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

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

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Click here for the press release outlining the BP`s 2025 Agenda

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.”

What Others Are Saying:

Public Safety & Community Well-being

“Investing in our youth, ensuring true public safety, and strengthening education are critical pillars in building a stronger, more unified Bronx. For too long, our communities have suffered from systemic disinvestment, but Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson has remained on the front lines, taking action to close these gaps and create real opportunities for our residents. Her leadership and commitment to our borough are paving the way for a more equitable and empowered future.” – NYC Council Member Althea Stevens

“I am proud to stand alongside Borough President Vanessa Gibson in our shared commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of Bronx residents. In recent months, we have tragically lost several community members to gun violence, highlighting the urgent need for action. Her leadership has driven meaningful action, from funding borough-wide cameras and mobile command vehicles to launching the West Bronx Community Safety Partnership, all of which are making a real impact in protecting our neighborhoods. Together, we are not only tackling public safety head-on but also working to revitalize the South Bronx by supporting new businesses, tackling food insecurity, creating jobs, and reopening cherished community spaces like movie theaters, restaurants, and markets. The Borough President’s dedication is helping us move the Bronx forward, ensuring that our communities have the security, opportunity, and prosperity they deserve.”–NYSAssemblymember Landon Dais, Assembly District 77

“I am proud of the ongoing partnership with Bronx Borough President Gibson — from collaborating on community safety through the West Bronx Community Safety Partnership, to pushing for a community-based development for the Kingsbridge Armory, to investing in our schools with new STEM labs, tech supplies, and track and field upgrades, to supporting tenants and small businesses during the Twin Parks fire, the partial building collapse at 1915 Billingsley Terrace, and most recently, the fire along the Burnside commercial corridor. I look forward to how we can continue working together to investing in the constituents of the West Bronx in District 14.” – NYC Council Member Pierina Sanchez

“Tonight’s State of the Bronx reinforces our borough’s resilience, progress, and the work still ahead. From investments in education and housing to public safety and economic opportunity, I am grateful for my partnership with Bronx President Gibson to champion policies that uplift every Bronx resident. Bronx Borough President Gibson has been a leader and a partner in addressing critical issues our constituents face across the district, ranging from health, accessibility, food insecurity, and more. Below are just some of the investments we’ve partnered with Bronx Borough President Gibson to facilitate for Bronx residents over the past year. I look forward to continuing my partnership with Borough President Gibson to ensure our Bronx communities can thrive and succeed,” – NYC Council Member Eric Dinowitz.

“BP Gibson has stood as a staunch advocate for families throughout our community. Her love for fathers being active in the lives of their children is demonstrated through her unwavering support, advocacy & leadership. We appreciate her work supporting our mission to enlighten and advocate for fathers in our borough as we restore the image of fatherhood, while responsibly respecting the privilege of being a dad!” – Marques Payne – BFTA Member and Proud Father

Health & Healthcare Access

“The American Cancer Society is grateful for Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson’s support of the Breast Cancer Movement of The Bronx and the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk of The Bronx. Because of her support we can continue advancing life-saving research, providing crucial patient support grants and inspiring thousands to take action and be more aware of the importance of early detection and prevention of breast cancer.” – Rosemary Perez-Bell, MUA, American Cancer Society

“GrowNYC is incredibly grateful for Bronx Borough President Gibson’s leadership and advocacy around community health and food sovereignty. In 2024, we partnered with the Bronx Borough President’s Office to promote healthy eating and nutrition education at various GrowNYC food access sites throughout the Bronx, distributing more than $5,000 in Health Bucks. We’re eager to partner with the Bronx Borough President to protect the future of our most vulnerable communities and ensure equitable access to fresh, affordable produce for the Bronx!” – Marcel Van Ooyen, President of GrowNYC

“Every Bronx resident deserves to breathe clean air, walk safe streets, receive quality healthcare, have affordable housing, and access to nutritious food. The Health Department takes pride in our community initiatives: hosting discussions about reimagining the Cross Bronx Expressway, working across agencies to address challenges like open drug use, providing Health Bucks for fresh produce purchases, and running the Tremont Neighborhood Health Action Center. These efforts aim to improve health outcomes across the Bronx. By working together, we’re creating a stronger, healthier Bronx and a better New York City for families.” – Anita Reyes, Bronx Neighborhood Health Assistant Commissioner

“Together, we are building a powerful movement for equitable reproductive and maternal healthcare in New York State, starting with the Bronx. We are united in prioritizing that birthing people throughout the Bronx have access to culturally responsive, high-quality midwifery care and birth centers. By amplifying marginalized voices and prioritizing community engagement, we aim to address racial disparities in maternal health and empower communities to advocate for birth and reproductive justice.” – Myla Flores, Founder of the Birthing Place

“The Bronx Health Link’s work to improve maternal health in the Bronx would not be as impactful without the steadfast support of Borough President Gibson. Her commitment to our initiatives began during her time on the City Council and has only deepened in her current role. Through her active endorsement—attending our events, supporting community outreach, and connecting us with key stakeholders—she has helped us reach hundreds of Bronx families and birthing persons. BP Gibson was instrumental in facilitating partnerships that led to our First Annual Community Baby Shower and has provided a platform that expanded our reach across the borough.” – Shirley Leyro, Administrative Director, The Bronx Health Link

