New York Mayor Eric Adams revealed a plan on Monday to accommodate up to 2,000 migrants on Randalls Island in the East River. The island had previously hosted a migrant center last year, which was later dismantled after a few weeks.
The state will reimburse the city for operating a tent city to house adult migrants, easing the strain on the city’s resources. The increasing number of asylum seekers arriving daily has put immense pressure on New York’s system, making it a challenging task to find enough beds each night.
In a news release, Mayor Adams, a Democrat, expressed gratitude to Governor Hochul and the New York state for collaborating in the establishment of this new humanitarian relief center and covering the associated costs. However, he also stressed the need for more financial support from all levels of government, including the federal government, to enhance efforts to shelter migrants in New York City.
Over the past year, the city has utilized various locations to house migrants, including rented hotels, a cruise ship terminal, and a former police academy building. Currently, there are more than 57,200 asylum seekers under the city’s care.
Last month, city officials introduced a plan to house 1,000 migrants in the parking lot of a state psychiatric hospital in Queens. Furthermore, in recent weeks, they started sending migrants to recreation centers at two Brooklyn parks, McCarren and Sunset.
Previously, a migrant center was established on Randalls Island in October last year, situated between the boroughs of Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx. However, it was later decided to close the tent complex after the number of people being transported from southern border states diminished.
The new plan to house migrants on Randalls Island aims to provide a safe and supportive environment for asylum seekers while relieving the burden on New York City’s resources amid the ongoing challenges posed by the influx of migrants.