Empire State Development Blog
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We feature stories of innovative businesses that are making New York their home, plus offer updates on economic activity and development from around the state.
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Press Release
Wednesday, May 3, 2023 - 3:00pm
Extends and Enhances Tax Credits to Support New York's Film, Television, and Performing Arts Sectors
Establishes Technology Innovation Matching Grant Program to Spur Scientific Research, Innovation and Development
Revives New York City Biotech Tax Credit to Build on Governor's Commitment to Growing Life Sciences Sector
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced transformative investments to support New York's business community and boost the state economy as part of the historic FY 2024 Budget. The Budget raises the New York State Film Tax Credit annual cap to $700 million, establishes the new Technology Innovation Matching Grant Program, and revives the New York City Biotech Tax Credit, among other measures, to drive economic growth across New York State and create good jobs.
"The transformative investments secured in this year's budget will help our state continue to attract innovative businesses, open pathways toward jobs and careers of the future, and better support working families to drive the economy forward," Governor Hochul said. "These key initiatives to boost high-growth sectors, grow and retain jobs in film and the performing arts and build a 21st century workforce will accelerate New York's post-pandemic recovery and solidify our standing as the most worker-friendly and business-friendly state in the nation."
Read the full press release here.
Press Release
Friday, April 28, 2023 - 1:03pm
Proven Regional Leaders Melanie Littlejohn and Tim Penix to Helm the Micron Community Engagement Committee as Co-Chairs
Committee will Develop a Community Priorities Document to Guide Strategies in Areas such as Supporting Underrepresented Populations, Workforce Development, Child Care and Housing
Governor Kathy Hochul and Micron Technology, Inc. today announced the members of the Micron Community Engagement Committee, representatives from Central New York and Micron that will support the company’s community investment strategy. The Committee is made up of local stakeholders to ensure meaningful, ground-up participation and discussion of Micron’s implementation and investments in the region, and will also include five ex-officio members. The formation of this group is a critical component of the Community Investment Framework agreement made between New York State and Micron in October 2022.
“Micron’s historic investment in Central New York will bring transformational growth to the region and to our state, and for a project of this magnitude, it is critically important that local residents have a seat at the table,” Governor Hochul said. “The committed educators, advocates, and community leaders who make up the Micron Community Engagement Committee represent the very best of Central New York and will work to ensure that Micron’s investment – including the $500 million Community Investment Fund – meets the needs of this community. I look forward to a continued partnership with Micron, the committee, and all of our local, state, and federal partners as we work to build a global chip-making hub in New York State.”
Micron’s historic planned investment of up to $100 billion over the next 20-plus years to construct a new megafab in Clay, New York, which is expected to help create 50,000 direct and indirect jobs, was made possible by the Governor’s Green CHIPS program and the anticipated federal grants and tax credits from the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act. The Committee will work with Micron, Empire State Development (ESD), local governments and regional stakeholders to develop a Community Priorities Document – a guiding strategy for investing funding allotted in the Micron Community Investment Framework into existing and new opportunities for residents, including specific priorities for underrepresented communities.
Micron President and CEO Sanjay Mehrotra said, "We are delighted to be in Central New York to celebrate with Governor Hochul, the newly appointed members of the Micron Community Engagement Committee and other local partners the remarkable progress that has taken place since we announced the site of our leading-edge memory megafab here six months ago. The $500 million Green CHIPS Community Investment Fund will help build and transform a workforce for the future, and the Micron Community Engagement Committee will ensure that the wide-ranging benefits and opportunities our investments will bring to Central New York are available for all.”
