Albany Planning Department Report

Albany, New York: A Sustainable Capital for the 21st Century

One of the oldest cities in the country, Albany displays its Dutch heritage in the architecture of some of its buildings and in the narrow streets that date from colonial times. In 2005 Forbes magazine named Albany number 34 among the nation's "Best Places for Business." Education Albany boasts seven colleges or universities awarding degrees in such diverse fields as business, education, medicine, regional planning, and law. As the Capital of New York State, Albany is involved in education to a degree not too often attained by a City of its size. For instance, Albany is the headquarters of the State Education Department.

The following educational institutions are located in Albany: Albany College of Pharmacy, Albany Law School, Albany Medical College, The College of St. Rose, Junior College of Albany, Maria College, State University of New York at Albany The Capital Region is prepared for continued growth through the abundance of quality education provided by the 21 colleges found within a 30-mile radius, accounting for 80,000 students. Forbes Magazine ranks the Capital Region the third “Best Place with the Best Education” in the nation. Residents of Albany, NY live in the ninth most-educated city in the country according to Business Development Outlook Magazine (July/August 2002) Parks, Recreation, and Culture Albany is home to many beautiful parks, including Washington Park, Lincoln Park, and Albany Riverfront Park, as well as numerous neighborhood pocket parks. The Palace Theatre, the Egg, and Capital Repertory hosts symphonies, orchestras, and Broadway shows, while the Pepsi Arena is the home to sports and entertainment venues. City parks and recreational facilities encompass a total of 2,001 acres, including 15 community parks and 11 major parks. The parks of the City of Albany offer year-round recreation facilities and programming. Geography Albany is located on a steep hill at the confluence of the Mohawk and Hudson rivers in the east-central region of New York State. At the riverfront, the city is only a few feet above sea level. The terrain rises gradually, reaching a height of 1,800 feet 11 miles to the west and 2,000 feet 12 miles to the east. Albany has a land area of 21.84 square miles (2000) and an average elevation of 29 feet above sea level.

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Government Albany is governed by a mayor and a sixteen-member council elected for four-year terms. The city is divided into 15 wards, with each ward represented on the council by an alderman. Housing Albany’s residents occupy 40,709 housing units, for an average of 2.34 persons per unit. An additional 4,579 units were vacant at the time of the 2000 Census, bringing the total number of housing units in the City to 45,288. The majority of the housing units in Albany, 62.4%, are renter-occupied. Owner-occupied units comprise 37.6% of the City’s housing stock. Less than 10% of the remaining housing units in Albany were classified as vacant. Between 1990 and 2000, the total number of occupied housing units declined by 3.4%, a net decline of 1,412 units. The figures reflect significant housing unit losses in certain areas of the City, such as the South End, with housing growth in other areas of Albany. The owner occupancy rate decreased slightly from 38.3% to 37.6%. The number of vacant units rose slightly, from 8.5% of the total housing stock in 1990 to 9.9% in 2000. In terms of the number of units per structure, Albany has a relatively diverse housing stock. Single-family detached or attached homes represent 33.4% of all housing units. Two family structures account for 27.1% of all residences, while three and four-unit structures account for 15.5%. Another 23.9% of the housing units in the City are in multi-family buildings with five or more units. Almost 50% Albany’s housing units were constructed prior to 1940, evidence of a need for sustained maintenance, repair, and rehabilitation. Just over 90% of Albany’s housing stock was built prior to 1979, indicating the potential for a high incidence of housing units with lead based paint issues. The age of the housing and limited new construction shows a need for rehabilitation and new construction. The Albany Housing Authority (AHA) administers 2033 units of Federal and New York State-assisted low-income public housing. AHA provides homes for over 3,700 persons, representing nearly 4% of the City of Albany's full-time population. The Authority also administers over 1700 Vouchers under the low-income Section 8 Housing Choice Program. AHA has implemented many programs that serve the residents with their goals of economic independence and self-sufficiency.

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Select Demographics (2000 Census) Total Population 95,658 Percent White 65.1 Percent Black or African American 29.9 Percent American Indian and Alaska Native 1.0 Percent Asian 3.9 Percent Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander 0.1 Percent Some other race 3.2 Percent Owner-occupied housing units 37.6 Percent Renter-occupied housing units 62.4 Percent Bachelor’s degree or higher 32.5 Percent commuting to work via public transit 13.1 Percent walking to work 10.8 Median household income $ 30,041 Percent of households below poverty level 17.0 ISSUES TO BE ADDRESSED Air and Water Quality The City water system serves over 95,000 residents through 29,000 service connections. The total water produced in 2005 was 7,781,306,388 gallons. The amount of water delivered to customers was 7,717,968,738 gallons, allowing 63,337,650 gallons for filter washes and other filtration plant domestic use. The numbers above in conjunction with a large area of impervious surfaces provides the city with an opportunity and obligation to find ways of conserving this valuable resource. Water can be conserved through water-efficiency programs and quality can be improved through the promotion of green building and infrastructure practices. Air quality in the City of Albany can be improved by the promotion of green roofs, energy efficiency programs for public and private structures, street tree programs, and the promotion of mass transit and ride sharing for the approximately 81,000 workers (2004) who commute to the city on a daily basis. Energy Efficiency The City of Albany recognizes the importance of energy-efficiency and recognizes that we can increase citywide energy-efficiency by conducting an energy audit of city-owned buildings and facilities and by taking the lead on promoting energy conservation, renewable energy, and sustainable building technologies. Energy efficiency may also be promoted through programs and incentives for homeowners and businesses citywide.

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Transportation

The SDAT will address numerous aspects of transportation. These issues encompass parking practices and policies, circulation, pedestrian and bicycle facilities, mass transit, and ride-sharing. As an older city with an existing infrastructure that is in the process of ongoing revitalization, it is of paramount importance that we improve and promote a diverse and sustainable transportation system. Housing/Affordability The City is dedicated to working with our public and private partners to improve the quality and availability of affordable housing. Additionally, we recognize the importance of promoting sustainable technologies and practices in the construction of new housing or the rehabilitation of existing stock.

Revitalization Albany has experienced significant revitalization in the past 10 years and is at a turning point for attracting the next level of investment and activity. Despite the growing success of commercial expansion in downtown Albany, buildings still remain that are currently underutilized, especially upper floor elevations downtown. The City is currently managing a program to assist property owners in rehabilitating these upper floors back to residential use. This in conjunction with the new downtown condominiums slated for construction over the next year marks a concerted effort by the City to promote the sustainable reuse of existing structures and the development of modern dwellings to attract residents back to our walkable, mixed-use downtown. Public Policy/Planning/Land Use The City is in the early stages of developing a citywide comprehensive plan and sustainability will be a cornerstone of this plan. This plan will provide the community the forum to vocalize and document its commitment to the issues and recommendations identified as a result of the SDAT process. Additionally, the City is committed to updating the zoning ordinance following the comprehensive planning process, which will provide the opportunity for elements of sustainability to be formally codified and implemented by city departments and governmental entities. The City also believes, as the capital of New York, it is has a commitment to lead by example regarding urban sustainability. Public Spaces The City recognizes that the quality of life for residents and visitors is dependent upon the number and design of public spaces. These spaces range from small pocket parks, the Hudson Riverfront Park, and streetscapes. These public spaces also provide the

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opportunity for employing sustainable practices such as urban greening, pedestrian and bicycle linkages, and green stormwater systems. POTENTIAL OBJECTIVES OF SDAT PROCESS Potential concepts to be reviewed as part of the SDAT process:

• Creation of marketing and educational materials showing economic benefit of sustainable building and design.

