Spring / Summer 2015 | Issue 1
albany digest DOWNTOWN
A publication of the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District
Fans poured into the Times Union Center this year to see NCAA games. Photo credit: Scott Zido
in this issue... pages 5 Arts and Entertainment in Downtown
page 7 Living Downtown
pages 8-12 New Downtown Businesses
page 13 Enhancing the District
page 15 Featured Properties
and more...
HONORABLE KATHY M. SHEEHAN, MAYOR CITY OF ALBANY In some neighborhoods, they mark the arrival of spring with robins, crocuses, and forsythia, but in downtown Albany, the season announces itself differently: with pedestrians strolling rather than huddling down the street and diners seeking a sidewalk cafe rather than a seat inside. We also look forward to the weekly farmers market at SUNY Plaza moving outdoors as well as Alive at Five, which draws thousands to the Downtown and riverfront. This year, another sign of spring is the Albany Capital Center, the new convention center, which will begin to rise soon and is scheduled to open in early 2017. When it’s finished, many new migrations will be made into the Capital City, as it’s expected to draw tens of thousands of annually. As work continues in Downtown, we have the opportunity to connect all these amenities to all that Downtown has to offer: historical sites, museums, and unique places to eat and gather, from the neighborhood pub to the dozens of eateries unique to Albany. So if you live in Albany, or are in town for a vacation, be sure to help us spread the good news about what’s here – and what’s to come. Kind regards,
Hon. Kathy M. Sheehan | Mayor, City of Albany
GEORGETTE STEFFENS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR What an incredible year 2014 turned out to be! We saw the continued conversions of underutilized office buildings into luxury apartments, new tenants moving into SUNY Polytechnic’s Smart Cities Technology Innovation Center (SCiTI) at Keirnan Plaza, construction began on the Rennisance by Marriott located at the former DeWitt Cliniton Hotel, and new life brought back into Wellington Row. And who can forget the excitiment last summer with the implosion of the Wellington Annex building, which became international news, making way for the new convention center. This unprecidented level of development adds up to $180 million of investment, 87,000 projected visitors, over 680 permenent jobs with several hundred construction jobs, and 120 new residential units. These major investments are shaping the direction of the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District (BID) with the Board implementing the following strategic moves for 2015: n Held the BID special assessment rate steady for a third year in a row n Office relocated to 21 Lodge Street – home of Capitalize Albany Corporation - which will allow better communication and synergy in moving forward the Impact Downtown Albany study recommendations n Streamlined operations for higher efficiency and effectiveness n Created a new budgetary line item to fund brick and mortar strategic initiatives/projects to offer ammenities residents and visitors alike will be expecting when living or attending conventions in Downtown The Board and I are excited about the impact these changes will have for our businesses, property owners, and residents of Downtown. We look forward to more groundbreakings and ribbon cuttings in 2015. Sincerely,
© Julia Zave
downtownalbany.org
Georgette Steffens | Executive Director
DABID NEWS
Rendering of the Albany Capital Center, courtesy of the Albany Convention Center and Visitors Bureau.
new Albany Capital Center Construction began in March 2015 on the Albany Capital Center, the new 82,000-square-foot convention center located on the corner of Howard and Eagle Streets. Slated to open in the beginning of 2017, when combined with the Times Union Center and the Empire State Plaza, the complex will be the State’s largest convention center facility at 159,000-square-feet. SMG, the international firm that currently manages the Times Union Center, was awarded the contract to also operate the Albany Capital Center. Mazzone Hospitality, parent company of Angelo’s 677 Prime and 90 State Events in Downtown, will provide catering for the facility. The $66.5 million Albany Capital Center will host over 200 events annually, bringing an estimated 87,000 visitors per year, who will
add $6.6 million to the local economy and 40,000 additional hotel nights. Visitors will add $6.6 million to the local economy and 40,000 additional hotel nights. The facility itself will create 157 full-time jobs and over 300 construction jobs. All of this is great news for Downtown and the region. As construction continues, the Albany Convention Center Authority will work with the Construction Manager, the State, the County, and the City to minimize impacts to the businesses and residents. If you have any questions or experience any issues regarding construction you may contact the Albany Convention Center Authority directly at 518.275.4920 or by email at info@accany.com.
Downtown Represented in 40 Under 40 Class The 2015 class of 40 Under 40 was announced by the Albany Business Review in March, and nine organizations within our District are represented. It is exciting news, though not surprising says Georgette Steffens, BID executive director. “The number of Downtown businesses represented in this year’s 40 Under 40 class comes as no surprise to us,” she says. “This District continues to attract and retain world-class businesses and employees, and this recognition continues to prove that. Congratulations to all members of this year’s class.” The employees who work in our District are as follows: n Leah Bojnowski | Nixon Peabody | 677 Broadway nO wen Burns | New York Business Development Corporation | 50 Beaver Street n Daniel Fariello | Capital Bank | 132 State Street nE lizabeth Grogran | Wilson Elser Moskowitz Edelman & Dicker | 677 Broadway
n Aaron Mensh | Couch White LLP | 540 Broadway n Sarah Reginelli | Capitalize Albany Corporation | 21 Lodge Street n Omar Usmani | Aeon Nexus Corporation | Wellington Row, State Street n Brian Viglucci | Ama Cocina | Sheridan Avenue From one BID to another, our congratulations to Molly Belmont, marketing and communications director at the Central Avenue BID, who is also among this year’s honorees. For more information on all of the businesses you’ll find in Downtown, visit downtownalbany.org.
