For the first time in 30 years, the Long Island Rail Road, the biggest commuter rail system in the nation, is on strike, causing havoc across the region, as some 300,000 daily riders have to find alternate ways to get to work.
At a time when the air quality is already bad, the increased traffic and emissions will make it worse.
People who normally have to drive for work, to get to doctor, or some emergency are stuck in traffic, at a time when gas prices are reaching new heights, compounding family financial woes.
You look at the vacant cafes and shops around the train station that are normally bustling with people.
The timing is interesting, aimed at hurting Governor Kathy Hochul who is being challenged by Republican Bruce Blakeman, the Nassau County Executive.
The NICE buses which are under Blakeman’s control, take only 13,000 people from Long Island train stations, depositing them at subway stations in Queens.
A commute that normally takes 40 minutes can take 2 hours.
The timing of the strike – the first in 30 years – is interesting, especially since the MTA put very favorable terms on the table, and the LIRR workers are already the highest paid in the nation.
I would bet Trump is behind the Long Island Railroad strike in order to boost Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, who is the Republican challenging Governor Kathy Hochul and thinks the strike makes Governor Hochul look bad and the pain it will cause the 300,000 daily LIRR riders will result in lots of angry votes against her, because of course you blame the Democrat – except it actually makes Blakeman look impotent.
It also makes it clear that like his idol, Donald Trump, Blakeman is willing to inflict misery and suffering on his constituents in order to benefit himself. The Teamsters, who have supported trump for the unfathomable notion that trump is for workers and for unions (when he has sold workers and unions under the bus at every turn) and that waving the trump flag makes them more patriotic and better Americans than others (radical liberal lunatics who want to be able to afford food, clothing and shelter) are doing this to bolster Blakeman.
Here’s how you know that Blakeman is enjoying seeing Hochul and Long Islanders squirm: he could offer to help organize NICE buses to relieve some of the stress, but instead, uses the opportunity to try to get Hochul to cancel congestion pricing tolls (which he sued to overturn), to be told by Hochul that it is not possible under the federal contract. Instead, the pro-Blakeman NICE unions are urging bus drivers to support the LIRR strikers and not change their schedules to help. (Where were the unions defending the federal workers as they were fired by DOGE?)
But Governor Hochul, while showing respect for unions and workers, has noted that Long Island Railroad workers are already the highest paid in the country, and if the MTA accedes to their fairly outrageous demands, it not only will force a further increase in fares for already hard-pressed Long Islanders, but will trigger similar, unsustainable increases throughout the workforce.
“The LIRR is more stable now than it has been for generations,” Governor Kathy Hochul stated. “The decision by some unions to strike over demands that would threaten that progress is reckless. These unions represent the highest paid workers of any railroad in the nation, yet they are demanding contracts that could raise fares as much as 8%, pit workers against one another, and risk tax hikes for Long Islanders. This is unacceptable. My priority is protecting affordability for riders and ensuring fairness across the workforce.
“The disruption that Long Islanders face starting tonight is the direct result of reckless actions by the Trump Administration to cut mediation short and push these negotiations toward a strike. For weeks, the MTA has attempted to negotiate in good faith and put multiple fair offers on the table that included meaningful wage increases, but you cannot make a deal if one side refuses to engage in good faith.
“Commuters are dealing with unnecessary dysfunction and thousands of union LIRR workers are being forced to go without a paycheck because of decisions made by a small group of union leaders. I stand with LIRR riders and will fight to preserve the long term stability of the MTA. I believe a deal can be done and I urge both the MTA and these unions to return to the table and bargain non-stop until a deal is reached.”
The Long Island Railroad Strike has stranded some 300,000 riders a day, cost millions of dollars of economic activity daily, exacerbated traffic and pollution when air quality is already bad. The Teamsters’ demands would cause fares to increase 8%, and trigger wage and cost increases across the state’s workforce at a time when commuters can scarcely afford it.
Governor Hochul, while showing respect for unions and workers, has noted that Long Island Railroad workers are already the highest paid in the country, and if the MTA accedes to their fairly outrageous demands, it not only will force a further increase in fares for already hard-pressed Long Islanders, but will trigger similar, unsustainable increases throughout the workforce.
Here are Governor Kathy Hochul’s remarks about the Long Island Railroad strike – Karen Rubin, editor@news-photos-features.com
“The Long Island Rail Road is essential. Every day it carries nearly 300,000 commuters and without this service, life on Long Island as we know it is not possible.
“As Governor, I have been proud to make historic investments in the LIRR. Working with the MTA, we increased service by 40%, improved safety for riders and workers, secured the railroad’s fiscal future after the pandemic, and delivered transformative projects like the Main Line Third Track and Grand Central Madison.
“The LIRR is more stable now than it has been for generations. The decision by some unions to strike over demands that would threaten that progress is reckless. These unions represent the highest paid workers of any railroad in the nation, yet they are demanding contracts that could raise fares as much as 8%, pit workers against one another, and risk tax hikes for Long Islanders. This is unacceptable. My priority is protecting affordability for riders and ensuring fairness across the workforce.
“The disruption that Long Islanders face starting tonight is the direct result of reckless actions by the Trump Administration to cut mediation short and push these negotiations toward a strike. For weeks, the MTA has attempted to negotiate in good faith and put multiple fair offers on the table that included meaningful wage increases, but you cannot make a deal if one side refuses to engage in good faith.
“Commuters are dealing with unnecessary dysfunction and thousands of union LIRR workers are being forced to go without a paycheck because of decisions made by a small group of union leaders. I stand with LIRR riders and will fight to preserve the long term stability of the MTA. I believe a deal can be done and I urge both the MTA and these unions to return to the table and bargain non-stop until a deal is reached.”
After the strike was underway, Governor Hochul gave a briefing and discussed what was being done to mitigate the disruption in transportation:
I want to give Long Island Rail Road riders the latest updates on the strike. Let me be clear, I did not want a strike. The MTA did not want a strike. The MTA has put fair offers on the table, in fact, many of them. And so despite that, for the first time in 30 years, the hundreds of thousands of people who rely on the LIRR are without service because of a strike. We all know that the railroad is the lifeblood of Long Island. Without it, life as we know it is simply not possible. The bottom line is: No one wins in a strike. Everyone is hurt — the hundreds of thousands of people who rely on the railroad, and the thousands of unionized workers who are losing out on wages.
I want to speak directly to the men and women of labor at the LIRR: The work you do is absolutely vital. Absolutely. I value your labor, and I believe that you deserve fair wages and benefits. But this strike has put all that at risk. Just three days of a strike would erase every dollar of additional salary that workers would receive under a new contract. We don’t need to be here. Workers deserve better, but also New Yorkers deserve better. That’s why today I’m urging all parties once again to bargain at the table, and to get a deal done.
I also want to give an update to the Long Island Rail Road riders who are wondering about work tomorrow. Now, I’ve been in close communication, I’ve been touring the sites. I’m here at the Operations Control Center to talk to the individuals overseeing the lines that we anticipate the highest volume on tomorrow — you’ll hear more about that from our MTA leadership team — and we have a plan to ensure that essential workers can get into the city during the workday commute.
Now, starting at 4:00 a.m. tomorrow, the MTA will deploy shuttle buses to bring essential workers from across Long Island to subway stations in Queens, and those shuttle buses will be standing by to bring those essential workers back home to Long Island at the end of the day, to Long Island and Queens.
For those in Nassau County who absolutely cannot work from home, there continues to be the option of taking a Nassau Inter-County Express bus directly to the subway connections in Queens. They’ll run extra bus service weekdays during the strike, and we’ve encouraged the county to add additional capacity.
Another option is Citi Field. With the Mets hitting the road tomorrow, you can park there and transfer to the 7 train.
So right here, as I said, in the nerve center of the subway, every day four million New Yorkers rely on this system to get around. This subway system is absolutely vital, even more so tomorrow. And the MTA, as I’ve listened and asked questions, they’re ready to meet the challenge. Extra trains are on standby, and the MTA stands ready to run additional New York City subway service to meet the demand. And for the residents of Eastern Queens, who typically rely on the speed and convenience of the LIRR, the E and A trains are there for you as a great option to get to and from the city at this time.
