As 2024 drew to a close, the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) reported a year of remarkable achievements, reflecting its commitment to enhancing public safety, driving sustainable development, and improving urban life across the city’s 1.1 million buildings and 40,000+ construction sites.
Safer Worksites and Reduced Incidents
DOB recorded its highest number of inspections—416,290—indicating an unprecedented focus on compliance and safety. Worksite-related injuries decreased by over 31%, incidents by 29%, and fatalities by 14%. These outcomes stem from initiatives like mandatory Site Safety Training (SST) for over 430,000 workers, expanded crane operator licensing, and proactive field inspections.
To combat fraud, DOB invalidated 20,000 fake SST cards, introduced the NFC-enabled “Worker Wallet” for tracking certifications, and prosecuted illegal training card issuers.
Advancing Sustainability with Local Law 97
The department took significant steps toward achieving the city's carbon emission reduction goals. Key efforts included implementing Local Law 97, launching the GreenHOUSE fund to decarbonize affordable housing, and preparing for the first compliance reports due in 2025. Collaborations with NYC Accelerator supported building owners in navigating compliance pathways.
Streamlined Services and Modernized Regulations
In 2024, the DOB expanded its licensing system through DOB NOW, integrated NYC.ID for seamless user access, and completed the first NYC Electrical Code update in over a decade. These efforts enhance convenience, improve safety, and align regulations with evolving federal standards.
Improving Urban Aesthetics
The “Get Sheds Down” initiative removed 6,919 sidewalk sheds since July 2023, including 309 long-standing ones. Enhanced enforcement and litigation against non-compliant properties accelerated this process, modernizing pedestrian protection and clearing city streets of obtrusive structures.
Supporting Building Owners
The "Get Summonses Corrected" campaign resolved nearly 10,000 open violations, helping property owners maintain compliance and avoid financial or administrative hurdles.
Innovating for the Future
DOB launched the Innovation Review Board and Buildings Tech Lab to evaluate and adopt cutting-edge construction technologies. These initiatives aim to make NYC a leader in efficiency, resilience, and sustainability within the construction sector.
Looking Ahead
DOB Commissioner Jimmy Oddo emphasized that 2025 will bring “even bolder reforms” to promote safety, innovation, and excellence in code-compliant development, ensuring NYC remains a global model for urban living. 🀰
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