n Tim Hoefer | Empire Center for Public Policy | 100 State Street 3
DOWNTOWN FINANCE
Dollars and Sense in Downtown Since as far back as the 1800s Albany has been headquarter to a number of financial institutions. Decades ago, banks were housed in some of the most luxurious spaces in Downtown - many of which are now event venues or upscale residential units; today, while their appearances might be slightly more modest, the services offered by the many credit unions and banks in our District are state of the art. Within the last few months, Downtown has seen Kinderhook Bank open its first Albany branch on N Pearl Street, Capital Bank moved its regional headquarters to the newly renovated Wellington Row, and SEFCU opened its corporate headquarters in Kiernan Plaza. The trend is no coincidence. Representatives from all three financial institutions cite the growth of Downtown as one of the reasons they decided to relocate, or open, in our District. Being in the heart of the City for ongoing progress - including residential development and the Albany Capital Center - is only one reason though; each institution expresses wanting to be an active part of Downtown’s future. Anders Tomson, president of Capital Bank, notes the decision to move to Wellington Row was made after a close look at business objectives, wanting to increase visibility, and the strong desire to be a part of what is happening in Downtown. Having relocated from another spot in Albany, Tomson says “We were willing to come Downtown if we could be part of a transformational project and could have a meaningful role in that transformational project. Our goal was not to get buried or hidden in an office building, and we want to be part of the progress of the community in a visible way.” Jeff Stone, senior vice president at Kinderhook Bank, offered a similar sentiment. The Columbia County-based community bank has been in business for 150 years, but only recently started moving into the Capital District; the Downtown branch marks their seventh as an organization. “I’ve always been of the opinion that if you want to be a player in the Capital Region, you really should be in the Capital City,” says Stone. “The future of downtown Albany is very bright, and we want to not only be a part of it, but also be a catalyst to help.” Stone notes the bank’s strong tradition of serving the community, a trait which all three financial institutions that have expanded into Downtown highlight. The president and CEO of SEFCU, Michael Castellana, views the credit union’s move to Downtown not just as important, but as an “obligation.” “It’s going to take organizations to step up and realize that we have to invest in Albany for Albany to reach its potential. For us, the move down here was symbolic but very tangible gesture to say this was where we started, and we are going to be here and stay here,” he says. “Businesses far too often operate with the wrong success metrics; they don’t see that they are an inextricable part of the community. If we all step up and support the communities in the way that we can, not only is it right for the community, but it’s right for your business as well.” Why should the layperson pay attention to financial institutions expanding into, or opening in, Downtown? Castellana says it’s indicative of a trend. continued on page 6 downtownalbany.org
DOWNTOWN TALENT
World-class Talent Right in Your Backyard As Downtown prepares to welcome the 120 residential units slated to come online this year alone, and watches as work continues at the Capital Center, Wellington Row and Renaissance by Marriott, it will only become more important that we share what arts and entertainment options are available to residents, visitors, and employees alike. Arts and entertainment are a big part of any city’s draw and with venues big and small, ranging from art exhibitions to live theatre, our District’s venues boast some world-class talent, and welcome over 700,000 visitors each year. Recently we’ve seen Justin Timberlake, Sir Paul McCartney, Cirque du Soleil and more make stops in at the Times Union Center and Palace Theatre; Capital Repertory Theatre brought to life The Secret Garden, and Smokey Joe’s Café, and gave life to the world-premier of How Water Behaves; Albany Center Gallery has been home to local and internationally-known artists and the Albany Symphony Orchestra announced their 2015-16 season which includes musicians of the same caliber. Some of those acts are easily recognizable, yet there are times when you might not recognize the talent you see before your very eyes. “Our proximity to New York City gives us great access to top of the line talent,” says Maggie Mancinelli-Cahill, producing artistic director at Capital Repertory Theatre. What draws actors who have performed on Broadway to Albany? Great parts, she says. “The roles that we can offer to a professional actor are fabulous. We do great stories, we do great literature, great musicals, things that people from NY want to be in. There’s an excitement to the kind of programming that we do that makes it very attractive to New York City performers.” Likewise, just down the street from TheREP, inside Albany Center Gallery you’ll find artists who also exhibit in London. “Part of what I do here is to let people know how talented and important these artists are, and they live in this area,” says Tony Iadicicco, executive director of the Albany Center Gallery. For both Iadicicco and Mancinelli-Cahill, seeing people react to the art before them brings a humanness that we don’t necessarily see on a regular basis. With technology taking over so many of our lives, both say that engaging in art allows, and encourages, a common experience.
