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.

Statement from Borough President Diaz
RE: Gov. Cuomo’s ‘State of the State’ Address

“I am thrilled that Governor Cuomo committed his office to bringing four new Metro North stations to the Bronx in his ‘State of the State’ Address today.

“Governor Cuomo understands that new Metro North options in Co-op City, Parkchester, Morris Park and Hunts Point will not only make our region’s transportation system stronger, it will also open up our borough and its residents to new economic opportunities. The East Bronx Metro North Expansion proposal is a transformative plan, and I commend Governor Cuomo for moving this plan forward as part of his own agenda. On behalf of the 1.4 million people of my borough, we thank Governor Cuomo for his support of this much needed transportation plan,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

In May 2013, Borough President Diaz and New York State Senate Co-Leader Jeff Klein jointly released a report outlining the economic benefits of the East Bronx Metro North Expansion Plan. That report can be found at http://on.nyc.gov/JI6e3S.

Statement from Borough President Diaz
RE: City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito

“I offer my congratulations today on this historic occasion to my colleague in government, City Council Member Melissa Mark-Viverito, on her election to the position of City Council Speaker. Speaker Mark-Viverito has been a strong advocate for the people of the entire City, and has a well-deserved reputation as a tireless fighter for causes that are important to The Bronx.

“I know that Speaker Mark-Viverito will make our City proud, and I look forward to working closely with her, and our borough’s City Council delegation, on moving forward our shared vision for the ‘New Bronx,’” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

NYCEDC Announces Hunts Point Terminal Produce Market Commits
to Stay in the Bronx Until At Least 2021

Deputy Mayor Robert K. Steel and New York City Economic Development Corporation President Kyle Kimball today announced that the Hunts Point Terminal Produce Market has exercised a seven year lease renewal option, which commits the market to stay in the Hunts Point section of the Bronx until June of 2021.  The Terminal Produce Market is among the largest wholesale produce markets in the world, sitting on 105 acres of property and comprising one million square feet of interior space, of which 660,000 square feet is refrigerated.  This lease renewal will keep the approximately 3,000 direct jobs at the Terminal Produce Market in the Bronx for at least the next seven years, providing a significant economic impact and ensuring this important piece of the food distribution infrastructure of New York City and the region remains in the borough.  The agreement also preserves the Terminal Produce Market’s existing 10 year renewal option which can be exercised in June 2021 in order to continue to operate on the site into the future.  The Hunts Point Terminal Produce Market and the City will also partner for repair work to the existing buildings and site to ensure the market is operating in a more modernized facility.

“The Hunts Point Terminal Produce Market is one of the largest economic engines in the entire region, and this new agreement will keep thousands of jobs right where they belong: in the Bronx,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “I'm happy to have worked with the Bloomberg administration, Deputy Mayor Steel, the NYCEDC and the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation over the past year to help make this agreement a reality.”

Read the complete press release.

Borough President Diaz Hosts Veterans' Toy Drive

On Friday, December 20, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. hosted his annual Veterans' Toy Drive at the Bronx Zoo. The yearly event provides toys for the children of Bronx veterans, and features snacks, rides and a visit from Santa Claus.

Borough President Diaz Meets with Consul General of Israel

On Wednesday, December 18, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and Ido Aharoni, the Consul General of Israel in New York, met in the Bronx to discuss ways the two offices could work together in the future on a variety of issues. Borough President Diaz and Consul General Aharoni also exchanged gifts representing the Bronx and Israel, respectively.

Statement from Borough President Diaz
RE: Paris Elections & Bronx Stereotypes

“The tired, ancient stereotypes about the Bronx continue to unfairly cloud the minds of people as far away as Paris, France. We in the Bronx have had enough.

“Crime has steadily dropped in the Bronx. Last year, the Bronx had the lowest rate of crime it has seen since the early 1960’s, and this year our borough is on pace to be even safer.

“And we’re not just leading the way in crime reduction. Tens of thousands of new housing units have been constructed here, new businesses are coming to our borough and the existing businesses are growing. We are leading the way in ‘green’ construction, with projects like Via Verde. We have major new projects such as the PGA caliber golf course at Ferry Point Park and the Kingsbridge National Ice Center, which will add to the list of reasons, like the new Yankee Stadium, and the New York Botanical Garden, as to why the Bronx remains an international destination. 