But let’s face the facts. It’s impossible to fully replace LIRR service. So effective Monday, I’m asking that regular commuters who can work from home should. Please do so. And employers should make every accommodation necessary to allow for remote work. Now, I’ve already directed all state agencies affected to implement telecommuting plans for the state employees who typically commute in from Long Island. But also, we have to maintain essential government services. Now, everyone knows these alternatives are not business as usual. But unfortunately, they’re the direct result of this strike.
Let me be clear: This strike would not have been possible if the Trump Administration had not taken the highly unusual step last fall of releasing labor unions from mediation. Unfortunately for our commuters, the direct consequence of this action is the strike we have today.
Now, New York, everyone knows, is a pro-labor state. We believe in working men and women receiving a fair wage and benefits. But the MTA cannot agree to a contract that would raise fares as much as eight percent and risk hiking taxes for Long Islanders. I have worked too long and hard to reduce costs for our residents, and I will not allow that to be undone. As Governor, my priority is to fight for affordability for all New Yorkers, and this strike puts that affordability at risk.
Long Islanders deserve a break, as do all the residents who commute on our lines from Queens and elsewhere. They face tariff prices, price hikes on everything from food to school supplies, and skyrocketing gas prices after Trump’s war in Iran. I will not let this dispute lead to higher prices and less money in the pockets of our residents.
So we’re looking at ways to defray the costs caused by this strike, costs that fly in the face of affordability, and I’ll have more to say about that in the coming days if necessary.
Now, remember this — not long ago when I became Governor, the MTA was barreling off a fiscal cliff. Rider post-pandemic was down, and there were calls to reduce service and slash costs. I took a different approach. I said, “Let’s invest more. Let’s create more reliability. Let’s have a higher level of service.” And those results have borne out. We’ve invested billions of dollars, and I need those investments to hold and not be diminished. And as a result, ridership has surged back, nearly all the way back to the pre-pandemic levels, which is an extraordinary result, and I want to thank all the workers across the lines and at the MTA who’ve been responsible for that success.
Like I said, I put the MTA on stable financial grounds. I worked hard to do that, and I don’t want that undone. I will not let that be undone. But I believe, I know a deal can be reached to end this strike and end it soon. But to reach the deal, as I’ve said before, the MTA needs a partner. The MTA has made multiple generous offers with real wage increases.
I urge both sides to come together as soon as possible and resolve this to avoid a prolonged strike that’ll disrupt the lives of hardworking New Yorkers and affect the pocketbooks of the union members that their leaders are representing. So getting everyone back to the table is the surest way to resolve this strike, also achieving all of our goals, and getting the trains running once again.
Governor Kathy Hochul signed two bills to safeguard access to lifesaving vaccines for New Yorkers as the Trump administration continues to undermine the scientific consensus around the safety and efficacy of immunization. The bills were introduced in March in coordination with New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie.
“When public health comes under attack by an anti-science administration, New York fights back,” Governor Hochul said. “Sadly, our country has witnessed the deadly consequences of politicizing science and rejecting expert opinion, especially for young people. That’s why this legislation protects access to lifesaving vaccines for New Yorkers of all ages. I thank Leader Stewart-Cousins and Speaker Heastie for partnering with us on this legislation to keep New Yorkers healthy.”
The first bill, A.10710/S.9599, requires that in addition to the vaccines recommended by the federal Advisory Committee on Immunization Practice (ACIP), health insurers also cover vaccines recommended by the Commissioner of Health to the Superintendent of Financial Services, utilizing generally accepted medical standards and taking into consideration recommendations by nationally or internationally recognized scientific organizations.
The second bill, A.10711/S.9598, removes references to ACIP in the Public Health Law (relating to school immunization requirements and recommended immunization schedule for newborns), Education Law (relating to the immunizations that physicians and nurse practitioners are authorized to prescribe or order and that pharmacists are authorized to administer), and Social Services Law (relating to Medicaid coverage). The legislation would also authorize pharmacists to administer the COVID-19 immunization to children ages two to 18 under State law. Currently, pharmacists are only authorized by State law to administer the vaccine to adults.
New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “I thank Governor Hochul for her continued leadership and unwavering commitment to protecting public health and ensuring New Yorkers continue to have access to safe, effective, evidence-based immunizations. Vaccines remain one of the greatest public health tools in history, protecting individuals, families and entire communities from serious and preventable diseases. At a time when misinformation is undermining confidence in science, this legislation reinforces New York State’s commitment to following trusted medical guidance and keeping New Yorkers healthy.”
Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, “In an era where federal health officials are undermining scientific integrity and sowing skepticism about lifesaving vaccines, New York is making the conscious choice to champion our medical professionals and reaffirm this state’s commitment to the evidence-based practices that have safeguarded communities for generations. This joint legislative package builds off our previously passed proposals and embodies a comprehensive and scientifically grounded approach to public health. It reinforces our healthcare system while modernizing our vaccine guidance to ensure it is clear, accessible and firmly anchored in expert knowledge. Together, we are not just advocating for public health; we are upholding the principles of science and evidence that have been proven time and again are essential for a healthy society.”
Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie said, “As the administration in Washington continues its attacks on lifesaving immunizations and places people at risk, New York will stand firm on the side of proven science. Vaccines are the bedrock of public health and a critical bulwark against harmful and deadly diseases. The Assembly Majority will always prioritize the health and wellbeing of New Yorkers and we will continue to work with our partners in government to safeguard access to these vital resources that keep our communities safe and healthy.”
State Senator Gustavo Rivera said, “I am grateful to Governor Hochul for signing these two bills and ensuring that New York State prioritizes scientific research and knowledge when it comes to life saving vaccines as well as making them more accessible to all New Yorkers. This sends a clear message to the federal administration and the rest of the country that public health must be protected from unfounded conspiracies that are putting communities in danger.”
State Senator Jamaal Bailey said, “We are committed to the scientific consensus that keeps our families safe. By having medical experts guide insurance coverage, we are creating a vital safeguard for public health in New York State. This legislation breaks barriers to care by authorizing pharmacists and medical professionals to do their jobs without unnecessary limitations, making it easier for parents to choose the medical resources they deem necessary for their children. I thank Governor Hochul and my colleagues in government for ensuring that the health of New Yorkers remains in the hands of New Yorkers.”
Assemblymember Amy Paulin said, “As our federal administration continues to undermine the long-trusted science behind lifesaving vaccines, it is critical that we take decisive action to ensure our communities remain safe and healthy. This legislation safeguards vital guidance New Yorkers need to make informed choices regarding their health and ensures that our residents continue to have access to the immunizations they need. I thank Governor Hochul for her steadfast support in protecting public health and ensuring New Yorkers continue to have access to science-based healthcare.”
Assemblymember Erik M. Dilan said, “The Vaccine Access Act ensures that New Yorkers maintain their ability to access vaccines recommended by professional medical groups such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Physicians. With the federal CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices pursuing a rollback of recommended immunizations, this legislation is not a vaccine mandate but will ensure coverage that is crucial for New Yorkers to still be able to obtain those vaccines without facing additional out-of-pocket expenses, and I thank Governor Hochul for her forward-looking support of this legislation.”
Governor Kathy Hochul announced awards for a total of 11 transformational projects for Long Island as part of two economic development programs: the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) and NY Forward.
Seven projects were announced for the Village of Hempstead, the Round 8 winner of a $10 million DRI award and four projects were announced for the Village of Farmingdale, a Round 3 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award.
“Main streets and downtowns across our state serve as a hub for businesses to thrive and residents and visitors to come together in community, especially on Long Island,” Governor Hochul said. “These funds will allow Hempstead and Farmingdale to transform their downtowns in a way that is best suited to the needs of the community and region and enriches their culture.”
DRI and NY Forward communities developed Strategic Implementation Plans (SIPs), which create a vision for the future of their downtown and identify and recommend a slate of complementary, transformative and implementable projects that support that vision. The SIPs are guided by a Local Planning Committee (LPC) comprised of local and regional leaders, stakeholders and community representatives, with the assistance of an assigned consultant and DOS staff, all of whom conduct extensive community outreach and engagement when determining projects. The projects selected for funding from the SIP were identified as having the greatest potential to jumpstart revitalization and generate new opportunities for long-term growth.
