March 6, 2020 - In This Issue:
A Message From Mayor Steve Noble:

Dear Friends,

This week we had a public safety forum at City Hall, where community members talked about their concerns and fears regarding a recent rash of gun violence in our city. It was deeply upsetting to hear that so many aren't feeling safe, or don't feel comfortable talking to law enforcement. There are a number of initiatives we have done and plan to do to improve community-police relations to address these issues. 

At this moment, public safety is our highest priority. T he Kingston Police Department will be partnering with the Ulster County Sheriff's Office and New York State Police to combat crime in our community.  New York State Police will be providing multiple vehicles each day for patrol, and three deputies from the Ulster County Sheriff's Office will be assisting KPD's Special Investigative Unit for cases involving guns, narcotics and gang activities.
 
While we recognize the need to start at the root of the issues surrounding gun violence, right now there is an immediate need to ensure that every person feels safe. I believe the increased presence of law enforcement in our city, and the additional assistance to investigations will help our community get through a difficult time. 
 
-Steve
Weekly Roadwork Update

The NYS Department of Transportation is currently starting two major projects in Kingston: the I-587 Roundabout and the Empire State Trail connection on Greenkill Ave. The City will be communicating weekly updates for roadwork and related construction, as well as updating the public about Central Hudson's gasline replacement work, when we have that information available.  

Starting next week, there will be roadside construction along Greenkill Avenue that may cause intermittent traffic delays. 

Central Hudson will be holding an Open House at City Hall in the Council Chambers on Tuesday, March 10, 2020 from 6:00-8:00pm to give information on upcoming gas main work and answer any questions. 

Starting on/around March 16, Central Hudson will resume gas-line replacement work in the City of Kingston, starting with Elmendorf Street, Tremper Avenue and Belvedere Street.  

For a full list of streets that will be affected by Central Hudson utility line replacement this construction season, please visit: www.cenhud.com/gas-projects

Weekly updates regarding all of these projects will be posted on the City's Facebook page and the City website's homepage under " Service News."

City's Office of Grants Management 2019 Annual Report

Mayor Steve Noble and the Office of Grants Management are pleased to release the department's 2019 Annual Report. To see photos from last year's projects and what the Office of Grants Management has in store for 2020, see the   2019 Grants Management Annual Report .
 
The Office of Grants Management has had a landmark year, currently managing a portfolio of over 60 projects that are funded by approximately $38.7 million in grant funding with $52.8 million in anticipated total project costs. In 2019, major grant-funded projects were completed including Kingston Point Rail Trail Phase 1 and the Cornell Street Sidewalk Project, while more than a dozen projects progressed to the design phase in preparation of implementation.
 
In 2019, the Office of Grants Management assisted in securing funding for: the Broadway/Grand Street Intersection Improvements Project; a community mobile stage; a chess playground in T.R. Gallo Park, and an Anti-Displacement grant. Two WIIA grant applications resulted in $2.2 million for sewer infrastructure improvement projects, and CFA grant applications resulted in awards for four projects totaling $4.7 million.
 
Additionally, staff created webpages for every grant project and the office was able to expand capacity by hiring a new Grants Manager.
Coronavirus Safety Tips

There are no confirmed cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Ulster County at this time, however, we are preparing. 

Mayor Noble is participating in daily conference calls with Governor Cuomo and his response team so that we are up-to-date on all available information and taking every necessary precaution. Ulster County has created a team to respond to our area's needs. Marc Rider, who is leading the County's efforts, will be on the Mayor's radio show on Monday to discuss these efforts. In the meantime, for additional information and resources, visit:  www.ulstercountyny.gov/coronavirus

Please review these simple steps that can help spread this and other respiratory viruses.  
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Individuals who are experiencing symptoms and may have traveled to areas of concern, or have been in contact with somebody who has traveled to these areas, should call ahead to their health care provider before seeking treatment in person. If you are having a medical emergency, call 911.
 
Other resources: 

Kingston Women's Bike Festival on Sunday

The 2nd Annual Kingston Women's Bike Festival -- day of free and fun workshops and presentations for women who are new to cycling--  will be held this Sunday, March 8 from 10:00am-4:00pm at the Everette Hodge Community Center. 

The festival line-up includes a special presentation from Courtney Williams, known as the Brown Bike Girl, complimentary lunch, raffles, and child care with an RSVP. Spanish interpretation will be available.  R egistration at:  http://bit.ly/KWBikeFest  

This week on "Monday's with the Mayor" on Radio Kingston, Mayor Noble talked to Emily Flynn, the City's Health & Wellness Director about the Women's Bike Festival. Listen here!

Summer Youth Employment Program Applications Open


Kingston Post Office's Passport Day on Sunday March 15

The Kingston Post Office located at 90 Cornell Street will be open for a special passport event on Sunday, March 15, 2020 from 8:30am to 5:00pm. This a great time for people to get their passports during non-business hours!

Kingston 311
The  Kingston 311 app, website and phone  system allow residents to quickly and easily report issues and submit service requests. The Kingston 311  app, available for  Android  &  iPhones , is a fast and simple way to connect to City officials in non-emergency situations. 

This system is a valuable resource to submit service requests for streetlight replacement, roadwork, City signage, traffic calming measures and other concerns. Issues with snow removal and reporting of vehicles and sidewalks not in accordance with the Snow Emergency restrictions can also be submitted via Kingston 311.  Photos can also be attached to illustrate service orders. Dial 311 from any phone within City limits to reach us. 
Kingston Happenings
The City of Kingston often receives requests to share upcoming events happening in our community. Our partners at 
KingstonHappenings.org  do an excellent job of centralizing this community information. So while our website is the best resource to gain information about City of Kingston sponsored events and important municipal information, Kingston Happenings can give you a greater preview of community events. Check them out today!
Sent on behalf of:
Mayor Steven T. Noble
845.334.3902
mayor@kingston-ny.gov

The purpose of this newsletter is to share important information, project updates, pictures and news from the City of Kingston. For more detailed information, visit: