This mega-project will generate $42 Billion in economic impact over 30 years and deliver state-of-the-art life sciences to CUNY.
Construction of the CUNY Science Park and Research Campus (SPARC) Kips Bay projects are key initiatives to advance the LifeSci NYC goal of creating 10 million square feet of life sciences space, creating and attracting accessible jobs in life sciences, health care, and public health, and cementing New York City as a global leader in the sector. This NYC Eastside development, located at 455 First Ave, will replace the former and obsolete Public Health Lab with a new state-of-the-art life sciences hub. Demolition of the existing 455 First Avenue building is anticipated to occur in 2026, with construction beginning in 2027. SPARC Kips Bay passed the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP) and received City Council approval in February 2025. The transformation of SPARC will bring over two million square feet of academic, public health, and life sciences space to the community.
“The new SPARC campus will drive innovation and research for New York’s nation-leading life sciences ecosystem, ensuring that groundbreaking medical advances are done right here in this city,” Governor Hochul said.“Over the past four years, Mayor Adams and I have made bold strides to uplift New York City’s economy, create good-paying jobs for New Yorkers, address the affordable housing crisis head-on, and forge ahead with critical infrastructure projects — showcasing what can be accomplished through state and city partnership.”
Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York President Gary LaBarbera said, “The groundbreaking of SPARC Kips Bay marks a major step forward in strengthening our health care and life sciences infrastructure while creating thousands of good-paying jobs and long-term career opportunities for working-class people. By transforming Kips Bay into a state-of-the-art public health and education hub, this project will help solidify New York City as a leader in life sciences and provide accessible middle-class career paths to hard-working New Yorkers. We applaud Mayor Adams and Governor Hochul for their continued commitment to advancing projects that grow our economy, support our workforce, and improve the lives of all New Yorkers.”
Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine said, “SPARC will be a game-changer for Manhattan’s East Side, connecting innovative research facilities with job opportunities for the next generation of New York scientists and healthcare workers. This project will create thousands of jobs and establish our borough as a leader in life sciences for years to come.“
