Next Mile NYC Expands To Rikers With $2.9M CDL Program

""Expanding 'Next Mile NYC' to Rikers Island will create real pathways from incarceration to stable, well‑paying jobs," Mamdani said."

""Stable employment is one of the strongest predictors of success upon returning to community," MOCJ Director Deanna Logan added."

"People in custody who qualify will complete a 40-hour, self-paced online course and take the Commercial Learner's Permit exam while still on Rikers."

"To date, 266 participants have earned Commercial Learner's Permits and 99 have secured full CDLs, according to the agency."

The Next Mile NYC program is being expanded to Rikers Island, allowing eligible individuals to begin a 40-hour online driving curriculum while incarcerated. After release, they will complete hands-on instruction and testing. A $2.9 million investment will create approximately 290 training slots, connecting graduates to well-paying jobs. The initiative aims to facilitate reentry into the community by providing real-world skills and employer connections, with a focus on stable employment as a predictor of success post-incarceration.

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