GOVERNOR PATERSON ANNOUNCES THE START OF CONSTRUCTION FOR SUNY BINGHAMTON’S NEW ENGINEERING AND SCIENCE BUILDING

Enhanced Innovative Technologies Complex Helps Position Binghamton and New York at Forefront of Advanced Micro-Technology

Project Will Bring 1,500 New Construction Jobs to Binghamton

Governor David A. Paterson gave the ceremonial kick-off for construction of a new 125,000 square foot Science and Engineering Building, which will be the new centerpiece for Binghamton University’s Innovative Technologies Complex. The project is expected to be completed by August of 2011, bringing 1,500 new construction jobs to Binghamton and generating $112 million.

The construction of Binghamton University’s new Science and Engineering Center follows two historic announcements from Governor Paterson, and taken together, position New York State as the global leader in advanced microtechnology. As part of the 2006 budget, Senator Thomas Libous and Assembly member Donna Lupardo secured funding for the $66 million project.

“We must lay the foundation for New York’s economy of the future, and this investment in our State’s public higher education system will not only strengthen our global leadership position in advanced technology development, but it will also strengthen our State’s young minds, developing a workforce for the 21st century,” said Governor Paterson. “I applaud Senator Libous and Assemblywoman Lupardo’s advocacy for the State University system, helping to secure the funding necessary to make this valuable investment in our infrastructure.”

On Tuesday, Governor Paterson announced that Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) and its new investment partner, Advanced Technology Investment Company (ATIC), took a crucial next step in developing a new computer chip production facility at the Luther Forest Technology Campus in Saratoga County. This advancement clears the way for construction of one of the most advanced semiconductor manufacturing facilities in the world, as well as one of the largest private sector industrial investments in New York State history.

On July 15, the Governor announced that IBM would invest $1.5 billion into three separate projects; the expansion of IBM’s operations at the College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering at the University at Albany (Albany NanoTech), the creation of a new, advanced semiconductor packaging research and development center at a to-be-determined site in Upstate New York, and upgrading of IBM’s East Fishkill facility in Dutchess County.

Binghamton University has become one of America’s premier research universities, and it consistently ranks among the top 50 public universities in the nation. SUNY Binghamton’s sponsored research funding increased 24 percent in the last year alone. It is estimated that the University has a $673 million economic impact in the Southern Tier.

U.S. Representative Maurice Hinchey said: “I applaud the investment that New York State is making in this new Engineering and Science Building at Binghamton University. While these are difficult fiscal times for the State and federal government, it is not a time to retreat from investing in research and education. I am pleased the this university continues to distinguish itself as a hub for cutting edge research and look forward to strengthening the partnership between Binghamton University, local businesses, and the State and federal governments.”

Senator Thomas Libous said: “I’m thrilled to have Governor Paterson here today as we unveil the plans for Binghamton University’s new Engineering and Science Building. Half of BU’s engineering school graduates remain in New York State. Many of those graduates are employed locally at companies like Lockheed Martin, McFarland-Johnson, BAE or other engineering firms in our area. Making an investment like this state-of-the-art building at BU is an investment for our community and our local economy.”

Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo said: “I am very excited to see this Engineering and Science building being built. This is the second building to be developed at the Innovative Technology Complex Facility. This will not only enhance the prestige of Binghamton University, but will also have a positive impact on the entire Southern Tier.”

Barbara J. Fiala, Broome County Executive, said: “I want to thank Governor Paterson for his continued commitment to our secondary education system in New York State. We are beyond proud of Binghamton University’s advancements, and we are grateful for its strong community partnership. At Binghamton University and across the State, our institutions provide superior instruction and experience thanks to the support from our State leaders.”

Peter H. Andreasen, Town of Vestal Supervisor, said: “The addition of this facility will not only enhance an already full and trend setting curriculum, but will significantly add new and state-of-the-art capabilities for the benefit of Binghamton University, industry and technology in the Greater Binghamton Area, New York State and wherever it is needed and explored.”

Lois B. DeFleur, President of Binghamton University, said: “We are grateful to Governor Paterson for this project, which is so significant for this region and New York State. Through the leadership of Senator Libous and Assemblywoman Lupardo, funding for this project was obtained. This facility will enhance the education of our students and the innovative research of our faculty. The unique features of this state-of-the-art building will strengthen our partnerships throughout the region and State.”