Empire State Development Blog

View Public NoticeAmended General Project PlanPublic Hearing Instructions

Expanded Location in the Town of Perinton Will Result in Creation of More than 20 New Jobs Investment Complements “Finger Lakes Forward” – The Region’s Comprehensive Strategy to Revitalize Communities and Grow the Economy Empire State Development (ESD) today joined TOPTICA and other local officials to celebrate the official grand opening of the photonics company’s new, expanded location in the Town of Perinton in Monroe County. In an effort to continue to grow its forward-thinking operations, the photonics company renovated 30,000 square-feet of space at the location on Pittsford-Victor Road. The new facility features manufacturing labs, warehouse storage, business offices and three ISO Class 7 clean rooms. As a result of the expansion, the company has committed to creating up to 22 new jobs over the next five years; 32 jobs will be retained. Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “As an established OPI industry hub, the Finger Lakes region offers leading optics, photonics and imaging companies the skilled workforce and innovation economy they need to grow in New York State. TOPTICA Photonics’ latest expansion builds on the region’s continued leadership as an epicenter for advancement in this high-tech industry.”  Originally founded in Germany in 1998, TOPTICA Photonics has been developing and manufacturing high-end laser systems for scientific and industrial applications for more than 20 years. Its portfolio includes diode lasers, ultrafast fiber lasers, terahertz systems and frequency combs. The systems are used for demanding applications in biophotonics, industrial metrology and quantum technology. TOPTICA also provides all wavelength coverage of diode lasers and provides high-power lasers even at exotic wavelengths. “TOPTICA is thrilled to announce our new, expanded location in Perinton, NY,” said Mark A. Tolbert. “We are thankful for the support from New York State, Monroe County, and local entities that will allow us to continue our world class laser manufacturing operation in a facility that accommodates the demanding requirements of advanced photonic manufacturing and research and development. We are committed to continued growth and are positioned to achieve that in this new facility.” ESD is assisting the company with its expansion project by providing up to $ 1 million through the performance-based Excelsior Jobs Tax Credit Program in exchange for job creation commitments and through a $400,000 Capital Grant. The total cost of the expansion project has been placed at a little more than $2.67 million. Monroe County and Greater Rochester Enterprise also assisted with the project. The event also featured the presentation of Optica’s Advocate of Optics Award to Congressman Joe Morelle. This award is presented annually to an outstanding public official from any country who demonstrates leadership and support for the advancement of optics and photonics. Morelle was recognized for his advocacy for the industry. “Congratulations to TOPTICA on their expansion and ensuring our region has a key role in the innovation of emerging laser system technology,” said Congressman Morelle. “Already, advances in this field are driving innovation and this new facility will allow for the increased manufacturing capabilities necessary to make our region a global leader in optics and photonics. I am very honored to receive their Advocate of Optics Award and look forward to seeing what the future holds.” The Finger Lakes region continues to build on its reputation as a global leader in the optics. photonics and imaging industries. The Rochester area is not only home to TOPTICA Photonics, but to the University of Rochester’s Institute of Optics, the Rochester Institute of Technology and to over 100 local optics, photonics and imaging companies. With the workforce, technology base and support network in place, the region is cementing itself as the global industry leader, driving economic growth in the region for generations to come as it continues to move forward. State Assemblymember Jen Lunsford, said, "The Finger Lakes’ role in producing cutting edge photonics technology is known world-wide. TOPTICA’S expansion in Perinton only further cements our region as the global leader in OPI.  This is a perfect example of the power of public private partnerships to bring good jobs in high growth industries to our community. Congratulations to TOPTICA on this exciting expansion!" Monroe County Executive Adam Bello, said, “Monroe County is an ideal place for high-tech businesses like TOPTICA Photonics to grow and flourish: we have a highly-skilled workforce and a growing reputation as a dynamic hub for cutting-edge technology and innovation. I’m proud of the support for this project from the County of Monroe Industrial Development Agency and thank Empire State Development and Gov. Kathy Hochul for their investments in our local economy. I look forward TOPTICA’s continued success and contributions to our region’s economy.” Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce President and CEO and Finger Lakes Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chair Bob Duffy, said, "Congratulations to TOPTICA Photonics on the grand opening of their new headquarters in Monroe County! This expansion not only showcases their forward-thinking operations and commitment to growth, but also reveals them as one of Rochester's best-kept secrets. With their technology present in nearly every university research lab in the U.S. and the private sector, TOPTICA Photonics has established itself as a leading force in the field. We extend our gratitude to TOPTICA CEO Mark Tolbert, Governor Kathy Hochul, Monroe County, and all the supporters who made this project possible. Greater Rochester Chamber celebrates TOPTICA's success and looks forward to supporting their continued impact on our local economy." Matt Hurlbutt, President and CEO, Greater Rochester Enterprise, said, “Congratulations to TOPTICA Photonics on the grand opening of its new, expanded location in the Greater Rochester, NY region. As the world leader in optics, photonics, and imaging, Rochester has the fully integrated supply chain, talent, and expertise to support