HighBridge, Concourse, Mt. Eden, and Concourse Village
Bronx Community Board 4
Appointed by the Bronx Borough President, half on the recommendation of local Council members. Advisory, but the first government to hear about anything on your block.
Beverly Bond
chair · district manager Leonardo Coello
Fourth Tuesday, 6:00pm
board meetings are public; anyone can speak
77
budget requests to the city this cycle
What this board asked the city for
From the city’s official register, in the board’s own words, ranked by the board’s own priority. The response is the city’s.
Renovate, upgrade or provide new community board facilities and equipmentCommunity Boards play an integral role in dealing with land use and zoning matters, the City budget, municipal service delivery and many other matters critical to the quality of life of thousands of area residents. Our current location does not allow for such engagement, as mandated by the NYC Charter. We are currently located on the 11th floor of a residential building in (2) apartments adapted fCity response (Department of Citywide Administrative Services): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 1Other capital budget request for DOE"The pandemic has underscored the need for more investments in technology to facilitate remote distance learning or a hybrid. The city should pilot different types of online learning tools to determine which work best and make the best performing tools part of the curriculum permanently."City response (Department of Education): Agency does not support and cannot accommodate
priority 1Other request for services for the homelessHOMESTAT should receive increased outreach and DHS funding to more effectively address street homelessness. Shelter conditions must be improved to ensure safety and dignity, and hospitality must reflect participants' rights and humanity, not just politeness. Enhanced security, integrated mental health services, and robust performance tracking across DHS partnerships, including transportation anCity response (Department of Homeless Services): This request has already been completed.
priority 1Other capital budget request for DOEThe enrichment and development of our youth is critical to the well being of the district. We have identified a location for a Youth Center to enrich and develop the youth in the district. The Highbridge Community Center would be located at a location owned by the city where currently the location is being vacated by the FDNY, once the new EMS Station is operational on Morris Avenue.City response (Department of Education): Agency supports and can accommodate
priority 1Improve access to a park or amenity (i.e. playground, outdoor athletic field)Grant Park is to remain current with. Although it was to be completed in stages to permit continued use by children of some areas of the park. However, the development of a series of large sink holes in the children's play area in the park's southwestern quadrant has effectively shut down the entire park indefinitely. This adversely impacts the entire community the park has historically served. CuCity response (Department of Parks and Recreation): This request has already been completed.
priority 1Other senior center program requestsWe are demanding an update on the status of DFTA's "My Ride" pilot program, launched in fall 2021 in several districts including CB4. The service has proven beneficial to participating residents, and we urge DFTA to expand its capacity and coverage. Improved transportation access is essential for older adults to reach medical appointments, social services, and community programs. CB4 calls for incCity response (Department for the Aging): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 1Improve access to a park or amenity (i.e. playground, outdoor athletic field)Claremont Park reconstruction including repairs of sidewalk. Community interest in basketball courts and in indoor pool in the district. The recreational center as well lacks accessibility.City response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency does not support and cannot accommodate
priority 1Improve traffic and pedestrian safety, including traffic calmingInstall higher intensity lighting along Jerome Avenue. This special lighting is needed due to the elevated train lines that cause the area to be dark and unsafe due to poor lightingCity response (Department of Transportation): Agency supports and can accommodate
priority 1Study land use and zoning to better match current use or future neighborhood needsThe ULI Technical Assistance Panel (TAP) conducted in October 2019, made a number of recommendations that would improve existing conditions in the district. While, not endorsing a soccer stadium, the Board likes the recommendations and implementation strategies outlined in the report and urges the city to leverage the TAP as a guide for future development of the area. In particular we would like tCity response (Department of City Planning): Agency does not support and cannot accommodate
priority 1Other expense budget request for DCLAProvide funding and resources so that local cultural institutions like The Bronx Museum and Universal Hip Hop Museum can provide more community programing particularly for young people.City response (Department of Cultural Affairs): This request has already been completed.
