Hochul Advances SUNY Downstate Modernization
Governor Kathy Hochul announced a key milestone in the $1.1 billion modernization of SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University Hospital, with approval of a construction contract to demolish a structurally condemned parking garage on campus.
The demolition clears the site for a new hospital annex that will include a state-of-the-art ambulatory surgery center focused on cardiology and oncology services in Central Brooklyn.
“Every New Yorker deserves access to high-quality medical care,” Hochul said. “Through the demolition of this out-of-service garage, the new hospital annex will be able to be built and real progress will be made in providing higher quality services and support for the Brooklyn community.”
Part of $1.1 Billion Modernization Plan
The project is part of a broader reinvestment strategy for the hospital under the State University of New York system. The full modernization plan includes:
- Infrastructure repairs and upgrades
- Conversion of double-occupancy rooms to private rooms with showers
- Expansion of the emergency department
- Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing rehabilitation
- Construction of the new hospital annex
The annex will expand ambulatory surgery capacity and enhance cardiology and oncology services.
SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. said the investment ensures continued access to high-quality care for Brooklyn residents.
Community-Driven Investment
The modernization plan follows recommendations from the Downstate Community Advisory Board (DCAB), which called for more than $1 billion in reinvestment.
State lawmakers approved $750 million in capital funding across the FY 2024-2025 and FY 2025-2026 enacted state budgets. SUNY will contribute an anticipated $50 million annually in capital allocations over the life of the project, bringing total investment to more than $1 billion.
Russo Development Enterprises, Inc., a Woman-Owned Business Enterprise, was selected through a competitive procurement process to lead the demolition. The project will operate under a project labor agreement and aims to maximize participation by Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises.
Health Equity and Workforce Support
State and local leaders framed the investment as both a healthcare and equity initiative for Central Brooklyn.
New York State Department of Health Commissioner James McDonald said the modernization would help ensure long-term access to high-quality care.
Union leaders, including Mary E. Sullivan of the Civil Service Employees Association and Wayne Spence of the Public Employees Federation, emphasized the importance of safe, modern facilities for healthcare workers.
State Senator Zellnor Myrie and Assemblymembers Latrice Walker and Brian A. Cunningham praised the project as a major investment in Central Brooklyn’s healthcare infrastructure and workforce.
Two Concurrent Projects
The modernization effort includes:
- Upgrading the existing hospital, including private inpatient rooms and expanded emergency services.
- Building a new hospital annex, anchored by a specialized ambulatory surgery center.
Updates on project progress will be posted publicly as implementation moves forward.
About SUNY
The State University of New York is the largest comprehensive public higher education system in the United States, with 64 colleges and universities serving approximately 1.7 million students across degree, continuing education, and outreach programs.
SUNY oversees nearly a quarter of academic research in New York State, with system-wide research expenditures nearing $1.5 billion in fiscal year 2025.
Originally reported by SUNY.
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