Hochul talks infrastructure, housing, and mental health in fireside conversation (video) | Fingerlakes1.com

Governor Kathy Hochul addressed critical issues affecting New York during a fireside chat hosted by Crain’s New York Business and the Partnership for New York City on Monday. Topics ranged from infrastructure and public safety to housing affordability and economic growth.

Hochul emphasized her administration’s commitment to rebuilding the city’s infrastructure and addressing public transit needs, calling these initiatives a “lifeline” for the Central Business District, which sees 6.5 million daily commuters. “I need the subway system to be world-class. This defines us,” she said, calling the project a potential “legacy” for her administration.

The Governor also highlighted congestion pricing, set to launch in early January, which aims to reduce traffic, enhance public transportation funding, and improve environmental outcomes. While acknowledging the challenges the plan faced, Hochul defended her decision to reduce the initial pricing by 40%. “We need to unclog the city and get it functioning at a higher level,” she said.

Public Safety and Mental Health

Amid concerns over recent violent crimes, Hochul reinforced her administration’s focus on mental health services. She cited a $1 billion investment in mental health initiatives and highlighted partnerships with New York City, including subway outreach programs that have transitioned over 700 homeless and mentally ill individuals into supportive housing.

Hochul called for stronger legislation to address public safety, including changes to bail laws and corrections policies. “The system failed,” she said, pointing to recent high-profile incidents. “I will go back with every tool in my kit to address this.”

Housing Affordability and Economic Development

Addressing New York’s housing crisis, Hochul described the prohibitive cost of living as a significant barrier to retaining residents and businesses. She outlined plans to increase affordable housing development through office-to-residential conversions, expanded housing incentives, and tackling bureaucratic obstacles. “The rent’s too damn high,” she declared, adding that younger generations face an uphill battle in homeownership.

Hochul also celebrated the economic impact of recent initiatives, including the $100 billion Micron semiconductor project in upstate New York, which she called the largest private sector investment in U.S. history. “This will create 50,000 jobs and transform the economy,” she said, noting the ripple effects across the state.

Collaboration and Leadership

The Governor emphasized her willingness to work across political lines, citing her experience in a Republican-majority congressional district. She also highlighted the importance of relationships with federal leaders to secure resources for infrastructure and social programs.

On her approach to governance, Hochul said, “I’ve worked closer to consensus. You don’t have to leave blood on the battlefield to get things done.”

Looking Forward

Hochul expressed optimism about the state’s future, pointing to ongoing efforts to strengthen public safety, modernize infrastructure, and create economic opportunities. “I’ll never rest on our laurels,” she said. “There’s always another deal to be made.”

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