building housing
for new yorkers in need.
CentralBuild is your trusted partner in full-service general contracting. We deliver new construction and rehabilitation across market-rate and affordable multifamily housing throughout New York, with deep expertise in supporting affordable and supportive housing communities.
General Contractors in New York since 1999 we have succeeded across hundreds of challenging projects throughout the New York metropolitan area, collaborating with the industry’s best construction managers, architects, engineers, property managers, and building owners.
As material technology has changed dramatically, restoration of older buildings presents significant challenges and requires a tailored approach. Over the last 25 years we have dedicated ourselves to growing with the industry, leveraging the latest materials and methods.
Whether we’re breaking ground on a new development or breathing new life into a century-old landmark, we bring the same expertise and standard of craft to every project.
We are experts in combining deep knowledge of original construction with modern technology.
We work closely with architects, engineers, property managers, and building owners to deliver new build and restoration projects that are completed safely, on time, and within budget. From the first site assessment to the final inspection, we take full ownership of every phase of the work.
With the capability to acquire sites and perform pre-construction work with non-for-profits, we have to ability to assist our clients in bringing housing to New Yorkers.
We bring a collaborative approach to every project: clear communication, diligent planning, and a genuine sense of responsibility for the outcome. The buildings we restore look and perform better than they have in years, and our clients can count on us to get them there without surprises.
Our approach is based on three core principals: integrity, quality, and accountability.
Our services span the full lifecycle of a building, from ground-up new construction to comprehensive exterior restoration. Whether we’re breaking ground on a new development or breathing new life into a century-old landmark, we bring the same expertise and standard of craft to every project.
Older buildings in particular require a custom approach. No two are the same, and the right solution depends on understanding the building’s original construction, its current condition, and the materials best suited to make it last another hundred years.
We are built on the expertise and dedication of leaders that have spent decades working in New York City construction. Together, we bring the engineering knowledge, operational experience, and hands-on commitment that every project demands.
Jon Cruickshanks, PE
Director of Construction and Principal
Jon, a NYS Licensed Professional Engineer with 20 years of experience in affordable housing construction, is a vital asset to the CentralBuild team. After graduating from The Cooper Union with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, he went on to manage the construction of major buildings for one of the top affordable housing general contractors in New York City. Jon leveraged technical expertise and strong management skills to ensure each project was completed successfully. Jon now brings this extensive knowledge and experience to CentralBuild, where he leads the team in constructing housing for New Yorkers in need.
Michael Difonzo
Principal and Managing Partner
With decades of experience running a successful restoration company, Michael brings a wealth of operational knowledge to CentralBuild. Holding a degree in Accounting and Business Management from St. Johns, he has furthered his technical expertise by earning his Special Riggers License and Site Safety Manager’s License, among others. A dynamic individual with many interests, Michael thrives on building and restoring. His passion for athletic endurance sports, particularly as a triathlete, fuels the boundless energy he dedicates to raising a family and actively participating in business while continuing to drive CentralBuild’s vision.
organizations we work with
United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
NYC Fire Department (FDNY)
Friends of the Upper East Side Historic Districts
International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI)
New York Landmarks Conservancy
NYC Department of Buildings
NYC Department of Transportation (DOT)
NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission
OSHA
New York City Special Riggers Association
managers, engineers, architects
The same standards that earn the trust of New York City’s leading public agencies carry over into every private engagement. We work closely with property managers, engineers, and architects across the city.
"The work was performed in a professional manner, in full compliance with approved plans, and delivered on time. We would highly recommend CentralBuild in the future."