Those joint experiences are also found, albeit on a larger scale, at Downtown’s Palace Theatre and Times Union Center. Both venues have experienced growth recently, with the former having seen its third straight year of profit in 2014 and the latter adding $400,000 to the Albany County economy last year. Holly Brown, executive director of the Palace Theatre, says it is not just the bond that arts, entertainment and cultural venues create between people and their community that make them important to any area – but also their economic drive. “Arts and culture are known to be one of the top five drivers that attract people to a community and retain them when they relocate,” Brown says. “This is of value as the Tech Valley sector and other industries continue to grow and flourish here.” Pair the anticipated growth of Downtown population and amenities with what already exists and you get an especially exciting few years. “I don’t think there’s ever been a time, in the history of our City, that’s got a more exciting opportunity for transformation and change than the next two to three years,” says Bob Belber, SMG regional general manager at the Times Union Center. continued on page 6
arts and entertainment in the district: Albany Center Gallery 39 Columbia Street albanycentergallery.org
Palace Theatre 19 Clinton Avenue palacealbany.com
Albany Symphony Orchestra 19 Clinton Avenue albanysymphony.com
Times Union Center 51 S Pearl Street timesunioncenter-albany.com
Confetti Stage 67 Corning Place confettistage.org 5
DOWNTOWN LIVING
look up: Downtown Residential is on the Rise Since 2005 downtown Albany has realized $30 million in residential conversion project, resulting in 250 market rate units. In this year alone there are over 120 residential units coming online totaling investments of $20 million. They are as follows: nT he Arcade Building – on the corner of Maiden Lane and Broadway at 488 Broadway these 60 units will have one of the best views in Downtown. Floor to ceiling windows overlook Jim DiNapoli Park and/or the Hudson River. They are also above the only arcade style retail in Downtown. Units will be available for occupancy June 1, 2015. Contact Alexandra at 518.512.3693. nT he Argus Apartments – located at 412 Broadway, the developer was intentional to highlight the architectural elements throughout the 32 units originally brought back to life by the previous owners, an internationally renowned architectural firm. Exposed brick, beams, and archways set
DOLLARS AND SENSE (continued from page 4) “We’re seeing the urbanization of America,” he says. “The trends have completely reversed. It’s a population shift that’s moving back into our cities for a whole host of reasons, and it’s not specific to one demographic group.” It’s younger people who want to be in a vibrant area, empty nesters who are coming back to cities from the suburbs, and everyone in between. That population shift will in turn be a means for further retail development, says Stone, noting that a lot of Kinderhook Bank’s strength comes from commercial real estate lending. “That residential development will be a catalyst for further retail development. We just want to be a part of that growth,” Stone says. “If you really look at the number of people who work in Downtown, it’s tremendous. We see really good opportunity for growth there.” Between the recent SEFCU, Capital Bank, and Kinderhook Bank moves, roughly 100 jobs have been added to Downtown. Tomson, Stone, and Castellana all say that the reaction of employees has been a positive one. “Uniformly (our employees) were excited to come Downtown,” Tomson says. “I am a big advocate of downtown Albany. I’ve downtownalbany.org
this building apart from traditional cookie cutter apartment complexes. Units became available March 1, 2015. Contact Stefanie Botticelli at 518.371.2410. n Steuben Place Apartments - located in the heart of Downtown Albany’s Historic District at 40 Steuben Place featuring 29 studio, one and two bedroom apartments: 11’ ceilings, original wood trim and wainscoting hardwood floors, large windows and fantastic views. Rent includes parking, high-speed internet, wifi, cable TV, dedicated storage room and fitness center. Now Leasing for July 2015 occupancy. Contact Lisa at 40steubenplace@gmail.com.
worked here on and off for most of my professional career. I think the quality of life is fantastic. I love the walkability of it, the diversity of people, and the ability to see different people on the street that you just don’t get in a self-contained suburban office. For us, that’s a great fit and our employees are enjoying it. I see it as a great benefit for us. “ WORLD-CLASS TALENT (continued from page 5) The arena, which is poised for a $15.7 million upgrade in the very near future, is a “quality of life engine,” he says. With the addition of the Albany Capital Center, upgrade to the Times Union Center, and connectivity to the Empire State Plaza, Belber sees a future of introducing and reintroducing people to everything that Downtown has to offer – including, he hopes, more sporting events at the arena. Part of what he hopes to offer in the near future include hosting a professional lacrosse team and the Men’s Division 1 NCAA Tournament. For the latter, he says, the addition of Renaissance by Marriott and the convention center to Downtown will put them in a much better place to bid for the event. Among the goals she has for the future of the Palace, Brown offers a sentiment that could easily be applied to Downtown as a whole: “The future holds much more, and is a bright one.”
