albany digest

in this issue...

pages 5-8 Downtown Businesses

page 10 DABID News & Development

page 12 Enhancing the District

page 14 Downtown Living

page 15 Featured Properties

FALL 2014 / ISSUE 3

A publication of the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District

and more...

Former Wellington Hotel Annex was imploded over the summer to make way for the Capital Center, Albany’s new convention center. For more information, see page 4.

DOWNTOWN

HONORABLE KATHY M. SHEEHAN, MAYOR CITY OF ALBANY

The full vibrancy of the Capital City was on display this summer as tens of thousands of people took to the streets, Riverfront and businesses to embrace all that Downtown has to offer.

Alive at Five was voted Metroland’s Best Concert Series, and each concert was attended by thousands of people. Efforts to bridge the Riverfront to Downtown continue, including partnering the shows with performances and exhibits by Albany Barn’s artists-in-residence at Maiden Lane Park, among others.

With partnerships like this one, we showcase not only everything that the City has to offer, but also that we are constantly adapting to ensure we fit the needs of visitors, residents and the roughly 20,000 people who are drawn to downtown Albany for work each day.

Recent trends show that more and more people are being drawn to urban living, which means more good news for the City of Albany. With Capital Region residents continuing to award Downtown’s restaurants, entertainment venues and art exhibitions “Best Of” prizes, it’s easy to understand the attraction! I invite you to join us in downtown Albany to experience all we have to offer first-hand.

Sincerely,

Hon. Kathy M. Sheehan | Mayor, City of Albany

GEORGETTE STEFFENS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Downtown was the place to be this summer! It started with Sir Paul McCartney and the hits kept coming. Justin Timberlake and Bruno Mars lit up the Times Union Center. Ringo Starr and Diana Ross played to packed houses at the Palace Theater. And Capital Rep embarked on their amazing 2014-2015 new season.

The music continued on the streets of Downtown through our wildly successful Sculpture in the Streets program. We were proud to host 13 pianos throughout Downtown designed and decorated by local artists as

part of the 2014 Play Me, I’m Yours exhibit. Over 260 videos and images of people playing, singing, and dancing were uploaded to our dedicated page on the international Play Me, I’m Yours website. This exhibit generated an estimated $27,000 value in free publicity and created new, lasting media relations.

The summer was capped off with the implosion of the Wellington Annex Building. Viewed by a few thousand of people at the Empire State Plaza and other locations around downtown Albany and on CNN news stations all over the world, this historic event paved the way for the new Capital Center – New York State’s premier convention center. This $66.5 million facility will create hundreds of construction and permanent jobs and is projected to attract 87,000 visitors annually resulting in $6 million per year in revenue to our local economy.

All of these events, plus the $180 million in development taking place in Downtown this year, remind us why downtown Albany is the heart of the Capital Region.

Sincerely,

Georgette Steffens | Executive Director

downtownalbany.org

DABID NEWS

3

It is with great excitement that I take over the helm of the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District Board. I had the pleasure of serving on the founding Board in 1996 and am thrilled to be back and involved in such a dynamic organization. I would like to thank Mark Holtzman for his service as Board Chair over the past year and will continue the momentum begun during his tenure.

This year Downtown will see unprecedented levels of investment that will forever change the landscape of our Capital City. Over the next 12-18 months, $180 million in development is anticipated to bring 120 residential units online, 600 new office tenants, and 87,000 visitors to utilize the new convention center and hotel. What a great opportunity the BID has to play a key role in identifying the needs in being able to welcome them to Downtown and offer concierge level customer service and amenities the Mayor often references. As the owner of Jack’s Oyster House and having recently celebrated our 100th year anniversary, I understand how critical that welcoming spirit can be in ensuring repeat customers.

In the coming year, the BID Board will focus our staffing and resources not only on our core services, but increased advocacy activity for the benefit of our Stakeholders. Thank you to all who participated in our advocacy survey that was sent out in March. Your feedback, along with discussion at the Board level, helped identify four main areas of focus:

n Parking n Previous Convention Center Site n Residential Development n Attraction of Additional Retail

Already we have made strides on each of these items and look forward to reporting our successes along the way. In the meantime if you have any questions or feedback, please don’t hesitate to contact myself or Georgette Steffens. I look forward to serving and working alongside you, our Stakeholder.

Sincerely,

Brad Rosenstein | BID Board Chair | Owner, Jack’s Oyster House

BRAD ROSENSTEIN, NEW BID BOARD CHAIR

BID Board & Staff NewsAt the Annual Meeting this past May, Karen LaBerge of Albany Management was elected to serve an additional three year term on the Board. Two new Board members were also elected and welcomed to the Downtown community. Congrats to all!

Louis Bannister became “Downtown Albany’s Florist” by opening the retail arm of his business, The Enchanted Florist, on 54 Columbia Street in July 2013. Louis was instrumental in the development of a shared common area and outdoor public arts venue in a thriving downtown in Vermont, a cooperation that included combined use of properties owned by a religious institution and the municipality.

