Community Impact

Governor Kathy Hochul with John Kalafatis and Andriana Vamvakas. On May 20, 2026, Andromeda was honored to welcome New York Governor Kathy Hochul to our offices for an important discussion with approximately 40 to 50 industry leaders, partners, and stakeholders. The gathering brought together professionals from the construction and insurance sectors to address some of the most pressing challenges affecting New York’s businesses, workforce, and economy. The growing impact of

This is my second Skylines article on staged accident fraud and the Scaffold Law and how it is hurting New York construction sites. I have been President of Andromeda for nearly two and a half years now, leading the fight against staged accidents on job sites. Before that, I spent over 34 years conducting and directing high scale federal corruption investigations. Being in that world for so long, plus being a certified fraud examiner, has made me a natural skeptic. I need rea

The New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) has announced an important safety upgrade for sidewalk sheds. Under Local Law 47 of 2025 (LL47) , which took effect on August 15, 2025, sidewalk sheds must now meet higher lighting standards to improve pedestrian safety and visibility across the city’s streets. PHOTO: GUY/STOCK.ADOBE.COM According to the new regulation, sidewalk sheds with construction documents submitted on or after August 15, 2025 must provide a minimum illum

Local Law 47 of 2025 (LL47) , effective August 15, 2025, raises the required minimum clear ceiling height for new sidewalk sheds from 8 feet to 12 feet. The change applies to all sidewalk shed construction documents submitted on or after August 15. Existing sheds do not need to be modified. The higher clearance aims to improve visibility, accessibility, and the overall pedestrian experience while maintaining safety during construction and façade work. The law allows flexibili

The NYC Department of Buildings has introduced expanded color options for sidewalk sheds and solid construction or demolition fences under Local Law 47 of 2025 (LL47) , effective August 15, 2025. Previously, these protective structures were required to be hunter green, with limited allowances for white. PHOTO: SPRING SCAFFOLDING Local Law 47 now authorizes three standard colors—hunter green, metallic gray, and white—for all sidewalk sheds and fences. For existing buildings (

With nearly $328,000 raised, the 2025 Annual Golf Classic by The Skyline Charitable Foundation showcases the power of partnership, philanthropy, and perseverance — all under the summer sun. PHOTOS: THANASSI KARAGEORGIOU Clockwise from top left: VFW Post 1819 of Port Washington members perform a rifle salute for the fallen; Golfers watch the ceremony that precedes the tee-off each year; Closest to The Pin winner Rygo Foss, Esq., board member, TSCF with Shana McCormick, executi

Updated guidebook, enhanced landmark maps, and new archaeology database improve access to preservation resources. Image: NYC.GOV On June 27, the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) announced the launch of new and updated resources to help the public more easily access agency information and navigate the permitting process. The updated LPC Permit Guidebook: How to Get Staff-Level Approvals provides step-by-step guidance for submitting complete, accurate applications,

On April 19, 1965, New York City made history when Mayor Robert F. Wagner signed the Landmarks Law—legislation born from the loss of the original Pennsylvania Station and a growing public call to protect the city’s architectural and cultural identity. Sixty years later, that law has grown into one of the most robust municipal preservation programs in the country. New York Mayor Wagner signing the Landmarks Law on April 19,1965. — Photo: The New York Preservation Archive Proje