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Build Faster, Build Better: Why New York Needs Less Red Tape

New York, USASunday, February 15, 2026
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The state of New York faces a housing crunch and growing needs for parks, schools, and clean water.

A long‑time builder group says the governor’s “Let Them Build” plan can help.

They argue that rules meant to protect the environment are too strict for many projects.
The law called SEQRA asks every new build to show it won’t hurt nature, even if data say it won’t.
This process can take months or years and costs hundreds of thousands of dollars.

The Pain Points

  • Architects craft designs that fit zoning laws and community wishes.
  • Engineers calculate costs and feasibility.
  • Builders need steady jobs to pay rent and keep families fed.

When a project is small, on land that was already used, or clearly safe for the environment, it should skip the long review.
That would let people get new homes and services faster.

Why the Plan Matters

The group says the governor’s plan is smart because it targets just those kinds of projects, not every single one.
They want to keep the environment safe while speeding up construction that already shows no harm.

The Workforce Perspective

The workers who build New York are ready for more work.
They need the same housing and jobs that every resident needs.

Letting them build is a win for everyone.

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