Startech manufactures a device known as a plasma waste converter, which uses ionized gas to convert waste materials into a usable byproduct. The company wants to convert a former Olin research building in Science Park into a "demonstration center," where Startech clients can learn to use the plasma waste converter, Longo said. He said the plans call for about 5,000 square feet. Startech officials sent a 10-point written proposal for the demonstration center to the Science Park board of directors on Wednesday. "I envision a scientific showroom," Longo said. If the board accepts the proposal, he said, the lease should be ready in "not less than 30 or 40 days."
Scientists consider plasma the "raw material" of stars. It is present in lightning bolts, the aurora borealis, fluorescent lighting and other places. Startech has sold its plasma waste converter to the U.S. Army and has contracts to provide devices for use in Taiwan, Japan and South Africa. Science Park President and Chairman Richard Grossi confirmed board members "have been in discussion" with Startech officials. Grossi declined to comment on specifics of the proposal before it is presented to the board. He did say an assembly facility "would fit nicely" into Science Park.
But Grossi also said any proposal would be scrutinized for its ability to provide "significant job opportunities" for the Newhallville neighborhood where Science Park is located. A growing international demand for plasma waste converters is propelling Startech’s growth.
On Tuesday, Gov. John G. Rowland dedicated Startech’s new 5,800-square-foot corporate headquarters in Wilton. Through a strategic alliance with Bauer-Howden Inc., Startech maintains a manufacturing operation in Bristol.
The search for a New Haven presence for Startech began in 1998, when company officials began seeking a 40,000- to 80,000-square-foot site for a factory and assembly facility. Startech officials had considered several New Haven sites including United Illuminating’s former English Station power complex on Grand Avenue.
Environmental concerns eliminated that site from consideration.
Longo said the assembly facility would create 150 to 200 jobs for the community.
Discussions on additional space should begin immediately so construction can begin within a year’s time, he added. "We need to be talking about that now," Longo said.
Startech shares, which trade on the Nasdaq exchange under the ticker symbol STHK, rose 25 cents Wednesday to $14.63. |
