Maternal and newborn health services in North Brooklyn will see dramatic improvement as the New York City Council announces $5.8 million in funding for Wyckoff Heights Medical Center to overhaul and modernize its NICU and maternity facilities. This includes a newly unveiled $2 million in the city’s FY 2026 budget, secured by Speaker Adrienne Adams and Council Member Sandy Nurse, furthering the hospital’s ambitious transformation plan.
The funds are designated for NICU expansion and continued renovation of the hospital’s 11th-floor maternity and 12th-floor labor and delivery suites, reinforcing Wyckoff’s essential role for Brooklyn and Queens residents.
State-of-the-Art NICU for Families
The new NICU will cover 5,000 square feet, containing 15 incubators, three nursery spaces—one for isolation—plus a breastfeeding room, family waiting areas, more nurses’ workstations, staff offices, lounges, storage, utilities, and updated hallways for improved workflow.
Between FY 2024 and FY 2025, $3.8 million in capital funds supported the project’s earlier phases. This most recent investment allows Wyckoff to complete its mission to provide up-to-date neonatal care.
Championing Health Equity
Speaker Adrienne Adams commented that this financial backing underscores a larger Council effort to advance maternal health and reduce persistent disparities.
“Our Council, known for its diversity and women-majority membership, strongly supports efforts to enhance maternal health and tackle inequities impacting mothers and families,” said Adams. She pointed out the $2 million for the new NICU and $5.8 million overall, emphasizing the critical importance of supporting hospitals that care for marginalized groups.
Council Member Sandy Nurse highlighted that this support comes at a time when Black and Brown women continue to confront challenging health statistics.
“I’m excited to confirm $5.8 million has been found for these projects over the past two fiscal cycles,” Nurse noted, calling Wyckoff an anchor for Bushwick and its residents. “It’s vital that every mother at Wyckoff is provided with safe, respectful maternity care.”
Building a Stronger Community Hospital
Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez underlined the far-reaching impact such upgrades have for families.
“These investments do more than modernize buildings—they strengthen whole communities,” Gutiérrez observed. She highlighted that well-equipped maternity and NICU facilities mean “safer deliveries, swift emergency care, and real reassurance to families citywide.”
President and CEO Vali Gache said these improvements would greatly enhance care for patients and the working experience for staff.
“The updated Neonatal, Maternity, and Labor and Delivery Suites will provide our staff and families with brighter, more functional spaces tailored for excellent care,” Gache commented. She added her personal view, noting her own delivery in a safety-net hospital and the value of keeping care community-based.
Community Impact
For Bushwick, North Brooklyn, and parts of Queens, this means safer, more supported births and newborn care. For hospital personnel, it creates a more modern, efficient workspace.
The City Council’s total $5.8 million investment cements Wyckoff Heights Medical Center’s place as a key healthcare institution—committed to reducing maternal mortality and improving health outcomes for New York City mothers and babies. Learn more at NYC.gov.