• Development and codification of green building and infrastructure standards. • Conduct energy audit of public buildings and facilities. • Promotion of alternative transportation options: bus, walking, bicycling, ride-

sharing. • Construction of model green homes and businesses. • Development of partnerships with green companies and funding sources. • Development of funding or grant program for sustainable residential rehabilitation

and/or upgrades. • Development of incentives for residential and business energy conservation. • Creation of city sustainability staff position. • Promotion and codification of bicycle facilities. • Codification of energy-efficiency standards. • Promotion of a street tree program. • Determine % of impervious surfaces in the city. • Work with the local chapter of Habitat for Humanity on green building practices. • Evaluation of current city recycling program and landfill efficiency.

CURRENT PROJECTS THAT WILL BENEFIT FROM THE SDAT Numerous major projects and initiatives that are in various stages of development that will provide the opportunity for the City to initiate sustainable building and infrastructure practices. Examples include: Harriman Campus Redevelopment The Harriman campus is an existing 300 acre New York State office park with 2.5 million square feet of office space. The state is currently working with the City and numerous stakeholders on a plan to transform the campus into a mixed-use innovation community. The Harriman Campus will be a state-of-the-art research and office facility spanning 300 acres within the city. Through partnerships with businesses, state and local government, and researchers at the University at Albany, the Harriman Campus will foster development of cutting-edge technologies and new projects, create high-quality jobs, stimulate investment and economic growth, expand the local real property tax base and encourage technology transfer and commercialization. The scale of this

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redevelopment offers an unparalled opportunity to convert an aged and inefficient infrastructure to a modern sustainable standard. Convention Center A new 225,000 total-square-foot $200 million convention center will be constructed along Broadway in downtown Albany. The project will bring new jobs, businesses, investment and regional and national attention to the community helping to revitalize Albany's downtown. The convention center will make it possible for larger gatherings of labor unions, business groups and other organizations to meet in New York's capital city.

Downtown Condominiums

• 733 Broadway is an approved ten-story residential building with 122 for sale units and 192 indoor parking spaces within the first three floors.

• SOMA at Quackenbush Square is an approved mixed-use project consisting of 115,000 square feet of office, 100-130 apartments (132,000 square feet), and 22,500 square feet of commercial space.

Downtown Residential Initiative The City of Albany, the Community Preservation Corporation (CPC), and the Albany Local Development Corporation (ALDC) are seeking proposals from qualified architectural/ engineering firms to investigate the feasibility of converting upper floors of commercial properties in Albany’s Central Business District (CBD) into residential uses. The goal of the project will be to provide requisite technical analysis for those property owners who are interested and have the appropriate space to move forward on upper floor residential conversions. The selected architectural/engineering firms coordinate with designated property owners to conduct a property evaluation to determine feasibility of converting underutilized or vacant space for residential use. Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Update In the past year, the City of Albany has made a commitment to develop a citywide comprehensive plan. The plan will logically guide development through zoning to provide for a livable and sustainable community that is true to the city’s character. The comprehensive plan is in the initial stages of research and capacity building, and will be moving forward to utilize specialists and the community to identify, preserve and provide for historical, cultural and natural resources as well as to examine current land use, transportation and infrastructure. Wellington Row A string of five dilapidated abandoned buildings known as Wellington Row have recently been slated to be redeveloped by a locally-active private developer with the help of a $2.5 million grant from Restore NY, a state-funded restoration grant program. The buildings,

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left vacant for over 20 years, will be converted into office buildings with ground-floor retail to promote a walkable downtown. The rebirth of the row, which lines State Street - the main thoroughfare providing vistas of the State Capitol and the State University of New York Plaza, is a pivotal component of the city’s plan for the revitalization of downtown. Route 5 BRT The NY 5 corridor between Albany and Schenectady is a16.5 mile roadway that is the Capital District Transportation Authority’s (CDTA’s) busiest corridor. Routes in the corridor carry 25% of CDTA’s total ridership. Along the corridor, there are travel destinations that range from major employment centers (such as the New York State Capitol, the Alfred E. Smith State Office Building, the Empire State Plaza, One Commerce Plaza, the MVP Health Plan offices and the New York State Department of Transportation’s Region 1 Offices) to major shopping destinations (Colonie Center, Northway Mall and Mohawk Commons) and general retail and service businesses, residential housing. As identified in the NY 5 Land Use and Transportation Concepts Study, Bus Rapid Transit is particularly well-suited for the corridor because it can bring rail-like service to the major destinations in the corridor at a much lower cost, with much less disruption, in less time than light rail transit. A BRT system can also take full advantage of new traffic signal technology being installed on NY 5, which can help support preferential treatment of the BRT service. In addition, since NY 5 is readily accessible from both the Northway (in Colonie) and I-890 (in Schenectady), there is the potential for driving to “satellite parking areas” at which BRT can be accessed for travel to the downtowns. BUDGET Organization AMOUNT City of Albany - Planning Staff – in-kind $5,000 City of Albany Planning Staff - mapping $1,000 Scott Townsend – 3T architects – in-kind moderator- Certified Green Communities Charrette Facilitator

$2,400

AIA’s SDAT Program $20,000 Total $28,400 The City of Albany is also committed to securing the necessary funds to successfully undertake and complete the SDAT process. TIMETABLE As the City is in the early stages of the comprehensive planning process, we would like to initiate the SDAT program in the Spring of 2007 with a completion date no later then 6/31/07.

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STEERING COMMITTEE Alain Kaloyeros - invited College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering at SUNY-Albany Howard Stoller - invited Council of Albany Neighborhood Assoc. Scott Townsend AIA LEED 3t architects 418 Broadway Albany NY 12207 518.618.0900 Lori Harris Norstar Development 733 Broadway, Albany NY 12207 518.431.1051 Darren Scott Albany Housing Authority 200 South Pearl, Albany NY 12202 518.641.7483

Duncan Barrett Omni Development 40 Beaver Street, Albany NY 12207 518.432.4500 Tom Nardacci Gramercy Communications 418 Broadway, Albany NY 12207 518.459.2284 George Leveille or representative Albany Convention Center. Authority 25 Quackenbush Square Albany, NY 12207 518.434.1217 x203 Dan Herring City of Albany Common Council Land Use Committee 4 Fairlawn Avenue Albany, NY 12203 518.438.7527

Mike Yevoli, Planning Director City of Albany Dept of Dvlpmnt. & Planning 21 Lodge Street Albany, NY 12207 518.434.2532

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TECHNICAL COMMITTEE Dan Woodside AIA LEED Collins+Scoville 40 Beaver Street Albany NY 12207 518.463.8068 Jodi S. Anderson Collins+Scoville 40 Beaver Street Albany NY 12207 518.463.8068 Marc Bailey AIA, CNU 3t architects 418 Broadway Albany NY 12207 518.618.0900 Brian O’Toole Enterprise Foundation 54 State Street, Suite 201 Albany, NY 12207 518.427.0670 Gene Bunnell, Ph.D., AICP Department of Geography and Planning AS210 University at Albany 1400 Washington Avenue Albany, New York 12222 518.442.4770 New York State Energy and Research Development Authority - invited John Montagne Chazen Companies 547 River Street Troy, NY 12180 518.273.0055 Doug Melnick, Sr. Planner City of Albany: Department of Development and Planning 21 Lodge Street, Albany NY 12207 518.434.2532