The Village of Hempstead
Hempstead’s Main Street is the social, retail and civic heart of the community, serving as a key destination for the Village, Town and County. Its strategic location offers walkable access to essential transit services, commercial corridors and cultural institutions, including restaurants, and the Nassau County African American Museum. Signature buildings with distinctive facades line the street, adding to its character and enhancing its unique visual identity. With a vibrant mix of arts, culture and retail, Hempstead seeks to transform its Main Street into a thriving hub of activity, community and commerce. Specific community goals include creating a broad mix of housing opportunities, increasing business and service offerings, enhancing cultural arts and fostering recreation and entertainment.
The 7 Hempstead DRI projects, totaling $9.7 million, include:
Implement an Innovation Hub at 150 Bedell Street ($475,000): Transform an unimproved commercial space within the new Estella Housing mixed-use development into a state-of-the-art training hub, providing the community a resource to upgrade their professional skillset.
Construct Infill Mixed-Use Development at 257 Main Street ($1,900,000): Construct a new mixed-use infill housing development on an underutilized lot, creating multi-family housing and retail space in the northern portion of downtown Hempstead.
Establish Small Project Grant Program to Support Capital Improvements ($600,000): Create a grant fund to assist small businesses and property owners to bolster interior and exterior renovations throughout the downtown area.
Install a Pedestrian Plaza at Helen Keller Way ($1,100,000): Revamp the Helen Keller Way intersection between Cooper Square and Denton Green Park by creating a protected area for pedestrians, providing a space for community programming and other recreational activities.
Build Transit-Oriented Development and Greenway at Block 39 ($880,000): Transform several underutilized lots adjacent to the existing LIRR Station to create multi-family housing, as well as ground-floor retail and a green corridor.
Develop a Workforce Center in Hempstead Bank Building at 54 Main Street ($1,250,000): Renovate the existing Hempstead Bank Building into a vibrant office space and workforce development center while providing building facade and sidewalk improvements.
Implement Main Street Streetscape and Pedestrian Improvements ($3,495,000): Address critical pedestrian and traffic safety improvements along Fulton Street between Main and Washington Streets while also enhancing the pedestrian experience with new and upgraded amenities such as improved lighting, seating, and planters.
The Village of Farmingdale
The Village of Farmingdale’s downtown is a compact area mixed with small parcels and dense building coverage, mixed land uses and charming architecture. It is situated among some of the most popular tourist destinations in New York State. Due to the Village’s characteristics, Farmingdale is focusing on projects that will yield dramatic and positive effects, thereby advancing an active downtown with a strong sense of place. The Village seeks to attract new businesses, encourage a diverse population, improve downtown living and quality of life and enhance the pedestrian walkability and cyclability of the downtown.
The 4 Farmingdale NY Forward projects, totaling $4.5 million, include:
Upgrade Streetscapes, Signage, and Village Green ($729,000): Address critical pedestrian and aesthetic needs throughout the downtown to enhance safety, connectivity, and the overall sense of place in the downtown area.
Construct New Performing Arts Center in Downtown Farmingdale ($3,000,000): Construct a performing arts center on a municipal parking lot near Main Street to provide a year-round venue for cultural and educational events.
Improve Pedestrian Safety on Fulton Street ($564,000): Implement pedestrian safety and traffic calming improvements along Fulton Street at the intersections of Main Street and Staples Street, which serve as key gateways to the downtown business district.
Implement a Small Project Fund in Downtown Farmingdale ($207,000): Establish a Small Project Fund to assist property and business owners with improvements that enhance the appearance and functionality of the downtown.
To receive funding from either the DRI or NY Forward program, localities must be certified under Governor Hochul’s Pro-Housing Communities Program, which recognizes and rewards municipalities actively working to unlock their housing potential and encourages others to follow suit. After becoming certified, localities have exclusive access to up to $750 million in discretionary State funding, including DRI and NY Forward. Since the launch of the Pro-Housing Communities Program, funds awarded to Pro-Housing Communities throughout the state have supported up to 20,000 more homes. To date, more than 410 communities across New York have been certified, including the Villages of Hempstead and Farmingdale.
Many of the projects funded through the DRI and NY Forward support Governor Hochul’s affordability agenda. The DRI has invested in the creation of more than 5,000 units of housing – more than 2,000 of which (40 percent) are affordable or workforce housing. The programs committed $9 million to 12 projects that provide affordable or free childcare and childcare worker training. The DRI and NY Forward have also invested in the creation of public parks, public art – such as murals and sculptures – and art, music and cultural venues that provide free outdoor recreation and entertainment opportunities.
New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “Long Island’s downtowns are vital hubs of economic activity and community life, and these latest investments will help them continue to grow and thrive. Through the DRI and NY Forward, we are supporting projects that strengthen local economies, expand housing opportunities and create vibrant, accessible public spaces. Each project reflects the unique character of its community while advancing smart, sustainable growth across the region. We are proud to partner with these incredible Long Island communities as they bring their bold visions for revitalization to life.”
Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward are helping Long Island communities turn locally driven plans into projects that create housing, support small businesses, strengthen workforce development and make downtowns more vibrant and accessible. These investments in Hempstead and Farmingdale will advance walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods, improve public spaces and support the kind of long-term economic growth that benefits residents, businesses and visitors alike.”
Empire State Development Board Chair Kevin Law said, “Long Island’s downtowns are among our region’s greatest assets, and these projects reflect the power of targeted state investment to support local priorities and unlock new opportunities. From new housing and retail space in Hempstead to cultural amenities and pedestrian improvements in Farmingdale, these awards will help create more connected, active and economically resilient communities across Long Island.”
New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward, HCR is helping communities across Long Island transform their downtowns into stronger economic and residential centers. In Hempstead and Farmingdale, these investments will create new housing opportunities, support small businesses, strengthen workforce development and enhance vibrant public spaces that bring residents and visitors together. By tying these projects to the Pro-Housing Communities Program, we are ensuring that revitalization and housing growth go hand in hand, helping communities expand affordability, attract new investment and build more resilient futures. Together, these projects are creating dynamic, walkable downtowns
where people can live, work and thrive for generations to come.”
Assemblymember Noah Burroughs said, “On behalf of the residents and businesses of the Village of Hempstead, we extend our sincere gratitude to governor Kathy Hochul for her leadership and commitment in awarding $10 million toward our Downtown Revitalization Initiative. This transformative investment is both greatly appreciated and deeply needed as we continue the important work of enhancing the image, economic vitality, and overall quality of life within the largest village in New York. Governor Hochul’s support represents a major step forward in helping us reimagine and strengthen our downtown corridor, creating a more vibrant, welcoming, and prosperous future for generations to come.”
Village of Hempstead Mayor Waylyn Hobbs said “Governor Hochul’s announcement about funding for transformational projects on Long Island is a real game-changer. This is another step for the Village of Hempstead in our continued work towards revitalization. This is an investment not only in our infrastructure and economic development, but, more importantly, in the great people of our Village. I am so grateful for Governor Hochul’s leadership and our state partners for their aid in ensuring Hempstead continues its path toward a brighter future through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative.”
Village of Farmingdale Mayor Ralph Ekstrand said “As a Downtown that has gone through incredible revitalization, Farmingdale Village is always very appreciative and enthusiastic to work with New York State on these Programs & Grants. The improvements from being part of the $4.5 Million NY Forward Award; are well recognized! And we utilize all these opportunities to continue to improve our Village and make it a better place for our residents and visitors. And the evidence is everywhere, certainly a boost to our local businesses and especially since Farmingdale Village was voted Best Downtown 11 out of the last 12 years in the Four Leaf Best of LI contest. We thank NYS and Governor Kathy Hochul!”
Nassau County Legislator Olena Nicks said “I am beyond thrilled for the seven projects selected for the Village of Hempstead. This is a monumental moment for our downtown and for the hard-working families and small businesses who have made the Village the wonderful place it is. Hempstead has long deserved this level of investment and Governor Hochul‘s commitment to transforming Long Island from the ground up is exactly the kind of action that changes lives.”
