There are few issues that can polarize the construction industry like project labor agreements do.
On their face, there seems little with which to argue — attractive wages set as a baseline, guaranteed worker benefits, a designated union representative to deal with labor disputes and, for the owner, a steady stream of skilled labor.
PLAs are tools that mandate a well-trained union workforce, which increases the safety and efficiency of a project, said Gary LaBarbera, president of the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York. PLAs, he said, often result in projects being completed on time and under budget and can help individuals develop a career that allows them to better provide for their families.
