Celebrating Phase 3 of the continuing, expanding revitalization of Albany’s South End, 56 affordable housing units in eight buildings, to help meet high demand, and a 1,000 square foot commercial laundromat, as a necessary neighborhood amenity. All new construction, All Energy Star homes, 25 one-bedroom units, 25 two-bedroom units, Six three-bedroom units, $9.6 million construction cost of Phase 3.
South End Phase 3 Progress!!
The Albany Housing Authority in partnership with Omni Housing Development LLC is now constructing Phase 3 of a multi-phase affordable housing initiative throughout Albany’s South End in accordance to the City of Albany’s Capital South Plan, SEGway to the Future. The scattered-site development consists of 56 residential units in 6 new and 3 rehabilitated buildings and includes a commercial Laundromat that is available for public use. Phase 3 follows Phases 1 and 2, consisting of 52 and 43 units, respectively, and continues the replacement of residential units in the obsolete towers at Lincoln Square Homes. Units will be completed and become available for rental between September and December of 2013.
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Groundbreaking at South End Phase III
Celebrating Phase 3 of the continuing, expanding revitalization of Albany’s South End, 56 affordable housing units in eight buildings, to help meet high demand, and a 1,000 square foot commercial laundromat, as a necessary neighborhood amenity. All new construction, All Energy Star homes, 25 one-bedroom units, 25 two-bedroom units, Six three-bedroom units, $9.6 million construction cost of Phase 3.
COMMENTS BY KEY PARTICIPANTS:
City of Albany Mayor Gerald D. Jennings:
“I applaud Omni Housing Development, the Albany Housing Authority, and the many stakeholders, who have, once again, demonstrated that when organizations work collaboratively and cooperatively, positive results occur. As a result, 56 new units of energy-star affordable housing will be made available to our residents; yet another visible testament to our vision of transforming the South End neighborhood.”
Commissioner/CEO of New York State Homes and Community Renewal Darryl C. Towns:
“The revitalization of Albany’s South End is a prime example of the type of community renewal and economic development to which Governor Cuomo is committed. The comprehensive plan includes housing, recreation, and educational components and will go a long way toward improving quality of life in Albany. HCR is proud to have worked with our partners at Omni Housing Development and Albany Housing Authority to rehabilitate the distressed properties that are part of phase III of the revitalization, and transform them into attractive, safe, affordable homes that will benefit residents and the entire city.”
Omni Housing Development LLC COO Duncan Barrett:
“What we do is all about people and places. Albany’s Historic South End is a special place. Omni Housing Development is proud to continue our partnership with the citizens and leaders of the South End and the City of Albany in this ongoing effort at renewal. Today’s ceremony marks one more step in our continuing journey towards that renewal.”
Albany Housing Authority Executive Director Steven T. Longo:
“Today marks an important milestone toward the implementation of the South End stakeholder plan to create new, modern, affordable and less-dense housing that will ultimately replace the obsolete 1960’s-era public housing high rises at Lincoln Square. These new apartments will increase the quality of life for our residents, as well as lay the foundation for private investment in this historic South End neighborhood.”
M&T Bank Regional President Mike Keegan:
“Reinvesting in our communities has always been a priority for us at M&T Bank because community redevelopment projects enhance both the local economy and the quality of life. The continued work of Omni Housing Development and the Albany Housing Authority to redevelop the South End has already resulted in several completed affordable housing projects and we look forward to another successful step toward transforming this neighborhood through South End Phase III.”
Omni Housing Development LLC and the Albany Housing Authority, acting as co-developers — with extensive experience in energy efficient, affordable housing — are leading the Phase 3 project team for revitalization of the South End Albany neighborhood, plus meeting all guidelines of the City of Albany Historic Resource Commission, and NYS Homes and Community Renewal Green Building Initiative. 3T Architects are part of the Phase 3 team.
Financing provided:
• $6,351,138 construction loan from M&T Bank.
• $6,149,273 from NYS Housing and Community Renewal Housing Trust Fund.
• $723,386 (over ten years dispensed annually) from the Low Income Housing and Tax Credit Program.
• $322,334 from Historic Tax Credits.
• $205,000 from the Albany Housing Authority.
• PNC Real Estate invested in tax credit equity.
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AHA Board of Commissioners Meeting Agenda – June 10, 2013
AGENDA
ALBANY HOUSING AUTHORITY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
MONDAY, JUNE 10, 2013 at 2:00 P.M.
200 South Pearl Street
Roll Call.
