Gen Z is driving a major shift away from traditional ownership and toward a rental-first lifestyle, according to a Fox Business discussion on the growing “rental boom.” Young consumers are now renting everything from clothes and kids’ strollers to glassware, treating access as more important than possession. What older generations might see as a financial red flag, many Gen Zers now see as a smart, flexible way to live—one that allows them to enjoy variety and convenience without long-term commitment or big upfront costs.
The panel highlighted that this rental trend has both lifestyle and environmental benefits. Renting fashion and children’s toys, for example, keeps items in circulation longer and reduces waste compared to fast fashion that ends up in landfills after just a few wears. At the same time, there’s still tension between the pride and responsibility that comes with owning assets and the ease of simply renting what you need, when you need it. The guests cautioned against calling things like clothes or shoes “assets,” noting that most people don’t recoup much value when they try to resell them.
Technology is the backbone of this new rental economy. Subscription platforms and apps now make it easy to rent clothes, accessories, and even household items on demand, in much the same way services like Uber and Airbnb reshaped transportation and travel. Companies such as Nuuly, FashionPass, and rental programs by major brands leverage cloud-based technology to manage inventory, logistics, and customer preferences at scale. The result is a fast-growing business model where Gen Z can constantly refresh their lifestyle—wardrobes, baby gear, and more—without needing to own it all.
Governor Kathy Hochul has opened a second round of the County Infrastructure Grant Program, adding another $50 million to help New York counties upgrade local infrastructure and support more housing, tourism, and community projects. Counties can apply now through April 1, 2026, with grants of up to $1 million for projects that create at least 10 new homes and up to $500,000 for smaller or non-housing projects. The program, run by Empire State Development, builds on a first round that funded 49 projects and more than 2,750 new homes, giving local governments the resources they need to fix aging systems, attract new residents and visitors, and create stronger, more vibrant neighborhoods across the state.
Governor Hochul Announces Additional $50 Million for Second Round of County Infrastructure Grant Program
Applications Now Open for County-Led Infrastructure Projects that Encourage Housing Growth, Placemaking and Tourism . Applications Due April 1, 2026
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a second round of the County Infrastructure Grant Program, which will provide an additional $50 million to support small- and medium-sized county-led infrastructure projects. Modern infrastructure is fundamental to New York State’s economic vitality. By supporting small- and medium-scale projects, the state can maintain its competitiveness, generate additional economic growth and continue to advance Governor Kathy Hochul’s bold housing agenda. Applications will be accepted now through April 1, 2026. Empire State Development (ESD) requires submitting a Letter of Intent (LOI) prior to filing a final application. Links to the LOI and application are available here.
“Coming from local government, I know firsthand how funding for local infrastructure projects can change a community — uplifting residents and providing those communities with a sense of purpose,” Governor Hochul said. “When counties are offered assistance to build more infrastructure, it gives these communities the opportunity to attract more visitors and spur housing development for generations to come.”
Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Growing the state’s housing stock is not just a priority; it is a structural pillar of Governor Hochul’s administration and the essential catalyst for robust, sustainable economic growth. With another round of the County Infrastructure Grant Program, we are making a targeted investment that will provide critical housing stability for New Yorkers. This simultaneous effort will enhance the sense of place and vitality across our communities, creating the groundwork necessary to cultivate new jobs, attract new residents, and welcome visitors.”
New York State Housing and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “With this second round of funding, Governor Hochul is building on the millions already invested to strengthen local infrastructure and unlock more than 2,700 housing opportunities across New York. The additional $50 million will pave the way for more homes, ensuring that counties have the tools they need to grow sustainably. By investing in the foundations of our communities, we are not only expanding the supply of housing, but also fueling economic vitality, supporting tourism, and creating vibrant neighborhoods where families can thrive. We are proud to continue partnering with counties throughout New York to turn these investments into lasting results.”
New York State Association of Counties President Phil Church said, “This innovative grant program provides vital resources that empower counties to strengthen local communities — addressing critical housing needs while upgrading aging water and wastewater systems. The New York State Association of Counties applauds Governor Kathy Hochul, the State Legislature, and Empire State Development President & CEO Hope Knight for their leadership and continued investment in county infrastructure. These partnerships between state and local governments are essential to building vibrant, resilient communities across every region of New York. With this second round of funding totaling $100 M, counties have new opportunities to deliver projects that improve quality of life and lay the foundation for sustainable growth statewide.”
State Senator Sean M. Ryan said, “Strong communities are built on reliable, modern infrastructure, and counties across New York have no shortage of worthy projects that just need the resources to move forward. This program gives local governments the support they need to upgrade aging systems, attract new housing, and lay the groundwork for long-term economic growth. I’m grateful to Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for continuing to invest in the growth of our communities.”
