Photonics manufacturer Sydor Optics plans to build a new $32 million facility to expand operations and create up to 36 new jobs and retain 92 jobs.
The Chili-based company will construct a 100,000-square-foot building on Jet View Drive, close to its existing facility. The company, family-owned and founded in 1964, expects to be operational at the new facility by fall 2027.
“This project represents another big step for our company as we continue to grow to better serve our customers. This world-class facility here in Rochester is critical for our company’s future and we are incredibly grateful to Empire State Development and to all of our local economic development partners for their continued support,” said Sydor Optics president Matthew Sydor in a statement.
The company specializes in double-sided grinding and polishing, continuous pad polishing and CNC and laser machining. Sydor Optics said in its application that it acquired Vertex Optics, another local optics company, and plans to move Vertex’s operations into the new facility. The company plans to lease out its existing facility after relocating to 40 Jet View Drive.
The new facility project will receive up to $450,000 in Excelsior Tax Credit Program funding tied to the creation of 36 new jobs over the next five years.
“Sydor Optics’ decision to continue to grow its operations in Monroe County represents the importance [of] Governor [Kathy] Hochul’s commitment to innovation, and to the strength of the local workforce, backed by the region’s reputation as a global photonics industry leader,” said Empire State Development president, CEO and commissioner Hope Knight.
Sydor Optics applied for sales tax and mortgage recording tax exemption, as well as a real property tax abatement, for 40 Jet View Dr. with COMIDA earlier this year. The application for the new construction called for a modern facility with a park-like setting including a pond with walking track for employees. The exemptions approved total about $3 million.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Sydor Optics plans $32M expansion in Chili
