Funding for redevelopment of current and former military facilities in New York State –
Defense against possible future downsizing of operations
ROME – State Senator Joseph Griffo and Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi announced today that they have secured $3 million in the 2017-2018 State Budget to help protect and enhance New York’s current and former military facilities, including Griffiss Business and Technology Park in Rome.
Within Griffiss, a portion of this significant funding will be used to strengthen and retain the Air Force Research Laboratory at Rome, the Defense Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS), and the Eastern Air Defense Sector (EADS), Senator Griffo and Assemblyman Brindisi said.
By safeguarding the military assets in our region and New York State against any potential future actions that could jeopardize or downsize these operations, this funding will help ensure that thousands of jobs are maintained in the Mohawk Valley while these installations continue to benefit our economic, academic and national security interests, the legislators said.
The exact funding amount allocated specifically for Griffiss will be determined in the near future, since the $3 million will be split among other military bases that include Fort Drum, Fort Hamilton and the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station, Senator Griffo and Assemblyman Brindisi said.
Senator Griffo said: “Ever since I began my career in public service first as Mayor of Rome, I have never let down my guard on the need to always appreciate and protect our military assets in the Mohawk Valley. The operations within Griffiss play a very significant role in strengthening the defense of our nation, while also anchoring an important economic presence in our region, including the many people who work and travel every day at the Business Park. Once again, this funding reaffirms the state’s commitment to maintaining the important initiatives and projects that occur within Griffiss, so that this military facility will remain a strong force in the progress of our region for years to come.”
Assemblyman Brindisi said: “The federal installations located at the Griffiss Business and Technology Park play a vital role in protecting our nation’s national security and provide a tremendous economic benefit to the region. From unmanned aerial research to making sure our warfighters on the battlefield are equipped with the latest technology, to keeping critical institutions at home safe from cyber-attacks, the workers and contractors in Rome are at the forefront of keeping our nation safe. It is only fitting that New York State recognizes the importance the Air Force Research Laboratory, DFAS, EADS, and their workers provide our state’s economy, and invests in their long-term sustainability in Rome.”
Rome Mayor Jacqueline Izzo: “It is incumbent upon the political leaders of this region to always remain vigilant in the defense of the Air Force Research Laboratory, DFAS, and EADS. Together, they drive the economic vitality of the region, and more importantly, they are vital partners in our nation’s defense. We are grateful that the State of New York and our local representatives, Senator Griffo and Assemblyman Brindisi, continue to recognize their importance to the growth and stability of the Griffiss Business and Technology Park. This funding will support the missions at Griffiss as well as help to protect the more than 4,000 jobs at the Park.”
Mary Carol Chruscicki, Executive Director of the Central New York Defense Alliance, said: “Senator Griffo and Assemblyman Brindisi continue to step forward for the Mohawk Valley region and provide unwavering support for Rome Lab, EADS, and DFAS, all located at the Griffiss Business and Technology Park. They truly understand the importance of New York’s military facilities to our economy and our nation’s security. Each organization is unique in the capabilities they provide, but collectively they support nearly 3,000 jobs and drive the development of the Mohawk Valley’s high-tech business base, expansion of our academic programs and growth of our supporting businesses.”
Chruscicki noted the importance of recognizing that the Air Force Research Laboratory Information Directorate’s work in command, control, communications, computing (Quantum and Nano), cyber and intelligence are critical to the safety of our warfighters and our homeland. The energy and innovation from the cutting-edge work being done in Rome generate more than $1.2 billion in revenue and fosters the next generation of entrepreneurs and world-class leaders, while also enabling new initiatives with the New York Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Test Sites at the Griffiss International Airport.
