A center that targets a new wave of research and development for oral and facial surgery needs for children, including those with special needs, could be established in the City of Tonawanda.
OMFS Properties LLC, an affiliate of Northtowns Oral & Maxillo Facial Surgery, is working with the Erie County Industrial Development Agency on an incentive package that could see the development of a 6,500-square-foot R&D facility on Young Street in the City of Tonawanda. The primary focus of the facility will be to work with children, especially those who come from low income households or whose parents lack proper medical insurance, and special-needs children and adults who need maxillofacial and dental services.
Much of the work may include newly developed implants, some of which were developed through the University at Buffalo's School of Dentistry.
"This looks like OMFS could be significant R&D partner with UB in developing some cutting-edge medical technology," said John Cappellino, Erie County Industrial Development Agency director of business development.
OMFS is seeking an abatement package that will help finance the $2.3 million project. Besides working on the new technology, the firm hopes to create at least 10 new jobs.
The ECIDA will conduct a public hearing on the incentive package on Jan. 6, and the agency's full board is expected to vote on it on Jan. 11.
"For now, we are continuing our due diligence," Cappellino said.
Northtowns Oral & Maxillo Facial Surgery has facilities in Lockport and Buffalo. The Tonawanda site would augment those two centers.
