Governor Hochul Announces Major Milestone in $30 Million Project on Bruckner Expressway and Hutchinson River Parkway in the Bronx

 

New Entrance Ramp from Eastbound Pelham Parkway to Northbound Bruckner Expressway (I-95) Will Be Open to Traffic

  Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the completion of a new entrance ramp from eastbound Pelham Parkway to northbound Bruckner Expressway I-95, marking a milestone for the New York State Department of Transportation's $30 million project which is enhancing safety and mobility on the northbound Bruckner Expressway I-95 and the northbound Hutchinson River Parkway in the Bronx. The new quarter-mile entrance ramp from eastbound Pelham Parkway to northbound Bruckner Expressway I-95 will be open to traffic today, replacing two entrance ramps from eastbound and westbound Pelham Parkway to northbound I-95, creating a better traffic merge for motorists entering the highway and reducing traffic delays.

"This project milestone along the Bruckner Expressway reaffirms our commitment to enhancing safety on highways across New York City,” Governor Hochul said. "Once completed, this project will provide a safe and seamless commute for motorists that for too long have had to contend with heavy traffic at this northeastern portion of the Bronx."

The overall project, located in the vicinity of the Bruckner Expressway/Pelham Parkway interchange and the northbound Hutchinson River Parkway between the Bruckner Expressway overpass and the Bartow Avenue underpass, is slated for completion in the fall of 2024.

The eastbound Pelham Parkway ramp to northbound I-95 has already been removed and the westbound Pelham Parkway ramp to northbound I-95 is scheduled to be removed by the end of this month. A third ramp (Exit 8C), from northbound I-95 to westbound Pelham Parkway, was also removed and replaced with a new traffic configuration allowing motorists to use the existing Shore Road exit to access westbound Pelham Parkway.

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, "The completion of this new entrance ramp to the Bruckner Expressway is a major step in our goal to improve connections and traffic flow between New York City highways, local roads, and residential areas. While this is one milestone in a large project, it's an important one, and we will continue to work every day to improve our transportation infrastructure - its resiliency and its sustainability - now and for the future."

The $30 million project also includes the ongoing construction of two new signalized intersections on Pelham Parkway with dedicated left turn lanes, which, once completed, will allow motorists on westbound Pelham Parkway to access the new entrance ramp to northbound I-95 and allow eastbound Pelham Parkway traffic to access the existing entrance ramp to southbound I-95. A new exit ramp from northbound Hutchinson River Parkway to Bartow Avenue will also be added to provide better access to Co-op City, which is comprised of 15,372 residential units and is the largest single residential development in the United States.

Other improvements that will enhance safety and provide motorists/bicyclists/pedestrians with better visibility include realigned bicycle-pedestrian paths closer to Pelham Parkway, new signalized crossings compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and new LED lights where paths cross highway ramps.

In addition, the project will enhance landscaping and planting of vegetation in the vicinity of Bronx Victory Memorial and Memorial Grove (part of Bronx Pelham Bay Park), implement new sustainable stormwater management practices, install new catch basins, erect a new sign in the Bronx Victory Memorial Plaza that provides a brief history about the Victory Memorial, resurface pavement, install new pavement markings, drainage systems, LED highway lighting, a retaining wall along the new entrance ramp at the I-95/Pelham Parkway interchange, and new curbs and guiderails throughout the project limits.

Bronx Chamber of Commerce - Bronx Business News You Can Use

Upcoming Events, Legislative News, Grant Opportunities, & More

(Friday) Extra, Extra Click here for this week's video: Summer Friday Schedule - The Bronx Chamber of Commerce offices will be closed for professional development on Fridays beginning 7/7/2023 through Labor Day. The Bronx Prosperity Plan Process Launched 2023 Chairman's Legislative Breakfast Bronx Chamber Promotes Waterway Service with Businesses Legislative Updates & Advocacy NYC Small Business Commission Year 1 Report Released Upcoming Events Summer BBQ Reception, 8/3/2023 - Pelham Bay Split Rock Golf Course, 6:00pm

