regions, as they face immense adversity. The road to recovery can be quite difficult, which is why I am urging everyone to support the New York Hispanic Clergy Organization’s drive to collect donations for those who need them."

For more information on how to participate in the event, contact 973-881-1130.

Read the complete press release.

Governor Cuomo Launches Statewide Empire State Relief & Recovery Effort for Puerto Rico

Launches Statewide Donation Drive for Nonperishable Goods at Strategic Locations - Including Citi Field in Partnership with New York Mets

Governor Cuomo and the Partnership for New York City Launch the Puerto Rico Relief & Rebuilding Fund at New York Community Trust to Coordinate Donations from Business Community for Local Charitable Organizations in Puerto Rico

Three-Pronged Effort with GNYHA, HANYS, NYSNA and 1199SEIU Provides Medical Supplies, Personnel and Technical Assistance to Puerto Rican Hospitals 

Jennifer Lopez, Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez, Assemblyman Marcos Crespo and Cesar Perales Serving as Co-Chairs of the Effort

Follows Governor Cuomo's Relief Mission - Video Here and Photos Here 

Visit ny.gov/PuertoRico to Learn More and Take Action

Following his visit to Puerto Rico to deliver emergency supplies and see firsthand the widespread damage and devastation from Hurricane Maria, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today launched the Empire State Relief and Recovery Effort for Puerto Rico. The effort brings together a wide range of civic, business and industry partners to provide needed services, goods and funds to help the people of Puerto Rico recover and rebuild, and provides opportunities for New Yorkers to contribute to the relief efforts. Attorney General Eric Schneiderman's Charities Bureau will monitor the fund to ensure the organization follows all necessary rules and regulations governing the solicitation of funds. JetBlue has committed to $1 million as an in-kind contribution to transport the customers and cargo for relief efforts. Governor Cuomo is the honorary chair of the effort, with Jennifer Lopez, Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez, Assemblyman Marcos Crespo and Cesar Perales serving as co-chairs.

"After seeing the breathtaking devastation and unfathomable need for help firsthand in Puerto Rico, I am launching this effort to put the full weight of New York's resources behind the Puerto Rican people," Governor Cuomo said. "New York has a long and proud history of standing up to help those in need, and with millions of Puerto Ricans suffering, we must do everything we can to help our Puerto Rican brothers and sisters recover. I thank our partners who have already donated and encourage all New Yorkers to lend a hand as we work together to help this community rebuild." 

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. said, “New York has a deep and unbreakable bond with the people of Puerto Rico, and they are an integral part of the New York community. That is why we are stepping up to support Puerto Rico as it recovers from Hurricane Maria. Under Governor Cuomo’s leadership, New York’s contributions will directly improve the lives of those affected by Hurricane Maria and accelerate the island's recovery. I urge all New Yorkers to do what they can to assist in these recovery efforts.”

Read the complete press release.

Mayor de Blasio Encourages New Yorkers to Donate Critically-Needed Items at 18 Locations for Hurricane Relief

NEW YORK—Mayor de Blasio today announced 18 firehouses and EMS stations across the five boroughs where New Yorkers can donate critically-needed items for Hurricane Maria relief.

“New York City stands in solidarity with those affected by Hurricane Maria, and many of us are looking for ways to help. We’re encouraging New Yorkers to donate these critically-needed items at a local drop-off site,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio.

“Donations of necessities – such as baby food, feminine hygiene products, and first aid supplies – are of utmost importance after any natural disaster, and can help relieve the burden on residents and families who are struggling after the impact of the recent storm,” said Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito. “I strongly encourage New Yorkers to donate at their nearest participating firehouse or EMS station, or volunteer in whichever capacity possible. New Yorkers have always helped out our neighbors in times of need, and in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, we stand ready to provide assistance to Puerto Rico.”

