Governor Hochul Urges Preparedness Ahead of Impending Coastal Storm

High Wind Watch Issued for Queens, Kings, Nassau and Suffolk Counties Beginning 12 p.m. Sunday through 6 a.m. Monday; Strong Winds Possible for Remainder of State

Coastal Flooding Watch Issued for Southern Westchester County, New York City and Long Island Beginning 8 a.m. Sunday Through 6 p.m. Monday

1.5-3 Inches of Rainfall Expected Downstate

New One-Stop Website Launched – resilient.ny.gov – To Help Easily Connect New Yorkers to Resiliency and Mitigation Resources

Governor Kathy Hochul urged New Yorkers to prepare ahead of a strong coastal storm that is forecast to impact portions of New York during Columbus Day weekend. The storm, which is expected to begin forming off the coast of the Carolinas on Saturday, will strengthen as it moves up the mid-Atlantic coast towards southern New England, bringing heavy rain, strong winds and the potential for coastal flooding to downstate New York. Ahead of the storm, Governor Hochul is urging New Yorkers to closely monitor their local forecasts, prepare their households accordingly and to use caution if traveling in impacted areas this weekend.

“As this coastal storm approaches, I’m urging all New Yorkers to stay alert, watch the forecast closely, and take steps now to prepare,” Governor Hochul said. “Conditions can change quickly, so please use caution if you need to travel and check on friends and neighbors who may need extra help. Staying vigilant and informed will help keep everyone safe through the weekend.”

Current forecasts are projecting strong winds to be one of the most hazardous impacts of this storm. Already, the National Weather Service has issued High Wind Watches for Queens, Kings, Nassau and Suffolk Counties beginning 12 p.m. Sunday through 6 a.m. Monday. During this period, wind gusts of up to 60 miles per hour are possible and could result in downed trees and possible power outages.

Forecasters are also calling for long duration rainfall as part of this storm, the most intense of which will be focused downstate where between 1.5 and 3 inches of rainfall is expected in the lower Mid-Hudson, New York City and Long Island Regions and minor flooding resulting from poor drainage is possible. The northern Mid-Hudson and southern Capital Regions are forecast to receive between an inch and 1.5 inches of rain, while the rest of the state should see an inch or less.

Additionally, a Coastal Flood Watch has been issued for New York City and Long Island beginning 8 a.m. Sunday through 6 p.m. Monday. Widespread flooding will impact the entire coastline, with the potential for major flooding across the south shore of Long Island back bays and Great South Bay beginning with the high tides on Sunday. Beach erosion is also likely.

New Yorkers are encouraged to monitor their local forecasts, weather watches and warnings. It is critical to ensure that government emergency alerts are enabled on their mobile phones. New Yorkers can also sign up for real-time weather and emergency alerts that will be texted to their phones by texting their county or borough name to 333111. For a complete listing of weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service website at alerts.weather.gov.

Governor Hochul also launched a new, comprehensive tool – resilient.ny.gov – to connect New Yorkers with the wide-ranging State investments and initiatives available to make their communities more resilient and adaptive to climate change. The website offers a centralized resilience platform – a one-stop shop for residents, businesses, and municipalities to find the resources, assistance, and funding opportunities needed to plan, adapt, and strengthen communities. The site helps connect users with funding through an easy-to-navigate funding directory and information about how the State is planning ahead to meet future needs through the New York State Adaptation and Resilience Plan.

Severe Weather Safety Tips

Disaster Supplies

Have disaster supplies on hand, including:

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Battery-operated radio and extra batteries
• First aid kit and manual
• Emergency food and water
• Non-electric can opener
• Essential medicines
• Checkbook, cash, credit cards, ATM cards

Flash Flooding

• Never attempt to drive on a flooded road. Turn around and go another way.
• If water begins to rise rapidly around you in your car, abandon the vehicle immediately.
• Do not underestimate the power of fast-moving water. Two feet of fast-moving flood water will float your car, and water moving at two miles per hour can sweep cars off a road or bridge.

Power Outages

• Check with your utility to determine area repair schedules.
• Turn off or unplug lights and appliances to prevent a circuit overload when service is restored; leave one light on to indicate when power has been restored.
• If heat goes out during a winter storm, keep warm by closing off rooms you do not need.
• To Report an Electric Outage, Call:
  • Central Hudson: 800-527-2714
  • Con Edison: 800-752-6633
  • National Grid: 800-867-5222
  • NYSEG: 800-572-1131
  • O&R: 877-434-4100
  • PSEG-LI: 800-490-0075
  • RG&E: 800-743-1701

For more safety tips, go to www.dhses.ny.gov/safety.