BRONX CHAMBER & INSTITUTIONAL PARTNERS LAUNCH THE BRONX PROSPERITY PLAN PROCESS

The Bronx Chamber of Commerce with Bronx and New York City institutional partners announced today the development of Better Together – A Bronx Prosperity Plan Renewed. This economic development and opportunity plan strives to leverage strengths and address challenges with sustainable solutions. The process, led by the Bronx Chamber of Commerce seeks to develop a long-term economic development vision for the Bronx and prioritize and advance specific projects, policies, and partnerships that will help the borough achieve that vision. The Bronx is the youngest and one of the fastest growing boroughs, a bastion of diversity and the pulse of New York City, despite historic challenges. A comprehensive economic development vision and strategy will help ensure that the Bronx benefits from an unprecedented level of investment by the City, State, and Federal government. “The Better Together Bronx Prosperity Plan will provide borough-wide organization and resource identification,” said Anthony Mormile, Chair of the Bronx Chamber of Commerce and Senior Vice President of Orange Bank and Trust Company. “By convening these institutional partners, leveraging our mission and commitment to community, and cultivating public and private sector expertise and resources, the plan will provide a much-needed roadmap for one of the fastest growing counties in New York State.” For the full media release, click here.

2023 CHAIRMAN'S LEGISLATIVE BREAKFAST

2023 Legislative Breakfast - Stronger Together as we move the Bronx forward. The Bronx Chamber of Commerce and The New York Botanical Garden held the 2023 Chairman’s Legislative Breakfast at The New York Botanical Garden. The annual event brought together New York City and New York State legislative delegations to discuss the economic development vision for the Bronx and business-related legislation impacting the borough, New York City, and New York State.  The morning featured legislative briefings, Legislator panels moderated by John Calvelli of the Wildlife Conservation Society, remarks by Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson, a presentation by Dan Garodnick, Chair of the New York City Planning Commission, on the City of Yes Economic Opportunity Plan, and small business briefings on the impact of legislation. We extend our sincere thank you everyone for participating. For more information, email: admin@bronxchamber.org

BRONX CHAMBER PARTNERS WITH NYC FERRY & BUSINESSES TO PROMOTE WATERWAY TRANSPORTATION

The Bronx is making waterway access a priority. The Bronx Chamber team led NYC Ferry for our tour of businesses surrounding Bronx ferry access points. During the tour businesses learned about the benefits of waterway access for their employees and customers. For more information, email: outreach@bronxchamber.org

LEGISLATIVE & ADVOCACY UPDATES

NYC SMALL BUSINESS ADVISORY COMMISSION RELEASES FIRST-EVER REPORT: A CITY OF YES FOR SMALL BUSINESS Inaugural Report Identifies Opportunities to Cut Red Tape, Improve Business Services, and Forge a Stronger Small Business Economy The inaugural report of its NYC Small Business Advisory Commission ("SBAC"), spotlighting eight recommendations to make New York City a "City of Yes" for small businesses. Created by Mayor Eric Adams through Executive Order 15, SBAC is tasked with providing guidance and insight to the Mayor and other policymakers on how to best support New York City’s small businesses. The Bronx Chamber of Commerce has the privilege of representing the borough on this Commission, as well as Co-Chairing the Sub-Committee on Fines and Regulations.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Summer BBQ Networking Reception August 3 at 6:00pm Pelham Bay & Split Rock, 870 Shore Road Bronx, NY Join Bronx Chamber members, elected officials, and friends for a Summer evening of networking, great food & drinks, and conversation. The evening includes live music, barbeque, dancing, and networking. Individuals wishing to golf before hand must contact Pelham Bay and Split Rock Golf Course directly. Reserve Your Spot

For the complete Bronx Chamber Events Calendar, featuring educational workshops, networking events and other opportunities hosted by the Chamber, its members, & partners, please visit and bookmark our website events calendar link in your browser - new events are added weekly!

