State Labor Department Releases Preliminary March 2022 Area Unemployment Rates

 

The New York State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for March 2022. Rates are calculated using methods prescribed by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The State’s area unemployment rates rely in part on the results of the Current Population Survey, which contacts approximately 3,100 households in New York State each month. To recap last week’s statewide press release, New York State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 4.9% in February to 4.6% in March 2022. Local Area Unemployment Rates*(%) March 2021 and March 2022 (Not seasonally adjusted)

The data in the preceding table are not seasonally adjusted, which means they reflect seasonal influences (e.g., holiday and summer hires). Therefore, the most valid comparisons with this type of data are year-to-year comparisons of the same month, for example, March 2021 versus March 2022. Labor force data for the current month are preliminary and subject to revision as more information becomes available the following month. Revised estimates for prior months are available at: https://statistics.labor.ny.gov/lslaus.shtm

Labor force statistics, including the unemployment rate, for New York and every other state are based on statistical regression models specified by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. These are the most up-to-date estimates of persons employed and unemployed by place of residence. Estimates are available for New York State, labor market regions, metropolitan areas, counties and municipalities with population of at least 25,000.

Unemployment Rates By County, New York State, March 2022  Jobs and Unemployment Fact Sheet This fact sheet conveys important technical information that will contribute to a better understanding of labor force data (“household survey”), including resident employment/unemployment rates, and jobs by industry data (“business survey”), which are presented in the New York State Department of Labor’s monthly press release. State Unemployment Rates Based on Regression Model Beginning with data for January 1996, unemployment rates for New York State and all other states (as well as New York City and the City of Los Angeles) have been estimated using time-series regression statistical models developed by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Advantage of Regression Model Use of a time-series regression model reduces the month-to-month variation in unemployment rates and resident employment by reducing variation caused by sampling errors and other components of statistical noise (irregularities). Benchmarking of Estimates Once each year, labor force estimates, such as civilian labor force and the unemployment rate, are revised to reflect updated input data including new Census Bureau populations controls, newly revised establishment jobs data and new state-level annual average data from the Current Population Survey (CPS). As part of this procedure, all state figures are reviewed, revised as necessary and then re-estimated. This process is commonly referred to as “benchmarking.” Changes in Methodology Labor force estimates are now produced with an improved time-series regression model, which utilizes “real-time” benchmarking. “Real-time” benchmarking reduces end-of-year revisions, which also means that major economic events will be reflected in a more timely manner in state labor force estimates. In addition, the new methodology includes an updated way of estimating for sub-state areas (e.g. counties, metro areas) the number of unemployed who are new entrants or re-entrants into the labor force. This change in methodology will result in lower unemployment rates in some areas and increased rates in others. Unemployed and UI Beneficiaries The estimate of the number of unemployed includes all persons who had no employment during the reference week (the week including the 12th of the month), were available for work, except for temporary illness, and had made specific efforts to find employment sometime during the 4-week period ending with the reference week. Unemployment insurance (UI) beneficiaries include those who apply for and qualify for UI benefits. Consequently, the estimate of the number of unemployed and the number of UI beneficiaries do not necessarily move in tandem. Jobs Data Jobs data are obtained from a separate joint federal-state survey of business establishments. The survey, called the Current Employment Statistics of Establishments, has a sample size of 18,000 establishments in New York State. It excludes self-employed workers, agricultural workers, unpaid family workers and domestic workers employed by private households. This data represents a count of jobs by place of work. Data for each month is revised the following month as more complete information becomes available. The New York State Department of Labor is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

 

MAYOR ADAMS OPENS ROOFTOP FARM ON STATEN ISLAND TO GROW ORGANIC PRODUCE, ABSORB STORMWATER TO REDUCE NEIGHBORHOOD FLOODING

 

$670,000 Project Funded Through City’s Green Infrastructure Grant Program

 

32,000-Square-Foot Green Roof Captures Approximately 3.5 Million Gallons of Stormwater in Typical Year

 

Rooftop Farm Improves Air Quality, Promotes Biodiversity, Reduces Carbon Footprint of Building

New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala today opened a new rooftop farm on Staten Island that grows healthy organic food and absorbs stormwater, in an effort to help reduce neighborhood flooding and protect the health of New York Harbor. The approximately 32,000-square-foot roof is planted with perennial wildflowers and organic vegetables to absorb the approximately 3.5 million gallons of rain that falls on it in a typical year, instead of onto an impermeable roof. By keeping rainfall out of the local drainage system, this rooftop farm — situated on top of the Nicotra Group’s Corporate Commons Three building — helps manage stormwater and decrease neighborhood flooding. The project was made possible by a $670,000 grant provided through DEP’s Green Infrastructure Grant Program.

