Governor Hochul Announces $3.3 Million to Support Three Projects in Queens

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $3.3 million in State funding to support three projects throughout Queens.

"Every New Yorker deserves a safe and thriving community with access to the resources and services they need to succeed," Governor Hochul said. "These dollars will support necessary projects across Queens from expanding workforce training opportunities to strengthening food access and improving neighborhood safety. The quality of life of all residents will remain at the forefront of my administration."

The investments include $1.5 million to support a new training facility at the Springfield Gardens Educational Campus, $1 million to support the expansion of RIVER FUND's Food Distribution Center, and $800,000 to support lighting upgrades around the Queens Supreme Court on Sutphin Boulevard to improve public safety. The funding will be administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York.

Dormitory Authority of the State of New York President and CEO Robert J. Rodriguez said, "DASNY is proud to support projects that strengthen communities and create new opportunities for New Yorkers. These investments in workforce development, food security, and public infrastructure will have a lasting impact across Queens, helping residents access critical services, prepare for in-demand careers, and benefit from safer public spaces. We thank Governor Hochul and our local partners for their collaboration in advancing these important community priorities."

Springfield Gardens Educational Campus Training Facility

The $1.5 million in State funding will be used to support the launch of a revolutionary Electrical Trade Laboratory and Vocational Training Program at the Springfield Gardens Educational Campus which houses four co-located high schools. The project will establish new electrical and HVAC laboratories at Springfield Gardens Educational Campus and Campus Magnet. Funding will support laboratory renovations, professional equipment and safety upgrades. Students will receive hands-on technical training and have the opportunity to earn elective credits and industry recognized certifications.

RIVER FUND Food Distribution Center

RIVER FUND is one of the largest providers of emergency food in New York City. Serving more than 40 zip codes, RIVER FUND distributes more than one million pounds of groceries and needed essentials per month, serving more than 35,000 households each year.

The $1 million State grant will support the creation of new space for RIVER FUND to expand its food distribution operations, as well as to offer educational and workforce training programs to community residents.

Lighting Upgrades Around Queens Supreme Court to Improve Security

The $800,000 State investment will help with fencing and new lighting upgrades around the Queens Supreme Court on Sutphin Boulevard to improve community public safety and security.

State Senator Leroy Comrie said, "Our community organizations and schools do vital work every day, and they need facilities that allow them to serve our neighbors well. This $3.3 million investment will help more Queens families put food on the table and give our young people hands-on opportunities to prepare for good paying careers. It will also make needed safety improvements to our public facilities. I thank Governor Hochul for supporting these projects and our local partners for their continued commitment to the people of Queens."

State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr. said, "Governor Hochul's $3.3 million in State funding supports Queens by aiming to strengthen and expand job training as well as increase access to emergency food and public safety."

Assemblymember David I. Weprin said, "I am thrilled to see Governor Hochul's historic investment in RIVER FUND! RIVER FUND is one of the largest and most trusted community food providers in Queens, serving thousands of families each week and distributing more than one million pounds of food each month. Their 35 year legacy goes beyond addressing food insecurity to include educational, workforce, and youth development programming designed to help families achieve long-term stability and economic mobility. I am a loud and proud supporter of RIVER FUND, and I look forward to seeing how this critical investment will allow them to grow and continue uplifting the community."

Assemblymember Alicia L. Hyndman said, "I am elated that the Electric Trade Laboratory and Vocational Training Program, which is in my district, are among the projects to receive state funding in Queens from Gov. Hochul. The $1.5 million for the launch of an electrical training program will mean so much to the students and faculty of the Springfield Gardens Educational Campus, which has four schools. Far too often, co-located schools get short changed when it comes to funding, but with this training program our young scholars will have opportunities to get credentials that will set them up for high-paying careers as the state seeks to electrify buildings."

Assemblymember Khaleel M. Anderson said, "RIVER FUND is a lifeline for our neighbors in South Ozone Park and families across Queens facing food insecurity. I was proud to advocate for this funding to help RIVER FUND expand its Food Distribution Center and get more food and essentials into the hands of families who need them. Thank you to Governor Hochul for this $1 million investment and the RIVER FUND team for showing up for our community every day."

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr, said, "There has never been a better time to invest in Queens, and that includes putting the necessary funding forward to strengthen the societal infrastructure of The World's Borough that countless families rely on. These critical investments will undoubtedly feed those battling food insecurity, prepare our students for the careers of tomorrow and keep Southeast Queens safe. Thank you to Governor Hochul for her partnership in not only uplifting families across this borough, but elevating the organizations that do life-changing work every day right in our communities."

New York City Council Member Selvena N. Brooks-Powers said, "This is incredible news for Queens, and I applaud Governor Hochul for her continued investments in the World's Borough. I am excited to see the $1.5 million investment in a new training facility at Springfield Gardens Educational Campus, which will equip our young people with hands-on skills and pathways to meaningful careers, and the $800,000 investment in lighting upgrades around the Queens Supreme Court on Sutphin Boulevard, which will help enhance public safety for residents and visitors alike."

New York City Council Member Lynn Schulman said, "RIVER FUND has been an essential resource for families across Queens, providing groceries and basic necessities to thousands of households who rely on these services," said Council Member Lynn Schulman. "By expanding its Food Distribution Center, RIVER FUND will be able to strengthen its critical work and continue meeting the needs of our community. I commend Governor Hochul for this important investment and for recognizing the vital role organizations like RIVER FUND play in addressing food insecurity and supporting New Yorkers in need."