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STUDENT RESOURCES The City of Albany Department of Planning and Development has an excellent relationship with the State University @ Albany’s Department of Geography and Planning. It is our intention to coordinate with Gene Bunnell, Ph.D., AICP of the Department of Geography and Planning to enlist the support of current graduate students for various aspects of the SDAT process. MEDIA PLAN The Steering Committee and the City will work with the media outlets below through press releases in order to raise public awareness of the SDAT and the importance of sustainability in the City and the region in general. Print Albany Times Union News Plaza, P.O. Box 15000, Albany, New York (NY) 12212 (518) 454-5694 www.timesunion.com The Business Review (Albany) 40 British American Blvd., Latham, New York (NY) 12110 (518) 640-6800 www.amcity.com

The Daily Gazette (Schenectady) 2345 Maxon Road, Schenectady, New York (NY) 12308 (518) 374-4141 www.dailygazette.com Tech Valley Times 125 High Rock Ave, Saratoga Springs, New York (NY) 12866 (518) 934-8704 www.techvalleytimes.com

Television PAX TV 55 15 N Pearl St, Albany, New York (NY) 12204 (518) 464-0143 WNYT 13 – Albany – NBC P.O. Box 4035, Albany, New York (NY) 12204 (518) 436-4791 www.wnyt.com WXXZ - FOX23 News 28 Corporate Circle, Albany, New York (NY) 12203 (518) 862-0995 www.fox23news.com

Capital News 9 – 24 Hour Local News 104 Watervliet Avenue Extension Albany, NY 12206 518-641-NEWS (6397) www.capitalnews9.com CBS 6 – WRGB 1400 Balltown Road, Schenectady, New York (NY) 12309 (518) 346-6666 www.wrgb.com WTEN News 10 - ABC 341 Northern Boulevard, Albany, New York (NY) 12204 (518) 436-4822 www.wten.com

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Radio WROW Radio 590 News 6 Johnson Rd, Latham, New York (NY) 12110 (518) 476-5900

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SELF-EVALUATION MISSION The mission of the City of Albany’s SDAT process is to develop a vision for a more sustainable city through a cooperative and open process that brings together various public and private stakeholders and technical experts with the goal of beginning a dialogue towards implementable programs and policies. These programs and policies will have the potential to address numerous issues including air and water quality, transportation, energy-efficiency, land use, affordable housing, public spaces, economic revitalization, public policy, and planning and zoning. PROJECT AREA The SDAT will focus on issues and opportunities on a citywide scale. PARTICIPANT OUTLINE The SDAT process will be open to all members of the community and the following groups to date have been asked to take part in the program: SUNY College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, Albany Housing Authority, City of Albany Common Council, Enterprise Foundation, Historic Albany Foundation, City of Albany Business Improvement Districts, New York State Energy and Research Development Authority, University at Albany Department of Planning and Geography, College of St. Rose, Arbor Hill Development Corporation, South End Action Committee, Capital District Transportation Committee, Capital District Regional Planning Commission, Capital District Transportation Authority, Council of Albany Neighborhood Associations, AIA Eastern New York, Albany Convention Center Authority, Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission, Harriman Research and Technology Development Corp., and numerous local developers, neighborhood associations, non-profits, and businesses. SWOT ANALYSIS Strengths

• Diverse, affordable, historical and aesthetically valuable housing stock • Diversity of population • Access to mass transit • Strong communities and walkable neighborhoods • Center of state government • Historic significance • Stable employers (government, commerce, education) • Hudson Riverfront • Access to major cities (Boston, Montreal, NYC)

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• Environmental & recreational amenities (Adirondacks, Berkshires, Catskills, Black Mountains)

• Cultural and Educational amenities (Palace Theatre, universities, museums, summer home of symphony)

• Numerous not-profit and service organizations. Weaknesses

• Vacant and abandoned buildings • Income and employment gap • Low educational attainment in poor communities (unskilled labor force) • Lack of diverse transportation system • Public safety issues

Opportunities

• Developing nanotech industry – “Tech Valley” • Diverse, affordable historically and aesthetically valuable housing stock • Renewed interest in downtown/urban living • Increased cost of living and doing business in nearby major cities • Cooperative and enthusiastic private business climate • Partnerships with local universities • National and regional recognition as a state capital

Threats

• Dependence on the automobile • Perceived parking problem • Perceived public safety issues • Cost of living and doing business and competition with suburbs

COMMUNITY COMMITMENT TO SDAT PROCESS As the numerous letters of support reveal, the Albany community is eager to undertake the steps necessary to become a sustainable city. We realize the importance of planning for the future and have begun the comprehensive planning process so as to guide current and future initiatives and policies in a desirable direction. The SDAT process will assist the community in identifying a common and implementable vision for a sustainable future.

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SUMMARY OF NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING INITIATIVES SINCE 2000 Arbor Hill Neighborhood Plan The Arbor Hill Neighborhood Plan, completed in July 2003, involved a highly participatory, year-long process. A 23-member Neighborhood Advisory Committee, representing various neighborhood stakeholders, guided City staff and consultants in the development of the plan. Broad public involvement was afforded through an initial public meeting and a hands-on design workshop. Members of the public also participated by commenting at the Advisory Committee’s monthly meetings, and later, by serving on the plan’s implementation committees. A final public meeting to approve the plan was held with over 100 people in attendance. There are four committees working on implementation, representing the plan’s four areas of focus, namely: Homeownership and Rental Housing; Arts, Culture and Heritage; Business and Job Development; and Quality of Life. The Mayor appointed an Arbor Hill Implementation Team, comprised of three representatives from each of these committees to help oversee and coordinate the efforts. The City of Albany will concentrate future planning efforts in Arbor Hill in the areas of housing and commercial development, leaving the other areas to neighborhood leadership. Housing efforts will concentrate on planning at the block level and targeting available resources to those areas. Block planning has begun on Second Street between Henry Johnson Boulevard and Lark Street and will continue onto the parallel sections of First and Third Streets. It entails gathering detailed property information, touring the blocks with an interdisciplinary team including staff from Development and Planning, Building and Codes, Albany Community Development Agency, Albany Police Department, Albany Housing Authority, and Historic Albany Foundation to develop a disposition plan, and implementing the plan using available resources. Plan implementation involves using HUD resources to demolish dilapidated properties, assemble land for new development, and provide financial assistance to address code violations or otherwise rehabilitate existing properties. The Target Block Assistance Program developed by ACDA packages HUD monies to offer up to $15,000 deferred loan for façade renovation, based on existence of Lead paint, exterior code violations and public health and safety issues. Eligible applicants are homeowners with property in the Second Street target block. To date, the Arbor Hill Neighborhood Plan has helped the Albany Housing Authority secure over $5 million for new housing in the neighborhood. This funding will result in the construction of 54 new rental units located in clusters across the neighborhood, beginning in the targeted blocks. In addition, the Plan, in conjunction with this large, planned public investment, has already drawn private sector investment to the target area. The City’s commercial development efforts will focus on assembling ten properties into a combined 26,000 square foot parcel on the east side of Henry Johnson Boulevard, between First and Second Streets. Once fully assembled, this site will be marketed for

