Melanie La Rocca Is New Head of NYC's Dept. of Buildings
Melanie La Rocca, who has been an executive at the NYC School Construction Authority since January 2014, is New York City's new Commissioner of the Dept. of Buildings. PHOTO COURTESY OF MELANIE LA ROCCA
A New York City School Construction Authority vice president is the new commissioner of the city's Dept. of Buildings, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced May 6.
Melanie La Rocca, currently SCA's vice president of development and external affairs, has been named to the post three months after her predecessor, Rick Chandler, left the position. She's no stranger to NYC politics, having been the city council's chief of staff from September 2010 through December 2013, according to her LinkedIn profile.
"As a lifelong New Yorker, I understand how the construction industry plays a key role in ensuring New York City adapts to the changing needs of our business and local communities," La Rocca said in a statement announcing her appointment. "I know first-hand what it takes to deliver a high-quality project in a fast-paced environment, and I understand the need to connect with all stakeholders, especially with members of the community."
Others praised de Blasio's selection of La Rocca, who's been with the SCA since January 2014.
"Her years of public service and proven track record at the School Construction Authority and New York City Council will serve DOB, the building industry and all New Yorkers well," said Carlo A. Scissura, president and CEO of the New York Building Congress. "The Building Congress and our members look forward to working with Commissioner La Rocca ... as we continue to experience historic levels of construction and the introduction of new technologies in all aspects of building.”
Such technologies are sure to be part of new buildings and in old buildings' retrofitted HVAC, electrical or other systems, in light of the Green New Deal law that the city passed in April.
La Rocca is expected to begin her new role June 3.
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