• Launching new tools to create more housing – We announced a $4 million grant to boost our Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) pilot, which helps homeowners create smaller, additional units on their properties, like a backyard cottage or a basement apartment. ADUs can provide stable, affordable housing and help New Yorkers remain in their communities. Learn more about ADUs and get updates on creating one on your property here.

• Protecting public safety and improving quality of life – We’re creating a multi-agency coalition to keep people safe on Manhattan’s East 14th Street. By working directly with community members and connecting people in-need with city services, we’re keeping our streets safe and our businesses thriving. Along with a $1 million investment to create a new Mobile Command Center that will maintain a visible NYPD presence and meet neighbors’ needs, these efforts will help protect public safety in a crucial commercial corridor.

• Connecting New Yorkers with disabilities to jobs – We announced that our administration is ahead of schedule to connect 2,500 New Yorkers with disabilities to good-paying jobs over three years and that we are investing even more resources in our Workforce1 Career Centers to prepare individuals with disabilities for careers. Access these job services here. 

↳ Three things to know this week:

1. With weather like we’ve had this past week, it's critical to be prepared. Sign up for real-time Notify NYC alerts to get important weather updates sent right to your phone or email. Our incredible 24/7 team will get you the information you need, right when you need it. 

2. It’s Summer Streets season, and there’s a big Open Street in Manhattan on Saturday (August 10) stretching from the Brooklyn Bridge to West 125th Street! From 7AM to 3PM, there will be free activities and giveaways at rest stops throughout the route, such as yogurt tastings, a Zumba class, and live New Orleans-style jazz. 

3. You can pick up free compost for your garden in Brooklyn and on Staten Island! Our city generates millions of pounds of compost every year, and now you can take home a bag to help your garden thrive. The two locations are open Wednesdays (5PM-7PM) and Saturdays (8AM-10AM) through the end of September. 

↳ Don't forget:

↳ FREE events this weekend:

...you can watch nearly 50 FREE dance performances outdoors next week? The Battery Dance Festival returns for its 43rd year from August 11 through 17! The festival features a diverse variety of captivating performances, such as Indigenous North American hoop dancing, contemporary Romanian choreography, and Chinese opera. Throughout the week, they’re also hosting free workshops and $1 workshops for everyday New Yorkers to break a sweat and learn new moves!

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