Louis also participated in the creation of a Garden Space for public use by a community of downtown apartment dwellers.

Louis’ past Board experience includes: First Night Burlington, OutRight Vermont, Green Mountain Teen Institute, Echo Valley Community Arts, The Full Ladle Soup Kitchen, State of Vermont Department of Health and Epidemiology Funding Review Board.

Holly Brown has lived in the heart of downtown Albany for the past two years and is currently the Executive Director of the historic Palace Theatre. A veteran in the live entertainment industry for the past 25 years, Holly has a wealth of experience in multi-faceted and sized entertainment arenas and theatre spaces, including an extensive background in marketing, advertising, communications and public

relations experience. She has also worked with the development of national traveling acts, touring over 450 different markets.

She previously served on the Downtown Development Board for the City of Clearwater, Florida.

New Board Members

Rebecca Haizmann joined the BID team as the Communications Coordinator in early June 2014 and is responsible for the Organization’s traditional and new media communications including the weekly e-newsletter, website, and social media channels. She comes to the BID from The Record newspaper in Troy,

NY where she held a variety of positions including Copy Editor, City Editor and Audience Engagement Editor.

She can be reached at rhaizmann@downtownalbany.org | 518.465.2143 x10

New Staff Member Joins the BID

downtownalbany.org

Inside the luxury apartments Park Place at 60 State.

DOWNTOWN LIVING

On July 29, 2014, Park Place at 60 State apartments officially opened its doors. A ribbon cutting and open house were held at Downtown Albany’s latest residential project, allowing State, County and City officials and the general public an all access tour of the stunning apartments.

The project represents one of three major residential conversions currently taking place that will collectively increase the number of market rate apartments in Downtown by 48 percent. The implied modern design used in the restoration of the historic building was strategic in being able to attract urban minded tenants to lease at Park Place at 60 State.

The apartments boast hardwood floors, 10’ French doors and windows, high ceilings, washer/dryer, floor to ceiling tile in all the bathrooms, California closets, and security systems to just name a few of the amenities. Penthouses offer the aforementioned in addition to mezzanine’s, 20’ ceilings, electronic blinds and lift and slide doors to balconies.

To schedule a showing, contact Gordon Development at 518.462.7411 or email melissa@gordondevelopment.net.

Additional projects that are currently under construction are:

n 412 Broadway (The Argus Building): 47,300 SF building, 32 apartments, 6,400 SF of commercial space on the ground floor estimated to be completed early winter.

n 488 Broadway (The Arcade Building): 75,000 SF building, 60 apartments, 12,600 SF of commercial retail space on the first floor. Expected completion of this project is Spring 2015.

n 380 Broadway: 10 unit conversion project that consists of a range from 600 SF studios to 850 SF 1 bedroom apartments. With a fall completion scheduled on construction, this building is already full leased.

residences on the rise

August 23, 2014 was a historic day for downtown Albany. At approximately 9:20 AM the Wellington Annex building came down in a matter of seconds. Touted on CNN as the “Best Building Implosion Ever” and viewed not just locally, but throughout the United States and as far away as Spain, once again Albany was placed on a global stage.

Beginning with fireworks and ending with a cloud of smoke, the implosion is paving the way for over $120 million of investment. That number represents the following projects:

Capital Center – New York State’s premier convention center, when combined with the Times Union Center and the Empire State Plaza the Center is two and half times the size of other regional venues, opening September 2016 n Create 157 permanent jobs and 114 construction jobsn Attract 87,000 visitors and 40,000 room nights per year

n Generate over $6 million in spending in the local economy

Renaissance Hotel – Marriott’s luxury product n 204 room hoteln Second largest full-service hotel in Downtownn 100 permanent jobs

Wellington Row – mixed use project n Capital Bank’s new regional headquarters, as well as their

wealth management division, and bank branch located heren Will house Aeon Nexus, a Glens Falls based software companyn Four upscale residential unitsn Reuse of historic facadesn 70 permanent jobs

It is projects like these that remind us we are the Capital City of the most recognizable state in the world.

making way for progress

The list of new businesses to Downtown is impressive. Not just in the number of businesses but in the diverse nature of what they offer and provide to their customers.

One business in particular, Pinnacle Human Resources, LLC, is an established firm that recently relocated to downtown Albany. With so many different options available for businesses to set up shop, we asked Owner Rose Miller “Why downtown?” Her response is one that is an echoed sentiment, “We are a professional services firm and we couldn’t think of a better fit for us than downtown Albany. We have an amazing view from the 7th floor at 90 State. We call it ‘command center!’ And we have received overwhelmingly positive comments from clients, other businesses and our employees.”

Another big draw for Miller was the Executive Suite option offered at 90 State and several other buildings in Downtown. While renting their own office space, Pinnacle now has access to a shared conference room, a receptionist, printers and copiers, ultimately lowering their overhead. Many smaller companies are finding this type of shared work environment to be a wonderful tool that allows them to focus directly on the core of their business and customer base.

