Downtown Albany Digest | Summer/Fall 2017

DOWNTOWN

ALBANY DIGEST

Summer/Fall 2017 • Issue 1

1 Welcome!

2 BID Updates

3 Downtown is Pawsome

7-9 New & Newsworthy

10 Getting Around Downtown

11 O ut & About in Downtown

13 Available Living Spaces

14 Available Business Spaces

A PUBLICATION OF THE DOWNTOWN ALBANY BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT

WELCOME!

Downtown Albany continues to thrive with new residential and commercial offerings. The Capital Center is a prominent addition to the neigh­ borhood. Right around the corner, Spa Wellington also opened its doors this past spring and has been bustling ever since, servicing guests from Renais­ sance Albany and those who live, work, and visit Downtown. Other new businesses that are contributing to a livable, workable downtown Albany include Daniel Mozzes Designs, Fifth Tier Baking Studio, Fort Orange General Store, Ria’s Bistro & Bakery and Bombshell’s Hair and Beauty Studio.

It has been said that a city is judged by how it greets its visitors. This past spring and summer, we welcomed new conventioneers, residents, office tenants, and visitors; all contributing significant economic impact to downtown Albany. As we move into fall, the streets have come alive, thanks to new infrastructure, a growing art scene, unique retail destinations and community events.

The BID purchased and installed 50 brand new, self-watering planters,

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Autumn is the perfect time of year to take advantage of the 12 newly installed historic Signs of Greatness: Albany Stories. Located throughout Downtown, these signs mark several areas of interest showcasing our City’s remarkable cultural heritage. This partnership with the NYS Museum, SUNY’s central admini­stration and the Downtown BID is concentrated along State Street and several blocks of Broadway near Corning Riverfront Park, and focuses mostly on Albany’s colonial past, with an emphasis on the Dutch era from 1609 through 1664.

Make sure to download the new Tour Albany App on your smart phone before you go on your walking tour of Downtown so that you can identify and learn about area historic sites and buildings. Tour Albany is a fantastic next step in promoting Albany’s unique history and fulfills a goal within the Cultural Heritage and Tourism (CHAT) Partnership Plan.

We’ve also introduced the latest Downtown transportation feature: the free CDTA shuttle service on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, which safely allows you to patronize the many downtown bars, restaurants and entertainment venues, as well as CDPHP Cycle!, the regions’s first bike sharing program. While you’re at it, check out the newest addition to the Downtown scene, Downtown is Pawsome. Visit all 20 of the three-foottall Nipper statues through Spring of 2018. Each Nipper, based on Albany’s famous canine resident and local landmark, was custom designed to represent a different piece of our heritage. Stay tuned to more news on development in downtown Albany in the months ahead.

thereby doubling the number of flowers on the sidewalks, 40 new trash receptacles have replaced the existing cans, and striking new banners, which were designed by a graphic design firm located here in our District, have been installed to welcome folks to Downtown.

There will be plenty of room for the dogs to run and play as well as a special dog drinking fountain. Dog-friendly events to commemorate the park’s opening are already in the works, so area residents can look forward to new types of festivities that will allow for increased interaction with their neighbors.

Nipper has extended his leash and taken up residency Downtown through our Downtown is Pawsome public art exhibit. These painted pups, created by regional artists, have been the talk of the town, promoting engagement within the community by appearing across businesses’ and individual’s social media pages. Guided tours of all the Nippers and their respective artists will be offered soon!

Also in the four-legged category, the new, off-leash dog park is officially under construction, further encouraging our canine friends to enjoy all that Downtown has to offer.

Hon. Kathy M. Sheehan Mayor, City of Albany

The BID is raising the level of amenities to match the amount of investment occurring in Downtown and these endeavors are just the beginning. Be sure to connect with the BID on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and through our bi-weekly e-newsletter, which you can sign up for via our website to discover the latest news taking place in Downtown.

Sincerely, Georgette Steffens Executive Director

BID UPDATES

New Board Member Announced Seth Meltzer, Principal, Hudson Partners Development, began his three-year term at the BID’s Annual Meeting on May 3. With decades of experience in sales and marketing and nearly a decade of experience in real estate, he has managed conversion projects in the District at 50 S Pearl Street and 99 Pine Street. Seth is also a frequent lecturer on real estate investing at the Manfred Real Estate Learning Center.

New Faces Jason Bonafide joined the BID in March 2017 in the newly created Special Events Manager position. Taking the helm of signature events like Downtown is Pawsome and Restaurant Week, he brings with him over 10 years of experience at the City of Albany Office of Special Events & Cultural Affairs. In his most recent role as Public Relations Coordinator for the Cultural Affairs office, Jason was responsible for marketing, programming and media relations for major City of Albany events like the Tulip Festival, the Alive at Five concert series and the Albany Riverfront Jazz Festival.

