DOWNTOWN
ALBANY DIGEST
Fall/Winter 2016 • Issue 2
1 Welcome!
2 New Board Members
3 Amenities Update
5–10 New & Newsworthy
11–12
Out & About
13 Living Downtown
14 Featured Properties
A PUBLICATION OF THE DOWNTOWN ALBANY BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT downtownalbany.org
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WELCOME!
As we move into winter, we are continuing to see a significant growth in residential living Downtown as underutilized office space is being turned into hundreds of new apartments and condominiums. The demand is being fueled by millennials, seniors, and others eager to embrace all the urban amenities available in Albany’s newest walkable neighborhood. These new residents live on historic streets. Did you know that downtown Albany was home to the country’s first poorhouse, a sign of Dutch society’s commitment to caring for those in need? Or that State Street, originally a Native American footpath, is arguably our country’s oldest continuing commercial street? These are just two of the early Albany stories installed recently on 11 interpretive panels on State Street and Broadway, all meant to build a greater pride of place. Celebrating our cultural heritage makes Albany an even greater draw to the visitors who soon will be coming through the Albany Capital Center, scheduled for a spring opening, or to the Times Union Center, now undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation. Such quality developments build on Albany’s past, renewing our streets and preparing us for our future. I look forward to seeing you Downtown— whether dining, attending a cultural event, or simply walking down our beautiful streets. Kind regards,
Hon. Kathy M. Sheehan Mayor, City of Albany
Talk about feet on the street. Downtown came alive this summer as a wide variety of events brought tens of thousands of residents and visitors to Fork in the Road, Pearlpalooza, September in the City, Residential Open House, the Farmers Market at SUNY, the temporary relocation of Alive at Five to Broadway, and our newest event: Deja View, a free outdoor movie series. Helping to draw people to have fun, dine, and shop in Downtown is the significant growth in residential we’ve seen in recent years. This fall alone the BID welcomed 110 new units within and directly adjacent to the District. As apartments come online, the interest continues to grow; approximately 125 people attended our Open House, an event that gave them the opportunity to be among the first to see three new residential projects and tour existing spaces. Expect more residential soon, as the BID received a $390,000 Main Street Grant from New York State Office of Homes and Community Renewal for the conversion of four vacant or underutilized buildings that will result in 32 additional residential units. While interior renovations are happening, so too are streetscape enhancements. This summer 50 new self watering planters were purchased and placed throughout Downtown. In the winter 40 new trash receptacles will be purchased to replace existing cans. New banners will be hung this spring. And in October, 11 interpretive panels were permanently placed throughout State Street and Broadway highlighting our early Dutch heritage. In 2016 the BID worked to raise the level of amenities to match the level of investment taking place in Downtown and these items are just the beginning. We expect to have several announcements in the upcoming months about additional streetscape projects that will enhance one’s experience as they work, live or visit our Capital City. Be sure to connect with the BID on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and through our bi-weekly e-newsletter which you can sign up for on our website to hear the latest news that is taking place in Downtown. Sincerely,
Georgette Steffens Executive Director
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I am thrilled to be serving the downtown Albany community as Chair of the BID Board. I want to thank Brad Rosenstein for his time in the position as Chair, his advocacy on behalf of our Stakeholders, and the streamlining and efficiencies he worked with our BID staff to create. Over the next 12 months you will see the BID re-investing in the District through various streetscape, beautification, and infrastructure projects. The BID purchased 50 self-watering planters that were placed throughout Downtown this summer. We hung a larger than life size map of the District to serve as a directory which was accompanied by a mural painted by a local artist. We recently launched our Signs of Greatness: Albany Stories interpretive panels highlighting our early Dutch heritage. The BID is in the process of designing new banners, purchasing all new trash receptacles, and will have new, additional plantings at critical junctions in Downtown, all of which will be making their debut this spring. We unveiled our new Déjà View free movie series in Tricentennial Park in August. Also the farmers market located at SUNY Plaza added several new vendors. The BID brought back our popular events like Pearlpalooza, Fork in the Road and the Residential Open House and we excitedly hosted thousands who enjoyed Alive at Five on Broadway. These investments and events are critical as we welcome new residents and the conventioneers that will begin arriving in March, as well as attract new retail and office tenants. But these are just the beginning. This spring the BID will have several exciting projects in construction. Stay connected to learn more on our website at downtownalbany.org. Sincerely,
Rich Rosen Chairman of the Board
BID UPDATES
New Board Members Announced Four new Board members were announced at the BID Annual Meeting on June 1, when their three-year terms commenced. They are: Meghan Barkley, Operations Director of Aeon Nexus, has over 14 years of consulting and operations experience in the Public and Private sectors. In addition to supporting client projects, Meghan manages all contracts and operations for Aeon Nexus. Her current responsibilities include managing Federal and State contracting vehicles, managing supplier diversity certifications and corporate operations. (Propery Owner)
Tracy Metzger has been active in commercial real estate in the Capital Region for more than 25 years. In early 2000, Tracy opened her own brokerage and consulting business which has been ranked as one of the top brokerage companies in the Region. More recently, Tracy opened the BEAHIVE, a collaborative co-working environment, on Broadway in early 2012. (Propery Owner)