Assemblymember Al Stirpe said, “One of the biggest obstacles to economic development in New York State is housing — and a substantial amount of it for New Yorkers to live and work where they want to. The second round of the County Infrastructure Grant Program takes the housing crisis head-on, building on the success of its initial round to encourage additional housing, placemaking, and tourism in virtually every corner of the state. Small-scale infrastructure projects lacking the capital to get off the ground will get the chance to lift off and go from idea to implementation. This is an exciting opportunity to continue modernizing our neighborhoods and maintaining New York’s economic competitiveness, benefitting both residents and tourists alike.”
The County Infrastructure Grant Program was established to assist counties in developing infrastructure to better meet the needs of New Yorkers. The original $50 million program was included in the State’s FY 2025 Enacted Budget, with an additional $50 million included in the FY 2026 Enacted Budget. Grants of up to $1 million are awarded to priority projects that propose the creation of 10 or more housing units. Projects fewer than 10 housing units, or no housing creation, can receive up to $500,000. Projects are identified by the county and must support economic development, contribute to placemaking or encourage tourism. In July 2025, Governor Hochul announced that more than $37 million was awarded to 49 projects, supporting the construction of over 2,750 new homes, through the first round of the program.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York Yankees All-Star CC Sabathia have opened the $11 million “Harlem Field of Dreams,” a 150,000-square-foot multi-sport synthetic turf complex at Brigadier General Charles Young Playground in Harlem, representing a high-impact public-private investment in urban infrastructure and youth development. Funded through approximately $7.5 million in law enforcement asset forfeiture dollars, complemented by contributions from the PitCCh In Foundation, Major League Baseball and the MLBPA Youth Development Fund, the NFL Foundation Grassroots Program, the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation, the Manhattan Borough President, and the New York City Council, the project advances the Adams administration’s strategic priorities around public safety, community engagement, and equitable access to quality recreational assets. The upgraded facility, coupled with free “Saturday Night Lights” youth programming, is designed to reduce crime risk factors, strengthen community–law enforcement relationships, and enhance long-term social and economic outcomes for Harlem residents, while honoring the legacy of Brigadier General Charles Young and the historic “Harlem Hellfighters” regiment.
Mayor Adams, Yankees All-Star CC Sabathia Open $11 Million “Harlem Field of Dreams” Renovated Athletic Field at Historic Harlem Brigadier General Charles Young Playground
– New York City Mayor Eric Adams was today joined by New York City Department of Parks and Recreation (NYC Parks) Commissioner Iris Rodriguez-Rosa, New York Yankees All-Star CC Sabathia, and members of the Harlem community to celebrate the $9 million transformation of a dilapidated dirt field at Brigadier General Charles Young Playground in Harlem into a state-of-the-art 150,000 square foot multi-sport synthetic turf field, also known as the “Harlem Field of Dreams.” The plan for the now completed project was first announced in Mayor Adams’ 2025 State of the City address earlier this year.
This revitalization project is a key component of a collaborative policing strategy led by the Adams administration, city agencies, and local community-based organizations aimed at transforming the relationship between communities and law enforcement. It builds on the administration’s upstream approach to public safety in New York City, which invests in free programming to keep young people safe and engaged when not in school. By focusing on youth development and violence prevention initiatives, the Adams administration continues to invest in a safer and more connected future for everyone — already contributing to a significant reduction in major crimes across the five boroughs, especially in shootings and homicides.
“If you build it, they will come, and today, we are announcing the completion of the ‘Harlem Field of Dreams’ as we make children’s dreams come true,” said Mayor Adams. “This $11 million project not only fulfills another one of our State of the City commitments by transforming a once-dilapidated field into a vibrant and enriching space where more than 800 young people can play baseball, football, soccer, and lacrosse, but also upholds our promise to making the smart, upstream investments that prevent crime in the first place. Today, we are giving hundreds of families both a safe place to send their children and an outside space for them to grow in as we continue to make New York City the best place to raise a family.”
“Today, we are proud to officially open the newly renovated athletic field at Brigadier General Charles Young Playground. The ‘Harlem Field of Dreams’ is now a reality — a space where Harlem’s young people and families can come together, play, and thrive,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Rodriguez-Rosa. “With a new synthetic turf field that supports multiple sports and expanded community programming, we are not only providing state-of-the-art facilities, but also creating lasting opportunities for health, connection, and growth. By honoring the legacy of Brigadier General Charles Young, this field will continue to inspire future generations for years to come.”
“Giving back has always been at the heart of everything I do,” said CC Sabathia, founder,PitCChIn Foundation. Through the PitCCh In Foundation, we’re proud to support spaces that empower young people to dream, grow, and thrive. This field represents opportunity, resilience, and community—values that shaped me growing up and continue to inspire me today. New York has become my second home, and I’m honored to help build brighter futures right here.”
