
Empire City/MGM Resorts Envisions Late 2027 Opening if it Wins Downstate Casino License
YONKERS—The high stakes gamble to secure one of three casino gaming licenses in the New York metro area has reached a key milestone with eight

State Earmarks $789 Million in Housing Grantst to Create Energy-Efficient Homes Downstate
ALBANY—New York State officials recently announced that nearly 3,000 affordable, modern and energy-efficient homes will be created or preserved in communities throughout New York State

New York City Update – NYC Construction Employment Still Short of Pre-Pandemic Levels: Comptroller
ALBANY—Despite having the fourth-largest construction sector in the nation, New York state is one of five states that have not recovered from pandemic job losses

Congestion Tolling Results at Six Months On Track to Meet Its Goals for 2025: MTA
NEW YORK—In its first six months of operation, New York City’s congestion pricing program has succeeded in reducing traffic and raising revenues to fund transit

Attorney’s Column – Shortened Limitations Period Must Be Reasonable to Protect Claims: Court
Back in February, we wrote about the case of Gibraltar Contracting, Inc. v. Tully Construction Co., Inc., in which the parties attempted to shorten a

Albany Update – State Unveils Draft 2050 Transportation Plan To Garner Comments, Recommendations
ALBANY—New York State announced on June 11 that $325 million in new funding is available for the next round of the Water Infrastructure Improvement and

Financial Management – Call for Contractors to Enhance Cybersecurity To Protect Public Projects from Digital Threats
Cyberattacks are no longer rare events or problems exclusive to Fortune 500 tech firms—they’re a growing threat that spans every industry and company size, including

46th Annual CIC Golf Classic Attracts Hundreds to Summer Social
SCARBOROUGH, NY— For one joyful summer day each year, the contracting community gathers, with golf clubs and fellowship to support industry affairs, at the CIC

Orange County to Purchase, Revitalize The Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center
GOSHEN, NY—The Orange County Legislature voted 21-0 on July 1 to approve the county’s purchase of the Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center (SLPAC), advancing County

Orange-Ulster BOCES Capital Program Advances with $134.2M Bond Financing
ALBANY—The Dormitory Authority of the State of New York recently closed on the $134,185,000 Series 2025 bond issuance for the Board of Cooperative Educational Services

Next Generation Leader – Giuliana Piazza
Next Gen Leaders Profiles of the Industry’s New Generation Giuliana Piazza Building Contractors Association / Construction Advancement Institute Scholarship Winner Profile Current Employer: Shiseido Americas

Hochul Directs NYPA to Develop, Build New Nuclear Power Plant Upstate
LEWISTON, NY—At an appearance at the Niagara County Power Project here in late June, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced she has directed the New

Safety Watch – Vertically Stored Roof Trusses, Even for a Moment, Cause Serious Injury When Gravity Has Its Way
Workplace safety failures related to materials storage continue to be a significant source of serious injuries and citations on construction and manufacturing sites. The recent

What’s New & Who’s News
DALLAS — AECOM, a leading global infrastructure building enterprise, has named Veronica Vanterpool senior vice president, Americas Transit Lead, for its global Transportation business. In

Tariffs Keep Contractors Guessing on Material Costs; Prices Jump 6% through May on Annualized Basis
Uncertainty surrounding trade policy and its impact on materials costs could lead more contractors to hold off on shovels hitting the ground,

Taking Action on Tariffs: State Agencies Directed To Report Cost Increases, Supply Chain Disruptions
State officials are planning actions to assess cost increases and supply chain disruptions caused by the Trump Administration’s tariff policies.

Proposed Bally’s Bronx Casino Project Likely Busted After NYC Council Nix
The New York City Council’s rejection on Monday of needed land use changes will likely doom Bally Corp.’s plans to develop a $4-billion casino at

Balchem Seeks Approval to Invest $36M in Upgrade, Expansion in Orange
Montvale, NJ-based Balchem Corp. is seeking approvals to embark on a more than $36-million expansion project in Orange County.

MTA on Track to Post Record Year Of Ridership, Performance for 2025
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is on track to deliver a record-breaking year, fueled by a solid first six months of 2025.

46th Annual CIC Golf Classic Staged At Sleepy Hollow Country Club
For one joyful summer day and evening each year, the contracting community bands together at the legendary Sleepy Hollow Country Club for a day of

Congestion Tolling Results at Six Months On Track to Meet Its Goals for 2025: MTA
In its first six months of operation, New York City’s congestion pricing program has succeeded in reducing traffic and raising revenues to fund transit improvements

2ND Annual Trails to Trades Expo
More than 150 Scouts and their parents gathered for the 2025 Trails to Trades showcase on Sat., June 15 where children and teens were introduced

It’s Official: Empire City/MGM Bids For a Downstate Casino License
The high stakes gamble to secure one of three casino gaming licenses in the New York metro area has reached a key milestone with eight

$789M in State Housing Grants To Build in NYC, Mid-Hudson
New York State officials announced on June 26 that nearly 3,000 affordable, modern, energy-efficient homes will be created or preserved in communities throughout New York

MTA Board Approves $65B Capital Plan; Judge Rules to Keep Congestion Tolling
The MTA board approved a $65 billion five-year construction plan last Wednesday in a multi-platform approach to sustain and advance New York City’s mass transit

Plans for New Nuclear Power Plant In Upstate NY Wins Gov’s Support
At an appearance at the Niagara County Power Project here on Monday, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced she has directed the New York Power

DASNY Closes $74.8M Bond for Iona U. Campus Improvements, Debt Refi
The Dormitory Authority of the State of New York announced on June 24 it had closed on a $74.8 million bond issuance for Iona University

IDA-Funded Projects Hit Record Value at $136B; Mid-Hudson Tops List of New Projects at $2.4B
New York’s 106 local Industrial Development Agencies (IDAs) reported 4,282 active projects with a record high total value of nearly $136 billion in fiscal year

Downstate Casino Gaming Applications To Build Multi-Billion Projects Due Friday
The sweepstakes for up to three downstate casinos begins in earnest on Friday when applications are due to be submitted to the New York State

MTA to Begin Major Reno Projects At 3 Metro-North Stations in Bronx
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority recently announced that major accessibility upgrade and station renovation work will begin this month at three Metro-North Railroad Harlem Line stations

Local Board Rejects $607M Amazon Project, Citing Unacceptable Zoning Height Variance
WAWAYANA, NY—The plan to develop a 3.2-million-square-foot Amazon robotic fulfillment center off Route 6 in Slate Hill in Orange County was dealt a major blow

NYSDOT Region 8 Lists Upcoming Lettings For Road/Bridge Projects in 2025 thru Q4
POUGHKEEPSIE, NY—Since the start of 2025, the regional office of the New York State Department of Transportation has let nearly $100 million of road and

A Better Way to Make New York Affordable: Preempt the Scaffold Law on Federal Work
NEW YORK—Congress has a chance to cut the cost of living in New York State the same way all other states are doing. Rep. Nick

Fair Wages Built Westchester. Let’s Keep It That Way
Westchester County didn’t build itself. Generations of union labor did—brick by brick, beam by beam. They’ve paved our roads, built our train stations and constructed

Congestion Pricing Works, And NYC is Not Going Back
In less than five months, congestion pricing has helped Manhattan’s Central Business District avoid nearly 10 million vehicle trips. That’s enough cars to fill Central

Attorney’s Column – Staged Accident Could Be the Sole Proximate Cause of Plaintiff’s Injuries: Appellate Court
It’s a gross understatement to say that New York’s “Scaffold Law” is the bane of the construction industry and the business community. Scaffold Law results

Albany Update – State Makes $325M in Clean Water Grants Available
ALBANY—New York State announced on June 11 that $325 million in new funding is available for the next round of the Water Infrastructure Improvement and

Economic Outlook – Staggering (and Still Growing) National Debt Threatens U.S. Infrastructure, Safety, Health
The national debt of the United States has long been a topic of concern among economists, policymakers and citizens alike, but in recent years it

Financial Management – Ways Contractors Can Stay Competitive In Tight Surety Bond, Insurance Markets
The construction industry entered 2025 with cautious optimism yet mindful of the constant need to navigate the many market fluctuations and economic pressures that can

Argenio Brothers Begins $30 Million Project To Modernize Routes 17A, 94 in Orange County
ALBANY—New York State officials announced on June 6 that work was beginning on a multi-faceted project to construct a roundabout, replace multiple culverts and resurface

68th Annual BCA Golf Outing Draws 96 Golfers, 129 Dinner Guests on June 2
WHITE PLAINS, NY—The Starter’s sheet of tee-times was brimming with more than 24 golf foursomes who entered the 2025 BCA Golf Outing here at Westchester

Rockland County Issues RFP to Convert Sain Office Building into Workforce Housing
NEW CITY, NY—Rockland County government officials announced on June 5 that it had issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the redevelopment of the roughly

New York City Update – A New Hunts Point Marine Terminal To Spur 400 New Construction Jobs
NEW YORK – New York City officials announced on June 9 that the city will remove the decommissioned Vernon C. Bain Correctional Center barge from

NY Thruway Updates Drivers on Upcoming Bridge Replacement Project in Orange County
ALBANY—The New York State Thruway Authority recently announced that work will soon begin on a major bridge replacement project in Orange County. Starting June 13,

Safety Watch – Worker Hit by Scaffold Component Underscores Protective Measures Needed at Elevated Jobsites
A commonsense principle of scaffold safety is to protect not only those working on the elevated platforms, but also those working beneath them. A recent

$55M Briarcliff Manor Downtown Revitalization Advances with Local Development Agreement
BRIARCLIFF MANOR, NY—The Village of Briarcliff Manor and the Briarcliff Manor Local Development Corporation (LDC), in partnership with Briarhouse, LLC, announced on June 6 the

What’s New & Who’s News
MIDDLETOWN, NY—Longtime business and economic development executives Alan Seidman and Maureen Halahan were honored by the Orange County Partnership on June 3 as the organization’s

Construction Begins on Major Tuxedo Development To Create a ‘New Village’ with Housing, Shopping
Homebuilder Lennar and Related Companies broke ground earlier this month on the expansive and long-anticipated Tuxedo Reserve project here in Orange County.

In Place of Casino at Hudson Yards West, Related Is Pursuing Major Housing Plan
The New York City Council approved necessary zone changes that will allow Related Companies to add thousands of new housing units at its Hudson Yards

PSC Approves 29 Utility Projects Valued at $636.2M to Upgrade Grid
The New York State Public Service Commission approved on June 12 a portfolio of urgent infrastructure projects, as proposed by Consolidated Edison Company of New

New York GOP Lawmakers Balk At Senate Plan to Cap Salt at $10K
Most New York Republican lawmakers bristled at the draft of the Senate version of the “Big Beautiful” budget bill that would keep the SALT Cap

Panel Rejects $607M Amazon Project, Citing Zoning Height Nonconformity
Despite near-unanimous support of the region’s Building Trades and widespread endorsement for local business leaders, the massive $607-million Amazon Project now appears in peril in

$1.6B East River Tunnel rehab starts in NYC
Work has kicked off on New York City’s $1.6 billion East River Tunnel Project to repair Hurricane Sandy damage and update the century-old structure to

Groups See Severe Economic Consequences Ahead In Westchester if Current Housing Shortage Persists
A newly released report by the Westchester County Association and the Regional Plan Association estimates that the county currently has a large housing shortfall, and

Protecting Worker Safety Begins With Full Staffing at NIOSH
Thousands of Health and Human Services workers arrived at work on April 1 only to find their identification badges failed to let them into their

NY State Awards $4.2M For 6 Mid-Hudson Projects
New York recently announced that more than $50 million has been awarded to 50 projects through the State’s Restore New York Communities Initiative.

