The Revitalization of the South End: Progress Report: 2007-2009
04 Mar 2010
by:
NEW REPORT SHOWS SIGNIFICANT PROGRESS MADE TOWARD REVITALIZING SOUTH END
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Doug Melnick
January 13, 2010 Director of Planning
434-2532 ext. 15
The South End Action Committee announce millions have been committed to projects
ALBANY, N.Y. – Mayor Gerald D. Jennings and the South End Action Committee (SEAC) announced today (January 13, 2010) the release of the Revitalization of the South End progress report. In the two years since completing the Capital South Plan: SEGway to the Future, the City of Albany and the SEAC have attracted millions of dollars in new development and generated employment opportunities, both of which are goals laid out in the 2007 plan.
Since completing the Capital South Plan, the City of Albany and SEAC have focused on the stabilization of the South End as an early action item. This report identifies a number of the key projects. In these past two years, the South End has welcomed substantial new development, including the rehabilitation of 42 residential units, and an additional construction of 10 new, lease-to-own units. In all, this amounted to over $12 million in private and public funding directly benefiting the residents of the South End.
“I am proud of these accomplishments, but know that our work in the neighborhood will continue, to further improve the quality of life for the South End residents,” said Mayor Gerald D. Jennings. “I look forward to continuing to work with the SEAC on their revitalization efforts in the South End.”
In addition to residential development, the historic Howe Library branch of the Albany Public library is currently undergoing significant renovations which when completed, will result in more than 12,000 square feet of new space, handicap accessibility, and the restoration of historic features including the 1928 library’s legendary fireplace.
Workforce and business development were identified as important elements of the plan, and progress has been made on these fronts as well. Thanks to Community Development Block Grant-Recovery funding from the City of Albany, 10 South End residents will participate in an intensive work-skills training program. This program will teach construction skills related directly to projects in the neighborhood, and will eventually lead to full-time employment.
“It is wonderful to see the progress that has been made in the South End over the last few years,” said Hon. Carolyn McLaughlin, Common Council President who recently represented Ward 2. “I am proud of the work that has been done, and even more encouraged by the exciting things that are going to come to this vibrant city neighborhood.”
Looking forward, several projects are in the pipe line that will continue neighborhood revitalization. In December 2009, the Albany Housing Authority was awarded $2.4 million in funds for a combination of new construction and rehabilitation of existing buildings that will provide 43 units for low and very low income families in Phase II of the South End Revitalization Project.
“These accomplishments would not have been possible without the leadership and dedication of the people of the South End who share a vision for a brighter future and a passion for the neighborhood,” said Mike Yevoli, Commissioner of Development and Planning.
About the SEAC: The SEAC is the implementation committee for the South End. It is an active committee that works on the neighborhood improvement projects for the South End neighborhood. The SEAC meets regularly to coordinate revitalization projects in the South End and includes representatives from the City, private investors, businesses, and residents.
The Revitalization of the South End: Progress Report: 2007-2009