 

California Man Charged Federally for Mailing Threat to Injure and Kill

 

The Justice Department announced a criminal complaint charging George Russell Isbell Jr., 69, of San Diego, with mailing a threatening communication. Isbell was arrested on Oct. 7 in San Diego.

“Thanks to the incredible teamwork between state, local, and federal law enforcement, this coward hiding behind a keyboard was taken into custody and charged federally for mailing threatening communications,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We cannot allow this political violence to continue any longer. This arrest will serve as a reminder to many – do not do this, we will find you and bring you to justice.”

“The FBI and our partners will not tolerate threats of violence like the kind allegedly made by the defendant about a media personality,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “We will continue to investigate, pursue, and find those responsible for this conduct and ensure such criminals are held to full account in our justice system.”

“Unfortunately, a rise in political threats has been accompanied by a rise in political violence,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “We take all threats of violence seriously and will continue to respond in close coordination with our law enforcement partners and prosecute the authors of such threatening communications.”

According to the complaint, on or about Sept. 18, Isbell mailed a letter from San Diego threatening to injure his victim, a media personality located in Tampa, Florida, and telling his victim that the victim needed “to be exterminated.” In the letter, he referenced one of the victim’s friends, Mr. Charlie Kirk, a conservative political activist who had recently been killed during a public engagement on a college campus. After writing that he hoped that the American flag “strangles the life out of you,” the letter went on to state: “Maybe someone will blow your head off!!! We can hope! Planning any public engagements? Love to see your head explode and your blood stain the concrete red. What a sight!”.

If convicted, Isbell faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The FBI Tampa Field Office and the Tampa Police Department are investigating the case, with assistance from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Additional support was provided by the FBI San Diego Field Office, the San Diego Police Department, and the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office.

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Wheeler III for the Middle District of Florida is prosecuting the case.

A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Miramar Completes Construction at 405-407 West 206th Street in Inwood, ManhattanMiramar at 405-407 West 206th Street.

 

Construction is complete on Miramar, a two-building residential complex at 405-407 West 206th Street in Inwood, Manhattan. Designed by Beyer Blinder Belle Architects and developed by LMXD, an affiliate of L+M Development Partners, MSquared, and Taconic Partners, the structures collectively span more than 751,000 square feet and yield 698 rental units with 281 dedicated to affordable housing. The 14- and 17-story towers stand 140 and 175 feet tall and rise from a connected podium occupying a full block bounded by West 207th Street to the north, West 206th Street to the south, Ninth Avenue to the east, and a handful of low-rise residential and commercial holdouts to the west.

Work finished on the brick façade and grid of recessed windows since our last on-site update in mid-February 2024, when the reinforced concrete superstructures were closing in on topping out and crews were beginning to frame the exterior with metal studs. Miramar’s envelope is largely composed of brick in various earth tones, while the bulkheads and some of the inner-facing walls are finished in gray paneling. The following aerial shots show the structures’ multiple setbacks topped with terraces, green roofs, and landscaped amenity decks.

Units are equipped with washers and dryers. Tenants are responsible for electricity including stove and heating. The affordable housing component is reserved for individuals making 40 to 80 percent of the area median income (AMI), ranging in eligible income from $38,400 to $154,080.

Residential amenities at Miramar include a landscaped outdoor courtyard, an attended lobby, fitness center, party room, children’s playroom, coworking spaces, multiple lounges, music rehearsal rooms, storage space, and several rooftop terraces.

Community League of the Heights as the community sponsor for the project.

Construction cost $416 million. The property is located directly adjacent to the elevated 207th Street station, served by the local 1 train. The developers are pursuing a LEED BD+C Silver certification.

Weekly News from State Senator Gustavo Rivera!

SENATOR RIVERA IN THE COMMUNITY

SENATOR RIVERA JOINED THE RIVERDALE JEWISH COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP FOR A NIGHT OF REMEMBRANCE AND REFLECTION

This week, Senator Rivera joined community members and the Riverdale Jewish Community Partnership for a Night of Remembrance and Reflection, marking the second anniversary of the terrorist attacks on October 7.

