New York City's efforts to improve its educational system took the spotlight in Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s State of the City address earlier today, but job creation and a slew of construction projects planned or under way were also mentioned. The mayor, who spoke at Morris High School in the Bronx, praised the city’s 2011 accomplishments and set a broad list of goals in several areas including plans to streamline the building inspection process.
"We've already opened an online hub for reviewing and approving digital construction plans," Bloomberg said, referring to the Dept. of Buildings' recently launched NYC Development Hub. "Now, we're teaming up with the industry to form the Partnership to Build NYC, and together, we'll strengthen safety and reduce waiting times for building inspections citywide. Our goal is ten days or less." He also said the city will streamline City Planning’s review of land use applications.