ROCHESTER, N.Y. — New York Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie was in Rochester on Tuesday to visit the Lexington Community Farm. He was joined by New York Assemblymember Sarah Clark.

The urban farm on the outskirts of the Edgerton Neighborhood is 1 1/3 acres of greenery near an industrial area. Operated by Foodlink, the garden supports the non-profit's programs as well as provides a public park.

"Sarah wanted to bring me here to look at this beautiful garden and explore all the possibilities that can come from this, including educating our children and just people in general, potential job opportunities," Heastie said.

Heastie also weighed in on the vaccine mandate for health care workers that went into effect on Monday across the state.

"I do think we need to get as many people vaccinated as possible," said Heastie."I spoke to the governor last night. She said to me she believes she will be able to handle the shortages. I just hope that more people get vaccinated because I do think that that's the key to beating COVID."

The assembly speaker also visited the Special Touch Bakery on nearby Mt. Read Boulevard.