NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani Renews $1.86 Billion Contract for Hotels to Double as Homeless Shelters

The New York Post reported Sunday, August 2, that New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani extended a $1.86 billion hotel housing contract to preserve emergency shelter capacity citywide. The renewal with the Hotel Association of New York City Foundation covers nearly 300 hotels and supports the Department of Homeless Services’ right-to-shelter mandate. The contract, finalized in January 2025, runs July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2029, and was negotiated under former Mayor Eric Adams, the outlet said. A DHS spokesperson said hotels will be used as needed while new shelters open and reliance on commercial sites is reduced, especially for families with children. Officials added the city may not spend the full allotment; as of July 31, shelters housed 82,929 adults and children.