Veronica Medina-Matzner joined the BID in March 2017 as Executive Assistant. She handles day-to-day tasks to help streamline processes in the office and assists other staff with projects. Originally from Brazil, Veronica holds degrees in Film, Cultural Journalism, Documentary Studies and an MA in Media Studies from The New School in NYC. Now a resident of Albany, she brings her experience working across the film industry to the Capital Region, where she is involved with local film organizations.

Jenny Coye joined the BID in August 2017 as Communications Specialist. In addition to implementing a comprehensive communications plan to heighten awareness of Downtown development and investment, Jenny also manages social media for the BID, maintains the organization’s website, oversees the production of printed and electronic promotional materials, and coordinates media outreach efforts. Prior to joining the team, Jenny gained valuable experience fulfilling marketing and public relations roles within both the technology and legal services industries. Jenny received her bachelor’s in communications from the University at Albany with double minors in fine art and film studies.

downtownalbany.org

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DOWNTOWN IS PAWSOME

Second Chances by Bob Anderson

Downtown is Pawsome

Take a walk or ride around Downtown and you’re sure to notice a litter of very colorful pups. In mid-June, the BID launched this year’s placemaking exhibit, consisting of statues of one of Albany’s most famous residents: Nipper. Downtown is Pawsome features 20, three-foot-tall replicas of Nipper the Dog, each decorated by a different artist or group. These painted pups will help creatively reinvent the spaces shared by our neighbors, employees and visitors from June 2017 to May 2018, after which they will be auctioned off with proceeds benefiting the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society and the continued revitalization of Downtown.

The call for artists placed in May resulted in an outpouring of enthusiasm; nearly 90 applications to creatively interpret the sculptures were received from schools, community groups and artists, ranging from talented toddlers to

Tulip Festival by Myers Middle School

Steampunk Nipper by Elaine Wilson

nationally recognized graphic designers. Due to the positive response, the number of sculptures was doubled from 10 to 20. The first litter hit the streets in mid-June and the second wave arrived in early July.

The artists are:

Launching the exhibit was a Garden Party held in June, at which Hon. John “Jack” McEneny received the 2017 Norman S. Rice Arts, Culture and Education Award.

Artists were chosen by the Downtown is Pawsome curatorial committee: Georgette Steffens and Jason Bonafide of Downtown Albany BID, Tony Iadicicco and Anna Wettergreen of Albany Center Gallery, Greg Haymes and Sara Ayers of Nippertown, and graphic designer Lee Dixon.

• Bob Anderson | Albany, NY • Sarah Bassett & Hannah McGrath | Boston, MA • Matthew Bartik | Pattersonville, NY • Mitchell Biernacki | Troy, NY • Melanie Lucia Clarke | Clifton Park, NY • Kit Collins | Medford, MA • Diane Cubit |Troy, NY • Kristen Dahms | Ballston Lake, NY • Sandra Dwileski | Albany, NY • Tim Fealey | Albany, NY • First Church in Albany | Albany, NY • John “Gianni” Gaudet | Albany, NY • Gretchen Geser | Delmar, NY • Betsy Gorman | Valatie, NY • Ali Herrmann | Lenox, MA • Jessica Mansmith | Halfmoon, NY • Myers Middle School | Albany, NY • Scotty Somerville | Albany, NY • Upside Collective | Albany, NY • Elaine Wilson | Schodack Landing, NY Made possible by:

The blank statues that were given out to artists to decorate.

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• Amplify Albany Grant Program • Capitalize Albany • The City of Albany • Albany Center Gallery • 80 State Street • Albany County Convention and Visitors Bureau • Palace Theatre • Upside Collective

CLEAN, SAFE & VIBRANT

Cleaning Up Our four-member Clean Team is out in the District seven days a week to help tidy up our sidewalks and curb cuts, adding substantially to the quality of life in Downtown. How substantially? From November 2016 to April 2017, they removed over 75,000 gallons of trash, cleared over 59 inches of snow, applied over 1,500 pounds of calcium chloride onto curb cuts, and worked over 5,000 hours.

You’ll know you’re seeing our Clean Team in action by the neon green shirts and jackets that say “Downtown Albany” across the back, and they do far more than what’s mentioned above. Scott, Chris, Bill, and Muhammed are also our eyes on the street, reporting issues that fall outside their purview, what they hear from Stakeholders, and answering questions from people out walking around Downtown. The Clean Team also works closely with the City of Albany Department of General Services (DGS) on trash and recycling, lighting issues, greenery and safety concerns.

