Sunday, April 27, 2003

Editorial: Room to grow

A brownfield in Endicott that was once home to Union Forging is getting new life. And when Mayer & Son builds its 13,000-square-foot furniture manufacturing and restoration factory on the site, let us hope other businesses outside Greater Binghamton will pay notice.  

As in the North Street location, Broome County has several brownfields just waiting for development. This one came with financial incentives. Mayer is capitalizing on an economic development package that includes a low-interest federal loan, state tax breaks and cheap utilities from Endicott's municipal power. Once other businesses see the Mayer site thriving after its scheduled opening in October, perhaps they will step forward to make the commitment.

Although Binghamton is probably sorry to see the business go, at least it's staying in the community and the new factory brings the promise of 20 more jobs. Each payroll addition is a positive step for the local economy.

Although every community would like to attract new business, helping our existing business grow is also an essential ingredient in economic recovery.

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