In his 10th State of the City address, Mayor Ras J. Baraka reflected on a decade of transformative achievements and outlined the city’s future trajectory. The comprehensive report highlights advancements in crime reduction, homelessness, quality of life, workforce development, equitable housing, and innovations in arts, culture, recreation, and technology.
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1. Crime Reduction and Public Safety
Mayor Baraka’s commitment to public safety and community well-being has resulted in a remarkable 60 percent decrease in violent crime. The Newark Police Division collaborated with community-based violence interrupters, investing $3 million in therapeutic and crisis intervention services. Additionally, the Newark Fire Division secured $5.4 million in federal grants for new staff and equipment, hiring new firefighters and promoting others.
2. Transportation and Homelessness Services
The NewarkGo program, offering over 2,000 affordable scooters and bicycles, has provided nearly 75,000 riders with more than one million rides. Homelessness services in 2023 yielded a 57.6% decrease in the unsheltered population, with initiatives such as a $2.9 million grant for crisis services and a texting service to alert outreach teams.
3. Workforce Development, Entrepreneurship, and Equitable Housing
Under Mayor Baraka’s leadership, the city has prioritized workforce development and equitable housing. Invest Newark’s programs and classes have empowered entrepreneurs, resulting in 25 graduates creating over 100 full-time jobs. The Summer Youth Employment Program secured $2.7 million, engaging over 100 interns and shaping the next generation of Newark’s leaders.
4. Equitable and Affordable Housing
The Department of Economic and Housing Development reported over 12,000 housing units under construction or in the application process. Measures like the Live Newark Program, Guaranteed Income Pilot, and Affordable Connectivity Program have significantly impacted housing affordability, with $5.1 million injected into the local economy.
5. Arts, Culture, Recreation, and Senior Services
The Arts and Education District, opened in 2023, has become a cultural hub, hosting events like the Afro Beats festival and the Lincoln Park Music Festival. Initiatives by the Department of Arts and Cultural Affairs, including the Creative Catalyst Fund and support for Newark Symphony Hall, have strengthened Newark’s creative community. The Department of Recreation and Senior Services has generated over half a million activity touches, supporting community-focused conferences and events.
6. Community Engagement, Wellness, Literacy, and Technology
The Office of Community Engagement has facilitated events like the Latina Empowerment Brunch and the Newark Latin Festival, promoting inclusivity and celebrating diversity. In education, the city has received recognition from former President Barack Obama’s My Brother’s Keeper Alliance Model and implemented various programs to improve literacy and healthcare.
7. Technological Advancements
Invest Newark and the Office of Information Technology have expanded internet access, providing over 700 public housing units with Newark Fiber. The Newark Builds Newark program has equipped residents for careers in virtual reality, wind-energy construction, drone piloting, and fiber optics development. Public Wi-Fi expansion, including Harriet Tubman Square and Halsey Street, enhances connectivity across the city.
Mayor Ras J. Baraka’s State of the City Address demonstrates Newark’s significant progress over the past decade and lay out a promising roadmap for the future. The city’s commitment to community engagement, innovation, and inclusivity positions Newark as a model for urban development and positive change.
