$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."