As far as human resources firms go, Pinnacle has highly experienced professionals that become a business owner’s “trusted advisor” and help clients maximize the human capital of their business. Most importantly though, they not only advise but actually have people available to perform the work.

For those seeking advice, Pinnacle has a number of upcoming training sessions (see schedule at right). The interactive breakfast for business owners, managers and HR departments, focuses on what employees really want. To register, or for more information about upcoming sessions, call 518.486.8152.

2014

n Diversity In The Workplace - Nov 12

n Measuring Performance - Dec 17

2015

n Why You Need An Employee Handbook - Jan 14

n How To Win Unemployment Cases - Feb 11

n Teambuilding - March 11

n Smart Hiring Practices - April 22

n When To Terminate - May 13

n Technology In The Workplace - July 15

n Fair Labor Standards Act - June 17

For more information on Pinnacle Human Resources, visit their website at pinnaclehrllc.com.

home away from homeJGI Media’s move and expansion into the Downtown arena was not only the right location for their marketing plan, but also the right time. SEE PAGE 8

Pinnacle Human Resources, LLC

Many smaller companies are finding this type of shared work environment to be a wonderful tool.

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DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES

DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES

downtownalbany.org

Irish Pub Comes to DowntownIt’s a cozy bar and casual dining in one, a great place to grab a quick breakfast or a drink after work – it’s Public House 42. Bringing with it the feel of an Irish pub, the Downtown eatery is the latest business from Chris Pratt, who also owns The Pearl Street Pub and The Capital American Eatery & Lounge.

The menu includes traditional Irish fare like corned beef and cabbage, plus items that put new twists on the traditional – think Guinness baked mac & cheese. And if you’re interested in having a drink or bite to eat and watching the construction of the upcoming Convention Center, there’s no better place.

Stop in Monday through Friday for a muffin or coffee (among other breakfast choices), or for a full meal at lunch and dinner; also open on Saturday for lunch, dinner and drinks.

42 Eagle Street | 518.650.6015

Some Other Businesses that have Recently Opened an Office in Downtown Albany are:n 360 Marketing, LLC -11 N. Pearl St.

n Accella - 90 State St. | accela.com

n Accenture - 41 State St. | accenture.com

n Certified Document Security - 418 Broadway | BEAHIVE | trustincds.com

n Clough Harbour & Associates - 575 Broadway | chacompanies.com

n Cronin Technology Consulting - 418 Broadway | BEAHIVE | 518.336.5133

n Virginia Eubanks - 11 N. Pearl St. | digitaldeadend.com

n Dr. Shahrokh Falati, Esq - 11 N. Pearl St. | falati.com

n Hamlin Design Group - 41 State St. | hamlindesigngroup.com

n H2M Architects & Engineers - 99 Pine St. | h2m.com

n Law Office of Jason Korta - 90 State St. | kortalaw.com

n Medical Answering Services - 11 N. Pearl St. | medanswering.com

n New York State Alcohol and Substance Abuse Providers - 11 N. Pearl St. | asapnys.org

n Remi Holdings LLC - 41 State St. | 518.443.0474

n Brenda Rusch - 11 N. Pearl St. | brendarusch.com

n Specialty Lighting Group - 418 Broadway | BEAHIVE | sslighting.com

n Unique Comp, Inc. - 90 State St. | uciny.com

n We Care Nursing Solutions - 100 State St. | 518.434.4000

n Wemett & Hall LLC - 90 State St. | wemett-hall.com

For a complete directory of companies and businesses in the District, please visit downtownalbany.org.

There’s a new café in Downtown, offering both lunch and a sense of nostalgia – if you long for the days of infamous robbers, that is.

Located at 100 State Street, The Vault Café’s menu offers up items with names based on the theme of bank robberies - and the people who famously perpetrated them. Options include burritos, rice bowls, salads and wraps with names ranging from The Safe Deposit Box burrito to the Bonnie & Clyde wrap.

Owner Sandra Poulen opened the café after purchasing the space that formerly housed Dave’s Snack Bar. With 17 years in the

restaurant business, encompassing everything from server to manager, she saw the opportunity to run her own business just as her son was leaving for college.

Poulen, a Vermont native, recognized the Downtown location as an opportunity to engage with an active city.

Open Monday – Friday 100 State Street | 518.694.0379 Facebook.com/TheVaultCafeAlbany

Serving Up Nostalgia

The pub at Public House 42

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DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES

Raise a Glass to DowntownResidents who need to make a quick purchase within walking distance of their residence, and employees heading home from a long day at work, now have a convenient stop. One of the newest retailers to open up in Downtown is Broadway Plaza Liquor, located at 418 Broadway.

“Broadway Plaza Liquor was born out of necessity,” says Richard Metzger, owner of the new shop, “I saw a need in the neighborhood and I am delivering that service.”

