Federal and state officials were at Binghamton University Wednesday to show their support for the groundbreaking of a new BU facility dedicated to research and innovation in technology.
According to a University press release, the facility, the New York State Center of Excellence in Small Scale Systems Integration and Packaging (S3IP), has a focus on microelectronics technology.
The center, which will cost $30 million and span 114,000 square feet, will connect with the University’s Innovative Technologies Complex’s (ITC) Biotechnology and Engineering science buildings off of Vestal Parkway.
State Senator Thomas W. Libous of Binghamton and Endwell Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo helped obtain the funding needed for S3IP.
‘I am happy to have played a role in securing funding for the construction of the Center for Excellence building at the Innovative Technologies Complex,’ Lupardo said. ‘This investment recognizes the central role Binghamton University is playing in the economic recovery of our area. Working with community partners, they are contributing to the development of a new economy through world-class research and workforce training.’
S3IP is one of six New York State Centers of Excellence, the others located in Buffalo, Syracuse, Albany, Greater Rochester and Stony Brook.
According to the press release, it is estimated that the building will provide a $15.9 million annual economic impact, while supporting more than 180 jobs per year in the region during its construction.
‘This building will solidify Binghamton University’s position as a world leader in small scale systems packaging,’ Interim BU President C. Peter Magrath said. ‘This facility will connect people and ideas, accelerate discovery in this growing field and develop further our commitment to partnerships with industry. The research, education and outreach of those who will be housed in this building will make a significant contribution to this region and to New York State.’
According to its official website, S3IP was established at BU in 2003 and received New York State Center of Excellence designation in 2006.
New York State Gov. David Paterson was also present for the ceremony.
‘It is vital that our state continues to invest in the necessary infrastructure for new economy research and jobs,’ he said. ‘I am pleased that construction for the New York State Center in Small Scale Systems Integration and Packaging is now underway ‘ I look forward to the many opportunities this new facility will bring to Binghamton University and the broader New York Southern Tier community.’
According to the press release, the building will meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards and have laboratory space, a symposium hall and offices that support the University’s ongoing and expanding industry partnerships.
‘Being designated as a Center of Excellence is a tremendous achievement for BU,’ Libous said. ‘It’s a testament to their innovation and talent. And now as we break ground on this new Center of Excellence Building, I’m really excited to see how research can bring about the next great economic opportunities for our area.’