Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the groundbreaking for the $20 million redevelopment of the Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe in Shoreham, Suffolk County. The 16-acre site is a U.S. National Historic Registered landmark and location of famed inventor Nikola Tesla's last existing laboratory. The Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe is envisioned as an international destination for visitors interested in Tesla's legacy and science, technology, and innovation. The project's $4.5 million phase one includes the construction of the Eugene Sayan Visitor Center and the demolition of approximately 110,000 square feet of unused building. Empire State Development is supporting the transformation of the historic site with $1.25 million in capital grants.
"Nikola Tesla's visionary ideas and inventions have served as a catalyst for scientific progress, and his lab stands as a testament to his innovative spirit," Governor Hochul said. "By preserving this historic site, we help ensure that future generations can learn from his achievements and be inspired to pursue groundbreaking discoveries of their own."
"Nikola Tesla's lab is a physical embodiment of the power of imagination and creativity to change the world," said Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado. "It is a living reminder of his contributions to science and technology, and by preserving this site, we can inspire future innovators to dream big and achieve great things."
Nikola Tesla was an inventor and electrical engineer whose life-changing discoveries include the alternating current (AC) power, the Tesla coil, hydroelectric power, the induction motor, and more. The Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe was established to transform Tesla's former lab into a hub that celebrates his innovative spirit and inspires the next generation of innovators. The center will offer tours as well as exhibits and educational programs that explore Tesla's groundbreaking work.
The redevelopment of the Tesla Science Center is a multi-phase project that includes the Eugene Sayan Visitor Center, a museum, science and education center, business accelerator and entrepreneur center, and the rehabilitation and preservation of Tesla's iconic lab. The Eugene Sayan Visitor Center will provide a dedicated space to showcase exhibits about Nikola Tesla's work and innovative approaches. It will offer exhibitions and programs both on-site and online, enabling visitors to discover Tesla's legacy through educational and interactive experiences. When complete, the Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe will be a world-class destination that will provide an immersive experience for visitors of all ages to learn about Nikola Tesla and his discoveries and promote science education to inspire the next generation of inventors, scientists, and engineers.
In addition to funding from ESD, Governor Hochul announced the Tesla Science Center was awarded $1.47 million as part of the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA)'s Small and Mid-Sized Capital Project awards. Those funds will support the stabilization and restoration of Nikola Tesla's last standing laboratory, designed by McKim, Mead, & White.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "Nikola Tesla's legacy serves as a reminder of the power of human ingenuity and the importance of scientific research in solving the challenges of the modern world. The Tesla Science Center will be a destination for visitors to learn of Tesla's inventions while inspiring future innovators to push the boundaries of what is possible."
Empire State Development Board Chairman Kevin Law said, "Redeveloping the Tesla Science Center is an investment in the future of innovation and progress. By preserving and building on Tesla's legacy, we are supporting new generations of entrepreneurs who will continue to drive transformational progress on Long Island and around the globe."
Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe Executive Director Marc Alessi said, "We are thrilled to see the groundbreaking for the redevelopment of Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe, but our work is not yet done. With the construction of the Eugene Sayan Visitor Center and the demolition of unused buildings in Phase One, we are moving forward towards our vision of transforming this historic site into an international destination for innovation and education. We encourage the community to continue to support us through volunteering and fundraising to help us realize our goal of inspiring the next generation of innovators."
New York State Council on the Arts Executive Director Mara Manus said, "NYSCA is thrilled to support the renovation of Nikola Tesla's historic McKim, Mead & White laboratory, a testament to creativity, experimentation and learning. This cultural center will inspire visitors from all over the world for lifetimes to come."
Long Island Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chairs Linda Armyn, Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer at Bethpage Federal Credit Union and Dr. John Nader, President of Farmingdale State College, said, "Nikola Tesla's lab is a testament to the power of science and technology to create a better world. The Tesla Science Center symbolizes humanity's boundless potential, and one the LIREDC is proud to both celebrate and to reimagine for the future."
State Senator Anthony Palumbo said, "Today's groundbreaking ceremony is an important first step in redeveloping Nikola Tesla's laboratory into The Tesla Science Center. This transformation will create a global research institute dedicated to advancing new technologies while preserving the legacy and pioneering spirit of Nikola Tesla. I would like to thank Executive Director Marc Alessi, Tesla's Board of Directors, Eugene Sayan, donors, and Governor Kathy Hochul for their tireless efforts, dedication and support in advancing this important project here on Long Island."
Assemblymember Jodi Giglio said, "The groundbreaking of the Tesla Science Center's new facility builds upon the groundbreaking work started by Nicola Tesla so many years ago. Be it fostering innovation or fostering education, the Science Center's continuing mission will inspire our future scientists to exceed and excel. I wish them the best in their future endeavors, and I look forward to watching their future unfold."
Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone said, "Today marks an incredible milestone for the Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe as they continue the work of honoring and celebrating the legacy of one of history's most influential and important inventors. It has been our great pleasure to support the efforts of this institution and the vital work they do supporting science education and attracting visitors from around the world to Suffolk County. On behalf of all County residents, congratulations to TSCW and we look forward to many great things to come from your incredible organization."
Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker said, "It is exciting to see the start of a new chapter for the Tesla Science Center. Thank you to the board, staff, and volunteers who are continuing the mission to make the center a place of learning for all to enjoy."
Town of Brookhaven Supervisor Ed Romaine said, "The Tesla Science Center is one of the most important, historical sites in the Town of Brookhaven and this groundbreaking starts the next phase of making it accessible to everyone. I am proud to support the efforts of the Board of Directors and staff who have been working for many years to remind us of what went on here and how it changed the scientific world view."
Town of Brookhaven Councilwoman Jane Bonner said, "I have been a proponent of this journey to create the Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe since day one and I am determined to help see this plan through to fruition. Prior to establishing the center, most residents were not even aware of the legacy that Tesla left for future generations to discover. I fully support the development of this site as a museum and learning center and I look forward to being here when it opens."
The Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe's strategic location in the heart of Long Island's research corridor, alongside world-renowned scientific institutions such as Brookhaven National Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, and Stony Brook University, presents exciting opportunities for the region's economy. The center is an important part of Long Island's tourism industry, attracting visitors from all over the world to learn about Tesla's life and work. New York State's investment in the restoration and redevelopment of Nikola Tesla's historic lab into a world-class museum and science center will create new jobs, generate revenue streams through tourism and education, and strengthen Long Island's position as a hub for innovation and progress.