The road map for revitalizing SUNY Downstate Medical Hospital is now being developed. This will initiate the planned renovation of a much-needed community health facility in Central Brooklyn.

After several demonstrations, town hall meetings, six trips to Albany, NY, and a bus ride to Washington, DC, by local clergy leaders and politicians advocating daily that Downstate Medical’s doors remain open, all hands are now on deck.

A decision has finally been reached, and New York State Governor Kathy Hochul was on-site at the hospital on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, to announce that the 2.5 million people of Brooklyn will no longer have to struggle to get the services of SUNY Downstate Medical.

The governor announced to a crowded hall that after working with NY State legislators on more than one occasion, they have confirmed that a state-of-the-art modern healthcare facility will be upgraded and refurbished at Downstate. “I think we can do better…everyone does have the right to quality health care. We were instrumental in getting over the line this time,” the governor announced.
Governor Hochul declared that the plan was carefully reviewed and looked at by financial experts.

“We have secured $1 billion. When you walk through the doors at SUNY Downstate, we will take care of you and give you the security you deserve,” the governor declared.

Governor Hochul expressed gratitude towards the State Legislature and the advisory board. She expressed that the SUNY Downstate legacy runs deep in Brooklyn. She further mentioned that they will collaborate with students to ensure they receive a first-class education at SUNY Downstate.

Following Governor Hochul’s comments, SUNY Chancellor Dr. John B. King acknowledged the hospital’s challenges but assured the audience that Downstate would no longer struggle.

According to Dr. King, the plan will drive and increase the number of patients in the facility, allowing stability and maintenance. He noted that work has already begun in some areas, such as electricity.

SUNY’s Downstate Medical Hospital president, Dr. Wayne Riley, also spoke. He thanked the governor for her commitment to the community and her dedication to providing services for SUNY Downstate. Dr. Riley said the hospital will ensure the community’s long-term viability.

New York State Senator Zellnor Myrie, who led several demonstrations calling for the hospital to remain open, said it is with immense gratitude that he thanked Governor Hochul for her constant effort to generate the funds to refurbish the hospital.

Myrie reflected deeply on the challenging days, especially during the tumultuous days of the COVID-19 pandemic when the doctors and nurses at Downstate struggled to keep patients alive and the hospital doors open. He acknowledged the advisory board and the United Universal Professionals (UUP union) for their tireless efforts in addressing the issues, always persisting in their struggles to keep the hospital operating.

New York State Assembly Member for the 43rd District, Brian Cunningham, thanked Governor Hochul for her investment in the community.

The completion of the hospital will see new wings added, several areas upgraded, and contemporary and various equipment added to accommodate the staff and all of Brooklyn’s residents.

The total plan for the development of the hospital finishes within seven years. Work has already started.