Amid the nationwide shortage of FAA controllers and as the nation grapples with an increasing number of aviation incidents, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today called on the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to include SUNY Schenectady’s Aviation Science and Air Traffic Control degree program in its Enhanced Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program. Schumer said this partnership will boost air traffic control education and training to support aspiring air traffic controllers in Upstate NY and make our skies safer, creating a pipeline of local students to enter this high paying career and address the nationwide shortage.

“As Americans across the country grapple with more and more aviation incidents, we need to take action to ensure the FAA has the resources it needs to keep our skies safe. SUNY Schenectady’s air traffic controller training program is uniquely qualified and ready to create a local pipeline of students to enter this high-paying career, it just needs the final approval from FAA.  I’m urging the FAA to work with SUNY Schenectady to make this happen ASAP and give America the talent it needs to address the national air traffic controller shortage,” said Senator Schumer. “SUNY Schenectady’s top-notch program is nationally recognized as a leader for aviation science. The FAA can help the next generation of air traffic controllers’ right here in the Capital Region, and I am fighting to get the final approval to make it happen.”

Dr. Steady Moono, SUNY Schenectady President, said, “SUNY Schenectady continues to be at the forefront of aviation training in the region. We have invested in the future, to provide our students with the largest and most comprehensive Air Traffic Control simulator at a community college east of the Mississippi. We are honored to stand with Senator Schumer in addressing the urgent need for skilled air traffic controllers across the nation. SUNY Schenectady is prepared and eager to be part of the solution through the FAA’s Collegiate Training Initiative. With our proven track record in aviation education and commitment to student success, we are ready to equip the next generation of air traffic professionals with the training, discipline, and excellence that this critical role demands.”

“We are grateful to Senator Schumer for his continued support of SUNY Schenectady and his commitment to addressing the national shortage of air traffic controllers,” said Gary Hughes, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature.  “SUNY Schenectady’s Aviation Science and Air Traffic Control Program provides students with practical, skills-focused training that supports our regional workforce and responds to the needs of today’s economy. A partnership with the FAA would expand opportunities for students while also helping to strengthen aviation safety nationwide.”

Air traffic controllers across the country have been warning about low staffing levels for years. As of September 2023, according to CNN, only about 70% of FAA staffing targets were filled by fully certified controllers, with some major airports at less than 60%. Schumer said boosting SUNY Schenectady’s Aviation Science and Air Traffic Control degree program is key to supporting aspiring air traffic controllers and keeping our skies safe.

SUNY Schenectady runs a successful curriculum for its Aviation Science and Air Traffic Control degree program to train air traffic controllers, including a state-of-the-art simulator that only exists in one other place. The program, which is run at the Schenectady County airport and SUNY Schenectady’s main campus, recently completed a new Center for Aviation Sciences building and is a leader for aviation safety education. SUNY Schenectady has been working with the FAA for over a year to be admitted into the Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative Program, which provides new training at eligible colleges to deliver new air traffic controllers to the workforce faster and address the national shortages. SUNY Schenectady is at one of the final steps for FAA’s requirements and are about to host FAA for a site visit.

Schumer’s letter to Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau can be found below:

Dear Administrator Rocheleau:

I am writing to express my strong support for the inclusion of SUNY Schenectady County Community College (SUNY Schenectady) into the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)’s Enhanced Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program.

As the nation grapples with an increasing number of near-misses and tragic aviation incidents, the urgency of investing in the next generation of highly trained, competent air traffic controllers has never been greater. The aviation system is already under unprecedented stress — from soaring flight volumes to a wave of retirements within the controller workforce. These challenges demand not only swift action but also a broader and more expansive approach to air traffic control education and training. 

SUNY Schenectady has its Aviation Science and Air Traffic Control degree program that is recognized across the SUNY System, New York state and our nation. This program carries an excellent reputation for training the next generation of pilots and air traffic controllers. This well-established program is based at SUNY Schenectady’s main campus and the Schenectady County airport, which is also home to the 109^th Air National Guard unit that flies LC-130 ski birds to polar regions in support of missions led by both the Department of Defense and National Science Foundation.  