Unions Back $607M Amazon Project In Orange for Massive Robotic Plant
What was labeled the largest private industrial development project ever in Orange County is now in the approval process in the Town of Wawayanda, and

Grants Available to Upgrade Water, Sewer, Electrical for Pro-Housing Communities
New York State announced on May 22 that applications are being accepted for the new $100-million Pro-Housing Supply Fund.

DASNY Tours Port Chester’s Progress To Expand Affordable Housing Stock
Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) President and CEO Robert J. Rodriguez, in his first visit to Port Chester on May 23

New York State Announces 28 Downtown Projects In White Plains, Highland Falls and Montgomery
New York announced last week the 28 projects that will receive funding awards in the Mid-Hudson region as part of two economic development programs

Andy ‘Train Daddy’ Byford To Head Penn Station Redo
There was widespread support from state officials and the MTA to welcome the recent selection of Amtrak’s Andy Byford to lead the multi-billion-dollar redevelopment of

Judge Blocks Feds from Withholding Funds from NYS over Congestion Tolls
A federal judge granted the MTA a temporary restraining order against the Trump administration’s plan to halt the city’s congestion pricing program.

With Casino Plans at Hudson Yards Dropped, Yonkers Mayor Tells State to Fasttrack MGM
Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano in Westchester urged state officials to award full casino licenses for Yonkers at MGM Empire City Casino and the Aqueduct racino

More Midtown Apartments Coming at Former Pfizer HQ
IPA Capital Markets reported on May 19 the closing of a $720-million loan to a joint venture between Metro Loft Developers and David Werner Real

Feds Lift Stop Work Order On $5B Empire Wind Project
Negotiations between the Trump administration and New York State have resulted in the lifting of the stop work order on the $5-billion Empire Wind project

Glen Island Bridge Project Reaches Key Milestone
There’s a new bridge coming to Glen Island.

Lawmakers Deliver on Pledge to Boost Funding For Transportation in FY2026 State Budget
ALBANY—This year’s grinding state budget battle was near-historic in the making, requiring extensions for 38 days past the April 1 new fiscal year—the latest it

Westchester Joint Water Works Enters into PLA On $200M Filtration Project That’s Out to Bid
HARRISON, NY—The final resolution of water quality issues and litigation surrounding a variety of remedial proposals that have dogged Westchester Joint Water Works and its

White Plains Hospital, Union Building Trades Sign PLA on $750M Expansion Project
WHITE PLAINS—City and county officials joined White Plains Hospital and Montefiore executives to take part in a groundbreaking ceremony on May 5 for the hospital’s

MTA Congestion Toll Revenue Hitting Targets
ALBANY—With the New York State budget now approved, the focus has turned to the mechanisms to advance the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s $68.4 billion 2025-2029 Capital

Attorney’s Column – Court Buries Yet Another Contractor’s Claim In the Graveyard of Lack of Contractual Notice
A downstream contractor has no contractual relationship with a project owner; that relationship is between the general contractor (or, here, the construction manager, Hill) and

Route 17 Expansion Project on Track With Improvements, DOT Tells Forum
CHESTER, NY—The New York State Department of Transportation held a well-attended public open house on May 6 here at the Chester Senior Center to discuss

ARTBA Sees Decline in Worker Fatalities, Injuries on Highway, Bridge Projects
WASHINGTON—The highway and bridge sector is making measured progress in reducing worker deaths and injuries compared to the broader construction industry, according to an analysis

Financial Management – Building Resilience Helps Firms Prepare For Tariffs’ Potential Risks, Uncertainties
Construction companies are now contending with new disruptive forces of shifting trade policies, price volatility and other risks that are the result of new and

NY Sues U.S. DOT for Cutting Funds for EV Charging Plans
NEW YORK—New York Attorney General Letitia James and a coalition of 16 other attorneys general filed a lawsuit on May 5 against the United States

New York City Update – Office-to-Residential Conversions In Midtown Manhattan Heating Up
NEW YORK—New York City is entering a new era of office-to-residential conversions, according to a new report by commercial brokerage firm CBRE. Conversions in Midtown

Westchester to Spend $385M on County Projects, Execs Told at CIC-BCA Membership Meeting
WHITE PLAINS—More than 125 executives with the Hudson Valley’s construction and building trades attended the 2025 spring membership meeting of the Construction Industry Council of

IBM to Invest $150B in Advanced Tech, $30B in R&D in U.S. Over Next 5 Years
ARMONK, NY—To keep up with the Microsofts and Googles of the world, IBM announced plans on Mon., April 28, to invest $150 billion in America

Rockland Housing Forum Tackles High Costs, Explores New Pathways
POMONA, NY—The complex issues facing the residential housing market in Rockland County drew hundreds of major stakeholders on April 25 to develop strategies with goals

Safety Watch – Failure to Keep Trench Edges Clear From Hazards Draws OSHA Citation
The perils of cave-in or trench collapses are well-documented in this Safety Watch series, given the large number of workers who have died from such

What’s New & Who’s News
New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez joined dozens of colleagues on May 1 to celebrate retiring Hudson Valley DOT Regional Director

NYS Bridge Authority Opens Summer Internship Program
HIGHLAND, NY—The New York State Bridge Authority (NYSBA) Summer Internship is a 12-week, full-time, paid program that offers opportunities for motivated and high-potential individuals interested

NYC Issues RFP for 3 Bronx Sites To Design, Install Solar Development
New York City Economic Development Corporation called today for Request for Proposals (RFP) for roof-mounted or carport-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on three public-leased sites

Skanska Downgrades U.S Construction Outlook
In an earnings call to investors earlier this week, the head of the Swedish-based builder and developer Skanska said that customers in the U.S. have

Speed Cameras on MTA Workzones On Bridges, Tunnels Coming Soon
Speeding through a construction zone on the MTA’s bridges and tunnels will soon mean automatic fines mailed to more drivers with the expansion of a

Coalition Challenges Unlawful Conditions Feds Causing by Transportation Fund Cuts
New York Attorney General Letitia James and 19 other attorneys general yesterday sued the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for unlawfully conditioning billions of dollars

NYS Comptroller: Wall Street Volatility, Fed Funding Cuts Threaten New Budget
State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli offered a major caveat to the FY2026 State Budget

Low Bids – 05/07/2025
Paleen, Northbrook, Grace, Morano Brothers,
Harrison & Burrowes Win NYSDOT Projects

Rockland Housing Forum Tackles High Costs, Explores New Pathways
The complex issues facing the residential housing market in Rockland County drew hundreds of major stakeholders on April 25 to develop strategies to overcome some

Court Buries Contractor’s Claim Over Lack of Contractual Notice
We have written on numerous occasions about how a construction contract is meant to define the relationship between the parties, and that absent a provision

Gov Vows to Fund MTA Capital Plan; Congestion Toll Revenue on Target
The latest word is that the final state budget will include mechanisms to fully fund the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s $68.4 billion 2025-2029 Capital Plan.

White Plains Hospital, Trades Sign PLA on $750M Expansion Project
City and county officials joined White Plains Hospital and Montefiore executives to take part in a groundbreaking ceremony on May 5 for the hospital’s latest

It’s National Apprenticeship Day Today To Spur Careers, Job Advancement
Unions and other groups are celebrating National Apprenticeship Day on April 30, today to highlight the value of apprenticeships that provide real-world experience and career

IBM to Invest $150B in Advanced Tech, $30B in R&D in U.S. Over Next 5 Years
To keep up with the Microsofts and Googles of the world, IBM announced plans on Mon., April 28, to invest $150 billion in America over

Construction Jobsite Injuries Fall to 9-Year Low in NYC in 2024
New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Buildings Commissioner Jimmy Oddo released DOB’s annual New York City Construction Safety Report

ARTBA See Decline in Worker Fatalities, Injuries on Highway, Bridge Projects
The highway and bridge sector is making measured progress in reducing worker deaths and injuries compared to the broader construction industry, according to an analysis

Westchester to Spend $385M on County Projects, Execs Told at CIC-BCA Membership Meeting
More than 125 executives with the Hudson Valley’s construction and building trades attended the 2025 spring membership meeting of the Construction Industry Council.

Congestion Tolls Draws Federal Threats To Cut Highway Funding for NY City, State
In the ongoing battle between the Trump administration, New York State and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority over congestion pricing program in Manhattan, U.S. Transportation Secretary

Landmarks Shine in Orange to Honor State Highway Workers, Promote Safety
As construction season kicks into high gear statewide, New York State is amping up efforts to urge motorists to be more cautions when driving through

Region Secures $25.4M In Grants For Water Infrastructure Projects
New York State officials announced on April 17 that municipalities in Orange and Sullivan counties were granted a total of $25.4 million in funding for

NYS Bridge Authority Posts Record Bridge Traffic on Five Spans in 2024
The New York State Bridge Authority announced on April 15 that it achieved its highest-ever annual traffic volume and revenue in 2024.

Industry Leaders Forecast a Busy 2025 Despite Tariffs, Economic Uncertainty
The 11th annual Hudson Valley Construction Industry Partnership (HVCIP) luncheon at the Glenmere Mansion here on Tues., April 15.

Construction Career Expo Draws 726 Students To Explore Job Opportunities in Skilled Trades
SUFFERN, NY— Hundreds of curious high school students got an inside look at the world of building and construction late last month at the 24th

More Subway Service, Housing Coming To Essex Market Site on Lower East Side
NEW YORK—New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, Metropolitan Transportation Authority, the New York City Economic Development Corporation and Delancey Street Associates announced on April 4 the

New York City Update – Hudson Tunnel Project Spurs $4.5 Billion, 20,200 Jobs in Gross Economic Output
NEW YORK—The Gateway Development Commission commissioned a new economic impact analysis of the first five contracts in active construction on the Hudson Tunnel Project. The

Guest Viewpoint – Route 17 Project Will Improve Safety, Traffic Flow and Lower Our Emissions
The Hudson Valley is growing—in population, tourism and business relocations and expansion—and with growth comes a greater demand for mobility. This isn’t a luxury, it’s

Congestion Tolls Are Here to Stay Until October, Court Timeline Shows
NEW YORK—Court documents filed recently with the federal court in the legal battle between the federal government and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority concerning the controversial

Carpenters, Orange County DA Vow to Fight ‘Pervasive’ Tax Fraud in Construction Industry
GOSHEN, NY—In what was promised as the first in a series of “Tax Fraud Days of Action” events in the Hudson Valley region, members of

Construction Industry, Labor and Safety Advocates Push for Passage of Work Zone Safety Proposals
ALBANY—A host of construction industry, labor, government and safety advocates are pushing for several highway work zone safety programs and initiatives that are now part

Attorney’s Column – Court Reminds Upstream Contractors To Adequately Protect Pass-Through Claims
A downstream contractor has no contractual relationship with a project owner; that relationship is between the general contractor (or, here, the construction manager, Hill) and

Albany Update – Federal Funding Cut for Resiliency Projects Will Slash 325M in State Work: Hochul
ALBANY—New York Gov. Kathy Hochul released a breakdown of how the Trump administration’s cuts to the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program will impact critical

IBEW L.U. 1783 Pension Fund to Receive $46M Federal Rescue
WASHINGTON—Following years of seeking relief for an ailing multiemployer pension plan for union workers, New York’s International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Union 1783

Economic Outlook – Will Tariffs Cause Inflation? It Depends on Pain vs. Gain
Tariffs—long used as a government policy tool to protect domestic industries, generate revenue and influence international trade—also raise the economic concerns that they fuel inflation.

ECCO III Begins Route 17, Exit 122 Upgrade
TOWN OF WALLKILL, NY—The major construction project to upgrade State Route 17’s Exit 122 interchange here in Orange County will reconfigure the roadway to meet

Financial Management – Pros & Cons of Internal Transition For a Contracting Firm’s Succession
Succession planning is a pivotal process for construction business owners that ensures their legacy endures, that wealth is preserved and that their company remains stable.

