NYC NOW

Congressman Mike Lawler makes waves by deciding against a run for New York governor, choosing to focus on his congressional re-election instead. Meanwhile, a New Jersey panel denies a key appointment extension for the interim U.S. Attorney. In Plainfield, a community rallies together after devastating flash floods, which tragically claimed two lives. Efforts to rebuild are underway, and a remarkable fundraising campaign has raised over $84,000 to help those impacted, while proactive measures aim to prevent future disasters.

Immigrant communities in New York are on high alert after a warning from a top immigration official. In Queens, redevelopment plans for a hospital into low-income senior housing are moving ahead, but $8 million in lost federal funds means fewer green energy upgrades. Meanwhile, New Jersey residents should brace for rising electricity bills next year due to a recent deal between energy companies and the state.

Mayor Adams unveils a $21 million investment in after-school programs for thousands of students. New York joins a lawsuit against the Trump administration over cuts to services for undocumented immigrants. Additionally, rebate checks are set to be distributed this fall despite federal aid reductions. A controversial call for city-owned grocery stores sparks debate across the boroughs. The conversation delves into food access and highlights the crucial role of community markets like Essex Market in ensuring affordable groceries.

New York schools are racing against time to implement a smartphone ban in classrooms after a state push for stricter measures. In legal news, multiple states, including New York and New Jersey, are suing the Trump administration over policies affecting undocumented immigrants' access to social services. Additionally, two suspects have been arrested in connection with the shooting of an off-duty Customs agent, raising concerns about safety and crime in the city.

A New Jersey base may soon host immigrants, raising civil rights concerns. In a controversial court ruling, a Central Park carriage horse driver was found not guilty of abuse. Meanwhile, Battery Park is set for a much-needed facelift. Tensions rise over a bike lane in Brooklyn, with safety advocates at odds with the local community as political maneuvering unfolds. Finally, a new report scrutinizes how congestion pricing influences air quality in Manhattan, suggesting mixed outcomes.

A federal border officer is recovering after being shot during a robbery attempt in Riverside Park, where he heroically returned fire. New York City is also addressing housing safety by proposing new rules for basement apartments to better protect tenants from flooding. Adding a cultural twist, Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani takes a break from campaigning to visit his roots in Uganda, highlighting the significance of heritage in his journey.

Ramsey Khalifeh, a WNYC reporter specializing in transportation, discusses the long-anticipated Second Avenue subway project and its implications for East Harlem. He highlights the community's mixed emotions, balancing hope for better accessibility against fears of gentrification. The dialogue touches on the history of delayed transit investments and the emergence of a business improvement district aimed at revitalizing the area. Through resident testimonials, Khalifeh paints a vivid picture of a neighborhood on the brink of transformation, yet anxious about its future.

New York City's crime reduction efforts are ramping up as Mayor Adams expands a targeted program. Meanwhile, New Jersey faces potential losses in Medicaid funding, affecting low-income families. On a lighter note, Wollman Rink is undergoing a beach volleyball transformation, attracting elite players to Central Park. Plus, New Yorkers using SNAP benefits can enjoy free visits to the Museum of Natural History, adding a cultural bonus to their weekends.

The Legal Aid Society has put a strike on hold, calling for better pay and manageable caseloads. Andrew Cuomo argues that NYC needs the authority to control its rent regulations. In a poignant case, a judge has dismissed manslaughter charges against a 12-year-old involved in an accidental shooting of his cousin, prioritizing mental health support over punishment. The discussion also highlights the pressing issues of gun safety and the responsibilities of firearm owners in protecting children.

Law enforcement unions are rallying behind Mayor Adams' reelection, emphasizing results in public safety. Meanwhile, NYC is grappling with a mosquito surge due to unusual summer weather. In a quirky twist, a woman took a subway joyride in Queens, raising eyebrows about transit security. Heavy rains have caused flooding issues that challenge the city's aging infrastructure, while the controversial removal of a bike lane in Williamsburg stirs political tensions. Lastly, the redesign of Queens bus routes promises to enhance connectivity for underserved neighborhoods.