 

AIR QUALITY HEALTH ADVISORY ISSUED FOR NEW YORK CITY METRO REGION

 

In Effect for Saturday, July 15, 2023

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos and State Department of Health (DOH) Commissioner Dr. James McDonald issued an Air Quality Health Advisory for the New York City Metro region for Saturday, July 15, 2023.

The pollutant of concern is: Ozone

The advisory will be in effect 11:00 a.m. through 11:00 p.m.

DEC and DOH issue Air Quality Health Advisories when DEC meteorologists predict levels of pollution, either ozone or fine particulate matter (PM2.5) are expected to exceed an Air Quality Index (AQI) value of 100. The AQI was created as an easy way to correlate levels of different pollutants to one scale, with a higher AQI value indicating a greater health concern.

OZONE

Summer heat can lead to the formation of ground-level ozone, a major component of photochemical smog. Automobile exhaust and out-of-state emission sources are the primary sources of ground-level ozone and are the most serious air pollution problems in the northeast. This surface pollutant should not be confused with the protective layer of ozone in the upper atmosphere.

Ozone is not a direct emission, and is produced indirectly when sunlight chemically reacts with nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from automobile exhaust and industrial emissions. High ozone isn't as visible as PM2.5 because it's a colorless gas, but it will produce hazy skies and reduce visibility in high concentrations.

People, especially young children, those who exercise outdoors, those involved in vigorous outdoor work and those who have respiratory disease (such as asthma) should consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity when ozone levels are the highest (generally afternoon to early evening). When outdoor levels of ozone are elevated, going indoors will usually reduce your exposure. Individuals experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain or coughing should consider consulting their doctor.

Ozone levels generally decrease at night and can be minimized during daylight hours by curtailment of automobile travel and the use of public transportation where available.

New Yorkers also are urged to take the following energy-saving and pollution-reducing steps:

• use mass transit or carpool instead of driving, as automobile emissions account for about 60 percent of pollution in our cities;
• conserve fuel and reduce exhaust emissions by combining necessary motor vehicle trips;
• turn off all lights and electrical appliances in unoccupied areas;
• use fans to circulate air. If air conditioning is necessary, set thermostats at 78 degrees;
• close the blinds and shades to limit heat build-up and to preserve cooled air;
• limit use of household appliances. If necessary, run the appliances at off-peak (after 7 p.m.) hours. These would include dishwashers, dryers, pool pumps and water heaters;
• set refrigerators and freezers at more efficient temperatures;
• purchase and install energy efficient lighting and appliances with the Energy Star label; and
• reduce or eliminate outdoor burning and attempt to minimize indoor sources of PM 2.5 such as smoking. A toll-free Air Quality Hotline (1-800-535-1345) has been established by DEC to keep New Yorkers informed of the latest Air Quality situation.

Additional information on ozone and PM 2.5 is available on DEC's website and on DOH's website (PM 2.5) / DOH's website (ozone).To stay up-to-date with announcements from DEC, sign up to receive Air Quality Alerts through DEC Delivers: DEC's Premier Email Service.

The Saturday, July 15, Air Quality Health Advisory regions consists of: New York City Metro, which includes New York City, Rockland, and Westchester counties.

Housing Lottery Launches For The Willow At 750 East 134th Street In Port Morris, The Bronx

The affordable housing lottery has launched for The Willow, an eight-story mixed-use building at 750 East 134th Street in Port Morris, The Bronx. Designed by Newman Design Architects and developed by Altmark Group, the structure yields 133 residences and 9,456 square feet of commercial space. Available on NYC Housing Connect are 112 units for residents at 30 to 80 percent of the area median income (AMI), ranging in eligible income from $17,006 to $140,080.

Amenities include rooftop terrace, recreation room, shared laundry room, bike storage lockers, package lockers, elevator, and security cameras. Units feature designer vinyl tile, Quartz countertops, and steel appliances. Tenants are responsible for electricity.

At 30 percent of the AMI, there are two studios with a monthly rent of $410 for incomes ranging from $17,006 to $33,900; seven one-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $521 for incomes ranging from $21,223 to $38,130; three two-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $615 for incomes ranging from $25,509 to $45,750; and one three-bedroom with a monthly rent of $701 for incomes ranging from $29,555 to $52,530.