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commercial development. The City will then expand its commercial development efforts by focusing on the adjacent block between First Street and Clinton Avenue. It is believed that the desirability of these parcels for redevelopment will increase given the investments in residential properties immediately behind the commercial corridor, i.e. on First, Second and Third Streets between Henry Johnson Boulevard and Lark Street. Abandoned Buildings/Capital City Housing The blighting influence of abandoned properties (buildings and lots) was cited as a major obstacle to improving the Arbor Hill and other inner-city core neighborhoods, very early on in the planning process. In fact, the plan’s advisory committee commented that the problem was so pervasive that making investments in the neighborhood without addressing this issue would be futile. Given the tendency for a number of abandoned properties to continue to cycle through the County’s auction process without ever being fully rehabilitated, one of the City’s first actions on the issue was to request that the County donate to the City selective Arbor Hill properties with development potential. In March of 2004, the City acquired 57 abandoned properties (buildings and lots) from the County. Staff from Development and Planning, Albany Community Development Agency, Historic Albany Foundation, and various not-for-profit and for-profit housing developers toured the previously County-owned buildings as well as some ACDA-owned buildings to assess their potential for reuse given their current condition and historic significance. Working in consultation with the Arbor Hill Housing Committee from the neighborhood planning process, the City developed a disposition plan for these sixteen properties. This plan included setting aside some properties for the Albany Housing Authority development. The City then sent out a Request for Proposals for the eight remaining buildings that were the best candidates for rehabilitation. Despite extensive outreach to contractors and developers, no proposals were received. The disposition of these properties will be revisited with the Housing Committee. No doubt some buildings will be demolished while attempts are made to use remaining funds to preserve those of greatest historic importance. The City has also responded to the abandoned property issue by hiring an outside consulting firm with expertise in this field, The Enterprise Foundation, to provide guidance. The City has already begun to implement its recommendations – one to target resources to address the problem through block planning as described in a previous section, the other – to reconstitute Capital City Housing (CCH). CCH is a Community Housing Development Organization working in close collaboration with the city and residents of target block/NSA residents to develop a vision on how to deal with abandoned properties. Its reconstitution provides access to 15 percent of the City’s HOME funds for project development. CCH is overseen by a board that includes representatives from the banking industry, Historic Albany Foundation, and city neighborhoods. CCH, though starting in Arbor Hill, will act as the facilitator of redevelopment opportunities citywide.

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Touhey Homeownership Foundation The Touhey Homeownership Foundation has established a $1 million fund to construct up to 50 new owner-occupied homes. The initiative will start in Arbor Hill and spread citywide. The City and County have supplied vacant lots for the units, starting on Second Street where block planning is occurring. Homes will start at $89,000. A $20,000 subsidy is being provided per home to make up the gap between the cost of construction and market rates. The homes will be two-family, enabling the homeowner to rent the lower floor. The cost to own a home will be $395 ($795 mortgage plus taxes - $400 rent). Applicants must have an income of at least $27,000 and agree to live in the home for five years to qualify. Since the program will fund construction but not acquisition, the City will continue to work acquire and assemble properties for continued housing development opportunities such as this. South End Action Committee (SEAC) Following the example of Arbor Hill, the South End Action Committee will focus its attention on targeted block planning. The City will work with the SEAC in identifying a target area and developing a disposition plan to share with affected stakeholders. The planning process will be the similar to that used for Arbor Hill. (See Arbor Hill Neighborhood Plan section for more information on block planning.) The SEAC will also be pursuing conceptual ideas for developing a community center at Giffen Elementary School and continuing to outreach to social service providers in the neighborhood to keep them abreast of the SEAC’s work so they can better coordinate their own efforts in the South End. The City is currently working with SEAC and Collins and Scoville Architects on a South End master plan utilizing funds from the AIA 150 initiative. Park South Revitalization Plan The Park South neighborhood is well situated between educational institutions known as University Heights, employers, and other assets. The neighborhood is situated between Albany's beautiful Washington Park on the north and Albany Medical Center and the University Heights campus on the southern and northern boarders. These institutions serve as major employers for the city and capital region. Lark Street, a vibrant, eclectic commercial and neighborhood district, is the eastern boundary of Park South. The Pine Hills neighborhood is to the West. It covers approximately 25.8 acres of land within 9 city blocks and has a population of approximately 1,828. Despite these positive attributes, the neighborhood is experiencing growing problems with public safety. An effort is being made to reverse the trends of disinvestment, declining homeownership and loss of security. This revitalization strategy encompasses a plan for the residential and commercial redevelopment for Park South along with financial pro-forma’s to detail and test the most viable housing product. The strategy also

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looks at the allocation of resources to provide quality housing, which serves current residents, workers and students into the surrounding neighborhood setting. The Albany Local Development Corporation (ALDC) began seeking proposals for the preparation of a revitalization strategy for the Park South Neighborhood in January of 2003. In May of 2003 Design Collective, a planning and architecture firm from Baltimore was hired to do a plan and market study for the neighborhood. From May 2003 to June 2004 Design Collective worked with the neighborhood residents, the Park South Advisory Committee, and City Officials to construct a revitalization plan for the neighborhood. The plan was most recently presented to the Common Council on June 30, 2004. The plan consists of four chapters addressing: The State of the Neighborhood, Opportunities and Market Findings, Plan Recommendations, and Implementation. The Plan is currently complete and the ALDC and Department of Development and planning are beginning the implementation of the plans key elements, which includes the proposed construction of:

• 20 to 27 new for-sale homes • 120 to 180 new rental units • 200 to 400 bed mixed-use student housing facility • 50,000’ +/- SF mixed-use medical office building.

Implementation of Plan elements should be in accordance with the Plan’s guiding principles and in a targeted and methodical manor. Elements of the plan should also happen in concurrent phases, for example: pursuit of a development team for the mixed-use office building can occur while activities supportive of the plan like homeownership programming and quality of life services are being targeted. Implementation of the plan is not reliant on one party but all who have contributed to this process prior to the drafting of the plan including: the Park South Advisory Committee, Park South Neighborhood Association Members, City of Albany Department of Development and Planning, Albany Local Development Corporation, and the University Heights Association. Midtown Colleges and University Study One of the many strengths of the City of Albany is the number of fine institutions of higher education. It is recognized that the colleges and university located in the City are major centers of activity and stability in City neighborhoods. It is further recognized that there is significant benefit to the City and the institutions if there is coordination in and among the institutions forming Community– University partnerships. The NYS Quality Communities Program has provided the City of Albany with funding to undertake a planning process that will result in a strategic plan to leverage the investment opportunities and programming needs of the institutions of higher education. The targeted institutions are those located in the central portion of the City of Albany including: SUNY - downtown campus, the College of St. Rose, the University Heights partners which include the Albany College of Pharmacy, Albany College of Law, Albany Medical College, Albany Medical Center, and The Sage Colleges.