Service is actually one of the main forces behind the business plan for the store. Along with selection, competitive pricing, weekly specials and close outs, the store plans to feature an extensive variety of New York produced wines and spirits. The shop hosts a free ongoing wine tasting on Thursday’s from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM, featuring different favorites and vineyards. Free delivery and wine storage is also available.

Richard’s business investment surprisingly netted more than just filling a void. He also acquired downtown Albany icon and convenience store, Coulson’s News, located next door to Broadway Plaza Liquor. According to Richard, customers will see new options and co-promotions between the stores, making one stop for two different stores.

418 Broadway | 518.462.3607 | broadwayplazaliquor.com

If you remember, Coulson’s made national news back in 2011 when the convenience store sold a winning $319 Mega Millions lottery jackpot ticket. Now after 100 years in business, it has a new story to tell from the new business owner. Richard Metzger, who purchased the Broadway building, has renovated the shop, making the convenience store more attractive and providing expanded options.

But don’t worry – all those newspapers will still be a main stay.

And as luck would have it, the iconic Coulson’s business name won’t change either.

Richard also has plans to renovate the upper floors of the building either into apartments or offices at a later date.

420 Broadway | 518.449.7577

Old School, New Feel

Customers peruse the aisles of Broadway Plaza Liquor.

A plan, years in the making, finally came to fruition as Francis Verret, owner of the former Red Square, re-branded and expanded into Parish Public House – A Louisiana Eatery and Drinkery.

While the restaurant and entertainment venue will continue its focus on bringing live entertainment to its patrons, hours and menu items have changed, bringing a taste of Louisiana to Downtown. Originally from Lafayette, Louisiana, Vettet has long envisioned bringing his heritage to Downtown by serving up tried and true Cajun specialties. Now open for lunch, the menu items include gumbo, burgers, po boys, alligator bites and more.

It is more than the menu that derives from the south, it’s in the name as well. In Louisiana, a Parish is akin to a county in New York – it’s an identity, a home and a community. With a philosophy based on freshness across their food, drinks and music, the Parish Public House uses a local and regional base to source quality ingredients, provide microbrews from the northeast and Louisiana, and continues to bring in live music spanning genres from bluegrass to rock to country.

388 Broadway | 518.465.0444

Taste of Louisiana

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.

DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES

downtownalbany.org

BEAHIVE Albany, which two years ago became the Capital Region’s first co-working space, has moved to a larger space to accommodate its growing clientele. Now located on the second floor of 418 Broadway, the Hive offers high-tech fiber broadband connections, additional workspaces and conference space for member use. The space also includes shared workspace and lounge areas, meeting space, desks and tables, sofas and armchairs.

Other amenities of BEAHIVE include:

n Networked laser printers

n Use of kitchen/kitchenette

n Use of books, magazines, newspapers

n Free or discounted access to programs and events

n Free or discounted use of conference rooms and space rentals

A variety of membership plans are available, as well as day passes for those who need a place to work for a day or two.

418 Broadway | 518.426.5211

Busy Little Buzz

As of this past May, the Downtown Albany Farmer’s Market has returned to a larger location at SUNY Plaza. Shop the market for fresh produce, flowers and plants, breads and cheeses, local cider, wine and much more every Thursday from 11:00AM to 2:00PM. In addition to helping increase the number of vendors and variety of goods, the BID has also partnered with Governor Cuomo’s FreshConnect program to provide greater access to locally grown fresh produce in high-need areas. A free shuttle with multiple stops in Downtown was also provided with help from a FreshConnect grant and transportation provided by CDTA.

With SUNY Plaza hosting the market for the spring and summer months, the BID, SUNY and the Downtown Farmer’s Market Association have plans to continue the market throughout the fall and winter months inside the SUNY Administration building. A four-season market is a huge win for downtown Albany and will provide a variety of goods year round to residents, employees and visitors.

Fresh Food, Each Week

expanding in downtown...

Media has always been a passion of JGI Media founder, John J. Raspante, so much so that he couldn’t wait to start producing and developing his talents. Fresh out of high school he started his music studio and then while still in college, he built his first website. Frederick Davis, partner at JGI media, is the founder of Karma Marketing, a digital media advertising agency. He holds over 15 years of experience in the advertising/marketing industry, in addition to a Broadcasting Media Degree from the New School of Radio & Television. The two met and began collaborating in 2008, pulling together their complementing strengths in technology and knowledge of the music industry. Today, as business partners of JGI Media, their new Downtown office space allows clients the ability to record audio, mix and master music and develop products like commercials, audio books, corporate and music videos and more.

As a full-scale music, audio, video production studio and marketing firm specializing in creative technical services such as graphic design, website development and animation, their business plan includes strategies to grow their corporate marketing clients. In addition to their extensive music production abilities, the two are passionate about digital media and cultivating clients in all industries. JGI Media believes that they fill a boutique niche for clients crafting messages for the millennial generation.

