A $100 billion semiconductor project in Central New York is charging forward — and with it, a new era of economic growth is taking shape.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced this week that the New York State Public Service Commission has approved critical infrastructure needed to support Micron’s planned megafab in the Town of Clay. The move clears the way for new transmission lines and substation upgrades that will power what’s set to become the largest private investment in New York history.
“Today’s decision marks a major milestone for the Micron project in upstate New York,” Hochul said. “This project is set to transform Central New York — and we’re moving quickly ahead with all due speed and deliberation.”
Thousands of jobs and billions in new economic output
The impact of Micron’s investment is massive. Over the next three decades, the project is expected to create:
9,000 new jobs at MicronOver 50,000 permanent jobs across the regionTens of thousands of construction jobs over the next 20 years
By 2027, the project is forecast to generate $9.5 billion in regional economic output annually, rising to more than $16 billion by 2041. Disposable income in the area is expected to jump by $3.3 billion annually by 2035, and state and local governments could see nearly $20 billion in new revenue over the next 30 years.
Micron’s new facility will also house the largest clean room in the country — more than 2.4 million square feet.
Building an ecosystem around advanced manufacturing
The project goes beyond just jobs. Micron and the state have launched a $500 million Community Investment Fund to support local quality-of-life initiatives, workforce training, and inclusive development.
That effort already includes:
A $15 million cleanroom simulation lab at Onondaga Community CollegeThe new Syracuse STEAM School, the region’s first technical high schoolHiring initiatives focused on veterans, small businesses, and local talent
Environmental safeguards are also part of the deal. Under the state’s Green CHIPS program, Micron has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving water reuse and recycling, and targeting carbon-free energy.
A model for tech-driven growth
Micron’s presence in Central New York positions the state to become a national leader in semiconductor manufacturing, with one in four U.S.-made chips expected to come from the region by the end of the decade.
“It’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity,” said Empire State Development CEO Hope Knight. “This project is building a stronger, more innovative economy for our state.”
New York is already home to over 150 semiconductor and supply chain companies, employing more than 34,000 New Yorkers. Under Hochul’s leadership, the state has continued to attract major tech investments from companies like GlobalFoundries, AMD, and TTM Technologies.
The PSC’s latest approval brings Micron one step closer to breaking ground — and Central New York one step closer to becoming a global hub for next-generation tech.
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