Since being sworn in as mayor of Hastings-on-Hudson on December 2, 2025, Tom Drake has focused on infrastructure improvements, transparency, and community engagement. In his first ninety days in office, Drake officiated two weddings and attended a memorial service for a resident alongside former Mayor Armacost.
Drake reported that the village secured $1.092 million in federal funding to continue stormwater management projects along Farragut Parkway. This funding aims to reduce flooding in the Fenwick and Rosedale Avenue neighborhoods. Additional work is underway for the Edgars Lane, Zinsser Park, and Riverview Place areas.
Efforts to improve pedestrian safety are ongoing at several intersections, including Ravensdale Avenue at Rosedale Avenue; Villard Avenue at Calumet/South Calumet Avenue; and the Main Street corridor. The Safety Council is also reviewing conditions at Washington Avenue at Aqueduct Lane and Mt. Hope Boulevard at Hamilton Avenue. The village recently enacted local laws to add stop signs at T-intersections throughout Hastings-on-Hudson.
To increase public engagement, Drake introduced a second public comment period during Board meetings after Board discussions so residents can respond without waiting until the next meeting. A Trustee Liaison Program was established to strengthen communication among the Board of Trustees and various committees and departments. “I remain committed to being more transparent in communications with the community, including informing residents of meeting information and current topics the Board is discussing,” said Drake.
In efforts to support downtown businesses and residents, Hastings-on-Hudson is working with Tylin Engineers on pedestrian safety enhancements along Main Street. Plans are under consideration for three-hour free parking downtown as well as designated residential and business parking zones.
The Board of Trustees passed a resolution condemning abuses by ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) and CBP (Customs and Border Protection), calling for comprehensive review and reform of those agencies. Another resolution urged New York State to strengthen immigration protections.
Hastings-on-Hudson received a perfect score of 100 out of 100 on the Municipal Equity Index (MEI), which evaluates how inclusive municipal laws, policies, and services are for LGBTQ+ residents and employees.
“These efforts reflect what makes Hastings-on-Hudson such a special place to live,” said Drake. “I am looking forward to building on this progress and continuing the work ahead.”
More information about village initiatives can be found on their official website: http://hohny.gov