Community Forum
Reading and approval of the minutes of the previous meeting held May 13, 2013
Action Calendar
06-13-25 Approval for AHA to contribute an additional amount up to $450,000 from the Capital Fund Program Budget to be applied to the abatement and demolition of building #5 at Ida Yarbrough Homes. The abatement and demolition will be overseen by Norstar Development under its existing MOU and will be done as a change order to the existing contract with Dan’s Hauling.
06-13-26 Approval to write off obsolete inventory items at the following AHA Warehouse locations totaling $15,102.39 and consist primarily of items we no longer use at the individual sites.
- Robert Whalen Homes $736.86
- Ida Yarbrough Homes $9,975.14
- North Albany $334.05
- Ezra Prentice $3,842.93
- Westview $213.41
All inventory items will be segregated into lots and sold at an auction. All items not purchased will be scrapped.
Additional Non Inventory Equipment to be taken out of service:
- Disposal of 12 Year old Steiner Club Car and associated attachments at Robert Whalen Homes. Equipment is in non-working order and will be sold for scrap.
- 12 year old North Albany Van, #86. This will be sold at public Auction.
- Disposal of 2 non-working Steiner blower attachments at Capital Woods
06-13-27 Approval of conditional eligibility for continuing health insurance coverage for Joseph M. Brennan and authorization for the Executive Director to enter into an Employment Agreement incorporating the terms of the existing Employment Agreement between the parties with modifications as necessary.
06-13-28 Review and approval of the 07/01/13 – 06/30/14 Federal Program budget.
06-13-29 Approval to contract with Albany Police Athletic League to operate a 4 week summer camp for youth who reside at various AHA developments in the North areas of Albany as well as youth from properties in the South End AHA’s contribution will be $25,000. A minimum of 50% of campers will be residents of PH housing sites. 8 AHA residents will receive a scholarship for a one week overnight camp experience in the Berkshires as well as 6 youth from the community adjacent to AHA properties. North camp location will be Hackett Park and 35 North First St. and the South End location will be Krank Park.
- Camper Fees as follows:
- Full Cost – $195.00 per week (no assistance)
- Tier 2 – $130.00 per week (DSS)
- Tier 3 – $105.00 per week (working families)
- Tier 4 – $ 80.00 per week (single earner families)
- Tier 5 – $40.00 per week (public housing/section 8/free & reduced school meals)
06-13-30 Approval to write-off tenant balances for the year end close for various AHA developments to maximize our financial indicators for PHAS.
Capital Woods: $2,019.20
Robert Whalen: $2,503.96
Westview: $5,507.87
Ezra Prentice: $4,334.28
North Albany: $1,173.31
Nutgrove: $1,912.47
Steamboat Square: $8,251.18
Lincoln Square: $5,107.58
Ida Yarbrough Lo rise: $4,922.20
Creighton Storey: $1,274.98
Ida Yarbrough Hi- rise: $4,072.36
Townsend: $2,120.51
Total $43,199.90
Total DSS (of the 43K) $10,010.56
Total Fraud (of the 43K) $10,870.86
06-13-31 Authorization to enter into 3 year, Firm Fixed Price contract, with incumbent vendor County Waste Service, Inc. of Clifton Park, NY in the amount of $1,129,513.24 for Refuse and Single Stream Recycling Services as a result of Invitation for Bid #0025-C-13-002 achieving a cost savings of 17% .
- 2nd Low Bidder: Waste Management, Inc. Houston, TX $1,379,779.04
- Ipek Container Services (ICS), Delmar, NY No Bid
- Allied Waste Services , Albany NY No Bid
Please note: The City of Albany has 2 companies with the required variety of equipment and capacity to handle this amount of work. Publically advertised Bid notice and online outreach to 247 potential vendors only brought back 2 responses. Pricing received was within an acceptable range, agreed with current cost estimates and represents the competitive marketplace. Previous 2010 Trash and Recycling Procurement yielded 2 responses as well.
Reports of Committees
Unfinished Business
New Business:
Bills and Communications
Report of the Executive Secretary
- A. Monthly Management Report
- B. Monthly Financial Report (Deputy Director)
- C. Items for Advisement and Discussion
- Bank Balance as of 6/5/13
Adjournment –
NEXT MEETING:
Monday, July 8, 2013 @ 2:00 p.m.
200 South Pearl Street, Albany, New York 12202
ReThink Housing | Why Housing Matters
Having a place to live is a basic need for everyone. Yet, for some people, it remains out of reach. Public housing serves approximately 2.2 million people across the U.S., but the need is much greater; more than half a million people are on waiting lists.
According to the ReThink Survey: Perceptions of Public Housing 2013, the overwhelming majority of Americans believe U.S. citizens deserve a safe and decent place to live. Yet most Americans surveyed do not support public housing in their own neighborhoods and would not want to live near a public housing unit.