Thruway Begins $19.4M Project On Two Aging Rockland Bridges
ALBANY—Work has begun in earnest on a $19.4-million New York State Thruway project to rehabilitate two aging bridges on the Thruway in the Village of

Safety Watch – Unsafe Use of Powered Industrial Trucks Result in 100 Fatalities Each Year: US DOL
The use of powered industrial trucks are a significant source of serious and fatal injuries to workers. Violations for the unsafe operation of powered industrial

DeFoe Begins Nearly $87 Million Paving Project on I-95/N.E. Thruway
ALBANY—New York State officials announced on April 7 the start of a $86.7-million pavement improvement project on a nearly five-mile stretch of the New England

Dormitory Authority Plans $150M Youth Detention Facility in Valhalla
The Dormitory Authority of the State of New York issued a request for proposals (RFP) on April 10 to provide construction management services for the

Report: 82,000 Homes in New York Likely Lost to Flooding in 15 Years
With the dual threats of climate change and a lack of housing looming over coastal cities worldwide, a new report last week forecasts that New

NYS Thruway Post Record Revenue in 2024; Truck Traffic Slightly Off on Cuomo Bridge
Buoyed by toll increases that took effect last year, revenue on the New York State Thruway surpassed $1 billion for the first time in the

MTA Unveils $800M Blueprint For Hudson Line Climate Resilience
The MTA announced on April 9 an $800-million initiative to protect the Hudson Line from the effects of climate change through investments that will fortify

Feds Cancelling Resiliency Programs Will Slash 325M in State Work: Hochul
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul released a breakdown yesterday of how the Trump administration’s cuts to the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program will impact

Low Bids
Low Bids 02/09/2025
10 Firms Win NYSDOT Projects In the Hudson Valley Region 8
Sea Breeze, Scape Tech, Fred A. Cook Secure Project Work in

Trump Tariffs to Cause Higher Costs, Projects Delays, Possible Recession
The worldwide fallout from President Trump’s actions to recast worldwide trade relations through tariffs have economists and experts in the construction and building industries expecting

Congestion Tolls Here to Stay Till At Least October: Court
Court documents filed recently with the federal court in the legal battle between the federal government and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority concerning the controversial congestion

DeFoe Begins Nearly $87 Million Paving Project on I-95/N.E. Thruway
New York State officials announced on April 7 the start of a $86.7-million pavement improvement project on a nearly five-mile stretch of the New England

ECCO III Enterprises Completes $66M Bronx Bridge Replacement
New York State officials announced on March 31 the completion of a $66.4-million project that began more than three years ago.

State Budget Extended to April 3 as Pols Wrestle with Massive Federal Funding Cuts
The New York State lawmakers, grappling with bail reform, funding the MTA’s capital plan and predicting the amount and impacts of expected massive cuts in

726 Hudson Valley Youths Learn Job Skills At 24th Annual Construction Career Day
Hundreds of local high school students met with experts in the Building Trades to engage in skill-development activities and to learn more about dozens of

Rockland Launches New Website For Countywide Comprehensive Plan
Rockland County Executive Ed Day announced on March 28 the launch of www.envisionrockland.com, a website dedicated to the Countywide Comprehensive Plan update.

Court Reminds Upstream Contractors To Adequately Protect Pass-Through Claims
A downstream contractor has no contractual relationship with a project owner; that relationship is between the general contractor (or, here, the construction manager, Hill) and

ASCE Report Card: Spending Gap to Fix U.S. Infrastructure Climbs to $3.7 Trillion
The American Society of Civil Engineers released its annual report card on America’s infrastructure last week and gave it a grade of “C.”

Construction Industry, Labor and Safety Advocates Push for Passage of Work Zone Safety Proposals
A host of construction industry, labor, government and safety advocates are pushing for several highway work zone safety programs and initiatives that are now part

H.V. Construction Career Events Staged in Rockland March 27-28
SUFFERN, NY—High school students from across the Hudson Valley will meet with union building trade experts—as part of an introduction to skills-building and technical training

Congestion Pricing Revenue Hits Revenue Targets in February: MTA
NEW YORK—In just two months of operation, the congestion relief program is ticking all the boxes it was designed for: it’s meeting revenue projections and

ECCO III Begins Route 17, Exit 122 Upgrade
TOWN OF WALLKILL, NY—The major construction project to upgrade State Route 17’s Exit 122 interchange here in Orange County will reconfigure the roadway to meet

Thruway Begins $19.4M Project On Two Aging Rockland Bridges
ALBANY—Work has begun in earnest on a $19.4-million New York State Thruway project to rehabilitate two aging bridges on the Thruway in the Village of

IBEW L.U. 1783 Pension Fund to Receive $46M Federal Rescue
WASHINGTON—Following years of seeking relief for an ailing multiemployer pension plan for union workers, New York’s International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Union 1783

State Businesses Urge Lawmakers To Fund MTA’s $68B Capital Plan
ALBANY—New York State’s largest association of business organizations told lawmakers here it is “imperative” for them to fully fund the MTA’s $68.4 billion capital program,

Longtime Congresswoman Nita Lowey Environment, Women’s Rights Champion
Former U.S. Rep. Nita Lowey, who tirelessly served constituents in Westchester, the Bronx and Rockland counties for more than three decades, passed away on March

NYS to Fund $175M in EFC Loans For Kensico-Eastview, Hillview Work
The New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation recently approved $340 million in financial assistance for water infrastructure improvement projects across New York State.

Federal Cuts Put at Risk $2B Inflation Reduction Act Funding
A new report released by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli details New York’s financial impact from the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), including close to

Senate ‘One-House Budget’ Proposal Boosts Transportation Investments
2025-2026 State Budget, State Senate Transportation Committee Chairman Jeremy Cooney (D-Rochester) put into context the road, bridge and mass transit funding proposals of his chamber’s

Do Tariffs Cause Inflation? It Depends on Their Impacts
Tariffs—long used as a government policy tool to protect domestic industries, generate revenue and influence international trade—also raise the economic concerns that they fuel inflation.

Coalition Finds a Partner in Gov. Hochul With Proposal to Add $800M to NYSDOT
ELMSFORD, NY —A coalition led by the Construction Industry Council of Westchester & Hudson Valley and local construction trade unions is demanding state lawmakers allocate

Industry’s Workforce of the Future Poses Opportunities and Threats
NAPLES, FL—With the arrival of the new construction season fast approaching, company executives and union officials from New York’s downstate region convened late last month

New York City Update – Riders Alliance, Sierra Club Look to Join MTA Suit to Save Congestion Pricing
NEW YORK—In the battle to save or scuttle New York City’s congestion pricing, two organizations backing the controversial tolling program have lodged new complaints against

Orange County Gets New FAST NY Grant For Studies at Roseton Power Plant Site
NEWBURGH—New York announced last month that $32.6 million had been awarded to improve seven locations under the Focused Attraction of Shovel-Ready Tracts New York grant

Attorney’s Column – Court Rejects ‘Piggybacking’ Contracts For Public Works, Requiring New Bid
A section of the General Municipal Law requires that with several narrow exceptions, any contract for public work more than $35,000 must be sent out

Albany Update – New York State Senate Advance Bills On Workplace Protections, Wage Theft
ALBANY–A group of New York State lawmakers are advancing legislation that aims to enhance workplace protections and combat wage theft, it was announced this week.

$80M for Climate Resiliency Projects Subject of DEC Webinar on March 12
ALBANY—New York State officials announced on Feb. 26 a total of $80 million in new grant funding will be available to communities across New York

NYS Bridge Authority Begins Hearings On Bear Mountain Bridge Redecking
FORT MONTGOMERY, NY—The New York State Bridge Authority has recently launched the public engagement process on a plan to redeck the storied Bear Mountain Bridge

Financial Management – Industry M&A: What Succession Plan Is Right for Your Business?
For construction firm owners contemplating the future, mergers and acquisitions within the sector represent a strategic succession planning option. An industry M&A can provide immediate

Safety Watch – Rope Lines Must Be Reachable By Workers When Working from Heights
Among the most-cited violations by OSHA following work-site inspections in construction are those related to fall protection failures. Fall protection must be provided to all

What’s New & Who’s News
GOSHEN—Maureen Halahan, a true icon in the economic development field in the Hudson Valley, is retiring in June as the highly affable and effective leader

Poughkeepsie, Nyack, Dobbs Ferry To Share $19M in Development Grants
New York State officials announced on Tuesday that the City of Poughkeepsie will receive $10 million in funding as the Mid-Hudson winner of the eighth

Fordham U. Receives $100M Gift To Build STEM Facility in Bronx
Fordham University announced last week a $100-million gift to fuel a major investment in the future of STEM education

More New Yorkers Want to Keep Congestion Tolling, Sienna Poll Finds
A larger percentage of NYC residents want congestion pricing to stay, sending a message to the Trump administration that his treat to remove the tolls

Worker Misclassification Bill Passes NY State Senate
Legislation protecting workers who are misclassified by their employers recently passed in the State Senate by a unanimous 61-0.

7-Year Campaign on GWB Replaces All 592 Original Suspender Ropes
The Port Authority of NY & NJ announced last week it had completed a seven-year effort to replace all 592 original suspender ropes on the

Court Rejects ‘Piggybacking’ Contracts For Public Works, Requiring New Bid
A section of the General Municipal Law requires that with several narrow exceptions, any contract for public work more than $35,000 must be sent out

Orange County Gets New FAST NY Grant For Studies at Roseton Power Plant Site
New York announced last month that $32.6 million had been awarded to improve seven locations under the Focused Attraction of Shovel-Ready Tracts New York grant

House Panel Hears Call for Work Safety, Buy America from Transportation Coalition
WASHINGTON—The 2021 federal infrastructure funding law was a much-needed course correction after years of status quo investment, but delivering the surface transportation network our nation

$80M for Climate Resiliency Projects Subject of DEC Webinar on March 12
New York State officials announced on Feb. 26 a total of $80 million in new grant funding will be available to communities across New York

Gov. Hochul’s Call to Add $800M to Budget Will Help Fix our Bad Roads and Bridges
$250M Needed for DOT Local Roads CHIPS Program

Gov. Hochul Draws Praise for Boosting NYSDOT Capital Plan by $800M in FY26
A coalition led by the Construction Industry Council of Westchester & Hudson Valley, local union leaders and elected officials is calling on all state lawmakers

Tutor Perini JV Signing Contract For $3.7B Manhattan Jail Project
Tutor Perini Corporation recently announced that the Tutor Perini-O&G Joint Venture is in the process of executing contract documents for the previously announced Manhattan Jail

Need More DEC Oversight of Dams To Protect Public Safety: Comptroller
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation should improve oversight and enforcement of compliance with the state’s dam safety regulations to guard against potential

Congestion Relief Plan Toll Revenues Beat Expectations, Ridership Goals
Metropolitan Transportation Authority reported that the congestion relief plan through tolling is raising revenues above its earlier projections

NYPA Pays $30M for New HQ At Downtown White Plains Site
The New York Power Authority took another major step forward when it paid a likely record of $30 million earlier this month to acquire a

DiNapoli Sees Shortfall for MTA In Proposed Executive Budget
ALBANY—In his annual report released on Feb. 14 that assessed the proposed 2026 Executive Budget, New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli noted a key

Comptroller Cites Risks, Concerns With Gov. Hochul’s Budget Plan
Gov. Kathy Hochul’s proposed budget is now getting the fine-tooth comb analysis from New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. On Feb. 14, he identified the

Tariffs: How Construction Contractors Can Prepare for Pricing Uncertainty Ahead
Here’s a new oxymoron worth jotting down. Certain Uncertainty. In the case of looming tariffs ahead—this could occur as early as March.

