Annual Report 1999

A Message from the President and Chairman

More than ever, New York City's rallying cry must be "Building for Growth." A new prosperity coupled with years of deferred maintenance have created substantial strains on New York City's capacity for growth and threatens its ability to meet the demands of the 21st Century economy.

For many generations, the men and women of New York's construction community have demonstrated the inspiration, creativity and determination to build the world's capital city. From the skyscrapers towering above to the complex subway system below, our industry has made New York what it is today.

Being ready, willing and able, however, is not enough to ensure what New York needs to prosper. Our future depends on leadership, commitment and essential infrastructure investment -- on building for growth.

Our industry must be vocal in communicating this message. No one knows better than we do how today's investments benefit tomorrow's economy, nor how lack of building activity limits our future prospects.

Our industry must be proactive. At City Hall, in Albany and Washington, major decisions are made every day affecting New York's future. In 1999 alone, the fate of our public schools and mass transit systems will hinge on new multi-year funding programs.

Our industry must be united. The design, construction and real estate industry collectively employs more than a quarter of a million people and accounts for almost $60 billion of annual output, about twenty percent of the City's economy. Building drives New York's economy more than almost anyone realizes.

Our strength is best realized when we work together. All segments of the construction industry -- including organized labor, contractors, architects, engineers, real estate managers and developers -- achieve more and contribute more when all are on common ground.

Membership involvement and industry cooperation are keys to the success of the Building Congress. Never have participation and collective action been more important to our continued success.