Their worries are understandable, but the city can proceed with the program and also find ways to accommodate some of the unions' concerns.

Washington said the city could proceed only if the program was phased in and Washington kept control of the process.

And even then, the city proceeded with maximum circumspection.

Then the city could have proceeded immediately with individual projects, unless zoning changes were needed.

"We have consistently said that the city should proceed with caution and prudence in this area."

Noting that the city was proceeding with its jail construction plans, he added, "We are hopeful."

The city then proceeded to make way for a shipping port as part of an inner harbor design.

In fact, senior officials indicated yesterday that the city would probably proceed at its previously planned pace through next summer.

But the city proceeded with the resolution approving the $2.75 million sale.

In that environment both city and state government proceeded to place a heavier share of taxes on commercial property.