The mission of the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District is to restore, promote and maintain the character and viability of downtown Albany and improve the quality of life and overall image for those who live in, work in, and visit the Capital City.

Core Services

Advocacy

Often behind the scenes, the BID constantly works on behalf of property owners and merchants (and potential new ones) to create an environment favorable in terms of cleanliness, planning issues, police safety, and much more. We hold relationships with City, County and State departments advocating through red tape to ensure the progress of a holistic Downtown.

Beautification

From hanging flower baskets, to decorative sidewalk planters, to the annual holiday light display, the BID purchases, installs and maintains a variety of streetscape enhancements for downtown Albany's streets and public spaces, cultivating a safe and attractive environment for businesses, workers, neighbors, and visitors.

Place Making

Formerly titled Sculpture in the Streets, this program utilizes visual design strategies, public art exhibits, and interactive installations to activate public spaces throughout Downtown.

Safety

In addition to the BID’s collaborative partnership with the Albany Police Department’s Community Outreach Program to enhance downtown, beat cops are assigned to the Downtown business center Monday through Saturday throughout the day and evening.

Marketing & Communications

Working hand-in-hand with over 300 businesses, large and small, the BID develops and manages a multitude of marketing and communications channels promoting the goods and services of our Stakeholders, including the Downtown Digest Newsletter, e-newsletters, ribbon cutting ceremonies, public relations efforts, social media marketing, welcome kits, and of course, the BID’s website, which is a resource for businesses, organizations, property managers, Downtown residents, visitors, and workers alike. We also provide one-on-one support for our stakeholders.

Clean Team

On the street day in and day out, the Clean Team Ambassadors average over 5,000 hours a year addressing clean and safe issues throughout the district. Their daily tasks include keeping sidewalks clean and free from litter with broom and pan as well as clearing the sidewalks and crosswalks from snow and ice. Working above and beyond, the Clean Team also works closely with the Department of General Services (DGS) on trash and recycling removal, lighting issues, sidewalk and street infrastructure, greenery, traffic, large event clean-up and safety concerns. Additionally, the Clean Team is more than happy to provide visitors with directions or recommend venues, attractions or events.

Special Events

Strategic in nature, the Downtown Albany BID offers special events as a platform for the public to engage with Downtown and its businesses in exciting and memorable ways. The BID organizes and hosts recurring events series focused on providing community-focused recreation and activities, including weekly, free outdoor yoga classes and summer concerts, creative scavenger hunts, and other promotional programs. Signature special events include Hounds of Halloween, The Hot Chocolate Stroll & Holiday Market, and the Annual Meeting. The BID also partners with other organizers to support the growth of key events in the District, and encourage participation from merchants, and the public: the Albany County Farmers Market, PearlPalooza, and The St. Patrick’s Day Parade to name a few.

Business Attraction

The Downtown Albany BID provides comprehensive information for those looking to invest in Downtown. Learn more about the benefits of commercial, retail and residential investment in downtown Albany and connect the dots to information on Downtown’s unique attributes, accessibility, quality of life, financing options, market data and more. Even better, contact us to discuss your next project. We’ll even set up a tour of Downtown and introduce you to other successful businesses in the area.

Staff
Board
Georgette Steffens headshot

GEORGETTE STEFFENS

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
518.465.2143 X115

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Georgette Steffens was appointed Executive Director in September 2009. Prior to joining the BID, Georgette was the Director of Operations of Triad Consulting Group, Inc. of Cambridge Massachusetts, a consulting group which specializes in communications and negotiation to assist organizations in building capacity to manage difficult conversations and critical relationships within their work environment.   Ms. Steffens worked for the City of Albany, serving as Director of the Albany HomeStore.  Additionally, she held positions as Economic Developer for the City of Albany in the Department of Planning and Development, where her main focus was downtown development and the City's riverfront, and Program Coordinator for the Center for Economic Growth.

 

Ms. Steffens serves as the Chairperson of the Albany Port District Commission and is a Board Member of the New York State Urban Council.  She holds a BA from Johnson State College in Vermont.

 

 

 

 

Don Wilson headshot

DON WILSON

OPERATIONS MANAGER
518.465.2143 X112

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Don joined the BID in January 2010. As operations manager, Don is responsible for the development, administration, and implementation of programs that enhance the quality of life in downtown Albany. One of Don’s largest, permanent projects to date has been the completion of the new Olde English Downtown Dog Park. Don acts as a liaison for the Albany Police and other City Departments to ensure code compliance and safety within the District. In addition to overseeing the day-to-day operations of the contracted Clean Team Ambassadors, the group who helps keep sidewalks clear of litter, snow and ice, he also works closely with the Department of General Services in order to continually improve visual appeal and infrastructure throughout the District while responding to the needs of Stakeholders.

