Summer’s Heating Up in Downtown New Rochelle 🌞

Greetings from Downtown New Rochelle,

I’m Anne Gold, the new Executive Director of the New Rochelle Downtown Business Improvement District (NRBID), and I’m excited to share a look at what’s ahead as we move into the summer season.

Inside, you’ll find details on upcoming events—from trivia nights and open mics to guided historic walking tours, art happenings, and Dine Downtown: Food & Drink Week—a weeklong celebration of the vibrant food and drink scene that makes our downtown so unique.

You’ll also read about a new Downtown Bicycle Patrol Unit from the New Rochelle Police Department, bringing added safety and connection right to the heart of our community.

I look forward to sharing more about my role and vision for downtown in the weeks ahead.

Whether you live, work, or simply enjoy discovering what’s downtown, thank you for staying connected. I hope to see you around soon!

Warmly,
Anne J. Gold
Executive Director, NRBID

Pictured: Meet Officers Andrade, Millosky, and McClintock—New Rochelle’s new Downtown Bike Patrol. Keep an eye out for them riding through downtown with a smile (and yes, helmets on!).

New Rochelle’s Downtown Bike Patrol: Visibility, Mobility, and Community in Motion

With wheels in motion, the New Rochelle Police Department (NRPD) has launched a dedicated Downtown Bicycle Patrol Unit (DBPU) focused on downtown New Rochelle. This initiative aims to enhance public safety, improve quality of life, and foster stronger community relationships—one pedal stroke at a time.

Imagine walking down Main Street in New Rochelle in 1899—the very year the city was officially incorporated. That same year, Police Chief Timmons introduced bicycle patrols to help officers better navigate the rapidly growing community. Officers on bicycles weaved through bustling crowds, chasing reckless riders known as “scorchers,” and rounding up runaway horses—all while staying connected with the neighborhoods they served.

Fast forward over a century—2025 marks a renaissance for New Rochelle’s bike patrol with the establishment of a fully dedicated team focused on the vibrant downtown. This launch represents a new era emphasizing visibility, community connection, and rapid response at the heart of the city.

At its core, the bike patrol carries on the community-centered policing tradition—where officers aren’t just enforcers, but familiar faces in the neighborhood, fostering trust through their visible and approachable presence. This approach, rooted in principles established by Sir Robert Peel in the early 1800s, remains a cornerstone of effective policing today.

The Downtown Bike Patrol enables officers to move easily through sidewalks, streets, and pedestrian areas—allowing them to be more present and approachable where people live, work, and gather. This mobility helps officers build stronger relationships and respond quickly to community needs in the heart of downtown.

Officer Craig McClintock, who previously patrolled the midnight shift in a squad car, said the bike unit has transformed how he connects with the public. “Squad cars play an important role, but being on a bike puts you in the mix. You’re more approachable, and it’s easier to connect with people. Folks are more likely to stop you, ask a question, or just say hello. It feels more personal.”

One memorable moment for McClintock involved three kids proudly showing their library cards. “They asked if I had a library card when I was a kid—and I told them I sure did. Moments like that don’t happen from inside a patrol car.”

Officer Joe Millosky is a man of few words, and on the bike, he stands out. He doesn’t need to say much—his presence does the talking. Joe has a calm, steady approach that puts people at ease and creates space for real conversations. As he says, “You show up on a bike and people notice. That’s the point, right?”

Officer Shirley Andrade spoke to the heart of her daily work. “Every day in law enforcement brings something new—that’s what drew me to it,” she said. “When riding the bike downtown, I feel more approachable. People wave and say hi. It opens up conversations that I wouldn’t have behind a patrol car window. So far I feel like riding the bike has allowed a deeper connection with the community.”

Together, these moments highlight that the Downtown Bike Patrol is about more than safety—it’s about building genuine relationships that keep New Rochelle’s community vibrant and connected.

The new bicycle unit reflects a broader commitment to public safety and downtown vibrancy—one strongly supported by both the New Rochelle Police Department (NRPD) and the New Rochelle Business Improvement District (NRBID).

“The bike patrol is a smart investment in the success of our downtown,” said Marc Jerome, Chair of the NRBID and President of Monroe University, one of downtown’s anchor institutions. “It improves visibility, strengthens trust, and helps create a walkable environment for residents, visitors, and businesses. A safe, vibrant streetscape is essential for long-term economic growth—and this program supports exactly that.”

As officers pedal through the city’s heart, the message is clear: they’re here, they’re present, and they’re part of the community.

NRPD officers in front of Lawton Street headquarters, 1908. When New Rochelle became a city in 1899, Chief Timmons introduced bicycle patrols to help officers cover the expanding community. Nine years later, this photo captured officers with both bicycles and newly added motorcycles—brought in to meet the challenges posed by the arrival of the Ford Model T and the dawn of the automobile age.

Have questions or feedback about the Downtown Bike Patrol? The New Rochelle Police Department welcomes your input. Feel free to say hello if you see an officer on patrol—they’re here to connect and support the community.

Stay updated by following NRPD on social media:
• Instagram: @newrochellepolice
• Facebook: New Rochelle Police Department

This article was written by Anne J. Gold, Executive Director of the New Rochelle Business Improvement District.

Take a Flavorful Journey at Dine Downtown New Rochelle Food & Drink Week!


Bigger, better, tastier, and even more happening this summer.

From June 26 through July 2, Dine Downtown New Rochelle Food & Drink Week invites locals and visitors alike to explore a dazzling variety of cuisines, creative cocktails, and sweet treats — all within a comfortable 15-minute walk from the Library Green area in the heart of downtown.

