NYC Mayor Adams Expands 'Every Block Counts' Quality of Life Initiative Citywide

'Every Block Counts' Program Expansion

• 🎯 The 'Every Block Counts' program, initially a pilot, is being expanded to all five boroughs of New York City.
• 💡 This initiative aims to improve quality of life and reduce crime by providing intensive, multi-agency support to specific blocks with historically high levels of gun violence.
• 🏙️ The program now includes 15 new blocks across Queens, Manhattan, and Staten Island, in addition to existing blocks in Brooklyn and the Bronx, bringing the total to 25 citywide.

Program Success and Impact

• 📈 Since its launch, the pilot program on 10 blocks has seen significant results, including a nearly 22% decrease in major crime.
• 💥 There has been a 33% drop in shooting incidents and a 60% reduction in shooting victims on these targeted blocks.
• 🛠️ Improvements implemented include repairing street and parking signage, cleaning public spaces, removing graffiti, and repaving sidewalks.

Multi-Agency Approach to Public Safety

• 🤝 The initiative involves collaboration between various city agencies such as the NYPD, FDNY, Department of Sanitation, Parks Department, Department of Environmental Protection, and Department of Health.
• 🚶‍♂️ A key component is the designation of a "Block CEO," a resident volunteer responsible for communicating neighbor needs and tracking progress.
• 📞 Residents are connected with city services, benefits, and job opportunities through door-to-door outreach and resource fairs.

Addressing Quality of Life Concerns

• 🧹 Beyond violent crime, the program addresses broader quality of life issues like unsightly vending, abandoned vehicles, and disruptive behavior.
• 🏘️ The goal is to ensure every block in the city is safe and clean, fostering a sense of security and making neighborhoods more livable for families.
• 📊 The city has seen a decrease in overall crime, with major crime down by nearly 6% and shootings down 30% in June.

Community Engagement and Future Outlook

• 💬 The program emphasizes cooperation between city agencies and community members, recognizing residents' deep understanding of neighborhood challenges.
• ✅ The expansion signifies a commitment to sustained attention on blocks that need it most, aiming to replicate the success seen in the pilot phase.
• 🌟 The administration believes that by working block by block, street by street, they are regaining control of neighborhoods and creating a safer environment for all New Yorkers.