Nassau County Legislator Scott Davis said, “Lasting, sustainable revitalization is built from the ground up to reflect a community’s vision for a brighter and more prosperous future for all. As a Hempstead Village native myself, I am thrilled to see how my hometown continues to embrace these endeavors, and I am deeply appreciative to Governor Hochul and New York State for providing the resources that will help propel this important work.”
LIREDC Co-Chairs Linda Armyn and Dr. Kimberly R. Cline said, “The LIREDC is proud to support projects that reflect the vision, character and needs of Long Island communities. These investments in Hempstead and Farmingdale will help strengthen downtown corridors, expand housing and business opportunities, enhance public spaces and support the cultural and economic activity that makes our region thrive. We are excited to see these locally driven projects take shape and help create more dynamic, welcoming downtowns across the region.”
About the Downtown Revitalization Initiative The Downtown Revitalization Initiative was created in 2016 to accelerate and expand the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in all ten regions of the state to serve as centers of activity and catalysts for investment. Led by the Department of State with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal and NYSERDA, the DRI represents an unprecedented and innovative “plan-then-act” strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation and results in compact, walkable downtowns that are a key ingredient to helping New York State rebuild its economy from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to achieving the State’s bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles. Through nine rounds, the DRI will have awarded a total of $1 billion to 101 communities across every region of the State. The Governor has proposed another $100 million for the program in her 2026-2027 Executive Budget.
About the NY Forward Program First announced as part of the 2022 Budget, Governor Hochul created the NY Forward program to build on the momentum created by the DRI. The program works in concert with the DRI to accelerate and expand the revitalization of smaller and rural downtowns throughout the State so that all communities can benefit from the State’s revitalization efforts, regardless of size, character, needs and challenges.
NY Forward communities are supported by a professional planning consultant and team of State agency experts led by DOS to develop a Strategic Investment Plan that includes a slate of transformative, complementary and readily implementable projects. NY Forward projects are appropriately scaled to the size of each community; projects may include building renovation and redevelopment, new construction or creation of new or improved public spaces and other projects that enhance specific cultural and historical qualities that define and distinguish the small-town charm that defines these municipalities. Through four rounds, the NY Forward program will have awarded a total of $400 million to 77 communities across every region of the State. The Governor has proposed another $100 million for the program in her 2026-2027 Executive Budget.
State Moves to Defend Major Offshore Wind Project That Will Power 600,000 New York Homes
Sunrise Wind Will Support Thousands of Jobs, Strengthen New York’s Energy Grid, and Advance State Climate Goals
Governor Kathy Hochul and New York Attorney General Letitia James moved to intervene in a lawsuit that threatens the successful completion of the Sunrise Wind Project, a major offshore wind development that will deliver clean energy to New York, support thousands of jobs, and strengthen the state’s electric grid. The lawsuit, filed by Green Oceans and other plaintiffs in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, seeks to vacate federal approvals for the project and could delay or block construction. Governor Hochul and Attorney General James are seeking to intervene to defend New York’s interests in the project and ensure that Sunrise Wind can move forward.
“Offshore wind projects like Sunrise Wind will not only provide needed clean energy that will help our environment, but also create good-paying union jobs, benefit our local economies, and help secure our energy independence,” Governor Hochul said. “We successfully fought the Trump administration’s multiple attempts to stop construction on this fully–permitted project and expect that we will prevail against this lawsuit. While Washington Republicans are hell bent on taking us backward, here in New York we remain committed to protecting our clean energy future.”
New York State Attorney General Letitia James said, “Contrary to the president’s claims, wind energy is essential for our economy, our environment, and our electric grid. Sunrise Wind will power hundreds of thousands of homes, support thousands of good-paying jobs, and help protect New Yorkers from pollution and climate change. This administration has already tried to shut down Sunrise Wind once, and we will not leave the fate of this critical project in its hands.”
The Sunrise Wind Project is a 924-megawatt offshore wind project that is expected to generate enough electricity to power 600,000 New York homes. The project is expected to begin delivering power to New York’s electric grid this year and become fully operational next year. In March of this year, Green Oceans and other plaintiffs filed a lawsuit seeking to block construction and vacate the federal government’s approval of the project. If successful, the lawsuit could delay completion or even force cancellation of the project, leaving New York with significant costs and none of the project’s benefits. Given this administration’s past statements and actions opposing wind energy, including its repeated attempts to halt wind energy projects, Governor Hochul and Attorney General James are intervening to ensure New York’s interests are fully defended.
Governor Hochul and Attorney General James argue that New York has significant economic, environmental, public health, and sovereign interests in the successful completion of Sunrise Wind. The project is expected to provide more than $875 million in economic benefits to New York by the end of its third year of operations, with additional benefits to follow. The project also supports more than 3,500 jobs in construction, steel manufacturing, shipbuilding, and operations, including many high-paying union jobs.
Sunrise Wind will also help strengthen New York’s electric grid at a time of growing energy demand. New York’s energy needs are expected to increase as the state electrifies transportation and buildings, and consumers are already experiencing rising electric bills. The Sunrise Wind Project will add nearly 1,000 megawatts of energy capacity to the grid, helping reduce New York’s reliance on fossil fuels and improve grid reliability, particularly on Long Island.
This federal administration has consistently opposed offshore wind projects, imposed a stop-work order on Sunrise Wind, and paused federal approvals for wind projects more broadly. While Attorney General James has secured several court orders blocking these actions – including, most recently, a preliminary injunction ensuring Sunrise Wind can continue construction – the Trump administration’s record raises serious concerns that it may not fully defend the project’s federal approvals. Governor Hochul and Attorney General James are moving to intervene to ensure that New York’s interests are protected.
By Karen Rubin, editor@news-photos-features.com, news-photos-features.com
An Illinois woman who came to New York City expressly for the TD 5 Boro Bike Tour on Sunday, May 3, 2026, was gleeful, saying “you get to see New York in a way you never would otherwise.”
So true. That first burst through the arch, up 6th Avenue through Greenwich Village, up to Radio City Music Hall, then into Central Park, and through Harlem, with Cheerleaders and bands greeting you at each section, is so thrilling.
You would never get to ride down the FDR Highway, through tunnels (a surreal experience), over the Queensborough (59th Street) Bridge, seeing the famous Manhattan skyline on one side, and the iconic Silvercup Bakery sign on the other, then some of the most spectacular scenes of the ride as you ride the downward spiral from the bridge into Queens, and through neighborhoods in the Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn and Staten Island.
It is absolutely thrilling to have all the traffic rerouted for us, so we can ride 40 miles of New York City roads car-free – taking over the FDR, the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway, the Verrazano Bridge. You feel this awesome sense of power and importance (not to mention Mayor Zohran Mamdani made history as the first sitting mayor to ride the whole tour, but every year evokes such a sense of empowerment).
What you see is the spirit, the diversity, the vitality of New York City – especially the diversity – a brilliant tapestry. The artful, the whimsical, the humor, the compassion.
It is important to know, too, that hundreds and hundreds of these riders are riding to support a charity. NY State Senator John Liu, riding for Live on NY, which promotes organ donation, pointed to the number of charities supported by the ride. The TD 5 Boro Bike tour is the largest charity bike ride in the world.
The experience completes after the finish line just at the end of the Verrazano Bridge, at Fort Wadsworth (where we each get medals – this isn’t a race, it’s a tour and a shared community experience). But we’re not done! Then we ride four miles further along Staten Island’s waterfront to the ferry, with more beautiful scenes (if you have time, visit Alice Austen’s historic house – she was an important photographer), climaxing with a ride on the Staten Island ferry that makes you feel like you are really cruising somewhere (try to get a position at the front of the boat so you can see the views, especially of the Statue of Liberty).