“Yet here we are, once again, forced to defend our hometown from the slanders and libels of politicians thousands of miles away, in Paris no less, who are using the Bronx to score cheap political points. Enough already.  While we may not be home to the Eiffel Tower, we are the home to 1.4 million hardworking people who are proud of their hometown and how far the Bronx has come.

“The elected officials of Paris would do well to remember that and focus on the issues Paris faces today, rather than the issues the Bronx faced decades ago,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

The original English-language article from Quartz Daily, titled “Surreal: French politicians are debating whether Paris now resembles the Bronx,” can be found at http://qz.com/156444. Up-to-date crime statistics for the Bronx can be found at http://on.nyc.gov/198ruvr.

Statement from Borough President Diaz
RE: City Council Approval of the Kingsbridge National Ice Center

“After years of hard work and advocacy by elected officials, community organizations, our community board and the people of the Bronx, I am thrilled to see that the redevelopment of the Kingsbridge Armory will finally become a reality.

“Today’s vote of the City Council represents the final hurdle cleared for the Kingsbridge National Ice Center (KNIC), a transformative project that will make the Bronx home to the nation’s largest ice sports center. KNIC will bring tens of thousands of new visitors to the borough, helping to stimulate our economy, while also creating hundreds of living wage jobs for Bronx residents.

“I am especially thankful for the support of our City Council and the entire Bronx City Council delegation, who understood the merits of the project and showed their strong support for it during today’s vote. The KNIC project will be good not just for the Northwest Bronx but for the entire borough, and the strong support of the entire Bronx delegation shows that to be true. I would also like to thank the developer, KNIC Partners, as well as Mark Messier and Sarah Hughes for their tireless advocacy on behalf of this wonderful project.

“This project is a victory for everyone involved, and represents the type of development when can see when everyone works together for the greater good. I look forward to this project’s completion, and the day when the Bronx can officially declare itself to be the premier ice sports destination in the United States, if not the world,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Read the complete statement.

Borough President Diaz Lit the Bronx's Official Christmas Tree

On Thursday, December 5, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. lit the Bronx’s official Christmas tree in front of the Bronx County Building on the Grand Concourse. The annual tree lighting ceremony featured Christmas carols by Public School 1, The Courtlandt School's Honor chorus, as well as hot cocoa and cookies. Borough President Diaz celebrated the tree lighting along with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Testimony of Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.
Before the City Council’s Zoning and Franchises Subcommittee
On the Kingsbridge Armory
December 5th, 2013

Good morning, Chairperson Weprin and the members of the City Council’s Zoning and Franchises Subcommittee, I am Ruben Diaz Jr., Borough President of the Bronx. 

I am here today to offer my enthusiastic support for the Kingsbridge National Ice Center and the four ULURP applications, which when approved will facilitate construction of one of the most outstanding ice sports arenas in the world.  This project transforms an iconic yet vacant, landmark into a destination for thousands, and by so doing it will also revitalize an entire community and offer permanent living wage employment for Bronx residents. 

Read Borough President Diaz's complete testimony.

Statement from Borough President Diaz
Re: The Passing of Nelson Mandela

“I am truly saddened by the passing of one of the greatest figures of our time, South African activist and former President Nelson Mandela.

“Nelson Mandela was an advocate for human rights and the face of the antiapartheid movement both in South Africa and around the world. Mandela fought for what was right, for the freedom of his people, and gave up his own freedom spending nearly three decades in prison. He remained a devoted champion for peace and social justice up until his last moments.

“His legacy will forever live in our hearts. My prayers go out to his family as well as the countless of individuals whom he touched directly and indirectly through his work,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Statement from Borough President Diaz
Re: Mayor-Elect de Blasio picks Bill Bratton for Police Commissioner

"With his choice of Bill Bratton as Police Commissioner, Mayor-Elect de Blasio is poised to continue decades of progress that have made us the safest big city in America and have driven crime in the Bronx to an all time low.  Mr. Bratton knows we don't have to choose between keeping our people safe and protecting their rights. We can and will have both,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Borough President Diaz Urges Bronx Residents to
Apply to Your Local Community Board

Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. today invited Bronx residents to make a difference in their community by joining their local Community Board. The Office of The Bronx Borough President will be accepting applications for all 12 Community Boards from city residents who reside, work or have professional or other significant interests in the Bronx.

