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Infrastructure, Housing, and Sustainability: The Roadmap from HIA-LI’s Annual Meeting

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More than 400 business, government, and non-profit leaders attended HIA-LI’s 47th Annual Meeting and Legislative Program.

On January 17, 2025, HIA-LI hosted its 47th Annual Meeting and Legislative Program, bringing together over 400 business leaders, elected officials, and dignitaries to discuss pressing issues and opportunities for Long Island’s economic growth. As I stood before this incredible audience, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of pride in how far we’ve come as a community and how determined we are to overcome the challenges ahead.

The event underscored the vital role HIA-LI plays in advocating for our members, connecting stakeholders, and driving meaningful action for the region. With leaders like Congressman Nick LaLota, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, Suffolk County Presiding Officer Kevin McCaffrey, Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter, and Huntington Town Supervisor Ed Smyth contributing to the dialogue, we demonstrated that collaboration between government and business is the foundation for Long Island’s prosperity.

The discussion was expertly guided by Joe Campolo, Managing Partner at Campolo, Middleton & McCormick, LLP, an HIA-LI board member, and Chair of our Long Island Economic Development Task Force. Joe’s skillful moderation ensured that key issues were explored in depth while keeping the conversation engaging and solution-focused.

Building a Business-Friendly Environment

The theme that resonated throughout the meeting was the critical need to create a more business-friendly Long Island. Congressman LaLota addressed the ongoing efforts to increase the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap, emphasizing how this federal tax relief is essential for sustaining businesses and families in one of the most highly taxed regions in the nation.

At the local level, County Executive Romaine highlighted Suffolk County’s focus on infrastructure investments, including sewer expansion—a linchpin for economic development. Supervisors Carpenter and Smyth echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of keeping businesses here and enabling growth through infrastructure support. Presiding Officer McCaffrey added his perspective on the importance of workforce development programs to ensure Long Island remains competitive. The unified message was clear: Long Island must continue to fight for its fair share of federal and state funding to maintain its position as an economic engine.

Infrastructure as the Cornerstone of Progress

One of the key takeaways from the meeting was the critical importance of infrastructure development, especially in areas like sewer systems, transportation, and clean water initiatives. As the second-largest industrial park in the nation, the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge (LI-IPH) is a cornerstone of our regional economy, contributing over $13 billion annually. Yet, the lack of adequate sewer systems throughout the bi-county region remains a significant barrier to attracting new businesses and housing opportunities.

The urgency of addressing this was underscored by multiple leaders. Supervisor Smyth reminded us that “sewers are everything,” illustrating the environmental and economic consequences of outdated systems. Both Romaine and Carpenter stressed the need for careful, long-term planning to ensure that infrastructure projects like sewers, roadways, and renewable energy initiatives align with Long Island’s growth trajectory. These investments are not just critical for businesses but for the overall quality of life for residents.

Housing: A Challenge and an Opportunity

Housing emerged as another pivotal issue—one directly tied to workforce retention and economic vitality. The consensus was clear: Long Island needs more affordable housing to prevent the exodus of young professionals and families. In Islip, projects like TRITECH’s Shoregate in Bay Shore and the proposed housing at Pilgrim State exemplify how transit-oriented development can revitalize communities and create sustainable growth.

However, as Supervisor Carpenter pointed out, housing projects cannot succeed without the infrastructure to support them. Presiding Officer McCaffrey highlighted the need to balance housing development with the preservation of Long Island’s unique suburban character, ensuring that growth is sustainable and community focused. The call to action for state and federal partners was loud and clear—Long Island needs the resources to build not just homes but the roads, sewers, and public transit that make those homes viable.

Sustainability: A Forward-Thinking Priority

Environmental sustainability was another key focus. With Long Island’s unique position as a sole-source aquifer region, preserving water quality and managing waste are non-negotiable priorities. As landfill closures like Brookhaven’s loom, waste management has become a critical issue requiring regional solutions. Romaine, Carpenter, and Smyth emphasized the importance of recycling innovation and leveraging state resources to address these challenges.

HIA-LI is proud to support initiatives like the Suffolk County solar program and workforce development programs that integrate sustainability into our economic goals. These efforts align with our broader mission to ensure that Long Island’s growth is both responsible and forward-looking.