Melanie Littlejohn, Vice President for New York Customer and Community Management at National Grid, and Tim Penix, Vice President of the Syracuse Educational Opportunity Center, have been selected as the committee co-chairs due to their proven public service track records and expertise and will assist in the management of this fund to better the lives of Central New Yorkers. In addition to the co-chairs, the members of the Committee are:
April Arnzen – Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer, Micron
Karen Belcher – Executive Director, Food Bank of Central New York
Donna DeSiato – Superintendent, East Syracuse Minoa School District
Bishop Ronald Dewberry – Senior Pastor, New Life Temple of Praise
Kristi Eck – Chief of Staff, SUNY Oswego
Courtney Geduldig – Corporate Vice President, Global Public and Government Affairs, Micron
Mark Hall – President and CEO, Syracuse Community Health
Jasenko Mondom – Employment Specialist, Refugee Assistance Program at Syracuse City School District
Meg O'Connell – Executive Director, Allyn Family Foundation
Hazel Powless – Haudenosaunne Environmental Task Force, Onondaga Nation
Kerry Quaglia – Founder and CEO, Home HeadQuarters
Sheena Solomon – Executive Director, The Gifford Foundation
Ex Officio Members
Rob Beard – SVP and General Counsel, Micron
Kevin Younis – COO and Executive Deputy Commissioner, Empire State Development
Isabelle Harris - Director of Strategic Initiatives, Onondaga County
Sharon Owens – Deputy Mayor, City of Syracuse
Damian Ulatowski – Supervisor, Town of Clay
The Committee will focus on workforce development and diversity in the labor force; education and training in STEM fields to create opportunities for good paying jobs at Micron and supply-chain partners; expansion of safe and affordable housing; breaking down barriers to the workforce such as child care and transportation and improvements to community assets and institutions that contribute to civic identity and well-being. This will ultimately inform a document that will be used as a road map that allows for participation and/or enhancement beyond the initial objectives of this effort.
The Committee’s work will also complement the newly announced Governor’s Office of Semiconductor Expansion, Management and Integration (GO SEMI), which will be led by ESD and supported by experts from numerous state agencies. The office will work in coordination with federal and local partners and coordinate investments in the semiconductor industry, shaping and implementing a broader, national model for maximizing industry and community returns on such public/private partnerships.
Read the full press release here.
Press Release
Thursday, April 27, 2023 - 4:27pm
$4.5 Million Phase One Includes Construction of the Eugene Sayan Visitor Center and Demolition of Unused Buildings
State Funds Support Transformation of Historic Site for Education and Business Innovation
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the groundbreaking for the $20 million redevelopment of the Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe in Shoreham, Suffolk County. The 16-acre site is a U.S. National Historic Registered landmark and location of famed inventor Nikola Tesla's last existing laboratory. The Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe is envisioned as an international destination for visitors interested in Tesla's legacy and science, technology, and innovation. The project's $4.5 million phase one includes the construction of the Eugene Sayan Visitor Center and the demolition of approximately 110,000 square feet of unused building. Empire State Development is supporting the transformation of the historic site with $1.25 million in capital grants.
"Nikola Tesla's visionary ideas and inventions have served as a catalyst for scientific progress, and his lab stands as a testament to his innovative spirit," Governor Hochul said. "By preserving this historic site, we help ensure that future generations can learn from his achievements and be inspired to pursue groundbreaking discoveries of their own."
"Nikola Tesla's lab is a physical embodiment of the power of imagination and creativity to change the world," said Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado. "It is a living reminder of his contributions to science and technology, and by preserving this site, we can inspire future innovators to dream big and achieve great things."
Nikola Tesla was an inventor and electrical engineer whose life-changing discoveries include the alternating current (AC) power, the Tesla coil, hydroelectric power, the induction motor, and more. The Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe was established to transform Tesla's former lab into a hub that celebrates his innovative spirit and inspires the next generation of innovators. The center will offer tours as well as exhibits and educational programs that explore Tesla's groundbreaking work.