Neighborhood Cleanup To celebrate Earth Day this year, BID staff headed to the South End for our second annual Neighborhood Cleanup and Party. Part of South End Earth Day 2017 (SEED), we were joined by residents, community members and SUNY Albany students in cleaning up the main thoroughfares and side streets in the South Pearl Street & Madison Avenue area.

In just a few hours, our group of approximately 30 volunteers removed over 2,800 gallons of trash and lawn debris. After the hard work and heavy lifting, everyone headed back to The Coliseum for a neighborhood party, complete with a bounce house, DJ and food.

Stay tuned for details on our next clean-up initiative via our website and social media channels. We hope to see you there!

Flowers Galore

As the welcome mat to the City, our District offers the unique opportunity to engage people before they get out of their cars. With that in mind, the BID enhanced the streetscape this year with the purchase of colorful banners and barricade covers that read “Welcome to Downtown”.

The colorful banners went up this spring and were immediately noticed by those who live, work, and play here. The barricade covers, which were utilized in Tricentennial Park over the winter, will see year-round use, adding vibrancy to events happening throughout Downtown over the next several years.

On Downtown sidewalks and light poles, our flowering program was in full bloom this past season. Over 160 hanging baskets and 100 ground planters added extra color to Downtown, receiving positive feed­ back from scores of passersby.

An integral part of the BID beautification program, the flowers on display this year were chosen with the help of landscape architect, Marty Springer, and locally-contracted grower, M&K Greenhouses. The result is a dazzling display for everyone to enjoy. Looking for more? Head to Jim DiNapoli Park (Pine Street and Broadway) and check out the window boxes that were planted with the help of some wonderful KeyBank volunteers.

Welcome to Downtown

Flower planters

downtownalbany.org

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YEAR IN REVIEW

Year in Review The District continues to evolve into Albany’s newest neighborhood, attracting visitors, residents, and employees.

Below are just some of the highlights from 2016 and what is on the plate for this year. Looking for more? You can view the full 2016 Annual Report at downtownalbany.org.

BID Investments & Events Dog Park: • 15,000 SF park under construction in Wallenberg Park (land between 677 Broadway and Clinton Square).

• $50,000-$60,000 investment.

• Slated to open in November.

• Themed events, such as a Halloween-inspired puppy and dog trick or treating event, are being planned around the dog park to increase awareness and usage.

Panhandling Initiative: • Partnering with Central Avenue and Lark Street BIDs on an initiative to effectively communicate legal and illegal Dog park area panhandling practices, and to assist people in safely donating to services to help the homeless population. Look for further information to be rolled out this fall.

Convention Center District: • Secured a $250,000 National Grid grant for streetscape improvements in the Convention Center District, to include lighting and placemaking additions. Components of the project will begin later this year.

Visual Improvements & Placemaking: • Downtown is Pawsome: 20, three-foot-tall Nipper statues have been customized by artists and placed throughout the District.

• Over 50 bold and colorful banners were added to the streets of Downtown this spring.

• 50 new self-watering planters will be added to our District - these are in addition to the 50 that were placed out last year.

• Tricentennial Park (Broadway & Columbia St.) improvements: purchase of 25 new bistro tables, as well as barricade covers while the park is closed in the winter.

• 40 new garbage cans placed throughout the District, replacing all of the non-solar receptacles.

Events: • Over 8,000 people attended Restaurant Week.

• Over 8,000 people attended last fall’s Pearlpalooza.

• Over 200 people attended the Capital Region’s first mass-yoga event, #YogaPalooza.

• 125 people explored apartments in our District at the Residential Open House last summer, with an additional 50+ people attending this fall.

• New this year: Bites Camera Action. We combined Fork in the Road and Deja View for this six week series that began Monday, July 10, with 125-225 people attending each week. See page 12 for more details.

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BID UPDATES

Retail Shopping & Dining Downtown: • 7 new retail/retail-related businesses opened in 2016.

• 4 new businesses have opened this year with 1 relocation/expansion.

• Another 6 are slated to open this spring.

Residential Living Downtown: • 110 residential units came online in 2016.

• Close to 400 units completed in last five years.

• 500 apartments in development.

Arts & Entertainment Albany Capital Center: • 83 events held since opening March 1 and a total of 130 events scheduled in the first year alone.

• Surpassed first year booking goal with 70% of events net new to Albany.

• Events will generate over 4,200 hotel room nights for 2017.

Albany Center Gallery: • Relocation and expansion has seen an increase in visitation of 300%.

• 325 local and regional artists exhibited to date, compared to a total of 450 for all of 2016.

Capital Repertory Theatre: • 30% increase in ticket revenue in 2016 over 2015.

• 15% increase in subscriptions.

Palace Theatre: • $65 million in restoration and expansion, including backstage area and stage, additional 600-seat theatre, video post-production center, and expanding stage house, lobby and box office.

Times Union Center: • $20 million in atrium renovations.