At 50 percent of the AMI, there are seven studios with a monthly rent of $768 for incomes ranging from $29,280 to $56,500; 21 one-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $969 for incomes ranging from $36,583 to $63,550; eight two-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $1,152 for incomes ranging from $43,920 to $76,250; and four three-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $1,322 for incomes ranging from $50,846 to $87,550.

At 70 percent of the AMI, there are five studios with a monthly rent of $1,126 for incomes ranging from $41,555 to $79,100; 14 one-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $1,416 for incomes ranging from $51,909 to $88,970; five two-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $1,689 for incomes ranging from $62,332 to $106,750; and three three-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $1,942 for incomes ranging from $72,103 to $122,570.

At 80 percent of the AMI, there are six studios with a monthly rent of $1,305 for incomes ranging from $47,692 to $90,400; 17 one-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $1,640 for incomes ranging from $59,589 to $101,680; five two-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $1,958 for incomes ranging from $71,555 to $122,000; and four three-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $2,252 for incomes ranging from $82,732 to $140,080.

Prospective renters must meet income and household size requirements to apply for these apartments. Applications must be postmarked or submitted online no later than September 12, 2023.

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES RETURN OF ‘RISE UP NYC’ CONCERT SERIES, PROVIDING EIGHT FREE, SAFE EVENTS FOR NEW YORKERS THIS SUMMER

 

Concert Series to Include Farmer Nappy, K. Michelle, Stokley, Celebrity DJ Funk Flex, and More for Celebration of Culture, Music, and Unity

New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the return of the “Rise Up NYC” concert series, which will provide New Yorkers with eight free community concerts that will be performed across all five boroughs this summer. The highly anticipated concert series returns for its second season and encourages New Yorkers to explore all corners of the city. Starting July 19, New Yorkers can access concerts at no cost, at a time when rising costs are putting a strain on many families. The series will present performances by critically acclaimed artists, including rhythm and blues singer K. Michelle, Stokley, Caribbean hitmaker Farmer Nappy, renowned Hot 97 Disc Jockey Funk Flex, and more.

 

“We’re all excited for New Yorkers to gather together again and partake in the music and culture that keeps our city moving,” said Mayor Adams. “‘Rise Up NYC’ is not only giving all New Yorkers access to free, safe concerts, but is also giving New Yorkers another way to enjoy the city we call home. Music and the arts are a lifeline for our city, and we are going to hit the right notes and turn the dial up to 11 this summer. We invite all New Yorkers to join us to celebrate the energy of New York City through the shared love of music.”

 

“Our ‘Rise Up NYC’ concert series is back, offering free community concerts across all of the five boroughs,” said Chief Advisor to the Mayor Ingrid Lewis-Martin. “As summer kicks into high gear, we invite all New Yorkers to bring their family and friends out for fun nights and world-class entertainment in the city that never sleeps. Together we can rise up!”

 

Starting July 19, and through August 20, the Adams administration will be presenting eight concerts across all five boroughs:

 

Wingate Park, Brooklyn

Brooklyn Avenue between Winthrop Street and Rutland Road

• Wednesday, July 19
• Thursday, July 20

Midland Beach Parking Lot 8, Staten Island

Father Capodanno Boulevard and Hunter Avenue

• Thursday, July 27

Orchard Beach, Bronx

One Orchard Beach Road

• Thursday, August 10

Roy Wilkins Park, Queens

Merrick Boulevard and Baisley Boulevard

• Wednesday, August 16
• Thursday, August 17

St. Nicholas Park, Manhattan

West 135th Street and St. Nicholas Avenue

• Saturday, August 19
  Sunday, August 20

‘Rise Up NYC’ will amplify local artists, encourage New Yorkers to support local small businesses near the concert venues, and provide the opportunity for New Yorkers, especially young New Yorkers, to come together and support nonviolent solutions to conflicts across the city.

 

For more information about the concert series, including a list of artists that will be updated as each event gets closer, visit the ‘Rise Up NYC’ website.