In Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz's sixth State of the Borough address Thursday, he touted his administration's accomplishments and plans for the future while saying the Bronx is stronger than it's been in decades. NY1's Erin Clarke filed the following report.

The setting for the Bronx State of the Borough address was a first.

"Welcome to the newest destination, the largest indoor mall here in the city of New York, The Mall at Bay Plaza," said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Diaz used the location to emphasize new development across the Bronx.

"In Soundview, we will see the development of New York State's largest television and film studio," he said.

It's one of several projects he said will bring jobs to the borough, including the transformation of the Bronx General Post Office on 149th Street into retail and office space.

He also cited projects in progress, like the Kingsbridge National Ice Center and an expansion of the Hutchinson Metro Center, which the state announced will include a new 33-acre office complex.

"The Bronx has never been more open for business, ladies and gentlemen. So if you're looking to invest, trust me, listen to me. The time is now to do it," Diaz said.

Diaz said those changes won't happen at the expense of small business owners, even noting that his office worked with the owner of Bay Plaza to extend the lease of a bagel shop that was in jeopardy because of high rent. 

He also spoke of new housing opportunities with development near the Sheridan Expressway and along the waterfront from Mott Haven to Fordham Road. He even touched on development like that of Hudson Rail Yards, although Governor Andrew Cuomo said a similar proposal in Queens wouldn't happen.

"My office is putting together a report examining the possible decking of three Bronx train yards," Diaz said.

While the borough president talked about the accomplishments of his administration, he also acknowledged the challenges that the borough still faces.

"Just 18 percent of working-age Bronxites have a bachelor's degree," Diaz said. "We have to do more to improve the employability of our Bronxites."

Education and health remain issues, but Diaz said he looks forward to working with his state and local partners to change that and is encouraged that the Bronx has a sympathetic ear in Albany with the appointment of Carl Heastie as Assembly speaker.