More than $51 million in grants have been awarded to five projects across upstate New York as part of the Focused Attraction of Shovel-Ready Tracts New York (FAST NY) program, according to an announcement from Governor Kathy Hochul. The funding is intended to prepare sites for high-growth industries and attract large employers, especially in manufacturing and technology sectors.
The FAST NY program, managed by Empire State Development, aims to improve site readiness across the state by supporting infrastructure upgrades that can help bring new investments and jobs. Since its launch, the program has distributed over $283 million to 34 sites throughout upstate New York. An additional $100 million was secured for the program in the fiscal year 2026 budget.
Governor Hochul stated, “Through FAST NY, we’re able to promote manufacturing and bring in good-paying jobs to communities throughout New York State. Companies like Micron, Edwards Vacuum, Chobani and fairlife want to come to New York because we have the hardest working individuals, and having shovel-ready sites makes New York State an international competitor for world-class companies to expand their operations here.”
The latest round of awards includes:
– Oneida County: $32.36 million will be used for utility infrastructure work at the Triangle Site at Griffiss International Airport in Rome. The improvements will extend utilities and enhance capacity for both current development and future expansion on adjacent land.
– Webster Community Coalition for Economic Development (Monroe County): $9.8 million will support road reconstruction, sewer upgrades, electrical planning, and other improvements at the Northeast Area for Technology site in Webster. This project targets redevelopment of a former brownfield property into a hub for advanced manufacturing.
– Oswego County Industrial Development Agency: $8.1 million will fund roadway improvements, utility expansions—including water, sewer, power—and telecommunications at L. Michael Treadwell Oswego County Industrial Park in Schroeppel. The location is positioned near Micron’s facilities and is expected to attract semiconductor supply chain businesses.
– Broome County Industrial Development Agency: $500,000 is allocated for pre-development work at Broome Technology Park in Union. The funds will go toward utility design studies and sustainability planning with a focus on attracting industries such as energy storage and life sciences.
– Greene County: $400,000 will advance pre-development activities at Hudson River Commerce Park in Catskill by funding engineering studies aimed at expediting site readiness.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said,“With Governor Hochul’s support, New York State continues to build for the future by partnering with local agencies to create and grow the number of shovel-ready sites throughout Upstate New York. By investing in the infrastructure that supports high-tech industries, we are building an ecosystem that promotes sustainable economic growth and helps to create good paying jobs for New Yorkers.”
These investments are part of ongoing efforts by state officials to make upstate locations more attractive options for business expansion or relocation.