David Sarraf, co-owner of Fairbank Properties, grew up in grew up in Westchester County and then moved to Atlanta, GA, for four years where he attended Emory University. After college, he moved to Albany, NY, where he started developing apartments in the Pine Hills neighborhood for the off-campus student housing market. Since then, he has expanded the residential development to different markets in the Albany area, most notably, Downtown. He has been a part of the efforts to revitalize downtown Albany for a number of years now, and will continue to be as he plans to develop more residential units in the future. (Propery Owner) Pamela Nichols is the Managing Partner of O’Connell and Aronowitz, a 5-office, 39-attorney law firm that has called downtown Albany its home since 1925. In her role, Pam has accountability for the operations of the firm and delegates responsibilities to various departments within the firm structure while keeping their Shareholders and Executive Committee informed on a regular basis. She has enjoyed calling downtown Albany her “second home” since her time at Albany Law School more than 25 years ago, and has been a strong supporter within her firm of maintaining a Downtown location. (Tenant)
BID Board Position The Downtown Albany BID has one Class A – Property Owner Board position available for a three-year term starting in May 2017. This is a great opportunity to become involved in shaping the development of our Capital City. If you yourself are interested or would like to nominate someone for the open seat please visit the BID’s website at downtownalbany.org/about/board and return the completed form by 4:00 PM on Monday, December 5, 2016.
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BID DISTRICT AMENITIES
Defining Downtown As you know, the Downtown BID covers a very specific area of the Capital City. For a long time, there has been a debate about where exactly “Downtown” lies. For the BID, the borders have always been approximately City Hall east to Broadway, and the Palace Theatre south to Westerlo Avenue, and now there is another resource which defines downtown Albany using the same boundaries. In a September 2016 article, the Albany Business Review previewed a project looking at the region’s four largest Downtowns and offered their definition for each. The paper built the maps by “looking at the mix of assessment, special, and taxing districts meant to define the lines for the region’s downtowns.” Read more of the ABR article here: https://goo.gl/nKJNWk. Learn more about what’s happening in Downtown in the following pages, and by visiting downtownalbany.org.
Make Your Move New residential conversion projects throughout Downtown — including 20 Park Street, 1 Columbia Place, and 50 S Pearl Street — were the highlight of the Downtown Albany BID’s Residential Open House on August 19th. Eight properties participated in the event, giving property managers an opportunity to showcase their available units to potential residents. Downtown welcomed more than 125 interested folks who toured the spaces and had the chance to view various layouts and building styles, as well as speak with BID staff about the exciting developments taking place throughout Downtown. Many of these visitors also stayed to enjoy dinner and experience the benefits of living here firsthand. For more information on Downtown residential, visit downtownalbany.org/live.
Grants Spur Development The Downtown Albany BID was the recipient of a New York State Homes & Community Renewal Main Street Grant award in 2015, and as a result a number of development projects are underway to convert vacant or underutilized buildings into vibrant retail and residential spaces. Projects at 414 Broadway, 420 Broadway, and 46 State Street are moving forward, as well as plans for streetscape enhancements within the vicinity of those properties. As per the program requirements, the converted spaces must be completed by December 2017 and will result in two new retail spaces and nearly one dozen new residential units.
It’s in the Bag! This summer, thousands of useful household items and special offers were collected from 26 participating businesses throughout Downtown and distributed to every residential unit throughout the District as part of the Downtown Albany BID’s largest retail and residential marketing effort to date. Sponsored by Kinderhook Bank, this ongoing program aims to introduce residents to the many convenient products and services that are available Downtown. Special thanks to the incredible residents of the South Mall Towers who volunteered their time and energy to stuff the reusable canvas bags for us!
414 Broadway, one of the buildings to be redeveloped with help from the NYS Homes & Community Renewal Main Street Grant.
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Residential welcome bags were delivered to apartments throughout the District.
CLEAN & SAFE
BID Dollars at Work It is critical that the level of our amenities match the level of investment taking place Downtown. As we have welcomed hundreds of new residents in the past couple of years and will welcome thousands of conventioneers at the new Capital Center, our streets are the welcome mat to our City. The Downtown Albany BID is activating our streets through brick and mortar improvement projects and investments like these:
Downtown in Bloom
Watering flowers in Jim DiNapoli Park.
Flowers are the cornerstone of any beautification program and they certainly enhance the existing vibrancy of downtown Albany. This year, the BID purchased 50 brand new self-watering ground planters and placed them throughout the District in key locations. With the help of a landscape architect and input from our locally-contracted grower, flowers were selected to provide the most dazzling display possible. Because the planters are self watering, it also lowered the amount of maintenance required to keep the plants and flowers healthy and bursting with color. In addition to the new ground planters, close to 250 hanging baskets were revamped and included an all new assortment of lush plants and flowers. The window boxes along Jim DiNapoli Park were home to an array of colorful plants, flowers and bright green hanging vines over the summer, while mums and kale were recently planted for the fall.
