Senator Serrano's Community Report

Dear Neighbor,

I hope this newsletter finds you and your loved ones well. Summer in our city has brought moments of celebration, but it has also reminded us how quickly our communities can face unexpected challenges. Whether we’re responding to severe weather, investing in safer public spaces, supporting small businesses, celebrating our rich cultural heritage, or connecting neighbors with new opportunities, one thing remains constant: our work is rooted in showing up for our community.

In this newsletter, you’ll find updates on the work my office has been doing across the Bronx and Manhattan—from securing $1 million toward the reconstruction of the Joseph Yancey Track and Field, to celebrating community leaders and cultural milestones, supporting job seekers and small businesses, and sharing important resources for New Yorkers recovering from recent flooding.

As always, my staff and I are here to help in any way that we can. Please feel free to contact us at 212-828-5829, visit our District Office, or stop by to speak with us at our weekly constituent hours.

I look forward to continuing to see you all throughout our community!

Yours in progress,

Senator José M. Serrano

Chair of the Majority Conference

Important Updates

Legionnaires' Disease Outbreak in Our Community

Earlier this month, the NYC Department of Health announced an outbreak of Legionnaires' Disease in Carnegie Hill and Yorkville. Our office has continued to closely monitor the situation, and has been in regular communication with the Department of Health for updates. As of Thursday, July 23, there have been 84 confirmed cases across ZIP codes 10028, 10128, and 10075. To date, there have been five deaths related to Legionnaires;' our hearts go out to their loved ones in this difficult time.

The NYC Department of Health has been conducting thorough testing of cooling towers throughout the effected area to locate the source. 183 cooling towers across 160 buildings have been tested. All 51 cooling towers that tested positive for live Legionella bacteria have been cleaned and disinfected.

Anyone who lives or works in this area, or who has visited the area since late June, and is experiencing flu-like symptoms, such as cough, fever, or difficulty breathing, should contact a health care provider immediately. NYC Health + Hospitals and 311 can help you find a health care provider, regardless of your immigration or insurance status.

Legionnaires' disease cannot be spread from person to person, and your tap water remains safe for drinking, cooking, and bathing. You can learn more about the current public health guidance and recommendations from the New York City Department of Health in the email below.

Learn More

Joseph Yancey Track and Field at Macombs Dam Park

With very few accessible outdoor spaces in New York City, it is critical that we invest in the ones we do have. Joseph Yancey Track and Field is a beloved recreational space used by athletes, runners, students, coaches, families, and community members. The current state of the track has been brought to the attention of many, and Senator Serrano shares the growing concern over the current poor and unsafe conditions.

As one of New York City’s most historic running spaces, the Joseph Yancey Track and Field deserves to be restored and invested in for the next generation. This track and field is in dire need of a full renovation and Senator Serrano is happy to share that he has committed $1 million towards the comprehensive reconstruction of the field.

Our office will continue to update you on this project as we push to close the funding gap to get this vital reconstruction project underway. If you have any further questions on this project, please reach out to our office!

Events and Happenings

Eddie Palmieri Way Street Naming

Senator Serrano joined the Palmieri family, fellow elected officials, musicians, and community members in East Harlem for the co-naming of Eddie Palmieri Way, honoring the legendary musician's lasting contributions to the neighborhood and Latin music.

The ceremony celebrated Eddie Palmieri's extraordinary cultural legacy and the impact his music has had on generations of New Yorkers. He was proud to recognize an artist whose work helped shape the identity of El Barrio and continues to inspire communities around the world.

NYC Culture and Arts Summer Celebration

As Chair of the Senate Committee on Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks and Recreation, Senator Serrano attended the NYC Culture and Arts Summer Celebration at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

The event brought together cultural leaders, advocates, and institutions from across New York City to celebrate the close of another successful budget season and reaffirm the importance of investing in the arts. Senator Serrano remains committed to supporting New York's vibrant cultural community and expanding access to the arts for all.

Lincoln Center Summer for the City

Senator Serrano attended Lincoln Center's Summer for the City performance series, celebrating the music, dance, and cultural traditions that bring New Yorkers together.

The annual series offers free performances and events that make world-class arts programming accessible to communities across the city. He was pleased to join residents in celebrating another successful evening of culture and community.

WE ACT Membership BBQ

Senator Serrano joined WE ACT for Environmental Justice for its annual Membership BBQ, bringing together residents, advocates, and community partners.

The event celebrated WE ACT's ongoing work to advance environmental justice throughout Northern Manhattan and the South Bronx. Senator Serrano appreciates the organization's continued leadership and looks forward to continuing their partnership on issues impacting local communities.

Horizons Juvenile Center Oversight Inspection

Senator Serrano joined Assembly Member Amanda Septimo and Senator Luis Sepúlveda for a joint legislative oversight inspection of Horizons Juvenile Center following reports regarding conditions inside the facility.

During the visit, the delegation met with facility leadership, staff, and the young people in their care to better understand the challenges facing the facility. Senator Serrano remains committed to strengthening oversight and improving safety to ensure every young person in state custody is treated with dignity and provided the support they deserve.

Mayor Mamdani's Small Business Press Conference

Senator Serrano joined Mayor Zohran Mamdani, fellow elected officials, and small business owners at La Bodega Studio for the announcement of the City's Open for Small Business Executive Order.

The initiative aims to reduce paperwork and streamline processes for small businesses, helping entrepreneurs spend less time navigating bureaucracy and more time serving their communities. Senator Serrano remains committed to supporting policies that strengthen local businesses and neighborhood economies. To learn more about the reform, click the link below.

Learn More

Community Job Fair

Senator Serrano partnered with the New York State Department of Labor to host a Community Job Fair at Lincoln Hospital, connecting residents with employers from a wide range of industries.

More than 600 job seekers attended the event to explore career opportunities and connect with hiring employers. Senator Serrano thanks the participating organizations, employers, and community partners who helped make the event a success.

Upcoming Know Your
Housing Rights Seminar

Senator Serrano is proud to partner with Legal Services NYC and Hostos Community College on Tuesday, July 28 from 6:00pm to 7:30pm for a Know Your Housing Rights Seminar.

Join us at Hostos Community College's Savoy Multi-Purpose Room for a free presentation on tenants' rights, housing protections, and available resources. The event will conclude with a live Q&A where you can ask Legal Services NYC's housing team your questions.

Pre-registration is required. Register using the link above to reserve your spot.

New York State Senate
Summer Reading Program

Summer is the perfect time for children to explore new worlds, spark their imaginations, and strengthen their reading skills. The New York State Senate is proud to support the 2026 summer reading program, themed “Unearth A Story".

This free program encourages children of all ages to read for fun and discovery all summer long.

How It Works:
Participating students can submit their completed reading form by August 21, 2026. Students will receive an official summer reading certificate recognizing their dedication and achievement.

Why Participate?
· Supports families and educators in promoting literacy at home
· Helps prevent the “summer slide” and keeps students engaged
· Encourages a lifelong love of books and learning
· Offers a fun and meaningful way to spend summer break

Create a Submission

FREE Upcoming Community Events

Albany Office:
418 State Capitol
Albany, NY 12247
(518) 455-2795

District Office:
335 E 100th St.
New York, NY 10029
(212) 828-5829