New York City officials are considering shutting down the streets to tackle the migrant housing crisis as new arrivals are expected. Read to know more.
What is the migrant housing issue in NYC?
Officials in NYC are reportedly considering the possibility of shutting down the streets to house migrants. Several new arrivals are expected in the US as the pandemic-induced restrictions on asylum in the US end this week. Officials reveal they are bracing for about 800 new asylum seekers every day after Title 42 expires this week. The US has been using immigration law for expelling asylum seekers in the name of averting the spread of coronavirus. President Biden commented on the issue, warning it may be “chaotic for a while”.
A CBS New York report revealed a confidential memo showing one of the options was closing “large sections” of the city’s streets for temporary housing made up of shipping containers. “Being on the street bed would provide access to water, sewer, and electricity and could then support trailers or modular/prefabricated housing,” revealed the memo. Other options being considered include migrant housing in school gymnasiums, federal installations, and cruise ships. Additionally, NYC Mayor Eric Adams ordered city agencies to find properties for accommodating people.
More on the issue
On Tuesday, Gov. Hochul issued an executive order allowing the state to mobilize more members of the National Guard. The move is expected to help in speedy reaction to food and other supply needs. She stated that the order declaring a “state disaster emergency” will allow for mobilizing of extra National Guard members. They will provide logistics and operational support. “With Title 42 set to expire, the circumstances on the ground are expected to change significantly. And this executive order will be an important part of our coordinated response. I have spoken to Mayor Adams and county executives throughout New York as we work to address this situation,” she explained.
Fabien Levy, Adams’ press secretary stated the federal government must also do more to help in terms of migrant housing. Last month Adams stated NYC “is being destroyed by the migrant crisis” urging the Biden administration to provide more help. Earlier he also suggested that looking after asylum seekers, a requirement under the right to shelter law may bankrupt the city.
