Annual Report 2006

The Road Ahead

Susan L. Hayes, Building Congress Vice Chairman and President/CEO of Cauldwell Wingate Company noted, “It is now time to lock in funding streams for a series of critical projects by identifying dedicated sources of revenue. Recent passage of the Transportation Bond Act was important but not sufficient to fund the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s capital program, for example.”

“The State Legislature and Governor must now find other sources, such as dedicated taxes or user fees, to ensure that investments in transportation, education, energy and other vital infrastructure are fully funded and predictable over the long-term,” she added.

All the ingredients are in place for a sustained period of growth,” said Building Congress President Anderson. “ The economy is strong and getting stronger. Thanks to a range of quality-of-life initiatives, New York is gaining popularity among young professionals as well as families. A host of public and private sector leaders have demonstrated exceptional vision for our future. What we need now is the consensus and resolve to take bold ideas and make them a reality.”

Governor George E. Pataki aptly summarized the great achievements and daunting challenges we face, during his 12th and final State of the State address in January: We’ve accomplished much together, but we all know that where the well-being, prosperity and freedom of New Yorkers are concerned, no amount of progress is ever enough. Together, we have overcome some of the most daunting challenges imaginable – we've dared to persevere, to transcend, to thrive in the face of adversity. But every triumph is a gateway to another trial – there are plenty of challenges that still lie ahead. And together, if we continue to aim high, to keep our sights fixed on all the future can hold, we can achieve even greater things for the people of New York.”