Borough President Diaz Issues Negative ULURP
Recommendation on City Island Bridge

Today, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. issued a negative recommendation on the proposed construction of a new City Island Bridge. The recommendations come as part of the borough president’s charter mandated responsibilities in the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP).

“The entire process surrounding the planning and construction of this bridge has been flawed from the very start,” said Borough President Diaz. “The previous administration simply ignored the valid criticisms of the residents of City Island regarding this project, and I cannot support its construction at this time.”

Borough President Diaz noted that he was pleased that Department of Transportation Commissioner Polly Trottenberg was reevaluating the current project, specifically looking to see if the current plan can be swapped for a more muted, scaled-down design that is more in line with community suggestions.

“Without question I believe this entire matter could have been better addressed by the previous administration.  The ushering in of a new administration, however, provides an opportunity to address the current bridge design.   I am committed in pursuing an alternative vision for the City Island Bridge, which has for so long been sought by the City Island community,” stated Borough President Diaz in his ULURP recommendation.

The complete ULURP recommendation can be read at: on.nyc.gov/1ixUD51.

“My office will continue to work with Commissioner Trottenberg and the Department of Transportation, local elected officials and the City Island community to develop a reasonable solution to this issue,” said Borough President Diaz.

NYC DOT, NYPD, Elected Officials and Safety Advocates Announce an Arterial Slow Zone on the Grand Concourse, Continuing the Rollout of this Important Vision Zero Initiative

The Grand Concourse will be the second of 25 planned arterial slow zones, joining Atlantic Avenue; traffic signals to be retimed for 25 m.p.h. along the 5.2 mile corridor that has seen 12 fatalities between 2008 and 2012

The program expansion builds on the Vision Zero outreach process, where speeding on major streets has been identified by New Yorkers as a serious safety issue

New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Polly Trottenberg, NYPD Chief of Transportation Thomas Chan, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., Assembly Members Victor Pichardo and Mark Gjonaj and Council Members Vanessa Gibson and Ydanis Rodriguez announced today that the Grand Concourse in the Bronx will be the second in a series of 25 Arterial Slow Zones to be installed on major streets across the city, following last week’s program introduction on Atlantic Avenue. Beginning in April, traffic signals will be synchronized to reduce dangerous speeding along the 5.2 mile corridor from E. 140th Street to Mosholu Parkways that has seen 12 fatalities, including seven pedestrians, between 2008 and 2012.

Through a combination of improved signal timing to discourage speeding, distinctive signage and increased enforcement by the NYPD, the announcement continues the expansion of the arterial slow zone program, and other efforts by DOT and its partners to prevent traffic fatalities and improve safety on New York City streets. The Commissioner was also joined at the announcement by the Bronx Museum, Transportation Alternatives, and Youth Ministries for Peace & Justice.

"A safer Bronx is a better Bronx. This slow zone along the Grand Concourse will undoubtedly save lives, and we are grateful as a borough to Commissioner Trottenberg and the de Blasio administration for bringing the principles of 'Vision Zero' to one of our most trafficked thoroughfares," said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Read the complete press release.

Bronx Borough President visits South Bronx shredding company SHREDability

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. visited a secure document destruction facility in the South Bronx that focuses on hiring Bronx community members with disabilities. SHREDability, a service provided through AHRC New York City, employs 18 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities with 17 of them living and working in the Bronx. Bronx Borough President Diaz believes in the program wholeheartedly.

"This is an amazing business model, I always tell people 'think different,' 'think the Bronx.' So when you get SHREDability, the work that they've been doing here, the service that they provide, hiring [Bronx residents], making sure that they are doing that on an equal scale so that those who have certain disabilities also get job opportunities, this is exactly what we are trying to promote."

Steve Towler, an Assistant Executive Director at AHRC New York City, was thrilled to welcome the Borough President, and believes "...that this site visit will bring more attention to our program to allow us to expand our placement of disabled individuals [at SHREDability]."

The workers at SHREDability were very proud to welcome their Borough President and happy for the opportunity to discuss the work they do at SHREDability with their important guest.

BP Diaz Asks Mayor to Support Soundview Ferry Pilot

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. has written a letter to Mayor Bill de Blasio, asking the mayor to support a three-year pilot program for ferry service in Soundview.