SUNY Schenectady has recently completed a new $5 million Center for Aviation Sciences building and earlier this year installed new state-of-the-art simulators to enhance its already robust air traffic controller program.  In February of 2024, SUNY Schenectady was named, among only nine other community colleges in the country, a Leader College by Achieving The Dream (ATD), a national non-profit dedicated to advancing community colleges as hubs of equity and economic mobility in their communities.

The recent air tragedies have underscored how important it is to increase ATC training and hiring, and SUNY Schenectady is well-positioned to help meet this urgent national need. More trained controllers make for safer skies, more efficient airports, and higher confidence by the flying public. I applaud SUNY Schenectady’s foresight in submitting this application and sincerely hope it is met with your approval. Please do not hesitate to contact my Washington DC office at (202) 224-6542. Thank you for your consideration.

Schenectady, N.Y. — Live-In Schenectady, a group of private investors committed to investing in new housing in Schenectady, today announced that its first 15 homes have been completed and sold.  The innovative housing partnership plans to begin construction of 14 more homes this summer.

“We just sold the model home so all 15 homes we built are now completed and sold,” said John Roth, one of the Live-In Schenectady partners and CEO of Highbridge Development, a commercial builder and development company. “We will now take the proceeds from Phase I and get started on building more homes.”

The first 15 homes were built on vacant lots on Barrett Street that the consortium purchased from the City of Schenectady.

“On behalf of all of the Live-In team, we are proud of these new homes and the investment we have made as a group to promote home ownership in Schenectady,” said David Buicko, a Live-In investor and CEO of the Galesi Group.

“Our Live-In Schenectady investment group is proud to have transformed vacant lots into new homes and we plan to keep moving forward,” said Jim Connolly, an investor in Live-In Schenectady and former CEO at Ellis Hospital.

Gary Hughes, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature said, “We thank Live-In Schenectady investors for this innovative approach to building more housing that we hope is a model that other communities can follow.”

Mayor Gary McCarthy said, “Schenectady is growing, and we need new housing. Live-In Schenectady is meeting the need for new owner-occupied housing, and we are pleased that they will keep building new homes going forward.”

To obtain more information about Live-In Schenectady new homes contact Mary D’Alessandro-Gilmore at (518) 334-3687 or Joseph Farry at (518) 669-4788.  Both are realtors with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Blake Realtors.

Schenectady County ranked as the 4^th fastest growing county in New York State last year and its gross domestic product, a key economic indicator, grew at the fastest rate of any county in New York State.

To meet the demand for new housing, Metroplex, the county’s lead economic development agency, has supported the construction of new housing working with partners including Live-In Schenectady, Better Community Neighborhoods Inc. and many private developers.

In a few months, new housing will become available at Elmer Gardens, the former Elmer Avenue School, which is being converted to senior housing, and at the Mosaic development which is bringing new residential development to Mont Pleasant. In addition, 41 new townhomes are under construction on Summit Avenue in Hamilton Hill. This summer, 54 new senior apartments will come on-line at Rivers Ledge Phase 2 in Niskayuna.

In recent years, Metroplex has been supportive of the construction of more than 3,000 new housing units in Schenectady County.

A list of Live-In Schenectady investors follows:
Advanced Ventures, LLC – Competitive Advantage Group
Barrett Street Village LLC – Neil and Jane Golub
Capital Region Gaming, LLC – Rivers Casino & Resort
Civco Live-In Schenectady, LLC – Transfinder
Curtis Lumber Co. Inc. – Jay S. Curtis
The Daily Gazette Co.
DRL Schenectady Housing, LLC – BBL Construction Services
Friend of the Community, LLC – Jim Connolly
Galesi Management Corporation
HB Housing Group, LLC – Highbridge Development Group
Jackson Demolition Service, Inc. – Sandy Jackson
James T. Pollard Architect, P.C./DBA: Re4orm Architecture
LeChase Construction Service, Inc.
NBT Bancorp, Inc.
Northeastern Fine Jewelry – Raymond A. Bleser
Precision Industrial Maintenance, Inc. – Todd Kilburn
Saratoga National Bank
Schenectady Hardware and Electric – Christopher Spraragen

A list of participating banks follows:
Ballston Spa National Bank
Berkshire Bank
Capital Bank
Kinderhook Bank
NBT Bank
Pioneer Bank
Saratoga National Bank

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. — Insomnia Cookies, the beloved, cult cookie brand known for serving warm cookies all day and late into the night, announced its grand opening events for this week at its new location in downtown Schenectady. The new bakery will be located at 118 Jay Street across from City Hall.

