Long Island, NY - April 1, 2014 - State Senator Ken LaValle is pleased to report he was able to secure state funding for two projects that will drive economic expansion for the region.  Senator LaValle said $60 Million will be provided for the Innovation and Discovery Center at Stony Brook University’s Research and Development Park and  $5 Million to Enterprise Park At Calverton (EPCAL) for the expansion of the existing sewage facilities.

The $60 million in the New York State Budget for the Innovation and Discovery Center  - the first building in Stony Brook University’s Research and Development Park – is designed to take advantage of the StartUP NY program.

“This is a project of regional significance,” said the Senator, who added “ I am grateful for the support of the Majority Leader Senator Skelos and the entire Senate Majority who recognized the importance of this project and how it will contribute to economic development opportunities in our area.  The Innovation and Discovery Center will be home to new companies who will develop, grow, and hopefully, locate their operations right here on Long Island.”

The Innovation and Discovery Center will accommodate companies in the industry sectors authorized by StartUP NY for Long Island campuses, including biotechnology, information technology, electronics, and advanced materials and processing — sectors that will drive the future economy of our region.

Senator LaValle was also successful in securing $5 Million for infrastructure improvements to EPCAL.

“I fought long and hard during this budget process to secure the necessary funding for EPCAL recognizing its regional impact on economic development.  The legislation passed last year by Assemblyman Thiele and I set the stage for the inclusion of $5 million in this year’s State Budget. With Assemblyman Palumbo’s assistance, we were able to secure the additional infrastructure funding that will help attract companies and create new jobs in our region.” said Senator LaValle.