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The City of Albany began seeking proposals for the preparation of a revitalization and investment strategy for the Midtown Colleges and University study area in February of 2004. In March of 2004 URS Corporation, a strategic planning firm, and Institutional Project Management, a facilities development and operations firm, were hired to do a plan and market analysis for the study area. The proposed area of focus is generally bounded by Central Avenue to the north, Lark Street to the east, West Lawrence Street to the west, and the UHA campus to the south. The proposed boundaries are only general parameters identified to guide the effort, and all opportunities to leverage investment decisions among the partners for the benefit of community will be sought. A primary focus of the Quality Communities Initiative in the City of Albany is to develop an implementation strategy for a portion of the City directly impacted by investment activities of SUNY (downtown campus), the College of Saint Rose, the University Heights partners, and the Park South Redevelopment Plan. It is recognized that the coordination of development activities of the partners (the City of Albany, SUNY, CSR, and UHA) will benefit the individual institutions as well as the various neighborhoods in and around the targeted area of the City. Further, the evaluation of needs based on that of the various partners related to student housing, employee housing, commercial services, and programming/educational space is key to accomplishing this coordination. To that end, this study will take account of studies that have already been completed like the strategic revitalization plan for Central Avenue, Avenue 2000, and those like Park South that are currently underway to facilitate this planning process.

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CITY OF ALBANY 5 YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN (2005-2010) Mission: In 1994, Mayor Gerald Jennings assembled a group of key stakeholders to develop a collective vision for revitalizing the City of Albany. The economic development strategy devised by the committee was unveiled in March of 1996, and became known as Capitalize Albany. Initiatives completed since 1994 have resulted in over 1 billion dollars of investment in the City of Albany. In January 2005, Mayor Jennings reconstituted the board of Capitalize Albany with the goal to capitalize on the City of Albany’s emergence as a center of high technology and higher education while continuing successful initiatives in riverfront development and downtown and neighborhood revitalization. The focus areas of the plan are: I. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Goal: Support activities that promote new investment, jobs, and sales and property tax revenue, while helping to retain and grow existing businesses. Objectives:

• Capitalize on the redevelopment of the Harriman State Campus as an opportunity to attract high quality, high tech jobs and businesses; expand the tax base; and integrate the campus with surrounding neighborhoods and the greater City.

• Encourage the relocation of state office tenants from the Harriman Campus to locations within the City of Albany.

• Capitalize on the proposed convention center/hotel development’s ability to create new jobs and draw investment.

• Support the expansion of the Port of Albany as a first class container port. • Support improvements to Central Avenue that will enhance its image and

function as a primary commercial corridor and City gateway. • Support the implementation of Bus Rapid Transit along Route 5 to increase

regional mobility and access and spur economic development. • Support business improvement district initiatives, such as marketing and way

finding. • Coordinate public and not-for-profit workforce training and support programs

to connect City residents, particularly low-income residents, to new job opportunities.

• Leverage the Empire Zone Program to foster job development and business investment.

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II. DOWNTOWN AND RIVERFRONT REVITALIZATION Goals: A. Downtown Diversification: Diversify the downtown economy with particular

emphasis on the housing and commercial/retail sectors. Objectives:

• Inventory available commercial/retail space. • Work with the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District and

commercial realtors to fill vacancies. • Provide architectural services and incentives for residential conversion. • Identify and market housing redevelopment opportunities downtown. • Promote mixed commercial and residential development. • Investigate opportunities to create large-scale development sites. • Encourage the development of hotels downtown. • Seek funding to implement the streetscape design for State Street.

B. Riverfront Destination: Continue to develop the riverfront into a regional recreational

and entertainment destination. Objectives:

• Implement Corning Preserve Phase 2 to create additional festival space and riverfront recreational opportunities.

• Expand programming at the riverfront to include more weekend and evening events and to increase the variety of activities offered. Encourage more commercial activity at the riverfront, capitalizing on seasonal opportunities.

III. ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT Goal: Promote Albany as a major arts and entertainment center for the region to draw increased patronage and encourage tourism. Objectives:

• Pursue development of a convention center and hotel to draw more visitors to Albany.

• Improve Pine Street Plaza as the new location for regional promotion and events. • Facilitate movement within the downtown through the exploration of a free

bus/trolley loop. • Support the development of Lark Street as an arts district.

- 21 -


• Pursue the expansion of arts venues and programs, including finding a new home for the Capital Repertory Theatre, and continued programming and renovation of the Palace Theater.

• Expand the City’s web site to identify and promote attractions throughout the City.

IV. NEIGHBORHOOD LIVABILITY Goal: Expand housing opportunities, support investment in neighborhood commercial districts and make other improvements to enhance neighborhood livability. Objectives:

• Expand owner-occupied and rental housing options in City neighborhoods through compatible infill construction and the rehabilitation of existing structures.

• Provide a variety of housing products to respond to the demands of different target markets.

• Continue outreach and counseling services to qualify individuals for first-time homeownership opportunities.

• Support investment in neighborhood commercial districts. Encourage mixed-use development to add vitality to the street environment.

• Use the enforcement of City Codes as a vehicle to protect residential quality and neighborhood livability.

• Protect and enhance neighborhood assets, such as parks and recreational amenities.

• Plan for the strategic expansion of midtown institutions of higher education to mutually benefit the schools and surrounding neighborhoods.

• Consistent with the City’s Vacant Properties Initiative, concentrate existing public subsidies in targeted areas to support new investment and maximize neighborhood impact.

• Assess the need for additional neighborhood services, e.g. day care, community centers, etc.

• Support the reuse of historic buildings.

- 22 -

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C r r y o F A L B A N vSTATE OF NEWYORK

Orr rce oF THE M lyon12207

November 28,2006

SDAT Program Director, Center for Communities byDesignThe American Institute of Architects1735 New York Avenue NWWashington, D.C. 20006-529i2

Dear SDAT Program Review Committee:

On behalf of the City of Albany, I am pleased to offer my support for our applicationto the American Institute of Architects (AIA) 2007 Sustainable Design Assessment TeamProgram. The City recognizes the growing importance of sustainabiiity, and we arecommitted to embracing and institutionalizing the mechanisms necessary ro make ourcommunity more livable and environmentally efficient.

We are well aware of the efforts of cities such as Chicago, Seattle, Portland,Washington D.C., New York, and Pasaden4 which have embraced sustainabilitythroughnumerous initiatives, such as green building standards, high-perfornance infrastructure,and energy audits and conservation programs, and we look forward to working with theAIA in developing a vision and framework for a more sustainable City of Albany.

Sincerely,

Xr"nUmGerald D. JenningsMayor, City of Albany

=!=.lr]fmrlSlltI{7i'l,

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AIA Eastern New YorkA Chapter of The American Institute of Architects

2006 AIA Eastern New YorkExecutive Committee

President:Randolph J. Collins, AIA

President. El*t:Francis M. Pitts, AIA

V i cefl resi de nt P ro gn ms :David J. Pacheu, AIA

Treasurer:George R. Green, AIA

S*retary:Ma*A. Landon, AIA

Past President:John Sawna, AIA

Board ol Directors:Salvatore Renda, AIAEdmund L. Luzine, AIAPatrick J. Quinn, FAIA

AIM,IYS Director:Jeflrey E. Dyer, AIA

AIM'IY S AlErnaE Director:John Savona, AIA

Executive AssistantAntoinette M. Derado

November 27.2006

SDAT Program Director, Center for Communities by DesignThe American Institute of Architects1735 New York Avenue NWWashington, D.C. 20006-5292


on behalf of AIA ENY, I am pleased to offer my support for the City of Albany's application tothe American Institute of Architects' (AIA) zooz suJtainable Design Assessment Team program.As an AIA component Chapter, we recognize the growing importaice of sustainability, and-we arecommitted_to embracing and supporting the mechinis.r-n"""rrury to make our community morelivable and environmentally efficient.

