Binghamton Area News Roundup 3/28/26: Battery Boost, ICE Policy & More
Chenango Forks falls just short of state title, BU gets $45 million boost, ICE policy is changing at the BC jail, a new DOT building opens, and more
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‼️Must-Reads
🔋BU Battery Project gets $45 million boost
Binghamton University will be getting $45 million in federal investments established by the Biden-era CHIPS and Science Act over the next three years for the second phase of the National Science Foundation Upstate New York Energy Storage Engine initiative (WBNG).
Binghamton's NSF Engine will prioritize next-gen battery systems with a focus on safety, efficiency and AI integration. The new $55 million AI Responsibility and Research hub at BU was announced last year. (Press & Sun).
🏚️Binghamton ranks 7th oldest housing market in the U.S.
A survey by Construction Coverage shows the Binghamton area has one of the oldest housing stocks in the country, with the average residence being six decades old (Fox40). Broome County's Housing Needs Assessment from January 2024 notes a significant need for more adequate affordable housing in the region.
🚓Broome Sheriff's Office changes ICE detention policy at Broome County Jail
Following protests (Pipe Dream), the Broome County Sheriff's Office announced a change to ICE detainee policy, not holding someone past their release time for immigration authorities without a judicial warrant (Fox40).
Sheriff Fred Akshar said the change is temporary, meant to address legal concerns and reduce potential liability, and that the county will still cooperate with ICE.
🏀Chenango Forks girls make state finals
The Blue Devils made it all the way to the NYSPHSAA Girls Basketball Class B state final game, falling just short at 65-60 against the Yonkers Montessori Academy Eagles.
Chenango Forks girls basketball have held the Class-B Sectional title for the past three seasons, but this was the first state title appearance in program history (WBNG).