Watch, read, and share the inspirational stories from public housing and rethink its impact on individuals, families, and your own community.
Visit the ReThink Housing Website!!
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Re-Imagining Albany High School A Town Hall Meeting
A Town Hall Meeting
As the City School District of Albany partners with the community
to plan for the future of Albany High School
all community members are invited to participate
in this discussion of the academic, social-emotional and
extracurricular programs that will best serve
all students in the decades to come.
Monday, June 10
6:30-8:30 p.m.
William S. Hackett Middle School
45 Delaware Avenue
District representatives will lead a conversation and answer questions
about programs and services that would be offered
in a new or renovated Albany High School.
The forum will be held in the Hackett cafeteria. Parking will be available in the rear lot, accessible from Leonard Place off of Delaware Avenue.
Please call the Communications Office with questions at 475-6065.
We hope you will be able to participate!
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Father’s Day Community Breakfast
Treat your Father or Father Figure to Breakfast
Father’s Day Event:
- Father’s Day Awards
- Music, Food and Drinks
- Prizes and Giveaways
- Father of the Year!
- Free Community Breakfast
Contact Urban Arts for more information and Nominate your Father for the “Father of the Year” award by submitting an essay telling us how great he is and e-mail to info@toodeepentertainment.com or please call (518) 380-6701.
SATURDAY, JUNE 15th, 2013
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Arbor Hill Recreational Baseball 2013
Boys and Girls Ages 7-12
Instructional and Fundamentals Clinic
10:00 AM Every Saturday
Arbor Hill Baseball Field
Lark St. and Manning Blvd.
For more information contact:
The Department of Recreation 434-5699
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Albany Housing Authority gets rated High Performer!!
The Public Housing Assessment System (PHAS) score attained by the Albany Housing Authority for the year ending December 31, 2012, ranks it among the best public housing authorities in the country.
The PHAS score is a compilation of a housing authority’s overall performance in the areas of physical plant, financial, management and resident satisfaction. HUD uses the PHAS evaluation to assess its portfolio in order to ascertain whether a public housing authority is providing its residents with safe, decent, affordable housing.
Update from Capital South Campus Center!
Report One, May 14, 2013 • Capital South Campus Center • 20 Warren St. Albany, NY
City Streets: Good • Site Conditions: Dry • Purpose: Scheduled inspections • Photographs: Below • Inspector: Robert Becker
4/29/13
- After site clearing and preliminary staging areas were prepared building line E was excavated.
- Clay mixed with ashes and miscellaneous debris was encountered
5/06/13
- Excavations continued to complete building foot print pile cap sub grade.
- Materials encountered were consistent with pre construction soils investigations.
5/07/13
- View from 3 Lincoln Square indicating geotextile fabric and crushed stone base material.
5/8/13
- Completed excavation and stone base ready for driven pile operations
Short term schedule:
- Commence pile driving (test piles) 5/15 to 5/17
- Dynamic testing 5/18
- Pile driving 5/20 through 6/7
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- Preconstruction
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- Groundbreaking
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- Rear Building – First Cut
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- Completed Building Excavation
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- Pile Cap Excavation
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- View from 3 Lincoln Square
Young Scholar and Albany High School Featured in the TImes Union!!
Albany – June Criscione faced a choice in middle school that would shape the course of her life:
She chose where she wanted to attend high school. Though her parents said she could choose among a host of Capital Region private schools, she felt only one place would push her in the right way: Albany High School.
“I looked for the school that would challenge me the most,” she said. “I felt Albany High would have everything I needed.”
She made the right choice.
Criscione, 18, is graduating next month. In the fall, she’ll head to Harvard University. Earlier this month, she was named one of 141 U.S. Presidential Scholars, one of the nation’s highest academic honors for high school students. Criscione had a perfect score on her ACT exam and an almost perfect score on her SAT. She plays violin and runs cross country. She made the choice in fifth grade to be a good student.
“Presidential Scholars demonstrate the accomplishments that can be made when students challenge themselves, set the highest standards, and commit themselves to excellence,” U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan said in a statement.
Criscione’s success is also a reminder that Albany High consistently produces a crop of students who head off to the nation’s top colleges. Though it is a frequent target of critics, she said Albany High has plenty of success stories like hers.
“There’s nothing here that can hold you back from achieving,” she said.
Criscione is one of at least three Albany high seniors heading to Ivy League schools in the fall. Hillel Adler will join her at Harvard and Asha Pollydore will attend Dartmouth College.
