NYC signs $7bn in Project Labor Agreements

New York City skyline (Image: Adobe Stock)

The agreement is designed to set fair wages for workers, union benefits and safety standards on a range of city projects, including recreation centers, water treatment facilities and school solar installations.

The new PLAs include community hiring requirements that will channel more job opportunities to New Yorkers, particularly those living in NYCHA housing or in ZIP codes with high poverty levels.

Since the launch of these requirements, nearly 100 city procurements, totaling more than $7.5 billion, have been issued with community hiring goals attached.

The agreements will also expand access to union apprenticeship programmes.

A new memorandum of understanding between the city, BCTC and the Building Trades Employers’ Association will support the recruitment of 700 pre-apprenticeship candidates from low-income communities. 

Mayor Adams said: “If the city is going to build a new library or recreation center, we want to make sure those jobs pay well during the day and get workers home safe at night.

“With more than $7 billion labor agreements, we’ll do both — all while hiring from the local community and completing critical projects faster. That’s a win for everyone involved.”

Mayor’s Office of Talent and Workforce Development Executive Director Doug Lipari added that the agreements ensure that capital projects are delivered efficiently and establish fair wages and working conditions.

He said: “These new PLAs reflect the city’s strong partnership with the Building and Construction Trades Council and solidify the city’s dedication to the future construction workforce through Community Hiring.”