DOWNTOWN LIVING
Available Living Spaces The addition of The Arcade Building, The Argus Apartments, and Steuben Place Apartments as residential options is great news for our District and the community at-large. Below you’ll find current availability; for a complete listing of residential projects in Downtown, please visit our website at downtownalbany.org. 83 Beaver Street | Beaver Lofts n Available 2 units n 1,034 SF - 1204 SF n Bedrooms 2 n Bathrooms 2 Price from $1,500 - $1,650 Amenities: Apartments are finished with the highest quality materials, finishes and craftsmanship. Each unit has hardwood flooring, high ceilings, gourmet kitchens with stainless steel appliances, luxurious bathrooms and in-unit washer and dryer. Larger unit has a balcony. Both indoor and outdoor parking is available on site. Contact: Daniel Oh | 518.400.0327 370 Broadway | The Meginniss Flats n Available 1 unit n 1,600 SF n Bedrooms 2 n Bathrooms 2.5 Price $1,400 Amenities: Solid cherry cabinets, 36” pantry, Gemstone Solid surface baths, Granite counter tops, 4” solid ash flooring, Cable and internet ready and washer/dryer included. Contact: Kathleen Gilboy | 518.588.2068 412 Broadway | The Argus Apartments n Availability 11 units n 1 Bedrooms 650-800 SF; 2 bedrooms 1,060-1,070 SF n Bedrooms 1-2 n Bathrooms 1 Price from $1,235 to $1,785 Amenities: On-site parking, in unit washer/dryer, stainless steel appliances, granite counters, maple cabinets, central heating and air conditioning, Elevator access. Contact | stefanie@casshilldevelopment.com 522-524 Broadway | Penta on Broadway n Availability 1 unit n 1,000 SF n Bedrooms 1 n Bathrooms 1 Price $1,005 Amenities: Granite counter tops, hardwood floors, updated appliances. Fitness room, coin op laundry and shared deck space. Off-street parking available. Pets ok. Contact: Sam Thompson | 518.331.6169
17 Chapel n Availability 2 units n For RENT | 2 bedroom, 2 full bathroom, library, 2 parking space and storage. Unit 505 is 1,605 SF at $3,500 a month. n For SALE | 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2 parking space and storage at 1,590 SF | Listed at $519,900. Contact: Kathleen Sullivan | 518.858.8403 23 N Pearl Street n Availability 2 units n 1,200 SF n Bedrooms 1 n Bathrooms 1 Price $1,100 - $1,500 Amenities: Spacious units with granite countertops, hardwood floors, washer/dryer, stainless steel appliances, central air, pre-wired for Direct TV and wireless internet. Contact: Kathleen Gilboy | 518.588.2068 or Steve Moutopoulis | 518.210.7735 The Monroe Apartments | 49 Sheridan Ave n Available 1 unit n 1,388 SF n Bedrooms 2 n Bathroom 2 Priced $1,885 Amenities: On-site parking, cable/internet included, in unit washer/dryer, stainless steel appliances, granite counters, central heating and air conditioning, elevator access, fitness center and balcony. Contact: Stefanie Botticelli | stefanie@casshilldevelopment.com Park Place at 60 State | 60 State Street n Available 2 units n 609-770 SF n Bedrooms Studio, 1 n Bathroom 1-1.5 bath Price $1,200 - $2,500 Amenities: Modern penthouse apartment is situated on two floors with luxurious finishes and high ceilings. Flexible lease options. Parking available. Contact: Tammy Fredenburg | 518.462.7411 x616 7
DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES
welcome to downtown From businesses expanding into Downtown to national trends leading a tattoo parlor growing to a larger location, our District has seen a lot of movement in the last few months. Information on businesses on the move can be found on the next few pages; for more information on these, or any other businesses in the District, visit downtownalbany.org.
Marketing Firm Expands
Welcome to Wellington Row
As part of their strategic initiatives, Lake Placid-based Adworkshop opened a satellite location in Downtown earlier this year at 90 State Street Executive Suites.
As one of the top five percent of Microsoft Dynamics partners worldwide, Aeon Nexus is determined to reach key business milestones with a high level of customer satisfaction. Positioning themselves at the newly renovated Wellington Row on State Street in Downtown is assisting in their business strategy to expand requested services while holding onto their company ideals of high integrity and saving clients money.
The move puts the marketing company closer to current and future clients, and to a pool of world-class talent. It also marks the latest company to take advantage of the non-traditional office space, from executive suites for lease to membership-based shared workspace, available in Downtown. Specializing in areas like website design and development, digital marketing, and strategic consulting, current clients, located across New York state and the Berkshires, include GORE Mountain, The Catskills Region, Health Research, Inc., and Destination Marketing Corporation for Otsego County. “The Capital Region is a strategic location for us for several reasons,” says Wendy Knight, Adworkshop senior managing director. “The Albany office puts us closer to our state-wide clients, facilitating more face-to-face interaction and better service. It also gives us a base from which to grow our business in the Capital Region and throughout New York State, particularly within the health care, higher education and tourism industries. An Albany office gives us greater flexibility in recruiting highlyskilled workers with innovative marketing experience and skills.” 90 State Street | adworkshop.com | 518.407.0018
From managing internal process solutions to innovating the next large supply chain, Aeon Nexus transforms business analytics into business intelligence for both private and government clients at the local, state and federal levels. 138 State Street | aeonnexus.com
Mexican Food Comes to Downtown Ama Cocina, a Mexican Spanish Fusion restaurant located at 4 Sheridan Avenue, is expected to open in June 2015. In Spanish “Ama” means his/her love and “Cocina” means kitchen, and the owners will display that affection for fresh, seasonal ingredients through their innovative spin on traditional Mexican dishes. The flavor profiles will be ones that defy what your taste buds expect. One highlight of the new restaurant will be the “street cart” that will offer a guacamole bar with several variations based on
downtownalbany.org
DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES
The grand opening ribbon cutting for Adworkshop, which expanded to downtown Albany this year with office space at 90 State Street Executive Suites. Learn more on page 8.