The redevelopment of the Tesla Science Center is a multi-phase project that includes the Eugene Sayan Visitor Center, a museum, science and education center, business accelerator and entrepreneur center, and the rehabilitation and preservation of Tesla's iconic lab. The Eugene Sayan Visitor Center will provide a dedicated space to showcase exhibits about Nikola Tesla's work and innovative approaches. It will offer exhibitions and programs both on-site and online, enabling visitors to discover Tesla's legacy through educational and interactive experiences. When complete, the Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe will be a world-class destination that will provide an immersive experience for visitors of all ages to learn about Nikola Tesla and his discoveries and promote science education to inspire the next generation of inventors, scientists, and engineers.
In addition to funding from ESD, Governor Hochul announced the Tesla Science Center was awarded $1.47 million as part of the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA)'s Small and Mid-Sized Capital Project awards. Those funds will support the stabilization and restoration of Nikola Tesla's last standing laboratory, designed by McKim, Mead, & White.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "Nikola Tesla's legacy serves as a reminder of the power of human ingenuity and the importance of scientific research in solving the challenges of the modern world. The Tesla Science Center will be a destination for visitors to learn of Tesla's inventions while inspiring future innovators to push the boundaries of what is possible."
Empire State Development Board Chairman Kevin Law said, "Redeveloping the Tesla Science Center is an investment in the future of innovation and progress. By preserving and building on Tesla's legacy, we are supporting new generations of entrepreneurs who will continue to drive transformational progress on Long Island and around the globe."
Read the full press release here.
Press Release
Thursday, April 27, 2023 - 1:35pm
Community Loan Fund of the Capital Region will Expand its Commercial Incubator Space for Minority- and Women-Owned Businesses
View Rendering Here
Empire State Development (ESD) today announced the groundbreaking for the Community Loan Fund of the Capital Region’s $4 million Albany Center for Economic Success (ACES) Incubator expansion project. The new facility will be built at 255 Orange Street – adjacent to its existing location – and will feature a co-working space, a room for client training and technical assistance, and a day care center. The project is being supported by an $800,000 ESD capital grant, recommended by the Capital Region Economic Development Council through the REDC initiative.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "At the heart of this project is a mission to provide vital services to small business owners in communities that need it most. Empire State Development is proud to support this new incubator which will only strengthen and grow this community moving forward."
Community Loan Fund of the Capital Region Executive Director Linda MacFarlane said, "As the Community Loan Fund approaches our historic 1,000th loan, it is fitting that we are breaking ground on a project that will revolutionize how we assist local entrepreneurs. Everyday issues such as lack of childcare facilities and affordable office space should not serve as a barrier to those aspiring business owners. We are confident that this project will combat those issues and allow even more Capital Region residents to access our services."
The Community Loan Fund of the Capital Region is a nonprofit community development financial institution serving the Capital Region of New York which exists to promote sustainable community development efforts for economically underserved people and communities in the region. Since 1985, the Community Loan Fund has loaned more than $61 million – and leveraged more than $215 million – for economic development in the Capital Region. The Loan Fund has financed more than 925 community projects, including 322 minority- and women-owned businesses.
The incubator expansion is part of a larger effort to revitalize Albany’s Clinton Avenue area, which includes the redevelopment of four historic rowhouses including 13 units, the former Public School Number 7 to create 13 units, and the new construction mixed-use building including 36 units and 1,400 square feet of commercial space to create a total 62 affordable homes. Clinton Avenue Apartments II is currently under construction and is supported by an allocation of $1,609,752 in Low Income Housing Tax Credits and subsidy from New York State Homes and Community Renewal.
New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, "This revitalization effort not only represents new opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs in the Capital Region but will ultimately mean a brighter future for 62 households who will benefit from an affordable home in the heart of Albany. HCR is committed to working with our partners like ESD and Home Leasing on projects that build up entire communities, and the work beginning today with the ACES Incubator will do just that for Arbor Hill. Thank you to Governor Hochul for her focus on revitalizing neighborhoods and creating new economic opportunities across New York."