For many of us (the ride draws as many as 32,000 from all over the country and all over the world), we are still not done, but get to bike on the Hudson River Greenway one of the most beautiful recreational trails anywhere. There is so much along this gorgeous trail (which btw is the southernmost portion of New York’s Empire State Trail that extends all the way up to Canada) – you see the Freedom Tower looming over the skyline (if you have time, veer off and visit the World Trade Center 9/11 memorial park), stunning parks, playgrounds (a new one has a massive whale you climb through), even a sand beach, restaurants, and the incomparable City Islands park, a destination of its own). If you ride further north, you get to the Intrepid Air & Sea Museum (there’s a space shuttle you can visit, and a submarine!) and up to the George Washington Bridge. But I cut off at 34th street, enroute to Penn Station for the train ride to Long Island, where I chalk up a total of 50 miles for the day.
We all finish so impressed with how extremely organized the bike tour is – with some 1500 volunteers who so cheerfully direct traffic, stop traffic to allow pedestrians to cross (putting their own selves in danger), hand out snacks, and are on hand to help with emergencies.
“For one day, the streets of this great city belong to cyclists. Whether this is your first ride or your 20th, you are part of a tradition that celebrates the joy, freedom and community that cycling brings to our lives,” Bike New York President & CEO Ken Podziba, stated. “From the excitement at the start to the moment you cross the finish line, the ride offers countless opportunities to create lasting memories-with friends, family, fellow riders and the city itself.
“The TD Five Boro Bike Tour is more than just an unforgettable journey through all five boroughs. It is the only opportunity each year to experience New York City from the seat of a bicycle – traveling through its streets, highways, bridges and neighborhoods without cars, while riding alongside thousands of fellow cyclists from across the country and around the world.”
Mike Flynn, NYC Department of Transportation Commissioner, stated, ”A ride like this will change the way a person thinks about New York City. On this rare occasion, bike bells and the cheers of cyclists replace honking cars, and exhaust fumes that typically choke some of our most beautiful public spaces. Every year, the TD Five Boro Bike Tour gives cyclists a rare chance to ride New York City’s most iconic routes, from Wall Street to the Verrazzano Narrows Bridge, car free… nothing compares to 40 miles of car-free streets.”
This year’s ride was historic since it is the first time the sitting mayor – Mayor Zohran Mamdani – actually joined the ride – a remarkable show of support (some people reported seeing him on the route).
Mayor Mamdani praised those who have “brought back the love of cycling across our city,” and credited NYC Department of Transportation Commissioner Mike Flynn for “partnering to make it easier to be a cyclist in New York City and to find cycling across the five boroughs. I’m so excited to being here with all of you.”
Mayor Mamdani stated, “New Yorkers deserve to be safe no matter how they commute – whether they bike, use mass transit, walk or drive, Our administration is committed to delivering genuine street safety by advancing critical projects, including implementing parking protected bike lanes and upgrading or redesigning existing infrastructure to support cyclists. Bike New York advances our mission by offering free bike education.
“Every year its cycling tour across the five boroughs, the largest charitable ride in the world, gives tens of thousands d of participants the chance to exercise and explore new corners of our global metropolis while raising funds for a variety of nonprofit groups. I applaud everyone associated with this energetic event for their efforts to advocate for our cycling community and encourage active lifestyles. Together, we will keep our streets accessible and secure for all.”
The mayor set off, flanked by Bike New York President & CEO Ken Podziba, NYC Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, NYC DoT Commissioner Mike Flynn, State Senator John Liu, and NYC Parks Commissioner Tricia Shimamura.
Here are more photo highlights from the 2026 TD Five Boro Bike Tour:
Bike New York’s mission is to empower New Yorkers to transform their lives and their communities through bicycling and advocate for more safe cycling routes. “Our vision is to increase ridership, to empower youth to lead healthy, productive lives, to remove barriers to cycling, and to advocate for and expand services to reach more New Yorkers.”
The proceeds from the Bike Tour fund programs that transform lives through bicycling – from workforce development initiatives that train justice-involved New Yorkers for careers in the bike industry, to the largest free bike education program of its kind in the world that help thousands of people each year learn to ride safely and confidently. The tour also helps advance Bike New York’s advocacy efforts to create safer, more equitable streets with more space for bicyclists and pedestrians.
In addition to the TD Five Boro Bike Tour, other popular programs include the Twin Lights Ride, the Discover Hudson Valley Ride, and local rides (see: https://www.bike.nyc/events/)
Bike New York also offers an innovative Recycle-a-Bicycle program, averaging 1,800 salvaged bicycles a year, diverting 45,000 pounds of waste from NYC’s landfills. The bikes, that begin as donations, are sold fully refurbished, with proceeds from sales and full service repairs directly supporting its education programs.
Bike New York’s Bike Path Program trains previously justice-involved individuals to become certified Bike Mechanics for Motivate, the operator of Citi Bike, the nation’s most extensive bike-share program, with 33,000 bikes and over 1,800 stations across metro NYC. Bike Path is a 3-week training program where mechanics are trained to repair regular bikes and Citi Bike’s electric and traditional bicycle fleets. In 2024 the program trained and saw 45 people be hired as Bike Mechanics at Motivate. The Bike Path Bike Mechanic Training & Employment Program has a 98% job placement rate. One of those “graduates” of the program, now an ambassador, addressed the riders.
Thousands strong came out for a rally in Washington Square Park, Manhattan, and march support unions, workers and the ideals of a pluralistic, diverse society – one of 3,000 May Day actions nationwide, a continuation of the anti-Trump resistance movements. More than an annual demonstration for union, workers’ rights and economic justice, the protests manifested ire against the Iran War and ICE, the attacks on civil and voting rights, protecting immigrants, making the rich pay their fair share of taxes and themes of the No Kings/Hands Off! Movements.
No War. No ICE. No Billionaires, read the banners behind the speakers.
The headliner was undoubtedly Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
“Union strong is more than a slogan it is a practice of solidarity,” he declared, standing under the famous Washington Square arch.
“Workers have won the rights that are taken for granted today – 40 hour week, the weekend, overtime pay, minimum wage, social security workplace safety standards – these have all been won by the people before us.
“Yet we know those rights are not inevitable. We have to work together to not just protect them, but to advance that same agenda,” Mamdani said. “Our city hall is committed to doing all we can to put working people right at the heart of that agenda.”
Among the actions – not words – his administration has taken within the first 100 days:
Delivered millions of dollars to workers in small businesses ripped off by mega corporations
Appointed the first deputy mayor for economic justice, Julie Su
Stood alongside nurses on the picket line
“And it is why we continue to fight for those – deliver universal childcare, faster buses, cheaper groceries, protecting from ICE and yes, working to tax the wealthiest and most profitable corporations in New York City.”
He added, “We know that one of the best ways to uplift worker power is to stand with our unions. A union town is union strong. Union strong is more than just a slogan it is a practice of solidarity.
“Today we will show what solidarity means, a people united, organized cannot be defeated,” Mamdani declared to cheers.
More than 60 unions and organizations, including NYC Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO, New York Immigration Coalition, participated in what is International Workers’ Day, which was one of some 3,000 across the country.
Protecting immigrants against the Trump Administration’s cruel policies was a strong theme, with several calling for the state to pass Governor Kathy Hochul’s New York for All legislation, establishing protections from federal authorities.
The May Day Strong protest represented union workers across a spectrum including teamsters, teachers, health workers, construction workers, musicians, stage and film workers, hospitality and gaming workers.
Notably, though despite being at the doorstep of New York University, the preponderance of people attending the rally were seniors. Among them, 98-year old World War II Navy veteran Arthur A. Wasserman and 87-year old Kathleen Hager, who expressed concern that in their lifetime, they have never felt the country at such risk.
Here are photo highlights from the May Day Strong rally and march in New York City:
The “Cost of Blakeman” tour through New York State launched here in Nassau County, Long Island, on the steps of the Executive Building where Bruce Blakeman presides as County Executive, by the people “who know Blakeman best.”
They gathered to expose Blakeman’s record as County Executive – or the lack of it – and how he has prioritized appeasing Trump above working to benefit constituents.
“No one knows better than us how important it is to keep him away as far as possible from Governor’s mansion,” declared Jay Jacobs, state and county Democratic Committee chair. “We are taking this message across New York State because we know his record.”
“He has made the county less safe, more expensive for all, in hopes of making Trump happy.”
Blakeman backed Trump’s tariffs and downplays price hikes as a result of the tariffs and the Iran War, and raising property taxes indirectly because, despite his campaign promise, has done nothing to fix assessment system.