priority 1Other capital budget request for FDNYThe Community Board approved site design and voted in support of the ULURP application for the design and construction of the new EMS Station on Morris Avenue. We want to underscore our support for this project and request that once the new facility is operational that the city engage the Community in a substantive conversation about the use of the site. We advocate for a Highbridge Community CentCity response (Fire Department): The agency does not understand the request as written and requires more clarification.
priority 1Other educational programs requests"There is a great need to provide more arts and culture programs for our young people. The City should fund/[partner with Bronx Museum of the Arts, Bronx Children's Museum, Botanical Gardens for example, to create additional programs in school."City response (Department of Education): Agency does not support and cannot accommodate
priority 1Other capital budget request for HPDDevelopment of cooperative-owned housing units in addition to affordable rental housing. HPD should allocate housing subsidy to facilitate affordable owner-occupied housing opportunities in newly constructed buildings in addition to rental housingCity response (Department of Housing Preservation & Development): Agency supports and can accommodate
priority 1Provide a new or expand an existing middle/intermediate schoolThe Jerome Avenue Neighborhood Plan calls for construction of a new 458-seat primary school with a state-of-the art gym. CSD 7 is currently operating near capacity. As part of the Lower Concourse North project the city has agreed to construct a new 572 seat middle school. SCA has released its 2020-2024, likely resulting in additional deficits and capacity issues. We respectfully request siting andCity response (Department of Education): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 1Create or promote programs for education and awareness on preventing chronic diseases including quitting smoking, nutrition, physical activity, etc.To reduce obesity and diabetes, we support expanding Shop Healthy, FRESH, and farmers markets to improve access to fresh produce. Nutritional education should include mental health support to address stress-related habits. With residents under 25, DOHMH should expand youth outreach on safe sex, vaping, substance use, and physical activity. Programs like Wellness in the Schools and Shape Up NYC City response (Department of Health and Mental Hygiene): This request has already been completed.
priority 1Show all 77 requests
Provide better park maintenanceThe Board request a budget line item for a CB4 Parks Administrator. This individual would manage CB4 parks system wide and would be responsible for the following: maintenance, special events, recreational facilities, personnel, developing and helping to establish Friends of groups to assist with maintenance, cleanup, beautification in high trafficked areas, manage grant application and funding strCity response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency supports and can accommodate
priority 1Other garbage collection and recycling infrastructure requests"There has been an increase in the number of rats citywide. One of the challenges is keeping them out of trash and not creating environments they are inclined to inhabit. The City has created the Clean Curbs Program which allows private property owners to apply for sealed, rodent-proof containers on City property for non-DSNY collection. We respectfully request that this program be piloted in the City response (Department of Sanitation): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 1Other capital budget request for SBSA Workforce One Center or an equivalent is still needed in our district, but its offerings should engage many sectors (not just the auto-industry) affected by the pandemic; the service and food/beverage industries were hit particularly hard during the pandemic. The center would bridge the gap between the existing centers with a focus specifically on local needs: large immigrant population (Latino City response (Department of Small Business Services): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 1Other transportation infrastructure requestsWe continue to voice our concerns about traffic conditions in our District and so we continue to advocate for the development of the East 153rd Street Bridge. We stand firm in our support for development of this bridge, which would alleviate traffic congestion along 149th and 161st Streets and local streets in the neighborhood. The proposed bridge would be a single tower cable stayed bridge, locatCity response (Department of Transportation): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 1Other cleaning requests"Location: East 161 Street - Macombs Dam Road & Macombs Dam Road This should be concentrated along commercial corridors (East 167th Street, Ogden Avenue, East 170th Street and 161st Street area.) and other high traffic locations within the district."City response (Department of Sanitation): The agency does not understand the request as written and requires more clarification.
priority 1Other capital budget request for HRAWe recommend that DHS continue strengthening its partnerships with HPD and HRA to increase the number of affordable housing units available to individuals and families whose incomes align with the community average. Currently, many CD4 residents are rent-burdened, paying well above what they can afford. HRA can provide CityFHEPS rental assistance to individuals in need of housing support, an essenCity response (Human Resources Administration): This request has already been completed.
