Albany · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Albany public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Thornton Street Dwelling Conversion
A proposal to convert a single-family home at 28 Thornton Street into a two-unit residence will be reviewed by the planning board.
Campus Redevelopment
Albany County leaders have picked a winning plan to turn part of the empty College of Saint Rose campus into senior housing. It's a huge step toward fixing up that quiet neighborhood and putting the vacant buildings to good use.
Data Center Development
Developers want to build a new data center on the historic Kenwood site in South Albany, but local residents are totally divided on whether it's a good idea. While some see potential for growth, others are worried about the changes it will bring to their neighborhood.
Central Warehouse redevelopment
Albany County officials are finally dropping an update on what's next for the Central Warehouse, the massive eyesore that's dragged down downtown for years. If you're tired of looking at that crumbling concrete, this update might finally signal some real change.
Stewart's Shops Redevelopment and Lot Consolidation
Stewart's wants to tear down current buildings at 90 Shaker Road and 349 Northern Boulevard, combine the lots, and build a bigger store with gas pumps and 27 parking spots. Neighbors and local stakeholders weighed in during public comment before the board pushed pause on the project.
Historic Cherry Hill Parking Improvements
Historic Cherry Hill is seeking to add 11 new parking spaces and an ADA-accessible area near its South Pearl Street property. The planning board deferred the review, putting off decisions on how the new lot and retaining walls will affect the neighborhood.
Standardization of Commission on Human Rights Terms
The city is streamlining the terms of its Human Rights Commission members so they all end on the same day in December. This makes it easier to hold elections and keep the board running smoothly.
Townhouse Conversion at 369 Madison Avenue
A proposal to convert an existing two-family townhouse into a three-unit residential building on Madison Avenue aims to increase housing options.
Corporate Woods Parking Lot Expansion
The New York State Teachers Retirement System is proposing to add about 113 new parking spaces and upgrade stormwater systems at its office building on Corporate Woods Drive.
Ground Floor Event Space Conversion at 56 Robin Street
A vacant ground-floor space on Robin Street is getting new life as a community event venue following a conditional use permit approval.
Land Bank Demolitions on First and Second Streets
The Albany County Land Bank is tearing down three vacant or deteriorated residential buildings to clear the way for future neighborhood improvement.
Exterior Modifications at 10 Willett Street
First Presbyterian Church is proposing a new exterior vestibule and roof equipment, prompting a design review to ensure it fits the Washington Park Historic District.
Townhouse Conversion at 45 First Street
Albany Properties LLC received approval to convert a single-family townhouse into a two-unit dwelling, adding housing density to the neighborhood.
Economic Development
Governor Hochul just dropped a massive $10 billion to build a cutting-edge research hub at Albany Nanotech, meaning a huge boom for local high-tech jobs and tech investment. If you live around here, this is a massive win for the local economy and puts our tech scene on the map.