New York Construction Report staff writer
Construction has started on the expansion of Tech Garden in downtown Syracuse. The project includes a two-story, 46,000 sq. ft. addition, renovations to existing space and updates to the on-site mechanical and security systems.
Tech Garden is home to the GENIUS NY competition, and work will include a 5,000-sq.-ft. roof terrace, a 3,000-sq. ft. meeting room, offices, an expanded hardware space for prototype and product development, and a new entrance.
Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon calls the project a game-changer.
“The transformational expansion of The Tech Garden space will serve as a visible reminder of the momentum underway not only in Central New York, but in downtown Syracuse proper,” he said. “This multi-million-dollar investment will help this already successful incubator to provide more opportunity and an even greater user experience for forward-thinking entrepreneurs who are looking to grow their business in the region.”
The expanded facility will serve as the anchor of Syracuse’s City Center Innovation Hub, a core component of the Syracuse Surge economic development strategy and will serve as the gateway to the “Innovation Alley” on Warren Street in Syracuse. This project will connect major assets like the Marriott Syracuse Downtown Hotel and Convention Center, while expanding the ability of the incubator to accept new businesses.
“Syracuse is a rising tech hub and this project will enable us to keep pace with that rapid growth,” said CenterState CEO and President Rob Simpson. “Furthermore, an expanded Tech Garden provides an opportunity to reimagine who we serve and how, and to broaden our reach and impact to drive more equity and inclusivity through the programs we offer.
“In addition to incubation, acceleration and support of tech startups, we will serve non-tech startups and small businesses run by founders from underrepresented populations.”
Empire State Development is providing up to $16.6 million for the project, which is projected to cost $32 million, through the regions’ CNY Rising Upstate Revitalization Initiative. Construction is expected to take 14 months.
“The transformational expansion of The Tech Garden space will allow the successful incubator to continue to create a more productive environment for entrepreneurs to grow and develop their innovative business ideas,” said Hope Knight, Empire State Development President Hope Knight. “New York is committed to the continued renaissance happening in downtown Syracuse, and this incredible new space will serve as an essential piece to those revitalization efforts.”