Criscione said Albany High had a unique mix of high-level classes, especially advanced placement and International Baccalaureate that she said other local high schools did not offer. She credited the school’s extensive extracurricular activities and its music programs and diversity as well as a lot of help from her parents — a lawyer and a former teacher — as the reason she got into Harvard.
“She has yet to find her limits,” said math teacher Margot Plumadore, her mentor. “It’s so exciting to see what is going to happen next, when the bird flies the nest. It’s nice to be in her aura.”
Though she could coast through the rest of the year, as high schools seniors throughout the land are doing this month, Criscione was anxious to head home for studying. She has a new crop of AP exams to take, even though Harvard won’t accept them as credit.
“It’s the principle of the thing,” she said. “I put effort into the classes, I want to see how well I mastered the material.”
Read more: http://www.timesunion.com/local/article/Young-scholar-high-honor-4512654.php#ixzz2THmkUN6e
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AHA Board of Commissioners May Agenda
AGENDA
ALBANY HOUSING AUTHORITY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
MONDAY, MAY 13, 2013 at 2:00 P.M.
200 South Pearl Street
1. Roll Call.
2. Community Forum
3. Reading and approval of the minutes of the previous meeting held April 8, 2013
4. Action Calendar
05-13-18 Approval to send 11 staff members to Philadelphia, PA. from June 9th – June 12th to attend a Tenmast National User Conference. Amount totaling $13, 461.58 for the Hotel stay and Conference. Attendance is necessary as we will have a first major Tenmast upgrade which effects Section 8, Applications, and Public Housing and Tax Credit staff. Upgrade is scheduled for September 2013. The conference has 2 days of hands on training and is the closest location to AHA.
- Cost of Training: $695.00 PP
- All will drive to location
- All will stay at the same hotel
05-13-19 Approval to award Contract #03-2013-5 for Repair of Flood Damage at 200 South Pearl Street to the low bidder MasterSeal of Albany, Inc. for $67, 500.00 pending approval of Housing Authority Insurance. (Ratified)
2nd Bid: $113,390.00, Wainschaf Associates, Inc.
3rd Bid: $210,112.56 Quick Response Commercial, LLC. 05-13-20
Approval to award Contract #03-2013-4.1 for Carpet and Linoleum Tile Replacement in Flood Damaged Areas 200 South Pearl Street to Mohawk Valley Carpets, LLC for $41,100.00 pending approval of Housing Authority Insurance. (Ratified)
2nd Bid: $47,800.00, Flooring Environment, Inc.,
3rd Bid: $48,600.00, Landmark Flooring. 05-13-21
Approval to award Contract #03-2013-4.2 for Carpet Replacement in Non-Damaged South Wing, 200 South Pearl Street to Mohawk Valley Carpets, LLC for 41,100.00. (Ratified)
2nd Bid: $47,800.00, Flooring Environment, Inc.,
3rd Bid: $53,600.00, Landmark Flooring. 05-13-22
Approval to enter contract with Natural Gas and Electricity provider for transportation and consumption services for Natural Gas and Electricity to AHA properties. (Vendor to be determined based on pricing refresh and current market conditions) This RFP process is coordinated by Ameresco Inc. as AHA’s energy performance contractor and coordinator for natural gas and electricity procurement. Pricing is valid in for 24 hour periods and will be executed to the provider offering the best value for AHA. (Ratified) 05-13-23 Approval to enter into a three (3) year contract with highest scoring firm, Gallivan Corporation for AHA’s Lawn Maintenance. This contract will cover existing AMP’s requirements in the annual amount of $142,966.46 for the contract term May 14, 2013 thru May 13, 2016 with 2 additional – 1 year options to extend contract. Ancillary services incorporated into this contract on an as needed basis include:
- One (1) cu. yd. of “Dark”/”Midnight” mulch: Cost: $43.10
- Tree removal services: Cost: $280
- Aeration per Acre Cost: $324
- Hydro seeding per acre; Cost: $1,973
- Shaping of existing shrubbery at all sites: Cost: $4,547
- Spring & Fall Clean Outs at all sites: Cost: $14,067
Results of the RFP, evaluation scores, the 1 and 3 year proposal amounts are as follows:
| Vendor | Score Out of a Possible 100 Pts. | 1 year proposal Amount | 3 year Proposal Amount | |
| 1st | Gallivan, Corporation |
93.2 |
$142,966.46 | $428,899.38 |
| 2nd | Lawn Pro |
90.8 |
$157,430.00 | $472,290.00 |
| 3rd | T&P Lawn and Landscape |
69.9 |
$199,160.00 | $597,480.00 |
| 4th | Hitchcock Building and Grounds |
67.3 |
$121,290.00 | $363,870.00 |
| 5th | Superior Landscaping |
62.4 |
$216,229.00 | $648.687.00 |
| 6th | Premier |
51.6 |
$162,760.00 | $488,280.00 |
| 7th | A Cut Above Landscaping |
67.3 |
$165,750.00 | $497,250.00 |
05-13-24 Whereas HUD has encouraged the adoption of smoke free policies in multifamily housing rental assistance programs and the Center for Disease Control has found that prohibiting smoking in all U.S. subsidized housing would lead to cost savings of about $521 million a year, ($341 million in Health Care costs, $108 million in renovation costs, and $72 million in smoking related fire costs) the 56 units under construction titled South End Phase III and the 22 units under construction at Academy Lofts on Swan Street shall be totally smoke free and Management shall establish smoke-free housing policies for those units that comply with all applicable fair housing and civil rights requirements.