The City encourages donation of items that are critically needed for recovery. These items will be delivered to families directly affected by the storm. Below is a list of items New York City is collecting to send to those affected by Hurricane Maria:

·         Diapers
·         Baby food
·         Batteries
·         First Aid Supplies
·         Feminine Hygiene Products

Please note the City is only collecting the items listed above. All donated items must be non-perishable, not second-hand, nor contain any liquids of any kind. Open or unsealed donations of food or hygiene supplies will not be accepted. Wet wipes will also not be accepted. Any other items will be kindly returned.

There are 18 drop off locations accepting donations across all five boroughs. Donations will be accepted during the hours of 7 am through 9 pm. Please be aware that FDNY members at these locations may not be present during drop-off hours if they are responding to an emergency.

Bronx
·                 EMS Station 26: 1264 Boston Road, Bronx NY 10456 (Morrisania)
·                 EMS Station 55: 3134 Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10451 (Melrose)
·                 Engine 64/ Ladder 47: 1214 Castle Hill Avenue, Bronx, NY 10462 (Castle Hill)
·                 Engine 83/ Ladder 29: 618 E. 138th Street, Bronx, NY 10454 (Mott Haven/South Bronx)

"Puerto Rico needs our immediate assistance. I urge everyone to do what they can to support relief efforts, and I am grateful to Mayor de Blasio for opening up these drop-off sites to make it easier for New Yorkers to give close to home," said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Read the complete press release.

Governor Cuomo Departs from New York to Puerto Rico to Provide Emergency Goods and Services at Official Request of Governor Ricardo Rosselló

Governor Cuomo Making Available More Than 34,000 Bottles of Water, 9,600 Ready to Eat Meals, 3,000 Canned Goods, 500 Flashlights, 1,400 Cots, 1,400 Pillows, 1,400 Blankets and 10 Generators
 
Governor Cuomo Traveling on Donated JetBlue Aircraft to Bring Supplies on First Flight to Depart for San Juan Since Hurricane Maria
 
NYPA Engineers, Translators, Supervisors and DEC Drones and Drone Pilots Sent to Assist with Reconstruction of Power Grid
 
60 New York National Guard, Four Black Hawk Helicopters and 50 State Police on Standby 

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and a delegation of administration officials departed this morning for Puerto Rico to deliver emergency supplies, help the community repair its devastated power structure, and assist in relief and recovery efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. The trip follows Governor Ricardo Rosselló's official governor to governor request through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact for mutual aid. In response to the request, Governor Cuomo immediately made available more than 34,000 bottles of water, 9,600 ready to eat meals, 3,000 canned goods, 500 flashlights, 1,400 cots, 1,400 blankets, 1,400 pillows and 10 10kw generators. Additionally, Governor Cuomo has announced that 60 members of the New York Army National Guard, four Black Hawk helicopters and 50 State Police are on standby. This flight, on aircraft donated by JetBlue, is the first flight to depart for San Juan since Hurricane Maria.
 
"Puerto Rico is part of the New York family, and we stand with our Puerto Rican brothers and sisters as they begin to rebuild after the devastation of Hurricane Maria," Governor Cuomo said. "We have assembled top emergency response experts to support Puerto Rico and help repair its devastated power structure, and we are providing supplies and any additional assistance we can to support the island as they recover from this unprecedented natural disaster." 
 
Governor Ricardo Rosselló said, "In the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, I have made an official Governor to Governor request that Governor Cuomo and the State of New York provide essential goods, services, and expertise to help us assess the devastation and develop a plan for recovery. Puerto Rico has endured an horrific ordeal and we are lucky to have a friend like Governor Cuomo and New York State who we share a close bond and deep history with. I want to thank the Governor for accepting my invitation to travel to Puerto Rico, and the people of New York for always standing by our side in difficult times and we appreciate the support as we begin the rebuilding process."
 