Here to the rescue when that craving for something sweet hits (even at 3 a.m.!), Insomnia Cookies offers in-store, pickup, and delivery options for customers to experience the company’s signature warm, delicious cookies. From the Classic Chocolate Chunk cookie to favorites like Snickerdoodle and Confetti Deluxe, decadent brookies, brownies, and blondies, a full slate of vegan options, and a frequently-rotating limited-edition menu, the brand’s offerings satisfy every sweet tooth – warm or cold.

“The Schenectady community has been nothing but welcoming, which is why we’re so eager to officially open our doors this week” said Sophia Hutchens, District Manager, Insomnia Cookies. “Bringing our freshly baked and warm cookies to downtown is an exciting opportunity to connect with both locals and visitors here in the Capital Region.”

The Ribbon Cutting will take place on Thursday, April 17 at 11:00 AM, in partnership with Metroplex, the Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation (DSIC) and Discover Schenectady, to officially welcome Insomnia Cookies into the Schenectady community. The Grand Opening will take place on Saturday, April 19, from noon until 3am.

“Jay Street really is the ideal destination in the Capital Region for Insomnia Cookies,” said Todd Garofano, Executive Director of Discover Schenectady.  “It’s fun branding combined with a quality product and that is a perfect fit for our growing downtown.”

On Saturday, April 19, Insomniacs who visit the new Schenectady store and sign-up for Insomnia Rewards* will receive 1 FREE Classic cookie (no purchase required) in-store. For more information on Insomnia Cookies, please visit www.insomniacookies.com.

*For new Insomnia Rewards members – Customers can sign up online or in the app. Customers will need to enter their mobile number, first and last name and email address to create an account. Inside Insomnia Rewards, customers will be able to easily track their points status, redeem available rewards, access their surprise offers and easily reorder their favorite menu items.

About Insomnia Cookies
Insomnia Cookies is a rapidly expanding late-night bakery concept headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. Founded at the University of Pennsylvania by then-student Seth Berkowitz, Insomnia Cookies has been feeding the insatiable hunger of loyal Insomniacs since 2003. Today, with more than 300 locations nationwide, Insomnia Cookies offers a wide variety of delicious cookies, ice cream, and other sweet treats in-store, for local delivery, and nationwide shipping. Details about Insomnia’s menu, delivery, and nationwide shipping options can be found here (late-night delivery until 1 a.m. or later). To place an order or learn more about Insomnia Cookies, visit www.InsomniaCookies.com. Keep up-to-date on the latest cookie news and grand opening deals by following Insomnia Cookies on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

Media Contact:
Lisa Karmin
Hudson Blue PR
lisa@hudsonbluepr.com

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. — Schenectady County officials and Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara today released an engineering report on the status of the Museum of Innovation and Science (miSci) building in Schenectady. The report was prepared by C2 Design Group in collaboration with Terracon, Ryan Biggs/Clark Davis Engineering, M/E Engineering, Engineering Ventures, and TW&A Construction Management. Metroplex, Schenectady County’s lead economic development agency, provided $77,930 in funding for the study.

Previous museum leadership expressed concerns that heavy rains had caused pressure to build up under the museum’s basement, threatening its collections. It was also suggested that the high-water table in the area might make the current structure unsuitable for museum use. In April 2024, Schenectady County issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to engineering firms for a comprehensive review of the miSci building, to determine the most cost-effective ways to improve the structure, enhance the museum experience, and protect miSci’s extensive collections and archives.

“The County put together a great team of experts to review the miSci building and develop a plan for its future,” said Gary Hughes, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “I’m confident that with a solid plan in place and working closely with miSci’s new leadership team, including Acting President Chris Hunter and Board Chair William Faubion, we are well-positioned to make the necessary repairs and upgrades to offer an enriched experience for the community while preserving miSci’s collections.”

