Archive: Business & Technology

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that optics manufacturer Rochester Precision Optics will expand its headquarters in the Town of Henrietta, Monroe County, adding more than 200 new jobs to the region. The company's growth will accommodate two new projects—the relocation of an infrared research and development company from Florida acquired by Rochester Precision Optics in May, as well as the addition of 20,000 square-feet at the facility to increase production across the company's plastics, glass, coating, diamond turning and IT divisions. During the expansion, Rochester Precision Optics will retain the 275 jobs currently held at the John Street site.

"By actively engaging with the private sector and incentivizing growth, companies like Rochester Precision Optics continue to expand their operations in New York, strengthening regional economies and creating good-paying jobs across the state," Cuomo said. "This expansion project is a testament to the unique assets of the Finger Lakes and to the Finger Lakes Forward plan which is fostering innovation and transforming the region."

The planned expansion is being supported through a $1 million Finger Lakes Forward Upstate Revitalization Initiative Grant, and up to $2 million through the Excelsior Tax Credit Program in exchange for job creation commitments. The project is expected to be completed in late 2021. Monroe County and Greater Rochester Enterprise also assisted with this project. The total project cost is more than $20.4 million.

Rochester Precision Optics began as the Optics Group at Kodak's former Hawkeye manufacturing plant. In 2005, the business was purchased from Kodak and moved to the current facility in the Town of Henrietta. The company designs and manufactures high precision lenses and optic systems and more recently, has been expanding in the infrared products market including thermal imaging, medical devices and other equipment. The company offers a full spectrum of precision optical manufacturing including, Design and Engineering Services, Systems Integration, Optical Assemblies and Supply Chain Management and Overseas Sourcing among several other services.

Randy Shaw, President of Rochester Precision Optics said, "We are truly delighted to receive support from the State of New York along with the assistance and coordination from teams at Greater Rochester Enterprise, the Rochester Chamber of Commerce and the County of Monroe, in order to expand our operations locally. The Rochester area is a critical stronghold for optical science and innovation; support from New York State ensures that we will continue to innovate within the local optics community and keep Rochester manufacturing thriving."

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