Mayor Adams highlights achievements in building safer, more affordable NYC

As 2024 concludes, New York City Mayor Eric Adams and his administration have unveiled a comprehensive review of accomplishments, emphasizing strides in public safety, affordable housing, and quality of life improvements.

“From day one, our administration has focused on creating a safer, more affordable New York City,” said Mayor Adams. “Thanks to our extraordinary public servants, America’s safest big city got even safer this year. We passed historic legislation, shattered affordable housing records, and put billions back into New Yorkers’ pockets. But we know there is even more we can do to uplift working-class families.”

Mayor Adams touted a significant drop in overall crime, including a 7.3% reduction in homicides and a 6.8% decrease in shootings. The NYPD seized over 6,000 illegal firearms this year, bringing the total number of guns removed under Adams’ tenure to more than 19,600. Adams also highlighted the impact of his “Charge Safe, Ride Safe” initiative, which led to a 72% reduction in lithium-ion battery fire deaths since its introduction.

“New York City’s streets and subways are safer than they’ve been in years,” Adams asserted.

The administration shut down over 1,300 illegal cannabis shops and seized $87 million worth of illicit products through the “Padlock to Protect” initiative. In addition, more than 73,000 ghost cars and illegal vehicles were removed from city streets.

“Closing illegal shops and removing dangerous vehicles from our streets are essential steps to improving quality of life,” Adams said.

Adams hailed 2024 as a banner year for affordable housing, with 29,000 affordable homes financed, a record 14,700 new homes constructed, and the largest affordable housing project in 40 years approved at Willets Point. The administration also launched the Tenant Protection Cabinet to combat housing discrimination and keep New Yorkers in their homes.

“Affordable housing is the foundation of an affordable city,” said Adams. “We’ve broken records and will continue to ensure every New Yorker has a roof over their head.”

Under Adams, New York City reached its highest job numbers in history. His administration connected nearly 8,500 job seekers with employment opportunities and set records for minority and women-owned business contracts, awarding $6.4 billion in FY24.

“From small businesses to the World Cup, we’re bringing jobs and opportunities to every corner of this city,” Adams said.

Adams emphasized his “War on Trash” initiative, which expanded curbside composting citywide and implemented containerized trash rules. Public space initiatives transformed 500,000 square feet into plazas and pedestrian zones. Additionally, $1.2 billion was invested in flood prevention infrastructure.

“Clean streets and resilient infrastructure are key to a thriving New York City,” Adams remarked.

Adams pledged continued focus on affordability and safety, stating, “As we look to the future, we remain committed to making this city a beacon of hope and opportunity for all who call it home.”

With a blend of policy milestones and forward-thinking strategies, the Adams administration is positioning New York City for a prosperous and inclusive future.