Looking Forward To A Bright Future in Central New York
By Senator John A. DeFrancisco

Lately many Central New Yorkers have pondered the future of Upstate New York’s economic health. Some of you have asked what is on the horizon to keep Central New York’s economy competitive and thriving.

Upstate government and business leaders have embarked on a promising project that could transform Central New York into a leader in the Biotechnology industry. As a native of Central New York, I know how vital unique economic development opportunities are to our community and the residents. Job creation continues to be one of my priorities as a State Senator, especially during these challenging financial times. That is why I spearheaded support for an $80 million Biotechnology Research Center which will be built here in Syracuse.

In September, we announced $20 million in support for phase one of the Biotechnology Research Center. The Biotechnology Research Center was the brain child of officials at SUNY Upstate Medical University and the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry.

The 240,000 square foot facility will be completed in three phases and will include 40 research laboratories, greenhouse facilities, conference centers, and other high tech capabilities. Scientists and researchers will focus on plant and animal biotechnology research which will include DNA extraction and sequencing, bioinformatic tissue engineering, and genotyping and genome mapping.

Bringing scientists from diverse backgrounds together under one roof to exchange ideas could lead to some ground breaking discoveries as well as major medical breakthroughs. The possibilities are endless when it comes to finding cures for diseases that are stumping health professionals or improving and creating new pharmaceuticals that may ease your own symptoms someday.

The project is unique in that it will forge some unprecedented partnerships between the public and private sectors. Some of Central New York’s most committed business leaders have pledged their support for the project including Welch-Allyn, Bristol-Myers Squibb, and O’Brien and Gere.

The investment is expected to create over 1,000 high tech, high paying jobs in Central New York. The Center’s benefits will reach far beyond the walls of the facility by spurring spin-off companies. These entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to produce and market some of the premiere discoveries born at the Biotechnology Center.

New businesses and innovative products are a sure way to promote continued economic growth and an expanding workforce in Central New York. Initiatives like this are the types of ventures that will sustain our Central New York economy for years to come and help to make our community a world leader in a revolutionary field.

The Feature Guest does not necessarily represent the views of the TDO or it’s staff. It offers local and state legislators an opportunity to express their viewpoints. If there is a legislator you would like to see represented, please email: skuhns@tdo.org.