Work on the planned $1 billion Jacob Javits Center expansion could begin by the end of the year, according to Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
Contractors can now submit proposals to build a three-story utility building that will house electrical generators for the convention center, among other things. The Cuomo administration expects to pick a proposal in the fourth quarter of 2016.
“The Javits Center is one of the Empire State’s most powerful economic engines and these actions move forward our ambitious plan to revitalize this world-renowned facility,” Cuomo said, according to the New York Daily News.
In June, the administration had narrowed its list of potential contractors with design-build capabilities to redevelop the entire complex down to three firms: a team led by Skanska, one led by Gilbane Building Company and one led by Lend Lease and Turner Construction. Another bidder, Tishman Construction, was barred from competing for the project because it currently serves as project manager on the site.
The governor has repeatedly stressed that the 1.2-million-square-foot Javits Center expansion requires a project labor agreement with union workers. [NYDN] — Konrad Putzier