Streetscape Enhancement
Building on the momentum and investment being made Downtown, the BID has recognized the need to match that same level of investment by improving streetscape amenities. One such initiative one such initiative, to take place in late winter or early spring, involves replacing most of the existing trash receptacles with brand new, more attractive and distinct models. Upgrading and replacing even the simplest of amenities can enhance the pedestrian experience of residents, visitors and those who work in the District.
One of the 50 self-watering planters placed throughout the District this year.
Team Players
Versatile, dedicated and dependable. The Downtown Albany BID Clean Team is all these things and more. Led by Scott Reed, the team performs many more duties aside from their main focus of keeping Downtown free of litter and debris. Trimming weeds, reporting issues or damage within the District, finding lost items, and helping with general questions are all a part of this core service that enhances the quality of life in Downtown. Whether it’s hanging paper lanterns in one of Downtown’s parks, assisting with planting mums or clearing snow from curb cuts, the Clean Team consistently displays their dedication, versatility and dependability throughout the more than 6,000 man hours they work annually.
A window box in DiNapoli Park.
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Downtown might be known as the central business corridor, but that doesn’t stop the arts and entertainment organizations in our District from making big splashes. In the last several months, big news has come from Albany Center Gallery, Palace Theatre, and the Times Union Center – not to mention the even bigger murals that have taken shape. Get a taste for what’s happening here, and visit downtownalbany.org for more info and photos.
Eye-catching Murals Notice something new when you’re heading into Downtown from 787? Or while you’re walking around N Pearl Street? Two new, and seriously huge, murals have taken shape in Downtown transforming the streetscape into a giant canvas.
Albany Center Gallery executive director Tony Iadicicco sits in what will be the Gallery’s new home.
Albany Center Gallery The 40-year-old institution is on the move. Following a two year search for a new home, the Albany Center Gallery will be relocating to The Arcade Building, 488 Broadway, in early 2017. The relocation, which is just a few blocks from their current space on Columbia Street, offers a built-in audience as the building is also home to 60 apartments. At the forefront of showcasing local and regional artists, Albany Center Gallery exhibits in their space and at community events. For more information, visit albanycentergallery.org.
Albany Devils Hot (cold?) off an epic season of hockey, the Albany Devils are back in action at the Times Union Center. ICYMI >> the hometown team—the region’s only AHL team—made it to the Calder Cup playoffs during the 2015/16 season. Not only that, the series made it to Game 7, marking the first time in Devils’ history and the third Game 7 in Albany’s AHL history. They’re already off to a great start! Grab your tickets at the box office or thealbanydevils.com now so you won’t miss out on the action.
The first, a 25’ x 85’ hand-painted piece on the Quackenbush Garage by artist Michael Conlin, is a soaring mural featuring six Eastern Bluebirds – the official New York State bird – in various stages of flight. View it from Broadway, Clinton Avenue, or Quackenbush Square. The mural is the result of a collaboration between Albany Center Gallery, ParkAlbany, and community partners. The second, a contemporary piece titled “You Are Here, Too” on a temporary façade, is by artist Rachel Baxter. The hand-painted 15’ x 48’ mural is an extension of the large Downtown map at 27 N Pearl Street and is inspired by Baxter’s time hiking and camping and the connection between our environment and ourselves. View it from N Pearl Street or Maiden Lane. The mural will be up while renovations are taking place inside the building, and is the result of a collaboration between the Downtown Albany BID, Albany Center Gallery, and Fairbank Properties.
Albany Symphony Orchestra Happy anniversary, David Alan Miller! The Albany Symphony Orchestra’s Grammy Award-winning conductor is celebrating 25 years with the institution, complete with a 2016-17 season that has already drawn a lot of attention (An opera based on a William Kennedy novel? Check). How is he feeling after all these years at the helm? “I feel fresher than ever,” he told the Times Union. For more information on ASO, or to purchase tickets, visit albanysymphony.com.
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Michael Conlin’s mural on the Quackenbush Garage.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Times Union Center Holy upgrade, Batman. The Times Union Center is undergoing a façade improvement, ground for which was broken in October, and will be completed in Fall 2017. The nearly $20 million project will result in the enclosure of both the S Pearl Street entrance so the atrium is no longer exposed to the elements, and the rear entrance near the parking garage. Great news for Downtown and the 17,500-person capacity venue! More exciting news for TUC: Bob Belber, regional general manager for SMG (which operates the arena) was named the 2016 Executive of the Year by the Albany Business Review in part because he has been instrumental in planning those upgrades, and helping to market the Center’s neighbor – the $78 million Albany Capital Center.
Rendering of the new enclosed atrium at the Times Union Center.
