Conflict and Cooperation in Large-Scale Infrastructure Projects

Today, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is a multi-state and multi-jurisdictional body that operates and manages the development of one of the largest seaports in the world. Before the Port Authority was established a century ago, however, the Port of New York was governed not by a single body, but rather was planned, constructed, and operated within a twisting labyrinth of jurisdictional power and control over the land, water, and shipping industries. The result was that by the end of the First World War, administrative confusion and jurisdictional conflict had brought port development, and the shipping industry itself, to a virtual standstill. Seeking to end this gridlock, officials from across governments and jurisdictions began the process of creating the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, an institution that remains in place today.

On October 28, IMFG Post-Doctoral Fellow Nick Lombardo presented on New York’s experience and drew lessons for how different levels of government can cooperate – or not – to provide large-scale infrastructure in cities today.