Mayor Eric Adams, in collaboration with Governor Kathy Hochul and a host of city officials, introduced a comprehensive plan titled “A Blueprint for Community Safety” to mitigate gun violence across New York City’s five boroughs.
The announcement was made at City Hall on July 31, where Mayor Adams emphasized his administration’s role in reducing the city’s homicide and shooting rates.
The 51-page blueprint outlines various strategies to prevent New Yorkers, particularly those in low-income, high-risk communities, from falling victim to or perpetrating gun violence. The plan, which Mayor Adams described as holistic and preventive, is backed by a $485 million budget to enhance public safety efforts.
“Today, we are taking our efforts to end gun violence to the next level with this new ‘Blueprint for Community Safety’ — a more than $485 million dollar plan that will double down on our public safety efforts, invest in our most impacted communities, support our young people and get them on the right path, and activate every level of city government to prioritize prevention-based approaches to public safety,” Adams said in a statement.
Established last summer, the City Gun Violence Prevention Task Force work has been instrumental in developing the blueprint. The task force comprises multiple agency partners committed to making a significant impact on preventing shootings. The blueprint proposes a multifaceted approach to gun violence, encompassing improved police-community relationships, mental health services, and housing security.
The plan emphasizes community engagement, housing, and career opportunities. It outlines seven strategies, including an early intervention program for young people, with $118.3 million allocated to groups offering mentorship to deter youth from gun violence.
The city will also invest $57.5 million in public housing improvements and increased access to various forms of housing. An additional $8.64 million will be dedicated to community vitality, enhancing public spaces like parks and community centers.
The blueprint also earmarks significant funds for employment and entrepreneurship, with $118.5 million set aside for job training to guide youth toward a positive trajectory and well-paying jobs.
It includes $106.7 million for “trauma-informed care,” providing mental health resources and crisis response for those experiencing mental health crises. Furthermore, $2.6 million will be allocated to improve community-police relations through neighborhood safety initiatives.
Governor Hochul praised the plan, highlighting the collaborative efforts with the city to ensure public safety.
She said, “Stopping gun violence is a collective responsibility, which is why the city and state will continue working hand in hand to make our communities safer and create a future where all New Yorkers can thrive.”