Palace Theatre Designated a Priority Project through the Capital Region Economic Development Council, the Palace Theatre’s expansion project will breathe new life into one of Albany’s most distinguished historic landmarks. Serving as an anchor for downtown Albany’s arts and cultural district the project will include: a new 600-seat theatre; expansion of original Palace stage house; support spaces for community events; addition of a loading dock; expanded lobby & box office; arts education studios & classrooms; video post-production studio; and rehearsal space. The renovations and expansion will provide a “Community Center” to Albany’s most challenged neighborhoods and triple the number of performance offerings. The Palace Theatre is home to our Grammy Award winning Albany Symphony Orchestra and expanded Park Playhouse. All three organizations provide high quality arts, education and performances that attract 200,000 people to Downtown annually and the Downtown Albany BID Board designated this transformative project a priority as well. For more information on the Palace Theatre expansion visit thefutureofthepalace.com. Rendering of the proposed Palace expansion.
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NEW & NEWSWORTHY
New Space for Regional Headquarters 30 S Pearl Street will soon be home to the newly renovated and expanded regional headquarters of Berkshire Bank. The Pittsfield, MAbased business is leasing 22,000 square feet of office space on two floors of the building owned by Omni Development Co. The new location will give them room to grow as the space can hold more than 60 employees.
AHAVC staff with Wildwood Day Services participants and staff in the sensory garden they designed.
A Calming Place Just a few feet from a bustling Downtown you can now find an oasis in the form of a therapeutic sensory garden. Located at the Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center is the space that was designed by Wildwood Day Services participants, staff, and community volunteers to stimulate the senses. Opened for those who sometimes struggle with sensory processing, the garden is open to the public and free to visit. “It embraces the senses so instead of feeling sensory overloaded or overwhelmed in a certain area they would feel more at peace,” Bridget Kennedy, a Wildwood Workforce Development specialist, told Time Warner Cable News at the ribbon cutting. 25 Quackenbush Square | 518.434.0405
“We looked at various options. We wanted to make a commitment to downtown and find a space where we could grow and make a statement about our commitment to downtown,” Scott Houghtaling, executive vice president for Berkshire Bank in Albany, told the Albany Business Review.
Coming Alive Broadway got a little more crowded over the summer as Alive at Five was moved back into Downtown in front of Tricentennial Park. A temporary relocation, as the Corning Preserve was undergoing construction, the 8-week, free series drew approximately 35,000 people to the District. Not to mention the national acts that performed, including The Joy Formidable, Tony! Toni! Tone!, Locash, and Molly Hatchet.
Downward Dog
Good for the soul – free yoga classes offered at SUNY Plaza.
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While her employees were busy serving up food that was good for you, Dali Mamma owner Katrin Haldeman was busy offering up classes that are good for the body, mind, and soul. Over the summer, she offered free yoga classes outside SUNY Plaza on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The event drew Downtown employees and those who happened to be in the area for the weekly Downtown farmers market. New classes are starting soon! Visit dalimamma.com for full info.
NEW & NEWSWORTHY
Horse Power in Downtown It’s been a long time since horse-drawn carriages were an everyday part of Downtown, but over the summer those who took advantage of the Irish American Heritage Museum’s horse-drawn trolley tours got to relive a bit of history – while also learning some. A partnership between the Museum and Clayhaven Carriage & Wagon, the one-hour tours ran mid-June thru early August and gave people a new way to experience Downtown and learn about points of interest including Clinton Square, where Herman Melville lived and wrote Moby Dick, or that the first official basketball game was played at the YMCA on N Pearl Street. 370 Broadway | 518.427.1916
Moving Headquarters Downtown More exciting news for the District: The New York State Canal Corp. is moving its administrative headquarters to 30 S Pearl Street. The move relocates them from Exit 23 off the Thruway and will bring an additional 25 employees to the growing Downtown community.
A trial run before kicking off the horse-drawn trolley tours in Downtown.
The Canal Corp is responsible for the oversight, administration, and maintenance of the canal system, which consists of Erie, Cayuga-Seneca, Oswego, and Champlain canals.
Classic Americana New location. Retro feel. A new Johnny Rockets is coming to Downtown on S Pearl Street as part of the Times Union Center. The eatery, operated locally by Louis Chicatelli (who also runs the Crossgates Mall Johnny Rockets), is slated to open at the end of the year and will fill a 3,100-square-foot space and offer an expanded menu, full bar, and craft beer and will operate seven days/week. Fun Fact >> The name originated by combining the timeless Johnny Appleseed story with the classic Oldsmobile Rocket 88. 51 S Pearl Street
Fashion Central Downtown isn’t just home to world-class eateries, entertainment, and shopping—it’s also home to an internationally trained fashion designer. Daniel Mozzes Design is now open in a newly renovated retail space inside 59 N Pearl Street (entrance on Steuben Street). Having lived in a variety of locations, including Europe and South America, Daniel says of his designs “every dress is couture, every dress is special, and every dress says something about you and me.” 57 N Pearl Street | danielmozzesdesign.com
Daniel Mozzes Design window display on N Pearl Street.
