We appreciate Mayor Adams’ commitment to increasing permanent second-shift workers at 100 hot spots at city parks and expanding recreational access in underserved neighborhoods, both of which are part of the Play Fair agenda. But we need much more to fully fund and staff our parks system for all New Yorkers to have access to safe, clean places to recreate in and enjoy nature. Four years ago, the mayor campaigned on a promise to increase parks funding. Now, we are left fighting for scraps. We hope the preliminary budget will provide a full meal.
With climate denialism returning to the White House, this was a prime moment for Mayor Adams to demonstrate New York’s leadership in the fight against climate change. Unfortunately, he failed to note any action on climate change to build a more resilient city.
At a time when the nation is closely watching New York’s groundbreaking congestion pricing program, there was a disappointing lack of proposals that would improve mobility for New Yorkers. Key measures, such as expanding bus lanes, protected bike lanes or advancing initiatives for safer streets, were notably absent from his agenda.
New Yorkers deserve bold leadership and meaningful investment in our parks, climate resilience, and safe, sustainable transportation—not empty promises or missed opportunities.