Bronx Borough President Rubén Díaz Jr. said, "With months and potentially years of recovery and clean up ahead, New York is sending a clear message to our brothers and sisters in Puerto Rico - we are stepping up and we will be by your side during the long road ahead. I commend Governor Cuomo for recognizing the dire need for resources and personnel on the island, and for having the determination to see these efforts through."

Read the complete press release.

City Announces Bronx Point, a Waterfront Development That Will Create Open Space and Hundreds of Units of Affordable Housing in the South Bronx

Bronx Point will also include a home for the Universal Hip-Hop Museum, a new waterfront esplanade, a state-of-the-art multiplex theater, a food hall and incubator and more 

Bronx, NY - New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), in partnership with the Departments of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) and Parks and Recreation (DPR), today announced a plan to transform a long-vacant site located along the Harlem River waterfront into Bronx Point, a dynamic mixed-use development that will feature high-quality public open spaces, hundreds of permanently affordable housing units, a home for the Universal Hip-Hop Museum, a state-of-the-art multiplex theater, education space, and a neighborhood food and beverage hall and incubator.
 
The development of Bronx Point will activate one of the largest remaining City-owned parcels of land in the Bronx. Sitting at a gateway location in the Lower Concourse neighborhood, the site is a stone’s throw away from the transit-rich 149th Street corridor where Hostos College, the Bronx General Post Office, and Lincoln Hospital are located. The site is adjacent to Mill Pond Park and the 145th Street Bridge that connects to Upper Manhattan.
 
"Bronx Point is a tremendous step forward for our borough. Not only will this project create much-needed affordable housing units, it will activate underutilized space, open up more waterfront to public access, create new public spaces and retail amenities for community use and, finally, bring the Universal Hip-Hop Museum to its rightful location in the birthplace of hip-hop, The Bronx. Hip-hop was born in The Bronx, and the inclusion of the Universal Hip-Hop Museum as part of this project will help showcase our role in the creation of that worldwide cultural movement for generations to come. I congratulate NYCEDC, HPD, the Parks Department, L+M Development Partners and Type A Projects on their tremendous collaboration. This innovative mixed-use development is a model for future projects across the nation, and I am proud to support it," said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Read the complete press release.

Governor Cuomo Announces Bronx Civic Center as $10 Million New York City Region Winner of Second-Round Downtown Revitalization Initiative

State to Collaborate With New York City Regional Economic Development Council to Revitalize the Bronx Civic Center Downtown Neighborhood

Part of Governor's Comprehensive Approach to Transform Communities Into Vibrant Neighborhoods and Boost Local Economies

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the Bronx Civic Center neighborhood in the South Bronx will receive $10 million in funding and investments as the New York City winner of the second round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative. As in the first round of the DRI, one downtown from each of the state's 10 regional economic development regions will be selected as that region's DRI winner and will benefit from $10 million in state investment to revitalize the area, marking another overall state goal to target $100 million in funding and investments to help communities identify catalytic downtown projects to boost the local economy. 

"Downtown revitalization is critical to strengthening our communities, driving business growth, and attracting and retaining the next generation of leaders in New York," Governor Cuomo said. "These investments in South Bronx will establish a solid foundation for continued growth throughout the region and provide stronger, more viable communities for generations to come."

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. said, "The Downtown Revitalization Initiative is designed to transform traditional downtown neighborhoods into even more vibrant communities. This program will help shape the future of the South Bronx, and make the communities surrounding this institution and others even greater places to live, work and raise families. With this funding, the South Bronx will have the opportunity to reach its full potential using community-based efforts to strengthen our neighborhoods. My office greatly appreciates Governor Cuomo's continued commitment to The Bronx, and I look forward to working with local stakeholders to implement this DRI."

Read the complete press release.

Elected Officials to Amazon: The Bronx is a Prime Location for HQ2

Elected officials from every corner of The Bronx have signed a letter to Jeff Bezos, Amazon’s Founder & CEO, urging the company to consider The Bronx as the site of its next headquarters.

