Developer James P. Stuckey says that building is not just about the structure.
When James P. Stuckey began his real estate career 30 years ago, he did so with a vision of building new skylines and crafting efficient community infrastructures. Over three decades he accomplished this, and more, while keeping in mind that builders build because society needs things. James P. Stuckey has always maintained that his work is not a means to wealth; it is a way to give people the space they need to live their lives. By focusing on projects that positively affect his community, James P. Stuckey has helped catapult New York City into the spotlight as a socially responsible city.
James P. Stuckey says, “We all live somewhere, work someplace, shop, get well in hospitals, spend a day in the park, or travel on infrastructure constructed by a developer.” Keeping this sentiment close to his heart, James P. Stuckey has spearheaded some of the most notable revitalization campaigns in New York’s history.
While heading the Economic Department of New York City, James P. Stuckey created over 100,000 jobs. The projects he sanctioned offered construction workers much needed employment. James P. Stuckey utilized local vendors when possible when purchasing construction materials with which to build. The resulting economic impact of James P. Stuckey’s efforts was the creation of thousands of positions in the retail, industrial and commercial arenas.
In addition to this focus on local commerce, James P. Stuckey assisted the Russian Republic in opening their markets after the fall of the Soviet Union. This helped Russia find a new normal and opened the doors for additional import and export opportunities with the United States, says James P. Stuckey. The Russian Trade and Cultural Center, which was located in the former WTC, is one project that James P. Stuckey recalls with great fondness as it let him work side by side with the first Russian Federation President, Boris Yeltsin (1991-1999) and his administration.
Another major highlight of his career, says James P. Stuckey, is the Atlantic Yards Community Benefit Agreement. This contract with the residents of Brooklyn states the developer’s intent to utilize the project in a way that best serves the community, notes James P. Stuckey. In it, the builders and planners promise to encourage change regarding how projects of this kind are handled. James P. Stuckey points out that the plan emphasizes the use of women and minority construction workers. As well, James P. Stuckey notes that the Atlantic Yards Development Projects establishes benefits for the community such as job training and affordable housing.
While most of his efforts have historically focused on New York City’s boroughs, James P. Stuckey has also made a positive impact in other nations. After helping to rebuild New York after the events of 9/11, James P. Stuckey gained specialized experience in the area of post-catastrophe re-development. This knowledge led him to Haiti, following the devastating January 2010 earthquake. James P. Stuckey helped to create an area of study at the NYU Schack Institute of real Estate, where he was a Divisional Dean. The program focuses on the unique needs of areas that have been hit with tragedy. His work has helped rebuild Haiti and reorganize the master plan of highly populated areas, like Port-Au-Prince, where over-crowdedness fueled chaos after the quake and increased the casualties immensely.
James P. Stuckey has left a legacy of positive change across the country. Without his efforts, many of the most beloved staples of New York may not have come to fruition. His social development projects continue today to encourage commerce among businesses both large and small. For more information about James P. Stuckey, visit www.verdantproperties.com
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