CREDC Co-Chairs Ruth Mahoney, Executive Vice President, President of Wealth Management and Regional President at NBT Bank, and Dr. Havidán Rodríguez, University at Albany President, said, "Small businesses are the cornerstone of our neighborhoods and the new ACES Incubator will provide much needed support and services to our most distressed communities and strengthen the City of Albany in the process. We look forward to welcoming this new addition to the Sheridan Hollow neighborhood."
Senator Neil Breslin said, "This ACES incubator program will help spur entrepreneurship for minority and women owned business and diversify our regional economy here in Albany."
Assemblymember Patricia Fahy said, "Small businesses are the lifeblood of our state and local economy. The Albany Center for Economic Success Incubator expansion will facilitate even more women and minority-owned businesses here in Albany and the Capital Region, while supporting aspiring entrepreneurs with the resources and services necessary to thrive. Investments like this uplift our entire community and City, and I couldn’t be more proud to see this project come to fruition thanks to the collaboration of Empire State Development, the Community Loan Fund of the Capital Region, Capital Region Regional Economic Development Council, and more.”
Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy said, "When we support minority- and women-owned enterprises, Albany County’s economy benefits as a whole. This is especially true after the COVID pandemic has had disproportionate impacts on our underserved neighborhoods. The Community Loan Fund’s ACES Incubator has proven to be a tremendous resource for start-ups and small businesses around the Capital Region, and I’m thrilled to see that their footprint in the community is growing with this expansion. I want to thank Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for this strategic $800,000 investment in this project that will surely pay dividends further down the road."
Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan said, "The ACES Incubator has become a place for minority- and women-owned businesses to grow into a sustainable enterprise, and I am excited to break ground on this $4 million expansion. Not only will entrepreneurs have additional opportunities to succeed, but this project will provide much-needed day care services and technical support to help ensure businesses thrive. Thank you to Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for making this significant investment in Albany's Sheridan Hollow neighborhood and supporting the Community Loan Fund of the Capital Region and our local MWBEs."
About Empire State Development
Empire State Development (ESD) is New York's chief economic development agency. 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 New York State Regional Economic Development Councils and the marketing of "I LOVE NY," the State's iconic tourism brand. For more information on Regional Councils and Empire State Development, please visit www.regionalcouncils.ny.gov and www.esd.ny.gov.
Contact:
Kristin Devoe | [email protected] | (518) 414-1087
ESD Press Office | [email protected] | (800) 260-7313
Press Release
Thursday, April 27, 2023 - 9:04am
Office has Awarded $13 Million to 22 Innovative Training Programs Across the State
Read Executive Summary Here
Read Full Progress Report Here
Empire State Development (ESD) today released the first progress report from its Office of Strategic Workforce Development (OSWD), announced by Governor Hochul in her 2022 State of the State address to reimagine New York State’s approach to strategic, collaborative and equitable workforce development. The report, which provides detailed information regarding the implementation of the Governor’s $350 million Workforce Development Initiative, includes an update on OSWD’s $150 million workforce development grant programs and other major milestones since its creation in April 2022 as part of the FY 2023 Budget. Subsequent progress reports will be issued on an annual basis.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Our Office of Strategic Workforce Development has hit the ground running and is continuing to make strategic investments that will train employees for New York State’s high growth industries and will provide our workforce with the tools they need to succeed today, and for the future. We are also laying the important groundwork for standardized and quantifiable metrics to evaluate and track the impact these grants are making across industries, organizations and participants to guide future rounds of funding.”
New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, “I thank Governor Hochul for her unending commitment to ensuring all New Yorkers receive accessible, quality training services to gain the skills they need to thrive in our economy. I am so proud to be part of this collaborative effort that will continue to put New Yorkers on the path to success for years to come.”
