June 13th - June 17th, 2011

ACOEM Releases Lung Function Report

June 13 – The American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine released in their June journal the results of a study of lung function changes in 206 WTC first responders. The results showed ninety-five percent of officers in the NYPD’s Emergency Services Unit show no long-term decrease in lung function. The authors feel their finding have implications for disaster planning and preparedness.

Citigroup Reported to be Exploring Move

June 14 – The third-largest U.S. lender, Citigroup is considering leasing offices at the World Trade Center site, reported Bloomberg. Reportedly, the bank is in the early stages of reviewing its options and is currently headquartered at 399 Park Avenue and occupies another midtown tower.  1 WTC and 4 WTC are scheduled for completion in 2013.

EDC Releases East River Waterfront RFP

June 14 – The New York City Economic Development Corporation issued a Request for Proposals seeking someone to lease and operate the Maritime Pavilion at Pier 15 and the ship docking spaces along the East River. Crain’s New York reports, the selected tenant will manage, program and maintain approximately 550 linear feet of transient boat docking space. The Maritime Pavilion will consist of approximately 1,763 square feet. Responses are due by 4 p.m. on Tuesday, August 9, 2011.

Defense Cites Unforeseen Conditions in Fire Deaths

June 14 – Defense lawyer Edward J.M. Little who represents Jeffrey Melofchik, a site safety manager during the demolition of the Deutsche Bank building, faulted an air-suction system designed to prevent asbestos from escaping the building, reported the New York Times. The defense has argued that the suction system created a smoke chamber and along with a maze of partitions on the buildings floor erected during abatement contributed to the deaths of two firefighters in August of 2007. Prosecutors have argued the defendants knew a portion of the standpipe was cut down, leaving a 42-foot gap in the pipe firefighters needed to provide water during the fire.

Prosecutors Contend Money was Behind Fire at 130 Liberty

June 15 – During a summation at the trial of three supervisors at the Deutsche Bank deconstruction site, prosecutors argued the concern for money over safety was the reason for the deaths of two firefighters. The New York Times reports, prosecutors have argued that the contractors were in a hurry to get the building down and it would have been difficult and time-consuming to scrub the stand pipe free of contaminants.

Lower East Side Skate Park Awarded Renovation Grant

June 15 – The skate park beneath the Manhattan Bridge is receiving a boost after being awarded a grant from the nonprofit Architecture for Humanity, reported DNAinfo. The grant amount and project details have not been finalized.

New Retail Plans Announced for WFC

June 16 – Brookfield Office Properties announced a $250 million retail redevelopment plan for the World Financial Center, reported Benzinga. The changes would expand retail variety including a European-style marketplace, high-end fashion and waterfront dining. Additionally a new glass pavilion would link the Center to the transit hub connector currently under construction.