The Lower Manhattan Development Corporation today announced several key staff appointments to better meet the agency’s mandate. Matthew Higgins, Vice President for Communications, was named Chief Operating Officer and Director of Communications, responsible for providing daily oversight to the staff of the LMDC, managing the agency’s operations, and assisting the President in fulfilling the LMDC’s overall mission. Mr. Higgins will continue to oversee the agency’s communications initiatives. Stefan Pryor, currently Deputy to the Chairman, was named Deputy to the Chairman and Chief of Staff. In support of the Chairman and President, Mr. Pryor is responsible for coordinating the agency’s policies and initiatives. Mr. Pryor also serves as the Secretary of the LMDC Board.
 
Andrew Winters, Director of Design & Development, was named Vice President & Director of Planning, Design and Development, responsible for overseeing all of LMDC’s planning and development, particularly all development at the World Trade Center site and adjacent areas. Christopher Glaisek, Director of Urban Planning, was named Vice President for Planning, Design and Development, responsible for overseeing transportation initiatives and off-site planning and development. Irene Chang, Vice President of Legal Affairs, was named Vice President of Legal Affairs and Counsel, responsible for LMDC’s legal policies and addressing the many legal issues that arise during the rebuilding effort.
 
LMDC Interim President Kevin Rampe said, “The LMDC has assembled a talented and dedicated team of individuals to meet the challenges of revitalizing Lower Manhattan. Today’s staff changes will better position the agency to fulfill our mission as we move into this next critical phase of the rebuilding effort – realizing the vision for the World Trade Center site and ensuring the renewal takes hold in all the communities of Lower Manhattan.”
 
The appointments are effective immediately.