The Path Ahead: Action and Advocacy

As we move into 2025, our focus at HIA-LI is clear: continue building partnerships, amplifying the voice of Long Island businesses, and driving solutions for critical issues like infrastructure, housing, and sustainability. We are not just advocating for change—we are actively working with government and private sector leaders to implement it.

This year, we’ll host programs like the Workforce Development Summit and the Women’s Leadership Conference, fostering opportunities for innovation and collaboration. We’re also committed to expanding our footprint, with a 15 percent membership increase in 2024 already strengthening our collective voice.

To every business owner, elected official, and community leader who attended the meeting: thank you for being part of the conversation. Your engagement is what makes our work possible. Together, we can make 2025 a banner year for Long Island, one that sets the standard for economic resilience and community growth.

Let’s keep the momentum going. If you’re not already involved, I encourage you to join us. Let’s advocate louder, collaborate stronger, and ensure that Long Island’s best days are ahead.

Fostering Economic Growth and Efficiency: Why Long Island’s Largest B2B Trade Show on May 23 is More Than Just an Event

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I am extremely proud of the role HIA-LI plays in bolstering Long Island’s $200 billion economy through our annual Business-to-Business Trade Show and Conference. This event isn’t just a gathering; it’s a dynamic forum for vital economic discussions and a catalyst for business collaboration. Each year, we witness how this trade show has evolved into an influential platform where businesses come together not only to showcase their offerings but to engage in meaningful dialogues about innovation, efficiency, and profitability.

It’s about more than just networking — it’s about empowering businesses to reimagine their branding, streamline their operations, and enhance their market presence. This year, as we host our 36th annual trade show on Thursday, May 23, at the Suffolk Credit Union Arena at Suffolk County Community College in Brentwood, we continue our commitment to advancing these critical conversations.

With over 250 exhibitors from diverse sectors such as technology, manufacturing, and healthcare, we are setting the stage for over 4,000 business professionals, including decision-makers, upper management, and industry leaders, to discover new products and services, forge strategic partnerships, and uncover new avenues for growth. Our collaboration with Sands New York, returning as the Title Sponsor, underscores our dedication to integrating local businesses into the broader economic framework, facilitating a shared journey towards sustainable regional development.

Connecting Businesses and Creating Opportunities

As we move forward with preparations for this major event, our focus remains on creating a vibrant gathering that provides all participants with unparalleled opportunities to engage, learn, and succeed. It’s a platform for businesses to forge valuable connections, share insights, and work together to advance the region’s economy.

Our break-out sessions include two Sands New York procurement workshops that aim to connect local businesses with Sands staff, integrating local suppliers into their procurement process. It’s an incredible opportunity for regional businesses to access new opportunities and build lasting relationships.

Celebrating Innovation at the Executive Luncheon

I’m particularly excited about our Executive Luncheon, “Economic Development Projects Changing Long Island’s Landscape,” from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm. Moderated by Marc Herbst, Executive Director of the Long Island Contractors’ Association, this session will feature opening remarks by Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and Sands New York Senior Vice President Tracey Edwards.

Our distinguished panelists include:

We’ll discuss transformative projects like Shoregate in Bay Shore, Station Yards in Ronkonkoma, and Midway Crossing, also in Ronkonkoma. These initiatives, collectively, promise to reshape our region’s economic future by creating jobs, fostering growth, and enhancing Long Island’s appeal for young professionals.

Engaging Sessions and Networking

In addition to the luncheon, attendees can look forward to a full schedule of complimentary break-out sessions, including:

  • “From Retail to Revitalization: A Seminar on the Transformation of Smith Haven Mall”
  • “Expanding Your Network”
  • “From Clicks to Conversations, Strategies for Direct Response Marketing Success”

Plus, our morning and afternoon “Speed Networking” sessions will help participants make rapid-fire connections with other business professionals.

Industry Pavilions and More

Our special industry sector pavilions offer an added focus into key industry sectors:

We also encourage attendees to bring non-perishable food items for Long Island Cares, helping us combat food insecurity in Nassau and Suffolk counties.

Pre-Registration and Sponsorships

Pre-register for the event at www.HIA-LI.org to avoid the $10 same-day walk-in fee. For exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities, contact Anthony Forgione at aforgione@hia-li.org or 631-543-5355.