• Will host first and second round games of Men’s NCAA basketball tournament in 2020.

• Will host Women’s NCAA tournament regional - Sweet 16 and Elite 8 rounds in 2019.

Honoring Anders Tomson The Downtown Albany BID presented the 5th Annual James M. DiNapoli Award to Anders Tomson, President and CEO of Chemung Canal Trust Company, at the BID’s 2017 Annual Meeting. Tomson has been an important figure in downtown Albany for the past 20 years through his time on the Capitalize Albany Corporation Board. His reach goes far beyond a board room though. As President of the Capital Bank division of Chemung Canal Trust Company, he moved their regional headquarters and new bank branch into Downtown in 2015, playing a key role in the redevelopment of Wellington Row. Created in 2013 in honor of a founding member and inaugural Chairman of the Downtown BID, the James M. DiNapoli Award is given annually to an individual, organization, or business that has exemplified Mr. DiNapoli’s spirit of partnership with the BID in shaping the direction of downtown Albany. downtownalbany.org

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NEW & NEWSWORTHY

Open for Business It's here! The new convention center that started with a bang (implosion) opened for business in March. The $78 million, 82,000-square-foot Albany Capital Center has already hosted 83 events, with a total of 130 events on the calendar for 2017 and more than 4,200 hotel room nights booked.

When fully established in the market, the venue is expected to bring 150,000 visitors annually to Albany and the Region with an estimated economic impact of $36 million.

Want to take a look inside? Head to youtube.com/downtownalbanyny for a virtual tour.

The Albany Capital Center is part of the Capital Complex, which is comprised of the convention center, Times Union Center, and Empire State Plaza, totaling nearly 160,000-square-feet of event space.

Albany Capital Center

From Street to Runway When you think of North Pearl Street, you might think of the shopping, dining and entertainment – but for one night this spring, it was home to something very different: Daniel Mozzes Design, who earlier this year relocated his showroom to Steuben Street, held Fashion On Pearl, temporarily converting the street into a runway.

Why hold it out on North Pearl?

“Fashion is art,” says Mozzes, “and shouldn’t be kept behind closed doors.” The inaugural event benefited the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Albany. Planning has already begun for 2018’s Fashion on Pearl.

55 Eagle Street | 518.487.2009

Emmanuel Thai

Truly Authentic

Fashion on Pearl

Rising Stars Each year, the Albany Business Review highlights 40 of the region’s top young talent, and Downtown was well represented in the 2017 class of “40 Under 40,” from those working in hospitality to the arts and finance industries.

You’ll spot these names and businesses/organizations in our District, so next time you’re around be sure to congratulate them! Winners include: Leola Edelin (Renaissance Albany), Tony Iadicicco (Albany Center Gallery), Christina Minkler (CHA Consulting), Brian Murphy (Couch White), and Marie Zimmerman (KPMG).

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Emmanuel Thai Restaurant is a new restaurant bringing authentic Thai cuisine to Downtown, boasting a menu that caters to every palate.

Dishes include classic curries, sushi and sashimi, Thai soups and salads.

Everything is prepared fresh when you order. Bonus: They are open late six days a week, so no matter when your craving hits, they’re here to serve.

Gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options are also available. Stop in or order online for pick up.

35 Maiden Lane | 518.427.0202

NEW & NEWSWORTHY

Lots of Candles for this Cake The year this law firm opened, the second bank of the U.S. had also opened, the construction of the Erie Canal had just started, and James Monroe was president. They are Hodgson Russ LLP, and this year they are celebrating 200 years in business.

The firm is home to more than 200 practicing attorneys in areas ranging from intellectual property and technology to environment and energy, while spanning industries such as gaming and construction to telecommunications and life sciences.

Learn more at hodgsonruss.com.

677 Broadway | 518.465.2333

Welcome to Our District Following the merger of financial institutions KeyBank and First Niagara, it was announced this past spring that 25 commercial and business banking employees would be moved from Patroon Creek to the regional headquarters at 66 S Pearl Street.

Following a shift of oversight from the Thruway Authority to the New York Power Authority, the New York State Canal Corporation’s regional headquarters has relocated its 25 employees to Downtown. The corporation manages 524 miles of waterways that contain locks, lift bridges, dams and reservoirs, including the Erie Canal.

Hellbent mural

One Huge Mural Anyone who visits, lives, or works in Downtown now has permanent access to art by an internationally recognized artist. A mural by Hellbent became the second of its kind to be placed on the Quackenbush Garage. At 65 feet tall and 115 feet wide, it took 35 gallons of paint and 100 cans of spray paint to complete. The mural covers all six stories of the structure, wrapping around the south and west sides.