52 South Pearl Street, 2nd Floor | 518.487.4759 | jgimedia.com

Recording in Downtown

Each year the James M. DiNapoli Award is given to an individual, organization or business that exemplifies Mr. DiNapoli’s spirit of partnership with the BID in shaping the direction of downtown Albany. The Board announced at this year’s Annual Meeting 2014 recipient, I. David Swawite.

Mr. Swawite is founder and major supporter of the BID’s Sculpture in the Streets art exhibit and serves on numerous boards and committees, including Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Albany Institute of History and Art and The Center for Economic Growth. The largest property owner in the BID, he is a long term supporter of Capital Repertory Theatre and the Albany Symphony Orchestra, and recently served as Vice-Chairman of the Board of the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District.

Serving as President, Chief Operating Officer and principal shareholder of the Omni Group of companies – which include Omni Development Company, Inc., Omni Management Group, Ltd., Omni Housing Development LLC and other affiliated companies – Mr. Swawite has overseen the development of commercial, residential, and hospitality real estate as well as construction management, real estate facilities management, leasing, ownership and financing.

Swawite Receives DiNapoli Award

Play Me, I’m Yours piano at First Church in Albany

How hot was Albany this summer? Sizzling!

If you were walking around Downtown from mid June through the end of July, chances are good you saw some very playful – and playable – pianos adorning our streets. As the 2014 Sculpture in the Streets program, the 13 Play Me, I’m Yours pianos drew an estimated $27,000 in free publicity for Downtown through print, online, television, and other media; that’s 43% of all the free publicity garnered in 2013 from one event. Drawing people from across all demographics, the exhibit also drew individuals from around the globe, including Holland – and made an appearance in Sir Paul McCartney’s tour video.

On top of media coverage, the Sculpture in the Streets program webpage on the BID site received well over 2,000 visits during the exhibit, which ran from June 13 through July 27, and the walking tour map had over 1,200 views. It was not just web traffic, it was also foot traffic. There were over 260 uploads of videos and photos to the exhibit’s dedicated page and there were countless others uploaded to social media on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

If you missed out on the exhibit, or simply want to relive it, you can see the photos and videos uploaded by the public at www.pianosalbanyny.com

one hot summer

BID executive director with I. David Swawite, recipient of the 2014 Jim DiNapoli Award.

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DOWNTOWN ALBANY BID

downtown albany publication evolvesDowntown Digest Newsletter Goes OnlineLove this Downtown Digest? Did you know you can read it online at downtownalbany.org? Beginning in 2015, we will no longer be mailing out the Digest, but limited numbers will still be distributed throughout Downtown. And of course, it will be available online for you to read at anytime.

Stay connected to us! Sign up today for our Links e-newsletter at http://bit.ly/LinksSubscribe to ensure you’re notified when the latest Downtown Digest is uploaded to our website. For updates each day from Downtown, follow us on our social media channels (see below for all addresses).

Downtown Albany MapWe are excited to announce that the print Downtown Albany guide you are familiar with will transition into a new marketing piece. Get ready for the Downtown Albany Map coming this December. The Downtown Albany Business Improvement District directory will remain updated and online on the BID’s website (downtownalbany.org) as it has always been, with the new map piece focusing on increasing foot traffic throughout the District, connecting the public with retail, restaurants, entertainment, parking, and informational resources.

Be in the Know

Find out what’s going on in the District by following us on Facebook (AlbanyBID), Twitter (@AlbanyBID), Instagram (@downtownalbany) and signing up for our weekly e-newsletter Links (http://bit.ly/LinksSubscribe).

Enjoying a beautiful day in Downtown at Tricentennial Park.

DOWNTOWN ALBANY BID

downtownalbany.org

downtown albany publication evolves

11

DABID NEWS

Did you know that $180 million of investment is happening in downtown Albany right now?

BID staff has been hard at work getting the word out about all of the exciting development. For the past few months, the BID has been hosting coffee meet & greets in the lobbies of some of our most prominent office buildings. Interacting with office tenants, answering questions, and allowing people to sign up for our e-newsletter, LINKS, are just a small part of what we are doing to help change the perception of Downtown. We’ve met so many great people and are grateful for everyone’s enthusiasm and suggestions.

Our marketing team has created a poster that is being displayed throughout Downtown with a few facts about different apartment conversions, new construction and new companies.

Thank you to the building owners and property managers of the following buildings for letting us take over some space in your lobbies for our coffee meet & greets to engage the Downtown community and speak to them about what is happening:

n 30 S Pearl Street - Omni Development

n 40 Beaver Street - Omni Development

n 41 State Street - Albany Management

n 50 Beaver Street - Omni Development

n 54 State Street - Omni Development

n 99 Pine Street - Carrow Real Estate Services

n 110 State Street - Carrow Real Estate Services/ State of New York

n 112 State Street - Albany County

Communication boards have begun appearing in Downtown office and residential lobbies, educating Stakeholders about exciting development currently underway.

spreading the wordThe BID in Your Office

Drawing People to DowntownOver the past few months, the DAY Life Committee members and BID staff have taken a concrete look at how the BID can assist in tenant attraction for our vacant office spaces. A key initiative resulting from those conversations was the creation of a Business Development Packet.