“The Bronx offers many unique advantages when compared to other municipalities. We have seen a record investment in our infrastructure, and we are leading the way in job creation. Companies from all over the world are taking a fresh look at The Bronx, and our existing companies are expanding their presence in our borough. With smart planning and collaboration, Amazon could become a key piece of our ongoing renaissance,” states the letter.

Earlier this month, Amazon announced that it would seek a site for its second American headquarters, HQ2, and issued a nationwide request for proposals. Since then, Bronx elected officials and business leaders have been working to identify potential locations that could host Amazon’s second headquarters and are developing a package of materials discussing the significant benefits of doing business in The Bronx for the company’s review.

“Our borough already has a working relationship with Amazon, and we would welcome them to The Bronx with open arms. We have numerous locations that could meet their needs and a skilled workforce to go with them,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “The Bronx has seen incredible progress on job creation and economic development in recent years. Amazon would be a tremendous new addition to our borough, and we look forward to discussing their proposal for a new headquarters, and how The Bronx could host them, in the near future. The Bronx is a prime location for Amazon’s next home.”

The complete letter to Amazon can be read at http://on.nyc.gov/2xNtASO.

BP Diaz to Host 'Bronx Digital Education Summit'

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. will host the Bronx Digital Education Summit on October 6, 2017, at Metropolitan College of New York’s Bronx Campus, 463 East 149th Street. The event will begin at 8:30 a.m.

The summit will focus on “Creating the 21st Century Classroom,” and will feature speakers from the worlds of technology, education, business, government and other sectors who will discuss the need to merge the classroom with the tech world in order to properly prepare students for the workforce.

More information on the summit, including a complete list of speakers and how to register, can be found at https://bxdigitaleducation.splashthat.com/.

“Preparing our students for the economy of the future requires synergy between our schools and our growing tech sector,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “This event will help my office and others develop a plan for greater collaboration between our schools and our employers, and I look forward to taking part in it.”

The Bronx Digital Education Summit is sponsored in part by Metropolitan College of New York, The Knowledge House and Per Scholas.

BP Diaz Hosts Annual 9/11 ‘Day of Remembrance’

On Thursday, September 14, 2017, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and the Supreme Court of Bronx County co-hosted the borough’s annual “Day of Remembrance” to commemorate the families, friends and neighbors who perished in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

“Each year, we gather together to remember the lives we lost on September 11, 2001, and to mourn our friends and neighbors we lost that day,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “I’d like to thank the Supreme Court of Bronx County for once again partnering with my office on this important commemoration.”

Marvin Scott, PIX11 Senior Correspondent, served as the event’s emcee.

BP Diaz Hosts Muslim School Holiday Event

On Saturday, September 9, 2017, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. hosted his office’s annual Muslim School Holiday event at P.S. 83 in Morris Park. The event is designed to bring fun and activities for all in celebration of the addition of Muslim holidays to the public school calendar.

“Islam is one of the largest religions in the world, and, as I have said in the past, by recognizing these important holidays, we show that not only are we welcoming to everyone’s religious beliefs but that we respect everyone’s Constitutional right to freedom of religion,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “We are very happy to have a fun filled day for the children to enjoy.”

Over 300 community members attended the event. Bronx County District Attorney Darcel Clark, State Senator Jeff Klein and Assembly Member Mark Gjonaj also visited the event.

Mayor de Blasio: NYC Will be First City to Mandate that Existing Buildings Dramatically Cut Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Mandates on NYC’s 14,500 least efficient buildings to accelerate and deepen major efficiency upgrades; most ambitious program of its kind in the nation; financing to support retrofits, steep penalties for non-compliance; will spur 17,000 ‘green jobs’

NEW YORK— Mayor Bill de Blasio today announced new mandates that will force building owners to make sharp reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The new rules will compel owners to meet fossil fuel caps – requiring deeper upgrades to boilers, water heaters, roofs and windows on an accelerated 2030 timeframe – with sharp penalties for failure to comply.