“History clearly attributes the profound success of New York City to its ports and waterways. Rediscovering and reinventing how these same assets can be used today is what I believe this ferry service proposal represents. This proposal deserves to be tested, and it is my hope that, in partnership with your office, we can make this pilot program a reality,” wrote Borough President Diaz in his letter to Mayor de Blasio.

The full letter can be read here: on.nyc.gov/1mwQbq5.

Other elected officials and organizations joined Borough President Diaz to support the three-year pilot proposal.

“Residents in my community have long-endured grueling and often hours-long commutes by subways and buses, and on congested roadways. Over time these commutes take an emotional and economic toll on families racing between work and child care. That’s why I have long supported bringing ferry service to the Bronx. It will not only bring about dramatic quality-of-life improvements, but also reduce overcrowding on public transit and cut down on traffic-related pollution. I’m pleased to see Borough President Diaz making Soundview ferry service a priority, and I urge the mayor to adopt the three-year pilot plan,” said Council Member Annabel Palma.

Read the complete press release.

Appellate Court Decides in Favor of FreshDirect

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. is praising today’s decision of the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department in the matter of South Bronx Unite!, et al v. New York City Industrial Development Agency, et al, concerning the future relocation of FreshDirect to the Harlem River Yards in Mott Haven.

The court found that the decision of the lower court to dismiss the lawsuit in May 2013 was correct, and that the City did not violate the law in its environmental review process. The full decision can be read here: http://bit.ly/1jSPMKg.

“The court’s decision is a victory not only for FreshDirect, but for The Bronx as a whole. FreshDirect will continue to be a great asset to the Bronx.  My office has, since day one, understood that this project is crucial to the future economic health and vitality of the Bronx, and I am glad to see that the continued legal efforts to stop this critical project have been thoroughly dismissed,” said Borough President Diaz.

Borough President Diaz also noted that this project will create 1,000 new jobs while also relocating 2,000 jobs to the Bronx from Queens. Already, FreshDirect has displayed their commitment to the Bronx through hiring initiatives that have led to Bronx residents getting jobs at their existing Queens facility, the impending greening of their delivery fleet, the expansion of their services to the entire borough, food donations to Bronx families during the holiday season and their efforts to expand their services to EBT users.

“FreshDirect is bringing much needed jobs to our borough, and this decision will allow for this project to move forward without delay. I look forward to continuing our work with this company to get Bronxites hired,” said Marlene Cintron, President of the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation.

Testimony of Borough President Diaz
Before the City Council’s Transportation Committee
RE: Reso No. 15/Bruckner-Sheridan Expressway

Since the award of a federal grant from the United States Department of Transportation in 2010, the South Bronx community has worked intensively with city agencies, including our office, to develop a vision for the Sheridan Expressway and surrounding neighborhoods.  The Sheridan Hunts Point Land Use and Transportation Study was pursued in response to community calls for new development opportunities, better access to the Bronx River waterfront and safer, more livable streets.

Continue reading Borough President Diaz's testimony.

Borough President Diaz Hosted Annual Women's History Month Celebration

On Thursday, March 20, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and his wife Hilda hosted their annual Women’s History Month Celebration at the New York Botanical Gardens. Among those honored this year were Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez; New York City Public Advocate Letitia James; New York Stated Education Department Regents Member Dr. Betty Rosa. Community advocate Allene Roberts was honored posthumously. The event featured live music and a special performance by the Bronx Global Learning Institute for Girls.  PIX11 News Reporter Lisa Mateo was the Mistress of Ceremonies.

Statement from Borough President Diaz
RE: Passing of Sister Thomas

“I am saddened by the passing of a woman who spent most of her life dedicated to serving our community, Sister Thomas.

'“Sister Thomas always did God's work outside the church walls and gained the love and admiration of all through her tireless work in the Bronx.

“She was a long time member of Bronx Community Board #2. She is also known for her work at St. Athanasius in the South Bronx where she became a beacon of hope and a leader in the tenants' rights movement.

“Last, year the Bronx honored her with the official key to the Borough, which I presented to her during our annual Bronx week celebration. Sister Thomas was an advocate for those in need and kept her door open to all who sought her help.
“Sister Thomas was one of the most influential women in the South Bronx. A housing complex that bears her name pays tribute to her strength and character.

