NYC NOW

Mayor Adams’ former Muslim community liaison, Mohammed Bahi, is planning to plead guilty to a conspiracy charge. Plus, a Brooklyn woman is suing the Flatbush Gardens Complex for allegedly failing to protect her family from a neighbor who shot and killed her husband and son. Also, WNYC’s Michael Hill and Charles Lane talk about new initiatives aimed at making straphangers feel safer on the subway. And finally, a winter storm watch is in effect for the area this weekend.

New York State is shutting down live bird markets in and around New York City amid concerns over avian flu. Plus, a community kitchen in Greenpoint is throwing an all-gender beauty pageant to raise funds for Brooklyn Community Kitchen. Finally, New York City hospitals are sharing guidance with their employees in the event federal immigration officials show up. But as WNYC's Caroline Lewis explains, some of the guidance is prompting more questions.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this episode did not include our weekly transit segment, On The Way. It has since been updated. Some New Jersey drivers are struggling to find parking in Upper Manhattan following the implementation of congestion pricing. Plus, former Giants quarterback Eli Manning misses out on the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Finally, we dive into the latest transit news in our weekly segment On The Way.

A group representing major tech companies, like Meta and Google, is backing Gov. Hochul's plan to restrict cell phones in schools. Plus, Mayor Adams’ budget testimony put him face to face with a couple of his challengers in this year’s mayoral race. And finally, WNYC’s Michael Hill and Jessica Gould discuss what educators and parents can do if ICE shows up at their doors.

New York City’s public hospital system is urging patients to continue seeking medical care regardless of their immigration status, while also instructing staff not to actively help patients avoid ICE. Meanwhile, Mets first baseman Pete Alonso has agreed to a $54 million, two-year contract extension with the team. Plus, MTA Chair Janno Lieber is set to testify in Albany, where he will push for a $65 billion transit plan and work to convince lawmakers and the public that the agency can be trusted with taxpayer dollars. WNYC’s Michael Hill talks it through with transit reporter Stephen Nessen.

A winter storm is bringing snow and freezing rain across the region, causing school delays in New Jersey, Long Island, and Connecticut. Meanwhile, New York City hospitals are advising staff on how to handle visits from immigration officers, clarifying when they must grant access to federal agents.

New York lawmakers are scrutinizing a proposal to enhance mental health treatment, raising concerns about facilities and care. A Canadian diplomat warns local officials about the potential rise in energy costs due to tariffs. Meanwhile, Adult Protective Services struggles to help more New Yorkers despite increasing referrals. Lastly, discover exciting free events this February to celebrate Black History Month while navigating the city's vibrant culture.

A Brooklyn woman is suing her landlord for $10 million, claiming negligence after a fatal shooting by a neighbor. A winter weather advisory is in effect for NYC, warning of icy roads and snowfall. Mayor Eric Adams is advocating for reforms to discovery laws, which play a critical role in evidence sharing within the criminal justice system. Discussions highlight the complexities of these changes and their implications for public safety, alongside rising concerns about case dismissals and evolving voter priorities.

The push for tighter immigration controls ignites heated debates in Albany, raising questions about local cooperation with federal authorities. Meanwhile, the MTA seeks a whopping $65 billion to improve NYC's transit system, hoping for state and federal backing. On a lighter note, a bird flu outbreak has sent egg prices soaring, putting pressure on local delis and bodegas trying to maintain the beloved bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich. It's a mix of serious policy talk and the everyday impacts on city life.

Brooklyn is gearing up for a major rezoning plan, potentially adding 4,500 new homes and job opportunities. New York's Attorney General warns that refusing gender-affirming care could violate anti-discrimination laws. In Lodi, New Jersey, a passionate group of teens is riding the waves, cultivating a unique surfing community despite being landlocked. Finally, the podcast highlights a spectacular parade of planets visible in NYC's night sky this February, along with tips for stargazing and insights about the fascinating star Betelgeuse.