Stalled New York City Construction Sites Could Become Safer

New York City developers may soon be able to renew building permits at stalled construction sites for up to four years, as long as they agree to safety monitoring and inspections while the projects are stalled.

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and city legislators unveiled a bill on Thursday that would create a program allowing participating builders to quickly get back underway when projects are re-started and not have to reapply for permits.

Supporters of the bill say that such empty, boarded up sites often pose safety hazards.

Bloomberg says that the legislation will encourage builders to dramatically increase safety and to expedite projects when capital becomes available.

Dozens of sites were idled after the recession ended the city’s construction boom, wiping out jobs and cutting off funding.