seasonal fruits, chilies, etc. with new flavors of the day. The menu will include homemade tortillas, mole, and tamale bases, and the restaurant will serve a Mexican-themed brunch. With seating for roughly 100 guests both inside and out, Ama Cocina will have a modern, industrial, urban feel. It will have the open air atmosphere created by Downtown’s first sliding garage door that opens up to the sidewalk café. Proprietors, BMT Management, who also own eight other restaurants in the City of Albany including Juniors, The Point and Café Madison, are thrilled to be investing in downtown Albany. “We were drawn by their great neighbors in the restaurants and theaters surrounding them,” stated Jessica Evans, Ama Cocina manager. “We believe that Downtown is on the cusp of becoming incredible and want to be part of that growth.” 4-6 Sheridan Avenue | facebook.com/amacocina.albany 518.729.2723
Classbook Grows Services It’s a statewide initiative aimed at bringing new and growing businesses into upstate New York, and last fall Downtown welcomed our first START-UP NY business as Classbook (formerly Classbook. com) expanded to 418 Broadway. Opening in 1992 in Castleton, NY, the company began as a textbook retailer that catered to mostly private schools as an outsourced bookstore. Since 2011, the company has been offering eBooks, a move that has carried them into further success, according to a spokesperson.
of two services that Classbook provides, is comprised of a team of consultants and advisors who work with districts to shift into “the 21st century complete digital learning environment,” says the spokesperson. Classbook is developing a relationship with SUNY Albany in which the two will perform research on digital technology and the best options for schools. OpenRoom only just recently launched and is focused on local schools for the time being. The company as a whole, however, serves customers across the country with the highest concentration in New England and down the East Coast. “We’re not helping teachers do their jobs, because they are the experts at their jobs,” the spokesperson says, “we’re helping them understand the tools and resources available to them. They know there are so many things out there and it can kind of get overwhelming. We just want to make sure that it’s the best experience for everyone.” 418 Broadway | classbook.com
Cricket Anyone? Cricket Wireless has just moved into the downtown Albany market providing customers with a wide variety of prepaid voice, text and data plans to choose from without the hassle of annual contracts. Conveniently located on North Pearl Street, Cricket Wireless prides itself with focusing on the customer and delivering value without compromise. Stop in and see for yourself what they are all about. 25 N Pearl Street | cricketwireless.com
It is that digital transformation which led them to Downtown, where the 17 employees based at the 2,800-square-foot Broadway location focus on digital consultation for schools. OpenRoom, one
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DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES
The ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration for Modern Body Art, which expanded into a larger location. Learn more on page 11.
Order Up Now under the woman-owned proprietorship of Dawn Lynch, the new Downtown eatery Dawn’s Victory Sports Café is home to inventive daily specials and pre-event buffets. Located in the heart of Downtown, with neighboring the Palace Theatre and the Capital Repertory Theatre just a few steps away, the Café is positioning itself to be one of the best kept secrets in Albany. 10 Sheridan Avenue | 518.463.9113 | thevictorycafe.com
Going up! Elevise Media Corporation has established their presence in downtown Albany, offering 21st Century high-impact elevator advertising. Located at 11 North Pearl Street, Elevise can increase your company’s exposure to a captive audience with the use of their vibrant print ads. With several media boards currently installed in high-rise elevators, Elevise has already begun forming valuable partnerships with Downtown businesses and organizations. 11 N Pearl Street | 518.593.4474 | elevisemedia.com
Clothing, Accessories Store Relocates to Coliseum A new option for accessories and clothing has opened in Downtown, this time in the Albany Coliseum at 153 S Pearl Street. Fashions Unique, owned by husband and wife James H. Gardiner and Charlie Mae Shipmon-Gardiner was formerly located on Delaware Avenue, but moved to revitalize their business and attract new customers. “We provide an elegant look for consumers at a reasonable price,” says Gardiner. The couple says they are looking for more than just building their business, though; they are also excited to be an active part of the community, and to collaborate with other business owners. “We love the camaraderie we see at the Coliseum,” says ShipmonGardiner. “Each business promotes the others, and we actively collaborate with each other.” Stop in Fashions Unique for clothing, purses, jewelry and more. 153 S Pearl Street | 518.512.3044
We Want to Know If your business or organization is located in the BID district, email us at info@downtownalbany.org with your news, events and updates.
downtownalbany.org
DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES
Partners at Lacey Thaler Architecture Preservation, LLC loving their new Downtown space.
Now Serving Crepes It didn’t take long for people to discover The French Press Café & Creperie. Located at 5 Clinton Square, the eatery offers a full tantalizing menu consisting of crepes, coffee, tea, soups and desserts.
commercial clients. Projects include work at Cornell University, a historic smokehouse in Maryland, Ellis Island and at the Washington Park Playhouse. Currently, many projects are close to home, says Partner Mark Thaler, but there are plans to expand. “We’re working on expanding the horizon, that’s why we got the bigger space,” he says.
For owner Morgan Pellitteri, the idea to open the business was literally a dream. He dreamt one night of a French press, and four months later his creperie was born.
79 N Pearl Street | 518.375.1485 | laceythaler.com
Savory and sweet crepe options are available, or you can build your own with ingredients such as Nutella, berries, chicken and turkey. So far, Pellitteri says, the most popular crepe is Tuscan Summer, made with pesto, fresh mozzarella and oven roasted chicken.