“Sister Thomas was a mentor, a critic, an inspiration and a friend. The Bronx has a heavy heart today. We will always remember Sister Thomas and keep her in our prayers,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Statement from Borough President Diaz
Re: Paid Sick Leave Legislation

“Today, Mayor de Blasio took a bold step forward for the people of this City by signing the amended ‘paid sick leave’ legislation into law. This new law will provide all Bronxites, and in fact all New Yorkers, the protection they need should they or a loved one fall ill, and I’m proud to support it. I commend the mayor, City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, my Manhattan colleague Borough President Gale Brewer, the City Council and those advocates who worked tirelessly to see this legislation become a reality,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Borough President Diaz Releases Waterfront Report

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. has released a new report outlining the positive effects the future redevelopment of the Special Harlem River Waterfront District will have on The Bronx.

As noted in the report, the redevelopment of the Special Harlem River Waterfront District (SHRWD)—located between East 138th and East 149th Streets—will bring no less than $500 million in new development to The Bronx, creating more than 3,500 new jobs and more than 1,500 new units of housing of all types.

“The Special Harlem River Waterfront District has the potential to totally transform an underutilized section of The Bronx while also creating new waterfront recreation opportunities for the entire borough. This report outlines many of the ways this development could help our continued efforts to build the ‘New Bronx,’ and will spark even more interest in the future of our waterfront,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

“This district is ripe for developers and small businesses alike to create a thriving, new community just a stop away from Manhattan. I look forward to working with all interested parties to bring new life to the Special Harlem River Waterfront District,” said Marlene Cintron, President of the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation.

Last month, Borough President Diaz discussed the future of the SHRWD in his annual “State of the Borough” address.

“Given all of this new development, we have to do more to influence growth. That means continuing to implement our conceptual master plan for the redesign of The Bronx. That means smart, sensible planning—planning with a purpose—that makes the most of our available amenities. It is time for the creation of a new waterfront district along the Harlem River between 138th and 149th Streets, one that would lead to development similar to the Brooklyn Bridge Park. Bronxites should have quality waterfront access, and this project could make that happen,” said Borough President Diaz in his speech.

The report can be read here: http://bit.ly/bxwaterfront.

Bronx Borough President and Citymeals Executive Director
Deliver Meals to Homebound Elderly in the Bronx

 “March for Meals” Puts a Spotlight on Food Insecurity Among the Aging

Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and Beth Shapiro, Executive Director of Citymeals-on-Wheels, took The Bronx by foot today as they delivered meals to three Citymeals-on-Wheels recipients to focus attention on the growing problems of food insecurity and malnutrition among the borough’s homebound elderly. Today’s Citymeals delivery is part of a coordinated week-long national effort called “March for Meals.”

Citymeals is a nonprofit organization that works through a public/private partnership with the New York City Department for the Aging to fund and deliver more than two million weekend, holiday and emergency meals each year to New York City’s frail aged residents.  Citymeals supplements the city government-funded weekday meal program and provides a source of nutrition to isolated elderly during times when they might otherwise go without.

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. said, “I hold the Citymeals-on-Wheels program very close to my heart, as a teenager I often times delivered meals to the elderly. There is nothing more fulfilling than making sure that our seniors are being taken care of with a hot meal and company. It is the least we can do to help the pillars of our community and I am glad that through programs like Citymeals thousands of homebound seniors in The Bronx and in our City have access to a good meal and some good conversation."

Read the complete press release.

Statement from Borough President Diaz
RE: DREAM Act fails in New York State Senate

"I am incredibly disheartened that the State Senate failed to pass the DREAM Act for New York State last night. This was a critical piece of legislation that would have greatly benefited immigrant families in every corner of this state. Last night, partisan politics got in the way of common sense," said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Borough President Diaz Hosted Annual Irish Heritage Celebration

On Thursday, March 13, 2014, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. hosted his annual Irish Heritage celebration at the Rambling House in Woodlawn. This year, Borough President Diaz presented a proclamation to Noel Kilkenny, Consul General of Ireland, and honored Caroline Duggan, teacher at PS 59 and founder of the Keltic Dream Dance Group; Father Richard Gorman, chairman of Community Board #12; and John Samuelsen, president of TWU Local 100.

As USPS Moves Ahead with the Sale of the Historic Bronx Post Office, Gillibrand Urges USPS to Meet with the Bronx Community Before Choosing a Winning Bid

Senator Presses for Space That Benefits the Community, Strengthens the South Bronx Local Economy

Gillibrand: “The Voices of Bronx Residents Must Be Heard”

Bronx, NY – As the United States Postal Service (USPS) moves ahead with the second phase of the sale of the historic Bronx post office, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand urged USPS to meet with the Bronx community and hear their concerns before deciding on a winning bid. With the review process underway of at least eleven submitted plans, Senator Gillibrand pressed the agency to choose proposals that would transform the City landmark into a space that would benefit the community and grow the local economy in the South Bronx.    