Forecast 2025 – Robust Pipeline of Highway, Bridgework, Sewer, Energy, Transit to Power Sectors, Trades Report
TARRYTOWN, NY– Despite economic and political uncertainties of the past two months caused by pronouncements and actions in Washington, regional construction officials are steadfast in

Gov. Adds $800M to Budget to Fill Capital Program Gap
ALBANY—It took more than four years of urging from a committed and well-prepared triumvirate of construction executives, organized labor and regional elected officials to finally

MTA Capital Plan Would Spur $106 Billion For State Economy, $6.1B for Hudson Valley
NEW YORK—The MTA Capital Plan for 2025-2029 will generate $106 billion in economic activity and more than 70,000 jobs statewide according to a new analysis

Cost of Congestion, Rough Roads to a Metro Area Motorist $3,492 Annually
NEW YORK—Roads and bridges that are deteriorated, congested or lack some desirable safety features cost New York motorists a total of $38 billion statewide annually—$3,492

Congestion Pricing Program Post Early Advances: MTA
NEW YORK—The congestion zone pricing program is gaining supporters as it removes vehicles, improves travel time and creates new capacity on city roads. Initial signs

Appeals Court Rejects Trump’s Attempt To Stop Federal Funding Freeze Order
NEW YORK – Following the initial court victory for New York Attorney General Letitia James and a coalition of 22 attorneys general—who successfully halted implementation

Attorney’s Column – Triggering Event for Shortened Limitations Period Must Be Unequivocal: Court
There are many ways to manage the contractual risks associated with a construction project. One of these ways is to include a contractual provision shortening

Rockland Housing Program Awards $13.5M For Four Action Loan Opportunity Projects
NEW CITY—Four Housing Action Loan Opportunity (HALO) Awards and projects involving up to $13.5 million in loans, were announced on Jan. 31.

Commercial Real Estate is Banking on 2025
WHITE PLAINS, NY–To understand the commercial market in 2025, it’s good to know its modern history. In the 1970 and 1980s it grew and grew

Economic Outlook – $30 Trillion Debt and Annual Deficit Will Force Hard Choices for Budget Cutters
The federal budget is a critical tool for governing the United States, outlining how taxpayer money is allocated to support a variety of government functions.

New York City Update – NYCDEP Invested $165M in H.V., Serving Half the State Population for Drinking Water
NEW YORK—The New York City Department of Environmental Protection announced recently the completion of payments of $165 million in local village, town, city, county and

Gateway Development Commission Awards $1.8 Billion Manhattan Tunnel Project to JV
NEW YORK—The Gateway Development Commission (GDC) Board of Commissioners awarded on Feb. 3 the contract for the Manhattan Tunnel Project to Frontier-Kemper-Tutor-Perini JV and authorized

ConEd’s Plan for $21M Upgrades Draws Gov.’s Criticism, Calls for Utility Audit
NEW YORK—Con Edison has proposed a massive $21-billion investment to maintain and upgrade its infrastructure in New York City and Westchester County to the New

Albany Update – Doing Business with NYSDOT
ALBANY—New York State Department of Transportation sent a notice earlier this month regarding upcoming revisions to its “Standard Specifications and Bidder Requirements” that are effective

Safety Watch – Bad Trenching Tipoff to OSHA Leads To Call for Hazardous Material Training
Various materials are used in construction activities, including those deemed hazardous to human health. Therefore, companies must ensure that they have an adequate and updated

New Housing Development Surge Not Spiking School Enrollments: Study
WHITE PLAINS, NY–A newly released report on the new multifamily housing development boom and its impacts on communities in Westchester County refutes the long-standing premise

Financial Management – A Keyway to Succeed at Succession is by Laying the Proper Groundwork
For many construction firm owners, the right transition isn’t just about choosing the right exit strategy or succession plan, it’s about ensuring the business is

What’s New & Who’s News
WASHINGTON—The U.S. Senate voted 77-22 Tuesday to confirm Sean Duffy to head the Department of Transportation. Democrats who previously expressed support for Mr. Duffy voted

Jenkins Wins Special Election
Democrat Ken Jenkins easily defeated Republican Christine Sculti to serve out the remaining year of George Latimer’s term as Westchester County Executive in a Special

Congestion Pricing Program Post Early Advances: MTA
The congestion zone pricing program is gaining supporters as it removes vehicles, improves travel time and creates new capacity on city roads.

EFC Offers $18 Million in Grants
The application period is open for the Green Innovation Grant and Wastewater Infrastructure Engineering Planning Grant program, it was announced by New York State Environmental

MTA 2025-2029 Capital Plan
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority has announced it will host the fifth in a series of Open Houses on the 2025–2029 Capital Plan at the White

PLAs Under Review: USDOD Shifts Policy, Will Not Use PLAs in Contracts over $35M
Following a federal claims court judge ruling in January that the policy of collective bargaining agreements with labor organizations violated the “Competition in Contracting Act”

Rockland County Unveils $13.5 Million in Housing Action Loan Opportunity Awards
Rockland County Executive Ed Day, alongside the Office of Community Development, County Legislators, award recipients, municipal leaders, and more, officially announced the four Housing Action

Con Edison Proposes $21-Billion Multi-Year Infrastructure Investment Plan to State PSC
Con Edison, in conjunction with a rate hike request, has proposed a massive $21-billion investment to maintain and upgrade its infrastructure in New York City

Two New Yorkers Take Lead Roles at EPA
A former New York Congressman from Long Island and a former State Senator from the Hudson Valley are taking lead roles at the U.S. Environmental

Coalition of 22 Attorneys General Hail Court Victories Stopping Fed. Funding Freeze
New York Attorney General Letitia James and a coalition of 22 attorneys general celebrated winning a court order halting the implementation of a Trump administration

Price Tag Statewide is $38 Billion
Report: Congestion, Rough Roads Cost NYC Metro Area Motorists $3,500 Per Year

Massive Federal Budget Cuts Take Time Due to Difficult, Hard Choices
The federal budget is a critical tool for governing the United States, outlining how taxpayer money is allocated to support a variety of government functions.

State Gaming Facility Location Board Names Phillips, Reimers as Members
ALBANY—As a number of prospective casino projects in the downstate region wind their way through the municipal approval process as they prepare to file formal

Senate Confirms Sean Duffy As U.S. Transportation Secretary
WASHINGTON—The U.S. Senate voted 77-22 Tuesday to confirm Sean Duffy to head the Department of Transportation. Democrats who previously expressed support for Mr. Duffy voted

Student Enrollment Doesn’t Spike Due to New Housing Boom: Study
WHITE PLAINS, NY–A newly released report on the new multifamily housing development boom and its impacts on communities in Westchester County refutes the long-standing premise

A Fully Funded MTA Capital Plan Invests $6.1B into H.V.’s Economy
NEW YORK—The MTA Capital Plan for 2025-2029 will generate $106 billion in economic activity and more than 70,000 jobs statewide, according to a new analysis

Low Bids News Jan 29
Low bid news
– NYSDOT Welcomes In 2025 With 10 Bid Awards in H.V. / NYC
– Joe Lombardo, Mace, Moy, Wind River

Strange Bedfellows: NJ Gov. Murphy, Trump Intersect on Congestion Pricing
Following the failed attempts in federal courts by New Jersey to stop New York’s congestion pricing program, Gov. Phil Murphy is now appealing to the

5 GOP House Members Could Doom Trump Tax Bill Over SALT Reform
New legislation with bipartisan support in the Congress was introduced on Jan. 23 that would eliminate the SALT Cap marriage penalty. At a press conference

Longtime Transit Exec. Tom Prendergast To Head Gateway Hudson Tunnel Project
NEW YORK—The Gateway Development Commission announced it had appointed Thomas “Tom” Prendergast as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The announcement was made following its Board meeting

Low Bids News
Low bid news
El Sol Contracting, Roadwork Ahead,
DeAngelo Win NYSDOT Contract Work

The CIC Applauds Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Proposed Boost to Transportation Funding
The Construction Industry Council of Westchester & Hudson Valley applauds Gov. Kathy Hochul’s proposal to boost by more than $1 billion in additional transportation resources

Gov. Adds $800M for Highways, Bridges to Upcoming FY26 Budget
ALBANY—Heeding the prolonged and fervent calls from construction industry advocates to address the erosion to purchasing power caused by four years of punishing inflation, Gov.

MGM Empire City Casino Proposal Draws Raves at Yonkers Hearing
YONKERS—Of the many casino projects vying for a full casino gaming license from the New York State Gaming Commission, MGM Resorts here in Westchester went

With Congestion Tolls Underway, State Officials Now Face Massive MTA Capital Program Deficit
NEW YORK—Will the new revenues streaming from congestion tolling infuse public coffers with enough money to fill the budget deficit in the MTA’s capital program—estimated

Gov.’s State-of-the-State Address Promotes Rail, Climate, Housing, Childcare Funding Goals
ALBANY—In advance of her 2025 State of the State address on Jan. 14, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced a series of funding initiatives geared

Commentary – Invest in Clean Water Infrastructure For the Health and Sustainability of Our Communities
Sen. Pete Harckham – I have been fighting for increased investments in New York’s roadway and clean water infrastructure since taking office in the State

FHWA Earmarks $32M to Advance Use of Low Carbon Materials
ALBANY—The New York State Department of Transportation has received a $32-million grant to advance the use of low carbon materials in construction
projects.

Environmental Facilities Board Approves $428M For Local Water, Sewer Infrastructure Projects
ALBANY—The Environmental Facilities Corporation Board of Directors recently approved more than $428 million in financial assistance for water infrastructure improvement projects across New York State.

Attorney’s Column – Court: A License Is a Prerequisite To Recovering Contract Monies
The case of Electrical Contracting Solutions Corp. v Trump Village Section 4 Inc., reported here last June reminded contractors that, where a license is required

Major Investment in Hudson Valley Rail Service Part of Gov. Hochul’s 2025 State of the State
ALBANY—Funding for a major transportation program designed to increase rail service capacity, reduce delays, improve safety and cut potential travel times in the Hudson Valley

MGM Resorts Reaches $5 Billion Milestone In Funds Generated for Education in NYS
YONKERS—For nearly two decades, Empire City has served as a major economic engine for Westchester, the surrounding area and all of New York State. Empire

Safety Watch – Winter Months Can Challenge Safety Mechanisms On Work Vehicles, Warranting Greater Attention
Many motor vehicles, including those in the construction industry, are equipped with rear-view cameras, but older vehicles in use may not have them. The perils

Making a Career of it
Over the past four decades, Mike Popp has channeled the suffering and despair he personally experienced as a young man into the hope and recovery

New York City Update – New York City Selects Team for Long-Awaited Redevelopment of Storied Kingsbridge Armory
NEW YORK—Following many failed attempts to reimagine the 108-year-old facility, New York City announced on Tues., Jan. 7, it had selected the team that will

NYS Enacts $75-Billion Climate Superfund
ALBANY—After the State Legislature passed the measure in June, Gov. Kathy Hochul on Dec. 26 signed legislation aimed at bolstering New York’s efforts to protect

US DOL Finalizes PPE Proper Fit Rule To Protect Site Workers from Hazards
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor announced recently that its Occupational Safety and Health Administration had finalized a revision to the personal protective equipment
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DIGGING INTO THE OPPORTUNITY
A $2.2 billion project backed by private funding, with land secured and labor partnerships already in place, Empire City Casino’s proposed expansion is an economic development boon for the region – and an unprecedented job creation opportunity for our industry.
The shovel-ready project unlocks 10,000 construction jobs, includes 2,000 direct hires, and generates thousands of indirect and induced jobs.
With a long-standing history of being a union-friendly employer, Empire City Casino’s growth is the job creation event we’ve been waiting for.

THE TIMELINE


WHY IT MATTERS
As the largest private employer in Yonkers, a longtime supporter of organized labor (current workforce is 80% union) and a strong contributor to our schools ($5 million to date), Empire City plays a critical role in the region’s economy. Without a full casino license, its long-term viability would be compromised amidst increased competition from nearby casinos. Yonkers leading economic development engine needs our support.