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NEW & NEWSWORTHY
Taking it Up a Level
So Lucky
Have you heard? There’s a new banquet hall in Downtown, and the owners are ready to host your wedding, fundraiser, corporate event, or anything in between. Founded in 2014 and opening Downtown in April 2016, Levéls Banquet Hall offers three floors to choose from, an exciting atmosphere, catering options, and equipment rentals.
No quarters? No problem. The new high-tech Lucky Cat Laundromat has opened in Downtown, and it offers customers the ability to skip scrounging for change and instead pay with a debit or credit card, or right from their smart phone.
The women who own and operate Levéls strive to provide a fantastic space for a variety of events, including the Gospel Brunch series that kickedLevéls Banquet Hall during one of their recently held events. off in October. Running the 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month with performances at 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM, the event features a brunch buffet and foot-stomping, hand-clapping great time featuring live music from local groups. Call or visit levelsbanquethall.com for more information. 69 N Pearl Street | 518.779.1204
The Good Kind of Hacking You probably don’t want hackers getting into your networks—and neither does Leet Systems. That’s why the new Downtown business wants to hack you before they do. Organizations attempt to make good security decisions, while failing to account for what a real world adversary would do to circumvent their defenses. Leet Systems provides this understanding of your organization’s adversaries by imitating what a Cyber Criminal would do to hack into your organization and gain access to your most critical assets. By mimicking what Cyber Criminals are doing today, your organization can become measurably and meaningfully more secure.
Owner William Yager invested half a million dollars in purchasing, renovating, and outfitting the 2,900-square-foot building that’s outfitted with top-of-the-line Huebsch washers and dryers, and 12 on-site parking spots. As a result, customers are able to take advantage of low-suds, high-speed machines that use less water—Yager noted the 60lb washing machines use just 3 gallons of water, compared to 15 gallons in a typical machine found in laundromats. Oh, and don’t worry, quarters are still an option if that’s how you prefer to pay. Bonus >> Wifi is available, along with drop off and pick up, and delivery services. 133 Madison Avenue | 518.977.3015
54 James Street | leetsys.com
One of the top-of-the-line dryers in Lucky Cat Laundromat.
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NEW & NEWSWORTHY
Olde Meets New
Meet the Flintstones (Animator)
The little house with beer in it is home to something else now too – a brand new face in the kitchen. Sean Comiskey, previously head chef at Druthers Brewing, is the new executive chef at The Olde English Pub. His revamped menu has been released and can we just say… yum.
The BID teamed up with Albany Center Gallery to bring legendary animator Ron Campbell to Downtown. Don’t recognize the name? We’re pretty confident you know his work. Campbell’s 50-year career covers everything from Scooby Doo, Flintstones and Jetsons to animating and directing the Saturday Morning Beatles Cartoon series. Having shown in galleries internationally, it was a great experience for kids of all ages to talk to him and see him in action as he worked on pieces while showing in the R.B. Wing Building (384-386 Broadway) in October.
Chef isn’t the only change here though. They also launched a new website packed full of mouthwatering menu items and shop (because who doesn’t want to rep their favorite place while they’re out on the town?). Check it out at theoldeenglish.com. 683 Broadway | 518.434.6533
Pub Gets New Location Say goodbye to the Jillian’s sign. The Pearl Street Pub has moved across the street to its new, multi-level location after owners Chris Pratt and Alessio Depoli purchased the former Jillian’s building. Now located at 59 N Pearl Street, the move also means more event venue space including The Upper Room, The Green Room, and The Albany Room. More than just a location change, Pearl Street Pub now offers a full menu featuring everything from Loaded Nachos and Mediterranean Salad to house made pizzas.
So Much to Love Lights. Camera. Action. Albany is no stranger to hosting film crews, but over the summer there was a different kind of video being shot: a music video. Local singer/songwriter Ryan Lewis Merritt penned “Downtown Love” as a love letter to the City. Featured in the video are a number of familiar places, including McGeary’s Irish Pub, Patsy’s Barbershop, Tricentennial Park, and the Times Union Center. Check it out for yourself here: https://goo.gl/e3rOkr.
Great Things are Brewing Downtown Open now is a place where coffee nerds can get their drink on. Where you don’t just consume the beverage, you explore the fantastic and often hidden elements that make it amazing. Stacks Espresso Bar opened their second Albany location in Downtown’s Arcade Building (you might recognize the name as it recently underwent a renovation into market-rate apartments and ground-level retail spaces) and is among the latest businesses to recognize the growing residential, employee, and visitor populations in our District. 488 Broadway | stacksespresso.com
59 N Pearl Street | 518.694.3100
Doing Their Part Over the summer, a group of University at Albany freshman, who are part of the “Living Learning Communities” program, volunteered their time at sites around the City, including the African American Cultural Center of the Capital Region, Grand Street Community Arts, and South Mall Towers. The event was coordinated by SUNY with help from the Downtown Albany BID. You can see photos of their work here: goo.gl/4oFUS4.