“The sale of the historic Bronx post office, a neighborhood cornerstone, is an important decision that will deeply impact the future of the South Bronx,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The USPS must ensure that the voices of Bronx residents are heard. The community deserves a transformative space that will strengthen the borough and help grow the local economy.”

“In order to get the best possible project, in order to see the best possible ideas move forward, the USPS must include our community’s input on the future of this historic building,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “We do have options. We have met with several developers that have put forward innovative ideas for this space. I am glad that this issue has Senator Gillibrand’s attention and I am grateful that she is working to make sure that the voices of Bronxites are heard for the betterment of our community.”

Read the complete press release.

Borough President Diaz Launches 'Respect Our Block' Poster Contest

Contest Will Encourage Boro Students to Help Keep Their Neighborhoods Clean

Today, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. announced the launch of the “Respect Our Block” Poster Contest. The contest will be open to elementary, middle and high school students across the borough, and will invite individual students or groups of students to create a poster urging their neighbors to “Respect Our Block.”

“Warmer weather is coming soon, and we want to make sure our streets and our parks are clean so that we can all enjoy the outdoors. This poster contest will help Bronx students display their own community spirit, and I hope that students from every corner of the borough participate in this contest and help keep their neighborhood clean,” said Borough President Diaz.

The “Respect Our Block” contest, which is part of the borough’s ongoing centennial celebrations, is being launched in response to concerns and complaints raised by Bronxites to the Borough President’s Office regarding litter, pet waste and other issues that can make a neighborhood look unappealing. Through this contest, Borough President Diaz hopes to engage the children of The Bronx and use their energy to make our streets cleaner and increase pride in The Bronx.

“It is never too early to get our youth involved in their communities. Through this contest, we can help instill a strong love for The Bronx in our students while making our communities nicer. We encourage students and teachers alike to get involved, and tell the world to ‘Respect Our Block!’” said Borough President Diaz.

Read the complete press release.

Learn more about the contest.

Borough President Diaz Exhibits Daniel Hauben's Artwork
as Part of Bronx Centennial Celebration

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and artist Daniel Hauben, a resident of Van Cortlandt Village, survey Hauben’s “Bronx Vortex” at the Borough President’s office. The piece is part of an ongoing art exhibit celebrating the centennial of Bronx County.

As one of the many events celebrating the centennial of Bronx County, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. has announced that his office will showcase the artwork of lifelong Bronx resident Daniel Hauben throughout 2014.

Daniel Hauben, a resident of Van Cortlandt Village who has been acclaimed as perhaps the Borough’s most versatile and prolific painter, has been painting for the past 25 years.  Mr. Hauben, known for being a landscape painter, works with oil paint and chalk pastels to depict what it means to live in this world though his artwork.  As a painter he has traveled to numerous countries and parts of the United States to capture both the beauty and fragility in both a natural and urban environment.  

Daniel Hauben will be showcasing his exhibit, titled ‘Bronx Works,’ at the executive office of the Bronx Borough President throughout 2014. The exhibit includes a full scale reproduction on canvas of his famous 17-foot homage to the Bronx entitled “Bronx Vortex.” This enormous painting captures a panoramic view and the essence of the Bronx’s Fordham Road and Grand Concourse.  At this exhibit you will also find other paintings by that artist that illustrates the Bronx in its everyday life.

“Daniel Hauben is a true artist. The Bronx is full of life and diversity and Daniel Hauben captures that spirit in his art,” said Borough President Diaz. “One of my favorite paintings from his ‘Bronx Works’ exhibit is titled ‘Bronx Vortex’ which is a panoramic view of the well known Fordham Road and Grand Concourse intersection.  I invite everyone to stop by my office to view Mr. Hauben’s extraordinary work.”

Read the complete press release.

Borough President Diaz Releases Annual Development Report

Highlights Over $5.7 Billion in Total Bronx Development Since 2009

Today, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. released his annual development report, highlighting the total development seen in The Bronx not just during the past year, but since he first took office in 2009.

The report notes that, in total, The Bronx has seen $5.768 billion in total development in all categories since 2009, when Borough President Diaz first took office. In 2013 alone, The Bronx saw more than $894 million in new development. The report follows last week’s “State of the Borough” address, in which Borough President Diaz outlined his vision for the “New Bronx” and discussed the ongoing growth of the borough’s economy.