- Reports of Committees
- Unfinished Business
- New Business:
8. Bills and Communications 9. Report of the Executive Secretary
- A. Monthly Management Report
- B. Monthly Financial Report (Deputy Director)
- C. Items for Advisement and Discussion
- Bank Balance as of 5/9/13
10. Adjournment –
NEXT MEETING:
Monday, June 10, 2013 @ 2:00 p.m.
200 South Pearl Street, Albany, New York 12202
Hudson River: Health Advice on Eating Fish You Catch
Fishing is fun and fish are an important part of a healthy diet. Fish contain high quality protein, essential nutrients, healthy fish oils and are low in saturated fat. However, some fish contain chemicals at levels that may be harmful to your health. The primary chemicals of concern in Hudson River fish are called polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and they can build up in your body over time. Health problems that may result from eating fish with PCBs range from small changes in health that are hard to detect to effects on birthweight and cancer. (Visit www.health.ny.gov/fish for more info.) Eating Hudson River fish can be a concern because fish can have many thousands times more PCBs than the surrounding water. New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) offers advice about eating fish you catch. The health advice about which fish to eat depends upon:
Who You Are
Women of childbearing age (under 50) and children under 15 should not eat fish or crabs from the Hudson River from the Corinth Dam to the New York City Battery. Women who eat highly contaminated fish and become pregnant may have an increased risk of having children who are slower to develop and learn. Chemicals may have a greater effect on the development of young children or unborn babies. Also, some chemicals may be passed on in mother’s milk. Women beyond their childbearing years and men may face fewer health risks from PCBs. For hat reason, the advice for women over age 50 and men over age 15 allows them to eat more kinds of sport fish and more often, particularly in the lower Hudson.
Where You Fish
The advice on eating Hudson fish depends upon where on the river you fish. The Hudson River around Hudson Falls has been more affected by industrial chemicals. In general, fish from the lower Hudson are less contaminated. For example, from the Troy Dam to the Bridge at Catskill, no one is advised to eat striped bass. However, south of Catskill, men and older women can eat up to one striped bass meal a month. The Hudson River advice also applies to its tributaries and connected waters if there are no dams, falls or barriers to stop the fish from moving upstream. This is because chemicals remain in fish when they move from one waterbody to another.
What You Catch
Some species (kinds of fish) have higher levels of chemicals than others. In general, smaller fish are less contaminated than larger, older fish of the same species. PCBs are also found at higher levels in the fat of fish. Reduce PCBs by trimming, skinning and cooking your catch as shown in the diagram on the back of brochure. Certain species with a lot of fat, like catfish and eels, should be avoided because they have high levels of PCBs.
Visit www.health.ny.gov/fish for the latest fish advisory information
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AHA wins Excellence in Historic Preservation Award
Read the Full Article here courtesy of readMedia and the Preservation League
ALBANY, NY (05/01/2013)(readMedia)– The Preservation League of New York State has selected the Albany Housing Authority to receive an award for Excellence in Historic Preservation as an outstanding organization.
The League’s statewide awards program honors notable achievements in retaining, promoting and reusing New York State’s irreplaceable architectural heritage.
“Albany, like many upstate cities, has struggled with the issue of vacant and abandoned buildings. While other municipal organizations have made the decision to raze and rebuild, the Albany Housing Authority has committed to retaining and restoring the historic buildings that give the city’s neighborhoods their distinctive, historic ambience,” said Jay DiLorenzo, president of the Preservation League. “The rehabilitation of houses in Albany’s South End and Arbor Hill neighborhoods is a sustainable choice that bolsters the desirability of urban living for clients of the Housing Authority and neighbors alike. Finally, by providing space for the administrative offices of the Albany County Historical Association in the renovated King’s Place property, the Housing Authority has forged a strong partnership with one of the beacons of Arbor Hill’s cultural, historic and artistic renaissance.”