"Thank you to our hosts and faith leaders, Rabbi Krauss, Rabbi Exler and many others for inviting me to join you in prayer and in unyielding hope," said Senator Rivera. "We pray that every last hostage returns home and until peace feels possible again."

This week, Senator Rivera attended the celebration of the Renaissance Youth Center’s 25 years of impact, growth, and community in the South Bronx. He joined the Center’s Founder and CEO, Bervin Harris, along with elected officials and community members, to commemorate this milestone and enjoy a performance by the Music With a Message youth band.

“It has truly been incredible to see the work that the Renaissance Youth Center has done and the lives this organization has touched throughout the years. None of this would be possible without the dedication and vision of its Founder and CEO, Bervin Harris. Thank you, Bervin, for your unwavering commitment to empowering our youth and strengthening our community," said Senator Rivera.

This week, Senator Rivera presented a $70,000 check to the Riverdale Neighborhood House’s Executive Director Andrew Belton in order to support their College Directions program and their Workforce Development program, two initiatives to help young people in the community achieve their educational goals. 

Their College Directions program provides mentorship for college readiness with a primary focus on first-generation college applicants while their Youth Internship program provides paid opportunities for youth to work with local businesses. Additionally, this funding will support community events, Sexual and Reproductive Health programming, and outdoor educational events in the Northwest Bronx.

“I’m beyond proud to award $70,000 to Riverdale Neighborhood House to continue delivering programs that help young adults enhance their futures through RNH’s educational and mentorship services. Ensuring access to resources allows them to explore new pathways, while also sharpening their existing skill sets. There is a lot of hidden talent in The Bronx, and supporting this mission alongside Executive Director Andrew Belton is something I’m very grateful to do. I thank him for his continued dedication to encouraging our youth to strive for success," said Senator Rivera.

 

"We are deeply grateful to Senator Rivera for his continued support of Riverdale Neighborhood House and our community. His partnership helps us provide young people and families with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive," said Riverdale Neighborhood House’s Executive Director, Andrew Belton.

Today, Senator Rivera was proud to honor the Puerto Rican victims of 9/11 through the installation of their flag at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. This meaningful addition pays tribute to their legacy, their contributions to New York’s history, and the memory of all those lost in that tragic terrorist attack. As a proud Puerto Rican, the Senator performed the Puerto Rican national anthem during the ceremony.

Thank you to Assemblymember Amanda Septimo and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum for the invitation!

SENATOR RIVERA JOINED THE CROSS BRONX ROUNDTABLE AT THE BRONX RIVER HOUSE

Today, Senator Rivera joined elected officials, agency representatives, and Bronx organizations at the Bronx River House to discuss the Cross Bronx Five Bridges Project. Senator Rivera is not supportive of the proposed Cross Bronx Five Bridges plan as it stands. It is widely known that the Cross Bronx Expressway is one of the biggest sources of air pollution in the South Bronx, which has consequently negatively impacted health indicators for generations of Bronxites, including high rates of asthma and heart disease.

The Cross Bronx Five Bridges Project seeks to address the aging and unsafe infrastructure of the Cross Bronx Expressway (CBE or “Cross Bronx”) along the stretch between Boston Road and Rosedale Avenue, while also creating an opportunity to tackle broader transportation and environmental needs through the repair process. While it is true that these bridges require renovations, it is also true that this would be a waste of resources and would not address the air quality or health needs of the poorest families in our City. The Cross Bronx has already inflicted enough harm on our borough.

This roundtable served as an opportunity to continue the dialogue on alternatives and guidance to ensure these changes are implemented effectively and in alignment with the needs of the community, especially those who live near and commute through the affected area every day. For the sake of our communities, the NYSDOT must invest in safer and more sustainable alternatives that advance our environment justice goals as recommended by the commun

This fall, New York families are set up for success with the rollout of free school meals for 2.7 million New York students. Universal school meals improve student health and wellbeing, support learning, and save families real money.

Thanks to funding for universal meals included in the state budget earlier this year, no family will have to worry about the cost of meals at school.

Universal meals also support local economies, bring resources into schools, and make cafeteria operations more efficient. Families are still encouraged to submit their household income information, which helps schools secure additional funding and benefits. Click here for more info.