Jacobs accused Blakeman of abusing power by creating an armed private militia.
Blakeman has taken to opposing anything that Governor Hochul has proposed, from reforming the bail system to be more just (disregarding the changes to insure violent and repeat offenders are not released), to addressing the crisis in affordable housing, to her gun violence prevention legislation after the Supreme Court knocked down New York’s 100-year old gun control law, to challenging congestion pricing in New York City to improve air quality, reduce traffic and raise necessary funds for capital improvements to mass transit.
When Trump pulled billions from appropriated funding for the $16 billion Hudson Tunnel Project (hinting the money would be restored if New York renamed Penn Station for him), Blakeman didn’t
When Trump pulled millions of federal spending for local law enforcement and community violence prevention programs, Blakeman refused to a lift finger, but Hochul got the money back.
Under Blakeman – who interestingly has always made crime his Number One campaign issue – violent crime has gone up, spiked to the highest levels in decades, Jacobs said, “and excuses too”, despite violent crime rates dropping across the state and nation.
“Nassau declared ‘America’s safest suburb’ was bestowed on Blakeman’s predecessor, Democrat Laura Curran,” he noted.
But under Blakeman, Nassau County Police Department is lower in numbers, detective ranks lower (though pay has been significantly increased).
Blakeman has diverted County detectives to work with ICE for deportation, rather than focus on keeping us safe, and holds a press photo op every time alleged gang members are arrested (most recently, touting that 9 out of 35 people arrested were gang members). He has claimed the county arrested 2,000 criminal migrants, without noting that they were not adjudicated as guilty of crime. Among them, a long-time Great Neck resident, Tomas Orellana, who for years ran the railroad station café, a father of eight who the community is rallying around to provide support, while he was transferred to a detention center in Louisiana where it is difficult for him to obtain legal counsel.
Trump and the Republicans tax bill caused 500,000 New Yorkers to lose healthcare, and as governor, Blakeman has indicated he wants to further gut Medicaid and New York health care, while Hochul has been working to expand access to health care.
“He won’t disagree with Trump privately or publicly, ever. He finds new ways to praise Trump. He couldn’t even condemn Trump for bashing the Pope.
“His entire record is that he has done absolutely nothing…We need a governor who works for us, not to keep Trump happy. Hochul has been laser focused on her Affordability Agenda” – for example, working to build affordable housing, lower car insurance rates, provide child care, and give residents a Trump tariffs rebate. She has fought to claw back the federal funds – such as halting construction of the Hudson Gateway Tunnel and offshore wind projects that are nearing completion – that Trump unilaterally rescinded out of pique or to extort the state to enact his policies. Hochul is laser focused on her Affordability agenda.
“Hochul will make sure that Blakeman adds to his long, long track record of losing elections at every level,” Jacobs declared.
Adrienne Adams, former speaker of the New York City Council who is running with Hochul as Lt. Governor, also accused Blakeman of being 100% MAGA, costing families money while putting safety at risk.
He’s not just supporting Trump, he is promising to enact similar policies at the same level.
Trump stripped 500,000 New Yorkers of healthcare and Blakeman promises further cuts.
Blakeman supports tariffs that hurt New Yorkers while Hochul is demanding refunds to keep money in your pocket.
She is fighting for ICE accountability while Blakeman is fighting for a private MAGA militia [mimicking the unaccountable ICE agents].
He saw Trump go after New York for public safety, infrastructure, child care funds. “But from Blakeman only crickets. He’s not fighting back like Hochul.
He promises Trump-style leadership as governor. “New Yorkers know exactly what that means – and they want no part.
They want a governor to stand up for them. Hochul takes on trump and wins.
“Hochul is getting results, she has the receipts.”
The choice is a governor who fights for you or a MAGA politician who follows trump.
Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whittonnoted, “The past 4 years I’ve had the distinct challenge of trying to work with Blakeman. [His tenure is defined by] headlines, photo ops and political ambition. You don’t see the executive unless there is a camera.”
Democrats, who are relegated to a minority by gerrymandered districting by the Republican Supermajority, have put forward legislation to cap the gas tax, establish a 311 system to reduce pressure on 911, which she said, Blakeman ignored.
Terry Clark of Moms Demand Action, part of Everytown which advocates for gun violence prevention, railed against one of Blakeman’s pet achievements, the creation of a private militia.
“A private militia poses danger to law enforcement, neighborhoods, creates confusion, undermines trust, puts communities at risk. There should be no reason to guess who is charge, who is trained. When lines blurred, violence escalates. It is a matter of accountability and public trust. We deserve to know who the trained professionals are.”
Blakeman has argued for the need for his militia in the event of some emergency. But she noted, “we already have community response teams” who are trained for such emergencies.
“When lives are on line, clarity saves lives, confusion costs lives.”
Blakeman has a knee jerk response to anything that Hochul and the Democrats do. When the Supreme Court overturned New York’s 100-year old gun control law, he came out against Hochul’s newly crafted gun violence prevention law.
“The priorities are never about Nassau County, always about Bruce Blakeman,” DeRiggi-Whitton said. “From the start, he has been more interested in auditioning for a role in the Trump administration” so has cheered tariffs, ICE enforcement, and has hosted Education Secretary Linda McMahon at Massapequa high school in decrying a state mandate to replace disrespectful (and inaccurate) Native American mascots at Nassau County schools, and recently hosted Treasury Secretary Bessent for a business roundtable.
“Blakeman has spent four years chasing attention rather than results,” DeRiggi-Whittonsaid.
Nearly half of the reserves have been spent down, she said, asserting wasteful spending and cronyism, like the millions of dollars handed to outside legal services.
Instead of spending the opioid settlement funds on programs, Blakeman has used the interest revenue to avoid having to raise taxes “while programs are desperately in need of funding,” she said.
The Nassau University Medical Center crisis was so severe – financial mismanagement leading to a massive $1.4 billion deficit, executive corruption allegations, and FBI scrutiny over diverted Medicaid funds – Governor Hochul and the state legislature executed a hostile takeover of the hospital’s board, clashing with Blakeman.
“I don’t see how Blakeman helps people. He is loyal to Trump, even after his ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ gutted health care, by $2 trillion, said John Sabo, a healthcare worker and 1199 SEIU delegate who said “the hospital where I work is the hospital where I was born.”
“As a health care worker, I see workers laid off, hospitals closing, health care premiums shooting up so that people pay more or don’t have. To what end? To line the pockets of billionaires, give money for ICE to terrorize neighborhoods and conduct warrantless searches, detaining on a whim, mothers and children. If you just look like a targeted group, you can be detained.
“Blakeman is loyal to Trump, not to people at health risk or who fear ICE will detain, or workers who have to work two jobs to get by. We can do better. Vote right in November.”
Blakeman’s push for the Sands casino project despite community opposition (which Sands ultimately withdrew), and push away of a proposed NYU Langone complex lost the county $7 billion in economic opportunity, DeRiggi-Whittonasserted.
Another example: Blakeman diverted $15 million in tourism promotion funding, taking $5 million for a television ad campaign in places like Oklahoma which promoted himself, and took $10 million the county had paid for years to the professional tourism marketing organization, Discover Long Island, awarding the tourism promotion contract instead to a home-based brand marketer with no experience or connections in tourism marketing.
While Long Island experienced a boom in tourism in 2024, generating $945 million in local and state tax revenue, and a record $7.9 billion in total spending, it was Suffolk County, not Nassau that accounted for the vast majority of the increase, while Nassau actually had a decline. Since Nassau County withdrew from Discover Long Island and redirected its $1 million annual tourism contract to the private marketing firm, Nassau’s tourism receipts declined by 0.4% in 2024, while neighboring Suffolk County experienced a 7% increase. Additionally, the split cost the region $500,000 in annual matching funds from New York State’s “I LOVE NY” program.