Contributing to the success of the Albany Housing Authority are City of Albany Mayor Jennings; Capitalize Albany Corporation; Albany County Historical Association; Harris A. Sanders Architects, P.C.; Norstar Development USA; Omni Housing Development, LLC; CK Dennis Architect; AOW Associates, Inc.; County of Albany; Wainshaf Associates, Inc., CSArch Architects; Cannon Heyman & Weiss, LLP; and Taconic Title Agency, all of Albany. Funding support was provided by NYS Homes and Community Renewal; US Dept. of Housing and Urban Development, Key Community Development Corporation; PNC Bank National Association; Federal Home Loan Bank of New York and Community Preservation Corporation.
Mayor Gerald Jennings called the King’s Place project “another significant milestone in achieving the goals we set forth in the Arbor Hill Neighborhood Plan of 2003,” while Michael Yevoli, Commissioner of Development and Planning and the President of the Capitalize Albany Corporation, described the Albany Housing Authority as an “exceptional partner in our revitalization of the Arbor Hill neighborhood.”
Darren Scott, the Director of Planning and Development at Albany Housing Authority, said, “Thank you to the Preservation League of New York State for recognizing the role that the affordable housing community can play in the preservation and revitalization of what are often both our most treasured and at-risk neighborhoods. The Albany Housing Authority accepts this award with honor on behalf of our entire team of funders, project participants, and neighborhood stakeholders, whose support and hard work allow the Authority to be an able partner for those who wish to transform their future, and that of their community, into one of choice.”
The awards will be presented at the Preservation League’s Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony in New York City at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15th at the historic New York Yacht Club, 37 West 44th Street.
The complete list of award winners is: the New York State Capitol, Restoration of Skylights and Laylights, Albany County; East 180th Street Station, Bronx; Keramos Hall, Brooklyn; Hotel @ The Lafayette, Buffalo; The TAUNY Center, Canton; The Central Trust Building, Rochester. Albany Housing Authority will be honored for organizational excellence. The Buffalo News: Dawn Bracely, Editorial Writer and Stanford Lipsey, Publisher Emeritus, will be honored as an outstanding publication.
“As we launch our 40th Anniversary celebration in 2013, the Preservation League is looking forward to exploring not just the past, but the future of historic preservation. Many of the 2013 award winners provide valuable examples for other practitioners by incorporating energy efficiency techniques, adaptive reuse strategies and Federal and State Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits,” said DiLorenzo. “Each year, we are impressed by the number and variety of laudable nominations, and this year was no exception. We are delighted to celebrate the work of the Albany Housing Authority.”
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The Preservation League’s Excellence in Historic Preservation awards program is funded by a generous grant from the Arthur F. and Alice E. Adams Foundation.
The Preservation League of New York State invests in people and projects that champion the essential role of preservation in community revitalization, sustainable economic growth, and the protection of our historic buildings and landscapes. We lead advocacy, economic development, and education programs all across the state.
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1st Annual Black History Month Cultural Film Festival a Success!!
Albany Housing Authority is proud to announce that our 1st Annual Black History Month Cultural Film Festival has been a huge success!! We look forward to next year’s Film Festival, as we look back on the gatherings, discussions and family style meals of the last 10 Weeks!! Thank you to all of our friends and neighbors that helped us make it such a great time.
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CNSE, Trinity Alliance, and Albany Housing Authority spruce up the community for Earth Day
Volunteers from CNSE, Trinity Alliance, and Albany Housing Authority spruce up the community for Earth Day
More than 50 volunteers improve a gateway to Albany’s South End as part of a joint effort
Albany, NY — Supporting Governor Andrew Cuomo’s vision and blueprint for livable communities, and furthering its commitment to improving the environment and serving the community, SUNY’s College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering (CNSE) partnered with Trinity Alliance of the Capital Region (Trinity) and the Albany Housing Authority (AHA) to revitalize a gateway to Albany’s South End as part of an Earth Day beautification project on Monday, April 22.
CNSE, Trinity Alliance,
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With a strong turnout involving more than 50 volunteers consisting of NanoCollege faculty, staff, and students, children from Trinity, and members of AHA, the group refreshed a larger area than had originally been planned.
With help from an AHA landscaper, the volunteers planted shrubs and flowers before mulching in order to enhance the area surrounding the corner of Morton Avenue and Clinton Street. Additionally, a number of vacant sites within walking distance were cleaned of debris.
