In May of this year, Governor David Paterson appointed Christopher O. Ward to serve as the new Executive Director of the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey. The announcement was well-received by the building industry.

Building Congress President Richard T. Anderson said at the time,“We could not be more pleased with Governor Paterson’s selection of Chris Ward. In his previous stint at the Port Authority, Chris compiled a sterling record and reputation, especially in leading the effort to build the hugely successful AirTrain light rail to JFK Airport. New Yorkers will be wellserved by Chris’ deep understanding of the agency as well as his knowledge of the region’s infrastructure and transportation needs, which he has addressed in past leadership roles with the General Contractors Association, the Empire State Transportation Alliance and the City’s Department of Environmental Protection.”

Within a month of taking over,Mr. Ward, at Governor Paterson’s request, undertook the first stages of a comprehensive review of the redevelopment of the World Trade Center. The resulting analysis, produced with input from multiple stakeholders, identified 15 areas that must be addressed immediately in order to set realistic schedules and budgets for each of the project’s components, including the Memorial, PATH Transit Hub and four office towers. Consequently, a new budget and timeline for the $16 million reconstruction is expected in September.

“A fully and spectacularly rebuilt World Trade Center is, of course, important to all New Yorkers and a source of great pride for the industry,” said Building Congress Chairman Dominick M. Servedio. “The Building Congress and its membership, many of whom are currently working in various capacities at the site, have pledged our ongoing support and assistance in achieving this mission.”

The Building Congress and New York Construction will host Mr. Ward for an important Construction Industry Forum beginning at 8:00 a.m. on August 15, 2008, at the New York Academy of Sciences, located on the 40th floor of 7 World Trade Center (250 Greenwich Street). For more information and to register, visit www.buildingcongress.com.