“A greener borough and city has been a top priority of mine since I began my career in elected office. My office has funded innovative programs to expand the green economy, and I will not provide capital funds to any project that does not include a significant green component. Our building stock, especially older structures, is the top contributor of greenhouse gas emissions by far, and their environmental impact must be addressed sooner rather than later. This new initiative will continue to move our city in the right direction on climate change, and I congratulate Mayor de Blasio for undertaking this considerable effort to develop a cleaner, greener New York City,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Read the complete press release.

Borough President Diaz & Speaker Mark-Viverito
Announce Funding for Pregones Theater

Bronx leaders highlight $500K in joint funding to expand historic Latino cultural institution

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and New York City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito visited Pregones Theater in the South Bronx today to tour the theater's existing facility and discuss the forthcoming expansion of the historic cultural institution.

Pregones Theater is one of the premiere arts organizations in New York City and one of the most recognized Latino cultural organizations in the world. Both Borough President Diaz and Speaker Mark-Viverito have both provided $250,000 in capital funding to Pregones Theater in this year’s budget, which will be used towards the goal of constructing a new facility for the historic theater company adjacent to its current location on Walton Avenue.

“Pregones Theater is a true jewel of our borough, and one of the most important cultural institutions in our city,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “The arts and culture are important aspects of The Bronx, and Pregones Theater has played a key role in fostering our borough’s arts community since its inception. This funding will allow for a much-anticipated expansion of education and other programming at the theater, and I am proud to partner with Speaker Mark-Viverito on this important project, which will greatly enhance this nationally-recognized cultural organization.”

“Pregones Theater celebrates the rich cultural history and heritage of Puerto Rico and the Puerto Rican diaspora, and provides support for local artists who exemplify a multitude of artistic talents in the South Bronx. I am proud to have such a cultural gem in my district,” said New York City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito. “That is why I helped contribute $250,000 in funding through the Fiscal 2018 Budget to Pregones. I want to thank Borough President Díaz for his commitment to the arts in the Bronx, and I look forward to seeing the theater grow so it can continue to teach and inspire the South Bronx community.”

“This capital support from Borough President Diaz and Speaker Mark-Viverito represents a validation not only of Pregones Theater’s trajectory but of our plans for the future. The re-construction of the house adjacent to our Walton Avenue theater will provide lasting, efficient, and suitably flexible space for our expanded programs. Planned uses include: small format performances, rehearsals, training/education; video and telepresence (live streaming)/recording/editing; music recording/editing; hospitality for visiting artists and offices. We are grateful to our Borough President, to our Speaker, to our Bronx representatives and to our neighbors for their continued support,” said Rosalba Rolón, Artistic Director, Pregones Theater.
  
More information about Pregones Theater and its programming can be found at http://pregonesprtt.org/.

Registration is Open for the 2017 Tour de Bronx

Online registration is open for the 23rd annual Tour de Bronx!

The Tour de Bronx, which is recognized as the largest free cycling event in New York State, will take place on Sunday, October 22, 2017. Avid and casual riders from all over the Atlantic region and beyond choose from two routes and descend upon the borough for a full day of cycling and touring.

The 40-mile route offers riders views of Bronx waterfronts through Throggs Neck, City Island and Orchard Beach. The ride continues northwest through Woodlawn Cemetery and Kingsbridge/Riverdale. The 25-mile route takes riders through several Bronx parks and greenways as well as historic neighborhoods like the Grand Concourse and Mott Haven. Both rides end at the iconic New York Botanical Garden where they will enjoy a free music festival and receive a souvenir t-shirt and light snacks.

"It's just a great opportunity for both Bronxites and visitors to experience the borough in a unique way," says Olga Luz Tirado, executive director of The Bronx Tourism Council and producer of the event.

