Paterson Adopts Historic Project Labor Agreement to Boost Local Jobs and Workforce Development

PATERSON, NJ - Paterson officially adopted a Project Labor Agreement (PLA) ordinance aimed at regulating all public works construction projects exceeding $5 million. The announcement was made by Mayor Andre Sayegh in collaboration with local labor union leaders.

The PLA is designed to ensure that contracts for public construction projects are awarded in a manner that encourages competition while maintaining rigorous standards of safety, quality, and workforce development. Importantly, the ordinance mandates the inclusion of apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs, thereby enhancing career opportunities for local residents and fostering community hiring.

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“Paterson has achieved something historic, particularly in our rich labor history," Sayegh said. "I’m thrilled to see this initiative finally come to fruition.”

During the announcement, several speakers highlighted Paterson's rich labor history. They noted the city’s past, including the impactful silk strike of 1913, which played a pivotal role in advocating for workers' rights. Union leaders expressed enthusiasm about the new agreement, emphasizing its potential to create pathways for young residents to enter the workforce with fair wages and benefits.

Brian Jackson, president of the Passaic County Building & Construction Trades Council , spoke about the importance of the PLA.

“ Today marks a historic moment for Paterson as we establish a Project Labor Agreement between the city and the trades,” he said. "I want to extend my gratitude to the city council, especially the mayor and the DPW staff, for their support. As someone who grew up in Alabama and coached various youth sports in this city, this agreement is particularly meaningful to me. It will create new opportunities for residents who have been working in the city and county for years. I’m filled with confidence as we embark on this journey and look forward to breaking ground on our first project under this agreement.”

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“This Project Labor Agreement is the most efficient way to invest in projects in Paterson, ensuring they are completed on time and well,” Tom Kelly, Business Agent for IBEW 827 and President of the Passaic County Central Labor Council said. "It opens doors for our youth to secure good careers with fair wages and benefits. Paterson has a rich labor history, with milestones like the eight-hour workday and five-day workweek. We’re committed to working together—labor, educators, and city officials—to create more opportunities for everyone in our community. This is just the beginning, and I truly appreciate this monumental moment as we strive to make Paterson a better place for all.”

The adoption of the PLA received strong support from the city council, achieving an unanimous vote.

“ I recall how members of the union presented the Project Labor Agreement to the Finance Committee and later to the DPW committee,” Council President Alex Mendez said. "I witnessed firsthand the tremendous value this agreement brings to our city. It means better-paying jobs, new career opportunities, and training for our community and our children, all contributing to an improved quality of life for families. By working together, we will make impactful decisions that benefit the state of New Jersey and continue to advance progress in Paterson.”

Plans for future projects utilizing the PLA are already in the works, officials said, including the Alexander Hamilton Visitor Center at the Great Falls, which is expected to be 100% union labor and aims to break ground in spring 2025.

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