More than $51 million has been allocated to five projects across Upstate New York as part of the Focused Attraction of Shovel-Ready Tracts New York (FAST NY) grant program, Governor Kathy Hochul announced. The funding is intended to prepare sites for development and attract large employers, particularly in high-tech manufacturing. Administered by Empire State Development, FAST NY aims to diversify the state’s economy by supporting infrastructure improvements that encourage business investment and job creation.
Since its launch, the FAST NY program has awarded over $283 million to 34 sites throughout Upstate New York. An additional $100 million was secured in the FY26 Budget to expand the initiative.
“Through FAST NY, we’re able to promote manufacturing and bring in good-paying jobs to communities throughout New York State,” said Governor Hochul. “Companies like Micron, Edwards Vacuum, Chobani and fairlife want to come to New York because we have the hardest working individuals, and having shovel-ready sites makes New York State an international competitor for world-class companies to expand their operations here.”
The most recent round of awards includes:
– Oneida County: $32.36 million for infrastructure at the Triangle Site at Griffiss International Airport in Rome. This will improve utilities and support future development on an additional 160 acres.
– Webster Community Coalition for Economic Development: $9.8 million for upgrades at the Northeast Area for Technology site in Monroe County, supporting advanced manufacturing development on nearly 300 acres.
– Oswego County Industrial Development Agency: $8.1 million for utility work at L. Michael Treadwell Oswego County Industrial Park in Schroeppel, expanding available land near Micron’s facility.
– Broome County Industrial Development Agency: $500,000 for pre-development at Broome Technology Park focused on sustainability and attracting industries such as power electronics and life sciences.
– Greene County: $400,000 toward advancing shovel-readiness at Hudson River Commerce Park in Catskill through engineering studies.
Empire State Development President Hope Knight said these investments build an ecosystem that supports sustainable economic growth and job creation by partnering with local agencies.
Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. noted that FAST NY allowed Oneida County to offer a shovel-ready site for Chobani’s expansion project—one of the largest private investments in county history.
MVREDC Co-Chair Larry Gilroy said that approval processes are moving quickly thanks to state support through FAST NY funding.
MV EDGE President Shawna Papale highlighted Governor Hochul’s role in securing Chobani’s facility and emphasized how strategic investments are positioning the Mohawk Valley as a hub for advanced manufacturing.
New York State Economic Development Council Executive Director Ryan M. Silva commended Governor Hochul’s approval of these projects, stating it is critical to strengthen infrastructure statewide.
Chobani Chief Impact Officer Nishant Roy credited local leadership with making investment decisions straightforward due to regional innovation and resilience.
State Senator Sean Ryan described FAST NY as a smart investment aimed at long-term economic strength by preparing sites that attract manufacturers offering stable jobs.
The FAST NY program began in February 2022 with an initial commitment of $200 million; subsequent budgets added further funding. Grants cover pre-development activities and infrastructure needed by industries such as semiconductors, renewable energy, agribusiness, optics, logistics, and more.
For details or applications regarding FAST NY grants visit https://esd.ny.gov/fast-ny.