priority 1Other commercial district revitalization requestsCOVID-19 has taken its toll on small businesses. Department of Small Business Services in collaboration with other city agencies (and/or through public/private partnership) should explore new innovative ideas to incubate and support small businesses. The City of Toronto has a business incubator program where they have stalls that small businesses can use rent free to create exposure and ultimatelyCity response (Department of Small Business Services): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 1Create a new, or renovate or upgrade an existing public library"We ask the city to maintain capital funding for our (3) branches Grand Concourse, Highbridge and Melrose. The capital funding will ensure that our branches can continue to meet the growing needs of our communities. Anticipated projects range from major renovations to targeted upgrades, including: - Heating and cooling system updates -Sidewalk and vault work - Exterior rehabilitation -New roof, wiCity response (New York Public Library): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 1Provide, expand, or enhance adolescent literacy programs and services"Providing positive reinforcement to our youth is important and Summer Youth Employment is desperately needed particularly in a District with a meager Area Median Income ($29,832) and nearly thirty-five percent of the population living at the poverty level. DYCD should continue to increase funding for the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) and make it year round. Summer Youth Employment prograCity response (Department of Youth & Community Development): This request has already been completed.
priority 1Expand programs to support MWBE-owned firms and businessesWe should support the sustainability of small businesses throughout the District. EDC and SBS should partner to help small businesses develop business plans and financing packages to support them. SBS, EDC and HPD should partner to expand programs to ensure that housing contracts and construction bids are awarded to more Bronx-based MWBE's.City response (Economic Development Corporation): This request has already been completed.
priority 1Other expense budget request for HPDDevelopment of cooperative-owned housing units in addition to affordable rental housing: HPD should allocate housing subsidy to facilitate affordable owner-occupied housing opportunities in newly constructed buildings in addition to rental housing. Home ownership creates neighborhood stability and reinforces community.City response (Department of Housing Preservation & Development): Agency supports and can accommodate
priority 1Other expense budget request for HRAWith nearly 114,000 individuals, including 65,000 children, currently in New York City's shelter system, the City must strengthen its efforts to permanently house families and individuals. We urge the expansion of eligibility requirements for voucher programs and an increase in HPD's set-aside for formerly homeless residents beyond the current 10%. Organizations such as NAICA, Comunilife, FortunCity response (Human Resources Administration): This request has already been completed.
priority 1Other NYPD staff resources requests"The 44th precinct is one of the most active in the city. We request the City allocate funding for more permanent new officers in the next fiscal year. We specifically would like to see an increase in NCO's and officers in the Public Safety unit."City response (Police Department): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 1Other expense budget request for NYPLNYPL is focused on expanding access to information and enrichment programs for children, teens, and adults. The Library aims to deepen the impact of education programs while nurturing the learning of young patrons through engagement outside of school, expanding services to teens, scholars, and educators, and providing best-in-class skill-building and social connection opportunities for adults, espCity response (New York Public Library): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 1Other capital budget request for DPRBoth the skate park and the bike park in Foster Park are in poor condition and need partial or complete renovations. We respectfully request funding for to continue.City response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency supports and can accommodate
priority 2Other senior center program requestsWe are demanding an update on the status of DFTA's "My Ride" pilot program, launched in fall 2021 in several districts including CD 4. The service has proven beneficial to participating residents, and we urge DFTA to expand its capacity and coverage. Improved transportation access is essential for older adults to reach medical appointments, social services, and community programs. CD 4 calls foCity response (Department for the Aging): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 2New equipment for maintenanceVehicles to replace aging fleet. The Park Department relies on vehicles that are constantly out of service and over five years old. Parks also needs to serve larger parks with smaller, safer and more efficient small utility vehiclesCity response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 2Other capital budget request for DOTLocation: 161 Street - Macombs Dam Road & Macombs Dam Road The entire 161 Street corridor should be resurfaced and is in need of major improvements. Removal and resurfacing asphalt and brick. The Board has complained about this for many years. The redbrick and asphalt along the corridor is cracked and is in serious need of repair. In addition, the texture of the brick does not allow for safe traveCity response (Department of Transportation): Agency supports and can accommodate
priority 2Assign more teaching staff"To accompany request for more programming for the arts and sports the city should hire/assign more staff for these programs in the Capitol District."City response (Department of Education): Agency does not support and cannot accommodate
priority 2Create or promote programs to de-stigmatize mental health needs and encourage treatmentWe urge DOHMH and DHS to expand trauma-informed care and mobile mental health services at existing transitional housing sites. Programs like NAICA, Comunilife, and Fortune Society offer strong models and should be scaled. We support efforts to destigmatize mental health through education and culturally responsive outreach. Programs like StartCare, SOMOS, and Parent Care should be expanded, withCity response (Department of Health and Mental Hygiene): This request has already been completed.
