On Friday, August 2nd, New York City Mayor Eric Adams, alongside the Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) Commissioner Keith Howard, announced a $2 million investment in expanded summer programming and services aimed at keeping young people safe during the final weeks of summer. This initiative, part of the administration’s “Summer of Possibility,” focuses on historically underserved neighborhoods and six priority NYPD precincts identified in the “Blueprint for Community Safety.”
Mayor Adams highlighted the importance of these programs in reducing crime and providing safe spaces for youth. “This summer, our administration has kept crime down, young people safe, and highlighted the very best in fun and entertainment New York City has to offer,” Adams said. He emphasized that the additional investment would help prevent violence and ensure young people have the resources needed to thrive and enjoy the city.
The expanded programs include extended hours for Saturday Night Lights, Cornerstone, and Beacon programs. Saturday Night Lights, offering free high-quality sports programming at nearly 140 locations, will now operate on Sundays and have extended hours on Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Select Beacon and Cornerstone locations will extend their hours from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright praised the initiative, stating, “With this $2 million expansion of summer programming, the Adams administration continues its investment in public safety by ensuring that young people, especially those in historically underserved neighborhoods, have the necessary resources to thrive.”
Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Ana J. Almanzar added, “When we expand our summer programming, we provide a space for young people to simply be themselves, have fun, and, most importantly, stay safe.”
DYCD Commissioner Howard emphasized the importance of these programs in public safety, particularly in precincts with high levels of gun violence. NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban noted the success of such initiatives in building trust and reducing crime, with shootings and murders down significantly from the previous year.
The partnership with the New York City Housing Authority and the expansion of summer programming underscore the administration’s commitment to supporting communities and creating safe environments for youth. The “Summer of Possibility” website provides information on free cultural events, parks, beaches, pools, and various opportunities available across the city.
As the summer comes to a close, these expanded programs aim to ensure a safe and engaging environment for New York City’s young people, reflecting the administration’s dedication to community safety and youth development.