Currently, as a part of our Chapter's AIAI50 initiative, we are working on the development of amaster plan for one of the neighborhoods in the city of Albany. rne Jner program wouldsupplement the AIA ENy efforts quite nicely.

We are well aware of the efforts of cities such as Chicago, Seattle, portland, Washington D.C.,New York, and Pasadena, which have embraced sustainlability through numerous initiatives, suchas green building standa-rds, high-performance infrastructure, and "nirgy audits and conservationprograms' and we look forward to working with the AIA and the City Ii developing a vision andframework for a more sustainable Albanv.

Sincerely,

WtVl,/,1,?Randolph J. Collins, AIAPresident, ENY Chapter

265 River Street Suite 201 Troy, New York 12180 T: 518 720-3030 F: 518 720-3031 www.aiaeny.org

^trIImrl..l\taitttt-s:trr{7^./l

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AIA Eastern New YorkA Chapter of The American lnstitute of Architects

2006AfA Eastem New YorkExecutive Committee

President:Randolph J. Collins, AIA

President. Elect:Francis M. Pifts, AIA

V ice P resi de nt P ro g n ms :David J. Pacheu, AIA

Treasuter:George R. Green, AIA

S*retary:Mark A. Landon, AIA

Past President:John Sawna, AIA

Board of Directors:

Salvatore Renda, AIAEdmund L Luzine, AIAPatrickJ. Quinn, FAIA

AIM'IYSDircctor:Jeftrey E. Dye4 AIA

AIMIYS Albrnate Dircctot:John Savona, AIA

Executive AssistantAntoinefte M. Derado

November 27,2006



On behalf of the Committee on the Environment (COTE), an affiliate of the American Institute ofArchitects' (AIA) Eastern New York chapter (ENY), I am pleased to offer my support for the Cityof Albany's application to the AIA 2007 Sustainable Design Assessment Team program. We area community organization, working to educate the generafpublic about the rewards ofenvironmental stewardship in its many forms. As such weiecognize the growing importance ofsustainability, and are committed to embracing and supporting the mechanis-r rri""rrury to makeour conxnunity more livable and environmentally efficient.

The SDAT will help Albany to see itself from many points of view and the process will engagethe community in a way that will, from its very nature, improve the sustainable future of this citv.

We are well aware of the efforts of cities such as Chicago, Seattle, Portland, Washington D.C.,New York, and Pasadena, which have embraced sustainability through numerous iniiiatives, suchas green building standards, high-performance infrastructure, and "nirgy audits and conservationprograms. We look forward to working further with the AIA and the City in developing a visionand framework for a more sustainable Albany.

"^"l*,*'at ll I

It(>l L', lt1^,lol s-it, Anderson, AIAChairman,local COTE

265 River Street Suite 201 Troy, New York 12180 T: 518 720-3030 F: 518 720-3031 www.aiaeny.org

Council Member'13th WardDANIEL HERRING4 Faidawn Avenue

Albany, New York 12203

Telephone: 51843&7527Fax 518434-5081

e-mail: [email protected]

ChairPlanning, EconomicDevelopment & Land Use

Vice ChairFinance, Taxation andAssessment

MemberCouncil Operations andEthics

City of AlbanyCommon Gounci l

November 21,2006

SDAT Program Director, Center for Communities by DesignThe American Institute of Architects1735 New York Avenue NWWashington, DC 20006-5292


As the Chair of the Albany Common Council Planning, Economic Development andLand use Committee I am please to offer my support for the Crty's application to theAmerican Institute of Architects' (AIA) 2007 Sustainable Design Assessment TeamProgram. We recognize the growing importance of sustainability, and we are committedto embracing and supporting the mechanisms necessary to make our community morelivable and environmentally efficient.

We are also well aware ofthe efforts of cities such as Chicago, Seattle, Portland,Washington D,C., New York, and Pasadena, which bave embraced sustainability throughnumerous initiativeso such as green building standards, high-performance infrastructure,and energy audits and conservation programs, and we look forward to working with theAIA and the City in developing a vision and frame work for a more sustainable Albany.

Sftcerely,

U"a]<Daniel F. Herring

@

Council Member 8th WardJOHN ROSENZWEIG

19 Mohican PlaceAlbany, NewYork 12208

Telephone: 518.{826883Fax 518.{34-5081

e-mail : [email protected]

Vice ChairPlanning, EconomicDevelopment & Land Use

MemberLaw, Buildings & CodeEnforcementParks, Recreation & FamilyServices

November 29,2006

SDAT Program Director, Center for Communities by DesignThe American Institute of Architects1735 New York Avenue NWWashington, D.C. 200A6-5292


As Vice Chairmen ofthe Albany Common Council's Planning, Economic Developmentand I^and Use Committee, I am pleased to offer my support for the City of Albany'sapplicationto the American Institute of Architects' (AIA) 2007 Sustainable DesignAssessment Team Progran. I recognize the growing importanc€ of sustainability, andam committed to embracing and supporting the mechanisms necessary to make ourcommunity more livable and environmentally efficient.

I am well aware of the efforts of cities such as Chicago, Seattle, Portland WashingtonD.C., New York, and Pasadena, which have embraced sustainability through numerousinitiatives, such as green building standards, high-performance infrastructure, energyaudits and conservation programs. I look forward to working with the AIA and the Cityin developing a vision and framework for a more sustainable Albany.

Sincerely, .)

/,(,1 /l //,-/

- t t t t ' a

John H. Rosenzweig

Gity of AlbanyCommon Gouncil

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3L--tt-*rtootlt3m Dlgrox 3ot*rnott

November 28,2006

SDAT Program Director, Center for Communities by DesignThe American Institute of Architects1735 NewYorkAvenue NWWashington, D.C. 20006-5292


On behalf of 3t architects, we are pleased to offer our support for the City of Albany's application tothe American Institute of Architects'(AIA) 2007 Sustainable Design Assessment Team Program. Werecognize the growing impoftance of sustainability, and are committed to embracing and supportingthe mechanisms necessary to make our community more livable and environmentally efficient.

We are well aware of the efforts of cities such as Chicago, Seattle, Poftland, Washington D.C., NewYor( and Pasadena, which have embraced sustainability through numerous initiatives, such as greenbuilding standards, high-peformance infrastructure, and energy audits and conseruation programs,and we look fonruard to working with the AIA and the City in developing a vision and framework for amore sustainable Albany.

We've proudly offered our support and assistance through the application process and are eager tolend our expeftise to the assessment and implementation process.

I'nJ(vaf raitey, nIf Qruu3t architects \-/

@3tarrhitects.com418 BRoADwAy ALBAily, ilEw voRK tzzol pH 518 6i8 ogoo Fx 5tB 618 o9o1

Department of Geography and PlanningUniversity at Albany, SUNY1400 Washington AvenueAlbany, New York 12222

November 27,2006



I wish to express to you my strong support for the City of Albany's application to theAmerican Institute of Architects' (AIA) 2007 Sustainable Design Assessment TeamProgram. The University at Albany's Masters degree program in urban planningrecognizes the importance of moving toward a more sustainable pattern;f developmentin-New York's Capital District region, and is committed to working with the CitaofAlbany and other entities to take the steps necessary to make our commurrity more livableand environmentally effrcient.