Since the Office’s creation, OSWD has established the $115 million Pay for Performance and the $35 million Workforce Development Capital Grant Programs to meet the needs of New York State employers in high-growth industries, increase the capacity of workforce training providers, and better position New Yorkers to fill high-quality, in-demand jobs. The Office launched its $150 million grant program and awarded over $13 million to launch and grow 22 innovative programs to prepare New Yorkers for careers in advanced manufacturing, biotech and life sciences, cleantech and renewable energy, construction, photonics, film and television production and software and digital media. These grant programs will leverage more than $10 million in public and private funding to support nearly 7,000 trainees for over 200 businesses.
It has also developed a new metrics reporting framework to better track outcomes and prioritize investment in effective workforce models. All awardees are required to report standardized outcomes data throughout the grant period and beyond, including training completion and job placements rates, and will seek to track wage growth for participants, among other data. These metrics will allow ESD to evaluate the impact of funded programs and adapt its grantmaking strategy in future rounds to meet the needs of job seekers and employers. ESD is also charged with reporting on the success of other workforce programs funded through the FY 2023 budget and is collaborating with sister agencies to align metrics and report on the overall impact of the State’s investments across the workforce development ecosystem.
Additional information about OSWD’s progress, including active and upcoming projects and investments, are also available in the report.
About Empire State Development
Empire State Development (ESD) is New York's chief economic development agency. 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 New York State Regional Economic Development Councils and the marketing of "I LOVE NY," the State's iconic tourism brand. For more information on Regional Councils and Empire State Development, please visit www.regionalcouncils.ny.gov and www.esd.ny.gov.
Contact:
Kristin Devoe | [email protected] | (518) 414-1087
ESD Press Office | [email protected] | (800) 260-7313
Report
Wednesday, April 26, 2023 - 10:47am
View Report
Press Release
Wednesday, April 26, 2023 - 10:22am
Condiment Manufacturer, Featured on YouTube Show ‘Hot Ones’, Commits to Creating Nearly 40 New Jobs
Investment Complements “Finger Lakes Forward” – The Region’s Comprehensive Strategy to Revitalize Communities and Grow the Economy
Empire State Development (ESD) today announced that farm-to-table hot sauce and condiments producer, The Karma Sauce Company, is ready to grow its manufacturing operations in the City of Rochester, Monroe County and at its Burning Springs Farm in the Town of Bristol, Ontario County. The Karma Sauce line is hand-processed and bottled at 90 Canal Street in Rochester where the company is ready to upgrade its 10,000 square-foot manufacturing facility by purchasing additional equipment in an effort to keep up with the growing demand for its renowned products. Karma Sauce has additionally committed to creating up to 37 new jobs over the next five years;10 jobs will be retained. With an eye towards future expansion, the company is also currently working to become Safe Quality Food (SQF) certified, which in turn will open them up to supplying national and worldwide retailers and food service provider/manufacturers who require that certification.
Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight said, "It's so exciting to see entrepreneurs realize their dreams and I congratulate Karma Sauce on growing its state-of-the-art facility in the Finger Lakes, where locally sourced ingredients are key to the brand’s popularity. This hot sauce maker will also heat up the regional economy with the addition of good-paying jobs, in an expansion that also reflects New York’s ongoing support of the state’s agribusiness ecosystem."
Founded in 2008, The Karma Sauce Company designs recipes, grows the ingredients used, and handcrafts its own sauces in its micro-factory in Rochester. Word of mouth acclaim, including being featured in 2018 on the YouTube Channel show ‘Hot Ones’, led to an expanded line of over twenty distinctively flavored products, made with vegetables grown on its farm located in the Town of Bristol in Ontario County. Other locally sourced ingredients are also featured in Karma Sauce products. The expansion will additionally create future job opportunities on the farm.