Created as a digital resource, a PDF version of the pertinent components of living and working in Downtown was created and will be placed online mid-November. It consists of four separate documents that can be viewed online or printed at the reader’s convenience.

Be Here: Answers the question, “Why Albany?” and is a concise description of the amenities we enjoy here in downtown Albany. Featured lists are: ease of access, world-class dining, overnight stays, entertainment venues and more.

Day Life: What is happening with our day time work force?

What are some of the companies that make up the day life in Downtown? Did you know that 8 Fortune 500 Companies have offices in downtown Albany?

Residential: Around every corner a new opportunity for living Downtown is popping up. This piece outlines what exactly is happening with those residential opportunities.

In Development: Offers a snapshot of all the development projects that are currently underway in the district ($180 million worth to be exact). Curious about what that crane is doing? We have the answers.

Of interest and value to property owners, realtors and businesses that are looking for ways to attract more tenants to Downtown, please visit our website at downtownalbany.org and begin sharing this information on your favorite social media channel and with all your clients.

Curious or have a question about Downtown? Visit our website at downtownalbany.org or call us at 518.465.2143. We would be happy to answer any questions.

downtownalbany.org

Downtown is BloomingEach year, the BID purchases over 300 hanging flower baskets from a local contracted grower and installs them on light poles along the streets of Downtown. These beautiful flowers are maintained and watered seven days a week throughout the summer and are all part of the BID’s flowering basket program. Flowers are the cornerstone of any beautification program and they certainly enhance the existing vibrancy of downtown Albany!

Squeaky CleanMeet Donald Tanksley and Isaiah DeFreest, the newest members of the Downtown Albany BID Clean Team. They join the team led by Scott Reed and are dedicated to keeping the streets of downtown Albany free from trash and debris. The Clean Team is also another set of eyes and ears within the District, reporting graffiti and any other issues that may arise. Need directions? Looking for an ATM? Lose something downtown? The Clean Team has you covered. As ambassadors of our Capital City, they are available for directions, general assistance and to answer any questions that visitors, new office tenants or residents may have regarding Downtown.

DOWNTOWN ALBANY BID

From left: Clean Team members Donald Tanksley, Isaiah DeFreest and Scott Reed.

One of the over 300 hanging flower baskets hung around Downtown.

enhancing the district

“ ”As a BID Board Member I continually hear from our business and property owners how clean Downtown is, how beautiful the flowers are, and the positive impact it has in drawing office tenants, businesses, and customers into their business or building.– Rich Rosen, Vice Chair of the BID Board, Columbia Development

13

enhancing the 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.

In August Downtown was one of four Capital Region locations to host Social Bicycles – bicycles that could be borrowed for free as part of BikeShare month. Here we see two bikes in Tricentennial Park, one of the locations in Downtown where bikes could be picked up or returned.

The BID was one of the dropoff locations for The Food Pantries food drive over the summer. Here BID operations manager Don Wilson donates some items.

Multimedia company JGI opened in Downtown over the summer, and partner Frederick Davis, BID executive director Georgette Steffens, founder John J. Raspante and Albany mayor Kathy Sheehan are all smiles at the grand opening celebration. Learn more about JGI in the new business section of the Digest.

YNN interviews executive director Georgette Steffens at the BID’s Garden Party which kicked off “Play Me, I’m Yours”, this year’s Sculpture in the Streets. Read more about the program on page 15.

Downtown Albany lit up this summer with huge shows that came our way – including the one and only Sir Paul McCartney! He played to a packed house on July 5 at the Times Union Center. (Photo credit: TonyIadicicco.com)

The BID was at the FreshConnect Farmers Market each week over the summer during which time intern Nicole collected over 600 email addresses for our e-newsletter Links.

BID board member Steven Clearly and executive director Georgette Steffens at the annual meeting, held in May of this year.

Time to feast! BID communications coordinator Rebecca Haizmann (left) and assistant director Marquita Rhodes (right) took our intern Nicole out to celebrate her time with the organization and all she had accomplished.

Owner of The Enchanted Florist Louis Bannister (and new BID Board Member) stopped in to say hello at the BID office, and never missing an opportunity for photos, assistant director Marquita Rhodes snapped this image.

