August 2025: Highlights & What’s Ahead
- Yadira Ramos-Herbert
- Oct 30
- 5 min read
As we reach the heart of summer, I’m proud to share some of the exciting progress, partnerships, and community moments that are moving New Rochelle forward. From major investments in small businesses to expanded youth programs, quality of life improvements downtown, and coverage from local and national media—there’s a lot to celebrate.
Yadira Representing New Rochelle
I am grateful that trusted and reputable media sources have reached out to learn more about exciting and positive developments in New Rochelle. Take a look at some of my favorites:
Crain’s spotlight on Westchester issue.
City Council Highlights: A Productive Season of Progress
The City Council has been hard at work over the past few months. Below are just a few highlights of what we’ve accomplished together on behalf of New Rochelle residents.
1. Quality of Life in Our Downtown:
Our City Manager recently delivered a detailed update on the many steps the City is taking to enhance the quality of life downtown. From cleanliness to safety to code modernization, we are committed to creating a welcoming, vibrant city center.
Here are some key takeaways:
Enhanced Cleanliness & Safety: Increased efforts to maintain clean streets and a secure environment.
Legislative Action:
Modernize outdated sections of our municipal code
Regulate the proliferation of tobacco smoke shops
Ensure massage parlors operate in safe, professional settings
Community Reporting: A new mobile app empowers residents to report issues directly to City departments in real time.
Compassionate Connections: Through strong partnerships with local non-profits, we’re helping connect residents in need with trusted support services.
🎥 Watch the Full Update (20 minutes) or prefer a quick overview? Check out the slide deck.
2. Urban Forestry Update:
In December 2024, ArborPro completed an inventory of 15,590 trees which covers all street trees and most City parks. The data gathered during the inventory and assessment is currently being reviewed and analyzed by certified arborist consultants and City staff to develop a comprehensive maintenance program and management plan.
3. Wading into Science:
This summer, students in the Eco Ambassador program were finally able to enter the water at Five Islands Park to conduct marine science experiments—thanks to an update to the City’s public bathing ordinance. A small code change, a big step for hands-on learning!
The New Rochelle Business Improvement District (BID) recently welcomed Anne Gold as its new Executive Director. We look forward to working together to create a more vibrant, welcoming, and prosperous downtown for all.
5. More Parking, More Housing, More Investment Downtown:
The City Council recently took action to strengthen our downtown by expanding parking access and increasing affordable housing opportunities:
80 New Parking Spaces:
The City Manager has been authorized to negotiate and execute a license agreement for 80 parking spots in a prime location between Division Street and Memorial Highway.
These new spaces will make it easier for residents and visitors to access downtown and support our small businesses. This brings the total number of leased public parking spaces in the area to 118.
Affordable Housing Commitment:
The property owner (Skyline) will set aside 10% of new residential units for households earning up to 70% of the area median income.
Capital Improvements: Skyline will also invest $1.35 million in upgrades to the building.
Bottom line: This agreement delivers more parking, more affordability, and more reinvestment—all right in the heart of our city.
6. City Council Community Meetings: In the spring, the City Council—together with our City Manager and every City department—hosted four community meetings across New Rochelle. These gatherings gave residents a chance to hear updates directly from City leadership and engage with department heads to ask questions, share concerns, and learn more about city services. Take a look at the presentations.
In response to extreme heat conditions, the City Council has authorized the City Manager to partner with key locations throughout New Rochelle to serve as cooling centers for residents in need of relief:
New Rochelle Public Library (Downtown)
Hugh Doyle Senior Center
New Rochelle High School – House 4 Cafeteria
Columbus Elementary School – Cafeteria
Davis Elementary School – Cafeteria
Monroe College – Gaddy Hall
These centers offer a safe, air-conditioned space for residents during periods of dangerous heat. Please share this information with anyone who may benefit from these resources.
8. Supporting Our Service Members:
New Rochelle is proud to honor and support our military personnel and veterans. Recent initiatives include:
Property Tax Extension for Deployed Service Members: In June, the City Council passed legislation granting returning military personnel an additional 90 days after deployment to pay local property taxes without penalties or interest.
Veteran Parking Spaces: A proposal, subject to a public hearing on September 9, would establish designated parking spaces in City-owned lots for active-duty, reserve members, and veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Veteran Banners Downtown: In partnership with the Veterans Advisory Committee, banners honoring New Rochelle veterans are proudly displayed along Main Street and Huguenot, from Echo Avenue to Stephenson Boulevard.
We are grateful for the service and sacrifice of our veterans and their families.
Continuing to Invest in Our People
We remain committed to building a stronger New Rochelle by supporting residents at every stage of life, from our youngest learners to our most experienced neighbors.
Summer Camps: Nearly 600 children are enrolled in City-run summer camps this year.
New Transportation Option: For the first time, 60 children are receiving transportation to and from camp, helping to expand access for more families.
Teen Employment Program: For the second summer in a row, 500 teens are earning $16/hour while gaining valuable experience across City departments and local organizations.
New Rochelle Forward: A second cohort of residents is now receiving workforce training through this impactful local program.
Connecting with Mature Adults: Our Office for the Aging is bringing the services of the Hugh Doyle Senior Center directly to residents in City-designated senior buildings—ensuring easier access to support and community resources.📬 Want to learn more about the Hugh Doyle Center? Sign up for their monthly newsletter.
Coffee with the Mayor: Let’s Stay Connected
Our Coffee with the Mayor series continues! These informal gatherings are a great opportunity to connect with your City and regional leadership, ask questions, and share what’s on your mind.
Upcoming Dates & Locations:
August 23 – Steps of City Hall
September 13 – YMCA
Stop by, say hello, and let’s keep the conversation going!
New Businesses/Expanding Businesses |
We’re proud to welcome new businesses to our community, each bringing unique services, experiences, and energy to our city:
The Joint Chiropractic 📍 2417 Palmer AvenueOffering accessible and affordable family chiropractic care, this new location makes wellness a priority for all ages.
Touch’d Medical Spa 📍 602 North Avenue
Owned by New Rochelle resident and licensed Nurse Practitioner Sheneka Dalmage, this client-focused medical spa blends cutting-edge wellness, anti-aging, and aesthetic services with personalized care.
Sushi by Bou📍 40 Westchester PlaceA high-end Omakase dining experience where craftsmanship meets unforgettable flavor—now available right in the heart of our downtown.
Let’s continue to support these local entrepreneurs and the vibrant business community they represent!
Want more New Rochelle specific information?
Please be sure to check out the city’s calendar which is a nice and easy way to keep track of all of the events taking place in the City. Or sign up for the City Newsletter to stay in touch with City News!
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office with any questions, concerns, or ideas. Let’s keep working together to move New Rochelle Forward.
Regards,
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