Bronx Borough President outlines $20M revitalization plan and community initiatives

The Bronx Borough President's office held a public hearing on March 28, 2025, focusing on community engagement, economic development, and public safety initiatives. The meeting highlighted ongoing efforts to recruit new members for community boards, with an application process that began on March 21. The Borough President emphasized the importance of selecting diverse and experienced candidates to represent the community effectively.

A significant announcement was made regarding the recent award of $20 million from the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) for the greater Morris Park community. This funding, the first DRI award for the Bronx since 2015, aims to support various projects, including commercial revitalization and infrastructure improvements. The Borough President expressed pride in this achievement, noting the potential for economic growth and job creation in the area.

The meeting also addressed public safety concerns, with plans to allocate additional funds for security measures, including mobile units for the NYPD and cameras to combat illegal dumping. The Borough President highlighted the need for increased police recruitment to address staffing challenges within the department.

In addition to public safety, the Borough President discussed initiatives aimed at improving maternal health outcomes, including the establishment of a new birthing center in the Bronx. This center aims to address disparities in maternal mortality rates, particularly among women of color.

The meeting concluded with a focus on upcoming events, including Bronx Week, which will take place from May 6 to May 18, 2025. The Borough President encouraged community participation and emphasized the importance of celebrating the Bronx's diverse culture and achievements.

Overall, the public hearing underscored the Borough President's commitment to fostering community engagement, enhancing public safety, and driving economic development in the Bronx. Further updates on the initiatives discussed are expected as the year progresses.