“The ‘New Bronx’ is more than just rhetoric, it’s a movement,” said Borough President Diaz. “Our borough is seeing unprecedented new levels of development, with major new projects on the horizon and even bigger ideas ready to take flight. That is the ‘New Bronx.’”

The report notes other development highlights from 2013, including a total of $601 million in residential development, $171 million in institutional development and $121 million in commercial development across the borough.

“The Bronx has come a long way and our Borough continues to flourish with new development. I am delighted that The Bronx is making its mark and this is thanks to the hard work of our Borough President who understands the importance of bringing new projects to help strengthen our economy and create jobs for our residents,” said Marlene Cintron, President of the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation.

“The Bronx will truly benefit from these developments generating much needed economic activity.  These projects are responsible for commerce, job creation, and revenue for our great borough.   The Bronx Chamber of Commerce would especially like to thank our great Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., whose leadership has helped us advance the development and financial prosperity of the Bronx,” said Lenny Caro, President & CEO of the Bronx Chamber of Commerce.

“Working with partners like the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation, the New York City Economic Development Corporation, the Bronx Chamber of Commerce and others, my office will continue to implement its ‘New Bronx’ agenda, one that focuses on ‘planning with a purpose’ and responsible development,” said Borough President Diaz.

To read the complete report, visit http://on.nyc.gov/1pkMnYS.

Statement from Borough President Diaz
RE: NY Assembly Passes State Dream Act

“I am delighted that the New York State Assembly passed the DREAM Act for the second time. The passage of this critical legislation is over-due and will bring much needed relief to thousands of students across the Bronx, the City and State. As I mentioned in the ‘State of The Borough’ last week, this bill will open the doors to higher education and self-fulfillment for all of our children, regardless of their immigration status.

“Every year thousands of undocumented youth who graduate from New York high schools face an uncertain future because of their immigration status. In the Bronx alone, we have roughly half a million foreign-born individuals from all across the globe. These students deserve the chance to get a good education, and help grow our economy and in the process will help lower unemployment and strengthen our workforce.

“I congratulate Assemblyman Marcos Crespo as well as the New York State Assembly for passing this crucial bill. As a state with one of the largest immigrant populations, New York should be at the forefront of progressive immigration policies.  I hope for the continued success of this bill in the legislature,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Borough President Diaz Delivers Fifth 'State of the Borough' Address

BP Diaz Highlights ‘New Bronx,’ Over $5.7 Billion in Total Development Since 2009

Today, before a packed house at Hostos Community College, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. delivered his fifth annual “State of the Borough” address, highlighting his continued agenda for a “New Bronx” as well as the growth of the borough since 2009.

“Over the past four years, The Bronx has taken major steps forward in all categories, from job creation to crime reduction and everywhere in between,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “During the next four years we will continue to implement our aggressive agenda, and bring responsible development to every corner of the borough. That is the ‘New Bronx.’”

Since 2009, The Bronx has seen $5.768 billion in total development, the creation of more than 13,000 in new units of housing and more than 14,000 new jobs created. Borough President Diaz highlighted several specific projects, including the new retail mall at Bay Plaza, the relocation of FreshDirect to the Harlem Rail Yards and the forthcoming golf course at Ferry Point Park.

Borough President Diaz also highlighted the redevelopment of the Kingsbridge Armory into the Kingsbridge National Ice Center, a project that will bring the greatest ice sports complex in the United States to the Northwest Bronx.

“This project will bring $300 million in private development funds, living wage jobs and the strongest possible community benefits agreement ever written to our borough,” said Borough President Diaz in the speech. That, ladies and gentlemen, is ‘planning with a purpose.’ That, ladies and gentlemen, is the ‘Diaz Doctrine.’”

Read the complete press release.

Borough President Diaz Hosted Dominican Heritage Celebration

On Wednesday, February 12, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. hosted the borough’s official Dominican Heritage Celebration to celebrate the beauty of the Dominican culture. Borough President Diaz honored leaders from the Dominican Republic who have contributed to the growth and cultural richness of The Bronx. This year’s honorees included State Senator Hon. Adriano Espaillat, local business owner Manuel Lebron, and Supreme Court Justice Hon. Julia Rodriguez. The Borough President also presented a proclamation to Honorable Luis Lithgow, Consul General of the Dominican Republic of New York. The event was held at the Grand Slam Foundation on East Tremont Avenue and featured typical Dominican food and music.