Empire City/MGM Resorts Envisions Late 2027 Opening if it Wins Downstate Casino License
YONKERS—The high stakes gamble to secure one of three casino gaming licenses in the New York metro area has reached a key milestone with eight

State Earmarks $789 Million in Housing Grantst to Create Energy-Efficient Homes Downstate
ALBANY—New York State officials recently announced that nearly 3,000 affordable, modern and energy-efficient homes will be created or preserved in communities throughout New York State

New York City Update – NYC Construction Employment Still Short of Pre-Pandemic Levels: Comptroller
ALBANY—Despite having the fourth-largest construction sector in the nation, New York state is one of five states that have not recovered from pandemic job losses

Congestion Tolling Results at Six Months On Track to Meet Its Goals for 2025: MTA
NEW YORK—In its first six months of operation, New York City’s congestion pricing program has succeeded in reducing traffic and raising revenues to fund transit

Attorney’s Column – Shortened Limitations Period Must Be Reasonable to Protect Claims: Court
Back in February, we wrote about the case of Gibraltar Contracting, Inc. v. Tully Construction Co., Inc., in which the parties attempted to shorten a

Albany Update – State Unveils Draft 2050 Transportation Plan To Garner Comments, Recommendations
ALBANY—New York State announced on June 11 that $325 million in new funding is available for the next round of the Water Infrastructure Improvement and

Financial Management – Call for Contractors to Enhance Cybersecurity To Protect Public Projects from Digital Threats
Cyberattacks are no longer rare events or problems exclusive to Fortune 500 tech firms—they’re a growing threat that spans every industry and company size, including

46th Annual CIC Golf Classic Attracts Hundreds to Summer Social
SCARBOROUGH, NY— For one joyful summer day each year, the contracting community gathers, with golf clubs and fellowship to support industry affairs, at the CIC

Orange County to Purchase, Revitalize The Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center
GOSHEN, NY—The Orange County Legislature voted 21-0 on July 1 to approve the county’s purchase of the Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center (SLPAC), advancing County

Orange-Ulster BOCES Capital Program Advances with $134.2M Bond Financing
ALBANY—The Dormitory Authority of the State of New York recently closed on the $134,185,000 Series 2025 bond issuance for the Board of Cooperative Educational Services

Next Generation Leader – Giuliana Piazza
Next Gen Leaders Profiles of the Industry’s New Generation Giuliana Piazza Building Contractors Association / Construction Advancement Institute Scholarship Winner Profile Current Employer: Shiseido Americas

Hochul Directs NYPA to Develop, Build New Nuclear Power Plant Upstate
LEWISTON, NY—At an appearance at the Niagara County Power Project here in late June, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced she has directed the New

Safety Watch – Vertically Stored Roof Trusses, Even for a Moment, Cause Serious Injury When Gravity Has Its Way
Workplace safety failures related to materials storage continue to be a significant source of serious injuries and citations on construction and manufacturing sites. The recent

What’s New & Who’s News
DALLAS — AECOM, a leading global infrastructure building enterprise, has named Veronica Vanterpool senior vice president, Americas Transit Lead, for its global Transportation business. In

Tariffs Keep Contractors Guessing on Material Costs; Prices Jump 6% through May on Annualized Basis
Uncertainty surrounding trade policy and its impact on materials costs could lead more contractors to hold off on shovels hitting the ground,

Taking Action on Tariffs: State Agencies Directed To Report Cost Increases, Supply Chain Disruptions
State officials are planning actions to assess cost increases and supply chain disruptions caused by the Trump Administration’s tariff policies.

Proposed Bally’s Bronx Casino Project Likely Busted After NYC Council Nix
The New York City Council’s rejection on Monday of needed land use changes will likely doom Bally Corp.’s plans to develop a $4-billion casino at

Balchem Seeks Approval to Invest $36M in Upgrade, Expansion in Orange
Montvale, NJ-based Balchem Corp. is seeking approvals to embark on a more than $36-million expansion project in Orange County.

MTA on Track to Post Record Year Of Ridership, Performance for 2025
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is on track to deliver a record-breaking year, fueled by a solid first six months of 2025.

46th Annual CIC Golf Classic Staged At Sleepy Hollow Country Club
For one joyful summer day and evening each year, the contracting community bands together at the legendary Sleepy Hollow Country Club for a day of

Congestion Tolling Results at Six Months On Track to Meet Its Goals for 2025: MTA
In its first six months of operation, New York City’s congestion pricing program has succeeded in reducing traffic and raising revenues to fund transit improvements

2ND Annual Trails to Trades Expo
More than 150 Scouts and their parents gathered for the 2025 Trails to Trades showcase on Sat., June 15 where children and teens were introduced

It’s Official: Empire City/MGM Bids For a Downstate Casino License
The high stakes gamble to secure one of three casino gaming licenses in the New York metro area has reached a key milestone with eight

$789M in State Housing Grants To Build in NYC, Mid-Hudson
New York State officials announced on June 26 that nearly 3,000 affordable, modern, energy-efficient homes will be created or preserved in communities throughout New York

MTA Board Approves $65B Capital Plan; Judge Rules to Keep Congestion Tolling
The MTA board approved a $65 billion five-year construction plan last Wednesday in a multi-platform approach to sustain and advance New York City’s mass transit

Plans for New Nuclear Power Plant In Upstate NY Wins Gov’s Support
At an appearance at the Niagara County Power Project here on Monday, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced she has directed the New York Power

DASNY Closes $74.8M Bond for Iona U. Campus Improvements, Debt Refi
The Dormitory Authority of the State of New York announced on June 24 it had closed on a $74.8 million bond issuance for Iona University

IDA-Funded Projects Hit Record Value at $136B; Mid-Hudson Tops List of New Projects at $2.4B
New York’s 106 local Industrial Development Agencies (IDAs) reported 4,282 active projects with a record high total value of nearly $136 billion in fiscal year

Downstate Casino Gaming Applications To Build Multi-Billion Projects Due Friday
The sweepstakes for up to three downstate casinos begins in earnest on Friday when applications are due to be submitted to the New York State

MTA to Begin Major Reno Projects At 3 Metro-North Stations in Bronx
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority recently announced that major accessibility upgrade and station renovation work will begin this month at three Metro-North Railroad Harlem Line stations

Local Board Rejects $607M Amazon Project, Citing Unacceptable Zoning Height Variance
WAWAYANA, NY—The plan to develop a 3.2-million-square-foot Amazon robotic fulfillment center off Route 6 in Slate Hill in Orange County was dealt a major blow

NYSDOT Region 8 Lists Upcoming Lettings For Road/Bridge Projects in 2025 thru Q4
POUGHKEEPSIE, NY—Since the start of 2025, the regional office of the New York State Department of Transportation has let nearly $100 million of road and

A Better Way to Make New York Affordable: Preempt the Scaffold Law on Federal Work
NEW YORK—Congress has a chance to cut the cost of living in New York State the same way all other states are doing. Rep. Nick

Fair Wages Built Westchester. Let’s Keep It That Way
Westchester County didn’t build itself. Generations of union labor did—brick by brick, beam by beam. They’ve paved our roads, built our train stations and constructed

Congestion Pricing Works, And NYC is Not Going Back
In less than five months, congestion pricing has helped Manhattan’s Central Business District avoid nearly 10 million vehicle trips. That’s enough cars to fill Central

Attorney’s Column – Staged Accident Could Be the Sole Proximate Cause of Plaintiff’s Injuries: Appellate Court
It’s a gross understatement to say that New York’s “Scaffold Law” is the bane of the construction industry and the business community. Scaffold Law results

Albany Update – State Makes $325M in Clean Water Grants Available
ALBANY—New York State announced on June 11 that $325 million in new funding is available for the next round of the Water Infrastructure Improvement and

Economic Outlook – Staggering (and Still Growing) National Debt Threatens U.S. Infrastructure, Safety, Health
The national debt of the United States has long been a topic of concern among economists, policymakers and citizens alike, but in recent years it

Financial Management – Ways Contractors Can Stay Competitive In Tight Surety Bond, Insurance Markets
The construction industry entered 2025 with cautious optimism yet mindful of the constant need to navigate the many market fluctuations and economic pressures that can

Argenio Brothers Begins $30 Million Project To Modernize Routes 17A, 94 in Orange County
ALBANY—New York State officials announced on June 6 that work was beginning on a multi-faceted project to construct a roundabout, replace multiple culverts and resurface

68th Annual BCA Golf Outing Draws 96 Golfers, 129 Dinner Guests on June 2
WHITE PLAINS, NY—The Starter’s sheet of tee-times was brimming with more than 24 golf foursomes who entered the 2025 BCA Golf Outing here at Westchester

Rockland County Issues RFP to Convert Sain Office Building into Workforce Housing
NEW CITY, NY—Rockland County government officials announced on June 5 that it had issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the redevelopment of the roughly

New York City Update – A New Hunts Point Marine Terminal To Spur 400 New Construction Jobs
NEW YORK – New York City officials announced on June 9 that the city will remove the decommissioned Vernon C. Bain Correctional Center barge from

NY Thruway Updates Drivers on Upcoming Bridge Replacement Project in Orange County
ALBANY—The New York State Thruway Authority recently announced that work will soon begin on a major bridge replacement project in Orange County. Starting June 13,

Safety Watch – Worker Hit by Scaffold Component Underscores Protective Measures Needed at Elevated Jobsites
A commonsense principle of scaffold safety is to protect not only those working on the elevated platforms, but also those working beneath them. A recent

$55M Briarcliff Manor Downtown Revitalization Advances with Local Development Agreement
BRIARCLIFF MANOR, NY—The Village of Briarcliff Manor and the Briarcliff Manor Local Development Corporation (LDC), in partnership with Briarhouse, LLC, announced on June 6 the

What’s New & Who’s News
MIDDLETOWN, NY—Longtime business and economic development executives Alan Seidman and Maureen Halahan were honored by the Orange County Partnership on June 3 as the organization’s

Construction Begins on Major Tuxedo Development To Create a ‘New Village’ with Housing, Shopping
Homebuilder Lennar and Related Companies broke ground earlier this month on the expansive and long-anticipated Tuxedo Reserve project here in Orange County.

In Place of Casino at Hudson Yards West, Related Is Pursuing Major Housing Plan
The New York City Council approved necessary zone changes that will allow Related Companies to add thousands of new housing units at its Hudson Yards

PSC Approves 29 Utility Projects Valued at $636.2M to Upgrade Grid
The New York State Public Service Commission approved on June 12 a portfolio of urgent infrastructure projects, as proposed by Consolidated Edison Company of New

New York GOP Lawmakers Balk At Senate Plan to Cap Salt at $10K
Most New York Republican lawmakers bristled at the draft of the Senate version of the “Big Beautiful” budget bill that would keep the SALT Cap

Panel Rejects $607M Amazon Project, Citing Zoning Height Nonconformity
Despite near-unanimous support of the region’s Building Trades and widespread endorsement for local business leaders, the massive $607-million Amazon Project now appears in peril in

$1.6B East River Tunnel rehab starts in NYC
Work has kicked off on New York City’s $1.6 billion East River Tunnel Project to repair Hurricane Sandy damage and update the century-old structure to

Groups See Severe Economic Consequences Ahead In Westchester if Current Housing Shortage Persists
A newly released report by the Westchester County Association and the Regional Plan Association estimates that the county currently has a large housing shortfall, and

Protecting Worker Safety Begins With Full Staffing at NIOSH
Thousands of Health and Human Services workers arrived at work on April 1 only to find their identification badges failed to let them into their

NY State Awards $4.2M For 6 Mid-Hudson Projects
New York recently announced that more than $50 million has been awarded to 50 projects through the State’s Restore New York Communities Initiative.