priority 2Provide better park maintenanceWe are requesting additional permanent City Parks workers in Bronx CB4 who clean and cut grass in the parks on a regular basis. It would also allow Parks to staff more sites regularly with "fixed post" employees as opposed to the use of mobile crews to service certain sites. We believe that where possible, a dedicated presence of on-site maintenance staff can allow for more "caring" and detailed mCity response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency does not support and cannot accommodate
priority 2Other transportation infrastructure requests"We request upgrades of the 168 Street Step Street (Shakespeare & Edward L Grant Highway.) Including new handrails, lighting and landings."City response (Department of Transportation): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 2Other cleaning requests"DOT currently has an agreement with DSNY to clean step streets whenever possible. Given the number of step streets throughout the District we request that DSNY add personnel to be able to maintain and service step streets on a more regular basis. One idea might be to increase the number of JWT workers and assigning them to the more heavily utilized Step Streets for regular clean ups."City response (Department of Sanitation): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 2Other commercial district revitalization requestsSBS, EDC and HPD should continue to support and collaborate with the Jerome Avenue Revitalization Collaborative (JARC), to create economic growth for area residents and small business development for organizations like WHEDco and BronxWorks to engage with street vendors to find acceptable locations and obtain licenses to sell wares. In particular working with JARC steering committee members to depCity response (Department of Small Business Services): Agency supports and can accommodate
priority 2Provide, expand, or enhance after school programs for middle school students (grades 6-8)"Community District Four's many working families and single-parent households require no-cost after-school care. Free after-school care allows parents to work and maintain employment, keeps children safe, and enhances children's educational attainment. It also allows families to use scarce financial resources on other pressing needs. Afterschool programs and youth employment are essential needs foCity response (Department of Youth & Community Development): This request has already been completed.
priority 2Other expense budget request for EDCSBS and EDC should partner with HPD and local developers to create our own "local" construction workforce. The initial focus should be on projects sponsored by the City of New York and those receiving city funding.City response (Economic Development Corporation): This request has already been completed.
priority 2Other expense budget request for HPDWe are requesting the equal distribution of income bands to our community. They should reflect the realities of our residents within the five boroughs of New York City. We ask that our elected officials introduce and support legislation that mandates a review of the term sheets. We specifically ask for the exclusion of Westchester and Putnam counties as they provide a false impression of the incomCity response (Department of Housing Preservation & Development): Agency supports and can accommodate
priority 2Other request for services to support low-income New YorkersTo support formerly homeless individuals and families, we recommend reserving 25% of new job opportunities for residents. Collaborate with HRA, WHEDco, BronxWorks, and community-based training programs to build workforce capacity and connect residents to stable employment. Partnering with established businesses and service providers will strengthen job pipelines and promote long-term economic City response (Human Resources Administration): This request has already been completed.