Statement from Borough President Diaz
RE: Mayor de Blasio’s ‘State of the City’ Address

“I congratulate Mayor de Blasio on his first ‘State of the City’ Address. I am particularly pleased to hear that the mayor has committed his administration to drop the ongoing lawsuit opposing the ‘Fair Wages for New Yorkers’ Act, and will direct his administration to begin the full implementation of this important law. The fight for ‘living wages’ remains a fight for income equality, and I am proud to count Mayor de Blasio among our allies in that fight. My office will work with the mayor and the City Council to expand this law to cover more New Yorkers.

“Mayor de Blasio’s call for municipal identification cards is also a welcome initiative. My office handles thousands of constituent cases each year, and many of those come from undocumented immigrants and their families. These individuals are often reluctant to go to the police government for help for fear of reprisal, and this proposal will bring them out of the shadows. Municipal identification cards will make it easier for undocumented immigrants to receive essential city services and cooperate with police, leading to a safer city for all.

“I also echo Mayor de Blasio’s call for increased STEM education options within our CUNY system. In my ‘State of the Borough’ address last year I called for the creation of a STEM high school in the Bronx, one based on the successful P-TECH school in Brooklyn. “This is a top priority for my administration, and I will continue to work with the Department of Education to continue to make this happen.” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Mayor de Blasio Announces Agreement in Landmark Stop-and-Frisk Case

City to fully embrace stop-and-frisk reform, pledges respect for every New Yorker’s constitutional rights

Mayor Bill de Blasio today announced a historic agreement in the Floyd vs. City of New York case, taking steps to end the years-long legal battle that found the overuse of stop-and-frisk unconstitutional. Standing with plaintiffs, Police Commissioner Bill Bratton and incoming Corporation Counsel Zach Carter in Brownsville, Brooklyn, the mayor pledged to reunite police with communities across the city and to respect the constitutional rights of every New Yorker.

“The NYPD’s stop-and-frisk policy has driven a wedge between the police and our communities, and today’s decision is a major step toward rebuilding that trust. I am proud today to stand with Mayor de Blasio, elected officials, advocates and others as this important decision is made. Together, we can move forward and ensure that our streets remain safe and the people of this great city are treated with respect,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Read the complete press release.

Statement from Borough President Diaz
RE: Potential Sale of the Bronx General Post Office

“Our priority is for this location to remain a Post Office. However, in light of the fact that the USPS has made an apparent decision to sell the Bronx GPO over our objections, good faith demands that they seek community input on the future of the building. They must solicit the input of community stakeholders before any sale is made. This building is too important to simply be auctioned to the highest bidder,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Statement from Borough President Diaz
RE: Conviction of Assembly Member Eric Stevenson

“Today’s conviction of Assembly Member Eric Stevenson closes an unfortunate chapter in our borough’s history.

“As I have made crystal clear in the past, our borough and our city require and deserve honest, corruption free government. The public must have faith in its elected leaders, and the deplorable actions of Assembly Member Stevenson should not cast a bad light on all elected officials, most of whom work hard to deliver for their communities and solve the issues that face our neighborhoods. I will continue to work with my colleagues, the people of the 79th Assembly District and the people of the Bronx to restore the public’s faith in government,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Borough President Diaz Celebrates Inauguration & Bronx Centennial Kickoff

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. was joined by elected officials as well as business and community leaders for his inauguration ceremony and the official kick off to Bronx County’s year-round centennial celebration.

The ceremony featured the swearing-in of the Borough President and the entire Bronx City Council delegation, a historical nod to the first swearing in that took place when Bronx County was created in 1914. Those attending were also encouraged to use the hashtag #bronx100 to discuss the event on social media, a nod to the technology of today.

“Today is a historic day. Not only is it the ceremonial start of my second term as Borough President of this great borough I love, but we are also marking a major milestone as we celebrate the first 100 years of Bronx County.  It is our time to shine and let the world know that the Bronx is rich in history, culture and diversity and this is what we are going to showcase in our yearlong celebration,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

“The centennial affords us an opportunity to look two ways.  We look back 100 years to the origin of the Bronx County and the progress we have made since then.  We look forward to using our past advance as a springboard to the future,” said Bronx Historian Lloyd Ultan.

Read the complete press release.

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