Once known for its industrial roots, Webster in Monroe County is now setting an example for how targeted public investment and private collaboration can drive lasting economic growth. By utilizing state funding, transforming former industrial sites, and focusing on rapidly expanding industries, Webster is reshaping its industrial sector and simultaneously increasing the value of both residential and commercial properties. The town’s approach—centered around a $9.8 million FAST NY grant and the redevelopment of the old Xerox campus—serves as a compelling blueprint for investors interested in Upstate New York’s real estate and infrastructure markets as 2026 approaches.
The transformation of Webster is anchored by the $9.8 million FAST NY grant, which is dedicated to upgrading the Northeast Area for Technology (NEAT) site, previously the Xerox campus and a brownfield location. This funding supports essential improvements such as road reconstruction, enhancements to the sanitary sewer system, and comprehensive electrical planning. These upgrades are designed to make the site immediately ready for development, offering 300 acres of land and over one million square feet of industrial space. As a result, Webster is becoming increasingly attractive to advanced manufacturing and logistics companies.
The positive effects of these efforts are already visible. Industrial vacancy rates in Webster have dropped to just 2%, surpassing many established manufacturing regions. At the same time, median home prices have climbed by 10.1% each year, fueled by improved infrastructure and state-supported revitalization. The NEAT site is also drawing specialized industries, including food processing and semiconductor supply chains, which depend on strong infrastructure for their operations.
Webster’s achievements are further supported by careful municipal planning. Through the Reimagine Webster Master Plan, the town has identified key areas as Brownfield Opportunity Areas, unlocking additional state resources for land cleanup and redevelopment. This strategy not only tackles environmental concerns but also aligns with New York State’s broader objectives to repurpose underused industrial properties.
Collaboration between the public and private sectors has played a crucial role. The $4.5 million NY Forward Program is revitalizing the Village Central Business District, introducing pedestrian-friendly features and commercial improvements that create a vibrant, mixed-use environment. Another example is the partnership with private developers to build the $650 million fairlife® dairy processing facility on the former Xerox campus. This major project is expected to create 250 new jobs and further establish Webster as a center for industrial expansion.
Webster’s plans for 2026 focus on continued infrastructure upgrades, such as modernizing the wastewater treatment plant and renewing the West Webster Hamlet. These initiatives are complemented by the upcoming 2027 Townwide Revaluation, which aims to ensure fair property assessments and maintain attractive tax rates for investors. Such forward-thinking measures are vital for sustaining Webster’s momentum as a leading destination for real estate and industrial investment.
The town’s progress reflects broader trends across Upstate New York. For instance, Rochester is evolving from a manufacturing-based economy to a diverse center for healthcare, education, and technology, with home prices well below the national average—presenting strong opportunities for equity growth. Similarly, Buffalo’s focus on clean energy and semiconductor manufacturing, supported by government funding, is fostering a parallel environment for industrial development. Like Webster, these regional centers are using infrastructure investment to attract high-growth industries while supporting residential expansion.
Webster’s approach to economic development highlights the impact of municipal investment and private-sector partnerships in creating lasting value. By focusing on ready-to-develop sites, environmental remediation, and strategic alliances, the town is not only revitalizing its industrial sector but also strengthening residential property values. For investors, Webster’s experience—along with similar opportunities in Rochester, Buffalo, and other Upstate areas—demonstrates that infrastructure-led growth, when aligned with market needs, can deliver significant returns in the years ahead.