Senator Fahy’s Statement on 2025 State of the State Address

ALBANY, N.Y. – Senator Patricia Fahy (D—Albany) released the following statement today following Governor Hochul’s State of the State address:

“Today’s State of the State address proposed a bold, game-changing vision that represents a turning point for our Capital City and broader Capital Region and will reverberate for years to come. Recognizing Albany’s unique position as the seat of our state government and core of our Capital Region, this unprecedented $400 million commitment includes $200 million to uplift and revitalize historic downtown Albany, $150 million to reinvigorate and enhance the exhibits and experience at the New York State Museum after years of advocacy, and targeted funding to address public safety concerns and combat crime that continues to be top of mind for so many of our neighbors.

To build on our multi-year effort to reconnect downtown Albany with the Hudson River, $35 million will lay the groundwork for completing the next phase of the Reimagining I-787 study, ushering in a once-in-a-generation infrastructure investment that will create jobs and alter the face of our region for decades to come. Finally, I’m pleased continued investment in the Albany NanoTech Complex means that our designation as one of three National Semiconductor Technology Centers will cement our area’s place as a national leader in AI and nanotechnology. 

Together, these announcements provide reason for renewed optimism in the future of our Capital City and will help build an Albany where our small businesses thrive and get ahead, where residents and visitors feel safe on our streets, and where workers and families can access meaningful economic opportunity to build a better life.

Amidst an affordability crisis that continues to see the cost of living and everyday goods rise while wages stagnate, I’m pleased that we’re proposing direct action to help New Yorkers afford the basics. Our lowest middle-income tax rate in 70 years, a proposed expansion of New York’s child tax credit, first-time homeowner assistance, and investments in free community college for those aged 25-55 studying in high-demand degree fields and workforce apprenticeships will have a noticeable impact on our workers and families. Given the Capital Region’s large percentage of state-owned property, I’m pleased to see the Governor propose $500 million to build 15,000 new homes on state-owned land—leading by example to build supply and lower the cost of housing."