FORWARDING: NEW YORKERS URGED TO TAKE SAFETY MEASURES IN PREPARATION FOR POTENTIAL COASTAL STORM THIS WEEKEND

 

City Issues Weather Alert as Impacts from Storm May Include Strong Winds, Heavy Surf, and Potentially Major Coastal Flooding 

New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) is urging New Yorkers, especially those living along the coast, to prepare for potential impacts from a storm expected to affect the city Sunday, October 12 through Monday, October 13. The National Weather Service (NWS) has forecast a total of 1.5 to 3 inches of rain with locally higher amounts possible. 

A coastal storm forming off the Southeast coast Friday night is expected to move north this holiday weekend, bringing strong winds, heavy surf, and periods of heavy rain that may cause coastal flooding in the city, including highways, streets, basements, and underpasses. Communities along southern Brooklyn, southern Queens, the eastern shore of Staten Island, and the Bronx shoreline are at greatest risk for flooding and storm impact. 

“This weekend, New Yorkers should expect a storm that will bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, and potential flooding,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “Our teams are ready and prepared, but as always, we encourage New Yorkers to stay aware and connected through Notify NYC to prepare for any impacts. We will continue to monitor this storm to keep our city safe and strong.” 

“We're keeping a close eye on this storm as it moves up the coast,” said NYCEM Commissioner Zach Iscol. “While the exact impacts will depend on the storm's track, we're expecting strong winds and coastal flooding, especially in our shoreline communities. We encourage all New Yorkers to begin preparing now: make a plan, check on your neighbors, and sign up for Notify NYC alerts.” 

NYCEM recommends the following preparedness actions for New Yorkers for those in coastal flood-prone regions and low-lying areas: 

• Relocate parked vehicles to higher ground or inland, ensuring they do not obstruct roadways or block emergency access. 
• Communication and Information: Before and during an emergency, the City will send emergency alerts through various channels, including Notify NYC, available in 13 different languages, with a special sub-group dedicated to Basement Apartment Dwellers. Subscribe to Notify NYC at NYC.gov/NotifyNYC, download the app in your phone's app store, or dial 311. Keep a battery-powered radio ready for timely updates, particularly if power outages are expected.
• Gather Supplies: Every household member should have a Go Bag packed with essential items, such as bottled water, non-perishable food, and basic medical supplies.
•  Tidal Awareness and Coastal Barriers: Monitor tide tables and storm surge forecasts. Know when high tides are expected in your vicinity and be prepared to adjust your plans. Where feasible, deploy sandbags or other deployables suitable for a residence to reduce the risk of tidal water intrusion. 
• Watercraft and Boat Security: If you own boats or watercraft, secure or relocate them immediately. Fluctuating tides can not only carry them away but loose watercraft can cause additional damage.
• Storm Drains and Local Warnings: If it's safe to do so, check and clear any nearby storm drains to help manage water runoff and lessen the chances of localized flooding. Pay attention to localized warnings, especially those pertaining to rip currents and high waves.
• Beach Closures and Coastal Roads: Remain updated on any beach closures, as flooding can swiftly make these areas hazardous. Beaches are closed to swimming. Plan alternative travel routes to avoid low-lying coastal roads that may be susceptible to flooding.
• Home Safety and Utility Measures: Ensure your home's sump pumps are operational and familiarize yourself with how to safely shut off utilities like gas, water, and electricity. If you reside in a basement or below-grade apartment, be particularly vigilant, as these areas are more susceptible to flooding. Follow City guidance for additional actions specific to below-grade dwellings. Subscribe to Notify NYC’s Basement Apartment Dweller subgroup for key alerts.
• Document & Insurance Review: Secure essential documents in waterproof containers and maintain digital backups. Review your insurance to ensure you have specialized flood coverage, as standard policies often don't cover flood and wind damage. Consider enrolling in the National Flood Insurance Program. Learn more at floodsmart.gov.
• Prepare for Outages: To gear up for potential power disruptions, keep your cell phones charged, stock up on supplies. If power outages are predicted, consider adjusting your refrigerator and freezer to colder settings to extend the shelf life of perishable items. Ensure that flashlights and battery-operated radios or TVs are functional, keeping extra batteries on hand. If you rely on Life Sustaining Equipment (LSE) and lose power, dial 911 for immediate assistance, and remember never to use generators indoors. Check on vulnerable individuals in your community, such as older adults and people with disabilities or health conditions, and assist them in their preparations.
• Pet Safety: Make provisions for your pets' safety, including the need to leave your home and to take your pet with you.
•  Plan for Special Needs & Check on Your Neighbors: Make it a point to check on neighbors who are older adults or who may require special assistance. If you have a disability or specific access and functional needs, make sure your emergency plan accounts for how these factors could impact your ability to respond quickly and communicate effectively during a crisis. Seek assistance from your family or service providers as needed.
• Avoidance and Caution: Do not venture into flooded areas. These zones may be contaminated or electrically charged. Take preemptive action by assembling a Go Bag with essentials like food, water, and first-aid supplies.
• Documentation: When it's safe, contribute to our collective flood risk understanding by capturing and submitting photos via the MyCoast portal (mycoast.org/ny) or the MyCoast app. Don't forget to also file flood reports through 311.
• Real-Time Awareness: Stay updated on changing flood conditions by monitoring real-time flood depth via the FloodNet website (floodnet.nyc).