DOWNTOWN ALBANY BID

83-87 Beaver Streetn Availability: 2 units n 1,052 SF – 1,639 SFn Bedrooms: 1-2 n Bathrooms: 1-2Price: 1 BR starting at $1,400; 2 BR starting at $1,800.Amenities: All units are finished with the highest quality of materials, finishes and craftsmanship. Each unit has hardwood flooring, high ceilings, gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances, high-end bathrooms and in-unit washer and dryer. Indoor and outdoor parking is available. Contact: Daniel Oh | 518.456.9265

370 Broadway | Meginniss Flatsn Availability: 1 unit n Sq. Footage: 1,600 SFn Bedrooms: 2 n Bathrooms: 2.5Price: $1,450 per monthAmenities: W/D, granite countertops, security system, high speed internet (included in rental price), garbage disposal, central air, freight elevator. Contact: Kathleen Gilboy, Realty USA | 518.588.2068

522-524 Broadway | Penta on Broadwayn Availability: 2 units n Sq. Footage: 1,100 SFn Bedrooms: 2 bedroom penthouse n Bathrooms: 1Price: $1,650 per monthAmenities: Granite countertops, hardwood floors, Roman shower, fitness room and rooftop patio. Parking is available.Contact: Jessica Maddalone, 518.346.8600, Jessica@maddalone.net 17 Chapeln Availability: 1 unit (Stuyvesant) n Sq. Footage: 1,675 SF – Unit 402 n Bedrooms: 2 + Library n Bathrooms: 2 Price: $495,000, includes $60,000 in builder upgrades.Amenities: Customizable flooring, cabinets, appliances, fixtures, indoor parking, weight room, on-site grocery delivery, walk-in closetsContact: Kathleen Sullivan, 518.203.2555

23 N Pearl Streetn Availability: 1 unit n Sq. Footage: 1,200 SFn Bedrooms: 1 n Bathrooms: 1 Price: $1,250 Amenities: Spacious unit with granite countertops, hardwood floors, washer/dryer, stainless steel appliances, central air, additional storage units.Contact: Konstantinos Moutopoulis, 518.441.0748

60 State Street | Park Place at 60 Staten Availability: 5 units n Sq. Footage: 575 SF -1,840 SF n Bedrooms: studio-2 n Bathrooms: 1-2Price: 1 and 2 bedrooms starting at $1,800Amenities: 12’ ceilings, floor to ceiling windows, hardwood floors, stone counters, washer/dryer, common roof deck. Parking is available.Contact: Melissa Jochum, 518.462.7411 x608

Available Living SpacesAdding another residential building (Park Place at 60 State) as an option for this feature is such great news for BID Stakeholders and the community. In the coming months we will be adding more and Albany’s newest neighborhood will continue to grow. For a complete listing of residential projects in Downtown, please go to our website at www.downtownalbany.org

DOWNTOWN LIVING

downtownalbany.org

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BID Boundry

50 Chapel Street, 3,400 SF office space with electric and gas included. Quiet downtown Albany side street. Convenient location. Great price. Ideal for professional offices.Robert SneeringerSneeringer Monohan Provost Redgrave Title Agency, Inc.518.434.0127rsneeringer@smprtitle.com

22 Clinton Avenue, 8,000 SF of restaurant space available (former Brown Derby) in a larger 16,000 SF three story building. Includes secure on-site parking for 15+/- cars, directly across from the Palace Theater in the heart of the Entertainment District, one block from the Hampton Inn. There is also office space (3,700 SF) available on the second floor.John MacAfferCBRE518.452.2700John.MacAffer@cbre-albany.com

5 Clinton Square, 2,200 SF of office space or two suites of 1,100 SF across the street from the Palace Theatre. Full floor with lots of windows. Tenant can select design and finishes.Tracy MetzgerTL Metzger & Associates, LLC518.426.5211tracy@tlmetzger.com

10 North Pearl Street, 32,471 SF office space sublease on a prime corner in the central business district. Space is divided between three floors; 6,771 SF (2nd floor), 12,850 SF (3rd floor), 12,850 SF (4th floor). Sublease through January, 2018. Building offers bright space, private offices and open space along with amenities including retail, daycare, and Starbucks.Jeff SperryCBRE|Albany518.452.2700 x 114jeff.sperry@cbre-albany.com

100 State Street, perfect Downtown Albany Office spaces available to lease from 347 SF offices to 3,200 SF suites with many amenities, on-site deli, on-site lunch room seating in our vault, executive conference room, steps from the Capitol, within the Downtown Business District, public transportation right outside our door, street parking in the front and back of our building and parking garages within a one block radius. Melissa Martino Albany State Street Heights Associates, LLC 646.572.6473 mmartino@heightsre.com

30 South Pearl Street-Omni Plaza, Suites from 1,500- 17,000 (full floor) SF available. Distinctive office suites located in Downtown’s premier location. On-site restaurant, take-out kiosk and meeting/banquet facility. Discount membership to Omni Fitness Center. Felton McLaughlinNAI Platform518.465.1400x204fmclaughlin@naiplatform.com

41 State Street, Professional office space in a perfect location. Offering flexible options for any business from individual Executive Suite offices up to 15,500 SF per floor. Customized floor plans, on-site management, private large conference room, janitorial and parking included in the rent. Building amenities include a full service salon and bank , restaurant and last but not least, unparalleled views of our majestic Hudson River. Come and see why existing and new Downtown Tenants are moving to 41 STATE.Karen LabergeAlbany Management518.458.7113klaberge@albanymanagement.com

