May 2nd - May 6th, 2011

New York is Still a No. 1 Target

May 2 – Despite the killing of Osama bin Laden in a raid in Pakistan, Police Commissioner Ray Kelly says, “New York remains the No. 1 target for terrorists,” reported WNYC. Kelly also said the number of global spots where a terrorism attack could be launched has increased and will not necessarily originate from outside the U.S., as last year’s attempted Times Square bombing. In the 10 years since the September 11 attacks, the NYPD has committed major resources to its counter-terrorism efforts.

Falling Remains Most Common Construction Site Accident

May 2 – The Department of Buildings recently launched a new multi-lingual campaign, entitle “Experience Is Not Enough.” The program promotes education on fall protection, as it represents 42% of all reported accidents in 2010. Since 2008, 16 construction workers have died due to the lack of basic fall protection, reported Real Estate Weekly. “Experience alone does not make you invincible,” says Buildings Commissioner Robert LiMandri.

Downtown Birthrate Remains Constant

May 3 – A study issued by Community Board 1 through analyzing Department of Health records, indicates first births remained constant between 2002 and 2008, reported the Tribeca Trib. Based on the trend community leaders have expressed concern about the near future overcrowding of the downtown schools.

Doubts Remain Around New WTC Towers

May 3 -- As the redevelopment of the WTC is underway, it is unclear whether approximately 11 million square feet of office space will ever be replaced. While two towers are currently under construction the completion date of two others is undetermined, reported the Wall Street Journal. Much of the problem comes from financing. However, progress is continuing on much of the site including the basement levels of the two towers in question.

Horse Stables May Become Police Command

May 3 – The NYPD may convert horse stables at the 1^st Precinct in Lower Manhattan into a new station for the World Trade Center police command, reported the Wall Street Journal. There will eventually be 673 officers serving at the new post. The current occupants of the stable would be moved to other police stables throughout city.

More Tourists Expected as 9/11 Approaches

May 4 – As the 10^th anniversary of September 11, 2001 recent numbers show thousands more tourists are already visiting Lower Manhattan. A Downtown Alliance reported cited 875,000 tourists visiting attractions below Chambers Street, which is a 45% increase over the same period in 2010.

Crowd Disapproves of Proposed Rent Hikes

May 4 – The decision of the NYC Rent Guidelines Board to vote five-to-four to boost rents by three to 5.75 percent for one-year apartment leases and between six and nice percent for two-year leases was met with verbal opposition from those in attendance, reported DNAinfo. The final increase will be decided in late June after a series of public hearings. Those representing the landlords argue for the increase citing higher operating costs including the higher cost of fuel oil.

President Obama Pays Respects at WTC Memorial

May 5 –  President Barack Obama laid a wreath Thursday at the WTC site paying respects to the nearly 3,000 killed in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, reported the Wall Street Journal. The president also met privately with family members, firefighters and police officers. The visit was the first for Mr. Obama since becoming president.