TOPTICA Photonics’ world class laser manufacturing operation.” Accelerating Finger Lakes Forward  Today’s announcement complements “Finger Lakes Forward,” the region’s comprehensive strategy to generate robust economic growth and community development. The regionally designed plan focuses on investing in key industries including photonics, agriculture‎ and food production, and advanced manufacturing. More information is available here. ​ About Empire State Development Empire State Development (ESD) is New York’s chief economic development agency (www.esd.ny.gov). The mission of ESD is to promote a vigorous and growing economy, encourage the creation of new job and economic opportunities, increase revenues to the State and its municipalities, and achieve stable and diversified local economies. Through the use of loans, grants, tax credits and other forms of financial assistance, ESD strives to enhance private business investment and growth to spur job creation and support prosperous communities across New York State. ESD is also the primary administrative agency overseeing the Regional Economic Development Councils and the marketing of “I LOVE NEW YORK,” the State’s iconic tourism brand. For more information on Regional Councils and Empire State Development, visit www.regionalcouncils.ny.gov and www.esd.ny.gov. Contact: Shari Voorhees-Vincent | [email protected] | (585) 399-7055 Press Office | [email protected] | (800) 260-7313

Center Will Enhance Visitor Experience and Showcase Buffalo’s Proud African American History Empire State Development (ESD) today announced the opening of the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor’s (MSAAHC’s) new headquarters and visitor center.  The MSAAHC is a nationally and internationally recognized Buffalo neighborhood that serves as the focal point for residents and visitors to learn about Buffalo’s rich African American history and its significant impact on local, national, and international history. Establishing a home for the not-for-profit MSAAHC Commission in the Corridor at 136 Broadway—a key objective of the Corridor’s Strategic Plan completed in 2022—will make it easy for people to navigate the various historic sites in the corridor and participate in a variety of events and activities. “The new visitors center and headquarters provides a convenient, comprehensive gateway for guests and residents to experience the wide variety of sites and activities in the African American Heritage Corridor,” said Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight. “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State is a proud partner in the collaborative effort to elevate this treasured heritage destination in Buffalo, and we encourage visitors to reflect on, learn from, and honor the past as they tour and enjoy all the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor has to offer.” New York State provided a $2.3 million grant for acquisition of the 20,433 square foot mixed-use building, which contains two commercial storefronts, three upper floor apartments and an adjoining parking lot. The building will include offices and workspace for Commission staff, a visitor center, public restrooms, and a small pop-up gift shop. The apartments and a commercial tenant will remain in the building to provide on-going revenue toward building upkeep and Commission operations. The parking lot will serve the headquarters and will also facilitate hosting events and activities of the corridor’s anchor institutions and Corridor-wide events, including a weekly farmers’ market, food truck events, small concerts, and fundraising activities. A mural highlighting Black history is also planned to be commissioned on the east side wall of the building, which faces Michigan Avenue. Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor Commission’s (MSAAHCC) Executive Director Terry Alford said, “Buffalo has fought hard to hold on to and preserve its Black historical sites. Walking in the steps of those who traveled the Underground Railroad, rallied for freedom in the African American churches, and played their hearts out at the Colored Musicians Club is an experience that is critical to telling the full story of Buffalo. I thank Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for supporting us in making sure everyone has the opportunity to experience our unique historic and cultural sites.” The MSAAHC includes four historic anchor institutions—the Michigan Street Baptist Church, the J. Edward Nash House Museum, the Colored Musicians Club, and the WUFO Black History Collective—that tell the stories of a neighborhood that became the heart of the African American experience in Buffalo. It’s an American story of advocacy, freedom, and creativity. The time periods celebrated by assets in the Heritage Corridor include the Abolitionist movement, the Civil Rights movement, and several cultural and artistic renaissance periods. Its festivals, cultural events and artistic programming draw residents, national and international tourists, scholars and artists, writers, storytellers, poets, dancers, and actors to a thriving, community of historic urban scale. Lillie Wiley-Upshaw, Chair of the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor Commission Board, said, “There’s more to come!  We ask the community to watch the growth as we continue to develop a heritage experience for Buffalo residents and national visitors.”  Governor Hochul recently announced nearly $10 million in investments and grant awards as part of the state’s ongoing efforts to address the needs of the East Buffalo community. The announcement, which follows the $50 million targeted investment announced in June 2022,  includes expansion of the homeowner improvement program, additional mental health services, and development of a memorial for victims of the white supremacist terror attack at Tops Supermarket.  In addition, also in June 2020, the Governor announced a “Regional Revitalization Partnership” with local philanthropic organizations and municipalities in East Buffalo, Niagara Falls and Rochester.  