 

“Too often, we ignore the role that food plays in the destruction of our environment. But shifting to more sustainable, plant-based diets and growing fresh vegetables that are accessible to every community is key to building a city that supports both human and planetary health,” said Mayor Adams. “Our investment in this rooftop farm embodies the future of sustainable agriculture and resiliency by serving those in the neighborhood, and by absorbing stormwater and protecting New York Harbor, and it will deliver a healthier and more resilient future for generations to come.”

 

“Living and working in the city lovingly nicknamed the ‘Concrete Jungle,’ I am pleased to see exciting green infrastructure that can change the landscape of New York,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “Rooftop farms like this new one on Staten Island is only just the beginning, as we look to bring more innovative, resilient ideas to fruition in our city’s infrastructure.”

“DEP’s Green Infrastructure Grant program encourages property owners to do their part to manage stormwater, reduce neighborhood flooding, and improve the health of our waterways,” said DEP Commissioner Aggarwala. “This project is a wonderful example of a partnership between government and a strong community leader to build green infrastructure that enhances the sustainability of the property while also helping to protect our shared environment.”

 

“Green rooftops are a go-to tool to increase resiliency in flood-prone neighborhoods, and they are going to be critical part of the future of our built environment,” said New York City Department of Buildings Acting Commissioner Constadino ‘Gus’ Sirakis, P.E. “Thanks to DEP’s forward-thinking Green Infrastructure Grant program, as well as the sustainable roof requirements in our codes and enhanced Green Roof Property Tax Abatements, New York City is building a living, breathing, sustainable skyline, one rooftop at a time.”

 

“The produce and herbs from the Nicotra Grown Organic Rooftop Farm will be featured on our tables to serve New Yorkers, including at our two social enterprise eateries, COMMONS café and Pienza Brick Oven Pizza Café, where we donate 100 percent of our profits to charities and scholarships,” said Lois Nicotra, philanthropist and co-founder, The Nicotra Group. “When you eat a salad at the cafés, your meal is on a mission to help our community in so many ways, and the salad’s greens and tomatoes are fresh picked that morning.”

 

“The Nicotra Grown Organic Rooftop Farm is another way we show our commitment to sustainability and our love for Staten Island,” said Richard Nicotra, philanthropist and co-founder, The Nicotra Group. “This green rooftop farm is a model for using space that’s often overlooked, feeding communities fresh and local food, and building a more resilient New York City.”

 

The Corporate Commons Three farm includes 23,375 square feet of green roof and 9,500 square feet of vegetated walkway and was designed by the Brooklyn Grange. DEP’s grant award of $669,584 paid for the rooftop farm.

 

In total, DEP has committed over $14 million through its grant program to over 34 partners — including the Nicotra Group — that have contributed an additional $7.5 million in matching funds. Not-for-profit organizations, private property owners, and businesses are eligible for funding for retrofitting rooftops with green roofs to manage stormwater on private property. DEP accepts applications on a rolling, year-round basis, and consideration is given to projects that are cost effective, replicable, and provide matching funds or other contributions. To learn more and apply, New Yorkers can visit DEP’s Green Infrastructure Grant page.

 

“We’re absolutely thrilled to have partnered with the Nicotra Group and DEP on this innovative project,” said Anastasia Cole Plakias, co-founder and chief impact officer, Brooklyn Grange. “Every new building in New York City should have a green roof as beautiful and productive as this one. Not only is this roof providing much-needed environmental benefits and climate resiliency to our city, but it’s also a unique destination that supports economic opportunity and job creation on Staten Island.”

Governor Hochul Announces $638 Million in Grants for Water Infrastructure Improvements Across New York State

 

Over $206 Million Allocated to Drinking Water Projects that Treat Emerging Contaminants 

Awardees located in Capital Region, Central NY, Finger Lakes, Long Island, Mid-Hudson, Mohawk Valley, North Country, Southern Tier and Western NY Regions 

 Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the state Environmental Facilities Corporation has awarded $638 million in grants to municipalities and public authorities for 199 water infrastructure projects across the state that protect public health or improve water quality. Nearly $601 million in Water Infrastructure Improvement Act grants and over $37 million in additional federal subsidies will support approximately $1.6 billion in total infrastructure investment. The grants are projected to contribute over 35,000 jobs to New York's economy and save taxpayers an estimated $1.4 billion.  

