Lina Khan has been appointed chair of the New York City Economic Development Board by Mayor Zohran Mamdani, marking a pivotal shift in the city’s economic strategy. The former FTC chair brings her antitrust expertise to the role, aiming to foster affordable and resilient urban growth.
New Leadership at the Economic Development Corporation
Alongside Khan’s appointment, longtime city official Tony Shorris returns to public service as head of the city’s Economic Development Corporation (EDC). Shorris, a partner at McKinsey & Co., first joined New York government in 1979 and will oversee the EDC’s massive portfolio of over 60 million square feet of property and $6 billion in active construction projects.
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Khan’s Vision for the EDC
At a press conference, Khan described her new role as a “deep honor” and emphasized the need for “maximally resourceful and innovative” leadership. She plans to use the agency’s full toolkit to deliver an economy that is affordable, efficient, and resilient. Her focus on antitrust and antimonopoly enforcement from her FTC tenure is expected to shape the EDC’s approach to fostering competition in New York’s development projects.
Comparison of Key Appointments
| Role | Appointee | Background | Key Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chair, Economic Development Board | Lina Khan | Former FTC Chair, Yale Law, Columbia Law Professor | Oversee board strategy, ensure affordability and resilience |
| President, Economic Development Corporation | Tony Shorris | McKinsey Partner, 40+ years NYC government experience | Manage $6bn portfolio, lead active construction projects |
Key Takeaways
- Lina Khan brings antitrust expertise to New York's economic development.
- Tony Shorris returns to public service after decades in private sector.
- The EDC manages over 60 million sq ft of property and $6 billion in projects.
- These appointments signal a shift toward innovation and affordability.
- Mayor Mamdani’s vision focuses on resourceful, values-driven governance.
Implications for Business and Development
With Khan’s focus on competition and Shorris’s operational experience, the EDC is poised to reshape New York’s economic landscape. Developers and businesses can expect a renewed emphasis on affordable housing, infrastructure, and sustainable growth. The combined leadership could streamline project approvals and prioritize long-term resilience over short-term gains.
FAQ
What is the role of the NYC Economic Development Board?
The board provides strategic oversight for the city’s economic development initiatives, guiding policy and major projects to foster growth and equity.
How does Lina Khan’s FTC experience apply to this role?
Khan’s antitrust background helps ensure that development contracts promote competition, prevent monopolistic practices, and benefit small businesses and residents.
What projects will Tony Shorris oversee as EDC president?
Shorris will manage the EDC’s capital division, which runs roughly 100 active projects worth $6 billion, including infrastructure, real estate, and urban redevelopment.
These appointments represent a major step in Mayor Mamdani’s effort to build an economy that works for all New Yorkers. With proven leaders in place, the city is set to accelerate its development agenda while keeping affordability and innovation at the forefront.