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The Roosevelt Hotel, once a bustling hub for migrants seeking refuge in New York City, is set to close its doors as a shelter in the coming months. Mayor Eric Adams made this announcement, highlighting a significant shift in the city’s approach to the ongoing migrant crisis.
With the number of asylum seekers in the city decreasing, the closure marks a pivotal moment in the city’s response to the humanitarian situation that has unfolded since spring 2022.
Declining numbers signal a shift in the crisis
In recent months, the average number of migrants entering city care has plummeted to around 350 per week, a stark contrast to the peak of 4,000 weekly arrivals.
This dramatic decline reflects the effectiveness of the strategies implemented by the Adams administration, as well as changes in federal policies. The mayor expressed optimism about the progress made, stating, “Today marks another milestone in demonstrating the immense progress we have achieved in turning the corner on the unprecedented international humanitarian effort.” The city has seen a total of 232,000 migrants arrive since the crisis began, but the current figures indicate a significant reduction in new arrivals.
Challenges faced at the Roosevelt Hotel
Since its transformation into a migrant shelter in May 2023, the Roosevelt Hotel has encountered numerous challenges. Reports indicate that the facility became a hotspot for gang activity and faced issues with overcrowding, leading some migrants to sleep in cars outside.
The hotel, which boasts approximately 1,000 rooms, was initially repurposed to accommodate the influx of migrants bussed from southern border states. However, the reality of managing such a large population proved difficult, with the city at one point housing around 69,000 migrants in its shelter system.
Future plans for migrant support in NYC
As operations at the Roosevelt Hotel wind down, City Hall assures that migrants will still have access to other locations for registration and support. The Adams administration plans to close a total of 53 migrant shelter sites, including tent cities, by June.
This strategic move aims to streamline resources and improve the overall management of the city’s migrant population. Despite the challenges faced, the city remains committed to providing care for those who have sought refuge in New York, even as the landscape of the crisis continues to evolve.
In light of the recent developments, the city has also taken legal action against the Trump administration to recover $80.5 million in funding for migrant support. This lawsuit underscores the ongoing complexities of managing the migrant situation amid shifting political landscapes and funding challenges. As New York City navigates these changes, the focus remains on ensuring that the needs of migrants are met while addressing the broader implications of the crisis.
