Unveiling the Construction Secrets of Trump Tower: How It Was Built
The construction story behind iconic New York City landmark, Trump Tower, is shrouded in a mix of financial engineering, controversial practices, and complex real estate dealings.
Introduction to Trump Tower's Makeup
Trump Tower, located at 401 Park Avenue, is a 72-story office and condominium skyscraper that has been a symbol of Donald Trump's brand since its completion in 1983. Standing at 1,046 feet (319 metres) tall, the building has been significant not only as an architectural marvel but also for its murky construction practices that have been scrutinized over the years.
Construction Companies and Malfeasance
The construction of Trump Tower was largely carried out by SA Concrete, a company owned by Tony Salerno, a prominent figure in organized crime. Salerno served as the head of the Brooklyn faction of the Genovese crime family. This involvement in criminal activities brought a cloud of suspicion over the entire construction process of the tower.
Reinforced Concrete and Organized Crime
Despite controversies, the tower's construction foundation was indeed built using reinforced concrete. However, the methods and the involvement of organized crime in the process make the story far more complex than simply a construction project. The allegations against Salerno and his conglomerates extend to numerous clients, including the Trump Organization, accusing them of financing criminal activities through business ventures like the building of Trump Tower.
The Trump Connection and Ghost City Development
Donald Trump's association with the construction company was evident in a project he had been involved with, the Ghost City in Atlantic City. This project, which involved the construction of hotels and casinos, was marked by allegations of fraud and illegal activities. Roy Cohen, Trump's business partner, was behind the organization known as Trumpf arrangement, which facilitated the construction of these structures for Trump. This shady arrangement lasted for eight years, involving the construction of various luxury hotels and casinos in Atlantic City.
Financial Shenanigans and Contractors
Trump's construction team, under scrutiny by the U.S. Attorney's Office, is known to have cheated contractors, workers, and suppliers. The core of the issue is the poor payment practices which suggest an efficient but unethical approach to construction projects. Allegations suggest that only 10 cents on the dollar were paid for construction, which raised eyebrows among contractors and led to further investigations.
Unlawful Steel and Unlawful Labor
The construction of Trump Tower, as with many of Trump's projects, was marred by the use of illegal materials and labor. It is alleged that steel and labor were sourced in unlawful ways, further muddying the water with respect to the legality and transparency of the project. This practice not only raises questions about the quality of the building but also about the ethical and legal standards of the construction industry.
Funding and Support: A Blend of Legal and Illicit Activities
Beyond the tangible construction, Trump's support for this project came from a mix of legitimate and questionable sources. The involvement of Paul Castellano, head of the Gambino family, and his ties to organized crime, contributed to a web of financial and legal complexity. Trump's bank at the time was also set up to handle and facilitate these kinds of transactions, which, as mentioned, ended with the unfortunate death of Castellano a few years later.
Legacy and Aftermath
Though the construction process was shrouded in controversy, the building itself stands tall and has become a significant part of New York's skyline. The legitimacy and legality of such projects continue to be a subject of debate, bringing to light issues of transparency in the construction industry and the broader implications of business ethics.
Conclusion
The story of Trump Tower's construction is a complex one, touching on numerous issues related to legality, ethics, and the dark side of real estate and construction. It serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of transparency and fairness in these sectors.
Related Keywords
Construction Secrets, Building Methods, Trump Tower