Express Yourself
“I feel very lucky that my dream came to fruition so quickly,“ Pellitteri says. “I look around the café and see it as a great opportunity for myself and the community. I have one approach to things: If it’s not good enough for me and my family, it’s not good enough for you. It’s the hard way, but it’s satisfying, and it’s what I want our customers to expect from us.” 5 Clinton Square | 518.275.0478 | frenchpresscafeandcrepes.com
Building Up in New Location It was a need for bigger space and a desire to be Downtown that led Lacey Thaler Architecture Preservation, LLC, to move from upper State Street to N Pearl Street. When the decision was made to relocate from their 700-squarefoot office space, the firm looked exclusively in Downtown; what they found at 79 N Pearl Street was roughly 2,400-square-feet. Principal Daniel Wilson, AIA, says it was the character and architecture of the space that really drew them in. With expertise and experience in preservation, adaptive reuse and contextual additions, the four Principals and Partners bring large-firm experience to a small-firm approach; they have worked with higher education, governmental, institutional, religious and
To meet growing national tattoo trends, Modern Body Art recently expanded to a larger space in Downtown. Previously located on Howard Street, owner William “Tragedy” Yager relocated the business just around the corner to 7 S Pearl Street. The move from its former location meant growing from 5500-square-feet to 500-square-feet and has allowed the business to add more space for merchandise, increased privacy and space for tattoo design, consultation and application as well as individuals getting body piercings. While historically many people have chosen pieces to differentiate themselves, Yager notes an uptick in what he calls “new tradition” tattoo business – groups who are having matching pieces done to commemorate a life event, memorialize a person, or anything in between. “I have invested my entire life into downtown Albany, and over the course of the last five years I have turned Modern Body Art into a state-of-the-art facility with all of the latest accoutrements and sterilization technology available, all so that our clients can be confident they are patronizing the best tattoo shop” says Yager, who also owns Patsy’s Barbershop and Patsy’s Pinups. “Our award-winning and nationally-recognized artists elevate Modern Body Art, and that is something we truly pride ourselves on.” 7 S Pearl Street | 518.426.8282 | albanymodernbodyart.com
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DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES
The manicure stations inside Tantrums Spa Boutique, LLC. Learn more about the new business below.
Add Some Beauty to Your Day
to the community and lending a helping hand, Tantrums also teams with local schools, hospitals and non-profit organizations for events.
The owner of Shekinah Beauty gave herself a great Christmas present in 2014 – moving her business to Downtown. Salon owner Lurissa Lawson relocated her business from Washington Avenue to 154 Madison Avenue, and opened in the new spot on the day after Christmas.
118 Broadway | 518.506.3133 | tantrumsspaexperience.com
Lawson, who’s been a stylist for about 20 years, says hair is her absolute passion. “One of my favorite things to see is the smile on a satisfied customer! When you look good you feel good, and healthy hair is the first step to a greater you!” Specializing in natural hair care and weave installation, the salon also offers a wide range of services from cut and styling to treatment services and bridal packages. 154 Madison Avenue | 518.250.8147 | facebook.com/ShekinaBeauty
The Spa Experience – for Girls 17 and Under Manicures. Pedicures. Age-appropriate up-do’s and makeovers. You’ll find all that and more at Tantrums Spa Boutique, LLC – but for owner Nicole Chandler, it’s not just about the dressing up and getting pampered, it’s about encouraging youth to strengthen relationships with each other, building confidence and self-esteem for girls age 17 and younger. Tantrums offers children spa parties at their Madison Avenue location, or in your home, hotel or selected venue. With a full range of services and packages available, you can choose to build your own custom party or choose from packages from Girls Just Wanna Have Fun to the Ultimate Spa Experience. As part of their goal of teaching kids the importance of giving back
downtownalbany.org
Upside to Everything When Upside Collective, a full service marketing agency, decided it was time to strategically position themselves, their first and last stop searching for a new office, was downtown Albany. The space at 80 State Street offered a sophisticated mix of glass and light, affording many of the firm’s team individual windows to peer out on the happenings of Downtown’s streets below. Because of the nature of their digital and technology services, face time with clients has become increasingly important to the firm. Being in a larger office in Downtown has also strategically positioned them to bring on additional new clients, offering enhanced in-house capabilities, such as video production, animation and photography expertise. And the team loves being Downtown. According to Brendan Casey, partner, “the Upside Collective team, 23 in all, compares notes on lunch places, run errands like banking and the post office and to a T loves working in Downtown. The space represent us more appropriately, I think the employees have tremendous sense of pride and energy when they come in each day.” 80 Sate Street | 518.370.0108 | upsidecollective.com
DOWNTOWN ALBANY BID
Holiday lights were placed throughout the District, in addition to garland and bows that were placed on light polls.
enhancing the district The Beat of Downtown In 2011, the Albany Police Department established a new beat patrol initiative in order to restore community policing within different neighborhoods throughout the City. The Neighborhood Engagement Unit consists of officers who patrol their beats by bicycle or on foot in order to connect and develop vital partnerships within the community. Since 2011, the unit has grown and there are now two daytime and two nighttime neighborhood officers assigned to patrol downtown Albany. These four beat officers have over 63 combined years on the force and provide safety while improving the quality of life for those who reside, work and visit our Capital City.