priority 2Other NYPD staff resources requests"The increase in violent crime continues and quality of life continues on a downward spiral as sidewalk parties, booming music from life-size speakers and continued loitering have become the norm. A special mention should also be given to the incredible number of unlicensed motorized vehicles (scooters, mopeds, e-bikes) that operate on the roadways and sidewalks within the District. We urge the ciCity response (Police Department): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 2Other capital budget request for DPRClaremont Park reconstruction/renovate both comfort stations.City response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 3Assign more teaching staff"Computer literacy is critical for our young people to compete and thrive academically and in the workforce. There should be additional funding/resources allocated to programming for computer training and technology."City response (Department of Education): Agency does not support and cannot accommodate
priority 3Provide better park maintenanceCB4 respectfully request additional PEP officers be assigned to borough to assist in maintenance and upkeep particularly during the summer monthsCity response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency supports and can accommodate
priority 3Other transportation infrastructure requests"We request a rehabilitation and reconstruction of the step street at Shakespeare and Anderson Avenue (167thStreet.)"City response (Department of Transportation): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 3Other youth workforce development requests"Trades can provide an excellent career path for those who do not want to attend a two or four year college. Partnering with local unions on apprenticeship programs can provide exceptional opportunities for our young men and women."City response (Department of Youth & Community Development): This request has already been completed.
priority 3Other expense budget request for HPDWhere can CB4 add to its expectation of HPD that it maintains its commitment that all older housing stock be maintained in good condition with landlords making necessary repairs or have consequences levied against their ownership. In addition, HPD should protect renters from unreasonable rent increases for improvements made to buildings and rent increases to apartments when tenants move out. IncreCity response (Department of Housing Preservation & Development): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 3Other capital budget request for DPRMount Eden Mall benches require repair and or replacement of weathered wood seatingCity response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 4Assign more teaching staff"Special Needs Education and resources are often overlooked. We need to allocate more funding and resources to support children in the district with special needs."City response (Department of Education): Agency does not support and cannot accommodate
priority 4Other street trees and forestry services requestsIncrease the number of horticultural employees. Over the years, the horticultural elements throughout CB4 have increased in size and scale. These gardens and landscapes have made the borough more beautiful, but they require an immense amount of maintenance. In order to maintain these gardens, additional employees is needed.City response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 4Other transportation infrastructure requests"We request a rehabilitation and reconstruction of the Carroll Place step street (165 Street to 166 Street)."City response (Department of Transportation): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 4Provide, expand, or enhance adult literacy programs services"Literacy is a major barrier to a high school diploma and beyond. The City should partner with libraries, non-profit organizations and foundations to create"City response (Department of Youth & Community Development): This request has already been completed.
priority 4Other expense budget request for HPDTo strengthen our community to vital housing resources, we propose expanding community visibility. We can host regular tabling events at local CBOs and raise awareness of housing programs and services such as SCRIE, DRIE, Home Base, CityFHEPS, etc. We can simplify the application process for these programs and provide clear eligibility requirements. Additionally, we may request that agencies consiCity response (Department of Housing Preservation & Development): This request has already been completed.
priority 4Other capital budget request for DPRClaremont Park needs repairing or reconstruction of the retention wallsCity response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency supports and can accommodate
priority 5Other educational programs requests"As our young people begin to explore career opportunities the City should create internship and externship opportunities with middle school and high schools students with employers such as the New York Yankee Organization, Montefiore Hospital, BronxCare Health Systems, Hunts Point Food Distribution Center helps facilities in the Capitol District."City response (Department of Education): Agency does not support and cannot accommodate
priority 5Other park maintenance and safety requestsAdditional Playground Associates. Playground Associates are one of the best kept secrets during the summer months. Children can go to their neighborhood playground and have structured activities five days per week during the summer months when they are not in school. As we sorely lack, recreational and community centers, additional Playground Associates are requested for Bronx CB4.City response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 5Other youth workforce development requests"As our young people begin to explore career opportunities the City should create internship and externship opportunities with middle school and high schools students with employers such as the New York Yankee Organization, Montefiore Hospital, BronxCare Health Systems, Hunts Point Food Distribution Center."City response (Department of Youth & Community Development): This request has already been completed.
