New York City Council Votes To Close Rikers Island

New York City lawmakers have voted to close the Rikers Island Jail complex, replacing it with smaller borough-based jails by 2026. The plan, supported by City Council Speaker Corey Johnson, aims to create safer and more humane facilities. However, there is opposition from locals concerned about neighborhood impacts and potential space issues if crime rates rise. Rikers Island, notorious for its violent conditions, has been a controversial part of NYC since 1935.

What decision did New York City lawmakers make regarding the Rikers Island Jail complex?

What are the expected benefits of the smaller borough-based jails proposed in the plan?

What concerns do locals have about the new jails?

How long has Rikers Island been a source of controversy?

What year did the Rikers Island complex open?