Investing in Our Community for Long-Term Success

Workforce development is more than preparing people for jobs—it’s about creating a sustainable future where every community member has the opportunity to thrive. As Syracuse experiences transformative changes, like the arrival of Micron and the I-81 Viaduct Project, it’s critical to ensure these opportunities are accessible to all, especially the communities most impacted by these developments.

While projects like the I-81 Viaduct offer significant potential for job creation, we must look beyond short-term employment. By integrating workforce development initiatives with urban agriculture and community land trust (CLT) models, we can ensure that opportunities extend far beyond the project’s completion. This approach not only addresses immediate job needs but also builds long-term economic resilience by creating pathways for stable, meaningful careers in urban farming, green construction, and CLT management.

Many residents in the areas most affected by these changes feel overlooked and believe these opportunities are unattainable. To address this, we must develop training programs that equip residents with the skills to participate in projects like the I-81 Viaduct and beyond. These programs should include paid training, allowing participants to support themselves while learning and preparing for careers that sustain them long after these large-scale projects conclude.

Critics may argue against city-supported paid training, but the benefits far outweigh the costs. Investing in education and workforce development ensures that we reduce reliance on costly systems like incarceration while empowering our community to lead. These programs should span multiple years, ensuring that participants have time to acquire skills and certifications for long-term career success.

Additionally, we must ensure that local contracts and employment opportunities prioritize the communities most impacted by these changes. From job opportunities connected to the I-81 Viaduct to urban agriculture projects and CLT development, these initiatives must include clear commitments to equitable hiring and resource allocation. Partnering with large employers like Micron and engaging them in local workforce development efforts will further strengthen this vision.

This policy is about more than jobs—it’s about creating a legacy of equity, empowerment, and opportunity. By linking urban agriculture, CLTs, and transformative infrastructure projects, we can build a resilient, inclusive economy that provides for Syracuse’s most affected communities long into the future. Through partnerships, investments, and a long-term vision, we can ensure that no one is left behind as our city grows and evolves.