Lesko of Accelerate Long Island speaks at LIREG networking breakfast

The executive director of a L.I. economic development group told members of the Long Island Real Estate Group (LIREG) that they need to work closer with start up companies that have the potential to grow rapidly and who'll need more space. "We're looking at a steady stream of biotechnology startups that need a place to live," said Mark Lesko, executive director of Accelerate Long Island, at the LIREG networking breakfast. The March 13th event was attended by 140 members at the Old Westbury Golf and Country Club. Lesko told the audience of real estate and allied professionals that many of these firms started by young entrepreneurs want to be in or near N.Y.C. "Remember there's that sucking sound coming from N.Y.C.," he said. "It is difficult competing with N.Y.C., but we can be competitive in terms of real estate pricing." He said, "Lifestyle is important to them. One in two live in N.Y.C. and reverse commute." Lesko said that some new businesses are willing to locate as far east on L.I. as Rte. 110. "The red line for these reverse commuters is Rte.110. We need to focus on that realty." "Nevertheless," he said. "Areas surrounding Hicksville and Mineola are attractive to these new businesses, because they are located midway between Suffolk and Manhattan and can attract reverse commuters."