Hellbent, known for using bright colors and patterns to create vibrant street art, was inspired by Albany’s historical architecture and Dutch roots for the original piece, which can be viewed from both the street and the I-787 onramp from Broadway. The garage is located on Orange Street between Broadway and Water Street.

More information, as well as a video of the mural being painted, are available at downtownalbany.org.

One of a Kind The first “Johnny Rockets 2.0” has opened in Downtown at the Times Union Center. The restaurant, a combination of the retro eatery and a sports bar called Johnny Rockets and Handcrafted Drafthouse & Sports Bar, is open seven days a week starting at 11:00 AM. Owned by Louis Chicatelli Jr., who runs other Johnny Rockets franchises in the area, the Downtown location features menu items like those found in other locations. It’s not your typical Johnny Rockets, though; no 1950s booths, checkerboard floors or servers in all-white attire will be found here. The new design is more modern with a new logo and black uniforms for staff. It also serves an expanded, pub-style menu including soups, sandwiches, and more, plus 16 taps on the draft line and a full liquor license.

51 S Pearl Street | 518.650.7629 downtownalbany.org

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NEW & NEWSWORTHY

General-ly Awesome Store Gets New Owner, Location Exciting news for fans of the Fort Orange General Store — it has reopened under new ownership.

Signs of Greatness

That’s a Good Sign Downtown’s streets are full of fascinating history, and now you can learn about our rich Dutch heritage by taking a stroll around State Street and Broadway.

How? Through Signs of Greatness, a permanent installation aimed at intriguing and informing anyone who lives, works, and plays in our District.

The longest continuously-chartered city in the United States (est. 1686), Albany’s existence as a community reaches even deeper into the past back to when today’s Capital City was the point of contact between the region’s Native peoples and the Dutch adventurers who arrived here in 1609. The 12 interpretive panels tell stories of Albany’s settlement and development, trade and industry, and landmark social innovation.

Learn more about the installation and view a map of panel locations at downtownalbany.org/signsofgreatness.

A Tier Above the Rest Ready for a delicious snack? After years of working for the state, The Fifth Tier Baking Studio’s owner, Lyle Houston, turned his lifelong passion for baking into a business in Downtown. The opening comes after $50,000 of investment into the shop, equipment, and licensing.

Now owned by Schuyler Bull, the new home of the store is comprised of 2,000 square feet of first-floor retail space in the Argus Building, at 412 Broadway. Across from the SUNY Administration building, this location is just a short distance from the site of the original Fort Orange that was built by the Dutch West India Company in 1624.

The store sells many locally and handmade products, including soaps, lotions, candles, jewelry, stationery, kitchen and barware, while offering an even larger selection of home décor, accessories, men’s specialty products, and Albany-area themed objects. A series of regular events and workshops are held at the space as well.

412 Broadway | fortorangegeneralstore.com

The name originates from a project Houston was given while studying at the Culinary Institute of America; while taking a design course, students were tasked with completing a mock business name and logo. For his part, Houston combined the idea of a five-star restaurant with a wedding cake, and The Fifth Tier Baking Studio was born. Stop in for coffee, cupcakes, scones, biscotti and even treats for your dog.

54 Columbia Street | 518.650.7240

Albany history? There’s an App for That Love learning about Albany’s history? Well we have exciting news for you! Historic Albany Foundation and Columbia Development collaborated to create a brand new iOS and Android application named Tour Albany. The mobile app pulls together a plethora of historical info about Albany, such as maps, building histories, walking tours and podcasts. The main objective of the app is to be a source of local historical information for a wider range of people, including both locals and visitors.

Bonus: You walk at your own pace, giving you plenty of opportunities to shop, stop for a meal, or check out the Signs of Greatness panels along the way. You can download Tour Albany on Google Play and the App Store.

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Spartan Copies

Copy That Oh how time flies! Spartan Copies marked 25 years in business earlier this year with a celebration for customers, friends and family. For any of your copy or printing needs, plus the unmatched professional customer service not found in box stores, look no further than James Street.

31 James Street | 518.436.1801

GETTING AROUND DOWNTOWN

Need a Lyft?

If you've been waiting for ridesharing in the Albany area, good news: the service is now available.

The start of ride sharing in upstate NY meant the state joined 39 others in offering services statewide. From @ridesharingny: “Downtown econo­ mies will be brighter than ever.

Hard working New Yorkers will be able to earn extra income and we have even more options to get home safely”. Aside from major transportation hubs such as the Albany International Airport and Albany-Rensselaer Train Station, the top Uber and Lyft destinations have largely been work or nighttime spots in Downtown. City Beer Hall ranked as the number 3 destination about a month into the launch of the program.