“As the largest provider of care in the Bronx, Montefiore Einstein values our strong partnership with Borough President Gibson and her office. Our annual collaborations reflect our shared commitment to improving the health and well-being of all Bronxites. From the #Not62 Campaign for a Healthy Bronx to the Bronx DiVA Campaign and other key initiatives, we remain dedicated to working together to advance health equity and support the communities we serve.” – Melissa Cebollero, Montefiore Associate Vice President, Community Relations, Montefiore

“The Bronx has faced significant health disparities and is often ranked among the boroughs with the worst health outcomes in New York City. MetroPlus Health truly values having a partnership with the Borough President who acknowledges these challenges and actively works toward solutions. In 2024, we launched a series of sessions, and we’re excited to continue the ‘Healthy Conversations’ initiative into 2025.” – Rasheeda Petersen, Associate Director, Bronx Sales, MetroPlus

Environmental Sustainability & Green Initiatives

“WM has had the honor to partner with Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson in our shared mission to create a greener, healthier South Bronx. Together, we have made significant strides in expanding tree canopy coverage, advancing environmental justice, and improving the health outcomes of local residents. These efforts are not just about planting trees—they are about planting hope, resilience, and opportunity for communities that have long been underserved. Borough President Gibson’s leadership and commitment to securing a sustainable future for the Bronx have been instrumental in driving this progress. As we look ahead, we remain steadfast in our collaboration to ensure that every resident of the South Bronx can thrive in a cleaner, greener, and more equitable environment.” – Jay Kaplan, Senior Manager of Environmental Protection and Community Relations, WM Greater Mid Atlantic

“In the heart of the South Bronx, where concrete traps heat, and green space is scarce, trees are more than just nature—they are life. Every planted tree cools our streets, cleans our air, and offers a refuge from rising temperatures. To combat the urban heat island effect, we must invest in green spaces, ensuring a healthier, more resilient future for our communities.” – Mychal Johnson, Co-founder and Board Chair of South Bronx Unite

“I salute Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson for being a champion of the environment. Her support to plant a million more trees citywide, her efforts to cap the Cross Bronx Expressway, and her advocacy work to increase the NYC Parks budget will all improve the quality of our lives. Her work in combating heat island effect, decreasing noise and air pollution, and reconnecting communities will truly transform the Bronx, and the health and well-being of Bronxites for generations.” – Nilka Martell, Founder of Loving the Bronx

Economic Development & Infrastructure

“Krispy Kreme is grateful for the outstanding support of the New York Department of Labor. Their dedication to creating pathways for employment has been instrumental in helping us build exceptional teams in our shops across the city and especially at our Bronx Doughnut Factory. For more than five years, their partnership has made a meaningful impact, and we appreciate their continued efforts to create opportunities for both communities and businesses like ours.” – Krispy Kreme

“We’re incredibly excited to open the Concourse theatre in the Bronx, which brings the Regal moviegoing experience to every borough of NYC.” – Jerry Grewe, VP of Development at Regal

“Our local guests at the Regal Concourse theatre have access to the latest releases, luxurious recliner seating, ultimate laser projection and sound, an expanded food and beverage menu, and collectible movie-themed merch.” – John Curry, SVP of Commercial at Regal

“Samaritan Daytop Village is proud to partner with Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson to protect a bright, healthy future for The Bronx residents. From our award-winning Highbridge affordable and supportive housing development, which will provide beautiful, amenity-rich, green homes to hundreds of families, to our integrated community health center, and our street outreach recovery teams, we are ensuring that The Bronx is ‘where good lives’.” – Mitchell Netburn, President and CEO, Samaritan Daytop Village

“The opening of New York Blood Center’s first Bronx donor center in decades marks a major step toward strengthening the local blood supply and ensuring lifesaving donations are available for Bronx hospitals and patients.” – Andrea Cefarelli, Senior Vice President at New York Blood Center

Community Engagement & Leadership

“Always present / Always vocal the people of the Bronx need Vanessa Gibson. She is the right choice for us. She has helped the community in various ways: developing programs for all, housing, children’s services, always there for us seniors. She is the one for the Boogie Down Bronx.” – Emily Bautista, Resident Council President, Randall Balcolm Senior

“Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, did a very good job in her capacity as Borough President. She worked with all communities, brought capital grants for the community. She showed her respect and support for all faiths and all groups. I wish her all the best at the State of the Borough Address.” – Mohammed N. Mujumder, LLM, Chairman, Bronx Community Board 9

“Bronx Community Board 8 (CB8) is appreciative for all the hard work and accomplishments Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson has made to improve the quality of life in our community district, and the borough of the Bronx through the years. Borough President Gibson has allocated funds to various organizations, schools, and programs throughout the Bronx CB8 district giving financial support and items for improvement, such as Infrastructure Repairs, iPads, A+ STEM Labs, Green Infrastructure, State of the arts Athletic Field Renovations, and much more.” – Bronx Community Board 8