In our graduate and undergraduate courses, we make students aware of the efForts ofcities such as Chicago, Chattanooga, Seattle, Portland, Washington D.C., and pasaden4which have embraced sustainability through numerous initiativis, such as green buildingstandards, high-performance infrastructure, energy audits and conservation programs. Inthe same spirit, faculty and sfudents in our program are in the process of developing plansto make the UAlbany Uptown campus more pedestrian and transit-friendly, and toestablish a bus rapid transit line connecting the Uptown UAlbany campus to downtownAlbany and intermediate destinations. We look forward to working with the AIA and thecity in developing a vision and framework for a more sustainable Atburrv.

Sincerely,

Via email

Gene Bunnell, Ph.D., AICPAssociate Professor

Albany Housin Authori

November 21,2006

SDAT Program Director, Center for Communities by DesignThe American Institute of Architects1735 New York Avenue NWWashington, D.C. 20006 -5292


On behalf of the Albany Housing Authority, I am pleased to offer my support for the Cityof Albany's application to the American Institute of Architects' tAfal ibOZ SustainafteDesign Assessment Team Program. AHA recognizes the growing importance ofsustainability, and we are committed to embraclng and zupporti"g

-the mechanisms

necessary to make our community more livable and environmentally efficient.

We are well aware of the efforts of cities such as Chicago, Seattle, portland, WashingtonD.C., New' York, and Pasadena, which have embraced sustainability through nu*..io*initiatives, such as green building standards, high-performance infrastructure-, and enerryaudits and conservation programs, and we look forward to working with the AIA and thecity in developing a vision and framework for a more sustainabte etbany.

Sincerely,

ALBANY HOUSING AUTHOzuTY

@ttDarren J. Scott, AICP

Steven T. Longo. Executive DirectorBary J. Romano - Deputy Director

200 s. Pearl st.,Albanyo Newyork 12202 (51s) 64r-7s00

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OLOGY PARK

George E. Pataki, Governor

John C. Egan, Chairman

F. Michael Tucker , President

Ex-0ffiiio Board Menbers

Charles A. Gargano

Gerald D. Jennings

Danie l D. Hogan

Kermit L. Hal l , Ph.D.

Board Menbers

Maureen F. Harris, Esq.

Daniel J. Hogarty

Ala in E. Kaloyeros, Ph.D.

Kel ly Lovel l

November 21,2006


Dear SDAT Program Review. Committee :

On behalf of Haniman Research and Technology Developmentcorporation (HRTDC), we are pleased to offer our support for the cityof Albany's application to the American Institute of Architects' (AIA)2007 Sustainable Design Assessment Team Program. HRTDCrecognizes the growing importance of sustainability, and we arecommitted to embracing and supporting the mechanisms necessary tomake our community more livable and environmentally effrcient.

FIRTDC is a subsidiary of Empire State Development Corporation(ESDC) responsible for the redevelopment of the 300-acre W.A.Ha:riman State Office Campus into a world-class research andtechnology park to promote economic development and job growth inNew York's Capital Region.

We are well aware of the efforts of cities such as Chicago, Seattle,Portland, Washington D.C., New York, and Pasadena, which haveembraced sustainability through ilrmerous initiatives, such as greenbuilding standards, high-performance infrastructure, and energy auditsand conservation programs, and we look forward to working with theAIA and the City in developing a vision and framework for a moresustainable Albanv.

F. Michael TuckerPresidentHarriman Res earch and Technolo gy Development Corporation

OmniIfousing Development LLC4O Beaver Street, Albany, New york 12207 . tEIg) 452.4O0O

fax: (5lB) 4SZAS45 . www.omnihousing.com

Nove,mber 27,2W6

SDAT Program Director, Center for Communities by DesignThe American Institute of Architects1735 New York Ave,lrue NWWashington, D.C. 2OW6-5292


on behalf of omni Housing Developme,nt LLC, I am pleased to offer my support for thecity of Albany's application to the American Institutsof Architects, (eia) ioozSustainable Desigr Assessment Team Program. Omni Housing reoognizes the growingirnportance of sustainability, md we are committed to enrbraciig and supportin! themechanisrns necessary to make our community more livable and'environunentafiyefficient.

We are well aware of the efforts of cities such as Chicago, Seattle, portland, WashingtonD.C., New Yortq and Pasaden4 which have embraced sustainabitity trrougir oo*ooiu,initiatives, such as green building standards, high-performance infrastructrire, and e,nerryaudits and conservation programs, and we look fonrard to working with the itA, unA A"city in developing a vision and framework for a more sustainable Albanv.

Duncancoo

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Frcdd BrewcrLurk Strect BID245 l*rk SrreerAlbnny, NY l?Z tO

Larh Stroer Neighhorhoort Dislr ict Mrnr0omont As8ocirt ionphonc 5l8,4i4.Ji6l r f6s i l8.{31.4052 r

r 245 Lnrk Stroot r Albany, No.w !1;rk r??10E.rnl l l www.lorkstreet.org

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rfr'o Hc,qrt ofAllany

.S*DAI Progrum Dircctor, Center for Comn:unities by Dcsign'fhe American Institute of Architects

173-5 New York Avenue NWWashington, D.C. ZCf,f,l1-S}gz

Dear SDAT Progrnnr Ravicw Committee:

on behalf of thc Larkstreet Business Inrprovcnrcnt District, I unr plclr,r.rl to rrl'lcr.rrrr.lYtq?tllthe City ol'Albany's applicution to the Americun Instirutr., ,rt'Are trirc'.irrl

'{AIA) 2007 susrninabre. Design Aiiessmenr Td; p;g;i;;, Thc r-lrk srrr,g gtt.)rccognizcs thc importancc of-.rustainability and is .o*iniit*t't to thc prirrcilrlt'. 'l'..irt.iirl!'quity, cnvironmcntal rcspcct and economic.strcngth ir;;; support of rhc c,,.,t,iti,,,,, .,iour community.

Wc are ilwanc of the cfforts of cities .such m Chicago, $euttlc, porrllrttl. \\i.rs5ilutt,,rr l).(.Ond New York, lo ernbrace sustainability, through irmerous initiutivcs. sr,r,,jtr ir\ srr.r.r'lbttilding standilrd$. high-pcrformance irrfiostruclur*, uno an*,.gy uudits 1r.r(l (.{rr.r\r,i-r.irri,,rlprogritm$' We look foyard to workiirg with the aiA :rnd the' -Ciry

ot'.,\lt.:rn1, irrdcvcloping n vision und framcwork for a morc sustninahlc Alhany crlrrrr'urrii_r,.