For the latest updates, visit NYCEM’s website, sign up for emergency alerts by visiting the Notify NYC page, or call 311. 

North Cove Wraps Up Construction at 375 West 207th Street in Inwood, Manhattan

 

Construction is wrapping up on North Cove, a 30-story residential building at 375 Wes 207th Street along the Harlem River waterfront in Inwood, Manhattan. Designed by Aufgang Architects and developed by Maddd Equities, the 295-foot-tall structure will span 544,000 square feet and yield 611 affordable rental apartments. The project will also include 60,000 square feet of lower-level retail space, residential amenities, and 120 parking spaces. The property is alternately addressed as 3875 Ninth Avenue and is bounded by West 207th Street, Ninth Avenue, and the Harlem River.

The last sections of metal scaffolding and sidewalk sheds were removed from the lower levels of the western corner since our last update in late May, when the final portions of the base were still temporarily covered. Plastic sidewalk barriers and metal fencing once visible across the first few floors have all been taken out.

Joy Construction Corporation and Maddd Equities are completing the project with the help of $288 million in financing secured in 2023. Wells Fargo’s Community Lending and Investment provided the financial package, which includes a $155 million letter of credit to back NYC-issued tax-exempt bonds arranged by CLI Debt. The remaining $133 million was provided by CLI Equity as an equity investment through the purchase of Low Income Housing Tax Credits and New York State Brownfield Redevelopment Tax Credits.

Residential amenities at North Cove will include bicycle storage, recreation rooms, shared laundry facilities, outdoor lounge and recreation spaces, and picnic areas. The property will also offer public access to an adjacent waterfront park on land provided by the city.

The nearest subway is the local 1 train at the elevated 207th Street station to the west.

KRVC - Boo! On Mosholu Returns October 25th!

 

Get ready for Boo on Mosholu!

We're so excited to announce that our annual Boo on Mosholu event is just around the corner! Mark your calendars for October 25th for a full day of Halloween fun! We're thrilled to be working with PS 81 to make this a spectacular community event.

Join us for an afternoon packed with games, crafts, tricks, and, of course, lots of treats! It's going to be a fun, family-friendly event you won't want to miss. If you have a business on Mosholu Ave and would like to participate, please email us at the email below.

Start Here for the Full Experience!

To make sure you visit all of our participating local businesses and get your prize, all guests MUST start their journey at Hugo's Gourmet Market!

• Starting Point: Hugo's Gourmet Market

• Address: 6469 Broadway Bronx, NY 10471

Visit every location, and you'll receive a fantastic prize at the end!

A special thank you to our event coordinator, Angie Rivera, for decorating Mosholu Ave with her beautiful balloons and more! Did you know? Angie owns a local balloon business, Just 1 Pop Away! Follow her for all of your party needs!

After Boo on Mosholu, head on over to PS 81 for their fantastic Trunk or Treat! Keep the celebration going with even more spooky fun!

Thank You to Our Supporters!

A massive THANK YOU to the amazing businesses and sponsors who help make this event a reality every year! Your support is what brings the magic to Mosholu. We'll be announcing our full list of sponsors and supporters in the coming days, so stay tuned! A huge shout-out out to our PLATINUM sponsor, Ocean First Bank!

Vendor & Table Space Available!

Do you have a small business, craft, or community group you'd like to promote? We have a limited amount of table space available for vendors!

If you'd like to secure a spot to table this fantastic community event, please email laura4bronx@gmail.com as soon as possible to reserve your space.