The engineering study concluded that the building, constructed in 1969, is structurally sound. It also identified that a one-time water leak in the basement was caused by improper grading of the museum’s patio, which directed water toward the building instead of away from it—not the water table. The report recommends essential maintenance and system upgrades for the 56-year-old building, such as a new roof, updated HVAC systems, and interior improvements.

Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara secured $10 million in funding for miSci in the 2024-25 New York State budget to address critical infrastructure needs and support revitalization initiatives planned for the museum.

“miSci is more than a museum—it’s a gateway to science, innovation, and discovery for families, students, and visitors from across the region,” said Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara. “With this

$10 million investment, we’re not just making critical upgrades to the building—we’re strengthening the foundation for miSci’s continued growth and long-term success. This funding will help preserve one of our community’s most valuable educational resources, support expanded programming, and ensure that future generations have access to hands-on learning experiences in science and technology. As a STEM-focused museum, miSci plays a key role in inspiring young minds and fueling curiosity, and I’m proud to support its revitalization for the benefit of our entire region.”

The report provides cost estimates for needed repairs totaling $8.5 million. The balance of the funding can be applied toward an expansion of the first floor of the museum to accommodate more exhibits and items in miSci’s extensive collections.

“This study, along with the funding provided by Assemblyman Santabarbara, will ensure that this cherished museum remains a vital part of Schenectady County for years to come,” said Hughes.

Renovations can proceed once the museum board approves the report’s findings.

Planetarium and Mesmerica
Last year, Metroplex provided nearly $100,000 in funding to miSci for planetarium upgrades, including a new projector, sound system, and updated seating, all aimed at increasing visitation. This investment has enabled James Hood’s Mesmerica 360 immersive experience to be featured at miSci, with over 10,000 tickets sold since its opening in August 2024. New programming is currently being reviewed by miSci staff with additional programming announcements expected in the near future.

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. — The Board of Directors of the Schenectady County Metroplex Development Authority met this evening and approved six projects.

The first project involves the relocation of a company to Schenectady County. Gorman Construction, an All States Materials Group company, will lease space at 1473 Erie Boulevard across from Mohawk Harbor. A leading supplier of roadway construction materials with operations throughout the northeastern United States and Canada, the company will move 15 jobs to Schenectady with plans to add staff in the coming years.

Metroplex is providing a $45,000 grant to help with renovations to the office space.

John Cawthern, Area Manager for Gorman said, “We are excited about moving to Schenectady with an office that is located close to many downtown amenities including Mohawk Harbor.” The company has signed a long-term lease on the new regional office space.

“The office market is very competitive,” said Ray Gillen, Metroplex Chair. “We landed four new office tenants for downtown last year and we are pleased to welcome Gorman Construction to Schenectady County.”

The Board also approved the purchase of two parcels needed for the ALCO Heritage Trail Extension DRI Project. This project will help to complete a 4.4 mile River Loop Trail that connects both sides of the Mohawk River from the Western Gateway Bridge to Freemans Bridge. To complete this trail section, Metroplex will purchase 203 Front Street from Floyd Simone for $32,000 and 201 Front Street from the City of Schenectady for $10,000.

In another infrastructure project, Metroplex approved funding of $95,758 for improvements made to the “Five Corners” intersection in Rotterdam. Metroplex recruited ALDI to a site at the intersection that was vacant and blighted due to a fire at a former sporting goods store and a closed CVS. DOT mandated that improvements be made to the intersection before approvals could be granted. The improvements included a new westbound lane, new sidewalks, new pedestrian signals and crosswalks. This ALDI location provides a grocery option to the western portion of the Town of Rotterdam and the Broadway corridor and Bellevue neighborhoods in Schenectady.

Next, the Metroplex Board approved a $195,000 grant to Armory Studios NY to enable the facility to host sporting events as well as major exhibits and film/television productions. The historic building located in downtown Schenectady just off of I-890 has successfully hosted  HBO, Showtime and Amazon productions and is the region’s largest state certified sound stage. Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience and other recent exhibits have attracted over 130,000 visitors.