“Participation on local Community Boards can provide Bronx residents with a forum to share with their community their expertise and talents,” stated Borough President Diaz. “There are great things happening in the Bronx that involve the participation of community boards. It is important that community residents participate in the decisions that are building the ‘New Bronx,’ and our community boards are a great place to do so,” said Borough President Diaz.

Applications are available at the Borough President’s Community Board office at (718) 590-3914 or at your local community board office. Interested applicants may also get the application on line at bronxboropres.nyc.gov.

The deadline for submission of applications for the next round of appointments is February 7, 2014.

Download Application

Borough President Diaz & Dr. Ruth Westheimer
Celebrate Chanukah in the Bronx

On Tuesday, December 3, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., together with Dr. Ruth Westheimer, world renowned Psychosexual Therapist and Author hosted the borough’s annual Chanukah celebration.

The event  took place at 1 p.m.in the Bronx County Building, 851 Grand Concourse, in Veterans Memorial Hall. Traditional Chanukah foods, such as latkes and jelly donuts were served. The event also featured a musical performance from Kinneret Day School choir.

The event is co-sponsored jointly by the Bronx Jewish Community Council, the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation and the Bronx Tourism Council.

Statement from Borough President Diaz
Re: Metro North Train Derailment

“This morning a horrible accident has left four people dead and dozens more injured, casting a dark shadow over the Thanksgiving and Hanukkah holidays. While we learn more about the specifics of what exactly happened this morning, my thoughts and prayers, as well as those of all 1.4 million Bronx residents, are with the victims and their families as they deal with this terrible tragedy," said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Families looking for information on specific passengers should call 718-817-7444. Visit mta.info or call 511 for more information regarding transit service.

On Wednesday, November 27, (l to r) Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., State Senator Gustavo Rivera and Governor Andrew Cuomo helped unload a delivery of food at Part of the Solution (POTS), a community dining room and food pantry on Webster Avenue near Fordham Road. The delivery was donated to POTS to help with the organization's Thanksgiving meal service.

FreshDirect Announces 2,000 Turkey Donations

On Tuesday, November 26, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. joined FreshDirect CEO & Founder Jason Ackerman to deliver more than 200 turkeys to the residents of the Betances Houses on St. Ann's Avenue. The turkeys were delivered to the event in one of FreshDirect's all-electric delivery vehicles, part of the company's commitment to an environmentally-friendly fleet.

Online Grocer Will Distribute Free Turkeys In NYC And Philly For Thanksgiving

NEW YORK – FreshDirect is donating a total of 2,000 turkeys this week to various groups throughout New York City and Philadelphia in anticipation of the Thanksgiving holiday.

The schools and charitable organizations receiving the turkeys are the Brooklyn Anti-Violence Coalition, Urban Upbound, Project HOME, the Lantern Organization, and Public School 209 in the Bronx.  The offices of State Senator José Peralta, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., and Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz will also help distribute donated turkeys.

“A warm, nutritious meal is the centerpiece of the Thanksgiving holiday,” said FreshDirect CEO and co-founder Jason Ackerman.  “We’re glad we can help families who need it the most share in this occasion.”

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. said, “Thanksgiving is a time for families to come together and enjoy a warm, fresh meal. I commend FreshDirect for helping provide countless of families in need here in The Bronx and the entire City of New York with part of that meal. This act of kindness is a testament of FreshDirect’s continued commitment in providing our residents with high quality foods in time for the holiday season as well as year round. I look forward to continue working with FreshDirect.”

Read the complete press release.

Brough President Diaz Writes to DOT RE: Italian Flag on Arthur Avenue

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. wrote a letter to the New York City Department of Transportation regarding the repair of the Italian flag in the street at the corner of East 187th Street and Arthur Avenue.

Download the letter.

Borough President Diaz Hosted Bronx Puerto Rican Heritage Celebration

On Thursday, November 22, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. hosted the annual Bronx Puerto Rican Heritage event. The event was held at Monroe College's King Hall, and Bronx residents enjoyed an evening of música típica, dancing and delicious dishes of Puerto Rico.