"The Tour de Bronx brings thousands of visitors to The Bronx each year, and we welcome them with open arms. I urge cyclists from all over the region and the world to sign up for this year's Tour de Bronx and get a firsthand look at the great things that are happening in our borough," said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.
Tour de Bronx is made possible with the support of Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx Lebanon Hospital Center, St. Barnabas Health System, and Mercy College. Domino's provides pizza for the event and Coca Cola supplies the water and Powerade sports drink.

For more information and/or to register for the 2017 Tour de Bronx, logo onto www.tourdebronx.com

BP Diaz Allocates Over $20 Million to Bronx Education Projects

On the first day of the new school year, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. announced that his office is providing more than $20 million in capital funds to 87 education projects all over the borough, as part of his FY 2018 capital funding allocations.

Projects funded this year include numerous classroom upgrades, the creation of new media centers, library renovations, technology upgrades, playgrounds, auditorium renovations and other physical plant improvements in public schools across The Bronx.

“I am proud to have funded so many important school projects in every corner of our borough. As I have said many times before, a quality education is the foundation that elevates all of us as society and as a community,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “Funding like this is critical to our borough’s continued growth.”

School projects funded by Borough President Diaz this year include $400,000 for the restoration and modernization of the library at the Bronx High School for Law & Community Service; $600,000 for technology upgrades for the entire school at I.S. 339; $50,000 for new computers and carts at New School for Leadership and Journalism, as well as dozens of technology upgrades at schools across the borough. 

In addition, $1,200,000 has been allocated to the Taft Educational Campus for renovations and improvements to the school’s athletic field, which will be converted into a multi-purpose sports field. The borough president has also allocated $4,632,000 towards the complete renovation of several school auditoriums. This includes renovations such as seat replacement, new lighting, sound systems and curtains. 

Since taking office in 2009, Borough President Diaz has provided $60,226,000 in capital funding to 388 school projects, nearly a quarter of his office’s total capital allocations during the time period.

“Helping to improve our schools is one more step forward towards providing better education in The Bronx. At the same time, this critical funding helps keep our educational institutions vibrant, and our students, teachers and parents inspired, and is an important component as we continue push to improve the lives of our 1.4 million residents,” said Borough President Diaz.

This year, Borough President Diaz’s office has provided $58,718,000 in total capital dollars across 146 projects. Since coming to office in 2009, Borough President Diaz has provided $248,646,000 in total capital funding to 725 projects.

A complete list of Borough President Diaz’s capital allocations towards education in FY 2018 can be found at http://on.nyc.gov/2j5boO6.

Mayor de Blasio and Chancellor Fariña Kick of
First Day of School with Launch of 3-K for All

Part of Mayor’s Equity and Excellence for All agenda now reaching over 1,150 schools

NEW YORK— Mayor Bill de Blasio and Schools Chancellor Carmen Fariña today joined students, families, and educators in the South Bronx for the first-ever day of 3-K for All. Building on the success of Pre-K for All, New York City is starting on the path to free, full-day, high-quality early childhood education for every three-year-old with nearly 1,400 three-year-olds registered in School Districts 7 in the South Bronx and 23 serving Brownsville, Ocean Hill, and East New York.

3-K for All is part of the Mayor and Chancellor’s Equity and Excellence for All agenda. The Equity and Excellence for All agenda, now in its second full school year, is supporting progress across all schools so that, by 2026, 80 percent of students graduate high school on time, and two-thirds of graduates are college-ready. It builds on record-high graduation rates, record-high college enrollment rates, record-low dropout rates, and a high-quality pre-K seat for every New York City 4-year-old.

"The evidence is clear: early childhood education offers considerable benefits to our children. Mayor de Blasio's "3-K For All" program will provide Bronx and New York City students with even greater opportunities for learning at an earlier age, and I look forward to working with the mayor, Chancellor Farina and the Department of Education to see this program expanded across our borough and our city," said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Read the complete press release.