Now, Armory Studios NY is being equipped with new seating and flooring, scoreboards and other upgrades to host a wide range of sporting and entertainment events. The New York Phoenix play home games at the renovated facility attracting thousands of basketball fans to downtown.

“We thank Ray and Jeff Legere and the New York Phoenix for working with Metroplex and Discover Schenectady to outfit this great venue to host sports and special events which will bring more people to downtown and the lower State Street area,” said Ray Gillen, Metroplex Chair.

In another positive development for lower State Street, Metroplex will provide $125,000 to help transform 9,300 square feet of ground-floor space in the Frog Alley Brewing complex into “Simone’s Central.” This new facility will house a central kitchen and administrative hub to support Simone’s locations in Schenectady, Stuyvesant Plaza, Coxsackie, and other sites as the brand continues to grow. Once operational, Simone’s also plans to launch a new retail concept in the complex, offering Mediterranean-inspired tapas-style dining.

Bashir Chedrawee, co-owner of Simone’s Kitchen said, “There’s nowhere we’re more enthusiastic about anchoring our brand and operations. Our flagship location on Jay Street gave us the footing to grow – and our partnership with Metroplex gave us the confidence to keep building here. We’re thrilled to continue contributing to a community we love, and to a place we believe has the potential to be the economic leader of the Capital Region. As we expand across the region, Simone’s Central will grow with us – creating more jobs, nurturing local talent, and helping fuel the fresh energy of lower State Street.”

Metroplex also approved $45,000 in funding for two new stores on Jay Street next to Simone’s Kitchen – one is Connie’s Creative Collective, a maker’s space. An adjoining space called Connie’s Confectionary will offer ice cream and specialty baked goods. The two stores will be operated by the owners of Simone’s Kitchen.

“The team at Simone’s Kitchen has created one of the most dynamic new brands in the Capital Region and we are pleased to assist them with expanding their growing footprint in downtown Schenectady,” said Ray Gillen, Metroplex Chair.

Metroplex is the lead agency in Schenectady County’s unified economic development team. The Authority invests sales tax revenue it receives from the County in capital projects that benefit the community creating jobs, property tax and more sales tax that in turn is invested by Metroplex to continue economic development momentum in Schenectady County.

Governor Hochul today announced that the former St. George’s Masonic Temple located at 302 State Street in downtown Schenectady will be added to the National and State Registers of Historic Places.

Schenectady County Legislature Chair Gary Hughes said, “This iconic building located at the corner of Erie Boulevard and State Street literally sits at the crossroads of Schenectady County. We want to thank Governor Hochul for ensuring that this historic landmark is preserved and restored and remains a critical part of Schenectady’s revitalized downtown.”

Schenectady Mayor Gary McCarthy thanked the New York State Historic Preservation Office,  “The tax credits made possible by this designation will help us renovate the Masonic Building  preserving a landmark while adding to the revitalization of Schenectady.”

The Capital Region was New York’s third fastest-growing region for population in 2024, according to a Census for Economic Growth analysis of U.S. Census Bureau statistics.

Region Performance
Between July 1, 2023 and July 1, 2024, the eight-county Capital Region’s population increased by 5,314 (0.5 percent) to 1,115,663. Only the New York City (1.0 percent) and Hudson Valley (0.8 percent) regions had faster annual population growth rates. In terms of volume, the Capital Region had New York’s fourth greatest increase in residents, trailing Long Island (13,266), the Hudson Valley (20,186) and New York City (87,184).

County Performance
At 1.2 percent, Schenectady County had the fourth fastest population growth rate among New York’s 62 counties. Within the Capital Region, Albany County had the largest population gain at 1,964, followed by Schenectady County at 1,883 and Saratoga County at 1,487. Schenectady County was also the only county in the Capital Region with positive natural growth (90), with births outnumbering deaths.

Metro Area Performance
In 2024, the five-county Albany-Schenectady-Troy metropolitan statistical area (MSA) had a population of 913,485. That was up 6,262 (0.7 percent) from the previous year. Among New York’s 13 MSAs, that was the second largest increase in residents and the third fastest growth rate.

