In response to constituent concerns regarding public safety and quality of life issues at the Babbage and Bessemer Streets in Richmond Hill, Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. provided funding and worked with the local 102nd police precinct to get two NYPD ARGUS cameras installed.

The cameras have been installed on 84th Avenue; one on Babbage Street and one on Bessemer Street. They went up on May 13, 2026. 

“The constituents are the eyes and ears of the community, so when I received complaints and concerns about security and illegal activity at the Babbage and Bessemer site, I immediately took action to correct the situation,” Addabbo said. “I know that more needs to be done, and I am committed to working with the appropriate agencies and local residents to make the necessary improvements.”

The Senator believes that these cameras will act as a deterrent to criminals, especially as the summer months are approaching. Addabbo stated that he will continue to work with the appropriate agencies to make improvements and enhancements to this long-neglected area.

“Our neighborhood has dealt with dangerous and frightening incidents near the train trestle that put lives at risk,” the Richmond Hill Block Association said in a statement. “We are incredibly grateful to Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. for listening to residents and taking swift action to bring police security cameras to this vulnerable area. Neighbors already feel safer knowing their concerns were heard and addressed.”

Senator Addabbo also thanked the MTAPD and NYPD, and Shmira Queens Borough Safety Patrol for its due diligence in increasing patrols in this sensitive area and encouraged them to continue their efforts.