Mayor Eric Adams has launched an intensive multi-agency operation to improve public safety and quality of life in “The Hub,” a major commercial center along Melrose Avenue in the South Bronx.

The initiative, part of Adams’ “Community Link” program, brings together city agencies, law enforcement, and social service providers to address chronic issues such as homelessness, drug abuse, and sanitation.

“Every day, we are working to make our city safer and the best place to raise a family, and today’s announcement will now bring our successful ‘Community Link’ model to ‘The Hub,’” said Mayor Adams.

“Through this multi-agency operation, we’ll work to address substance abuse, mental health, homeless outreach, sanitation, and other quality-of-life issues that prevent this part of the South Bronx from reaching its full potential.”

The initiative, led by the New York City Police Department (NYPD), includes the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), Department of Homeless Services (DHS), Department of Sanitation (DSNY), Department of Transportation (DOT), and the Department of Buildings (DOB).

The coalition also collaborates with nonprofit organizations with deep ties to the community. Deputy Mayor Camille Joseph Varlack highlighted the city’s commitment to neglected neighborhoods: “For too long, the South Bronx has had to deal with these challenges alone. By working alongside our community partners, I am confident that we will drive real change and continue making New York the safest big city in the nation.”

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch emphasized the importance of tackling street-level disorder: “When neighborhoods are plagued by quality-of-life issues, New Yorkers simply don’t feel safe. This multi-agency strategy will address the problems on Melrose Avenue while ensuring those struggling with mental health crises receive the help they need.”

Between October and November 2024, Community Link conducted an intensive surge operation in The Hub, where DHS outreach teams had 880 engagements with homeless individuals, 45 people were placed in shelters through targeted interventions, and DHS crisis coordinators were assigned to provide long-term support. DOHMH has been actively working with community partners to provide treatment and harm reduction services, distributing 16,500 naloxone kits in 2024, funding four syringe service programs operating daily in the area, and supporting seven treatment centers providing opioid addiction services in the Hunts Point-Mott Haven neighborhood.

“We took a crucial step last week with the launch of our ‘Recovering Together’ initiative to combat the opioid crisis,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson. “The devastation in the South Bronx is real, and this intervention will bring resources to those who need them most.”

The Department of Sanitation (DSNY) has tripled garbage collection in The Hub, while the Department of Transportation (DOT) is reviewing road and sidewalk conditions for necessary repairs. The Department of Buildings (DOB) is identifying and enforcing violations on problem properties, ensuring landlords comply with safety regulations. “We are committed to making sure our streets are clean and safe,” said Mayor Adams.

“Whether it’s improving lighting, clearing trash, or holding landlords accountable, every agency has a role to play in improving quality of life.”

Since its launch in 2023, Community Link has responded to over 1,200 complaints, conducted more than 1,200 operations, and expanded into six high-traffic areas, including 125th Street in Manhattan and Roosevelt Avenue in Queens. Mayor Adams reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fighting crime and homelessness. His $650 million investment in street outreach, mental health services, and specialized shelters aims to curb homelessness while addressing public safety concerns.

“This is just the beginning,” Adams stated. “We will not stop until every block, every neighborhood, and every borough is safe, clean, and thriving.”