Statement from Borough President Diaz
RE: Trump Administration's Repeal of DACA

“Doing away with the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program is another step in the wrong direction by the Trump Administration and represents a wrong-headed turn in immigration policy. It is no secret that President Trump came right out of the gates with hateful invective, launching his presidential campaign with xenophobic rhetoric labeling hardworking immigrants as ‘criminals’ and ‘rapists.’ His intentions were clear from Day 1 of his campaign, and since becoming president, he has done nothing but find ways to divide this country, building walls between the realities of the contributions that immigrants have made to our country while also spreading lies that cater to his alt-right base.

“DACA should not be weaponized as a list to deport and divide families. DACA should not be used to deprive students of educational opportunities that benefit us all, as a community, down the road when they make great contributions to our nation, using the tools they learned here, in our great country. I’m calling upon Congress to stop the madness and create a pathway welcoming DREAMers to become an integral part of our society,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Borough President Diaz, Mayor de Blasio Join Bus Riders
to Inaugurate First Workday of Bx6 Select Bus Service

Service will provide 24,000 daily riders with faster, more reliable connections to subways, Metro North, and 20 bus routes along four miles from Manhattan to the Bronx; the fourteenth SBS route builds on Mayor’s commitment to SBS expansion across the five boroughs

NEW YORK— Mayor Bill de Blasio today marked the first week of the Bx6 Select Bus Service (SBS) in Manhattan and the Bronx, a joint project of the New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) and MTA NYC Transit (NYCT). The four-mile route currently serves approximately 24,000 daily riders, and will provide them with faster, more reliable connection to the 1,C,4,B,D,2,5, and 6 trains, Metro North, and 20 other bus routes. Across the city, SBS routes have reduced bus riders’ travel times by as much as 30 percent. One in ten bus rides are now taken on an SBS route.

The Mayor rode the Bx6 SBS today along 1.5 miles of East 161st Street between River Avenue and Intervale Avenue in the Bronx.

“Bus riders deserve faster, more reliable service,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio.  “For riders on the BX6, this Select Bus Service means getting to work on-time, and getting home to family faster. We have committed to bringing Select Bus Service to more communities because it is a proven solution that reduces travel time, increases bus reliability and helps us meet the goals of major initiatives – both for a safer city under Vision Zero and a more equitable one under OneNYC.”  

“One of the most frequent concerns I hear from Bronx residents is the inability to easily navigate east/west travel in this borough, especially via public transportation. This new service, which will connect Northern Manhattan and the courthouse and stadium areas to the Hunts Point Market and everything in between through use of express stops and a dedicated bus lane will make it easier for Bronxites and others to travel to and from two of our most significant employment sites. I want to thank Mayor de Blasio, Commissioner Trottenberg and the DOT as well as the MTA for working with my office to implement this new service as smoothly as possible,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Read the complete press release.

Ways Bronxites Can Help People Impacted by Hurricane Harvey

Our office has compiled a list of resources Bronx residents can use to help the victims of Hurricane Harvey.

Please visit the link below for information on ways to help: http://on.nyc.gov/2xPk9xW

Governor Cuomo and Senators Schumer, Gillibrand and Congressman Serrano Announce Nearly $2.5 Million in Federal Funding For New Regional Food Hub in the Bronx

Food Hub Will Increase Access of Fresh, Local Food, Support New York's Farmers and Create 95 New Jobs, 150 Construction Jobs

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer, U.S. Senator Kirsten E. Gillibrand and U.S. Representative José E. Serrano today announced $2,484,746 in federal funding has been awarded for the New York State Greenmarket Regional Food Hub. The funding was allocated through the Economic Development Administration and will allow GrowNYC to move forward with construction of the new South Bronx food hub, first announced by the Governor in August 2016. The new facility will include a new wholesale farmers' market, USDA compliant cold storage facility, a food-processing center, and other infrastructure upgrades to support local food businesses. The new facility will move nearly 20 million pounds of local produce a year and create 95 permanent jobs and 150 construction jobs.