Net Migration
Driving the Albany-Schenectady-Troy MSA’s population growth was 5,572 in net international migration, meaning more people from outside the country moved into the metro area than those moving from it to destinations abroad. That marked a 20.8 percent increase in net internation migration from the previous year and was more than six times greater than it was in 2021.

The Albany-Schenectady-Troy MSA’s net domestic migration was 1,080 in 2024, meaning more people from within the country moved into the metro area than those moving out of it to elsewhere in the U.S. It was the only MSA in the state to experience annual net domestic migration growth. Out of 49 Northeast metros, the Albany-Schenectady-Troy MSA ranked sixth for net domestic migration.

Saratoga and Schenectady counties had the state’s first and second largest gains in domestic migration, at 983 and 970, respectively. Rensselaer (21) and Greene counties (2) also had smaller domestic migration gains.

About CEG
The Center for Economic Growth (CEG) accelerates economic opportunity in Albany/NY’s Capital Region by developing and implementing strategies to attract, expand and create businesses and jobs. As the regional economic development organization, affiliated with the Capital Region Chamber, CEG is a catalyst that works with partners and stakeholders to shape a vibrant, thriving future.

CEG houses the region’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Center, Manufacturing Solutions, which provides strategic guidance to small-to-middle sized companies in manufacturing and technology sectors. www.ceg.org.

Contact
James Schlett, Director of Communications and Research
518-431-1488| jamess@ceg.org

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. — Better Community Neighborhoods, Inc. (BCNI), in partnership with the Capital Region Land Bank and the City of Schenectady, announced today that applications are now being accepted from property owners and landlords for the Vacant Property Improvement Program (Schenectady V-PIP.). The goal of the program is to rehabilitate and transform vacant properties into safe and affordable rental housing.

Late last year, New York State Homes and Community Renewal (NYS HCR) awarded $3.75 million to Schenectady to assist with property renovations in support of new housing.

Matthew Nelson, CEO of BCNI said, “We are pleased to launch this exciting opportunity to create new quality affordable housing for our residents, and we thank New York State HCR for providing the grant funding to make this possible.”

“The Land Bank is pleased to join this effort to create more housing opportunities in Schenectady,” said Richard Ruzzo, Land Bank Chair and Deputy Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “As Schenectady continues to grow, we need quality housing to support that growth, and this new program will help turn vacant space into new homes for our residents.”

Mayor Gary McCarthy said, “We thank Governor Hochul for providing this funding to expand the availability of much needed affordable housing in creative ways, by repurposing vacant residential and commercial space.”

The new program offers financial assistance of up to $75,000 for each apartment that is renovated according to program guidelines. The goal is to transform vacant property and expand the availability of much-needed quality affordable housing for low- and moderate-income city residents.

The program offers two award options: a Standard Award of up to $50,000 per unit and an Enhanced Award of up to $75,000 per unit. All assistance from the program comes with the requirement that property owners rent to income-qualified individuals or households and maintain affordable rents for a 10-year period. Eligible properties include residential buildings with one to five residential units and mixed-use buildings with up to five residential units, or other vacant property eligible for conversion that results in the creation of no more than five residential rental units. Funds provided through the Schenectady V-PIP cover essential rehabilitation work to ensure units meet housing standards.

Property owners retain full ownership and management responsibilities while receiving support from BCNI throughout the rehabilitation process. This initiative not only improves the appeal and value of individual properties but also adds to the overall revitalization of Schenectady’s housing market.

Interested property owners are encouraged to apply. Applications will be accepted and funds awarded on a rolling basis until all Schenectady V-PIP funds have been awarded or exhausted. For more information and to obtain an application, contact BCNI at 518-372-7616 or vrp@bcnihousing.org.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that GE Vernova has committed to investing at least $96 million into the company’s Advanced Research Center in Niskayuna, Schenectady County. The company plans to create 75 new jobs on-site, strengthening the Center’s electrification and decarbonization efforts, while advancing transformative technologies including carbon dioxide removal, alternative fuels for power generation and developing the grid of the future. Today’s announcement will support technological advancements that reduce emissions and drive New York State toward a future where clean energy not only boosts the state’s economy, but also reflects the State’s shared commitment to sustainability and opportunity.