Capital City Shuttle

Free Shuttle CDTA has partnered with several Albany organizations, including the Downtown Albany BID, to launch the Capital City Shuttle, a free service that links some of the City's most visited neighborhoods - Downtown, Lark Street, and the Warehouse District. The pilot program, which was extended beyond Labor Day and through the end of September by popular demand, was available 5:00 PM - 12:30 AM Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights with a shuttle arriving every 20 minutes. Coinciding with the announcement of the shuttle was the release of the CityFinder app, which allows users to track the shuttle location and detailed points of interest. Based on the success of the pilot program, Capital City Shuttle partners are looking at various route options and working to identify financial resources to provide the Shuttle service year round. Follow the BID on Facebook , Twitter, and sign up for our e-newsletter for updates on this program.

Uber Ridesharing press conference

Bike Sharing

Watch the press conference announcing the shuttle at downtownalbany.org or youtube.com/downtownalbanyny.

CDTA and CDPHP launched their bike sharing program CDPHP Cycle! to the Capital Region, an initiative that brought 160 bikes to 20 locations, including several Downtown locations: Palace Theatre (Clinton and N. Pearl Street), State Street and Eagle Street (heading southwest), State Street and Lodge Street (heading northwest) and Maiden Lane (Maiden Lane and Broadway). The program surpassed expectations in its first two months alone: organizers were hoping to enroll 2,000 members in CDPHP Cycle! during the first season, but have already hit 2,028 members at only the halfway point. Out of the 7,615 CDPHP Cycle! bike trips in Albany, Schenectady, Troy and Saratoga Springs, Albany had the highest number of rides at 5,274.

Customers are able to use debit cards, credit cards or CDTA Navigator cards to rent a bike, which will be available for a half hour, one hour, or a full day. downtownalbany.org

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OUT & ABOUT IN DOWNTOWN

There are a lot of ways to get to Downtown – especially with the introduction of ride sharing, bike sharing, and CDTA’s free shuttle – and it was great to see a family take advantage of the nice weather and ride their bikes in for lunch.

One of the fun facts in Downtown: At The First Church in Albany (110 N. Pearl Street), you can sit where then-New York governor Theodore Roosevelt sat in 1928.

KeyBank volunteers joined BID staff and Clean Team members at Jim DiNapoli Park on Maiden Lane to plant flowers and beautify the recreation area that’s utilized by Downtown’s residents, employees, and visitors alike.

WRGB interviewed Georgette at the Albany Center Gallery about the Downtown is Pawsome exhibit that features 20 three-foot-tall Nipper statues customized by artists.

Facebook | AlbanyBID

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BID executive director Georgette Steffens traveled to Albany’s sister city in the Netherlands to discuss Business Improvement Districts and how they share information about their history.

When you have a Nipper statue in the building, the natural thing to do is get all of the office dogs together for a group picture.

Twitter | AlbanyBID

Instagram | DowntownAlbany

FUN FOR FREE

Outdoor movies returned to Downtown this summer with the Bites Camera Action series, which ran July 10 – August 28 and featured several food truck vendors, live music and of course, free movies! Combining the BID’s popular Fork in the Road food truck events and Deja View outdoor movie series, Bites Camera Action offered six evenings of eats and entertainment outdoors in downtown Albany’s Tricentennial Park. Approximately 125-225 families, kids, and 4-legged friends attended the event each night.

Participating food trucks included Burger 21, Given to Fry, Fifth Tier Baking Studio, The Hungry Traveler, Kona Ice and Muddaddy Flats, with musical performances by The Graham Tichy Trio, Bryan Brundige & Crick Diefendorf, Victory Soul Orchestra, DJ Trumastr, and The Useless Cans.

With Downtown residential on the rise, the BID continues to identify new and exciting ways to utilize our public spaces to foster a sense of community in Albany’s newest neighborhood. Event series like Bites Camera Action helps by building a new summer tradition for those who live, work and play in Downtown. The Bites Camera Action series is presented by the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District in partnership with the City of Albany, Christ’s Church Albany, The Hollow Bar & Kitchen, the Palace Theatre, ParkAlbany and 102.7 WEQX. Stay tuned for a new survey coming out with choices for next year’s movies!

The Useless Cans perform at Bites Camera Action.

Attendees view La La Land on the big screen at Tricentennial Park.

downtownalbany.org

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AVAILABLE LIVING SPACES

This spring alone, nearly 100 residential units have come online in Downtown, with many more in the works. More than just big news for our Capital City, it’s great for anyone who seeks to live in Albany’s fastest growing neighborhood.

Below you’ll find current availability. For a complete listing of residential projects and news, visit downtownalbany.org.