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. said, "This Regional Food Hub will build on our borough's continued success in creating jobs and bringing positive economic development to our borough. I congratulate Governor Cuomo and Congressman Serrano on securing this critical funding."

Read the complete press release.

BP Diaz Hosts 'Back to School' Event

On Saturday, August 26, 2017, Bronx President Ruben Diaz Jr. hosted his annual “Back to School” Literacy & Health Fair at the Pablo Casals Middle School 181 on the Co-op City Education Campus.

The event was co-sponsored by Montefiore, 92.3 AMP Radio, Healthfirst, with additional school supplies and backpacks donated by MetroPCS and FreshDirect. The event was also emceed by 92.3 AMP Radio personality and host Shoboy, and featured music, games and giveaways, as well as performances from the Ed Sullivan Fellows Program at New York University, Mind Builders and Rob and EC Salsero.

“Today is about celebrating youth, and the importance of education and fitness, as we begin the new academic year,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “While I am sure that most students are disappointed summer vacation is coming to an end, there is always an energy and buzz in the air about starting a new grade, and our annual ‘Back to School’ Literacy & Health Fair harnesses that excitement in a way where we can all have fun prior to the launch of the new school year, while also providing ‘Not62’ health tips as well as school supplies that help our future leaders stay focused in their studies.”

Council Members Mark Treyger & Donovan Richards Gather Elected Officials, Local Disaster Recovery Groups, Community-Based Organizations, and Advocates at City Hall to Encourage New Yorkers to Support Hurricane Harvey Relief Efforts

NEW YORK – Council Member Mark Treyger (Chair of the City Council’s Committee on Recovery and Resiliency) and Council Member Donovan Richards were joined by Council Members Chaim Deutsch and Mathieu Eugene, and a number of disaster recovery groups, community-based organizations, and advocates this morning on the steps of City Hall to encourage New Yorkers to contribute to reputable Hurricane Harvey relief efforts.

Hurricane Harvey has dropped 52 inches of rain, resulting in catastrophic flooding in Houston, TX and surrounding Gulf Coast areas in Texas and Louisiana, and it continues to move inland toward Kentucky. At least 37 people have been confirmed dead, and at least 17 are missing are so far. Tens of thousands of Americans have been evacuated from their homes, and 32,000 area residents are currently in shelters. At least 200,000 homes and businesses are without power. Reports estimate that the storm may cost somewhere in the range of $50 billion to $190 billion.

With the fifth anniversary of Hurricane Sandy approaching, the coalition – which included Human Services Council, New York State Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NYVOAD), Habitat for Humanity NYC, Waterfront Alliance, Faith in New York, Rebuilding Together NYC, St. Bernard Project, South Brooklyn Community Organizations Active in Disaster (SBCOAD), Queens Long Term Recovery Group, Staten Island Long Term Recovery Group, Yellow Boots Local Recovery Group, and more – reminded New Yorkers that in our time of need, individuals and local governments from across the country did their part to provide our region with assistance. Mayor Bill de Blasio, the FDNY, and the NYPD have already sent 120 brave first responders to Texas to coordinate and assist with search-and-rescue operations.

Council Members Treyger and Richards encouraged New Yorkers interested in providing financial support to go through reputable sources, including the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund (https://ghcf.org), established by Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner. The NYC Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City is also accepting donations for Hurricane Harvey relief through their website (http://www1.nyc.gov/site/fund/initiatives/hurricane-harvey.page).

“Hurricane Harvey’s devastation is shocking,” Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “As New Yorkers, we have seen the effects of Superstorm Sandy, and we can imagine the hardships that the people of Texas will face as they rebuild their communities. I am urging all New Yorkers to do what they can to help with Hurricane Harvey relief efforts and for our city to do everything it can to assist our fellow Americans.”

Read the complete press release.

Read all of Borough President Diaz's press releases and statements.