Let’s celebrate Long Island’s vibrant business community, make valuable connections, and explore new opportunities. I look forward to seeing you there!

Harnessing Innovation and Collaboration: The Key to Growth of the Long Island Economy

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The Executive Luncheon at HIA-LI’s 35th Annual Business Trade Show and Conference features projects of regional significance

Clockwise from upper left: Jimmy Coughlan, Jr., Vice President of Development at TRITEC Real Estate Company; Marc Herbst, Executive Director of the Long Island Contractors’ Association; Derek Trulson, Vice Chairman of JLL New York; and, Joe Campolo, Managing Partner at Campolo, Middleton & McCormick, LLP, and also an HIA-LI Board Member.

One of the necessities to the growth of the Long Island economy is the growth of innovative, transformative projects that not only create jobs but create places for our young professionals to live, work, and play.

That’s why the Executive Luncheon program at HIA-LI’s 35th Annual Business Trade Show and Conference featuring projects of regional significance should be on your calendar.

Our highly anticipated annual trade show – taking place on Thursday, May 25, from 9:00am to 3:00pm at the Suffolk Federal Credit Union Arena at Suffolk County Community College in Brentwood – is brought to you in partnership with our Title Sponsor, Sands New York. It’s a unique opportunity to network, learn, and collaborate with some of the most influential figures in our vibrant business community.

The Executive Luncheon, scheduled from 11:30am to 1:30pm, is designed to provide an insightful exploration of regionally significant Long Island projects that have the potential to substantially invigorate our local economy. The session will be moderated by Marc Herbst, Executive Director of the Long Island Contractors’ Association, a highly respected figure in the business community.

Our panelists include Derek Trulson, Vice Chairman of JLL New York; Jimmy Coughlan, Jr., Vice President of Development at TRITEC Real Estate Company; and Joe Campolo, Managing Partner at Campolo, Middleton & McCormick, LLP, who also serves as an HIA-LI Board Member. A representative from Sands New York will also be joining the panel, adding to the diversity and depth of the discussion.

One of the key projects to be discussed will be Midway Crossing. This transformative initiative has been declared a “Project of Regional Significance” by the Long Island Regional Planning Council, promising an estimated annual economic benefit of $3.3 billion. This includes increased wages, tourism, tax revenue, and more, all of which will significantly bolster the surrounding communities and have far-reaching impacts across Long Island and beyond.

We’ll also be discussing two TRITEC projects: Shoregate and Station Yards. With Bay Shore undergoing a revitalization that is rapidly gaining momentum, Shoregate is poised to bolster these efforts by fostering more “feet on the street” with 418 much-needed multifamily rental units within walking distance of Main Street and the LIRR. Station Yards, in Ronkonkoma, right across from the LIRR, will bring 1,450 new homes and 388 new apartments to the center of the island, plus 70,000 square feet of retail space and a village green of about 10,000 square feet. These are two of several live-work-play TRITEC communities that are attractive to our region’s young talent, helping us to keep them here on Long Island and build our future together.

Our Title Sponsor, Sands New York, has recently embarked on a journey to develop a $4 billion resort and possible casino at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum site. This ambitious project includes outdoor community spaces, world-class live performance venues, and a broad range of entertainment programming. Their involvement in our event brings an exciting dimension to the conversation.

And of course, we will be discussing new developments and future plans for the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge, the largest business park in the northeast.

The main event, Long Island’s largest business-to-business trade show, will showcase over 250 exhibitors representing a diverse array of Long Island business sectors. Anticipated attendance exceeds 4,500 business professionals from Nassau and Suffolk counties and beyond, with three-quarters of these attendees being upper-management decision-makers. It has consistently demonstrated its incredible impact on regional businesses over the years. The power of in-person interaction facilitates valuable relationships, generating fresh business ideas and leads, sparking innovation. I am confident that this year will be no exception.

Pricing for the Executive Luncheon is $55 for members and $70 for non-members. Pre-registration is required – please call 631-543-5355 or visit www.hia-li.org. Pre-register for the trade show to avoid the $10 same-day walk-in fee. The day also features a morning motivational seminar by internationally renowned author and speaker Kevin L. McCrudden, available at $25 for members and $40 for non-members.