Farmers Market The Downtown Albany Farmers Market is gearing up for its spring return to the outdoors at SUNY Plaza and has plans to host special market days including a variety of programming for the upcoming season. The market bustled this fall and winter while indoors, as it marked its first year as a four-season farmers market. With an ever-growing group of vendors who offer fresh produce, flowers and plants, breads and cheeses, local cider, wine and a variety of prepared foods, it’s easy to see why folks stroll down
to the market during their lunch breaks. Open Thursdays from 11:00AM to 2:00PM and located conveniently at SUNY Plaza, it’s a convenient walking destination and a great way to support local growers and small businesses. Come on down and be a part of the neighborhood.
Clean Team Ambassador Program In December 2014, through a competitive RFP process, ABM Janitorial Services was once again awarded the cleaning services contract for the Downtown Albany BID. Part of the new contract provides for different layers of coverage seven days a week during the summer and winter months. Our Clean Team members are committed to keeping the streets of Downtown free from rubbish. Throughout the course of a year, the Clean Team removes over 120,000 gallons of trash and debris from Downtown streets, parks and sidewalks. This past winter, the team cleared over 70 inches of snow and spread close to 2,500 lbs. of calcium chloride onto icy curb cuts and cross walks. Also serving as ambassadors, the team presents a professional and helpful appearance, and assists the Downtown community and visitors through providing customer service, safety awareness and reporting any maintenance issues.
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DOWNTOWN ALBANY BID
BID executive director Georgette Steffens being interviewed on TV-16 by Jim Steele. The BID has appeared on the show each month to discuss events and news out of our District.
The Downtown Albany BID has been busy – getting the word out on all things Downtown, speaking alongside our partners and leading the way to further investment and development.
Links subscriber Caryn stopped in our office to pick up her prize, a gift certificate to Café Capriccio. Each week in our free e-newsletter we give away an item from one of our many Downtown businesses; you can subscribe online by visiting downtownalbany.org
BID executive director Georgette Steffens speaks to business students at The College of Saint Rose. The students, all freshmen, were asked to come up with a business plan to answer this question: “What business does downtown Albany need?”
BID communications coordinator Rebecca Haizmann promoting Small Business Saturday at the downtown Albany Farmers Market. Over a dozen Downtown businesses signed up to offer deals. Stay tuned for information on this year’s event!
Representing downtown Albany got a little sweeter in 2014. BID assistant director Marquita Rhodes is shown here with graphic designer Mitchell with the Kiernan Plaza Gingerbread House he created for a gingerbread competition.
Anders Tomson, president of Capital Bank, and Georgette Steffens, BID executive director, speak to Capital Bank employees about Downtown prior to their move to Wellington Row.
Pet owners visited First Church in Albany for their annual Pet Blessing.
BID staff and volunteers relax at the end of the day after the exciting and delicious Food Fight: Meatball Edition last September.
At the end of 2014, the BID moved from North Pearl Street to 21 Lodge Street, where we now share a building with the Capitalize Albany Corporation.
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Looking to relocate your business to the heart ofL UitM Ball? Look no further than downtown Albany. I Whatever your specifications are, we have the spaceA that can work for you. From historic buildings with modern amenities to high rise buildings or shared space options, it is here in Downtown. Here is just a sampling of available space. For a more detailed list please visit downtownalbany.org.
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salon, retail banking, restaurant, on-site CO management team, and unparalleled LU M B IA views of the Hudson Valley and the Capital City. Karen Laberge Albany Management 518.458.7113 ST klaberge@albanymanagement.com EU
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80 State Street, 6,200 SF (2nd floor), 1,900 SF (8th floor), 1,600 SF (10th floor) and 10,000 SF (11th floor) available in the heart of Downtown. Lobby, restrooms, and MA IDE elevators have recently been remodeled. N 24/7 access, and 24/7 security. HU Janet Kaplan DSO N R IVE 80 State Street LLC R W AY 518.482.8986 jkaplan@stuyvesantplaza.com
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90 State Street, 1,845 SF (6th Floor Corner office Suite). Space includes reception area, conference room and office space within suite. Highly desirable office location in the heart of Albany’s business district. Building amenities include discounted parking, coffee & sandwich shops, daycare, conference room & day office rentals as well as onsite storage space. Denise Williams Harmony Group Capital LLC 518-744-5364 Cell dwilliams@harmony-group.com LI B