Blakeman has taken no action to boost economic development or invest in infrastructure to boost the county’s climate resilience, or address the epidemic of traffic accidents and deaths. What improvements and projects that have been underway have mostly been funded by the state, through such programs as Downtown Revitalization Initiative, grants through the state’s Environmental and Climate bonds, and Department of Transportation grant programs, and while his Comptroller (and possible successor Elaine Phillips) recently attacked state Democrats for sending $9.6 billion to Albany while receiving $4.8 billion in State funding, it is questionable whether the County ever applied for grants.
Partisanship, cronyism and self-service define Blakeman’s tenure.
“Now Blakeman wants to run the state. His arrogance is only matched by [incompetence]. Hochul’s leadership is dedicated to serving all – not just political allies and cronies – and governing seriously,” DeRiggi-Whitton stated.
Bruce Blakeman took only two questions during his hastily called presser to rebut the rally speakers, but refused to answer a question about his economic development accomplishments and how much he has invested out of the nearly billion dollars held in reserve – the interest revenue used to avoid raising taxes – but indicated that he would bring the policies from the county to the state.
He blamed high utility costs on Hochul – not on Trump attempting to cancel wind power projects nearing completion – while mimicking trump’s claim of “clean energy scam”, and vowed to overturn bans on drilling in the Marcellus shale. (Note: consumer’s problem isn’t a lack of availability of fossil fuel, because the cost is set on world market. The USA already produces more than it consumes and has become the #1 exporter.)
He complained about the county sending billions more to state than the county receives back, but there is a question about whether the county has bothered to seek grants for infrastructure, water projects, climate resilience and mitigation, or road safety.
Meanwhile, Blakeman did not bother to show up for an announcement by Governor Kathy Hochul of $150 million in state funding toward a $430 million New York BioGenesis Park, a world-leading specialized cell and gene therapy innovation hub located in Lake Succes (actually telling the Governor never to set foot in Nassau again) and immediately walked out of a ceremony before Hochul appeared to announce the completion of a $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant in Westbury.
Instead of offering any economic development achievements, he derided Hochul that the budget has been late for the fifth time.
He stressed as his major accomplishment removing 2,000 undocumented migrants, who he claimed were criminal rapists, gang members, gun traffickers (though it is unclear how they were adjudicated, since there are local groups that have monitored how people are being snatched off the street).
“We are the most overtaxed, overregulated state in the United States, 49 out of 50 in economic development, utility costs are 70% higher thanb the national average,” he claimed. “Hochul has made us less affordable, less safe,” despite data that shows the state’s crime rate declining.
“The last 4 years we have had budgets on time, surplus without raising tax. I cancelled the $150 million tax increase put in by my predecessor, and got 7 bond upgrades.
As for the unspent opioid funds that are being used to avoid needing to raise taxes, he claimed he would not do what Hochul does, throw money at programs and also uses the opioid fund interest to balance the budget.
When asked if the voters who put Republicans in power nationally and in Nassau County, are “losing faith” because of pocket book issues, tariffs, the Iran War, Blakeman explained away affordability problems using a phrase that mimics Trump, “The issue is with Hochul and green energy. She has been governor for four years and we have less affordable utility rates. Why aren’t we drilling in the Marcellus Shale formation, one of the largest reserves? That will cut utility costs.
“I would end green energy scam, open Marcellus Shale to drilling,” Blakeman stated.
Asked about the Trump tariffs impacting what New Yorkers spend, Blakeman pivoted to again attack Hochul for increasing energy costs for New Yorkers. (Actually, the increases in New York are being felt nationally, largely due to increased demand from new data centers, advanced manufacturing, and residential electrification, as well as some added fees to fund the transition to clean renewable energy and meet carbon-emission targets, but Trump sought to cancel clean energy projects which will increase supply and lower utility rates, and it is unlikely that Blakeman, if governor, would move forward with the state’s Clean Energy programs.)
As for “international affairs” – the war with Iran which has caused global energy shortage, price hikes and is threatening global recession – Blakeman mouthed the Trump administration line, saying “If in 9/11 they were willing to take out 3000 New Yorkers, if they had a nuke, they would take out 3 million. They hate Americans and have no respect for human life. I am in favor of the Iran War if it ensures Iran will not get a nuke.”
This provided another example of how Blakeman falls into line, recalling when he hosted a rally and blasted President Biden for not expelling Russians from their compound at Glen Cove, Long Island, held a photo op in which he gave Ukrainians a proclamation, but no longer supports providing aid to Ukraine to push out Russia in keeping with Trump favoring Putin.
Local Save Kings Point Park activists worry that New York State legislators will try to slip through alienation legislation to take 2 ½ acres of parkland for a private parking lot, in the dead of night in June, just before the end of the Legislature’s session
An estimated 200 people gathered under cloudy skies on Sunday, April 19, to protest the taking of 7 ½ acres of old-growth forest and wetlands in a 173-acre preserve that for decades has been a public park – an astonishing number considering the population of the Great Neck, New York, peninsula.
The taking of the land in two separate but related moves – 2 ½ acres for a 397-space private parking lot and private pool to serve a massive, four-story United Mashadi Jewish Community of America (UMJCA) center and five acres for a Village of Kings Point public works facility which is said to also include a bunker for Kings Point residents to seek emergency shelter – smacks of secret dealings among elected officials of the Village of Great Neck, the Village of Kings Point, and the Great Neck Park District, along with the state representatives Senator Jack Martins and Assemblyman Daniel J. Norber (both Republicans).
The 173-acre Kings Point Park is in the Manhasset Bay Watershed, 90% is protected wetlands, and the largest remaining pristine forest and wetlands on the Great Neck peninsula. A public parkland for the past 90 years managed by the Great Neck Park District under a lease arrangement with the Village of Kings Point, its wetlands, trees and forest help protect the peninsula from storm surges and flooding. Its creek feeds into Manhasset Bay. The Peninsula, which depends on sole source aquifer for drinking water, has been under threat of saltwater intrusion.
The “alienation” of the 2 ½ acres – requiring the state Legislature and Governor’s approval – was initially passed by the state Senate literally in the dead of night at the end of last year’s state Legislative session but as a result of an outcry by activists, the legislation never made it out of committee in the Assembly.
Subsequently, the community, aided with pro-bono legal representation, filed an Article 78 arguing the required SEQRA (State Environment Quality Review Act) process was inadequate. After the lawsuit was filed, the Village of Kings Point eventually withdrew the request for alienation.
However, quietly, still without public hearings or transparency, the village of Kings Point hired an environmental consultant, and the community is worried they will try again to slip legislation through in the dead of night before the end of this year’s legislative session in June.
Save Kings Point Park activists gathered on the grassy section adjacent to the basketball courts and playground, maintenance building and bathrooms, park parking lot and the opening to wooded trails through old-growth forest, beside a creek – all of which will be paved over for the parking lot. It is likely that the ballfields will also have to be paved over to replace the lost parking area.
The Great Neck Park District – which leases Kings Point Park from the Village at a cost of $350,000 a year, an increase from $35,000 a year in the prior lease – will then have to spend millions of dollars (actually $15 million in capital expense in the village of Kings Point including $10 million in Kings Point Park is required under the terms of the latest lease agreement) in order to build new playground, maintenance building, bathrooms and parking lot. This will likely require the loss of a major picnic area and the ballfields, at minimum, though the park district has yet to offer an actual plan.
“This is our public park, It is not for sale or for trade with private entities,” declared Nancy Sherman, one of the leaders of Save Kings Point Park group. “Kings Point Park is 90% protected wetland – they can’t build on wetlands. This has been enabled by elected officials of Village of Kings Point and Great Neck Park District, working together to make this happen. This is not about religion. If permitted, they will take public parkland, cut down hundreds of trees, destroy wildlife habitat, flora, disturb bird migration.”
Building a structure of this size – it is one of the biggest on the entire Great Neck Peninsula – required many variances from the Village of Great Neck, including for insufficient on-site parking. It would have required 200 parking spots but the variance allowed the building to have only 77 on-site because the UMJCA claimed they had two other facilities along Steamboat Road and would provide shuttle services.
While the UMJCA never publicly stated they would eventually seek 2 ½ acres from the Village of Kings Point and Kings Point Park, 2018 maps show that was the plan all along.
“So use the shuttle [as promised] and do not take any parkland,” Sherman told the gathering. “You would think Park District commissioners who are supposed to be stewards, would stand up and fight, but they are in cahoots, not standing up to protect our parks.”
