New York City Mayor Eric Adams is actively engaged in “Public Safety Week,” bringing together various stakeholders to make a positive impact on the city's safety and the well-being of its youth. Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Chauncey Parker emphasizes the significance of these initiatives, stating that they offer more than just sports facilities; they are pathways to greater opportunities and brighter futures.

Mayor Adams' Public Safety Initiatives: Building Brighter Futures

Grand Opening of the First Indoor Baseball Center in Washington Heights

The 4,500-square-foot facility at the Police Athletic League Armory Center on 216 Fort Washington Avenue is a state-of-the-art space featuring a fully-turfed versatile gym, batting cages, and advanced equipment like baseball and golf simulators. The $382,000 renovation, funded with asset forfeiture funds and contributions from the Police Athletic League, was made possible through partnerships. Equipment for the center was provided by The DICK's Sporting Goods Foundation and Local Initiatives Support Corporation's “Game On-Community Places to Play” initiative. This center holds historical significance as it is located near the former site of Hilltop Park, the original home of the New York Yankees.This indoor baseball center will be open year-round to young people at no cost as part of the city's Saturday Night Lights program. It provides an alternative to potential criminal activities during times when crime is most likely to occur. DYCD Commissioner Keith Howard's launch of a new Saturday Night Lights website with online and in-person registration options and an updated location map further connects families with programming in their neighborhoods.

Citywide Partnership and Expansion of Saturday Night Lights

Saturday Night Lights is a citywide partnership that offers free, high-quality sports programming for youth aged 11 to 18 at nearly 140 locations across the city from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Saturday nights. The program aims to engage young people, build trust between law enforcement and communities, and enable youth to develop essential skills and relationships. It was launched in a Harlem gym in 2011 and expanded citywide in 2019. Mayor Adams' investment of $1.25 million in 2022 expanded the program to 25 additional sites, and in August 2024, an additional $2 million was announced to further expand programming and hours.Mayor Adams' administration is also investing in creating safe spaces for youth through various initiatives. This includes delivering more than 15,000 apprenticeship opportunities through public and private funds, investing $4.2 million in state grants for youth team sports programming and equipment upgrades, expanding Summer Youth Employment and Summer Rising programs, and connecting students to paid work experiences. Additionally, the administration is taking measures to keep young people safe by combating subway surfing, providing mental health services through “NYC Teenspace,” holding social media companies accountable, and cracking down on the illegal sale of flavored e-cigarettes.

Impact on the Community and Youth

New York State Senator Robert Jackson highlights the importance of this indoor baseball center, stating that it is a home run for the youth, offering a safe space to grow and thrive. New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar emphasizes the significance of free programming, stating that it allows children to play America's national pastime year-round and fosters goodwill with law enforcement. Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine praises the addition of the indoor baseball center to the SNL roster and the efforts of community partners. New York City Councilmember Carmen De La Rosa emphasizes the importance of after-school initiatives and mentorship programming. New York City Councilmember Althea Stevens emphasizes the need to invest in youth and the future of the city.These initiatives by Mayor Adams and his administration are making a significant difference in the lives of young people in New York City, providing them with safe spaces, opportunities for growth, and a chance to build brighter futures.