New York City Mayor Eric Adams and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg, Jr. announced the establishment of the “Midtown Community Improvement Coalition” on July 2. This coalition brings together the forces of the New York City Police Department, elected officials, and the business community to jointly address issues in Midtown Manhattan such as retail theft, drug abuse, mental health crises, environmental beautification, illegal activities, and unlicensed marijuana shops.
According to the Mayor’s Office, the “Midtown Community Improvement Coalition” will deploy teams to conduct regular inspections, promptly observe issues, and engage in dialogue with local community members and businesses. The alliance will also refer specific individuals who may need housing or healthcare services to suitable city government agencies or facilities.
Mayor Adams stated in a declaration that the establishment of the Midtown Community Improvement Coalition can double efforts to improve quality of life, enhance public safety, and beautify the historically significant community. “Government and the community working hand in hand are crucial to creating a vibrant, cleaner, and more livable city,” he said.
Manhattan District Attorney Bragg emphasized that Midtown Manhattan is crucial for the economic well-being of New York City and the entire city, being one of the busiest commercial districts in the world. With thousands of permanent residents, iconic tourist attractions, restaurants, retailers, and a vital transportation hub connecting to New York City, the new alliance aims to enhance public safety and quality of life for everyone in the region.
The focus of the “Midtown Community Improvement Coalition” is on addressing public safety issues between 34th and 45th streets on 7th and 9th avenues, as well as between 34th and 37th streets on 8th Avenue. The coalition will be co-chaired by Tom Harris, Chairman of the Times Square Alliance, Barbara Blair, Chair of the Fashion District Alliance, and Brian Weber, Chairman of the Midtown South Community Board.
Last year, Adams launched the “Community Link” project led by Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright, which brought together 13 government departments, including the Mayor’s Office of Community Mental Health, the Office of the Special Narcotics Prosecutor for the City of New York, the Health Department, the Department of Homeless Services, the Police Department, and the Fire Department, to work with the community and industry to address local issues.