Unions Back $607M Amazon Project In Orange for Massive Robotic Plant
What was labeled the largest private industrial development project ever in Orange County is now in the approval process in the Town of Wawayanda, and

Grants Available to Upgrade Water, Sewer, Electrical for Pro-Housing Communities
New York State announced on May 22 that applications are being accepted for the new $100-million Pro-Housing Supply Fund.

DASNY Tours Port Chester’s Progress To Expand Affordable Housing Stock
Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) President and CEO Robert J. Rodriguez, in his first visit to Port Chester on May 23

New York State Announces 28 Downtown Projects In White Plains, Highland Falls and Montgomery
New York announced last week the 28 projects that will receive funding awards in the Mid-Hudson region as part of two economic development programs

Andy ‘Train Daddy’ Byford To Head Penn Station Redo
There was widespread support from state officials and the MTA to welcome the recent selection of Amtrak’s Andy Byford to lead the multi-billion-dollar redevelopment of

Judge Blocks Feds from Withholding Funds from NYS over Congestion Tolls
A federal judge granted the MTA a temporary restraining order against the Trump administration’s plan to halt the city’s congestion pricing program.

With Casino Plans at Hudson Yards Dropped, Yonkers Mayor Tells State to Fasttrack MGM
Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano in Westchester urged state officials to award full casino licenses for Yonkers at MGM Empire City Casino and the Aqueduct racino

More Midtown Apartments Coming at Former Pfizer HQ
IPA Capital Markets reported on May 19 the closing of a $720-million loan to a joint venture between Metro Loft Developers and David Werner Real

Feds Lift Stop Work Order On $5B Empire Wind Project
Negotiations between the Trump administration and New York State have resulted in the lifting of the stop work order on the $5-billion Empire Wind project

Glen Island Bridge Project Reaches Key Milestone
There’s a new bridge coming to Glen Island.

Lawmakers Deliver on Pledge to Boost Funding For Transportation in FY2026 State Budget
ALBANY—This year’s grinding state budget battle was near-historic in the making, requiring extensions for 38 days past the April 1 new fiscal year—the latest it

Westchester Joint Water Works Enters into PLA On $200M Filtration Project That’s Out to Bid
HARRISON, NY—The final resolution of water quality issues and litigation surrounding a variety of remedial proposals that have dogged Westchester Joint Water Works and its

White Plains Hospital, Union Building Trades Sign PLA on $750M Expansion Project
WHITE PLAINS—City and county officials joined White Plains Hospital and Montefiore executives to take part in a groundbreaking ceremony on May 5 for the hospital’s

MTA Congestion Toll Revenue Hitting Targets
ALBANY—With the New York State budget now approved, the focus has turned to the mechanisms to advance the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s $68.4 billion 2025-2029 Capital

Attorney’s Column – Court Buries Yet Another Contractor’s Claim In the Graveyard of Lack of Contractual Notice
A downstream contractor has no contractual relationship with a project owner; that relationship is between the general contractor (or, here, the construction manager, Hill) and

Route 17 Expansion Project on Track With Improvements, DOT Tells Forum
CHESTER, NY—The New York State Department of Transportation held a well-attended public open house on May 6 here at the Chester Senior Center to discuss

ARTBA Sees Decline in Worker Fatalities, Injuries on Highway, Bridge Projects
WASHINGTON—The highway and bridge sector is making measured progress in reducing worker deaths and injuries compared to the broader construction industry, according to an analysis

Financial Management – Building Resilience Helps Firms Prepare For Tariffs’ Potential Risks, Uncertainties
Construction companies are now contending with new disruptive forces of shifting trade policies, price volatility and other risks that are the result of new and

NY Sues U.S. DOT for Cutting Funds for EV Charging Plans
NEW YORK—New York Attorney General Letitia James and a coalition of 16 other attorneys general filed a lawsuit on May 5 against the United States

New York City Update – Office-to-Residential Conversions In Midtown Manhattan Heating Up
NEW YORK—New York City is entering a new era of office-to-residential conversions, according to a new report by commercial brokerage firm CBRE. Conversions in Midtown

Westchester to Spend $385M on County Projects, Execs Told at CIC-BCA Membership Meeting
WHITE PLAINS—More than 125 executives with the Hudson Valley’s construction and building trades attended the 2025 spring membership meeting of the Construction Industry Council of

IBM to Invest $150B in Advanced Tech, $30B in R&D in U.S. Over Next 5 Years
ARMONK, NY—To keep up with the Microsofts and Googles of the world, IBM announced plans on Mon., April 28, to invest $150 billion in America

Rockland Housing Forum Tackles High Costs, Explores New Pathways
POMONA, NY—The complex issues facing the residential housing market in Rockland County drew hundreds of major stakeholders on April 25 to develop strategies with goals

Safety Watch – Failure to Keep Trench Edges Clear From Hazards Draws OSHA Citation
The perils of cave-in or trench collapses are well-documented in this Safety Watch series, given the large number of workers who have died from such

What’s New & Who’s News
New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez joined dozens of colleagues on May 1 to celebrate retiring Hudson Valley DOT Regional Director

NYS Bridge Authority Opens Summer Internship Program
HIGHLAND, NY—The New York State Bridge Authority (NYSBA) Summer Internship is a 12-week, full-time, paid program that offers opportunities for motivated and high-potential individuals interested

NYC Issues RFP for 3 Bronx Sites To Design, Install Solar Development
New York City Economic Development Corporation called today for Request for Proposals (RFP) for roof-mounted or carport-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on three public-leased sites

Skanska Downgrades U.S Construction Outlook
In an earnings call to investors earlier this week, the head of the Swedish-based builder and developer Skanska said that customers in the U.S. have

Speed Cameras on MTA Workzones On Bridges, Tunnels Coming Soon
Speeding through a construction zone on the MTA’s bridges and tunnels will soon mean automatic fines mailed to more drivers with the expansion of a

Coalition Challenges Unlawful Conditions Feds Causing by Transportation Fund Cuts
New York Attorney General Letitia James and 19 other attorneys general yesterday sued the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for unlawfully conditioning billions of dollars

NYS Comptroller: Wall Street Volatility, Fed Funding Cuts Threaten New Budget
State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli offered a major caveat to the FY2026 State Budget

Low Bids – 05/07/2025
Paleen, Northbrook, Grace, Morano Brothers,
Harrison & Burrowes Win NYSDOT Projects

Rockland Housing Forum Tackles High Costs, Explores New Pathways
The complex issues facing the residential housing market in Rockland County drew hundreds of major stakeholders on April 25 to develop strategies to overcome some

Court Buries Contractor’s Claim Over Lack of Contractual Notice
We have written on numerous occasions about how a construction contract is meant to define the relationship between the parties, and that absent a provision

Gov Vows to Fund MTA Capital Plan; Congestion Toll Revenue on Target
The latest word is that the final state budget will include mechanisms to fully fund the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s $68.4 billion 2025-2029 Capital Plan.

White Plains Hospital, Trades Sign PLA on $750M Expansion Project
City and county officials joined White Plains Hospital and Montefiore executives to take part in a groundbreaking ceremony on May 5 for the hospital’s latest

It’s National Apprenticeship Day Today To Spur Careers, Job Advancement
Unions and other groups are celebrating National Apprenticeship Day on April 30, today to highlight the value of apprenticeships that provide real-world experience and career

IBM to Invest $150B in Advanced Tech, $30B in R&D in U.S. Over Next 5 Years
To keep up with the Microsofts and Googles of the world, IBM announced plans on Mon., April 28, to invest $150 billion in America over

Construction Jobsite Injuries Fall to 9-Year Low in NYC in 2024
New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Buildings Commissioner Jimmy Oddo released DOB’s annual New York City Construction Safety Report

ARTBA See Decline in Worker Fatalities, Injuries on Highway, Bridge Projects
The highway and bridge sector is making measured progress in reducing worker deaths and injuries compared to the broader construction industry, according to an analysis

Westchester to Spend $385M on County Projects, Execs Told at CIC-BCA Membership Meeting
More than 125 executives with the Hudson Valley’s construction and building trades attended the 2025 spring membership meeting of the Construction Industry Council.

Congestion Tolls Draws Federal Threats To Cut Highway Funding for NY City, State
In the ongoing battle between the Trump administration, New York State and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority over congestion pricing program in Manhattan, U.S. Transportation Secretary

Landmarks Shine in Orange to Honor State Highway Workers, Promote Safety
As construction season kicks into high gear statewide, New York State is amping up efforts to urge motorists to be more cautions when driving through

Region Secures $25.4M In Grants For Water Infrastructure Projects
New York State officials announced on April 17 that municipalities in Orange and Sullivan counties were granted a total of $25.4 million in funding for

NYS Bridge Authority Posts Record Bridge Traffic on Five Spans in 2024
The New York State Bridge Authority announced on April 15 that it achieved its highest-ever annual traffic volume and revenue in 2024.

Industry Leaders Forecast a Busy 2025 Despite Tariffs, Economic Uncertainty
The 11th annual Hudson Valley Construction Industry Partnership (HVCIP) luncheon at the Glenmere Mansion here on Tues., April 15.

Construction Career Expo Draws 726 Students To Explore Job Opportunities in Skilled Trades
SUFFERN, NY— Hundreds of curious high school students got an inside look at the world of building and construction late last month at the 24th

More Subway Service, Housing Coming To Essex Market Site on Lower East Side
NEW YORK—New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, Metropolitan Transportation Authority, the New York City Economic Development Corporation and Delancey Street Associates announced on April 4 the

New York City Update – Hudson Tunnel Project Spurs $4.5 Billion, 20,200 Jobs in Gross Economic Output
NEW YORK—The Gateway Development Commission commissioned a new economic impact analysis of the first five contracts in active construction on the Hudson Tunnel Project. The

Guest Viewpoint – Route 17 Project Will Improve Safety, Traffic Flow and Lower Our Emissions
The Hudson Valley is growing—in population, tourism and business relocations and expansion—and with growth comes a greater demand for mobility. This isn’t a luxury, it’s

Congestion Tolls Are Here to Stay Until October, Court Timeline Shows
NEW YORK—Court documents filed recently with the federal court in the legal battle between the federal government and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority concerning the controversial

Carpenters, Orange County DA Vow to Fight ‘Pervasive’ Tax Fraud in Construction Industry
GOSHEN, NY—In what was promised as the first in a series of “Tax Fraud Days of Action” events in the Hudson Valley region, members of

Construction Industry, Labor and Safety Advocates Push for Passage of Work Zone Safety Proposals
ALBANY—A host of construction industry, labor, government and safety advocates are pushing for several highway work zone safety programs and initiatives that are now part

Attorney’s Column – Court Reminds Upstream Contractors To Adequately Protect Pass-Through Claims
A downstream contractor has no contractual relationship with a project owner; that relationship is between the general contractor (or, here, the construction manager, Hill) and

Albany Update – Federal Funding Cut for Resiliency Projects Will Slash 325M in State Work: Hochul
ALBANY—New York Gov. Kathy Hochul released a breakdown of how the Trump administration’s cuts to the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program will impact critical

IBEW L.U. 1783 Pension Fund to Receive $46M Federal Rescue
WASHINGTON—Following years of seeking relief for an ailing multiemployer pension plan for union workers, New York’s International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Union 1783

Economic Outlook – Will Tariffs Cause Inflation? It Depends on Pain vs. Gain
Tariffs—long used as a government policy tool to protect domestic industries, generate revenue and influence international trade—also raise the economic concerns that they fuel inflation.

ECCO III Begins Route 17, Exit 122 Upgrade
TOWN OF WALLKILL, NY—The major construction project to upgrade State Route 17’s Exit 122 interchange here in Orange County will reconfigure the roadway to meet

Financial Management – Pros & Cons of Internal Transition For a Contracting Firm’s Succession
Succession planning is a pivotal process for construction business owners that ensures their legacy endures, that wealth is preserved and that their company remains stable.

