Mayor Adams Marks End of Term with Time Capsule at City Hall

New York City Mayor Eric Adams on Tuesday marked the end of his four-year tenure by sealing a time capsule outside City Hall, reflecting on what he described as key achievements and challenges during his time in office.

Speaking at City Hall in Manhattan, Adams and senior members of his administration highlighted milestones ranging from reductions in crime to managing the migrant influx and navigating a federal corruption indictment that was later dismissed. The event served as a symbolic farewell as Adams looks ahead to the next phase of his career.

“I’ve done what I had to do and gave everything I had,” Adams said, adding that he is ready for the next chapter of his journey.

During his remarks, Adams emphasized what he called a series of “firsts,” including workforce initiatives, crime reduction efforts, and increased diversity within city leadership. He acknowledged that his administration was often overshadowed by controversy, particularly the corruption charges that dominated public attention before being dropped.

Among the items placed into the time capsule were symbolic objects representing major policy moments: an identification card reflecting the city’s response to the migrant crisis, a Staten Island Ferry model symbolizing the resolution of long-standing labor contracts, a drone component highlighting the administration’s use of technology, and a key representing expanded housing under the “City of Yes” rezoning plan.

Before the capsule was buried beneath the sidewalk near City Hall, Adams appeared to issue pointed remarks directed at the incoming administration, warning against policies he suggested could undermine public safety and quality of life.

Adams has not yet announced his future plans, though he has reportedly been holding meetings with organizations and companies both in the United States and abroad.