State Senator Joseph Addabbo celebrated the dedication of Queens crossing guards during a community breakfast held on May 23 at Villa Russo in South Richmond Hill.
The gathering honored crossing guards from the 102nd, 104th, 106th and 112th NYPD precincts and brought together nearly 200 honorees, NYPD officers and community members.
Addabbo, who represents neighborhoods spanning central and southwestern Queens, hosted the event as part of his broader efforts to spotlight frontline public servants who contribute to neighborhood safety and wellbeing. Commanding Officer Captain Pratima Maldonado of the 102nd Precinct was among the NYPD leaders in attendance, lending further significance to the occasion.
“Today, we honor their dedicated service and reaffirm our commitment to a community where safety and care go hand in hand,” Addabbo said. “Our crossing guards are the unsung heroes who keep our children safe every day, rain or shine, cold or heat.”
Each honoree received a certificate of recognition and a silver metal bookmark engraved with an inspirational quote. Several guards were recognized for their exceptional longevity, including one individual who had served for 37 years, reflecting a deep generational commitment to community protection.
The role of school crossing guards in New York City dates back to 1953, when the NYPD formally established the position to address growing concerns over child pedestrian safety during the post-war boom in school enrollment and urban traffic. Today, more than 2,000 school crossing guards are stationed across the five boroughs, ensuring safe passage for students at intersections near public and private schools.
These civilian members of the NYPD often work part-time, but their responsibilities are vital. In addition to managing traffic and supervising school crossings, they often serve as a reassuring presence for both children and parents in densely populated areas with complex traffic patterns.
Addabbo’s office has consistently championed support for NYPD civilian roles, including recent pushes for increased staffing and enhanced training. In 2023, amid staffing shortages across several precincts, the senator advocated for better pay and scheduling flexibility for crossing guards to aid in recruitment and retention.
