BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON HOSTS 2025 STATE OF THE BOROUGH: “SECURING THE BRONX, PROTECTING OUR FUTURE

BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON HOSTS 2025 STATE OF THE BOROUGH: “SECURING THE BRONX, PROTECTING OUR FUTURE

Theme: Securing the Bronx, Protecting Our Future

Announces Major Investments in Jobs, Public Safety, Health, and Community Development

Photos will be made available here

Bronx, NY – Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson unveiled a series of key initiatives and investments aimed at driving economic growth, improving public safety, and enhancing the quality of life for Bronx residents. With a focus on job creation, economic development, maternal health, and community revitalization, the Borough President reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to building a stronger, more resilient Bronx.

“Our administration is focused on investing in the people of the Bronx—creating economic opportunities, improving public safety, and ensuring that all residents have access to the resources they need to thrive,” said Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “Through strategic partnerships and historic investments, we are laying the foundation for a more equitable and prosperous borough.”

Key Announcements:

1. Future Forward Bronx: Expanding Job Opportunities

Borough President Gibson is partnering with the New York State Department of Labor to connect Bronx residents with high-quality career pathways. Recognizing the need for increased workforce development, her office is hosting a series of job fairs at Bronx Borough Hall, prioritizing employment opportunities for historically underrepresented communities, young professionals, and those seeking career advancement in high-demand industries.

2. Addressing the Maternal Health Crisis: Birthing Center Report

In response to the Bronx’s disproportionately high maternal mortality rate, Borough President Gibson announced her commitment to working with stakeholders and investing capital funding to establish a Bronx-based birthing center. This initiative aims to improve maternal healthcare access and outcomes for Bronx families, following the release of her Birthing Center Report, which outlined key recommendations for its creation.

3. Advocacy for a Bronx Blood Center & the Importance of Blood Donation

Borough President Gibson has been a steadfast advocate for a dedicated Bronx Blood Center, emphasizing the critical need for local blood donation facilities to support hospitals, emergency services, and patients with chronic illnesses. After persistent efforts and collaboration with healthcare organizations, she announced that a Bronx Blood Center will be opening soon, marking a significant victory for public health in the borough.

During her announcement, Borough President Gibson urged Bronx residents to donate blood regularly, highlighting how a single donation can save multiple lives. She reaffirmed her commitment to working with local hospitals, community leaders, and the New York Blood Center to ensure that Bronxites have convenient access to life-saving blood donation opportunities.

4. $20 Million Investment in Morris Park

The Bronx has been selected as NYC’s winner of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) and NY Forward funding, securing a landmark $20 million investment for Morris Park. These funds will drive economic development, support small businesses, enhance public parks, and upgrade pedestrian and transit infrastructure—further positioning Morris Park as a thriving business and residential district.

5. Public Safety & Security Camera Investments

Borough President Gibson is reinforcing public safety measures through targeted security investments:

• Illegal Dumping Prevention: Security cameras will be installed in key locations in coordination with city agencies to deter illegal dumping, promoting cleaner streets and neighborhoods.
• Enhanced Public Safety: In FY25, additional funding has been allocated for security cameras at NYC Public Schools, NYCHA developments, and high-traffic areas, in collaboration with the NYPD, to ensure safer environments for students, residents, and businesses.

6. Combating the Opioid Crisis: Recovering Together Initiative

As part of a borough-wide effort to address the devastating opioid epidemic, Borough President Gibson has launched the Recovering Together Initiativein collaboration with the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Business Improvement Districts, and healthcare leaders. This initiative includes:

• Narcan Training Sessions: Conducted in the communities most affected by opioid-related deaths, these trainings will equip residents with life-saving knowledge to prevent overdoses.
• $600,000 Investment in the Hub: Reaffirming her commitment to public safety, these funds—administered by the Third Avenue BID and the Bronx Economic Development Corporation—will support infrastructure improvements and expanded services in the Hub, a critical area for recovery and community resources.

7. Launch of Senior Resource Guide

To support the Bronx’s aging population, Borough President Gibson is introducing a Senior Resource Guide, designed to connect older adults and caregivers with essential services, including healthcare, affordable housing, transportation, and senior engagement programs.

8. Expanding Homeownership & Tenant Rights Protections

Housing stability remains a top priority. The Borough President’s office will host Homeownership Workshops to educate first-time buyers on mortgage processes and financial planning. Additionally, Tenant Know Your Rights sessions will empower renters with information on legal protections and resources to prevent displacement.

9. Greening the Bronx: Parks & Environmental Initiatives

Borough President Gibson is advocating for 1% of NYC’s budget to be dedicated to NYC Parks, reinforcing the borough’s commitment to green space expansion, tree planting, and urban sustainability efforts to combat climate change and improve air quality.

10. Over $50 Million in Education Investments

Education remains a cornerstone of Borough President Gibson’s vision for the Bronx. In FY25, she allocated $15 million specifically for Bronx schools, as part of an overall $50 million investment in education. This funding will support:

• STEM and Hydroponic Labs: Expanding access to cutting-edge technology and hands-on learning.
• School Facility Renovations: Enhancing classrooms, libraries, and athletic spaces.
• State-of-the-Art Equipment: Ensuring Bronx students have the tools they need to succeed in a competitive job market.

11. Expanding Entertainment & Economic Development: Regal Cinema at Concourse Plaza

A new Regal Cinema has officially opened at Concourse Plaza, filling the gap left by the closure of the Concourse Plaza Multiplex. This investment in entertainment and cultural access provides families and residents with expanded leisure opportunities, boosting the local economy.

12. Transformative Kingsbridge Armory Redevelopment

The long-anticipated redevelopment of the Kingsbridge Armory is moving forward, marking a major milestone for Bronx economic revitalization. This historic project will create jobs, attract businesses, and establish a dynamic community hub for commerce and cultural engagement. Borough President Gibson has allocated $2 million to support the reimagining of this iconic Bronx landmark.

Looking Ahead

“These investments are about more than just projects—they’re about people,” Borough President Gibson emphasized. “Every initiative we pursue is centered around ensuring that Bronx residents have access to good jobs, safe housing, quality healthcare, and vibrant public spaces. Our work is far from over, and we remain committed to securing the Bronx and protecting our future.”