2024 NYNJ Infrastructure Forum Agenda
Future Proofing New York City's Infrastructure
Our region is shaped by systems that New Yorkers rely on, every day. We need to not only maintain a state of good repair but also modernize vulnerable facilities and meet the demands of climate change. Generational investments across our region mean that our collective approach to scaling delivery is more important than ever. New York City’s Chief Infrastructure Officer talks about design thinking for our 21st century public works.
NYC Dept. of Design and Construction: Improving the Process to Deliver Billions in Capital Projects
Responsible for over $33 billion in capital construction, the NYC Department of Design and Construction faces the urgent task of upgrading our city’s aging infrastructure and serving New Yorkers with needed public facilities throughout the five boroughs. DDC First Deputy Commissioner Macfarlane will detail the agency's plans to deliver projects better, faster and cheaper by reforming the capital delivery process in partnership with city and industry partners. Highlights will include DDC’s critical work to build coastal and stormwater resiliency.
Equity in Infrastructure: From Concepts to Contract Awards
This panel will explore programs supporting the engagement of Historically Underutilized Businesses in municipal contracting opportunities, including the various programs at the MTA which has resulted in over $1B in annual contracting for New York State and federally certified firms. The panel also will assess the threat to regional and federal DBE programs from SCOTUS-related decisions in other sectors as well as hearing from an MWDBE consultant who can discuss the value of business-transforming prime contracts in growing the available contractor pool for agency programs.
Gregory A. Jenifer, CEO, Armand Resource Group, Inc
Phillip A. Washington, CEO, Denver International Airport; Co-Chair, the Equity in Infrastructure Project
Lourdes Zapata, Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer, Metropolitan Transportation Authority
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Responding to the Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapse
This presentation will focus on the critical role played by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the response and recovery efforts following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. McTighe will discuss the immediate actions taken to stabilize the situation, the engineering challenges encountered and the strategies implemented to restore the vital federal navigation channel. He will also highlight the importance of partnerships with industry in executing these operations, emphasizing how collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential for successful disaster recovery and helps ensure the resilience of the nation's infrastructure.
New Jersey Dept. of Environmental Protection: Making NJ’s Key Water Infrastructure Climate Resilient
Upgrading New Jersey's aging water infrastructure is essential for public health, sustainability and economic growth. But worsening climate change challenges such as flooding, warming temperatures and rising sea level are causing new impacts that need urgent attention. Join NJ Environmental Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette for an update on priority efforts to build long term resilience into critical infrastructure and development in the state.
Metropolitan Transportation Authority, NY: The Future Rides With Us
MTA C&D is responsible for the maintenance, improvement, and expansion of the $1.5 trillion asset that is the MTA’s transit system. In the midst of creating the MTA’s next 5-year capital plan, the agency is developing hundreds of projects that will keep the region moving for decades to come. MTA C&D President Jamie Torres-Springer will provide an overview of the MTA’s priorities for the next capital plan and how the agency is building capacity to deliver even greater results.
Lunch Roundtables
Optional facilitated conversation tables
Read about each one here.
Decarbonizing Infrastructure: Aggressive Targets, Ambitious Projects
New York and New Jersey both have forward-looking carbon-reduction programs that will lead to more sustainable practices in the design and construction of infrastructure. In New York, the Climate Act calls for reducing carbon emissions 40% by 2030 and 85% by 2050. Last year New Jersey enacted one of the most aggressive but market-driven laws in the U.S. to reduce embodied carbon in construction materials, including concrete. Projects impacted range from transit work to energy to water improvements—in addition to major efforts in the buildings sector. During this panel discussion, learn how these laws and policy changes relate to current and future design and construction.
Zoe Baldwin, Vice President, State Programs, Regional Plan Association
Anthony J. Fiore, Chief Program Officer, New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
Sofia Zuberbuhler-Yafar, Assistant Commissioner for Sustainability & Urban Design, NYC Dept. of Design and Construction
$9B First Phase of JFK’s New Terminal One Sets Soaring Standards
John F. Kennedy International Airport is undergoing an unprecedented $19-billion makeover and upgrade, anchored by The New Terminal One which will be the largest terminal at JFK Airport when complete. Sustainably designed and future-focused, the state-of-the-art terminal will serve as a global gateway to the New York metropolitan area. The project's $9 billion first phase is the largest single-asset project financed in the United States. The world-class New Terminal One will replace the existing Terminal 1 and occupy the footprint of the former Terminal 2, Terminal 3 and the Green Garage, while maintaining the existing AirTrain station on a 133-acre site. Hear from New Terminal One Capital Program Director Palmina Whelan about the ambition of the project and how this unique endeavor is progressing.