Statement from Borough President Diaz
RE: Borough Board Vote on Kingsbridge Armory Redevelopment

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. is celebrating this morning’s unanimous vote at the Bronx Borough Board in support of the forthcoming redevelopment of the Kingsbridge Armory.

“Today’s vote will facilitate the construction of a world class skating, community and educational facility that will be the catalyst for positive redevelopment not just in the surrounding community, but across the borough,” said Borough President Diaz.

The 10-0 vote of the Bronx Borough Board included three City Council Members—Fernando Cabrera, G. Oliver Koppell and Andy King—who attended the meeting to offer their support for the project in person.

“The Kingsbridge National Ice Center promises to not only bring living wage jobs to the community, but also provide world class facilities that will benefit our youth here in the Bronx, the City of New York and the surrounding region. As I have said numerous times, this project is going to have a tremendous positive impact on not just the Northwest Bronx but the entire borough, and I am proud to support the development of the Kingsbridge National Ice Center,” said Borough President Diaz.

Read the complete statement.

Borough President Diaz Releases Community Board Task Force Report

Today, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. released the final report of his Community Board District Office Management Taskforce, outlining various ways that the borough’s 12 Community Boards can work together to improve service delivery for the residents of the Bronx.

“Our community boards are often the first line of defense when it comes to our neighborhoods, be it concerns over new development, quality of life and the many other issues that the 1.4 million residents of this borough care about, and are focused on every day,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “This report outlines some new ideas that can make our borough’s community boards, which already play a major role in the lives of the people of the Bronx, even more relevant.”

"Like the City and Borough we are comprised of the role, image, and function of the Community Boards has changed and evolved over time.  Our charge from the Borough President has been to analyze the constantly evolving roll of the Community Boards and provide our recommendations to adapt this crucial element of our city governance to accurately reflect a modern dynamic,” said Jose Rodriguez, District Manager of Bronx Community Board #4 and chairman of the task force.  “As such, it is the assessment of this Task Force that the aforementioned recommendations take the most effective and cost efficient approach in ensuring the stability and function of the Community Boards while increasing services and the manner in which they are delivered.  The recommendations highlighted provide a multi-disciplined approach including policy, social service, and technology.  It is the belief of this Task Force that this multi-pronged approach is vital to promote the continued growth and success of our city and Borough."

The full report features a number of recommendations regarding Bronx Community Boards and service delivery on a variety of topics, including land use, improved service delivery, board member training and improved social media use, in order to better inform both board members and the community at large.

The full report can be read at: http://on.nyc.gov/1bEkcLY

Read the complete press release.

Lawsuit Against Proposed New City Island Bridge Announced

CITY ISLAND, NY – Standing at the foot of the historic, 112-year old City Island bridge, community leaders and local business owners announced the filing of a civil lawsuit against the Department of Transportation as part of their effort to halt construction on the bridge's controversial new replacement. The new bridge's proposed design includes a 150 foot tower and an aesthetic that many residents believes threatens the unique and historic character that drives thousands of tourists to City Island each year. Despite serious concerns raised by community members, Island residents and business owners were never formally invited to be part of the process.

“The people of City Island have the right to voice their concerns or support for the construction of a new City Island Bridge, and this lawsuit will ensure that this proposed bridge is subject to complete review. I strongly believe that the DOT should begin the ULURP process immediately, so that City Island residents have their chance to speak out on this proposal before a single shovel hits the ground. City Island residents have expressed real concerns with the design and cost of this bridge and it is imperative that the ULURP be completed with transparency and collaboration with the residents and businesses of City Island before the City moves forward with its new design.  I look forward to an amicable resolution to this entire matter,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Read the complete press release.

CPC Unanimously Approves Kingsbridge Armory

In a unanimous vote, the City Planning Commission today approved the Kingsbridge Armory ULURP application, moving the much-heralded Kingsbridge National Ice Center (KNIC) project one step closer to completion. The project now heads to the Bronx Borough Board and then to the City Council, where it will seek its final approvals before it reaches the mayor’s desk.

