Gov. Andrew Cuomo today announced approval of Binghamton University’s NYSUNY 2020 challenge grant proposal that rests on two objectives: construction of a $70 million, state-of-the-art Smart Energy Research and Development Facility and the addition of 2,000 students, 150 faculty and 175 professional and support staff to develop new and strengthen existing academic programs.
“About two hours ago, we were contacted by the governor’s office and told our plan was formally adopted and approved,” said Binghamton University President Harvey Stenger at a 1 p.m. news conference at the University’s Innovative Technologies Complex. “It was a long path to get here and I thank Donna Lupardo and Tom Libous because it was a team effort from day one.
“This starts the process for designing and constructing a new building in the area of renewable energy, as well as the addition of students, faculty and staff,” he added. “This will allow us to expand our academic programs and add new jobs. It’s quite exciting.”
Under the plan, Binghamton will receive $35 million in capital construction funds for the smart energy facility and be able to implement a rational tuition plan to support the hiring of new researchers and faculty, expansion of academic offerings and facilities, development of public/private research partnerships and expansion of technology development in high-tech fields.
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