Capital Region has cause for celebration

The Times Union has recently published a number of exciting, but seemingly unrelated stories on new Albany-area projects.

The nation’s first wind turbine manufacturing center will bring 800 jobs to the Port of Albany.

The University at Albany’s $180 million Emerging Technology and Entrepreneurship Complex housing cutting-edge research facilities is nearly complete.

The world-class Wadsworth Center expansion is back in the state budget, bringing more than 1,000 new construction and health sciences jobs.

And most recently, Intel/ IBM committed to more than 100 jobs at SUNY Poly, which will itself be vying for a portion of a $37 billion federal semiconductor manufacturing fund.each of these announcements is cause for Albany and the greater Capital Region to celebrate. They signal a massive new wave of opportunity built from years of strategic planning and preparation by private industry, academic, government and economic development partners. These partners worked hard to create an environment primed to nurture and expand this investment.

We have dramatically revitalized our downtowns and invested in diverse housing opportunities and quality-of-life initiatives. As for talent, the Center for Economic Growth is poised to launch a targeted attraction campaign, and each new and expanding employer is developing meaningful and equitable pathways into these emerging, future-focused careers for local residents so this new wave truly lifts all boats.

It’s time to look at Albany through a fresh lens — marvel at this place we call home — and maximize the opportunities in front of us.

Sarah M. Reginelli

Albany President, Capitalize Albany

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