New York City Mayor Adams delivered a speech on April 16 in Manhattan promoting his achievements in real estate development, announcing that a long-anticipated office skyscraper in Midtown has “finally become a reality.” However, he faced protests on the spot, with demonstrators accusing him of betraying the interests of workers.
Adams spoke at a breakfast meeting organized by the Association for a Better New York (ABNY) to discuss the recovery of New York City after the pandemic, specifically focusing on real estate development. He announced that the Midtown office skyscraper, developed by Vornado Realty Trust, Rudin Development, and hedge fund giant Ken Griffin, has “finally become a reality.”
This building located at 350 Park Avenue has been in the planning for years and will undergo public review in early 2025, with construction expected to start in 2026 and completion by 2032. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Foster + Partners, the 62-story building will have a floor area of 1.8 million square feet and accommodate 6,000 employees. Griffin’s Citadel companies will be the main tenants, with 2,100 employees leasing at least 850,000 square feet. Adams stated that this project demonstrates the full recovery of New York City and that upon completion, the building will not only boost the economy but also reshape the city’s skyline.
However, Adams’ speech was interrupted by protesters who rushed the stage, accusing him of betraying the expectations of New York’s working class. The protesters, who were part of an organization called “Planet Over Profit,” shouted, “How much money did you take from the rich?” “When will you stand up for New York’s working class?” and “We need a new mayor!” They were subsequently escorted out of the venue by security personnel.
In response to the protests, Adams later casually remarked during a question-and-answer session that some people don’t like their own lives, so they want to disrupt others’ lives. He also stated that he can only pray for these people and that he needs to focus on governing the city. Deputy Mayor Levy, responsible for public relations, also noted that New York City has a population of 8.3 million with 3,500 different opinions.
Despite this, Adams is currently facing pressure from various fronts. His achievements are being questioned, and his fundraising activities during the 2021 mayoral campaign are under federal investigation. Moreover, former subordinates have come forward accusing him of sexual misconduct. Within the Democratic Party, several individuals, including former Comptroller Scott Stringer, are considering challenging Adams in the party’s mayoral primary next year.