"Modernizing our state’s water infrastructure is critical to ensuring every New Yorker has access to clean drinking water,” Governor Hochul said. “Protecting the public health of New Yorkers will always be a top priority for my administration and this funding is a testament to that commitment. We will continue working collaboratively with every level of government to empower localities with the funding they need to improve water quality statewide.” 

Today's announcement marks the largest-ever award of Water Infrastructure Improvement Act (WIIA) grants. The full list of awardees and project descriptions can be found on EFC’s website, where you may also view awards by region as well as an interactive map. 

Environmental Facilities Corporation President & CEO Maureen A. Coleman said, “This historic level of grant funding from EFC will provide transformational benefits for 151 communities as the State implements the water quality goals championed by Governor Hochul. Grants from EFC provide relief for taxpayers and help local governments get shovels in the ground for critical projects that protect public health and the environment, create jobs, and spur economic development. EFC is poised to support many more water quality infrastructure projects through the initiatives in the enacted State Budget and the infusion of federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.” 

Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner and Environmental Facilities Corporation Board Chair Basil Seggos said, “New York State is making generational investments to help build more resilient communities that are better prepared to meet the challenges of climate change by supporting upgrades and improvements to water infrastructure in municipalities across the state. With Governor Hochul’s sustained commitment to safeguarding water quality, DEC is helping to advance projects essential to providing access to clean drinking water, protecting water supplies, and promoting continued economic growth.” 

 Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett said, "Replacing outdated infrastructure and implementing treatment for emerging contaminants in New York State's public drinking water systems are critical components of ensuring equity in public health. Communities that have born the brunt of decades-old industry pollution or historical neglect are utilizing these funds to help off-set project costs and tackle the larger issues of clean water delivery."   

Highlights of the 199 Projects Funded in this Round of Grants Include:

More than $426 Million Awarded for Drinking Water Projects; Awards for Eligible Projects that Treat Emerging Contaminants Will Fund 60 Percent of Project Costs 

More than $220 million has been awarded to improve drinking water systems and an additional $206 million to projects that treat emerging contaminants. Eligible projects that address emerging contaminants above the State determined Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) are being awarded 60% of net eligible project costs. Examples of these projects include: 

• Averill Park Central School District (Capital Region) – $90,000 for the effective treatment of drinking water at Algonquin Middle School.  
• City of Rochester (Finger Lakes) – $3 million to replace 1,110 lead service lines. 
• Water Authority of Western Nassau County (Long Island) – $31 million for four projects to remove and treat emerging contaminants.  

Over $139 Million Awarded for Wastewater Improvement Projects 

Examples of these projects include: 

• Chemung County (Southern Tier) – $25 million for a sewer district wastewater treatment plant consolidation project. The funding will support the county's efforts to combine two aging wastewater treatment plants and perform upgrades that will help meet state standards and improve the water quality by reducing nitrogen and phosphorus discharged to the Chemung River and Chesapeake Bay Watershed. 
• City of Amsterdam (Mohawk Valley) – $4.3 million for a wastewater treatment plant improvement project.   

Housing Lottery Launches For 990 Woodycrest Avenue In Highbridge, The Bronx

 

The affordable housing lottery has launched for 990 Woodycrest Avenue, a six-story residential building in Highbridge, The Bronx. Designed by Infocus and developed by Yaniv Zohar under the Woodycrest Avenue LLC, the structure yields 20 residences. Available on NYC Housing Connect are eight units for residents at 130 percent of the area median income (AMI), ranging in eligible income from $49,715 to $167,570.

Amenities include a garage with assigned parking spaces, shared laundry room, gym, storage space, and a rooftop terrace. Residences come equipped with dishwashers, air conditioning, energy-efficient appliances, hardwood floors, and name-brand appliances and finishes. Tenants are responsible for electricity. which includes stove, heat, and hot water.

At 130 percent of the AMI, there are two studios with a monthly rent of $1,450 for incomes ranging from $49,715 to $124,150; two one-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $1,700 for incomes ranging from $58,286 to $139,620; and four two-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $1,900 for incomes ranging from $65,143 to $167,570.

Prospective renters must meet income and household size requirements to apply for these apartments. Applications must be postmarked or submitted online no later than May 17, 2022.

National Transgender HIV Testing Day

 

The 2134 Barnes Avenue home of Destination Tomorrow was the site for Bronx Borough President Vanesa Gibson proclaiming April 18, 2022 'National Transgender HIV Testing Day'. On hand were representatives from Destination Tomorrow, Amida Care, and Essen Health Care to provide free HIV and COVID testing, and various giveaways including bags of free groceries that were handed out to passersby. 

