New York City launches Mass Timber Studio to spur more wood construction

New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) recently launched New York City Mass Timber Studio, “a technical assistance program to support active mass timber development projects in the early phases of project planning and design.”

NYCEDC will award $25,000 grants to select project teams to be used for design, technical, and economic feasibility assessments on mass timber projects. The program aims to raise awareness of mass timber construction’s economic and carbon-reduction benefits and introduce more players in the industry to mass timber construction.

“The Mass Timber Studio will help connect design teams and industry professionals with investment and technical assistance, will spur industry growth, and teach us lessons about how building code and policy can support clean, sustainable construction,” said Victoria Cerullo, an executive in the city’s Climate & Environmental Justice office. “This program advances our PlaNYC goal of reducing the carbon footprint of the construction industry by 50% by 2033, and we are proud to support the architects, designers, and engineers who are working at the forefront of this crucial new sector.”

NYCEDC and the Mayor’s Office for Climate and Environmental Justice will operate the studio. The USDA Forest Service and the Softwood Lumber Board, along with WoodWorks, a non-profit that offers education, resources, and technical assistance on wood construction, the American Institute of Architects New York, and the city’s Department of Buildings will provide support. The studio is expected to begin work next year and operate for about nine months.

New York updated its building code last year to allow mass timber structures up to 85 feet tall, and now aspires to be a national leader in mass timber construction, according to a news release.