Mayor Mamdani unveils plans for 5 city-run supermarkets, including one in East Harlem

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani's proposal faces challenges as he aims to open a discounted grocery store in each borough by 2029.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 10:12pm

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New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani has unveiled plans to open five city-run supermarkets, including one in the East Harlem neighborhood. The first location confirmed is La Marqueta in East Harlem, which will require demolition and rebuilding at a cost of $30 million. The mayor's goal is to provide affordable, essential groceries to underserved communities, but the plan faces criticism over its viability and cost to taxpayers.

Why it matters

Mayor Mamdani's proposal aims to address food insecurity in low-income neighborhoods by establishing city-run grocery stores that offer discounted staple items. However, the plan faces skepticism from some community groups and industry leaders who argue that supporting existing independent supermarkets may be a more effective and sustainable solution.

The details

Under Mamdani's plan, the city would own the land or lease space for the supermarkets and cover construction or renovation costs, while a private contractor would manage daily operations. The stores would sell a 'basket' of affordable everyday essentials like rice, beans, and produce. The first market is expected to open in late 2027, with the remaining four, including the East Harlem site, slated to open before the end of Mamdani's term in 2029. However, the plan requires approval from the City Council, and critics have raised concerns about potential issues like long lines, stock shortages, and the high taxpayer cost.

  • Mayor Mamdani unveiled the plans on April 14, 2026.
  • The first city-run supermarket is expected to open in late 2027.
  • The East Harlem location at La Marqueta is not slated to open until 2029.

The players

Mayor Zohran Mamdani

The current mayor of New York City who has proposed the plan to open five city-run supermarkets, including one in East Harlem.

Greg Silverman

The CEO of the West Side Campaign Against Hunger, a food pantry organization that supports Mamdani's plan but believes it is not a complete solution to addressing hunger in the city.

Anthony Pena

The president of the National Supermarket Association, who argues that the city should instead invest in supporting existing independent supermarkets in underserved communities.

Carey King

The director of Uptown Grand Central, a community organization in East Harlem, who provides details on the proposed 'basket' of affordable essential items the city-run supermarkets would sell.

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What they’re saying

“We cannot 'pantry' our way out of hunger. This organization is feeding over 100,000 people. That's not a solution.”

— Greg Silverman, CEO of West Side Campaign Against Hunger

“What we are looking to do is to provide something to New Yorkers where they don't have to hope, but they have a guarantee that their essentials will be cheaper at that supermarket.”

— Mayor Zohran Mamdani

“You can invest in the independent community that is already there. The infrastructure is there, and we will be able to pass those savings instantly.”

— Anthony Pena, President of National Supermarket Association

What’s next

The mayor's plan must be approved by the New York City Council before the first city-run supermarket can open in late 2027. The East Harlem location at La Marqueta is not expected to open until 2029 due to the required demolition and rebuilding.

The takeaway

Mayor Mamdani's proposal to open a network of affordable, city-run supermarkets aims to address food insecurity in underserved communities, but faces skepticism over its viability and cost. While some community groups support the plan, others argue that investing in existing independent grocers may be a more effective and sustainable solution.