“The clean energy future is bringing new investments, good-paying jobs and a cleaner environment to our state, and we’re proud to work alongside GE Vernova as we further our shared vision in Niskayuna and beyond,” Governor Hochul said. “New York is becoming a leading manufacturing and R&D hub for clean energy; bringing us closer to achieving our climate agenda and building a better, cleaner future for generations to come.”

The company has committed to investing at least $96 million and plans to build two new state-of-the-art laboratories focused on electrification and decarbonization, expand existing facilities, and rehabilitate two other buildings at the on-site Renewable Learning Center in support of its clean energy research and development efforts. The company has committed to creating at least 75 new full-time jobs at the Advanced Research Center. Empire State Development has agreed to provide up to $9.635 million in performance-based Excelsior Jobs Program tax credits to support GE Vernova’s job creation effort. Additionally, Schenectady County Metroplex Development Authority has been invited to pursue FAST NY grant funding to support future on-site infrastructure projects.

GE Vernova Advanced Research Vice President David Vernooy said, “GE Vernova is committed to strengthening its world class research and development center designed to advance the world’s progress in the energy transition, continuing our long history of innovation here in the Capital Region. This investment aims to enable game changing technologies through state-of-the-art labs, a new customer experience center, and collaboration space to advance partnerships with governments, customers, thought leaders and innovators alike. We are ready to lead, and excited about the breakthroughs this investment will bring forward.”

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State continues to invest in the companies, technologies and jobs of the future to promote sustainable economic growth. GE Vernova’s Advanced Research Center has a rich history of next-generation developments, and the investments announced today will create new jobs and support new solutions to complex challenges that further the Capital Region’s legacy of innovation.”

GE Vernova’s Advanced Research Center in Niskayuna has a legacy of developing game-changing technologies, from gas turbines designed to be the world’s most efficient, to advanced algorithms for efficient and resilient grid planning, operations and maintenance, to small modular nuclear reactors and 100 percent hydrogen combustion for carbon-free power generation.

This project will support research and development efforts that advance new innovations and technologies in clean, sustainable and alternative fuels. GE Vernova will build a cutting-edge, premier laboratory space designed to drive down the energy use and capital expenditure of carbon capture, while developing and delivering fuels that will allow combustion without carbon. The company’s investment will also prioritize research into multi-terminal high-voltage direct current, a key to expanding the capabilities and functionality of the United States power grid of the future. It will also strengthen the ability to connect multiple sources of power generation to the grid. By driving advancements in clean energy technology, this investment will help reduce the cost of renewable power, making sustainable energy more affordable and accessible for both consumers and businesses.

Through the New York Power Authority’s RechargeNY low-cost power program, GE Vernova has been awarded 9,440 kW in return for its commitments to the State.

New York Power Authority President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll said, “General Electric’s legacy of innovation is closely tied to Schenectady County, and this $96 million investment will help ensure that clean energy jobs of the future remain here in New York State. With support from NYPA low-cost hydropower, GE Vernova’s expansion will help develop and explore new, transformative technologies that will help decarbonize our state and others, and strengthen our electric grid.”

Schenectady County Legislature Chair Gary Hughes said, “We are grateful to Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for their dedicated efforts that have resulted in this historic investment in GE Vernova’s Advanced Research Center. These transformative investments will create high-tech jobs, fuel economic growth, and strengthen our position as a hub for innovation. We thank our Metroplex team for collaborating with ESD and we are proud that GE continues to make substantial investments in Schenectady County.”

Niskayuna Supervisor Erin Cassady-Dorion said, “We thank GE Vernova for making this investment and commitment to Niskayuna’s Advanced Research Center. The Town will continue to work with State and County partners to move this project forward, and we thank Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for their efforts that were key in making this happen.”

New York State’s Climate Agenda
New York State’s climate agenda calls for an affordable and just transition to a clean energy economy that creates family-sustaining jobs, promotes economic growth through green investments, and directs a minimum of 35 percent of the benefits to disadvantaged communities. New York is advancing a suite of efforts to achieve an emissions-free economy by 2050, including in the energy, buildings, transportation and waste sectors.

