Annual Report 2011
Page 4
One of the strengths of the New York Building Congress is its ability to bring together key players from design, construction, and real estate, as well as public officials who manage and implement New York City's infrastructure projects, economic development initiatives, and government programs.
The broad range of Building Congress policy forums, awards galas, committee meetings, and special events provides members with the opportunity to debate and influence emerging issues, salute the achievements of colleagues, and network with associates across all industry sectors.
For more than 20 years, the Building Congress Construction Industry Forum series has served as a platform for leading City, State, and Federal officials to discuss capital plans and receive feedback from the building community. Recent highlights include New York Daily News Publisher and Boston Properties CEO Mortimer B. Zuckerman discussing how infrastructure investment is one of the keys to economic recovery; Port Authority of NY & NJ Executive Director Christopher O. Ward analyzing the transportation challenges facing the region; Lieutenant Governor Richard Ravitch proposing solutions to New York's budget crisis; MTA Chairman & CEO Jay H. Walder reviewing efforts to reduce waste and improve efficiency; and the annual Construction Outlook forum, featuring New York City Economic Development Corporation President Seth W. Pinsky and the release of the latest Building Congress multi-year construction forecast.
Nearly 2,000 members and guests joined the Building Congress to honor a group of exceptional men and women whose professional and personal accomplishments have helped shape and improve the City. Honorees at the 89th Anniversary Leadership Awards Luncheon and 2010 Industry Recognition Dinner included Douglas Durst of the Durst Organization; Matthew Goldstein of the City University of New York, and Stuart E. Graham of Skanska USA Inc. The 2010 Jack & Lewis Rudin Award for Service to New York City was presented to Howard J. Rubenstein of Rubenstein Associates, Inc., and the George A. Fox Public Service Award recipient was Milo E. Riverso of STV.
The New York Building Foundation continues to expand its research activities, charitable giving, and educational scholarships largely due to revenue generated by its successful annual events. Most recently, these events included the fourth annual Premier Wine Dinner, featuring special guest Larry Silverstein of Silverstein Properties, and the ninth annual Theatre Benefit, which recognized participants in the pilot Construction for a Livable City program. These events, as well as the Building Congress annual Golf Outing, provide significant networking opportunities while raising awareness of the important work of the Building Foundation.
