The largest migrant center in New York City is set to close, according to Mayor Eric Adams, because of a consistent decline in the number of people using shelters.
On February 28, 2025, the Humanitarian Emergency Response and Relief Centre on Randall’s Island, which houses adult single or married asylum seekers, will close. According to city officials, the park’s surrounding parkland and athletic fields will be restored after the closure.
Decline In The Numbers
The choice to shut down the center was justified by the decline in the number of people seeking asylum in New York City. The administration took pride in its asylum seeker management tactics, which included case management, 30- and 60-day notices, and reticketing.
After falling for 14 weeks in a row, the number of asylum seekers in municipal shelters has now reached its lowest point in more than a year.
The largest residential tent structure on Randall’s Island, which housed approximately 750 cots, will be dismantled as part of the shutdown. The city wants to gradually reduce the population of the center over the next months.