The grand opening at Stacks Espresso Bar, held in early November.
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OUT & ABOUT IN DOWNTOWN
Playing Pin the Collar on Nipper during PARK(ing) Day.
BID staff at Fresh & Fly Clothing’s 10th anniversary celebration.
Mural at the corner of Maiden Lane and N Pearl Street. Learn more about the temporary piece on Page 5.
Delivering self-watering planters.
Facebook | AlbanyBID
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Officer Jan Mika, one of the BID’s beat officers, picks up a Downtown onesie for his new son.
Twitter | AlbanyBID
The ceremonial topping off event for the Albany Capital Center, which will open in March 2017.
Instagram | DowntownAlbany
OUT & ABOUT IN DOWNTOWN
Were you out and about over the spring and summer? The BID hosted, or participated in, a number of events to activate our streets, parks, and businesses in new ways. Learn more about the events below, and be sure to visit downtownalbany.org for a complete list of upcoming events.
Deja View Free outdoor movie anyone? This summer, the BID launched Deja View, our free outdoor movie series, which drew over 200 people total to Tricentennial Park to see Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark, Salt, and The Princess Bride. On top of watching movies in a park, those who attended also took advantage of special meal deals that were made available by ama cocina, Dawn’s Victory Sports Café, Jack’s Oyster House, Jonathan’s Pizza, McGeary’s Irish Pub, and Merry Monk.
Deja View attendees watch The Princess Bride in Tricentennial Park.
Deja View was made possible through a partnership between the Downtown Albany BID, ParkAlbany, Palace Theatre, and funding in part through Capitalize Albany Corporation’s Amplify Albany grant program.
Pearlpalooza Free concerts don’t usually need The Greeting Committee to welcome people, but this year we got just that. They were among the six bands to perform at Pearlpalooza, the annual event which draws thousands of people to N Pearl Street to rock out to great music. This year, roughly 8,000 people attended the show which featured headliner Galactic. Our thanks to event sponsors Remarkable Liquids, WEQX, Sugar Productions, Jagermeister, and Lucky Strike Social. Save the date>>The 2017 Pearlpalooza will be held September 16.
PARK(ing) Day An annual global event where citizens, artists, and organizations collaborate to temporarily transform metered parking spaces into temporary public places, this year’s PARK(ing) Day event in Downtown saw a number of spots taken over and turned into a mini gallery, red carpet runway, mini farmers market, and a place to play Pin the Collar on Nipper among others. Participating in Downtown were Albany Barn, Albany Center Gallery, Downtown Albany BID, Enchanted Florist of Albany, Fresh & Fly Clothing, artist Matt Chinian, and Steuben Street Market. You can learn more about PARK(ing) Day at parkingday.org.
Pearlpalooza fans pack N Pearl Street during the show.
Science Café We partnered with the New York State Museum once again to bring their Science Café series to City Beer Hall. This October, the program focused on historical archaeology in Albany. Over 125 people attended the free event and engaged in a rousing discussion while enjoying great food and drink. Stay tuned to downtownalbany.org for the 2017 schedule of this popular event. Attendees at a Science Café at The City Beer Hall.
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LIVING DOWNTOWN
This fall alone, 110 new residential units came online in or directly adjacent to the District. More than just big news for our Capital City, it’s great for anyone who seeks to live in Albany’s fastest-growing neighborhood. Below you’ll find current availability; for a complete listing of residential projects and news, visit downtownalbany.org.
412 Broadway | The Argus Apartments Available: 2 Units | 1070-1150 SF Bedrooms: 1-2 | Bathrooms: 1-1.5 Price: $1585
17 Chapel FOR SALE: 2 units | 1590-1650 SF Bedrooms: 2 | Bathrooms: 2 Price: $565,000-650,000
20 Park Street | 20 Park Available: 73 Units | 650-1400 SF Bedrooms: Studio-2| Bathrooms: 1-2 Price: Call for pricing
Amenities: On-site parking, in-unit washer & dryer, stainless steels appliances, granite counters, maple cabinets, central AC/heating.
Stylish condos ready for immediate occupancy. These condos are finished with the highest quality materials including engineered hardwood floors, Bosch appliances, beautiful granite counters in kitchen and baths, solid wood cabinets and much more. The open layout is ideal for entertaining and your guests will marvel at the panoramic views of Albany’s capital buildings.
Amenities: Washer and dryer in unit, dishwasher, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, on-site parking available. Available December 1.
