Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams reveal the Science Park and Research Campus Kips Bay Master Plan, a transformative project set to establish a life sciences career and education hub in New York City.
Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams have announced the Science Park and Research Campus (SPARC) Kips Bay Master Plan, a groundbreaking initiative that aims to create a thriving life sciences hub in New York City. The master plan outlines key details of the project, including a new site plan, a unique model for education and job training, and updated economic impact projections. With the potential to generate $42 billion in economic impact and create over 15,000 jobs, SPARC Kips Bay is set to solidify New York’s position as a global leader in the life sciences industry.
1. Transforming the Landscape: The SPARC Kips Bay Master Plan envisions the transformation of a city block, with up to two million square feet of academic, public health, and life sciences space. The plan includes the revitalization of the Hunter College Brookdale Campus, creating a more public and inviting environment with active ground floor spaces, neighborhood retail, and public spaces for the community. The project aims to establish a unified plan that meets the needs of the campus institutions and the broader neighborhood.
2. Education and Job Training: SPARC Kips Bay introduces a unique model for education and job training, bringing together secondary and higher education institutions, industry partners, and public health institutions. This collaborative approach aims to create new career pathways in the life sciences sector through hands-on training at all stages. By connecting New Yorkers to education and job opportunities, the project seeks to bridge the gap between local public schools and careers in essential sectors such as life sciences, health care, and public health.
3. Economic Impact: The updated economic impact projections reveal that SPARC Kips Bay is expected to generate approximately $42 billion in economic impact over the next 30 years. The project is set to create 15,000 jobs, including 3,000 permanent jobs in the life sciences sector. By attracting accessible jobs and fostering innovation, SPARC Kips Bay will further establish New York City as a global leader in the life sciences industry.
4. Community Engagement: To ensure community input and involvement, the Hochul and Adams administrations have formed the SPARC Kips Bay Community Taskforce. This task force, co-chaired by Councilmember Keith Powers and Community Board 6, will facilitate a substantive partnership with local stakeholders, including elected leaders, civic advocates, residents, and community partners. The task force will play a crucial role in shaping and steering the project’s vision.
5. Workforce Development: The SPARC Kips Bay Education, Training, and Workforce Development Taskforce, convened by NYCEDC and the Mayor’s Office of Talent and Workforce Development, will collaborate with CUNY, the New York City Department of Education, the Office of Chief Medical Examiner, H+H, and other industry and workforce organizations. This task force will inform curriculum development and create new internship opportunities to support the industries at SPARC Kips Bay, leveraging the co-location of education and public and private industry.
6. Design and Future Development: NYCEDC has released a request for proposals for designers to engage in key aspects of the project’s first phase, including public space, community infrastructure, and a pedestrian bridge. Additionally, plans are underway to establish a Tech Forward Life Sciences Center at SPARC Kips Bay, inviting academic and research institutions to contribute to the growth and innovation of the life sciences industry.
Conclusion: The Science Park and Research Campus (SPARC) Kips Bay Master Plan marks a significant milestone in New York City’s journey to become a global leader in the life sciences industry. With its transformative vision, unique model for education and job training, and substantial economic impact, SPARC Kips Bay is set to create a thriving hub for innovation, job growth, and education in the heart of Manhattan. By bridging the gap between education and industry, this project will empower New Yorkers to pursue careers in the life sciences, health care, and public health sectors, ensuring that the future of medicine starts in New York.
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