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July 17, 2007
MaryAnne Gilmartin: Hard hat, tough skin
Crain's NY Business
Reporter Erik Engquist profiles Forest City exec MaryAnne Gilmartin, who was promoted to fill Jim Stuckey's shoes after the ex-Atlantic Yards Group President was inexplicably terminated:
For her next trick, Ms. Gilmartin will attempt a project that is five times as large and far more controversial: Atlantic Yards. Last month, Forest City Chief Executive Bruce Ratner tapped his No. 3 to lead the $4 billion development, which includes an arena, a 511-foot tower--both designed by Frank Gehry--and 15 other buildings over an active rail yard in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn.
No hesitation
Asked if she was chosen because Atlantic Yards and the Times building are similar--risky finances, celebrity architects and use of eminent domain--Ms. Gilmartin says, "I think I'm the most qualified person for the job."
Atlantic Yards, which faces several lawsuits, will be a severe test. Ms. Gilmartin must line up financing, build the arena in two years and the entire project in 10, achieve LEED environmental certification, lure tenants and home buyers, relocate the rail yard and honor a community benefits agreement--all under the relentless scrutiny of Atlantic Yard foes.
"I'm ready for it," she says. "I'm not afraid of anything."
Posted by lumi at July 17, 2007 10:26 AM