BOSTON—Sperry Van Ness, in conjunction with the recent launch of its new brand name "SVN," is accelerating its global growth plans in 2016, president and CEO Kevin Maggiacomo tells Globest.com.

NEW YORK CITY—A 10-member affordable housing coalition is urging Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the State Legislature to increase its funding of affordable housing in New York State.

BOSTON—Chief officials with the City of Boston were joined by representatives of five nearby cities on Wednesday to announce the formation of a compact charged with addressing regional problems that affect economic development and business growth.

NEW YORK CITY—A survey conducted by Cushman & Wakefield finds that Manhattan's chief retail districts boast a "United Nations" of merchants representing 26 countries across the globe.

NEW YORK CITY—The firm has signed a sprawling 25-year lease at 787 Eleventh Ave. for a new showroom and service facilities for several of its dealerships.

BOSTON—Tishman Speyer has increased its presence in the Seaport District with the acquisition of the newly constructed One Channel Center office building and adjacent parking garage.

NEW YORK CITY—After undertaking an extensive study of the area's office market, the Teacher's Retirement System of the City of New York found it liked 55 Water St. just fine.

BOSTON—Newly hired director of real estate for the Boston Redevelopment Authority Edward O'Donnell says he plans to hit the ground running once he takes over his post on Jan. 4th.