As we reflect on another remarkable year, I am filled with gratitude and pride for all we have accomplished together in our vibrant city. From the revitalization of our downtown to groundbreaking environmental initiatives, strategic flood mitigation efforts, and programs that uplift our youth and seniors, 2024 has been a testament to our shared commitment to progress.

Here’s a glimpse of how we’ve moved New Rochelle forward:

Revitalizing Downtown New Rochelle

Modern Zoning for a Dynamic Experience: We updated zoning to encourage a mix of modern entertainment options, including notable eateries, outdoor dining, artisan production spaces, and live music venues—creating a vibrant street-level atmosphere.
Tenant Improvement Program: This initiative provided critical financial support to aspiring and existing businesses, helping to fill vacant spaces and activate our downtown commercial district. We will also be able to leverage lessons from the tenant improvement program to activate other commercial districts throughout New Rochelle.
Train Station Transformation: After 18 months of planning, we unveiled an ambitious plan to renovate our historic train station into a pedestrian-friendly, net-zero community hub—a project that will modernize this key gateway to our city.

Continuing our Innovative Approach to Stormwater Mitigation

In 2024, we advanced 12 strategic stormwater projects across the city, significantly reducing the impact of flooding. Looking ahead to 2025, another 12 projects are set to provide further relief and resilience, ensuring our community remains protected against severe weather events.

Advancing Sustainability

Food Scrap Recycling: Helping residents reduce waste while promoting sustainability.
Community Forest Management: A comprehensive street tree inventory and management plan to enhance our urban canopy.
Textile Recycling: A new initiative to keep textiles out of landfills.
Goats to the Rescue: Partnering with Ward Acres Conservancy, we brought in goats to manage invasive plant growth at Ward Acres Park—an eco-friendly solution that’s as effective as it is charming.

Enhancing Parks and Recreation

Renovated basketball courts at Stephenson Park and Lincoln Park
Paved pathways at Maplewood Park for improved access and enjoyment.
Upgraded dog park fencing and rehabilitated trails and meadows at Ward Acres.
New garden sheds to support community gardening efforts.

Investing in Our People

Seniors: A 25% increase in meals served through the Office of the Aging, along with expanded events such as weekly pickleball matches and greenhouse visits.
Youth: Over 500 youth hired through summer and fall employment programs, and the inaugural Teen Fest brought together 300 teens for a day of fun and engagement. Over 300 families received holiday gifts through Youth Bureau initiatives.
Community Support: Secured $300,000 in funding to renovate the Oasis Men’s Shelter, improving resources for those in need.

Looking Ahead

These highlights represent just a fraction of what makes New Rochelle a place where we can all thrive. From infrastructure improvements to community programs, there is so much more to celebrate and even more on the horizon. I look forward to continuing this journey with all of you as we work together to move New Rochelle forward.

Here’s to a bright year ahead!

Regards,

December 2024: Catch Up on New Rochelle’s Latest News and Events!