 

In his previous position, Don was the General Manager at The Mailworks, a direct mail solutions company based in Albany, NY. During his tenure at The Mailworks, Don honed his skills in managing profitable operations, which was highlighted by an effective combination of customer service and sales training with new market development, operations, and business analysis. Prior to The Mailworks, Don served as General Manager for Empire Brewing Company in Syracuse, NY before relocating to the Capital Region. His demonstrable skill of working and negotiating with businesses and consumers alike allows Don to have an immediate impact at the BID. Don holds a BS in Criminal Justice from the State University College at Brockport.

Rebecca Hughes headshot

REBECCA HUGHES

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
518.465.2143 X117

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Rebecca re-joined the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District team in September 2018. As Marketing & Communications Manager, she handles social media, print and digital newsletters, ribbon cuttings, and ongoing marketing and communications projects for the BID, all with the objective of featuring Downtown as a great place to work, live, and play. Rebecca works with each team member to develop and implement campaigns highlighting the BID's wide variety of Stakeholders, events, hidden gems and ongoing attractions. Her passion lies in anything animal related - so don't be surprised if she approaches you to take a picture of your dog (all in the name of promoting Downtown, of course).


 
Rebecca's previous roles have included working as a journalist, editor, community engagement editor, and marketing campaign strategist. When she's not at the BID, Rebecca can be found reading, re-watching her favorite sitcoms, and playing with her dog Groot (who's allergic to people - yes, really).

Jevan Dollard headshot

JEVAN DOLLARD

SPECIAL EVENTS MANAGER
518.465.2143 X111

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Jevan joined the BID in August 2022. As Special Events Manager, Jevan is responsible for the fundraising, implementation, and management of the BID’s signature events. He is also tasked with designing new event concepts and projects that improve the quality of life in Downtown while showcasing the District’s attributes. Jevan’s foremost objective is to highlight downtown Albany as a destination, by creating exciting, memorable experiences for all to enjoy. Jevan works collaboratively with many local government offices, arts and tourism organizations, cultural venues, and businesses to achieve the most successful outcome for all events in Downtown. Jevan holds a B.A. in Communications from the University at Albany, SUNY.

 

His previous experience includes five years working with Albany’s Lark Street BID, where he served as Co-Executive Director, and was responsible for the planning and execution of signature events such as LarkFest and Art On Lark, and the introduction of successful events including the Chili Chowder Stroll and Lark Street Restaurant Week.

 

During his free time, you’ll find Jevan attending a concert, cooking, cycling, or enjoying a delicious coffee pour-over.

Mai Huynh smiles, facing camera and is shown from abdomen up standing on street

MAI HUYNH

MARKETING & SPECIAL EVENTS COORDINATOR
518.465.2143 X116

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Mai started at the BID in January 2024. Joining the team as a Marketing & Special Events Coordinator, she supports the managers in events planning, social media content management, and many other cool projects. Living in Downtown Albany, Mai has seen how the neighborhood has transformed over time, thanks to the hard work of the BID in supporting the local businesses and enhancing community‘s quality of life through well-thought-out events and programs. 

Having earned a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing in 2023, Mai perceives her involvement with the BID as a unique opportunity to forge connections with local residents. She enjoys the prospect of being behind the scenes, contributing to the all-round initiatives undertaken by the BID to ensure the vibrancy and diversity of Capital City.

When she’s not crushing it at work, you’ll catch her unwinding with her favorite TV shows, diving into crime podcasts (yes, you read that right), and whipping up some sweet treats.

Christine Gonzalez Stanton, shown from abdomen up, sits on outdoor steps smiling and facing camera.

CHRISTINE GONZALEZ STANTON

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
518.465.2143 X110

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In January 2024, Christine became the Executive Assistant at BID, contributing to the seamless day-to-day operations and ensuring the office functions smoothly. Her career spans over 20+ years in operations and business management working in the fields of higher education, arts, and non-profit community organizations. She is a member of the National Association of Non-Profit Organizations and Executives and has received numerous awards throughout her career for her commitment to students and the community.

