Patrick Williams

Vice President | Northeast Director, Passero Associates

Years in current role: 1 as VP (21 total)

Where do you see the most untapped potential for development in the Rochester region?

Rochester’s greatest untapped potential lies in reimagining underutilized commercial corridors, aging industrial properties and waterfront assets into mixed-use districts that blend housing, employment, recreation and community services. We also have a major opportunity to align development with our universities, healthcare systems and advanced manufacturing base. Rochester has the talent, infrastructure and quality of life to compete nationally — we simply need continued investment that connects people, neighborhoods and opportunity in a coordinated way.

What’s one challenge in today’s market that keeps you up at night?

The biggest challenge is balancing growth with predictability. Demand remains strong, but projects are increasingly impacted by cost escalation, labor shortages, permitting timelines and financing uncertainty. Great ideas can stall when too many variables move at once. As an industry, we need to keep improving communication, planning and collaboration early in the process so projects remain feasible and communities continue to benefit from investment.

How do you approach decision-making when facing uncertainty on a project?

I focus on facts, risk and momentum. Uncertainty is part of every project, so the key is identifying what is known, what is assumed and what decisions cannot wait. I believe in bringing the right people to the table early, evaluating options honestly and making timely decisions with the best available information. Perfect certainty rarely exists — progress comes from disciplined judgment, transparency and the willingness to adjust when new information emerges.

Are there innovations you’ve adopted that have significantly improved efficiency or outcomes?

Technology has created meaningful gains in how we plan and deliver projects. Data-driven project management tools, better coordination platforms, and emerging AI applications are helping teams spend less time on administrative tasks and more time solving problems. We’re also seeing stronger outcomes through integrated multidisciplinary collaboration earlier in design. Innovation is most valuable when it improves communication, reduces rework and allows professionals to focus on higher-value thinking.

If you could collaborate on any project in the region, what would it be?

A transformational project centered on downtown Rochester and the Genesee River corridor would be exciting — something that combines housing, public space, mobility and economic development while celebrating the city’s history. Just as important, it should expand access to everyday essentials such as grocery options, dining, services and neighborhood amenities that make urban living convenient and attractive. Rochester has unique natural and urban assets that can anchor the next generation of growth. Projects that strengthen connectivity between downtown, neighborhoods and employers can create long-term value far beyond the site itself.

This profile is part of Rochester Business Journal’s Power List for Construction & Real Estate for 2026. Information used in this profile was sourced from the honoree.