Additional news available at www.governor.ny.gov
New York State | Executive Chamber | press.office@exec.ny.gov | 518.474.8418
Sign up for updates from the Governor’s Office: ny.gov/signup | Text NEW YORK to 81336

SCHENECTADY, N.Y.  – Discover Schenectady announced today that the New York Phoenix basketball team will be holding tryouts for its upcoming season this Saturday, January 4 from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. at Armory Studios NY in downtown Schenectady. Schenectady County was proud to be selected recently as the new home for The Basketball League’s (TBL) New York Phoenix who will play all of their regular-season home games, along with post-season games, at Armory Studios NY.

Media are welcome to attend Saturday’s tryouts for interviews/photos/video.

Players who want to realize their hoop dreams can register for tryouts now at the New York Phoenix website at nyphoenixbasketball.com or by contacting Head Coach Trevis Wyche directly at coachwyche@nyphoenixbasketball.com. Pre-registration fee is $125 or $150 at the door Saturday.

Phoenix hopefuls on Saturday will all be competing on a newly installed basketball court that came to Schenectady from Paris, France’s Accor Arena where it was used for a pair of NBA Global Games in 2023 and 2024. The NBA Global Games are a series of games featuring NBA teams that are played outside of the United States and Canada.

Those that make the cut on Saturday will have a chance to join an already exciting Phoenix roster that includes recently signed 6’ 8” forward-center Mustapha Traore, along with 6’ 5” guard-forward Josh Montgomery, 6’ 8” forward-center Quadir Welton and 6’8” guard-forward-center Arsenio Arrington. Training camp is scheduled to begin on February 17 with final roster announcement on February 21.

The first Phoenix home game is set for Friday, February 28 and home games against the Albany Patroons are already locked in for Thursday, March 13 and Friday, April 4. Doors open at 6 p.m. with game time at 7 p.m.

General Admission season tickets are on sale now at nyphoenixbasketball.com and courtside season tickets can be purchased by calling (518) 901-6443 or reaching out to tickets@nyphoenixbasketball.com. Complete schedule and single ticket purchases will be available soon.

All Phoenix home games will take place in Armory Studios NY’s impressive “Studio A,” a 30,000-square-foot, environmentally controlled space with a 50-foot-high trussed ceiling and expansive 150-by-180-foot floor space. Upgrades include the newly installed basketball court, seating for over 2,000 spectators, including over 125 courtside seats, providing an immersive fan experience.

These enhancements allow Armory Studios NY to host a wide range of sports activities including basketball tournaments, volleyball, pickleball and soccer on turf that can be installed over the basketball courts. Due to the impressive size of the 90,000 square-foot building, Armory Studios NY will continue to host film and television productions, as well as large exhibitions such as Van Gogh and others.

Free parking, including ADA-accessible parking, will be available for all Phoenix games.

Follow the team on Facebook here and Instagram here.

Photos and video of the New York Phoenix court can be downloaded here.

New York Phoenix logo and court rendering available for download here.

About the New York Phoenix
The New York Phoenix are owned by Phoenix Sports Management, a winning and experienced leadership team with deep TBL roots including former co-owners of the Albany Patroons who led the team to back-to-back Eastern Conference Championships in 2023 and 2024. CEO Rebecca Clifford, the Capital Region’s only pro sports team woman owner, is joined by Chief Strategy Officer Sam Clifford and Gameday Operations lead Paulie “Walnutz” Marquardt. The team is being led on the court by Head Coach and General Manager Trevis Wyche, a TBL All-Star and former Patroons point guard, who guided his team to a National Championship. For more information go to nyphoenixbasketball.com

About Discover Schenectady
Discover Schenectady is a non-profit organization responsible for promoting travel, tourism, conference and convention assets and opportunities throughout Schenectady County. Discover Schenectady inspires visitors to experience and enjoy that Schenectady County has to offer, from its vibrant communities with dining, entertainment and shopping to its gorgeous waterfront and outdoor activities. For more ways to Discover Schenectady County all year long, visit www.discoverschenectady.com