Destination Tomorrow is a grassroots agency, and the LGBTQ+ center of the Bronx. Destination Tomorrow believes that no individual should have to leave his, her, or their neighborhood to access LGBTQ+ specific services. 

Bronx Borough President Vanesa Gibson presented Mimi Shelton of Destination Tomorrow and Lailani Muniz of Essen Health Care, a Proclamation declaring April 18, 2022 'National Transgender HIV Testing Day'. BP Gibson added that she has reintroduced the LGBTQ+ Task Force. 

Bronx Borough President Vanesa Gibson Talks about working with Amida Care and Essen Health Care for access to  resources to people who need them the most. BP Gibson stressed that testing helps prevent deaths, and she wants to stop the spread of HIV-AIDS in the Bronx. 

Ms. Sandrine Blake of Amida Care talks of the health, advocacy, and care given to LGBTQ+ people by Amida Care. 

Mimi Shelton Director of Trans Initiatives at Destination Tomorrow speaks of what Trans people may encounter in their lives, which she said is wrong.

Lailani Muniz says it is possible to be a Trans Woman HIV Positive, and still gain employment as she has, while getting health care from Amida Care. 

Bronx Borough President Gibson reads from her Proclamation declaring April 18, 2022 'National Transgender HIV Testing Day'.

(L - R) - Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson, Lailani Muniz of Essen Health Care, Mimi Shelton of Destination Tomorrow, and Sandrine Blake of Amida Care. 

Bronx BP Gibson looks at the various handouts at the Amida Care table at the 'National Transgender HIV Testing Day' proclamation presentation.

Essen Health Care gave bags full of groceries to people walking by outside the Barnes Avenue Destination Tomorrow building. 

Statement from Governor Kathy Hochul on the U.S. Supreme Court Declining Appeal Regarding Cap on Federal Deduction for State and Local Taxes

 

"Four years ago, former President Trump and a Republican controlled Congress launched an economic attack on New Yorkers. Their tax plan handed major giveaways to big corporations, while raising taxes on middle-class families here in New York. Though I am disappointed in the U.S. Supreme Court's decision, I can't give up on fighting for New York families and the tax relief they deserve. That's why I accelerated our middle-class tax cut, put forward a significant property tax rebate and advanced a suspension of the gas tax in the recently enacted state budget. 

"Leaders in the White House and Congress have the power to undo the damage caused by the Republican tax plan and restore the full SALT deduction to help middle-class New Yorkers. With costs rising and New Yorkers hurting, I urge our leaders in Washington to address this critical economic issue as quickly as possible."

BRONX DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S OFFICE COLLECTS 350 DRESSES FOR BRONX HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TO WEAR TO PROM

 

Donations Came from BXDA Staff and the Bronx Community 

 Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark today announced that 350 formal dresses, dozens of fancy shoes, handbags, and other accessories have been collected in the Office’s Prom Dress drive in partnership with Bronx Fashion Week.

 “I just want to thank my staff, and the people in the Bronx community who donated formal wear that will help seniors at Bronx high schools to look their fashionable best on their big night. Graduating high school is a huge accomplishment that needs to be celebrated, and these dresses will help those who can’t afford to buy one celebrate in style. Thanks to my Community Affairs Unit for organizing the donation drive.”

 Bronx Fashion Week will host a Prom Dress Shop in May for girls to pick out their dresses.

New York State Parks Hiring Permanent and Seasonal Positions

 

Qualifying dates for lifeguards are scheduled across the state

 The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is seeking applicants for a range of permanent year-round and seasonal positions at State Parks and Historic Sites across New York. The positions offer an opportunity to support a premier network of parks, campgrounds, historic sites, hiking trails, swimming beaches and pools, marinas, golf courses, museums, and nature centers. 

For information on employment and current job openings visit: parks.ny.gov/employment

New York State Parks has a crucial need for lifeguards at its pools and beaches. Lifeguards must meet certain eligibility criteria, which includes successfully completing the qualifying procedure before being hired. For a complete schedule of qualifying dates, more information about hiring requirements, and an application, please visit https://parks.ny.gov/employment/lifeguards/default.aspx

A video about working on the State Parks team is available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Opnlxq3IS_o&feature=emb_title

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, which are visited by 78.4 million people annually. For more information on any of these recreation areas, call 518-474-0456 or visit parks.ny.gov, connect with us on Facebook, or follow on Instagram and Twitter.