Governor Kathy Hochul announced the launch of a $450 million hospital annex at SUNY Upstate Medical, designed to expand health care services in Central New York. The Governor’s office stated that the project will feature an expanded emergency department and burn unit to accommodate the region’s growing health care demand.
Governor Hochul stated that the investment in a state-of-the-art facility at SUNY Upstate Medical aims to provide high-quality health and medical care for Central New York. The project, approved by the SUNY Board of Trustees and the state legislature, is intended to serve as a long-term health care resource for the region.
The funding, provided through the FY26 Enacted Budget, includes broad support for the project. SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. highlighted SUNY Upstate Medical’s history of medical expertise and its role in meeting the community’s growing needs. According to a statement from the Governor’s office, the funding will support SUNY Upstate Medical’s continued development as a leading health care provider and educator.
Dr. Mantosh Dewan, President of Upstate Medical University, acknowledged the support of the Governor and elected officials for the project. Planned additions include a new emergency department, surgery suite, ICU, and burn unit for Central New York. The design phase will be led by Cannon Design, a firm recognized for developing resilient hospital environments. The project also plans to work with MWBE and SDVOB subconsultants, aiming to meet or exceed participation goals of 15% MBE, 15% WBE, and 6% SDVOB.
Local officials, including senators and assembly members, have highlighted the project as an important investment in healthcare infrastructure for the communities they represent. They view the hospital annex as a long-term enhancement to regional health services.
As part of efforts to encourage local participation, SUNY Upstate hosted briefings for MWBE firms over the summer during the bidding process. Additional outreach is planned throughout the project, with updates to be made publicly available as the design progresses. The annex is intended to serve as a central component of health care services in Central New York.