The newly renovated athletic field at Brigadier General Charles Young Playground now accommodates five sports — baseball, softball, soccer, football, and lacrosse. The upgrades to the park include improved drainage and water detention, a new synthetic turf surface, drinking fountains, fencing, backstops, benches, dugouts, and a sports mister.
The renovation builds on earlier improvements made by the Adams administration in 2023, including new asphalt and fencing for the main basketball court, repairs and new coatings for three basketball courts, and the conversion of one court into a soccer pitch. The field house bathrooms are also set to be upgraded with $2.5 million in funding provided by the Mayor’s Office, the City Council, and the Manhattan Borough President’s Office.
In addition to the capital improvements, free youth sports programming will be offered on the new field through the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development’s Saturday Night Lights program. This initiative gives young people safe spaces to play, while building trust between law enforcement and communities — helping youth develop skills and relationships that will support their future success.
General Charles Young was born into slavery on a Kentucky plantation in 1864. A year later, his family escaped and settled in the abolitionist town of Ripley, Ohio. Young went on to become the third Black graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and served over 30 years in the U.S. Army. His career included historic appointments as the first Black national park superintendent, the first Black military attaché, and the first African American to reach the rank of colonel, making him the highest-ranking Black officer in the Army until his death in 1922.
In 1917, the U.S. Department of War forcibly “medically retired” Young, halting his promotion to general in response to resistance from white officers. To demonstrate his fitness for duty, the 53-year-old Young undertook a 497-mile horseback ride from his home in Ohio to Washington, D.C., though his appeal was unsuccessful. In 2022 — 100 years after his death — Charles Young was posthumously promoted to Brigadier General by the U.S. Department of Justice, recognizing his exemplary service and contributions to breaking racial barriers.
The Brigadier General Charles Young Playground in Nort Central Harlem is located just north of the 369th Regiment Armory, home to the “Harlem Hellfighters,” an African American regiment that saw more combat than any other unit during World War I and was one of the most decorated in the Army. The playground and landmarked armory together celebrate African American military heritage.
“Local Initiative Support Corporation’s partnership with the NFL Foundation and the New York Jets is devoted to increasing the quality, safety and accessibility of fields and play spaces. The Brigadier General Charles Young Park is essential to the health and sustainability of youth and families in the Harlem community,” said Beverly Smith,vice president, sports and youth development, Local Initiative Support Corporation. “For more than 25 years, our partnership with the NFL Foundation has resulted in over 450 new and improved recreation facilities across the country that are serving generations of neighborhood youth and communities.”
“Brigadier General Charles Young Field holds extra significance as it is the 125th Youth Development Park opened by the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation across the country,” said Cal Ripken, Jr., vice chairman, Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation. “I cannot believe how much of an impact the foundation named for our father has made. This is only accomplished through relationships with other organizations that share a passion for helping kids. Thank you to the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, and the Parks Capital team for making sure that this field was not only built but will continue to be a resource for New Yorkers in the years ahead.”
“When we invest in our young people, we invest in a safer future for all New Yorkers,” said Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. “I am proud to celebrate the culmination of this years-long effort to make Brigadier General Charles Young Field a place where young New Yorkers can play sports, make friends, and be mentored by caring adults in a safe and beautiful space. My office was proud to contribute to this renovation and to work alongside the many public servants and Harlem leaders that made today a reality.”
In this segment, President Trump reaffirms his support for U.S. strikes on alleged drug trafficking boats and pointedly leaves the door open for potential land operations in Venezuela. He highlights that, in his view, more than 90% of narcotics arriving by sea have been stopped and frames the maritime campaign as a series of “pinpoint attacks” that are “saving hundreds of thousands of lives.” The messaging clearly positions these actions as part of a broader strategy to increase pressure on Nicolás Maduro’s regime and to treat the narcotics flow as a direct national security threat.
The report then focuses on the controversy surrounding a two-strike incident on a suspected drug vessel in September. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth states he watched only the first strike live before leaving the room, after which operational control rested with Admiral Frank Bradley. According to U.S. officials cited by Fox News, Bradley authorized the second strike to fully sink the vessel, arguing it could have posed a threat to other ships or allowed survivors to call for armed backup. Hegseth references the “fog of war,” noting that fire, explosions, and smoke made it impossible to clearly see survivors in real time.
Finally, the piece highlights the growing political and legal scrutiny in Washington. Both Democrats and some Republicans are questioning whether the second strike could qualify as a war crime under international law and U.S. rules of engagement. Lawmakers on the House and Senate Armed Services Committees are expected to press Admiral Bradley for detailed explanations in upcoming briefings. As a result, the Venezuela pressure campaign and anti-drug operations in the Caribbean are becoming not only a foreign and security policy issue, but also a test case for how far U.S. military force can be used in counter-narcotics missions without crossing legal and ethical red lines.