Thruway Begins $19.4M Project On Two Aging Rockland Bridges
ALBANY—Work has begun in earnest on a $19.4-million New York State Thruway project to rehabilitate two aging bridges on the Thruway in the Village of

Safety Watch – Unsafe Use of Powered Industrial Trucks Result in 100 Fatalities Each Year: US DOL
The use of powered industrial trucks are a significant source of serious and fatal injuries to workers. Violations for the unsafe operation of powered industrial

DeFoe Begins Nearly $87 Million Paving Project on I-95/N.E. Thruway
ALBANY—New York State officials announced on April 7 the start of a $86.7-million pavement improvement project on a nearly five-mile stretch of the New England

Dormitory Authority Plans $150M Youth Detention Facility in Valhalla
The Dormitory Authority of the State of New York issued a request for proposals (RFP) on April 10 to provide construction management services for the

Report: 82,000 Homes in New York Likely Lost to Flooding in 15 Years
With the dual threats of climate change and a lack of housing looming over coastal cities worldwide, a new report last week forecasts that New

NYS Thruway Post Record Revenue in 2024; Truck Traffic Slightly Off on Cuomo Bridge
Buoyed by toll increases that took effect last year, revenue on the New York State Thruway surpassed $1 billion for the first time in the

MTA Unveils $800M Blueprint For Hudson Line Climate Resilience
The MTA announced on April 9 an $800-million initiative to protect the Hudson Line from the effects of climate change through investments that will fortify

Feds Cancelling Resiliency Programs Will Slash 325M in State Work: Hochul
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul released a breakdown yesterday of how the Trump administration’s cuts to the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program will impact

Low Bids
Low Bids 02/09/2025
10 Firms Win NYSDOT Projects In the Hudson Valley Region 8
Sea Breeze, Scape Tech, Fred A. Cook Secure Project Work in

Trump Tariffs to Cause Higher Costs, Projects Delays, Possible Recession
The worldwide fallout from President Trump’s actions to recast worldwide trade relations through tariffs have economists and experts in the construction and building industries expecting

Congestion Tolls Here to Stay Till At Least October: Court
Court documents filed recently with the federal court in the legal battle between the federal government and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority concerning the controversial congestion

DeFoe Begins Nearly $87 Million Paving Project on I-95/N.E. Thruway
New York State officials announced on April 7 the start of a $86.7-million pavement improvement project on a nearly five-mile stretch of the New England

ECCO III Enterprises Completes $66M Bronx Bridge Replacement
New York State officials announced on March 31 the completion of a $66.4-million project that began more than three years ago.

State Budget Extended to April 3 as Pols Wrestle with Massive Federal Funding Cuts
The New York State lawmakers, grappling with bail reform, funding the MTA’s capital plan and predicting the amount and impacts of expected massive cuts in

726 Hudson Valley Youths Learn Job Skills At 24th Annual Construction Career Day
Hundreds of local high school students met with experts in the Building Trades to engage in skill-development activities and to learn more about dozens of

Rockland Launches New Website For Countywide Comprehensive Plan
Rockland County Executive Ed Day announced on March 28 the launch of www.envisionrockland.com, a website dedicated to the Countywide Comprehensive Plan update.

Court Reminds Upstream Contractors To Adequately Protect Pass-Through Claims
A downstream contractor has no contractual relationship with a project owner; that relationship is between the general contractor (or, here, the construction manager, Hill) and

ASCE Report Card: Spending Gap to Fix U.S. Infrastructure Climbs to $3.7 Trillion
The American Society of Civil Engineers released its annual report card on America’s infrastructure last week and gave it a grade of “C.”

Construction Industry, Labor and Safety Advocates Push for Passage of Work Zone Safety Proposals
A host of construction industry, labor, government and safety advocates are pushing for several highway work zone safety programs and initiatives that are now part

H.V. Construction Career Events Staged in Rockland March 27-28
SUFFERN, NY—High school students from across the Hudson Valley will meet with union building trade experts—as part of an introduction to skills-building and technical training

Congestion Pricing Revenue Hits Revenue Targets in February: MTA
NEW YORK—In just two months of operation, the congestion relief program is ticking all the boxes it was designed for: it’s meeting revenue projections and

ECCO III Begins Route 17, Exit 122 Upgrade
TOWN OF WALLKILL, NY—The major construction project to upgrade State Route 17’s Exit 122 interchange here in Orange County will reconfigure the roadway to meet

Thruway Begins $19.4M Project On Two Aging Rockland Bridges
ALBANY—Work has begun in earnest on a $19.4-million New York State Thruway project to rehabilitate two aging bridges on the Thruway in the Village of

IBEW L.U. 1783 Pension Fund to Receive $46M Federal Rescue
WASHINGTON—Following years of seeking relief for an ailing multiemployer pension plan for union workers, New York’s International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Union 1783

State Businesses Urge Lawmakers To Fund MTA’s $68B Capital Plan
ALBANY—New York State’s largest association of business organizations told lawmakers here it is “imperative” for them to fully fund the MTA’s $68.4 billion capital program,

Longtime Congresswoman Nita Lowey Environment, Women’s Rights Champion
Former U.S. Rep. Nita Lowey, who tirelessly served constituents in Westchester, the Bronx and Rockland counties for more than three decades, passed away on March

NYS to Fund $175M in EFC Loans For Kensico-Eastview, Hillview Work
The New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation recently approved $340 million in financial assistance for water infrastructure improvement projects across New York State.

Federal Cuts Put at Risk $2B Inflation Reduction Act Funding
A new report released by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli details New York’s financial impact from the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), including close to

Senate ‘One-House Budget’ Proposal Boosts Transportation Investments
2025-2026 State Budget, State Senate Transportation Committee Chairman Jeremy Cooney (D-Rochester) put into context the road, bridge and mass transit funding proposals of his chamber’s

Do Tariffs Cause Inflation? It Depends on Their Impacts
Tariffs—long used as a government policy tool to protect domestic industries, generate revenue and influence international trade—also raise the economic concerns that they fuel inflation.

Coalition Finds a Partner in Gov. Hochul With Proposal to Add $800M to NYSDOT
ELMSFORD, NY —A coalition led by the Construction Industry Council of Westchester & Hudson Valley and local construction trade unions is demanding state lawmakers allocate

Industry’s Workforce of the Future Poses Opportunities and Threats
NAPLES, FL—With the arrival of the new construction season fast approaching, company executives and union officials from New York’s downstate region convened late last month

New York City Update – Riders Alliance, Sierra Club Look to Join MTA Suit to Save Congestion Pricing
NEW YORK—In the battle to save or scuttle New York City’s congestion pricing, two organizations backing the controversial tolling program have lodged new complaints against

Orange County Gets New FAST NY Grant For Studies at Roseton Power Plant Site
NEWBURGH—New York announced last month that $32.6 million had been awarded to improve seven locations under the Focused Attraction of Shovel-Ready Tracts New York grant

Attorney’s Column – Court Rejects ‘Piggybacking’ Contracts For Public Works, Requiring New Bid
A section of the General Municipal Law requires that with several narrow exceptions, any contract for public work more than $35,000 must be sent out

Albany Update – New York State Senate Advance Bills On Workplace Protections, Wage Theft
ALBANY–A group of New York State lawmakers are advancing legislation that aims to enhance workplace protections and combat wage theft, it was announced this week.

$80M for Climate Resiliency Projects Subject of DEC Webinar on March 12
ALBANY—New York State officials announced on Feb. 26 a total of $80 million in new grant funding will be available to communities across New York

NYS Bridge Authority Begins Hearings On Bear Mountain Bridge Redecking
FORT MONTGOMERY, NY—The New York State Bridge Authority has recently launched the public engagement process on a plan to redeck the storied Bear Mountain Bridge

Financial Management – Industry M&A: What Succession Plan Is Right for Your Business?
For construction firm owners contemplating the future, mergers and acquisitions within the sector represent a strategic succession planning option. An industry M&A can provide immediate

Safety Watch – Rope Lines Must Be Reachable By Workers When Working from Heights
Among the most-cited violations by OSHA following work-site inspections in construction are those related to fall protection failures. Fall protection must be provided to all

What’s New & Who’s News
GOSHEN—Maureen Halahan, a true icon in the economic development field in the Hudson Valley, is retiring in June as the highly affable and effective leader

Poughkeepsie, Nyack, Dobbs Ferry To Share $19M in Development Grants
New York State officials announced on Tuesday that the City of Poughkeepsie will receive $10 million in funding as the Mid-Hudson winner of the eighth

Fordham U. Receives $100M Gift To Build STEM Facility in Bronx
Fordham University announced last week a $100-million gift to fuel a major investment in the future of STEM education

More New Yorkers Want to Keep Congestion Tolling, Sienna Poll Finds
A larger percentage of NYC residents want congestion pricing to stay, sending a message to the Trump administration that his treat to remove the tolls

Worker Misclassification Bill Passes NY State Senate
Legislation protecting workers who are misclassified by their employers recently passed in the State Senate by a unanimous 61-0.

7-Year Campaign on GWB Replaces All 592 Original Suspender Ropes
The Port Authority of NY & NJ announced last week it had completed a seven-year effort to replace all 592 original suspender ropes on the

Court Rejects ‘Piggybacking’ Contracts For Public Works, Requiring New Bid
A section of the General Municipal Law requires that with several narrow exceptions, any contract for public work more than $35,000 must be sent out

Orange County Gets New FAST NY Grant For Studies at Roseton Power Plant Site
New York announced last month that $32.6 million had been awarded to improve seven locations under the Focused Attraction of Shovel-Ready Tracts New York grant

House Panel Hears Call for Work Safety, Buy America from Transportation Coalition
WASHINGTON—The 2021 federal infrastructure funding law was a much-needed course correction after years of status quo investment, but delivering the surface transportation network our nation

$80M for Climate Resiliency Projects Subject of DEC Webinar on March 12
New York State officials announced on Feb. 26 a total of $80 million in new grant funding will be available to communities across New York

Gov. Hochul’s Call to Add $800M to Budget Will Help Fix our Bad Roads and Bridges
$250M Needed for DOT Local Roads CHIPS Program

Gov. Hochul Draws Praise for Boosting NYSDOT Capital Plan by $800M in FY26
A coalition led by the Construction Industry Council of Westchester & Hudson Valley, local union leaders and elected officials is calling on all state lawmakers

Tutor Perini JV Signing Contract For $3.7B Manhattan Jail Project
Tutor Perini Corporation recently announced that the Tutor Perini-O&G Joint Venture is in the process of executing contract documents for the previously announced Manhattan Jail

Need More DEC Oversight of Dams To Protect Public Safety: Comptroller
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation should improve oversight and enforcement of compliance with the state’s dam safety regulations to guard against potential

Congestion Relief Plan Toll Revenues Beat Expectations, Ridership Goals
Metropolitan Transportation Authority reported that the congestion relief plan through tolling is raising revenues above its earlier projections

NYPA Pays $30M for New HQ At Downtown White Plains Site
The New York Power Authority took another major step forward when it paid a likely record of $30 million earlier this month to acquire a

DiNapoli Sees Shortfall for MTA In Proposed Executive Budget
ALBANY—In his annual report released on Feb. 14 that assessed the proposed 2026 Executive Budget, New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli noted a key

Comptroller Cites Risks, Concerns With Gov. Hochul’s Budget Plan
Gov. Kathy Hochul’s proposed budget is now getting the fine-tooth comb analysis from New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. On Feb. 14, he identified the

Tariffs: How Construction Contractors Can Prepare for Pricing Uncertainty Ahead
Here’s a new oxymoron worth jotting down. Certain Uncertainty. In the case of looming tariffs ahead—this could occur as early as March.