Under this partnership, a combined $30 million ($24 million New York State and $6 million philanthropic/municipal) will be invested over the next five years in the MSAAHC to support capital improvements to realize components of the Corridor Strategic Plan and to facilitate ongoing operations of the Commission to advance its mission. Senator Tim Kennedy said, “Under Terry Alford's leadership, the MSAAHCC has played a key role in amplifying African American voices, milestones, and landmarks within our city's history, and this new headquarters and visitor center will deservedly elevate that mission in perpetuity. I’m thrilled to see this important space open its doors to our community, and look forward to continuing to collaborate with the Commission on its meaningful work.” Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes said, “Congratulations to the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor Commission on its new home. This is the culmination of a vision that I had twenty years ago with establishing the Corridor as a state heritage area for African American cultural tourism. Our history is our nation’s shared history - from arts and culture to advocating for human rights. It’s taken awhile to get here, but you can begin to see the fruit of everyone’s labor with a number of construction projects underway at anchor institutions. The Corridor Commission’s new home will allow for better internal coordination, along with a well-deserved and proper home base for staff, tours and visitors. Thank you to all of our philanthropic partners, especially Governor Hochul and Empire State Development, for acknowledging its significance and making this all possible.” Mayor Byron W. Brown said, “The Michigan Avenue corridor is home to several historic institutions – like the Michigan Street Baptist Church, Nash House, the Colored Musicians Club and WUFO. The new visitors center and headquarters for the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor will help bring information about these institutions together under one roof. This will be an important stop for tourists - local, national, and international - when visiting the city of Buffalo. The new visitor center is just one of the many positive developments taking place in East Buffalo and throughout our City. I want to thank the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor Commission for all their hard work. I would also like to thank Governor Kathy Hochul for her continued support and investment in our community.” Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz said, “Erie County is proud to support the historic institutions that make up Buffalo’s African American Heritage Corridor and I thank Governor Hochul and NYS for this investment, which will serve as a vibrant hub for the community and a starting point for anyone interested in learning more about our area’s rich African American history.” Congressman Brian Higgins said, “The Michigan Street Corridor played an important role in Buffalo and American history.  This new visitor center is the latest in the Buffalo-Niagara region’s continuing effort to grow tourism and the economy by sharing the stories that are uniquely ours.” About the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor Commission The Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor Commission’s focus is to integrate the African American cultural significance and impact on Buffalo and American history through public engagement and community education that encourage cultural appreciation, preservation, and community development. Learn More: www.michiganstreetbuffalo.org About Empire State Development Empire State Development (ESD) is New York’s chief economic development agency (www.esd.ny.gov). The mission of ESD is to promote a vigorous and growing economy, encourage the creation of new job and economic opportunities, increase revenues to the State and its municipalities, and achieve stable and diversified local economies. Through the use of loans, grants, tax credits and other forms of financial assistance, ESD strives to enhance private business investment and growth to spur job creation and support prosperous communities across New York State. ESD is also the primary administrative agency overseeing the Regional Economic Development Councils and the marketing of “I LOVE NEW YORK,” the State’s iconic tourism brand. For more information on Regional Councils and Empire State Development, visit www.regionalcouncils.ny.gov and www.esd.ny.gov. Contact: Pamm Lent | [email protected] | (716) 846-8309 Jennifer Parker | [email protected] | (716) 866-4916

Beginning on June 6, State Representatives Will Stop in Utica, Troy, Buffalo, and Rochester to Highlight State Programs and Services to Help Small Businesses Succeed Part of Governor's Ongoing Commitment to Supporting New York's Small Business Community Businesses Can Register to Attend Here    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of a new small business outreach effort, led by the New York State Department of Labor, to help connect entrepreneurs to no-cost supports and services. As part of the Governor's continued commitment to these vital economic contributors, representatives from the New York State Department of Labor, Departments of State and Tax and Finance, the Workers' Compensation Board, and Empire State Development will traverse the state to provide important information to small business owners on licensing, regulations, taxes, grants, training, and more. "Small businesses are the core of New York's economy - creating local jobs, reenergizing neighborhoods, and bringing communities together," Governor Hochul said. "We are excited to bring no-cost resources directly to small businesses across the state to ensure they get the support they deserve." New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, "Our small businesses are the heartbeat of communities and play a vital role in our economy. The New York State Department of Labor offers a variety of no-cost resources that can help small businesses remain competitive in the global market. I encourage entrepreneurs to attend one of these sessions to learn more about how New York State can help you be successful."  The tour features stops in Utica, Troy, Rochester, and Buffalo, and is part of New York State's effort to advance, support, and strengthen smaller operations that continue to have a significant economic impact in their local communities.   Read the full press release here.