In a significant development for New York City, Mayor Eric Adams has announced the impending closure of the Roosevelt Hotel migrant shelter in Manhattan.
This facility, which was repurposed to accommodate the influx of migrants, has been operational since May 2023. It has played a crucial role in processing over 173,000 migrants, a figure reported by the New York Post.
According to Fox News, Mayor Adams expressed that the closure signifies a milestone in the city's efforts to manage the humanitarian challenge.
"While were not done caring for those that came into our care, today marks another milestone in demonstrating the immense progress we have achieved in turning the corner on the unprecedented international humanitarian effort," Adams stated in a video announcement.
He attributed the decision to the "successful strategies we put in place here in New York City and because of policies we advocated for at the border."
The city's shelter system, which housed approximately 69,000 migrants in January 2024, has seen a significant reduction, with current numbers falling below 45,000. This decline is mirrored in the number of new arrivals, which has decreased from 4,000 migrants per week to an average of 350. During the final weeks of President Joe Biden's administration, the city was receiving 400-500 new requests for assistance weekly, as reported by the New York Post.
The closure of the Roosevelt Hotel shelter, which has been associated with gang activity, is part of a broader strategy by New York City to consolidate resources and reduce taxpayer expenses. In December, Adams announced the closure of 25 shelters, emphasizing the city's commitment to managing the migrant response efficiently.
"Were going to continue looking for more sites to consolidate and close, and more opportunities to save taxpayer money, as we continue to successfully manage this response," he stated.
Despite the closure, city officials assure that migrants arriving after the shutdown will have access to alternative registration locations within New York City. This move reflects the city's ongoing efforts to balance humanitarian responsibilities with fiscal prudence, a challenge that continues to test the limits of local governance and policy-making.
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