20 Park Residences | 20 Park Street Available: 13 units | 807-1,353 SF Bedrooms: 1-2 | Bathrooms: 1-2 Price $1,275 - $3,000 Julio Reyes | OPGNY 718.496.9820 | jreyes@opgny.com 23 N Pearl Street Available: 2 units | 950-1,100 SF Bedrooms: 1 | Bathrooms: 1 Price $1,250-$1,450 Amenities: Recently renovated apartment with vaulted ceilings in the heart of the central business district close to everything. Features wood flooring, washer and dryer in unit, stainless steel appliances, and granite countertops.

Costev, Inc. | 518.210.7735 costevinc@gmail.com Beaver Lofts | 83 Beaver Streets Available: 3 units (Aug) | 1,100 SF Bedrooms: 2 | Bathrooms: 2 Price $1,550-$1,625 Amenities: Features quartz countertops, hardwood floors, indoor and outdoor off street parking available, washer/dryer in unit, central AC/heating, stainless-steel appliances, intercom security system, discounted basic cable/internet. Pet friendly on case by case basis.

Eric | Capital Companies NY 518.400.0327 Eric@capitalcompaniesny.com Capital Center Apartments 99 Pine Street Available: 35 units (starting in October 2017) | 600 - 1,100 SF Bedrooms: 1 | Bathrooms: 1 Price: $850 - $1,400 Amenities: Hardwood floors, granite counter tops, roman showers, washer/ dryers, fitness center, rooftop deck & dog park, theatre room, and more! Parking and on-site self storage are also available and the apartments are all on the top 3 floors (great views!), with a 5 story glass elevator running up the atrium.

Michelle LaBarge Maddalone and Associates 518.346.8600 | michelle@maddalone.net

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Penta on Broadway 522-524 Broadway Available: 2 units | 700-1,000 SF Bedrooms: 1-2 | Bathrooms: 1 Price: $1,025-$1,550 Amenities: Conveniently located in Downtown’s business district, beautiful granite countertops, cherry cabinets, roman tile bathroom, central air. The building features an exercise room, washers/dryers, rooftop deck, and tenant storage. Off-street parking available in Quackenbush Garage.

Sam | 518.331.6169 Steuben Place Apartments 40 Steuben Street Available: 1 unit | 1,183 SF Bedrooms: 2 | Bathrooms: 2 Price $1,950 Amenities: Standard internet and cable included, custom California Closets and blinds, full-size washer and dryer, beautiful hardwood floors, luxurious tile floor bathrooms with wall to wall tile showers, secure building entry system, private, off-street parking available, 24hour emergency maintenance service, on-site 24-hour fitness center.

Lisa | 518.650.4500

20 Park: Largest Residential Conversion to Date Developers Ten Plus Ten invested $10 million into a vacant building, transforming the property into 20 Park Residences, which features 73 market-rate units. The project marks their first in Albany, and the largest conversion to date in Downtown.

Leasing on the property began in May with 24 of the studio to 2 bedroom apartments currently rented out. Units range from 587 to 1,378 square feet with monthly rents $875 to $3,000; features include 7-inch-wide Pergo floor planks, energy efficient stainless steel appliances, in-unit washer/ dryer, Shaker-style cabinets, granite countertops in kitchens and bathrooms, and rainfall showerheads. The building also features a roof-top deck and on-site gym. With only 13 units remaining, anyone interested in the apartments can call 714.496.9820 or inquire online at 20parkresidences.com.

AVAILABLE BUSINESS SPACES

Looking to relocate your business to the heart of it all? Look no further than downtown Albany. Whatever your specifications are, we have the space that can work for you. From historical buildings with modern amenities to high-rise or shared-space options, you can find it in Downtown. Here is just a sampling of available space. For a more detailed list, visit downtownalbany.org.

39 Columbia Street Various spaces for lease in this 54,000 SF, five-story building, including one retail space. Some free parking included in rent. Across from Tricentennial Park, you’re just a quick walk away from the Palace Theatre, Times Union Center, and many restaurants.

Laurie Tylenda CBRE Albany | 518.452.2700 x139 laura.tylenda@cbre-albany.com 11 North Pearl Street 7,132 SF retail space with wide open floor plan that can accommodate any desired layout. Formerly the Home Savings Bank location, there are high ceilings and ornate, original finishes throughout the great room, featuring gold leaf embossed and hand-painted ceilings, shining marble walls, flooring and pillars, and a decorative fireplace. www.11northpearl.com Melissa Martino Heights Real Estate | 646.572.6486 mmartino@heightsre.com 84 North Pearl Street 13,119 SF located along one of Downtown’s main corridors. This sixstory building provides two floors of high-visibility retail space. This C3-zoned property is located in the Central Business District and is only steps from heavily trafficked attractions such as Capital Repertory Theatre and Palace Theatre, as well as other businesses such as Albany’s oldest retail establishment, B. Lodge & Company.