Gene Olczak, founder of The Karma Sauce Company said, "From our humble beginnings over a decade ago, we are thrilled to be expanding our operations here in New York state. This investment will not only allow us to keep up with the growing demand for our products but also create good-paying jobs and contribute to the local economy. We are grateful for the support of Empire State Development and our local partners in helping us share our love of flavorful, farm-to-table condiments with the world. "
ESD is supporting the company’s expansion in New York state with up to $400,000 in performance-based Excelsior Tax Credits in exchange for the company's job creation commitments. Monroe County, the City of Rochester, Rochester Gas & Electric (RG&E) and Greater Rochester Enterprise (GRE) are also assisting with the project. The total project cost has been placed at a little more than $1 million.
This project additionally supports the locally designed strategy of the Finer Lakes Regional Economic Development Council (FLREDC) which is laser focused on supporting next generation manufacturing and technology in the agriculture and food production industries in an effort to move the region forward.
State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, “Congratulations Karma Sauce on your current success and expansion. It is always a cause for celebration to see a local company continue to grow and invest in our region. I look forward to seeing Karma continue to grow here in Rochester and stand ready to assist them however possible.”
State Assemblymember Demond Meeks said, “I am grateful to see a clear investment toward providing well-paying jobs and economic opportunities for members of our community. As our city begins a process of major revitalization, it is important that we continue to support the growth and success of local businesses such as the Karma Sauce Company. Congratulations to the family and staff of Karma Sauce on their significant expansion and for their continued commitment to Greater Rochester.”
State Senator Pam Helming said, “From our family farms that give us fresh, locally-grown ingredients, to the tremendous resources available to support food innovators, the Finger Lakes is one of the ‘hottest’ spots to grow and thrive in food, beverage and agribusiness. Congratulations to Gene Olczak and the entire Karma Sauce team on their continued success.”
State Assemblywoman Marjorie Byrnes said, “This is very exciting news for the entire region. The continued success of Karma Sauce demonstrates the importance of shopping small and supporting local.”
Monroe County Executive Adam Bello said, “Monroe County is proud to be home to a dynamic and innovative company expanding its operations here and contributing to our local economy and culinary landscape. This expansion not only supports local job growth but also showcases the entrepreneurial spirit that drives Monroe County's economy. Congratulations to Karma Sauce Company on their continued success.”
City of Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans said, “I want to congratulate Karma Sauce on their expansion and thank them for making this investment in Rochester. Thank you as well to Governor Kathy Hochul and Empire State Development for supporting Rochester’s economy through Finger Lakes Forward. Together we creating a safe, equitable and prosperous Rochester by inspiring hope and delivering opportunity for everyone.”
President and CEO of RG&E and NYSEG Patricia Nilsen, said, “As a company celebrating its 175th year in the greater Rochester area, RG&E is delighted to see The Karma Sauce Company expand its operations in this thriving community. We are always excited to support new and growing businesses and deliver the energy that makes their operations successful.”
Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce President and CEO and Finger Lakes Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chair Bob Duffy said, "We're thrilled to see Karma Sauce Company, a company committed to locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices, continue to grow and create jobs in the Finger Lakes region. This investment is a testament to the company's success and the strength of our regional economy, and we look forward to supporting their continued expansion."
Matt Hurlbutt, president and CEO, Greater Rochester Enterprise said, “Karma Sauce’s continued expansion is a testament to the robust food manufacturing ecosystem in the Greater Rochester, NY, region. The full range of resources including rich agriculture to source products locally, talented workforce with food science expertise, and a strategic location that makes it easy to transport products to customers quickly, are the unique ingredients available in Rochester, NY that support Karma Sauce’s growth.
For more information about Karma Sauce, visit: https://karmasauce.com/.
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
Press Release
Tuesday, April 25, 2023 - 3:52pm
Project Will Reimagine Key City Gateway, Strengthen Neighborhood Connectivity and Create Proving Ground for Pop-Up Businesses, Events and Programming
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the start of construction on the Clinton Market Collective project that will renovate Federal Park at the corner of Clinton Avenue and Broadway into the Clinton Market Collective. The project, sponsored by Capitalize Albany, is receiving $1.16 million as part of the $10 million Albany Downtown Revitalization Initiative. The $3.56 million project also was recommended for a $750,000 Empire State Development capital grant from the Capital Regional Economic Development Council, a $1.1 million American Rescue Plan Act award from the City of Albany, and a $250,000 grant from National Grid.
