Medical imaging systems and non-destructive testing company Carestream will expand its film finishing operations at Eastman Business Park in Rochester, New York. The project is expected to create 70 new jobs over the next five years while retaining 47.

Phase one of the project will see the addition of 16,000 square-feet of space at its current location, with the potential for additional expansion opportunities. Additional upgrades will include the purchase of new machinery and support upgrades to the buildings’ utility infrastructure, dark rooms, packaging lines and the addition of a new wet lab.

David C. Westgate, Chairman, President and CEO said, “Carestream continues to be a leader in the medical and dental film markets. We are excited to be able to grow our team and invest in the Rochester area. Our team’s innovation and enthusiasm are a testament to Carestream’s dedication to provide the best products in our market segments. Carestream continues to march forward toward a strong, successful future.”

Empire State Development is providing up to $700,000 in Excelsior Tax Credits in exchange for the job creation commitments. The total project cost has been placed at a little more than $3 million. The renovation work is expected to get underway in May and be completed in the 2nd quarter of 2022. Monroe County, the City of Rochester and Greater Rochester Enterprise are also assisting with the project.

Empire State Development Acting Commissioner and President & CEO-designate Eric Gertler said, “Carestream’s decision to expand its film operations in the Finger Lakes is a critical confirmation of the region’s leadership in high-tech innovation. It’s also fitting that this global medical imaging company will continue to grow at Rochester’s revitalized Eastman Business Park, along with many other top companies, fueled by the area’s first-rate medical and healthcare industry talent.”

Matt Hurlbutt, president and CEO, Greater Rochester Enterprise said, “Carestream’s decision to expand film operations in Rochester, New York, to help serve the global market, underscores our community’s long standing leadership role in this industry. In addition to a highly-skilled workforce and unique infrastructure assets available at Eastman Business Park, our economic development partners at New York State, Monroe County, and the City of Rochester collaborated on a comprehensive incentives package to ensure Carestream expands here.”

Last fall, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced that Carestream would assist in the fight against COVID-19 by investing over $1.67 million to manufacture 135,000 face shields. The CARESTREAM Shield is currently being manufactured in Rochester and is available for purchase from select distributors and Amazon. The company was awarded $750,000 in grant funds from the state to help alleviate product shortages due to supply chain issues.