August 20, 2021 - In this issue:
Mayor's Message
Latest Covid-19 Information
Roadwork Update
Arts & Cultural Affairs Position to Open
Volunteer Firemen's Antique Fire Engine Muster
Call for Boards/Commissions Volunteers
August is Celebrate Black Business Month
Live Well Kingston Reiki & Sound Healing Event
A Message From Mayor Steve Noble:

Dear Friends,

I am thrilled that RUPCO will be partnering with the County to purchase the Quality Inn hotel and converting it into supportive housing.

While this location is just over the city line in the Town of Ulster, this new supportive facility will positively impact those in need of housing in our community. This is just the kind of collaborative effort across agencies we need to make long-lasting, significant change. I want to thank RUPCO, County Executive Pat Ryan and his team, Family of Woodstock, and Catholic Charities for their efforts to bring housing and resources to the most vulnerable, and stand with them in support.

-Steve
COVID-19 Information

  • As of Friday, August 20, there are 451 active Covid-19 cases in Ulster County, 54 in Kingston, and there have been 269 deaths across the County. More local resources at Ulster County Covid-19 Information


  • The Emergency Rental Assistance Program is now accepting applications. Details here.



  • The Excluded Workers Fund will provide a one-time payment to workers who lost income between March 27, 2020 and April 1, 2021 but are excluded from state Unemployment Insurance (UI) and federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). Applications are open at dol.ny.gov/EWFApply.
Roadwork Update
Broadway Streetscape: crews are milling as needed in the area of the sewer project (from the Restorative Justice Center to Henry Street). Paving should be completed in this area by Friday, August 20, weather depending.

Milling will begin next week from Henry Street to Pine Grove, and then Broadway will be fully paved from the Roundabout to Pine Grove Ave. Paving is expected to be completed by Thursday, September 2, weather depending.

Broadway/Grand Intersection Improvement: the outline of the new intersection has been rough graded, curbing is being installed and drainage structures have been installed. Poles bases will be poured next week.

Roundabout: final signage is being installed and should be completed by Friday, August 27. Small tree planting will begin Monday, August 23. Larger trees will be planted during the planting season which starts September 15.

Paving: milling began today on Abeel Street from Dunn Street to Hudson St. Paving will begin next week.

Weekly roadwork updates can be found here.
A Note about Changes on Broadway
We are grateful for everyone's patience as the construction on Broadway wraps up.

In the next few weeks, drivers will start to see significant changes to the Broadway corridor from what we are used to driving.

In addition to brand new sidewalks and the beautiful new amenities, the traffic pattern on Broadway will also look a lot different. There will be a protected bike lane with parking between the bike path and street traffic. Traffic will be reduced to two lanes, with one turning lane in the center. Signals will be coordinated to improve traffic flow.

We chose to make an unprecedented investment in the heart of Midtown, and we courage everyone to come back to Broadway! Please visit the businesses that have weathered the construction and give them your support if you're able.

We'll have more information in the coming weeks on how to navigate the new roadway, and please contact us with your questions.
Director of Art & Cultural Affairs Position to Open
The City of Kingston Director of Art and Cultural Affairs, Adrielle Farr, will resign her post on Friday, September 10, 2021 to pursue other opportunities.
 
Farr has been the Director of the Art and Cultural Affair Department since April 2018. The Department was formed by Mayor Noble to support Kingston’s robust artist community, to connect creatives with funding resources, and offer assistance in planning for events, festivals, and programs. During her tenure, she has led the Arts and Culture Master Plan process, created the City of Kingston Cultural Asset Inventory, facilitated the Kingston Art Commission and the annual Distinguished Artist Award, assisted in drafting a Public Art Policy, re-launched Music in the Parks, coordinated with film productions, curated exhibitions in the City Hall gallery space, and so much more.
 
The City of Kingston is actively seeking a new, full-time Director of Art and Cultural Affairs. Qualifications, benefits, and additional information can be found at https://www.kingston-ny.gov/employment.
 
More information on the Arts & Culture Master Plan can be found here, and more info on the Department of Art and Cultural Affairs can be found here
Arts Com. Chair Susie Linn, Mayor Noble, Distinguished Artist Award Winner Lara Hope and Addie Farr
Volunteer Firemen's Antique Fire Engine Muster

Th17th Annual Antique Fire Engine Muster and Open House on Saturday will feature antique, vintage and new emergency vehicles.

Starting at 10am, there will be a raffle for a battery-powered firetruck, a silent auction, and free hot dogs and soda! Don't miss the closing parade at 4pm.
Call for City of Kingston Boards & Commissions
The City of Kingston has 25 boards and commissions. We are always looking for volunteers who want to support these endeavors. Currently there are openings on the following:


To apply, please visit: www.surveymonkey.com/r/KingstonBoards
August is 'Celebrate Black Business' Month
Live Well Kingston Reiki & Sound Healing Event

Join Live Well Kingston this Saturday, August 21 from 3-5pm at Academy Green Park for a free reiki and sound healing event. Bring a blanket, water, snacks, friends and family, and relax in the park while receiving the healing sounds of gongs, bowls and chimes and distance or light touch reiki. 
 
In case of bad weather, check the Facebook event for updates.
Sent on behalf of:
Mayor Steven T. Noble
845.334.3902
mayor@kingston-ny.gov
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