63 State Street, 5,878 SF office building for lease. Constructed in 1890 as a bank, this is a great opportunity for a single tenant user with ample parking available. Rudy LynchCarrow Real Estate518.462.4791x 207

80 State Street, Various floors available with 1,600-4,300 SF. The lobby, restrooms, and elevators have recently been remodeled. Amenities include fitness center, banking facilities, 24/7 access, and 24/7 security.Janet Kaplan80 State Street LLC518.482.8986 ext 202jkaplan@stuyvesantplaza.com

121 State Street, 10,000 SF of Class “A” Office Space, convenient location, 200 yards from Capitol, Courts and Government Offices. (Parking garage available close by). High speed fiber optic for internet and telephones available. Full kitchen and mail/file room. Large conference room and executive office.Paul ChevalierHinman Straub518.689.7265pchevalier@hinmanstraub.com

79 N. Pearl Street, 4,900 SF of office space (over 4 floors) in an historic building in the heart of Downtown. Space boasts exposed brick, 16’ ceilings, arched doorways, tons of natural light, and large open spaces. The famous Brewster Building, the original home the Albany Business School has been a landmark building on Pearl Street since 1887. Ideal space for creative companies. Robert De BenedettiProperty Manager518.229.8338robert5508@aol.com

FEATURED PROPERTIESLooking 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 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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DOWNTOWN PROPERTIES

Whether DAY Life or NIGHT Life, downtown Albany is the GOOD Life. Thank you to our wonderful 2014 sponsors for making Downtown a vibrant place to work, live and play.

ANNUAL MEETING SPONSORSn M&T Bank n Sixty State Place | Gordon Companiesn CDTA n Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown Albanyn Schenectady County Community Collegen CSArch Architecture | Engineering | Construction Management

Special Thanks to Cafe Capriccio, Jack’s Oyster House, Mazzone Hospitality, Taste, Yono’s | dp An American Brasserie and Zachary’s Pastry Shoppe

FOOD FIGHT | “MEAT”BALL EDITION SPONSORSn Albany.com n CDTA

GARDEN PARTY SPONSORn Omni Development Company, Inc.

SCULPTURE IN THE STREETS SPONSORSn Boies, Schiller & Flexner, LLP Stewart’s Shopsn Columbia Development n Hampton Inn & Suites n Key Bankn Kivort Steel n KPMG n O’Connell & Aronowitz n Rosenblum Companies n The Palace Theatre n Pioneer Bank n The Swyer Companies

Special Thanks to The City of Albany, Albany County Executive Office, Burkins & Foley, Capitalize Albany Corporation, City of Albany, Empire wine, The Enchanted Florist, Galesi Group, Larry Hilton, inVision Studios, Mazzone Hospitality, Total Events, LLC

MISSION STATEMENTTo 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

Executive CommitteeBrad Rosenstein, Chairperson Jack’s Oyster HouseRichard Rosen, Vice Chairperson Columbia Development CompaniesMichael Gulotty, Treasurer Vista Host, Inc.James Hart, Secretary Merrill Lynch Wealth ManagementBoard MembersMark Aronowitz, Omni Development Company, Inc.Louis Bannister, The Enchanted FloristHolly Brown, Palace TheatrePhilip F. Calderone, Esq., Office of the Albany County ExectuiveStephen M. Cleary, Hinman Straub P.C.Mark Holtzman, KPMGJeffrey Gordon, Gordon CompaniesKaren Laberge, Albany ManagementJames Linnan, Linnan & Fallon, LLCHon. Daniel P. McCoy, Albany County ExecutiveHon. Carolyn McLaughlin, Common CouncilFelton McLaughlin, NAI PlatformDominick Purnomo, Yono’s Restaurant/dp An American BrasserieHon. Darius Shahinfar, Albany City TreasurerHon. Kathy M. Sheehan, Mayor, City of AlbanyShane Spillenger, Property OwnerMitzi Stewart, NYS Dormitory AuthorityMark Yonally, B. Lodge & Co.

STAFFGeorgette Steffens, Executive DirectorMarquita Rhodes, Assistant Director Don Wilson, Operations ManagerRebecca Haizmann, Communications Coordinator

INTERNSJake Files, Marketing InternNicole LaFreniere, Marketing InternDesirae Mayo, Business Development Intern

40 N Pearl Street, Suite 1 n Albany, NY 12207 T: 518.465.2143 | F: 518.465.0139downtownalbany.org

Non-Profit Org.U.S.

PAID Albany, NY

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digest

FALL 2014 / ISSUE 3

downtownalbany.org

Brian Sansone 1957 – 2014

It is with great fondness and sadness that we remember Brian Sansone, who passed away this May. A member of the Downtown Albany Clean Team for close to three years, Brian brought his unique ambassadorship to creating a sense of community on the historic streets of our District. A lover of animals, the BID is making a donation to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society in his memory. For more information on the Humane Society, or if you would like to make a donation, visit www.mohawkhumane.org or call 518.434.8128.