The Path to Greater Resilience for New York/New Jersey Bridges
Whether it be natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods or human-made ones either accidental or purposeful, what are we doing to help the region’s bridge infrastructure withstand or recover quickly from extreme events of the future? Hear from experts about not only engineering solutions but also the need to change our mindset about project delivery, streamlining processes, sharing risks appropriately and using life-cycle thinking to bring costs down. Solutions to these challenges will lead to more investment in essential projects and a pipeline of work in the years to come.
Panelists: Rizwan Baig, Chief Engineer, Port Authority of NY and NJ
Jamey Barbas, Project Director, Mario Cuomo Bridge, New York State Thruway Authority | Commissioner, Gateway Development Commission
Maria Lehman, U.S. Infrastructure Market Leader, GHD | Vice Chair, President’s National Infrastructure Advisory Council | President Emeritus, ASCE
Paul Schwartz, Deputy Commissioner, Division of Bridges, NYC Dept. of Transportation
Amtrak: Rebuilding the Northeast Corridor
With a major infusion of funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Amtrak is rebuilding the Northeast Corridor for a new generation of passenger rail. Billions of dollars’ worth of improvements are slated for the New York/New Jersey region including major projects such as East River Tunnel Rehabilitation, Sawtooth Bridges, and others advancing through the project pipeline. Amtrak VP for Infrastructure Project Delivery Jay Sankar will provide an update on these and other major investments that are helping to shape the future of the NEC.
A Portal to the Future of Rail in New York and New Jersey
The $1.7-billion Portal North Bridge, the largest construction project in the history of New Jersey Transit, is a key component of the $33.7-billion Gateway Program that will double rail capacity between Newark, N.J., and New York City. Rich Schaefer, the agency’s Senior Vice President of Capital Programs, will discuss project progress and future opportunities for industry.
The $16B Hudson River Tunnels Program: A Live Critical Path Podcast
In ENR’s first-ever on-stage, live podcast, ENR Deputy Editor for Infrastructure Aileen Cho will chat with the Gateway Program’s Jim Morrison about the challenges of building a new pair of tunnels under the Hudson River—including the long struggle to get there and the opportunities for industry.
Project Presentation:
A Portal to the Future of Rail in New York and New Jersey
The $1.7-billion Portal North Bridge, the largest construction project in the history of New Jersey Transit, is a key component of the $33.7-billion Gateway Program that will double rail capacity between Newark, N.J., and New York City. Rich Schaefer, the agency’s Senior Vice President of Capital Programs, will discuss project progress and future opportunities for industry.
NYC Dept. of Design and Construction: Improving the Process to Deliver Billions in Capital Projects
Responsible for over $33 billion in capital construction, the NYC Department of Design and Construction faces the urgent task of upgrading our city’s aging infrastructure and serving New Yorkers with needed public facilities throughout the five boroughs. DDC First Deputy Commissioner Macfarlane will detail the agency's plans to deliver projects better, faster and cheaper by reforming the capital delivery process in partnership with city and industry partners. Highlights will include DDC’s critical work to build coastal and stormwater resiliency.
$9B First Phase of JFK’s New Terminal One Sets Soaring Standards
John F. Kennedy International Airport is undergoing an unprecedented $19-billion makeover and upgrade, anchored by The New Terminal One which will be the largest terminal at JFK Airport when complete. Sustainably designed and future-focused, the world-class and state-of-the-art terminal will serve as a global gateway to the New York metropolitan area. The project's $9 billion first phase is the largest single-asset project financed in the United States. This monumental effort will replace the existing Terminal 1 and occupy the footprint of the former Terminal 2, Terminal 3 and the Green Garage, while maintaining the existing AirTrain station on a 133-acre site. Hear from New Terminal One Capital Program Director Palmina Whelan about current and future work opportunities and learn how this unique endeavor is being made possible.
Metropolitan Transportation Authority, NYC, The Future Rides With Us
MTA C&D is responsible for the maintenance, improvement, and expansion of the $1.5 trillion asset that is the MTA’s transit system. In the midst of creating the MTA’s next 5-year capital plan, the agency is developing hundreds of projects that will keep the region moving for decades to come. MTA C&D President Jamie Torres-Springer will provide an overview of the MTA’s priorities for the next capital plan and how the agency is building capacity to deliver even greater results.
New Jersey Dept. of Environmental Protection: Making NJ’s Key Water Infrastructure Climate Resilient
Equity in Infrastructure: From Concepts to Contract Awards
Moderator
Panelists
Decarbonizing Infrastructure: Aggressive Targets, Ambitious Projects
New York and New Jersey both have forward-looking carbon-reduction programs that will lead to more sustainable practices in the design and construction of infrastructure. In New York, the Climate Act calls for reducing carbon emissions 40% by 2030 and 85% by 2050. Last year New Jersey enacted one of the most aggressive but market-driven laws in the U.S. to reduce embodied carbon in construction materials, including concrete. Projects impacted range from transit work to energy to water improvements—in addition to major efforts in the buildings sector. During this panel discussion, learn how these laws and policy changes relate to current and future design and construction.
