Op-ed | Shoddy construction work is nothing new in New York City

A buckling of support columns in Midtown New York City highlighted ongoing issues with shoddy construction practices and inadequate safety protocols. A prior incident at 219 East 42nd St. involved a worker injured by falling debris, leading to a Department of Buildings (DOB) stop work order, which was later lifted despite unresolved safety violations. The DOB's fines are often dismissed as minor costs on large projects, perpetuating a cycle of neglect.