Downtown New Rochelle boasts an impressive lineup of restaurants, cafés, bars, and dessert spots offering everything from global cuisine to classic home-cooked favorites. This expanded celebration goes beyond prix fixe menus to spotlight signature dishes, creative promotions, tasting flights, happy hours, and more — capturing the vibrant energy and unique atmospheres that make our downtown scene special.

The list of participating eateries will be available beginning in early June. Be sure to check newrochelledowntown.com for the full lineup and details on specials and events.

Local eateries interested in participating or learning more can contact Anne Gold, Executive Director, at (914) 960-3088 for registration and information.

So, mark your calendars and get ready for a week full of flavors, fun, and a warm neighborhood welcome — right here in Downtown New Rochelle.

Events, Culture & Community – June 2025

Blurred Boundaries – Photography Exhibition at Vanda Gallery

  • Reception: Friday, June 7, 5:00–7:00 PM
  • Dates: Open through – June 25
  • Location: 379 Huguenot Street, New Rochelle, NY
  • Email: info@vandagallery.com | Phone: (914) 740-4412
  • Featuring artists Susan Phillips, Christopher Behrend, Nick Carter, and Bryan Sans.
  • Award highlight: Chris Behrend – Rennadi Island, GOLD Winner, 2023 World’s Top 10 Landscape Photo Contest
  • This exhibit explores visual storytelling through abstraction, distortion, and layered imagery—inviting viewers into a world where edges dissolve and new interpretations emerge.

Summer Sizzle Concert Series

  • Dates: Saturdays, June 7 and every Saturday through August 30
  • Time: 6:30 PM Opening Act | 7:00 PM Featured Performer
  • Location: Ruby Dee Park at Library Green
  • Free outdoor concerts every Saturday! Enjoy live music, a festive atmosphere, and great community vibes.

The Self on Film – Film Appreciation Classes

  • Location: Poet’s Corner, 88 Centre Avenue (at Main Street)
  • Time: 12:30–3:30 PM | Cost: $12 per class
  • Facilitator: Josh Flowers
  • Explore classic cinema through a personal lens. Each session is standalone—come to one or all!
  • June 7 – Neorealism: Post-WWII Italian films on resilience and real life
  • June 21 – Film Noir: Shadows, choices, and moral ambiguity
  • June 28 – New Waves: 1960s cinema that broke the rules

Thomas Paine Day – Sunday, June 8

  • Location: Thomas Paine Memorial Building, 983 North Avenue, New Rochelle
  • Open House: 3:00–6:00 PM | Program Begins: 3:30 PM
  • Presentations on Paine’s philosophy & poetry
  • Music by the Brian Carter Jazz Quartet
  • Refreshments served from 4:30–6:00 PM

TLPC Juneteenth Celebration – Restoring Our History

Walking Tour: Historic Residence Park

  • Date: Saturday, June 21
  • Time: 9:30–11:00 AM
  • Location: Meet at the Presbyterian Church of New Rochelle, 50 Pintard Avenue
  • Cost: $50 | Course #5766
  • Discover one of Westchester’s first planned neighborhoods, featuring Queen Anne and Shingle-style homes, a John Russell Pope-designed church, and an 1855 Gothic “castle.”
  • Guide: Barbara Davis, City Historian and Executive Director of the Westchester County Historical Society
  • Email: Carmen.Marrinan@sunywcc.edu | Phone: (914) 606-7300 | Website: www.sunywcc.edu/peekskill

Paint and Pint – 18th Ward Brewing

  • Date: Friday, June 20
  • Time: 7:00 PM
  • Location: 18th Ward Brewing Taproom, Downtown New Rochelle
  • Admission: Ticket required – Purchase Here
  • Sip and create! Enjoy a night of guided painting with New York artist Mona Balgobin while sipping fresh brews. No experience needed.
  • 🎟 Ticket includes entry into a prize basket raffle featuring 18th Ward goodies.
  • Group seating for up to 5 available by reservation – email: Andrew@18thwardbrewing.com

New Rochelle Council on the Arts Summer Sounds Concert Series

  • Dates: Wednesdays and Fridays, June 25 – August 27 at 7:30 pm
  • Location: Hudson Park
  • Website: newrochellearts.org

Dine Downtown: Food & Drink Week

  • Dates: June 26 – July 2
  • Location: Participating Restaurants, Bars & Cafés
  • Savor downtown New Rochelle! From seasonal menus and prix fixe dinners to signature drinks and summer specials, there’s something for everyone.
  • Website: www.newrochelledowntown.com

Ongoing Summer Activities


18th Ward Brewing – Weekly Events

  • Trivia Night
    • Date: June 4 and every Wednesday
    • Time: 8:00 PM
    • Admission: Free
  • Open Mic Night

Casaroma Café Book Club

  • Sip. Discuss. Connect.
  • 391 Huguenot St, New Rochelle
  • Meets monthly – visit website for info
  • casaromacafe.com

🌿 Ward Acres Nature Preserve – Trails, Woodlands & Dog Park

  • 62 acres of hiking trails, birdwatching, and peaceful woodland walks—plus a popular off-leash dog park.
  • Location: Broadfield Road, New Rochelle | Phone: (914) 654-2087

Glen Island Park – Waterfront Views & Picnic

  • Relax by the Sound, enjoy picnic areas, and stroll the historic bridge.
  • Phone: (914) 813-6720 | Website: parks.westchestergov.com/glen-island-park

To have your event featured in a future edition, please email: anne.gold@newrochelledowntown.com

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