The Broome County IDA is considering developing a business park to attract new technology-based companies to the area. Enabling expansion of existing companies. Provide long-term jobs to retain and attract skilled workers. It functions as a base for coordinated economic activities.
Business parks foster economic growth through job creation and tax revenue. By locating these parks in potentially undeveloped areas, local governments can boost economic activity and increase employment opportunities. and improve the quality of life of residents. Requiring robust infrastructure, these parks serve as a catalyst for improvements to roads, public facilities, and data networks.
Our vision is to build parks using sustainable materials and energy efficient infrastructure. They provide a natural buffer and support diverse natural ecosystems. Spaces to support a new generation of workers with walking paths, art installations, and green spaces. We envision a non-industrial-looking park that attracts advanced technology and labor and protects local talent.
This is possible. It's happening all over the world as communities adapt to new economic realities. We have established a dynamic team that includes experts in design, sustainability and environmental engineering. This team will produce a beautiful park that attracts today's leading technology companies.
The site being considered is located off Airport Road, straddling the towns of Maine and Union. We have 420 acres under option or contract and would like to acquire another 100 acres. The I-81/86 interchange is a short drive from BGM Airport, currently undergoing a $40 million redevelopment. Already home to the Airport Corporate Center and several businesses along Airport Road, the corridor has seen significant investment by the county to expand water, sewer and broadband services.
This is also a corridor where people live. We know that and respect that. That's why we complete his year-long comprehensive review and due diligence process. Our first steps are to distribute a survey to residents and conduct a public information session to prepare for a formal public scoping session for the New York State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR). We also complete a full General Environmental Impact Statement (GEIS).
We're asking community members to tell us what they want from the design and any areas they have concerns. Community engagement is essential to building trust and common goals. Through mutual respect and the exchange of factual information, we can build a future of promise and prosperity.
After this inclusive and collaborative process, we invite the community to view the design and provide feedback. Involving residents in the planning process ensures their concerns are considered and promotes a sense of community within the park.
Eventually, with a fully permitted and shovel-ready park, IDA will be able to implement its business attraction plan. New businesses brighten the future of our community by bringing great companies, good-paying jobs, and talented workers to our region. Positive impact on housing inventory, education, and nonprofit organizations.
Building this park is a strategic investment with the potential to foster long-term economic growth, retain the region's youth, attract talent and position the region at the forefront of global competitiveness. I look forward to working together.
Stacey Duncan is executive director of the Broome County IDA/LDC Agency and president and CEO of the Greater Binghamton Chamber of Commerce.