“This is an extremely important, transformative project that will not only reshape this historic structure, but will provide living wage jobs, recreation opportunities and community programming. This project will not just help revitalize the surrounding neighborhood, but will add to the borough’s new reputation as a sports mecca while advancing the concept of the ‘New Bronx.’ I look forward to its approval at the City Council,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Read the complete press release.

Borough President Diaz Hosted Annual Pumpkinfest & Spooktacular

On Thursday, October 31, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. hosted his annual Pumpkinfest & Spooktacular. This year’s event, which took place at the Forest Houses, was filled with numerous treats for the entire family, such as; the maze of horror, pumpkin designing, face painting, popcorn, cotton candy, and much more.

One Year After Sandy:
Bronx Lawmakers Celebrate Re-Opening of Tony’s Pier Restaurant

Family-owned City Island restaurant burned to the ground in a fire during Superstorm Sandy

Standing at the far end of City Island, elected officials, members of the City Island business community and the owners of Tony’s Pier, came together to celebrate its re-opening a year after a fire consumed the entire restaurant during the height of Superstorm Sandy.

At the press conference, Senator Jeff Klein, joined by Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., Assemblyman Mike Benedetto and members of the City Island Chamber of Commerce highlighted the progress made following Superstorm Sandy, while noting there is more work to be done.

Directly following the storm, Senator Klein’s office met with the owners of Tony’s Pier Restaurant and helped the owners obtain a building permit, expedited their electrical and gas work, ensured speedy review of building plans by the Department of Environmental Protection and worked with the State Liquor Authority and Community Board to obtain a license to serve alcohol.

Senator Jeff Klein (D-Bronx/Westchester) said,  “Exactly one year ago, Tony’s Pier caught fire in the heart of Superstorm Sandy. As flames consumed the restaurant, decades of hard work and history were at stake. The day after the storm, I saw the damage Sandy had caused and vowed to do everything I could to get our local businesses and residents back on their feet. In the past year, we worked hard to help rebuild Tony’s Pier – from expediting building permits to getting the lights turned on, and all that comes in between, my office worked with the owners and planners every step of the day. Today isn’t only a time to reflect on the hardships Sandy caused. It is also a day to celebrate the hard work and resilience of our community.”

“One year ago, Superstorm Sandy devastated this beloved Bronx business. But Tony’s Pier is back, stronger than ever, and I am proud to be here today for their reopening. We have much to celebrate in our borough, and the return of Tony’s Pier is a moment for the entire Bronx to be thankful for the dedication of this business to our borough and their commitment to reopening, bigger and better than ever,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Read the complete press release.

Borough President Diaz Kicks Off
3rd Annual ‘Savor the Bronx’ Restaurant Week

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., in conjunction with American Express, officially kicked off the 3rd Annual “Savor the Bronx” Restaurant Week today at Jake’s Steakhouse in Riverdale.

“Savor the Bronx” Restaurant Week, produced by the Bronx Tourism Council and co-hosted by the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation (BOEDC), showcases the borough’s best eateries by offering special values and discounts. 

“Once again I would like to invite all New Yorkers and visitors with open arms to our beautiful Borough to ‘Savor the Bronx.’ During our official restaurant week I strongly encourage both visitors and residents alike to try a new restaurant or return to a favorite. I am sure Bronxites and visitors from across the region will enjoy from a wide selection of restaurants that are sure to leave their taste buds craving for more,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

"We are excited to share Bronx flavors with visitors, especially during ‘Savor the Bronx’ Restaurant Week. Tourists can enjoy great food at an affordable price in a friendly and welcoming environment,” said Olga Luz Tirado, Executive Director of the Bronx Tourism Council.

This 12-day event, which runs from November 4th to November 15th, is the perfect opportunity to explore your taste buds and the Bronx.  From Italian cuisine in Little Italy to seafood on City Island and everywhere in between, “Savor the Bronx” offers everyone a chance to enjoy the diverse flavors our borough has to offer. 

During the press conference, the internationally-renowned Jake’s Steakhouse and the Bronx Brewery gave samples of what to expect at this year’s Bronx restaurant week. Dozens of restaurants are participating in this year’s “Savor the Bronx.”

For more information, visit www.savorthebronx.com.

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