Binghamton Pharmacy School May Receive State Funding

The initial funding for a proposed Binghamton University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Pharmacy will be included in Governor Andrew Cuomo's proposed budget.

Senator Thomas Libous and University President Harvey Stenger say there's an agreement with the governor to set aside $10 million to start development of the new school.

The pharmacy school is expected to be located in Johnson City, close to Wilson Medical Center.

Libous says with Cuomo's support, he believes the project can be put on a "fast track." Libous, a Binghamton Republican, said the governor made it clear to him "that this is the real deal."

Stenger said the university's space in the town of Vestal is "very tight." That's why plans call for the pharmacy school to be built away from the main campus.

The total cost of developing the school is estimated to be $60 million. More funding would have to be lined up in future state budgets.

Stenger said the school could have as many as 300 students when the program becomes fully operational.

Binghamton still must receive approval from the State University of New York to move forward with plans for the pharmacy school.