Mayor Mamdani Unveils 2-K, 3-K RFI for Child Care

New York City launches request for information to expand childcare capacity citywide

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Chancellor Kamar H. Samuels of the New York City Public Schools announced the launch of a request for information (RFI) and survey to expand childcare capacity across the city, including the introduction of a new 2-K program for two-year-olds and the expansion of the existing 3-K program for three-year-olds. The goal is to make universal childcare a reality in New York City.

Why it matters

Affordable and accessible childcare is a critical issue for working families in New York City. The new 2-K and expanded 3-K programs aim to provide no-cost childcare options, saving families over $20,000 per child annually and allowing more parents to remain in the workforce.

The details

The RFI will invite new early childhood providers to express interest in participating in the existing 3-K program and launching 2-K services. The expansion survey will also gauge interest from current 3-K and pre-K providers to expand their offerings, including 2-K. The city is seeking to address issues like rising operational costs, low wages, and high staff turnover that have impacted childcare providers.

  • The RFI and survey are open now through February 19, 2026.
  • The city aims to deliver 2,000 new 2-K seats by the end of 2026, with that number increasing to around 12,000 seats in 2027.

The players

Mayor Zohran Mamdani

The mayor of New York City who announced the launch of the childcare expansion initiatives.

Chancellor Kamar H. Samuels

The chancellor of the New York City Public Schools who spoke about the importance of high-quality, affordable childcare for families.

Emmy Liss

The executive director of the Office of Childcare who provided details on the new RFI and the opportunity for new providers to participate.

Bright Horizons

A large childcare provider in New York City that has faced allegations of misconduct, leading the city to terminate its pre-K and 3-K contract with the company and take enforcement actions at other locations.

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What they’re saying

“For too long, these providers have been cut off from participating. Together, we will expand the idea of what is possible in our city, and what sounds and noises we can make at a press conference.”

— Mayor Zohran Mamdani (Mirage News)

“Being a parent is hard. Finding childcare shouldn't be.”

— Chancellor Kamar H. Samuels, New York City Public Schools (Mirage News)

What’s next

The judge in the case against Bright Horizons will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the company to continue operating childcare centers in New York City.

The takeaway

The launch of the 2-K and expanded 3-K programs represents a significant step towards making universal childcare a reality in New York City, addressing a critical need for working families and supporting the city's economic prosperity.