Syracuse Sun

Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh and Boise Mayor Lauren McLean signed a joint proclamation today, declaring Syracuse and Boise to be "sister cities." The mayors indicated that their cities will collaborate to maximize the benefits of federal, state, and private sector investments in the semiconductor industry within their communities.

Under the 2022 CHIPS and Science Act, both Syracuse and Boise are positioned to become leaders in the global semiconductor industry. Micron, headquartered in Boise, will build its research and development center in Idaho's capital city. Additionally, Micron has selected Syracuse as the site for its new "megafab" chip fabrication complex. The sister city relationship aims to establish a platform for collaboration on economic development initiatives, sustainable practices, educational exchanges, and cultural understanding.

"Becoming sister cities is the next step in collaboration between Syracuse and Boise that began more than a year ago," said Mayor Walsh. "Mayor McLean and I have seen firsthand the opportunities for our cities to share best practices and ensure we maximize the benefits of the CHIPS and Science Act investments for all of our residents. I’m looking forward to what this new relationship creates for Syracuse and Boise."

"We can learn from each other, advocate together and make sure that we do all that we can to support the needs of our residents and fully implement the CHIPS and Science Act right here at home in Boise," said Mayor McLean. "That’s why I’m excited about this relationship with Syracuse because you’re doing it too."

The proclamation states that Syracuse and Boise "are forward-looking municipalities committed to economic prosperity, environmental sustainability, and a high quality of life for their residents" and that both cities "prioritize investments in a highly skilled, diverse workforce as well as community investments in economic inclusion that will provide new opportunities for workers and businesses, especially those from socially and economically underrepresented communities."

The full proclamation is available here (DOCX, 69KB). The proclamation signing ceremony can be viewed here.