About CNSE. The UAlbany CNSE is the first college in the world dedicated to education, research, development and deployment in the emerging disciplines of nanoscience, nanoengineering, nanobioscience and nanoeconomics. With more than $14 billion in high-tech investments, CNSE represents the world’s most advanced university-driven research enterprise, offering students a one-of-a-kind academic experience and providing over 300 corporate partners with access to an unmatched ecosystem for leading-edge R&D and commercialization of nanoelectronics and nanotechnology innovations. CNSE’s footprint spans upstate New York, including its Albany NanoTech Complex, an 800,000-square-foot megaplex with the only fully-integrated, 300mm wafer, computer chip pilot prototyping and demonstration line within 85,000 square feet of Class 1 capable cleanrooms. More than 3,100 scientists, researchers, engineers, students and faculty work here, from companies including IBM, Intel, GlobalFoundries, SEMATECH, Samsung, TSMC, Toshiba, Applied Materials, Tokyo Electron, ASML and Lam Research. An expansion now underway, part of which will house the world’s first Global 450mm Consortium, will add nearly 500,000 square feet of next-generation infrastructure, an additional 50,000 square feet of Class 1 capable cleanrooms, and more than 1,000 scientists, researchers and engineers from CNSE and global corporations. In addition, CNSE’s Solar Energy Development Center in Halfmoon provides a prototyping and demonstration line for next-generation CIGS thin-film solar cells, supporting its leadership of the U.S. Photovoltaic Manufacturing Consortium (PVMC). CNSE’s Smart System Technology and Commercialization Center of Excellence (STC) in Rochester offers state-of-the-art capabilities for MEMS fabrication and packaging. CNSE alsoco-founded and manages operations at the Computer Chip Commercialization Center at SUNYIT in Utica and is a co-founder of the Nanotechnology Innovation andCommercialization Excelerator in Syracuse. For information, visit www.cnse.albany.edu.
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Capital District Summit on Black Men and Boys
Day 1
Thursday, April 25th
Unveiling the Truth, Dispelling the Myths
4:30 – 6:00 pm – Reception
6:00 – 8:00 pm – Program
Schenectady County Community College
78 Washington Avenue, Schenectady, NY 12305
There are many distortions and misrepresentations of the facts concerning Black males in America today. On Thursday afternoon, we will offer a presentation of the movie “Hoodwinked”, followed by a discussion lead by the author and creator, Janks Morton.
Day 2
Friday, April 26th
Perspectives on Policy
This session by invitation only
University at Albany
Uptown Campus
1400 Washington Ave Albany, NY 12222
Dr. Sydney Hankerson, from Columbia University will present a keynote address on Black Males and Mental Health. This will be followed by a presentation on the work done recently by Fathers Inc., and the Urban Institute to revisit the 1965 Moynihan Report that provides an update on current perspectives on the Black family. We will then host a dialogue about promising strategies with local strategy and policy makers, from the public and private sectors, education, faith community and political arenas.
A Celebration of Local Advocates of Black Male Empowerment
5:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Macedonia Baptist Church
26 Wilson Ave., Colonie, NY 12205
On Friday evening, the Capital Region will lift up the work of supporting and encouraging black males, with a spirit filled program of music and word, and recognition of our local advocates who with their time and talents, encourage black males to seek excellence.
Day 3
Saturday, April 27th
What Must be Done? Promising Approaches to Support Black Males
8:30 am – 4:00 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12206
Key note speaker and workshops will address the health and well-being of Black Males and strategies to support and encourage empowerment of Black males, families, neighborhoods and re-build communities. Leonard Dunston, former president of the National Association of Black Social Workers, Inc. will provide the key note presentation.
Workshops will focus on Faith, Education, Health, the Black Family, and Youth.
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South End Reunion
If you lived, worked, hung out or went to school in the South End – join us for the reunion.
July 13 from noon til dusk
Bring your own food and beverage. Pack up a lawn chair. We’ll enjoy Old Skool music, fish on the river, board games, cards, and sharing photos (bring yours) and memories of the good old days!
Colonie Town Park – Pavillion II
$6 per car for parking Entrance to pool is additional
Info: 462-8260, or join the Facebook page “Albany South End”
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Albany Announces Academy Lofts
Capital Region Economic Development Council and the City of Albany Announce Academy Lofts Affordable Housing & Business Incubator Project Breaks Ground in Arbor Hill
CREDC officials today joined with Albany Mayor Jerry Jennings, representatives from New York State Homes & Community Renewal (HCR), Empire State Development (ESD), and the Albany Housing Authority for an official groundbreaking ceremony to kick off the start of construction of Academy Lofts.