"The Clinton Market Collective project is the latest example of how our investments are transforming communities and driving economic development in downtowns across the state," Governor Hochul said. "This Capital Region project will create better business and job opportunities in the area while supporting a more beautiful and vibrant space. Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, New York State will continue to deliver the resources communities need to thrive, flourish and reach their full potential."
This innovative reimagining of an underutilized property will result in the creation of a vibrant public space with a new market concept that serves as a proving ground for start-up businesses and hosts diverse pop-up retail, installments by local artists and signature events. The premier location of the market will strengthen a key gateway to the Capital City at the foot of the Skyway that greets more than 20,000 people daily, anchoring Clinton Square's role as both an engaging destination and a welcoming entry to the city's unique local neighborhoods, arts scene and commercial venues.
Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez said, "It is exciting to see the ground broken on this innovative Clinton Market Collaborative project which holds tremendous economic promise for the residents of Albany and the surrounding Capital District. The Clinton Market Collective is a catalyst that will spur the resurgence of Clinton Square by serving as a unique place for new businesses to grow, community members to gather and visitors to be welcomed into the city. Beautiful and vibrant public spaces are integral to downtown revitalization, and I am proud that the Department of State is able to support vital projects such as this one through our Downtown Revitalization Initiative."
The creation of the Clinton Market Collective will expand Clinton Square's significant strengths and opportunities that will be leveraged through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) investment. It is a primary gateway to the Capital City, serving as the front door to Albany for tens of thousands of New Yorkers and out-of-state visitors, including thousands of people who come to work here every day and the residents who call Clinton Square home. This area has a rich historic heritage represented by diverse architectural styles and landmarks, like Albany Union Station and Quackenbush House.
Clinton Market is set to complement the adjacent Skyway, the Capital Region's first and only elevated linear park - a project that was similarly designed under management of the City of Albany's economic development organization, Capitalize Albany, with funding assistance under a Regional Councils Initiative grant award.
While construction is underway, Capitalize Albany is stepping into a vital fundraising stage to support bringing additional key site amenities to the space which are needed to activate the market concept. The Corporation has packaged several highly visible corporate sponsorship opportunities to support the project's semi-permanent vendor space in specialized shipping containers, a performance stage, outdoor seating and more.
The Clinton Market site is bordered by Clinton Avenue on the south, Broadway on the east, North Pearl Street on the west and the Leo W. O'Brien Federal building on the north.
The City of Albany was named the Capital Region winner of Round 3 of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative. Albany's DRI plan is focused on revitalizing Clinton Square to create a welcoming gateway into the Capital City. This compact and walkable area, rich in history, arts and cultural assets, is where five city investment zones converge. The City envisions revitalizing Clinton Square directly while providing infill investments, corridor enhancements and targeted housing revitalization projects. With DRI investment, residents, visitors and the workforce will enjoy new links to the Hudson River.
Clinton Square is poised to be a thriving gateway district and a distinctive hub that connects and catalyzes activity in Downtown and the Warehouse District and draws this momentum into the Arbor Hill and Sheridan Hollow neighborhoods through public infrastructure enhancements, private project development and vibrant arts and entertainment investments.
Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "The Clinton Market Collective project is just the latest example of how the Downtown Revitalization Initiative continues to breathe new life into city centers, through strategic investments in projects that create vibrancy, opportunity and engagement. ESD is proud to join the Department of State and other partners in supporting a public space that will further energize downtown Albany as a home for art, retail and startup innovation."
Read the full press release here.
