

NYC NOW
WNYC
NYC NOW is a feed of the most up-to-date local news from across New York City and the region. With three updates a day, every weekday, you'll get breaking news, top headlines, and in-depth coverage. It’s all the news you need to know right now to make New York work for you.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 25, 2025 • 9min
Evening Roundup: Millions Roll in from Congestion Pricing, Wildcat Strikes at NY Prisons, and Efforts to Revive AirBNB in NYC
Congestion pricing in NYC has generated nearly $48 million, sparking debates over its future. Wildcat strikes at state prisons continue, raising concerns about workers' conditions and prison reform. Homeowners advocate for changes to Airbnb regulations, facing challenges amid new legislation. The discussion also highlights the struggles of homeownership amid evolving short-term rental laws, emphasizing the need for policies that balance residents' needs with the hotel industry's interests.

Feb 25, 2025 • 7min
Midday News: Former NY Rep. Anthony Weiner Launches City Council Bid, MTA Expands Electric Train Service, Beth Israel Moves Closer to Shutdown
Former Congressman Anthony Weiner is making headlines with his city council bid, raising eyebrows due to his controversial past. Meanwhile, the MTA is ramping up efforts for a cleaner future by expanding electric train services, promoting zero-emission technology. On a somber note, Beth Israel Hospital faces closure amid fierce community resistance and legal challenges, spotlighting urgent issues surrounding healthcare access in the city. The implications of these developments reveal a complicated intersection of politics, environmentalism, and community well-being.

Feb 25, 2025 • 4min
Morning Headlines: Mayor Adams Rejects Calls to Resign, Coast Guard Ends Search for Missing Boater, State to Address Rising Insurance Costs for Affordable Housing, and NYC Unveils High-Tech Flood Gates
Mayor Eric Adams faces pressure amid rising controversies and calls for his resignation. The U.S. Coast Guard halts its search for a missing boater after a tragic mishap. Property owners of affordable housing in NYC express concerns over soaring insurance costs, prompting state intervention. To combat climate challenges, city officials unveil cutting-edge flood gates as part of a $349 million plan aimed at protecting Lower Manhattan from rising sea levels and storms.

Feb 24, 2025 • 10min
Evening Roundup: NYPD Gang Tracker Under Scrutiny, High-Tech Flood Barriers to Protect Manhattan, Youth Vaping Lawsuit and a Community Champion
Tensions rise as the NYPD faces scrutiny over its gang tracking system, sparking debates on discrimination and crime prevention. Innovative flood barriers are showcased to protect Manhattan’s Two Bridges from climate threats. An attorney general takes a stand against e-cigarette companies, targeting their role in the youth vaping crisis and violations of flavored vape laws. Meanwhile, a dedicated volunteer at a community food pantry highlights the importance of trust and support in combating food insecurity.

Feb 24, 2025 • 10min
Midday News: MTA Reports $48 Million in Congestion Pricing Revenue, Roosevelt Hotel Shelter to Close, and Our Public Song Project
Simon Close, Producer of WNYC’s Public Song Project, shares insights on the exciting initiatives surrounding public domain works. He discusses how the project successfully brings music and community together. Simon highlights recent musical gems and literary classics entering the public domain, inspiring new artistic creations. The conversation also touches on an upcoming song contest that encourages fans to engage with these timeless pieces. Expect a playful take on classics like 'Singing in the Rain' that showcases the joy of public domain creativity!

Feb 24, 2025 • 2min
Morning Headlines: Mayor Adams Defends Diversity Programs and NY Prison Strike Continues
Mayor Eric Adams emphasizes the importance of protecting diversity initiatives in New York City as federal policies shift. He discusses city programs that support minority-owned businesses and affordable housing efforts. Meanwhile, a prison strike disrupts operations, prompting the deployment of National Guard troops to manage the situation. Ongoing issues like transportation delays and the implications of recent events in the prison system are also explored.

5 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 10min
Midday News: No Cuts to 9/11 Health Program, NYC’s First Racial Equity Plan, Yankees End Facial Hair Ban, Gov. Hochul Refuses to Oust Mayor Adams, and Malcolm X’s Legacy in Queens
New York Congress members celebrate the preservation of health program funding for 9/11 survivors. The city prepares to unveil its groundbreaking racial equity plan. In a surprising twist, the Yankees lift a 50-year ban on facial hair, ushering in a new era for players. Meanwhile, Governor Hochul stands firm on her decision regarding Mayor Adams, ensuring oversight remains in place. The legacy of Malcolm X is explored, uncovering his often-overlooked struggles in Queens, shedding light on his life beyond the public persona.

Feb 21, 2025 • 13min
Morning Headlines: Gov. Hochul Decides Against Removing Mayor Adams, Long Island’s Water at Risk, Yankees Extend Boone’s Contract, and the Future of Congestion Pricing
Governor Hochul opts not to remove Mayor Adams, emphasizing that voters should determine his future. Long Island faces environmental crises with aging sanitation impacting water quality. The Yankees solidify their leadership by extending manager Aaron Boone’s contract. A deep dive into the contentious issue of congestion pricing reveals divided opinions among New Yorkers and legal hurdles ahead, alongside insights into the express bus program improving Staten Island commutes, showcasing the complexities of urban transit.

Feb 20, 2025 • 10min
Evening Roundup: Hochul Won’t Remove Adams, AG James Targets E-Cigarette Companies and Resettlement Agencies Lost in Limbo
The podcast tackles Governor Hochul's controversial decision to retain Mayor Adams despite federal corruption charges. It dives into Attorney General Letitia James's bold lawsuit against e-cigarette companies preying on youth. Additionally, the struggles of refugee families in upstate New York are highlighted, showcasing the obstacles faced by resettlement agencies due to funding cuts and federal policies. Personal stories reveal the pressing need for continued support for those seeking a fresh start.

Feb 20, 2025 • 8min
Midday News: Life Expectancy Rises in NYC, Calls to Remove Fluoride from Water, and Congestion Pricing Is Again in Limbo
New data reveals life expectancy is bouncing back in New York City, a welcome shift post-pandemic. However, some residents are raising concerns about fluoride in the drinking water, sparking debates within the community. Meanwhile, congestion pricing faces uncertainty once again due to political maneuvering, as the tolls remain for now. Experts discuss the potential economic impact of congestion pricing, emphasizing its capacity to save the city billions by reducing traffic congestion.