Contact: Stefanie@casshilldevelopment.com 488 Broadway | The Arcade Building Available: Studios & 1-2 bedroom units Bathrooms: 1-2 | Price: $1200-1800 Amenities: One of the newest renovations in Downtown, this historic building houses 60 studios and one- and twobedroom apartments. Central AC/ heating, hardwood and tile flooring, quartz countertops, washer & dryer hook-ups, laundry room and workout space onsite. Off-street parking, heat, wi-fi, and cable included in rent. Contact: Alexandra at 518.512.3693 522-524 Broadway | Penta on Broadway Available: 1 Unit | 700 SF Bedrooms: 1 | Bathrooms: 1 Price: $1150 Amenities: These luxury lofts on Broadway feature granite countertops, hardwood floors, updated appliances, a fitness room, coin-operated laundry, and shared deck space. Off-street parking is available. Pets welcome. Contact: Jeff at 518.376.6984 733 Broadway | The Lofts at 733 Available: 1 Unit | Bedrooms: 2 with den Bathrooms: 1 | Price: $1850 Amenities: Nestled between the heart of Downtown and the vibrant Warehouse District, these new apartments offer offstreet parking, stainless steel appliances, exceptional closet space, multiple floor plans, washer and dryer, wifi and cable included. Pets welcome. Contact: 518.431.1051 x207
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Contact: Samuel Critton | 518.421.8462 35 Maiden Lane Available: 2 Units | 700-800 SF Bedrooms: 1 | Bathrooms: 1 Price: $1550 Amenities: Newly constructed units located above a new restaurant in the heart of the central business district close to everything. Features wood flooring, washer and dryer in unit, stainless steel appliances, and granite countertops. Available December 1. Contact: 518.441.0748 or 518.210.7735 23 N Pearl Street Available: 1 Unit | 950-1100 SF Bedrooms: 1 | Bathrooms: 1 Price: $1280 Amenities: Recently renovated apartment with vaulted ceilings in the heart of the central business district close to everything. Features wood flooring, washer and dryer in unit, stainless steel appliances, and granite countertops. Spiral staircase to loft. One parking space included. Contact: 518.441.0748 or 518.210.7735
Contact: management@twentypark.com or 518.620.PARK (7275) 50 South Pearl | 50 South Available: 15 Units | 850-1200 SF Bedrooms: 1-2 | Bathrooms: 1 Price: $1,025 – 1,700 Amenities: New construction units located in the heart of Downtown, just across the street from the Times Union Center arena and steps from many restaurants and attractions. Open floor plans, energy efficient gourmet kitchens, granite countertops, and walk-in closets. Contact: 518.346.8600 x226 140 State Street | The Berkshire Available: 1 Unit | 1180 SF Bedrooms: 1 | Bathrooms: 1 Price: $2750 Amenities: Private elevator to floor, 24hour keyless security access system, private parking garage with reserved parking, all new construction behind historic 1902 Berkshire Hotel façade, just steps away from local and NYS government, Times Union Center, Hudson River Park, The Egg, and future Albany Capital Center. Contact: Brandon Stabler 518.862.9133 x4520
AVAILABLE BUSINESS SPACES
Looking to relocate your business to the heart of it all? Look no farther than downtown Albany. Whatever your specifications are, we have the space that can work for you. From historic buildings with modern amenities to high-rise buildings or shared-space options, you can find it in Downtown. Here is just a sampling of available space. For a more detailed list, visit downtownalbany.org. Are you a retailer looking to move Downtown? Capitalize Albany’s Retail Grant Program is accepting applications and can assist with funding of new location renovation or fit up costs for new business or with exterior improvements to properties. More info at capitalizealbany.com/grants. Retail 488 Broadway 10,000 SF of sub-dividable retail space on ground floor of the Arcade Building with 3,000 SF skylit arcade that has been restored to its original Art Deco detail. The Arcade runs through the middle of the ground floor from Broadway to James Street creating an indoor public space where consumers can congregate and retailers can realize additional exposure. Fairbank Properties | 518.512.3693 11 North Pearl Street 7,132 SF retail space in former bank building with wide open floor plan that can accommodate any desired layout. Formally the Home Savings Bank location, there are high ceilings and ornate, original finishes throughout the great room, featuring gold-leaf embossed and hand-painted ceilings, shining marble walls, flooring, and pillars, and a decorative fireplace.
Alex Nichols | Eco Realty 518.461.8963 ecorealty@nycap.rr.com 50 South Pearl Street 4,000 SF turnkey restaurant (previously Pagliacci’s Ristorante) and two small retail opportunities with great foot traffic and visibility. Located directly across from the Times Union Center & just blocks from the new Convention Center. Sam Thompson Maddalone & Associates, Inc. 518.346.8600 x230 sam@maddalone.net 153 South Pearl Street Located in a historic building, just south of the high volume intersection of Madison Avenue and South Pearl Street, in downtown Albany. This property is home to various existing retailers. 300-5,000 SF spaces are available for prospective businesses, at negotiable lease rates.
Melissa Martino | Heights Real Estate 646.572.6486 mmartino@heightsre.com
Gallagher & Company 518.432.9705 gcorealty@capital.net
59-61 North Pearl Street Located along Steuben Street, a pedestrian corridor in the heart of Downtown’s central business district, this 1200 SF retail space is competitively priced at $9.50/SF (plus $250 monthly Common Area Maintenance charge) and includes 250 SF of storage. Located beneath a popular restaurant/pub and with easy access from Pearl Street and Broadway, this newly refurbished space can accommodate a number of retail opportunities and is perfect for a start-up business.
