The Tappan Zee Bridge Project Labor Agreement: A Comprehensive Overview
The Tappan Zee Bridge, which spans the Hudson River between Tarrytown and Nyack, New York, was in need of replacement due to its advanced age and deteriorating condition. To accomplish this, the Tappan Zee Constructors (TZC) was formed, a consortium of five construction firms that was awarded the contract for the design and construction of the new bridge, which is known as the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge. This $3.98 billion project was completed in 2018, and it was the largest bridge project in the United States since the Golden Gate Bridge was completed in 1937.
One of the key components of the Tappan Zee Bridge project was the use of a Project Labor Agreement (PLA). A PLA is a pre-hire agreement that is negotiated between a project owner or contractor and a labor union or unions. The agreement sets forth the terms and conditions of employment for all workers who will be involved in the project, regardless of whether or not they are members of the union(s) involved. A PLA typically covers issues such as wages, benefits, hours of work, and working conditions.
In the case of the Tappan Zee Bridge project, the PLA was negotiated between TZC and the Building and Construction Trades Council of Westchester and Putnam Counties, Inc. (BCTC). The agreement covered all of the construction work associated with the project, including the demolition of the existing bridge and the construction of the new one.
The key benefits of using a PLA for a project of this size and complexity are numerous. First and foremost, a PLA helps to ensure labor peace on the job site. By establishing clear terms and conditions of employment up front, the likelihood of labor disputes, strikes, or other disruptions is greatly reduced. Additionally, a PLA can help to ensure that skilled and experienced workers are employed on the project. This is because the agreement typically requires that contractors use the local skilled workforce, many of whom are union members, which helps to ensure that the work is done safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards.
Another benefit of a PLA is that it can help to control costs by establishing clear and predictable labor expenses. By negotiating an agreement that sets wages, benefits, and working conditions for all workers in advance, contractors can more accurately estimate their labor costs, which can help to prevent cost overruns or other unexpected expenses.
Finally, the use of a PLA can help to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the local community. By requiring contractors to use local labor, the agreement helps to ensure that the economic benefits of the project are spread throughout the community, rather than being exported to other areas.
In conclusion, the use of a Project Labor Agreement was a key component of the Tappan Zee Bridge replacement project. By negotiating a clear and comprehensive agreement with the local labor union, the consortium of contractors was able to ensure labor peace, control costs, and create jobs in the local community. As a result, the project was completed on time and within budget, and the new bridge is now a critical part of the region`s transportation infrastructure.