NEW YORK, NY – Mayor Eric Adams has confirmed a lease agreement between New York City and the federal government to use Floyd Bennett Field as an emergency site for sheltering asylum seekers.
The mayor’s announcement comes in response to the increasing number of asylum seekers arriving in the city, a total exceeding 113,300 since spring 2022. Mayor Adams thanked Governor Kathy Hochul for her commitment to fully reimburse the city for the site’s use.
Adams emphasized the need for federal action, stating that the current measures are insufficient for managing the ongoing crisis. He criticized the absence of a long-term plan and mentioned that the crisis necessitates more than just opening new sites.
Mayor Adams called for expedited work authorizations for asylum seekers, a federal declaration of emergency, increased federal funds, and a comprehensive strategy involving both state and federal governments.
The announcement is seen as a step towards greater cooperation between state and federal agencies in addressing the asylum seeker crisis.
