The Orange County Partnership has announced that the Aden Brook Business Park in Montgomery is the recipient of a $462,000 FAST NY Shovel-Ready Grant. This funding, provided through a program initiated by New York State Governor Kathy Hochul and administered by Empire State Development (ESD), is designed to prepare sites for development and attract high-impact industries, including advanced manufacturing, clean-tech renewable energy, life sciences, and microelectronics.
Accelerating Economic Growth
The FAST NY Shovel-Ready Grant Program supports pre-development activities and infrastructure investments critical for attracting top-tier industries. The Orange County Partnership has actively worked with economic development partners to strengthen the region’s advanced manufacturing sector. By fostering relationships with national companies and consultants, the Partnership has positioned Orange County as a prime destination for tech-based economic development.
Aden Brook Business Park: A Vision for the Future
Aden Brook Business Park, situated on a 116-acre farm site in Montgomery, will feature multiple buildings tailored to advanced manufacturing uses, including life sciences, microelectronics, and clean tech. Given New York’s burgeoning semiconductor industry, the business park is well-positioned to attract supply chain-oriented manufacturers.
Strategically located, the park offers:
- Proximity to Orange County Airport and major transportation routes like I-84.
- Access to innovation hubs and a highly skilled workforce from downstate New York.
- Connectivity to key supply chains between New York City and Albany.
Economic development officials envision Aden Brook as a vital bridge for supply chain connectivity, innovation, and talent access. Its neighbors include major companies such as Medline Industries, further enhancing its appeal.
Overcoming Challenges
The property spans the Village and Town of Montgomery, with 23 acres located within the village. Last year, the developer sought to annex the entire parcel into the village, aiming to simplify utility procedures and streamline tax-related processes. While the annexation was unsuccessful, the development continues to progress with the support of the FAST NY grant.
The $462,000 grant will cover essential pre-development costs, including:
- Consulting and related expenses
- Land-use approvals
- Engineering and site design
- SEQRA (State Environmental Quality Review Act) compliance
Community Impact and Leadership
Muller’s appointment reflects a commitment to leveraging local expertise for the benefit of the community. Her lifelong connection to Orange County and her demonstrated ability to drive growth and innovation ensure that her influence on the IDA board will be both impactful and forward-looking.
This milestone underscores the collaborative efforts of Orange County’s leadership. The project promises to create jobs, attract innovative industries, and generate tax revenue, benefiting residents and strengthening the local economy.
Leadership Remarks:
Maureen Halahan, President and CEO of the Orange County Partnership:
“Winning the FAST NY Shovel-Ready Grant for Aden Brook Business Park marks an exciting moment for Orange County. This investment will unlock opportunities for advanced manufacturing and help us attract innovative companies. The impact will reverberate across the county, creating jobs, attracting cutting-edge industries, and solidifying Orange County’s position as a hub for dynamic business development.”
Bill Fioravanti, Executive Director of the Orange County IDA:
“The Orange County IDA is proud to have teamed up with the Orange County Partnership in submitting this grant application. These grant monies will help facilitate the development of our newest advanced manufacturing park, creating good-paying jobs and delivering tax revenue to the residents of Orange County.”
Steve Neuhaus, Orange County Executive:
“As Orange County Executive, economic development is one of my core priorities. I am excited by the potential to use this business park to recruit world-renowned companies to our community. This achievement is a testament to our commitment to progress, and I look forward to the positive transformation it brings to Orange County.”
A Path Toward Economic Innovation
The Aden Brook Business Park represents a forward-thinking approach to economic development, combining strategic location, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and strong leadership support. With the FAST NY grant, Orange County takes a significant step toward becoming a hub for high-tech industries and sustainable growth. As the project unfolds, it promises to serve as a model for how targeted investments can drive long-term economic prosperity.