Jody Kass Finkel, a leader of Concerned Citizens of NY03, the group that successfully forced the ouster of fraudster George Santos from Congress, pointed to the failure to comply with New York State’s SEQRA. SEQRA requires public hearings and transparency before going forward with legislation to take the parkland if there is significant impact. But because both Great Neck and Kings Point villages each made itself the lead agency for the building and the alienation and declared the projects would have no significant impact, they were able to skirt the public hearings required under SEQRA.
But no one believes these projects will not have significant impact. The concern is that the village of Kings Point will again deny transparency and public hearings, Kass Finkel said.
In January 2025 the village of Kings Point and UJCMA filed for permission from the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to use 2 ½ acres of the protected land for a parking lot, as a possible end run.
Robert Lincoln, who had served as Great Neck Park District commissioner for decades, said “the 2 ½ acres is more than just what we see, because what they are displacing has to go somewhere – the playground, the trail where people run, walk, cross-country ski will be cut off. Other areas will be affected because of alienation – the ballfield will probably become the park’s parking lot and maintenance building, so youth and adult programs will be affected. The picnic area, the biggest in Kings Point with running water, bathrooms, used by major organizations, will probably be displaced so more acres of woods will be lost. So there is a lot more to lose than just parking lot.
“This board of commissioners is different [from when Lincoln served]. We worked hard for transparency and open communication. There are lots of fingerprints on the daggers. It’s making me sick. We worked hard to make things better.”
Tina Bickerstaff, a certified professional geologist and Great Neck resident, pointed to the importance of Kings Point Park to the environmental health of the Peninsula and Manhasset Bay.
“It’s not just about having grass and greenspace. We need a healthy ecosystem to filter contaminants, slow erosion, and combat increased frequency of storms…We can’t continue making snap decisions without thinking about the future consequences.”
Dan Capruso, a Great Neck resident who successfully prevented the Village of Kings Point from alienating parts of Kings Point Park before, asserted, “The Village of Kings Point owns it but it is a public trust and the village is responsible to hold it for the people.”
During a walk on some of the Kings Point Park trails that will be destroyed if the parking lot is built and the village of Kings Point takes five acres for a public works building and emergency shelter (some are calling a bunker), ornithologist Stefan Perrault pointed to critically imperiled plant communities, native plant and old growth forest that would be destroyed or disrupted, and the ecosystem they support.
“There are not many of these forests left. There is not a lot of diversity but it is special because 90% is covered by imperiled plant community.” He points to 160 year old Beech tree, a 200-year-old Oak that can grow to 100 feet and Tulip trees that grow to 120 feet (a race to reach the top for sunlight), Carolina Silverbell tree that is native, but rare.
He notes that there has not much done to protect what is there – to address the invasives, and the Beech leaf disease that is threatening all the Beech trees on Long Island (it causes defoliation, eventually killing the tree after 10-15 years), the algae bloom on the stagnant creek (some is benign but some is toxic), but instead has been fixated on building new structures and facilities, like new fields and a bike trail through the park.
“Once you replace soil, the plant community is done.”
Jody Kass Finkel again challenged the village for lack of transparency in its effort to take parkland for other purposes.
“State Law requires an official investigation into the impacts of decision making – SEQRA – if a project might have significant impact. It triggers intensive investigation, wider responsibility to engage the local community, and requires transparency.”
She accused the villages of illegally segmenting the two projects – first approving the building, then alienating the 2 ½ acres – in order to avoid public engagement.
“The Villages of Kings Point and Great Neck, the Great Neck Park District and Senator Jack Martins and Assemblyman Daniel Norber tried to hide it, sneak it through last June. They are starting again and still hiding. They don’t tell us the scope, cumulative impact, or about flooding that might be caused. CCNY03 FOILed, but they ignored us. We are fighting back,” Kass Finkel said.
“It’s illegal to segment the environmental review of the impacts from this over-sized UMJCA building from the environmental review of the impacts of the parkland alienation proposed to accommodate their on-site parking needs. By chopping it up, they’re trying to claim that there’s no significant impact so they can avoid public hearings. The 2018 maps show they were always planning to build a parking lot on parkland.
“They will likely try to ram this through again in the middle of the night in June, with the hope that by hiding the impacts as long as possible, it will be fast-tracked just before the Legislature adjourns so the community won’t be able to fight it. It’s outrageous behavior by public officials who are supposed to be serving our community, not hiding their actions from us. We must continue to show up to prevent them from doing this,” Kass Finkel declared.
Making another stab at commonsense, reasonable governance, Congressmen Tom Suozzi (D-NY) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) have offered bipartisan legislation to break the impasse that has led to the longest government shutdown, caused extraordinary difficulty for Homeland Security federal workers, for travelers, left the country vulnerable after climate disaster and emergencies and exposed the nation to terror attacks at a time of war. House Speaker Mike Johnson, doing Trump’s bidding, refused to take up the compromise bill that was passed by the Senate by unanimous consent, prolonging the national misery, while Trump tried to make himself the White Knight by paying TSA (but not the others). The Coast Guard, FEMA, and counter-terrorism agents remain unpaid after more than 40 days – Karen Rubin, editor@news-photos-features.com
Washington, D.C.—Today, Congressmen Tom Suozzi (D-NY) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) unveiled their Reforming ICE and Protecting America Act, bipartisan legislation to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for Fiscal Year 2026 while enacting targeted, enforceable reforms to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The legislation comes after weeks of deadlock in Washington over immigration enforcement, during which no serious proposal emerged that both kept DHS fully funded and delivered real ICE reform.
The Reforming ICE and Protecting America Act meets both imperatives: fully funding DHS while bringing ICE in line with the standards of every other law enforcement agency in the United States.
“Government should never be brought to a standstill—certainly not when homeland security is on the line and the consequences are borne by TSA agents, Coast Guard servicemembers, FEMA personnel, frontline DHS employees, and the American people. This debate began with a legitimate call for real ICE reform, yet after weeks of political deadlock, no serious solution emerged. The right course was clear from the start: keep the Department of Homeland Security fully funded and confront the problem before us with real reform. That is precisely what this bill does. It is time to do what should have been done from the beginning: govern, reform, and protect,” said Fitzpatrick.
“The American people are fed up. The chaos at our airports was awful, the Department of Homeland Security has not been fully funded during these very dangerous times, and the people are demanding that ICE live up to the standards of all other federal law enforcement. They are sick and tired of the endless blame game and they are demanding that we work together to solve the very real problems we face,” said Suozzi. “This legislation cuts through the dysfunction. It’s rooted in common sense; let’s fund DHS, keep our country safe, and hammer out real reforms of ICE.”
Drawing on Fitzpatrick’s more than 15 years as an FBI Special Agent and Suozzi’s experience overseeing the nation’s 11th largest police department as Nassau County Executive, the legislation was developed with direct input from federal law enforcement officials and in consultation with Members of the Problem Solvers Caucus and Senate partners, including the Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee.
The Reforming ICE and Protecting America Act would:
Fully fund DHS for FY26 and keep the Department operational across its core security, disaster response, and public safety missions.
Bring ICE in line with standardized law enforcement policies through body cameras, a limitation on masks, visible identification, standardized uniforms and training, and independent investigations of officer-involved shootings.
Focus enforcement where it belongs—on violent offenders and the most serious threats to public safety.
Protect due process and prevent abuse through probable-cause and warrant requirements in key enforcement contexts, including protections against the knowing detention of U.S. citizens without probable cause.
Establish clear guardrails for sensitive locations by limiting civil immigration enforcement at schools, health care facilities, places of worship, polling places on election day, childcare facilities, and private home residences absent a warrant, except in exigent circumstances.
Protect law enforcement personnel and their families by strengthening penalties for doxxing and expanding protections for sensitive personal information.
Ensures CBP remains focused on its intended mission: securing the border.
Last week, Fitzpatrick and Suozzi announced they were developing a bipartisan path to fully fund DHS while advancing real ICE reform. The bill introduced today is the product of that effort.
Watch the Congressmen talk about their efforts here and here.