Office
Chris Pratt cpratt@nycap.rr.com 86 North Pearl Street Located along one of Downtown’s main corridors, the C3-zoned property is steps from heavily trafficked attractions such as Capital Repertory Theatre, Palace Theatre, as well as businesses such as Albany’s oldest retail establishment, B. Lodge & Company. Formerly a busy sports bar on the first two floors.
Rudy@carrowrealestateservices.com 48 North Pearl Street 7,000 SF office space consisting of the entire second floor (ground level at building entrance on Chapel Street). Next to courts, City Hall, and one block from NYS Capitol. The building is for sale for $1,200,000. Tracy Metzger TL Metzger & Associates, LLC 518.426.5211 x103 tracy@tlmetgzer.com 80 State Street Various sizes of Class A office space available from 475 SF to 9,949 SF. Beautifully maintained office building with excellent tenants and close to State Capitol and Times Union Center arena. Parking available in owner’s adjacent garage at a competitive rate. On site amenities include shared lounge, fitness center, bank, and security desk. Landlord can deliver turn-key. Laurie Tylenda CBRE|Albany 518.452.2700 x139 laurie.tylenda@cbre-albany.com
677 Broadway Four 2,520-8,725 SF office spaces available in 12-story office building with amenities that include 24/7 security and property management services, redundant fiberoptic and uninterruptible electric safeguards, HID security access, highspeed elevators, on-site café & restaurant, unique heated sidewalks, and private balconies. Covered parking available. Douglas Marr Carrow Real Estate Services, LLC 518.255.7608 dmarr@carrowrealestateservices.com 39 North Pearl Street Three 1,801-3,195 SF office spaces available. The building features highspeed elevators, on-site parking garage, and first floor retail (Kinderhook Bank & Dunkin Donuts). Available at $16.50/SF plus utilities. Rudy Lynch Carrow Real Estate Services, LLC 518.462.7491 downtownalbany.org
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MISSION STATEMENT To restore, promote and maintain the character and viability of downtown Albany and improve the quality of life and overall image for those who live in, work in and visit the Capital City.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Executive Committee Richard Rosen, Chairperson Columbia Development Companies James Hart, Vice Chairperson Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Dan Fariello, Treasurer Capital Bank Jeffrey Gordon, Secretary Gordon Companies Board Members Mark Aronowitz, Omni Development Company, Inc. Louis Bannister, The Enchanted Florist Meghan Barkley, Aeon Nexus Holly Brown, Palace Theatre Stephen M. Cleary, Hinman Straub, P.C. Brendan Cox, Albany Police Chief George Penn, Office of the Albany County Executive Karen LaBerge, Albany Management Tracy Metzger, TL Metzger & Associates Hon. Daniel P. McCoy, Albany County Executive Hon. Carolyn McLaughlin Pamela Nichols, O’Connell & Aronowitz Dominick Purnomo, Yono’s/dp’s David Sarraf, Fairbank Properties Hon. Darius Shahinfar, Treasurer, City of Albany Hon. Kathy M. Sheehan, Mayor, City of Albany Mark Yonally, B. Lodge & Company
STAFF Georgette Steffens, Executive Director Schuyler Bull, Assistant Director Rebecca Haizmann, Marketing and Communications Manager Don Wilson, Operations Manager
NYS Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul speaks at the 2016 Downtown Albany BID Annual Meeting. Listening (from right) are SUNY Chancellor Nancy Zimpher, Albany Mayor Kathy M. Sheehan, Jack’s Oyster House owner and outgoing BID Board Chairperson Brad Rosenstein, SEFCU Chief Community Officer Kathy Lanni, Columbia Development Companies VP and incoming BID Board Chairperson Richard Rosen, and Downtown Albany BID Executive Director Georgette Steffens.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Whether DAY Life or NIGHT life, downtown Albany is the GOOD Life. Thank you to our wonderful 2016 sponsors for making Downtown a vibrant places to work, live and play. Annual Meeting: CDTA Columbia Development Omni Development ParkAlbany Renaissance Albany SEFCU
Pearl Street Pub Remarkable Liquids Sugar Productions WEQX
Signs of Greatness: Columbia Development M&T Bank Palace Theatre
Deja View: Palace Theatre ParkAlbany
Pearlpalooza: Blue82 The Capital Bistro Crossgates Mall Hilton Albany The Hollow Bar + Kitchen Jagermeister Lucky Strike Merry Monk
Residential Welcome Bags: Kinderhook Bank In-kind: Broadway Plaza Liquors CHA Enchanted Florist Palace Theatre Passero Associates Pioneer Bank Upside Collective
Fork in the Road: Pioneer Bank SUNY
Downtown Albany Small Business Saturday: B. Lodge & Co M&T Bank
FALL/WINTER 2016 | ISSUE 2
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