SYRACUSE, NY — Mayoral candidate Sharon Owens today unveiled her bold policy vision, “Big Things Ahead,” in front of the soon-to-open STEAM high school in downtown Syracuse. Framing Syracuse’s future as one filled with opportunity and responsibility, Owens made a promise to work to “Maximize the Moment,” outlining a plan to ensure transformational projects like the I-81 Community Grid, Micron’s investment, and the new STEAM school benefit every neighborhood and resident. 

She was joined by members of IBEW Local 43, who stood beside her as their union officially endorsed her campaign to be the 55th mayor of Syracuse.

“This is a pivotal moment for Syracuse,” Owens said. “We’re facing once-in-a-generation investments in infrastructure, education, and industry. As Mayor, I will ensure those investments uplift families, connect our communities, and prepare us for a stronger future, together. Syracuse, we need to have a shared belief that our best days are ahead, and understand that working families must be at the center of the progress we make.”

IBEW Local 43 Business Manager and Financial Secretary Al Marzullo praised Owens’ leadership and commitment to the labor community, saying, “This endorsement comes from the heart of our organization, representing the collective support of our 1,500 members who believe in your vision and commitment to advocating for the needs of working families. We are confident that your candidacy will resonate with the values and aspirations of our members, and we are eager to assist in propelling your campaign towards a triumphant outcome. Your dedication to championing the causes that are crucial to our members and the broader community has not gone unnoticed, and we trust that you will continue to be a formidable ally in the pursuit of progress and fairness.”

Owens’ Big Things Ahead plan includes:

• Infrastructure with Purpose: Partnering with NYSDOT and local stakeholders to ensure the I-81 Community Grid reconnects Syracuse safely and equitably, with streets designed for pedestrians, bikes, transit, and green space.

• Workforce Development: Expanding initiatives like Syracuse Build and Pathways to Apprenticeship to ensure more Syracuse residents are prepared to work on infrastructure and construction projects.

• Education for the Future: Supporting the new STEAM school as a model for career-driven learning, and working with SCSD to ensure it remains a safe, innovative, and inclusive space for students and staff.

• Livability and Growth: Promoting housing options, recreational amenities, and economic development that match the needs of a larger, more diverse workforce.

• Micron and Economic Inclusion: Ensuring the benefits of Micron’s downtown presence extend citywide through smart policy and public-private collaboration.