Forecast 2025 – Robust Pipeline of Highway, Bridgework, Sewer, Energy, Transit to Power Sectors, Trades Report
TARRYTOWN, NY– Despite economic and political uncertainties of the past two months caused by pronouncements and actions in Washington, regional construction officials are steadfast in

Gov. Adds $800M to Budget to Fill Capital Program Gap
ALBANY—It took more than four years of urging from a committed and well-prepared triumvirate of construction executives, organized labor and regional elected officials to finally

MTA Capital Plan Would Spur $106 Billion For State Economy, $6.1B for Hudson Valley
NEW YORK—The MTA Capital Plan for 2025-2029 will generate $106 billion in economic activity and more than 70,000 jobs statewide according to a new analysis

Cost of Congestion, Rough Roads to a Metro Area Motorist $3,492 Annually
NEW YORK—Roads and bridges that are deteriorated, congested or lack some desirable safety features cost New York motorists a total of $38 billion statewide annually—$3,492

Congestion Pricing Program Post Early Advances: MTA
NEW YORK—The congestion zone pricing program is gaining supporters as it removes vehicles, improves travel time and creates new capacity on city roads. Initial signs

Appeals Court Rejects Trump’s Attempt To Stop Federal Funding Freeze Order
NEW YORK – Following the initial court victory for New York Attorney General Letitia James and a coalition of 22 attorneys general—who successfully halted implementation

Attorney’s Column – Triggering Event for Shortened Limitations Period Must Be Unequivocal: Court
There are many ways to manage the contractual risks associated with a construction project. One of these ways is to include a contractual provision shortening

Rockland Housing Program Awards $13.5M For Four Action Loan Opportunity Projects
NEW CITY—Four Housing Action Loan Opportunity (HALO) Awards and projects involving up to $13.5 million in loans, were announced on Jan. 31.

Commercial Real Estate is Banking on 2025
WHITE PLAINS, NY–To understand the commercial market in 2025, it’s good to know its modern history. In the 1970 and 1980s it grew and grew

Economic Outlook – $30 Trillion Debt and Annual Deficit Will Force Hard Choices for Budget Cutters
The federal budget is a critical tool for governing the United States, outlining how taxpayer money is allocated to support a variety of government functions.

New York City Update – NYCDEP Invested $165M in H.V., Serving Half the State Population for Drinking Water
NEW YORK—The New York City Department of Environmental Protection announced recently the completion of payments of $165 million in local village, town, city, county and

Gateway Development Commission Awards $1.8 Billion Manhattan Tunnel Project to JV
NEW YORK—The Gateway Development Commission (GDC) Board of Commissioners awarded on Feb. 3 the contract for the Manhattan Tunnel Project to Frontier-Kemper-Tutor-Perini JV and authorized

ConEd’s Plan for $21M Upgrades Draws Gov.’s Criticism, Calls for Utility Audit
NEW YORK—Con Edison has proposed a massive $21-billion investment to maintain and upgrade its infrastructure in New York City and Westchester County to the New

Albany Update – Doing Business with NYSDOT
ALBANY—New York State Department of Transportation sent a notice earlier this month regarding upcoming revisions to its “Standard Specifications and Bidder Requirements” that are effective

Safety Watch – Bad Trenching Tipoff to OSHA Leads To Call for Hazardous Material Training
Various materials are used in construction activities, including those deemed hazardous to human health. Therefore, companies must ensure that they have an adequate and updated

New Housing Development Surge Not Spiking School Enrollments: Study
WHITE PLAINS, NY–A newly released report on the new multifamily housing development boom and its impacts on communities in Westchester County refutes the long-standing premise

Financial Management – A Keyway to Succeed at Succession is by Laying the Proper Groundwork
For many construction firm owners, the right transition isn’t just about choosing the right exit strategy or succession plan, it’s about ensuring the business is

What’s New & Who’s News
WASHINGTON—The U.S. Senate voted 77-22 Tuesday to confirm Sean Duffy to head the Department of Transportation. Democrats who previously expressed support for Mr. Duffy voted

Jenkins Wins Special Election
Democrat Ken Jenkins easily defeated Republican Christine Sculti to serve out the remaining year of George Latimer’s term as Westchester County Executive in a Special

Congestion Pricing Program Post Early Advances: MTA
The congestion zone pricing program is gaining supporters as it removes vehicles, improves travel time and creates new capacity on city roads.

EFC Offers $18 Million in Grants
The application period is open for the Green Innovation Grant and Wastewater Infrastructure Engineering Planning Grant program, it was announced by New York State Environmental

MTA 2025-2029 Capital Plan
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority has announced it will host the fifth in a series of Open Houses on the 2025–2029 Capital Plan at the White

PLAs Under Review: USDOD Shifts Policy, Will Not Use PLAs in Contracts over $35M
Following a federal claims court judge ruling in January that the policy of collective bargaining agreements with labor organizations violated the “Competition in Contracting Act”

Rockland County Unveils $13.5 Million in Housing Action Loan Opportunity Awards
Rockland County Executive Ed Day, alongside the Office of Community Development, County Legislators, award recipients, municipal leaders, and more, officially announced the four Housing Action

Con Edison Proposes $21-Billion Multi-Year Infrastructure Investment Plan to State PSC
Con Edison, in conjunction with a rate hike request, has proposed a massive $21-billion investment to maintain and upgrade its infrastructure in New York City

Two New Yorkers Take Lead Roles at EPA
A former New York Congressman from Long Island and a former State Senator from the Hudson Valley are taking lead roles at the U.S. Environmental

Coalition of 22 Attorneys General Hail Court Victories Stopping Fed. Funding Freeze
New York Attorney General Letitia James and a coalition of 22 attorneys general celebrated winning a court order halting the implementation of a Trump administration

Price Tag Statewide is $38 Billion
Report: Congestion, Rough Roads Cost NYC Metro Area Motorists $3,500 Per Year

Massive Federal Budget Cuts Take Time Due to Difficult, Hard Choices
The federal budget is a critical tool for governing the United States, outlining how taxpayer money is allocated to support a variety of government functions.

State Gaming Facility Location Board Names Phillips, Reimers as Members
ALBANY—As a number of prospective casino projects in the downstate region wind their way through the municipal approval process as they prepare to file formal

Senate Confirms Sean Duffy As U.S. Transportation Secretary
WASHINGTON—The U.S. Senate voted 77-22 Tuesday to confirm Sean Duffy to head the Department of Transportation. Democrats who previously expressed support for Mr. Duffy voted

Student Enrollment Doesn’t Spike Due to New Housing Boom: Study
WHITE PLAINS, NY–A newly released report on the new multifamily housing development boom and its impacts on communities in Westchester County refutes the long-standing premise

A Fully Funded MTA Capital Plan Invests $6.1B into H.V.’s Economy
NEW YORK—The MTA Capital Plan for 2025-2029 will generate $106 billion in economic activity and more than 70,000 jobs statewide, according to a new analysis

Low Bids News Jan 29
Low bid news
– NYSDOT Welcomes In 2025 With 10 Bid Awards in H.V. / NYC
– Joe Lombardo, Mace, Moy, Wind River

Strange Bedfellows: NJ Gov. Murphy, Trump Intersect on Congestion Pricing
Following the failed attempts in federal courts by New Jersey to stop New York’s congestion pricing program, Gov. Phil Murphy is now appealing to the

5 GOP House Members Could Doom Trump Tax Bill Over SALT Reform
New legislation with bipartisan support in the Congress was introduced on Jan. 23 that would eliminate the SALT Cap marriage penalty. At a press conference

Longtime Transit Exec. Tom Prendergast To Head Gateway Hudson Tunnel Project
NEW YORK—The Gateway Development Commission announced it had appointed Thomas “Tom” Prendergast as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The announcement was made following its Board meeting

Low Bids News
Low bid news
El Sol Contracting, Roadwork Ahead,
DeAngelo Win NYSDOT Contract Work

The CIC Applauds Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Proposed Boost to Transportation Funding
The Construction Industry Council of Westchester & Hudson Valley applauds Gov. Kathy Hochul’s proposal to boost by more than $1 billion in additional transportation resources

Gov. Adds $800M for Highways, Bridges to Upcoming FY26 Budget
ALBANY—Heeding the prolonged and fervent calls from construction industry advocates to address the erosion to purchasing power caused by four years of punishing inflation, Gov.

MGM Empire City Casino Proposal Draws Raves at Yonkers Hearing
YONKERS—Of the many casino projects vying for a full casino gaming license from the New York State Gaming Commission, MGM Resorts here in Westchester went

With Congestion Tolls Underway, State Officials Now Face Massive MTA Capital Program Deficit
NEW YORK—Will the new revenues streaming from congestion tolling infuse public coffers with enough money to fill the budget deficit in the MTA’s capital program—estimated

Gov.’s State-of-the-State Address Promotes Rail, Climate, Housing, Childcare Funding Goals
ALBANY—In advance of her 2025 State of the State address on Jan. 14, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced a series of funding initiatives geared

Commentary – Invest in Clean Water Infrastructure For the Health and Sustainability of Our Communities
Sen. Pete Harckham – I have been fighting for increased investments in New York’s roadway and clean water infrastructure since taking office in the State

FHWA Earmarks $32M to Advance Use of Low Carbon Materials
ALBANY—The New York State Department of Transportation has received a $32-million grant to advance the use of low carbon materials in construction
projects.

Environmental Facilities Board Approves $428M For Local Water, Sewer Infrastructure Projects
ALBANY—The Environmental Facilities Corporation Board of Directors recently approved more than $428 million in financial assistance for water infrastructure improvement projects across New York State.

Attorney’s Column – Court: A License Is a Prerequisite To Recovering Contract Monies
The case of Electrical Contracting Solutions Corp. v Trump Village Section 4 Inc., reported here last June reminded contractors that, where a license is required

Major Investment in Hudson Valley Rail Service Part of Gov. Hochul’s 2025 State of the State
ALBANY—Funding for a major transportation program designed to increase rail service capacity, reduce delays, improve safety and cut potential travel times in the Hudson Valley

MGM Resorts Reaches $5 Billion Milestone In Funds Generated for Education in NYS
YONKERS—For nearly two decades, Empire City has served as a major economic engine for Westchester, the surrounding area and all of New York State. Empire

Safety Watch – Winter Months Can Challenge Safety Mechanisms On Work Vehicles, Warranting Greater Attention
Many motor vehicles, including those in the construction industry, are equipped with rear-view cameras, but older vehicles in use may not have them. The perils

Making a Career of it
Over the past four decades, Mike Popp has channeled the suffering and despair he personally experienced as a young man into the hope and recovery

New York City Update – New York City Selects Team for Long-Awaited Redevelopment of Storied Kingsbridge Armory
NEW YORK—Following many failed attempts to reimagine the 108-year-old facility, New York City announced on Tues., Jan. 7, it had selected the team that will

NYS Enacts $75-Billion Climate Superfund
ALBANY—After the State Legislature passed the measure in June, Gov. Kathy Hochul on Dec. 26 signed legislation aimed at bolstering New York’s efforts to protect

US DOL Finalizes PPE Proper Fit Rule To Protect Site Workers from Hazards
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor announced recently that its Occupational Safety and Health Administration had finalized a revision to the personal protective equipment
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DIGGING INTO THE OPPORTUNITY
A $2.2 billion project backed by private funding, with land secured and labor partnerships already in place, Empire City Casino’s proposed expansion is an economic development boon for the region – and an unprecedented job creation opportunity for our industry.
The shovel-ready project unlocks 10,000 construction jobs, includes 2,000 direct hires, and generates thousands of indirect and induced jobs.
With a long-standing history of being a union-friendly employer, Empire City Casino’s growth is the job creation event we’ve been waiting for.

THE TIMELINE


WHY IT MATTERS
As the largest private employer in Yonkers, a longtime supporter of organized labor (current workforce is 80% union) and a strong contributor to our schools ($5 million to date), Empire City plays a critical role in the region’s economy. Without a full casino license, its long-term viability would be compromised amidst increased competition from nearby casinos. Yonkers leading economic development engine needs our support.
