Mayor Adams expands "co-response" strategy for subway safety, homeless outreach

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing public safety and social services for the city’s most vulnerable populations within the subway system. Known as the Partnership Assistance for Transit Homelessness (PATH), this innovative program is a collaboration between the New York City Police Department (NYPD), the Department of Homeless Services (DHS), and NYC Health + Hospitals. Launched in August.

According to the official website of the City of New York, PATH reflects a growing trend of “co-response” models, where police officers work alongside clinical professionals to provide comprehensive support to individuals in need. Mayor Adams emphasized the importance of this approach, stating, “Keeping New Yorkers safe on our subways and maintaining confidence in the transit system that each day moves over 4 million people is key to ensuring that New York remains the safest big city in America.” He noted that since its launch, PATH teams have engaged with over 1,500 unhoused individuals and provided services to more than 500 people.

Operating overnight from 8:00 PM to 12:00 PM, PATH teams comprise DHS nurses and outreach staff who collaborate with NYPD transit police to conduct outreach in subway stations. These teams engage individuals who appear unsheltered, offering tailored support based on their specific needs. The program is set to expand in the coming months, building on the city’s commitment to address homelessness and mental health issues.

Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom stated, “Since the beginning of our administration, we have been laser-focused on creating outreach opportunities and supportive connections with people living in unsheltered environments. Our PATH teams are another tool to do this work with response teams including NYPD, social service professionals, and nurses from our public hospital system.”

In a time when public safety and mental health are pressing concerns, the PATH initiative aims to foster trust and strengthen relationships between city agencies and the communities they serve. NYPD Interim Commissioner Thomas G. Donlon remarked, “The men and women of the NYPD are proud to be part of the significant advances we are making to ensure that all New Yorkers—especially those within our most vulnerable populations—can readily access the city services they require and deserve.”

PATH operates in conjunction with the Subway Co-Response Outreach Teams (SCOUT), an initiative announced by Mayor Adams and MTA Chair Janno Lieber to enhance outreach during the daytime. The coordinated efforts of PATH and SCOUT are expected to provide more comprehensive coverage of the subway system, allowing for greater access to essential services for those in need.

Since the launch of the Subway Safety Plan in February 2022, the city has made significant strides in connecting unhoused individuals to shelter and permanent housing. Over 7,800 individuals have been assisted, with more than 640 now residing in permanent, affordable housing.

As New York City continues to tackle the challenges of homelessness and mental health, the PATH initiative represents a crucial step forward in building a safer and more compassionate urban environment. With the ongoing support of city agencies and the community, Mayor Adams remains committed to addressing these pressing issues and ensuring that no New Yorker is left behind.