State awards $500,000 grant for critical power and wastewater infrastructure studies in Broome County

Union, NY The Broome County Industrial Development Agency (BCIDA) has been awarded a $500,000 grant through Empire State Development’s Focused Attraction of Shovel-Ready Tracts (FAST) NY program to launch a comprehensive study of power and wastewater infrastructure serving the towns of Maine and Union, particularly the area north of Johnson City.

The study will analyze needed wastewater and power infrastructure upgrades that would support economic development in Broome County, including the proposed Broome Technology Park. The engineering studies will focus on improving wastewater infrastructure along a key corridor near the Oakdale Commons and upgrading power capacity from NYSEG to power the Tech Park development. Ensuring that infrastructure can meet future demand is critical to supporting new projects and the jobs and tax revenues they will bring to the community.

“This investment allows us to move from vision to action,” said Stacey Duncan, BCIDA executive director and CEO of the Leadership Alliance. “Infrastructure capacity is the foundation of any development, from affordable housing to major manufacturing facilities. Our goal is to stay one step ahead of the needs of growing communities, clearing a pathway for new jobs, taxes and amenities that bene?t all.”

“This is about building a stronger future for the people of Broome County,” Broome County executive Jason Garnar said. “It ensures we have the infrastructure in place to welcome new jobs, new housing, and new opportunities for families. By staying ahead of the demand, we’re laying the groundwork for a stronger economy and a brighter future for our community.”

The FAST NY program is designed to help communities prepare strategic, infrastructure- ready sites that can attract major employers and private investment. In announcing the latest round of grants for communities statewide governor Kathy Hochul said that through FAST NY, the state is “able to promote manufacturing and bring in good-paying jobs to communities throughout New York State.” More information on the latest round of FAST NY grants is available here.

Proactive infrastructure planning is a key component of achieving the goals of the New York Southern Tier Cleantech Strategy, a ground-breaking blueprint released earlier this year by economic development agencies from across the Southern Tier. The Cleantech Strategy focuses on how the region can access the burgeoning clean energy and high-tech economies that are transforming upstate New York.

“Broome County deserves the opportunity to secure the kinds of generational investments we’ve seen in places like Central New York and the Capital Region that are revamping the state’s economy for a tech-driven future,” Duncan said. 

“We commend governor Hochul and Empire State Development for the vital strategic approach of the FAST NY program, which is helping us get there by advancing thoughtful planning that can unlock new opportunity for people from across the county.”