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K WState and exterior signage available Lat 677 Broadway, 2,953 SF (2nd floor), AY Lodge streets. Interior drop ceiling with 8,454 SF (6th floor), 12,438 SF (7th floor) parabolic lighting, 60 AMP electrical and 5,105 SF (12th floor) available in service. Wet sprinkler system, Hard wired this landmark 12 story building, loaded PIN E smoke and fire system, existing HVAC with energy efficient state-of-the-art system.CPublic restrooms in main hotel professional office space with Downtown’s O lobby can Rbe most prestigious business address. N I shared. Contemporary hotel NG location is a 4-minute walk from the NYS 24/7 security and property management Capitol building and the Times Union services, redundant fiber-optic and Center sports and entertainment arena, uninterruptable electric safeguards, HID offering 365 rooms and 30,000 SF of security access, high-speed elevators, meeting space. on-site café & premier restaurant, unique Tracy Metzger heated sidewalks, and private balconies TL Metzger & Associates, LLC are just a few of the amenities this 518.426.5211 x103 property has to offer.LMinutes from the ST AN HO NYS Capitol, future Albany Capital Center, AT C W tracy@tlmetzger.com AS E AR Times Union Center and the D T E Amtrak Rail R 59 N Pearl Street, 37,000 SF property Station. Easy access to I-90 and I-787. located in one of downtown Albany’s most Covered parking available. sought after locales. Former’s Jillian’s Rudy Lynch restaurant, many possible pending zone Carrow Real Estate verification use. Great corner location with 518.337.3705 outside patio. rudy@carrowrealestate.com NO B EA RT ON Tony Sabatino V E R Realty USA 22 Clinton Avenue, 16,000 SF three-story 518.857.6999 building for sale with onsite parking. tonys330@aol.com Directly across from The Palace Theater in the heart of the entertainment district. 30 S Pearl Dtreet, Suites from 1,500 – John MacAffer or Tom MacClarence 17,100 SF of one of the few Class A office CBRE-Albany buildings in downtown Albany withHaU DNYC 518.452.2700 SON high-rise ambiance. Beautiful 2 story john.macaffer@cbre-albany.com lobby, high-end restaurant on-site with M banquet facility and upstairs/downstairs HA 61 Columbia Street, 1,200 SF available AD M IS TO terraces. Amenities include manned immediately. This office can be builtI Lto O D IV I S N ION N security desk, executive parking spaces, suit. Located a few blocks from federal and and the Omni Fitness Center. state court houses in downtown Albany, Felton McLaughlin, CCIM and one block from Kiernan Plaza, the V A N Z AN NAI space features central HVAC, fully wired D T Platform 518.428.1164 access for internet/computer and has FMcLaughlin@naiplatform.com elevator access. James Linnan 41 State Street, The most convenient Linnan & Fallon LLP and easy to find professional office 518.449.5400 MA Wi D I Sof it all, with parking! space in the heart lawinfo@linnan-fallon.com lb u ON r Offering flexible options from individual Executive Offices to 15,500 SF per floor 40 Lodge Street, 2,500 SF corner location. with complimentary space planning Highly visible location in downtown Albany. BL EBuilding to customize your new office. Ideal restaurant or premier office/retail EK ER amenities include: garage, full service space inside the Albany Hilton Hotel with H
121 State Street, 10,000 SF of Class “A” Office Space, convenient location, 200 yards from Capitol, Courts and Government Offices. (Parking garage LTO N by). High speed fiber optic available HA M I close for internet and telephones available. Full kitchen and mail/file room. Large conference room andP executive office. R UYN Paul Chevalier Hinman Straub 518.689.7265 pchevalier@hinmanstraub.com
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Non-Profit Org.U.S. PAID Albany, NY Permit #1046 21 Lodge Street | 1st Floor | Albany, NY 12207 T: 518.465.2143 | F: 518.465.0139 downtownalbany.org
@albanybid facebook.com/albanybid instagram.com/downtownalbany youtube.com/downtownalbanyNY
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MISSION STATEMENT To restore, promote and maintain the character and vitality of downtown Albany, and to improve the quality of life and overall image for all who live in, work in and visit the Capital City.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
save the date
Executive Committee Brad Rosenstein, Chairperson Jack’s Oyster House
Downtown Garden Party
Richard Rosen, Vice Chairperson Columbia Development Companies
Join us as we formally welcome and open the #captureAlb exhibit at the annual Downtown Albany Garden Party on June 12, 2015. To purchase your tickets, or for more information on the exhibit, visit downtownalbany.org
Michael Gulotty, Treasurer Vista Host, Inc. James Hart, Secretary Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Board Members Mark Aronowitz, Omni Development Company, Inc. Louis Bannister, The Enchanted Florist Holly Brown, Palace Theatre Stephen M. Cleary, Hinman Straub P.C. Brendan Cox, Acting Albany Police Chief John Evers, Office of the Albany County Exectuive Daniel Fariello, Capital Bank Jeffrey Gordon, Gordon Companies Karen Laberge, Albany Management
Fork in the Road Hungry? The Fork in the Road food truck event will run in conjunction with 1st Friday Albany during the summer and fall. See graphic at right for dates, and visit our website, downtownalbany. org, for full list of participating food trucks and vendors.
James Linnan, Linnan & Fallon, LLC Hon. Daniel P. McCoy, Albany County Executive Hon. Carolyn McLaughlin, Common Council Felton McLaughlin, NAI Platform Dominick Purnomo, Yono’s Restaurant | dp An American Brasserie Hon. Darius Shahinfar, Albany City Treasurer Hon. Kathy M. Sheehan, Mayor, City of Albany
SPRING/SUMMER 2015 | ISSUE 1
Mark Yonally, B. Lodge & Co. STAFF Georgette Steffens, Executive Director Rebecca Haizmann, Communications Coordinator Marquita Rhodes, Assistant Director Don Wilson, Operations Manager
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