An Introduction to NYCuriosity

An introduction to this Substack and my mission.

My Background & Motivation

Like many others around the world and over the past two centuries, it had been my dream to move to NYC for as long as I could remember. From an early age I had an interest in American history, culture, the opportunities of big cities, public transit, and living in a diverse and mutli-cultural community. NYC was the pinnacle of these interests and offered an opportunity to live an ambitious, career-driven life in a walkable and dense city. I first moved here in August 2022 and have loved it from the moment I got here. The more time I've spent walking around the historical and lively neighborhoods and enjoying the city's endless amenities, the more I've known this is where I want to spend the rest of my life.

But these experiences living in New York and my own background in economic research have also made me aware of the many flaws in how the city operates and the vast room for improvement. I see the many ways that housing costs have hampered the ability for others to live and survive in NYC. I've talked to friends and met residents from around the city who struggle with inconsistent transit service and our overburdened city agencies. I've been stuck in FDR traffic and worry about rent increases every year.

The Plan

It's my goal to use my data science and research background to contribute to solutions to NYC's myriad challenges, including but not limited to its affordability crisis. I plan to be a part of the discussions shaping the city's future by contributing a data-driven perspective to our urban policy and development. On top of all that, I am looking to expand my own community, a group of friends and colleagues who are equally passionate about growing NYC and looking to connect with others to work on these goals together.

At the same time, I recognize my own limitations in my current knowledge and understanding of civic policy and local governance. Through posts on this Substack, I hope to not only educate readers but also myself in the political proceedings of NYC government and through discussion of ongoing events, gain a deeper understanding of “how the sausage gets made”. I recognize that change in policy is best initiated by those who understand the issue intimately and have spent time studying and exploring the solution space.

So this project is my attempt to better educate myself, others, and begin contributing to the grand conversation of New York’s future among its citizens, administrators, and elected officials. Because I truly believe this is the greatest city in the world, and to continue to be such, change is necessary. If you are interested in working on these goals together or talking NYC politics, urban/economic policy, civic tech, data science for public policy, or simply making a new friend in the city - please reach out.