priority 5Other capital budget request for DPRMacomb Dam Park needs reconstruction of synthetic turf field and added lightingCity response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency supports and can accommodate
priority 6Other educational programs requests"Increase funding to support programs for Special Needs students."City response (Department of Education): Agency does not support and cannot accommodate
priority 6Other park maintenance and safety requestsRecreation Specialists for Recreation Centers Our Recreation Centers are centers of culture, programming, fitness, and inclusion. They host great programming, summer camps, workout classes, and they are a place for children and adults to feel safe. An increase in Recreation Specialists are requested to increase programming in the centers.City response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 6Other youth workforce development requests"Financial literacy including but not limited to budgeting, and investment should be a core competency for our young people. We encourage the city to enhance these programs and engage partners (local banks, financial institutions) to provide seminars and workshops to educate young people on basic principles."City response (Department of Youth & Community Development): This request has already been completed.
priority 6Other capital budget request for DPRAdd a barrier to protect patrons from highway at Summit ParkCity response (Department of Parks and Recreation): This request has already been completed.
priority 7Other educational programs requestsProvide funding for educational and vocational training for foster youth and young adults who age out of the foster care system (18-24 years old) to develop skills that would enhance their development.City response (Department of Education): Agency does not support and cannot accommodate
priority 7Other requests for park, building, or access improvementsActive development of a contiguous path joining the bike/run waterfront paths along Mill Pond Park (in Bronx CB4) to Roberto Clemente State Park (Bronx CB5) which also has a segment of a new bike/running path along the waterfront that ends at a chain linked fence separating the park land from property belonging to the Metro North/MTA train car cleaning facilities at the parks southern border. UsinCity response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 8Other educational programs requestsProvide further funding for educational resources, employment and training for At-Risk and formerly incarcerated youth.City response (Department of Education): Agency does not support and cannot accommodate
priority 8Reconstruct or upgrade a building in a parkThere is a storage house/facility in Franz Sigel that is underutilized. CB4 recommends that this facility be rehabilitated and converted to concessions and used as facility for outdoor concerts and performances.City response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency does not support and cannot accommodate
priority 9Other educational programs requestsProvide funding to support and provide training and employment opportunities for teenage parentsCity response (Department of Education): Agency does not support and cannot accommodate
priority 9Improve access to a park or amenity (i.e. playground, outdoor athletic field)Inwood Park needs repairing of its asphalt and needs new paint.City response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 10Provide a new or expanded park or amenity (i.e. playground, outdoor athletic field)Replace or upgrade all the benches in Claremont Park.City response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 11Other capital budget request for DPRWe request a rehabilitation and reconstruction of the steps streets on 1020 Anderson Avenue (Behind P.S. 73)City response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 12Other capital budget request for DPRMott Playground- Reconstruction/renovation of playground area on Morris Avenue between McClellan Street and East 166th Street.City response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 13Other capital budget request for DPRArcilla Playground - for Reconstruction and renovation of playground behind and originally called the JHS 145 playground, at East 164th Street between Teller Avenue and Clay AvenueCity response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency supports and can accommodate
priority 14Other capital budget request for DPRKeltch Park- Reconstruction and renovation of parks area at Jerome Avenue off of East 170th Street and extends from Macomb Road to Elliot Place.City response (Department of Parks and Recreation): Agency supports but cannot accommodate
priority 15Other capital budget request for DPRReconstruction of the Kwame Ture Recreation Center located at 1527 Jesup Avenue. Needed additions are lighting, water fountains, restrooms.City response (Department of Parks and Recreation): The agency does not understand the request as written and requires more clarification.
priority 16Reach the board
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official1650 Selwyn Ave. Suite #11A Bronx, NY 10457(718) 299-0800 · bx04@cb.nyc.gov
From the city’s official community board directory and the Register of Community Board Budget Requests (updated daily). Member rosters arrive when borough president appointment lists are ingested; meeting summaries arrive with the document tier.