Sincerely,

D O W N T O W i l A t B A i l YB u s i n e s s l m p r o v e m e n t D i s t r i c t

522 BroadwayAlbany, NY 122A7p 518.465.2143f 518.465.0139www. downtownal bany. org

Pamela M. TobinEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Tom BirdseyCHAIRMAN

Charles CarrowVICE€HAIRMAN

Lauretta ChrysTREASURER

Tracy MeEgerSECRETARY

27 November 2005

SDAT Program DirectorCenter for Communities by DesignThe American lnstitute of Architects1735 New York Avenue NWWashington, D.C. 2W6-5292


On behalf of the Downtown Atbany Business lmprovement District Board ofDirectors, I am pleased to offer our support for the City of Albany's application tothe American lnstitute of Architects' (AlA) 2007 Sustainable Design Assessment TeamProgram. The Doruntown Albany BID recognizes the gror,ving importance ofsustainability, and we are committed to embracing and supporting the mechanismsnecessary to make our community more livable and environmentally efficient,

The SDAT program is based on a similar premises of the Business lmprovementDistrict whereby partnerships are forged with stakehotders and community leadersto advance the vision for a sustainable 24/7 community. We are curently in theproceti of working with a consultant in conjunction with Albany Convention CenterAuthority to assist in shaping the community's stratqg-y to dwelop economicgenerators linking the ns,ry convention center with the existing dourntown fabricthus identifying opportunities to increase sustainability.

We are well aware of the efforts of cities such as Chicago, Seattle, Portland,Washington D.C., Neur York, and Pasadena, which have embraced sustainabilitythrough numerous initiatives, such as green building standards, high-performanceinfrastructur€, and energy audits and conservation programs, and we look forwardto working with the AIA and the City in dweloping a vision and framework for amore sustainable Albany.

The Downtown Albany BID strongly supports City of Albany's apptication to theAmerican lnstitute of Architects' (AlA) 2OO7 Sustainable Design Assessment TeamProgram.

ambla Tdbiny'Executive Director

f

entna u$ness

November 28,2006



On behalf of The Central District Management Association, Inc. (the Central AvenueBusiness Improvement DistricQ, I am pleased to offer olr support for the City ofAlbany's application to the American Institute of Architects' (AIA) 2007 SustainableDesign Assessment Team Program. The CDMA, Inc. recognizes the growing importanceof sustainability, and has been committed to and has embraced and supported themechanisms necessary to make our community more livable and environmentallyefficient.

We are well aware of the efforts of cities such as Chicago, Seattle, Portland, WashingtonD.C., New York, and Pasadena, which have embraced sustainability through numerousinitiatives, such as green building standards, high-perfonnance infrastructure, and energyaudits and conservation programs, and we look forward to working with the AIA and thecity in developing a vision and framework for a more sustainable Albanv.

Executive DirectorCentral District Management Association, Inc.

176 Central Avenue, Albany, New York '12206 - Phone: 518-462-43Oo . Fax: 518-462-2609 . www.centralbid.com

"Making Central Albany a Better place to Live, Work & Visi t"

ALBANY

P p r s E R v E C o l u u t s s r o N

CouMrssror{ MeMsens .

Steven G. SchasslerRegional DirectorNYS Department ofEnvironmentalConservation

Bernadette CastroCommissionerNYS Office of Park,Recreation andHistoric Preseruation

Andy BeenDeputy Directorjlhe Nature Conservancl 0fNew York Stale

Jerry.JenningsMayorCity of Albany

Mary E. BrizzellSupenisorTown of Colonie

Ken RunionSuperisorTown ofGuilderland

Michael G. BreslinCounty Execut.iveCounty of Albany

Harvey Jay Alexander, Ph.D.Citizen Representative

Steven Rice, Ph.D.Citizen Representative

Aaron MairCitizen Representative

John BrutCorporate Liaison

Christopher A. HawerExEcurrvE DrREcroR

November 22.2006

SDAT Progra4 Director, Center for Communities by DesignThb American institute of Architects1735 New York Avenue NWWashington, D.C. 200 06-5292


On behalf of,the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission, I am pleased to offer mysupport for the City of Albany's application to the American Institute of Architects2(AIA) 2007 Sustainable Design Assessment Team Program. The commissionrecognizes the growing importance of sustainability, and we are committed toembracing and supporting the mechanisms necessaryto make our community morelivable and environmentally efficient.

we are well aware of the efforts of cities such as chicago, seattle, Poitland,Washington D.C., New York, and Pasadena, which have embraced sustainabiljtythrough numerous initiatives, such as green building standards, high-performanceinfrastructure, and energy audits and conservation programs, and we look forward toworking with the AIA and the City in developing a vision and fraqework for a moresustainable Albany.

Sincerely,'*l{i

1 9 5 N E w K n p N e p R o R D . A l n e " x v , N e i p Y o p r 1 2 2 0 5 . 5 1 8 . 4 5 6 . 0 6 5 5 .

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f; 100% Recycled Paper

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CAPITAL DISTRICT TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE

ChairmanMalor John T, McDonald III

StaffDirectorfohn P. Poomun

Albany CountyMi.chaelG. Breslin

Charbs E. Eoughtaling

Renssclaer CountyI(ahlcen JiminoNeil J, Kelleher

Saratoga CountyHarrl Gutheil

RobertL Phillips

Schenectady CountySumn E. Savage

Kent Gray

City of AlbanyMalorGeraU D. Jennings

City of CohoesMalor John T. McDonaU III

City of MechanicvilleMajor Anthon! I. Sylvester

City ofRensselaerMayor Daniel J. Dvyer

City of Sarotoga SpringsMayorValerie Keehn

City ofSchenectadyMoyor Brian U, Stattort

City of TroyMayor Hatry J. Tutunjian

City of WetervlietMayor Robert D. Cadson

Town ofColonieMary BrizzeU

Towns and VillagesThere sa Egan" Bethlchem

Beth Senr, SchodaekAlternat€s

Phifu Barrefr, Cli{ton Park

Albany CormtyAirport Authority

John O'Donnell

Albany PortDistrict Conmission

Tenence P. Hurlcy

Capital District RegionalPlanning Commission

Michael Statnmel

Capital DistrictTransportation Authority

RaymondJ. Melleady

New York State DepL ofTransportation

Thomas f. Madison, Jr.

New York StateThruway Authority

WillianD.NnaHi

Non-Voting Members

Thomas C. WemcrNYSDOT Reg. 1

IztitiaThompson, FTA

Robert E. ArnoW, FHWA

One Park Place, Main Floor o Albany, NY 12205-2676 Phone: (518) 458-2161Fax: (518) 459-2155www.cdtcmpo.org e - mail : c dt c @ c dtc mp o - o rg

November 28, 2006

SDAT Program Director, center for communit ies by DesignThe American Insti tute of Architectsl-735 New York Avenue NWWash ing t ,on , D . C . 20OO 6 -5292


The Capital Distr ict Transportation Committee (CDTC) is thedesignated Metropoli tan planning Organization (MpO) carryingout federal reguirements for cooperative transportationplanning and programming in Albany, Rensselaer, saratogaand Schenectady Counties in New york State.

CDTC is pleased to offer support for the City of Albany, sapplication to the Amerj-can rnsti tute of Architects, (ArA)2007 Sust,ainable Design Assessment Team program. CDTCrecognizes the growing importance of sustainabil i ty, and iscommitted to embracing and supporting the mechanismsnecessary to help shape communities into more livabte andenvironmental ly eff icient places.

we are werl aware of the efforts of cit ies such as chicago,Seat . t1e, Por t land, Washington D.C. , New york, and pasadena,which have embraced sustainability through numerousinit iat ives, such as green building standards, high-performance infrastrucLure, energiy audits and conservationprograms, and look forward to working with the ArA and theCity in developing a vision and framework for a moresustainable Albanv.

PoormanStaf f Di rector

Albany Planning Department Report

Documents

Transcript of Albany Planning Department Report