For Immediate Release
May 3, 2006

Commissioner Patricia J. Lancaster, FAIA Unveils Department of Buildings 2006-2009 Strategic Plan

Commissioner Patricia J. Lancaster today unveiled the Department of Buildings 2006-2009 Strategic Plan, the second phase of her blueprint for transforming the agency into an accountable, efficient and effective municipal building organization. The 2006-2009 Strategic Plan reviews the achievements of the past term and lays out the roadmap for the next four years to come. In just four years, the agency has:

Invested in Staff - Provided Employees with the Technology and Training They Need

• Upgraded employees' computers and network service
• Gave plumbing inspectors handheld computers
• Formed a training academy (Buildings University)

Set Standards for Integrity, Transparency and Accountability

• Formed partnership with the Department of Investigation
• Adopted zero tolerance policy towards corrupt activities
• Created agency's first ever Code of Conduct
• Instituted mandatory integrity training

Improved Customer Service - Making it Easier for Constituents and Customers

• Put customer service desks in every borough
• Developed and published a customer brochure series
• Put the Buildings Information System on the Web (now taking 380,000 pg. hits/day)
• Introduced eFiling for electrical applications
• Cut steps to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy by 50%
• Created a 24/7 Plan Exam Appointment System

The 2006-2009 Strategic Plan builds upon the groundwork the Commissioner and her team set for a new era in agency performance and accountability.

"When I came to the Department of Buildings in April 2002, the agency was in desperate need of attention and guidance. There were 250 vacancies out of a staff of 800. Computers crashed on a daily basis. Yet the one resource I did have was invaluable - the expertise, energy and the enthusiasm of the staff. Our inspectors, architects, engineers and experts knew how to fix the Buildings Department. They just needed someone to champion the reform," said Commissioner Lancaster.

Going forward, the 2006-2009 Strategic Plan continues the path of reform begun in 2002 and builds upon the gained transparency, accountability and efficiency with the following strategic areas of focus:

Facilitate Compliant Construction and Ensure Safety

• Adopt the Model Code - Bring New York City up to international standards
• Reconstruct the Plan Examination Process - Improve efficiency and productivity
• Institute a Focused Zoning Compliance Program - Focus on at-risk areas
• Develop Inspection Quality Assurance Plan for Controlled Inspections - Institute tighter controls

Build and Maintain a Modern IT Architecture

• Scan & Image Documents Received - No more lost files
• Automate Inspections - Give inspectors handheld computers for same day results
• Implement a Business Intelligence System - Improve performance measurement tools
• Enable Electronic Application Filing (eFiling) - Accept applications via the Internet

Continue to Foster Integrity & Professional Development

• Spotlight on Integrity - Continue to enhance programs to encourage ethical behavior and integrity
• Improve and Widely Distribute the Code of Conduct - Reinforce the standards our employees are held to
• Continue to "Professionalize" the Agency - Improve and expand training programs
• Focus on Recruitment & Retention - Enhance recruitment and career development strategies

Download a copy of the  2006 - 2009 Strategic Plan (2,746 kb-pdf), and view pictures from Strategic Planning Retreat at Gracie Mansion.

Contact: Ilyse Fink/Jennifer Givner (212) 566-3473

The New York City Department of Buildings ensures the safe and lawful use of buildings and properties by enforcing the Building Code and Zoning Resolution. We facilitate compliant development with integrity, efficiency and professionalism.