Gov. Hochul Announce Nominations for Key Economic Development Posts  

In a major announcement for economic development in New York State, Governor Kathy Hochul announced Thursday nominations for roles at the Urban Development Corporation, Empire State Development, and the Department of Economic Development. Kevin Law will be nominated as a Director of the Urban Development Corporation and will be designated Chair of the UDC and Hope Knight will be nominated as Commissioner of the Department of Economic Development and President and CEO of Empire State Development.

“After the devastating impact the pandemic had on New York’s economy, we need the best of the best at the helm to lead our recovery,” Governor Hochul said. “With their extensive experience and diverse backgrounds, Hope Knight and Kevin Law are ready to lead New York’s economic development in communities and cities across the state and bring our economy back stronger than ever before.”

Law is a Partner and Executive Vice President at Tritec Real Estate Development Company where he is part of the leadership team and Chairs the firm’s Affordable Housing Team. Law has been the co-chair of the Long Island Regional Economic Development Council for the past ten years. His efforts are focused on revitalizing Long Island downtowns and increasing the amount of workforce housing in the region. Previously, Law was President and CEO of the Long Island Association (LIA) where he was a key strategist and advocate on all matters impacting Long Island and its business community.

Knight has served as President & CEO of Greater Jamaica Development Corporation (GJDC) since 2015. In that capacity she has advanced the economic growth, community-building, and sustainable real estate development that has immeasurably revitalized and strengthened the Southeast Queens region. She also serves on the New York City Planning Commission, as a Commissioner. Prior to leading GJDC, she was Chief Operating Officer of the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone overseeing over $150 million in investments, leveraging over $1 billion in private capital, and working on projects such as the East River Plaza, Potamkin East Harlem and the Victoria Theater & Hotel.

“We commend Governor Hochul for her nomination of these two outstanding business leaders. The Business Council of Westchester has had a long working relationship with Kevin Law and looks forward to working with Commissioner Knight,” said BCW President and CEO Marsha Gordon. “As a long-standing Executive Committee Member of the Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council, I especially look forward to working with Commissioner Knight to move New York’s economy forward in innovative ways,” she added.