Annual Report 2015
Events
The New York Building Congress has made its mark as the premier industry organization for bringing together important players from across the design, construction, and real estate community, as well as those government officials entrusted with planning, funding, and building New York City’s infrastructure projects, economic development initiatives, and capital programs.
The variety of Building Congress policy forums, awards galas, and special events provide members with the opportunity to debate and influence emerging issues, salute the achievements of colleagues, and network with associates across industry sectors.
For 25 years, the Building Congress Construction Industry Forum series has served as a platform for City, State, and federal officials to discuss capital plans and receive feedback from the building industry. Recent highlights include: New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Joan McDonald and New York City Department of Transportation Commissioner Polly Trottenberg in June 2014, addressing the transportation priorities of the Cuomo and de Blasio administrations; the annual Construction Outlook Forum in October 2014, featuring remarks by Deputy Mayor for Housing and Economic Development
Alicia Glen and the release of the latest Building Congress multiyear construction forecast; the Annual Membership Meeting and Construction Industry Luncheon Forum in January 2015, with remarks by Craig Stewart, Senior Director, MTA Capital Programs, who outlined the MTA’s five-year capital plan; and an April 2015 Forum that featured New York City Economic Development Corporation President Kyle Kimball and remarks by New York State Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman.
Nearly 2,200 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 2014 Industry Recognition Dinner and 94th Anniversary Leadership Awards Luncheon included Charles L. Harrington, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, and President, Parsons Corporation; Bradford Perkins, FAIA, AICP, MRAIC,
Chairman, Perkins Eastman;Paul T. Williams Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer, DASNY;Richard Cavallaro, President and Chief Executive Officer, Skanska USA; Howard P. Milstein,Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Milstein Properties, and Former Chairman, New York State Thruway Authority; and Alicia Glen, Deputy Mayor for Housing and Economic Development, City of New York.
In June 2014, the Building Congress held a Membership Appreciation Reception, where industry leaders gathered at the newly constructed One57. The event was an expression of gratitude to members for their involvement in and support of the Building Congress. Featured speakers included Gary Barnett, President, Extell Development, and City Council Member Daniel R. Garodnick.
The Annual Golf Outing was held in July at Westchester Country Club. Approximately 220 design, construction, and real estate industry leaders attended the outing for an opportunity to network in a more casual setting. Attendees completed rounds on both of the Club’s celebrated courses in Rye, New York.
In February 2015, former New Jersey Governor Thomas H. Kean was the special guest at the Building Congress PAC Luncheon, which focused on the national political and economic outlook, while raising funds for the State and federal political action committee.
Other annual events raised support for and awareness of the important work of the New York Building Foundation. Most recently, these events included the 8th Annual Premier Wine Dinner, the 13th Annual Theatre Benefit, and an auction held at the Building Congress Annual Golf Outing.
