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News from Upstate

Work on the CNY Biotech Research Center back on track

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Construction is expected to restart early next year on the $22 million Central New York Biotechnology Research Center, thanks to the availability of $4.2 million in state funding that is expected to be released soon.

Construction was halted in late July after state funding for the project was delayed.

A joint venture between Upstate Medical University and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, the Central New York Biotechnology Research Center (CNYBRC) will be a 60,000 square-foot facility to house biotechnology, educational and research programs.

“I am pleased to announce that the state was able to release the funds necessary to get this project in motion. At a time when our local economy is in a slump, this project offers many exciting opportunities for job creation in our community, as well as the construction of a world-class facility,” said state Senator John DeFrancisco.

“The Central New York Biotechnology Research Center will house up to 18 new laboratories bringing sorely needed jobs to Syracuse and continue the revitalization of the former Kennedy Square site in Syracuse,” said SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry President Cornelius B. Murphy, Jr., Ph.D. “Release of these funds brings us one step further in realizing the potential of the Center. We are grateful for the Gen*NY*sis program funding secured by Senator De Francisco.”

“Senator DeFrancisco has been an ardent supporter of this project from the day it was only an idea,” said SUNY Upstate President David R. Smith, M.D. “We’re grateful for his work in getting this project back on track. Economic development in Syracuse cannot be delayed any longer.”

The release of the additional $4.2 million will enable the construction process to begin, with a rebidding of the project this fall and work resuming in the spring. Project completion and move-in will occur approximately in May 2012.

The center is being built on the former Kennedy Square site located on East Fayette Street, in Syracuse.

While the CNYBRC will occupy four acres, Upstate will seek development ideas of the other 10 acres from private developers for a mix use of residential and commercial space.