Moutopoulos Brothers, Inc. 518.210.7735 moutopoulosbrothersinc@hotmail.com 12 Sheridan Avenue Three-story, 4,572 SF building for sale.

Excellent condition, impeccably restored and maintained. Historic details throughout. Current single office tenant.

Multiple tenancy opportunity on each floor. Separate meters and HVAC on each floor. Kitchen and bathrooms on each floor. Parking located across the street in paid lot.

30 South Pearl Street Class A office suites available from 2,50017,100 (full floor) SF. Contiguous floors can be assembled. Unmatched convenience and centrally located, steps from the Albany Capital Center, State Capitol, Albany City Hall, Times Union Center, prominent financial and legal firms, world-class dining and entertainment venues. Enjoy impressive views of the Albany skyline, easy access to major highways, and abundant parking within one block.

Mark Aronowitz OMNI Development Companies 518.432.4500 maronowitz@omnidevelopment.com 41 State Street On site garage parking and several office suites available from one room to 30,000 SF. First floor retail available.

Located at the corner of State and Broadway within walking distance to the Capitol, courts, and parks. Floor to ceiling windows provide exceptional views of the majestic Hudson River valley and Downtown Albany. Building amenities include: a restaurant, retail bank, fullservice salon, on-site management staff, conference rooms, garage parking, and executive suites. Offering competitive rates and flexible terms.

63 State Street Unique opportunity to purchase a freestanding building on State Street in downtown Albany. Ideal for office or retail use and convenient to Downtown, I-787, I-87, I-90, the train station and bus terminal. Three stories and 5,596 SF, building features open floor plan, brass elevator, and period details. Close to restaurants, retail, hotels, and the Times Union Center.

Leah Witko Coldwell Banker | 518.649.7505 leahwitko@gmail.com 69 State Street Join Bank of America in this landmark building. Total of 60,000 SF available space; multiple suites starting at 2,500 SF. Convenient to Downtown, I-787, I-90, train station and bus terminal. 24/7 security, full maintenance and management. Café on lobby level.

Peter Sciocchetti Coldwell Banker | 518.785.9000 x122 psciocchetti@cbcprime.net

Richard Curri Albany Management | 518.458.7113 rcurri@albanymanagement.com 50 State Street 3,750 SF second floor professional office suite available immediately. Located in the heart of downtown Albany’s central business district. Complete with high end furniture optional. Short walk to courts, NYS office buildings, restaurants, hotels and the brand new Albany Capital Center. Tremendous exposure in this owner-occupied building. Parking available.

Rudy R. Lynch Carrow Real Estate | 518.462.7491 Rudy@CarrowRealEstate.com

Tracy Metzger TL Metzger & Associates 518.426.5211 x103 tracy@tlmetzger.com downtownalbany.org

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21 Lodge Street | 1st Floor | Albany, NY 12207 T: 518.465.2143 | F: 518.465.0139 downtownalbany.org Twitter | AlbanyBID

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MISSION STATEMENT To restore, promote and maintain the character and viability of downtown Albany and improve the quality of life and overall image for those who live in, work in and visit the Capital City.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Executive Committee Richard Rosen, Chairperson Columbia Development Companies James Hart, Vice Chairperson Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Dan Fariello, Treasurer Capital Bank Jeffrey Gordon, Secretary Gordon Companies Board Members Mark Aronowitz, Omni Development Company, Inc. Louis Bannister, The Enchanted Florist Meghan Barkley, Aeon Nexus Holly Brown, Palace Theatre Stephen M. Cleary, Hinman Straub, P.C. Hon. Daniel P. McCoy, Albany County Executive

BID Board members from left. Back row: Dominick Purnomo, Seth Meltzer, Hon. Darius Shahinfar, Steven Cleary, Holly Brown, Vice Chair James Hart, Louis Bannister. From row: Chairperson Richard Rosen, Tracy Metzger, Secretary Jeffrey Gordon, Treasurer Dan Fariello, Hon. Carolyn McLaughlin and Mark Aronowitz.

Hon. Carolyn McLaughlin, Common Council President Seth Meltzer, Hudson Partners Development Tracy Metzger, TL Metzger & Associates Pamela Nichols, O’Connell & Aronowitz George Penn, Office of the Albany County Executive Dominick Purnomo, Yono’s/dp’s David Sarraf, Fairbank Properties Robert Sears, Albany Police Chief Hon. Darius Shahinfar, Treasurer, City of Albany Hon. Kathy M. Sheehan, Mayor, City of Albany Mark Yonally, B. Lodge & Company

STAFF Georgette Steffens, Executive Director Jason Bonafide, Special Events Manager Jenny Coye, Communications Specialist Veronica Medina-Matzner, Executive Assistant Don Wilson, Operations Manager

SUMMER/FALL 2017 | ISSUE 1

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