Queens Borough President Donovan Richards delivered his powerful 2025 State of the Borough Address at the Queens Theatre on April 25, reaffirming his vision for a borough rooted in diversity, equity, and community empowerment.
Richards began his address by emphasizing the core values that define Queens: diversity, equity, and inclusion. He acknowledged the challenges facing the borough, particularly from federal policies targeting immigrant communities, and firmly rejected these divisive measures. "We can choose to accept Washington’s warped vision for America, or we can choose each other,” Richards declared. “I choose you, Queens—the borough that builds bridges, not burns them.” Despite the external threats, Richards reinforced that Queens remains a beacon of unity and inclusion. His administration continues to support marginalized communities and promote economic growth, particularly among immigrant families.
Education was another major focus of Richards’ address. He highlighted over $78 million in investments made to improve schools across Queens, including new culinary arts teaching kitchens at the Jamaica Educational Campus and a $10 million expansion for the Variety Boys and Girls Club in Astoria. He also outlined the development of new schools to address overcrowding, such as a 547-seat elementary school in Long Island City and an annex at Forest Hills High School. “We are not just filling seats; we are preparing our students for the future,” Richards said. He also emphasized the importance of career-focused education, such as the Motion Picture Technical High School and the Northwell School of Health and Sciences, both aimed at preparing students for the industries of tomorrow.
Richards shared plans to expand healthcare access with a $180 million partnership with Memorial Sloan Kettering to create the borough’s first-ever standalone cancer center at Jamaica Hospital. Richards also discussed the $30 million Gotham Health Clinic in Rockaway Village, which will serve up to 19,000 patients annually when it opens in 2027. “Our healthcare system must reflect the needs of our diverse communities,” Richards emphasized, noting that local access to high-quality care is essential for Queens residents.
The address also highlighted transformative projects that will reshape the borough, including over 2,500 affordable housing units being developed at Willets Point, alongside schools, parks, and commercial spaces. A new $132 million aquatic center in Southeast Queens will provide recreational space for local families. Richards reinforced that development should create opportunities for all, not just buildings. “This is not just about buildings; it’s about building futures,” he said.
Richards also discussed major investments in Queens' infrastructure, such as the $5.5 billion Interborough Express connecting Queens and Brooklyn, which will significantly reduce commute times. The $30 million redesign of the Queens bus network will improve service and connectivity across the borough. “Transportation is the great equalizer,” Richards said, emphasizing the need for accessible and efficient transit options for all residents.
Environmental sustainability was another key focus. Richards shared plans to invest $44 million in park improvements, including spaces like Cunningham Park and Baisley Pond Park. He also highlighted the transformation of the Ravenswood Generating Station in Long Island City into a renewable wind energy hub, which will power 700,000 homes. “We must invest in the health of our planet just as we invest in the health of our people,” Richards stated.
While his address focused on a broad range of issues, Richards also took a moment to recognize the Jewish community in Queens. His administration has worked closely with the Queens Jewish Community Council (QJCC) and Jewish leaders to support community events, including the annual Purim hamantaschen crawl and efforts to combat antisemitism. “Queens is a place where all cultures, all faiths, and all people are not just tolerated, but celebrated,” Richards remarked, reinforcing his commitment to interfaith solidarity and combating hate in all its forms.
Several prominent figures joined Richards at the State of the Borough Address, each contributing their thoughts on the borough’s progress and future.
Adrienne Adams, Speaker of the New York City Council, praised Richards for his leadership in ensuring Queens continues to thrive despite national challenges. “Queens is a great representation of America,” she said, emphasizing the borough’s unity and resilience under Richards' leadership. She also pointed to Richards’ commitment to supporting arts and culture, which is central to the borough's identity, adding that, “Queens thrives because it is culturally rich, and arts investment is critical to our future.”
Mayor Eric Adams attended and voiced his support for Richards' vision, writing on social media, “Great to hear @QnsBPRichards lay out his vision for an even stronger Queens at this year’s State of the Borough address!” The mayor highlighted Queens’ central role in New York City’s success and praised the ongoing partnership between the City and Borough President’s office. “Queens is where the future is being built,” he noted, referencing key infrastructure projects and economic development in the borough, including the ongoing revitalization of JFK and LaGuardia airports.
Jumaane Williams, Public Advocate for New York City, expressed his admiration for the borough’s diversity, emphasizing that Queens’ mix of cultures is a model for the nation. He commended Richards for his strong leadership, which unites the borough’s diverse communities. “Queens is not just a borough; it is a global example of how diversity can lead to strength,” Williams said. He also praised Richards' efforts to protect vulnerable communities and ensure that they continue to have a voice.
Melinda Katz, Queens District Attorney, spoke about the collaboration between her office and the Borough President’s office, particularly in promoting public safety and addressing crime. She acknowledged the progress made in neighborhoods like Far Rockaway and Southeast Queens, where Richards has secured vital investments in healthcare, infrastructure, and community safety. Katz praised Richards for his unwavering support for justice and equity, noting that his leadership has been instrumental in shaping a safer and more vibrant Queens.
Richards concluded his address by reiterating that the future of Queens will be shaped by its residents, not external forces. "The state of our borough is precarious. But its future is not predicated on anyone or anything beyond our borders. We decide what our future looks like,” he declared. The challenges ahead may be great, but Richards is confident that Queens’ residents will continue to rise to the occasion. “We are the keepers of our own flame,” he said, calling on all Queens residents to help build a future of opportunity and promise.
Richards’ address highlighted the many achievements Queens has made in education, healthcare, housing, transportation, and sustainability. His administration’s investments in these areas are setting the stage for a future where all residents—regardless of background—can thrive. “Queens is the greatest place in the world because we are the world’s borough. So when we talk about fighting back, protecting our immigrant communities from attack is where we must start,” Richards said.
By Shabsie Saphirstein
Queens Rising: Building A Stronger, United Borough For The Future
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