“Academy Lofts is a terrific example of the kind of creative and pragmatic initiatives emerging from the regional economic development efforts created by Governor Cuomo,” said CREDC Co-Chairs James Barba, Albany Medical Center President and CEO, and President Robert Jones, University at Albany. “The state’s commitment to supporting local Investments like this will create jobs and enhance communities in the Capital Region and throughout our state.”
“Under Governor Cuomo’s leadership the Regional Economic Development Councils have created a bottom-up paradigm for success, with community development projects that grow the economy and are strategic priorities for the region,” said Darryl C. Towns, Commissioner & CEO of New York State Homes and Community Renewal. “Academy Lofts is designed to become a focal point, attracting development and growing the neighborhood and the economy. The project brings millions of dollars to Arbor Hill, contributing to the long term vision of greater revitalization. I congratulate the City of Albany, the Albany Housing Authority and Albany Barn Inc. for steering this innovative project to success.”
The adaptive re-use of St. Joseph’s Academy will revitalize a long vacant structure, helping to improve the quality of life in the Arbor Hill neighborhood. Located at North Swan and Second Streets, Academy Lofts will provide 22 affordable apartments to the artist community, with on-site studio space that will be multi-purposed as a business incubator for the arts and an arts-oriented community center open to local residents. High-design/high-concept features of the project will include space for work studios, rehearsal suites, performance space, a digital media center and retail space and offices for the professional artist community. Academy Lofts is projected to generate nearly $10 million in economic activity for the region and is leveraging resources from the City of Albany and the Albany Housing Authority.
Mayor Jennings said, “Building stronger, more vibrant neighborhoods is a priority in Albany. Our neighborhoods are rich in diversity, character, history and architecture, and as such, we are committed to preserving Albany’s past while creating a vibrant future for our community by developing programs and projects that encourage reinvestment in the community and in the people of the Capital City.”
In the first round of the Regional Council initiative, the City of Albany Industrial Development Authority (IDA) was awarded $5.4 million in low-cost financing to assist with major components of the restoration project.
In addition, Empire State Development has provided $4.5 million in Restore NY grant funding and HCR has awarded $2.4 million in Low Income Housing Tax Credits, as well as local support through the Federal Home Loan Bank, $350,000, and Historic Tax Credits.
“ESD is pleased to have provided assistance through its Restore NY program, which was created to revitalize neighborhoods as a means to attract residents and businesses and spur private investment,” said Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Kenneth Adams. “This project demonstrates what can be accomplished through collaboration on the state and local level and we look forward to Academy Lofts’ completion.”
Steven T. Longo, Executive Director of the Albany Housing Authority explained that the project satisfies four main criteria in the city’s plan to revitalize the Arbor Hill neighborhood. “It improves existing housing, provides economic development, fulfills historic preservation, and will address quality of life matters,” said Longo. “This project is a real game-changer.”
Mike Yevoli, Commissioner of the City of Albany’s Department of Development and Planning, said, “We have worked hard to bring the right partners and resources together to implement the Arbor Hill Plan and revitalize this historic neighborhood. This project is an excellent example of the City’s commitment to finding creative solutions for challenging vacant urban properties. Once rehabilitated, Academy Lofts will maximize the full potential of this historic building and allow it to once again serve as an anchor for the community.”
Jeff Mirel, President of Albany Barn, Inc., the project’s creative enterprise partner, said, “It’s truly a ‘rising tide’ type of project. Local and regional artists will come to create and collaborate affordably in the renewed St. Joseph’s Academy. This activity will attract other types of commerce, especially basic services that are absent today, and rekindle a lively village center in the heart of Arbor Hill. By establishing meaningful connections with artists, educators and entrepreneurs living and working in Academy Lofts/The Barn, we can lift the creative and professional aspirations of neighborhood youth.”
New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) consists of all the State’s major housing and community renewal agencies, including the Affordable Housing Corporation, the Division of Housing and Community Renewal, the Housing Finance Agency, State of New York Mortgage Agency, Housing Trust Fund Corporation and others.
The Regional Economic Development Council initiative (REDC) is a key component of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s transformative approach to State investment and economic development. In 2011, Governor Cuomo established 10 Regional Councils to develop long-term strategic plans for economic growth for their regions. The Councils are public-private partnerships made up of local experts and stakeholders from business, academia, local government, and non-governmental organizations. The Regional Councils have redefined the way New York invests in jobs and economic growth by putting in place a community-based, bottom up approach and establishing a competitive process for State resources. After two rounds of competitive awards, nearly 1,500 projects are receiving support to put people back to work, get the economy back on track, and restore New York State as the Empire State.
To learn more about each regional council and their economic development plans, visit www.regionalcouncils.ny.gov.
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