Moderator
Panelists
Transforming Infrastructure: The Power of Artificial Intelligence
Join us for an insightful exploration into the transformative role that artificial intelligence is playing in reshaping infrastructure development. From transportation to energy, water and urban planning, AI is dramatically changing how we conceive, construct and manage critical systems. The discussion will cover the potential of AI to optimize infrastructure performance, enhance decision-making, and foster innovation. Discover how AI-driven algorithms and predictive analytics can boost efficiency and reduce cost while exploring optimal approaches to assess risk mitigation techniques when integrating AI into our methods of working, building, and communicating.
Setting Up Major Programs for Success
To improve the likelihood of success of Major Infrastructure Projects, industry professionals must identify essential strategies for effective program initiation and mobilization. This discussion delves into critical factors influencing success, including aspects of delivery ecosystem, robust governance, effective delivery strategies, and organizational alignment.
Building Faster in NYC using Alternative Project Delivery
Design-build has fundamentally changed NYC Department of Design and Construction’s ability to deliver major new buildings and certain types of infrastructure, fostering collaboration and shaving years off the schedule of a typical project. Explore the benefits, challenges, and opportunities of this project delivery tool and trade lessons learned to help us deliver projects to the public faster.
Climate Transition Risk & Opportunity Strategy
Public infrastructure agencies have an opportunity to identify and strategize for risks stemming from the climate transition – but the time to act is now. Agencies should prioritize building actionable strategies that chart a path forward for sustainability & resilience, while working in close partnership with the broader community of infrastructure service providers.
Contractor Diversity is Key To Meet the Region’s Infrastructure Needs
Join the conversation about the wide range of opportunities in the region for minority and women-owned firms, disadvantaged business enterprises and small businesses to help meet growing infrastructure needs.
Designing and Building Successful Climate Resilience Projects in New Jersey
Join this conversation to gain an update on New Jersey's efforts to bolster its infrastructure resilience, particularly through Rebuild by Design projects and major ongoing coastal protection initiatives launched in response to devastation caused by Hurricane Sandy in 2012. These efforts aim to enhance the state's ability to withstand future climate-related events through innovative design, robust engineering, environmental justice goals and community engagement.
Bridge Resilience in the New York/New Jersey Region
Whether it be natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods or human-made ones either accidental or purposeful, what are we doing to help the region’s bridge infrastructure withstand or recover quickly from extreme events of the future? Hear from experts about not only engineering solutions but also the need to change our mindset about project delivery, streamlining processes, sharing risks appropriately and using life-cycle thinking to bring costs down. Solutions to these challenges will lead to more investment in essential projects and a pipeline of work in the years to come.
Moderator
Panelists
Agency Overview
Amtrak: Rebuilding the Northeast Corridor
With a major infusion of funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Amtrak is rebuilding the Northeast Corridor for a new generation of passenger rail. Billions of dollars’ worth of improvements are slated for the New York/New Jersey region including major projects such as East River Tunnel Rehabilitation, Sawtooth Bridges, and others advancing through the project pipeline. Amtrak VP for Infrastructure Project Delivery Jay Sankar will provide an update on these and other major investments that are helping to shape the future of the NEC.
Speaker
Agency Overview
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Responding to the Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapse
This presentation will focus on the critical role played by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the response and recovery efforts following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. McTighe will discuss the immediate actions taken to stabilize the situation, the engineering challenges encountered and the strategies implemented to restore the vital federal navigation channel. He will also highlight the importance of partnerships with industry in executing these operations, emphasizing how collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential for successful disaster recovery and helps ensure the resilience of the nation's infrastructure.
Speaker
Opening Address
Future-Proofing New York City Infrastructure
Our region is shaped by systems that New Yorkers rely on, every day. We need to not only maintain a state of good repair but also modernize vulnerable facilities and meet the demands of climate change. Generational investments across our region mean that our collective approach to scaling delivery is more important than ever. New York City’s Chief Infrastructure Officer talks about design thinking for our 21st century public works.
Speaker
The $16B Hudson River Tunnels Program: A Live Critical Path Podcast
In ENR’s first-ever on-stage, live podcast, ENR Deputy Editor for Infrastructure Aileen Cho will chat with the Gateway Program’s Jim Morrison about the challenges of building a new pair of tunnels under the Hudson River—including the long struggle to get there and the opportunities for industry.