Press Release
Tuesday, April 25, 2023 - 12:06pm
Former Cigar Factory to be Transformed into Photography Museum, Gallery and Community Educational Center in Kingston
View Photos Here **
Empire State Development today announced the groundbreaking for the future home of the $2 million Center for Photography at Woodstock (CPW) at the former Van Slyke & Horton cigar factory located in the Midtown Arts District in Kingston, Ulster County. CPW has acquired the four story, 40,000 square foot commercial building and will adapt and transform it into a photography museum, gallery and community educational center, retaining 60 jobs and creating an additional seven jobs. This project will help grow the thriving arts and cultural movement in downtown Kingston, which is attracting residents and visitors to this historic city.
Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Transforming a onetime cigar factory into the Center for Photography’s new home showcases how our strategic regional investments work to re-envision communities around New York State. This historic building is now taking the long view, with a focus on art and education that will draw Kingston visitors and residents both now and for years to come.”
Executive Director of the Center for Photography at Woodstock Brian Wallis said, "CPW is deeply grateful to Governor Hochul and Mayor Noble for supporting this project, and for recognizing how the arts can be a key driver of downtown revitalization and economic development. We look forward to transforming this architecturally striking, historic building into a cultural hub that helps to build a sense of community in the Midtown Arts District and assures that Kingston is a great destination to live, work and visit in the Hudson Valley."
CPW was founded in 1977 and is dedicated to supporting artists working in photography and related media and provides an artistic home for contemporary and creative photography with exhibitions, workshops, auctions, lectures, services for artists, darkroom, gallery talks, programs for children, permanent collections, library archives, fellowship and publication. During the first phase of the project, CPW will renovate the basement and bottom two floors of the building for a photography museum and educational center and the top floors will be renovated during a second phase and will be utilized for commercial activity related to the local creative economy, in line with the city’s Art and Culture Master Plan, with the goal to become a cultural hub in Kingston. To support this project, Empire State Development awarded the City of Kingston a $1.5 million Restore NY grant to rehabilitate the building and an ESD Capital Grant of $350,000 recommended by the Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council.
Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chairs Dr. Marsha Gordon, President & CEO of The Business Council of Westchester and Dr. Kristine Young, president of SUNY Orange said, “Artists are the lifeblood and legacy of this area, and we are proud to support the Center of Photography as a vital hub for our creative community. Through education and the arts, we can continue to fuel the important work they do, driving inspiration as well as growth of the regional economy.”
Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “The Hudson Valley has always been an arts enclave, with our local arts and cultural organizations prevailing as two of our greatest economic drivers and a beacon of self-discovery that can inspire us to expand our worldview. We are thrilled that the Midtown Kingston Arts District will soon include the Center for Photography at Woodstock, which will continue to raise the profile of our community as a thriving hub for arts, culture, and learning.”
Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger said, "I'm thrilled to see the groundbreaking of the Center for Photography at Woodstock in Midtown Kingston, and want to thank Governor Hochul, Empire State Development CEO Hope Knight, and the Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council for helping to make this artistic and cultural vision a reality. I look forward to seeing the many ways that CPW's new facility will enrich our community, support our local artists, inspire the next generation of photographers, and contribute to the economic vitality of our County and region."
City of Kingston Mayor Steve Noble said, “I would like to thank Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for their commitment to Kingston. CPW’s purchase and adaptive reuse of this long underutilized building fits perfectly within our economic development goals of continuing to support a vibrant arts and cultural hub here in the heart of Kingston. We look forward to the work planned for this building and seeing a new community development opportunity flourish.”
About Empire State Development
Empire State Development (ESD) is New York's chief economic development agency. 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 New York State Regional Economic Development Councils and the marketing of "I LOVE NY," the State's iconic tourism brand. For more information on Regional Councils and Empire State Development, please visit www.regionalcouncils.ny.gov and www.esd.ny.gov.
*** Photos courtesy of ©Eduard Hueber/archphoto
Contact:
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