New York City Mayor Eric Adams unveiled a $650 million initiative Thursday aimed at combating street homelessness and mental illness, particularly in the city’s subway system. The announcement, made during his annual State of the City speech at Harlem’s Apollo Theater, is part of a broader effort to address public safety concerns amid a series of high-profile subway attacks.
The funding, to be allocated over the next five years, represents a significant push by Adams, a Democrat, to tackle what has become a pressing issue in the city. The announcement comes as Adams faces a federal corruption trial, police department scandals, and an upcoming reelection campaign. During his speech, Adams emphasized his commitment to reducing gun violence and homicides while also bolstering subway safety.
“In the last few weeks, we have seen random acts of violence that have shaken many New Yorkers,” Adams said. “This investment will allow us to expand support for New Yorkers who are living on our subways, wrestling with serious mental illness, and at risk of entering shelter.”
The number of individuals experiencing homelessness in New York City, particularly on the streets and subways, reached its highest level in nearly 20 years last year. Contributing factors include rising rents and a shelter system that many deem overcrowded and unsafe.
A significant portion of the $650 million will go toward creating 900 additional “safe haven” beds—specialized shelters that offer a more supportive environment compared to traditional dormitory-style facilities. Additionally, the plan includes 100 new beds specifically for homeless children and teens, according to Anne Williams-Isom, the deputy mayor for health and human services.
While David Giffen, the executive director of the Coalition for the Homeless, praised the expansion of safe haven beds as a positive step, he cautioned that it would address only a small fraction of the growing need. Giffen also voiced concerns about the focus on high-profile incidents rather than tackling homelessness more comprehensively.
“We need to be focused on meaningfully reducing homelessness in New York City,” Giffen said, noting that people experiencing homelessness and mental illness are more likely to be victims than perpetrators of violent crime.
In addition to expanding shelter options, the city plans to ramp up outreach efforts in the subway system and open a new psychiatric center for people with mental illness who have no place to go after being discharged from hospitals. The location for the new center has yet to be determined.
Williams-Isom explained that the initiative aims to make subways safer while addressing the needs of those with severe mental illness who may be contributing to public anxiety. “At this moment, we have to lean in to make sure the subways feel better, while providing destinations for people who are unsheltered,” she said.
Though citywide crime, including subway crime, decreased last year, felony assaults both above and below ground increased. While violent crime in the transit system remains rare, recent attacks, such as a man being pushed onto subway tracks on New Year’s Eve, a woman being fatally burned while sleeping, and a knife attack in Grand Central Station, have heightened public fear.
Adams, a former police captain, also vowed to increase the number of police officers patrolling subway stations and trains. He has long advocated for a state law that would make it easier to involuntarily commit individuals with severe mental illness who are living on the streets. Governor Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, has expressed support for the measure, but it remains unclear whether it will pass the state Legislature.
Despite criticism, Adams’ plan represents a significant effort to address both homelessness and public safety concerns in the city, though its long-term impact remains to be seen.