Prior to joining Downtown Albany BID, Christine held positions at the Capital Region Vegan Network, Bard College, and a program manager working for world-renowned glass artist, Dale Chihuly, in Seattle, WA. She earned her BA degree in Sociology from Ohio State University. In her off time, she is an outdoor enthusiast extraordinaire, finds her zen in the heart of nature, blending the perfect mix of yoga, meditation, and local hiking. In the realm of high school glory, Christine proudly claims her fame as the reigning champion of the Track & Field High Jump – yes, she holds the record, and the bar is set high, both literally and metaphorically. 

Board of Directors


 

Headshot of Elizabeth Young Jojo

PRESIDENT

 

ELIZABETH YOUNG JOJO

Redburn Development Partners

 

Headshot of Lisa Reddy Farrell

VICE-PRESIDENT

 

LISA REDDY FARRELL

Omni Development Company, Inc.

 

Kenneth Countermine headshot

TREASURER

 

KENNETH COUNTERMINE

Community Bank

Headshot of Neil McGreevy

SECRETARY

 

NEIL MCGREEVY

McGreevy ProLab & ProPress

 

 

Board Members


 

Headshot of Riley Ackley

RILEY ACKLEY

Class B Director

Downtown Resident

Leola Edelin headshot

LEOLA EDELIN

Class A Director

Renaissance Albany

Headshot of Leyla Kiosse

LEYLA KIOSSE

Class B Director

The Yard Hatchet House & Bar

Lena Hart headshot

LENA HART

Class A Director

Precision Fitness

Mohamed Hemmid headshot

MOHAMED HEMMID

Class A Director

Hampton Inn & Suites - Albany-Downtown

Benn MacDonald headshot

BENN MACDONALD

Class A Director

Far Shot Albany

Headshot of Angelo Maddox

ANGELO MADDOX

Class B Director

Fresh & Fly Clothing

Frank O'Connor III headshot

FRANK O'CONNOR III

Class A Director

Gleason, Dunn, Walsh & O'Shea

Headshot of Dan McCoy

HON. DANIEL P. MCCOY

Class D Director

Albany County Executive

Lucas Rogers headshot

LUCAS ROGERS

Class D Director

Albany County

Darius Shahinfar headshot

HON. DARIUS SHAHINFAR

Class C Director

Treasurer, City of Albany

Kathy Sheehan headshot

HON. KATHY M. SHEEHAN

Class C Director

Mayor, City of Albany

Joshua Wainman headshot

JOSHUA WAINMAN

Class A Director

Wainschaf Associates

Frank Zeoli headshot

FRANK ZEOLI

Class C Director

City of Albany, DGS

ANNUAL REPORTS & FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2022 Annual Report | 2022 Financial Statement

Downtown BID boundary map

 

DOWNTOWN ALBANY BID BOUNDARIES

Map of the BID's Service Area

The Downtown Albany Business Improvement District (BID) represents an area of approximately 50 square blocks bounded on the north by Clinton Avenue, on the south by Madison Avenue, on the east by Broadway and on the west by Eagle Street. Membership in the Downtown Albany BID is defined by specific address.

 

A map of the BID boundaries may be downloaded using the link below (boundary lines indicate both sides of the street.). If you have any questions regarding the District Boundaries, please contact the BID at 518.465.2143.

 

Download the BID boundary map

 

Committees

Clean & Safe Committee

The Clean and Safe Committee guides departmental actions that include increasing lighting, greening Downtown and improving gateways and connective corridors. The Committee meets as needed to identify priorities regarding safety, cleanliness, and beautification as it relates to the Downtown Albany BID’s mission.

Special Events Committee

The Special Events Committee is responsible for overseeing, evaluating, and enhancing the BID’s new and existing event programming. The Committee meets as needed to evaluate event outcomes and suggest improvements, as well as hear ideas from committee members, staff, and Stakeholders for new events that support the Downtown Albany BID’s overall mission. 

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee guides the BID’s retention and recruitment activities for office and retail/retail related businesses. They work to attract additional development, while supporting existing investment. The Committee meets 4-6 times per year.

Marketing Committee

The Marketing Committee guides departmental actions that include ongoing marketing and communication efforts, and initiatives indicated in the Downtown Albany BID's Strategic Plan. The Committee meets as needed to evaluate and enhance staff efforts in support of our organization's mission.

Interested in learning more about these committees?

CONTACT: 

Downtown Albany BID
518.465.2143
hello@downtownalbany.org

Internship
Volunteer

INTERNSHIP PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Downtown Albany BID's intern program provides an excellent opportunity for emerging business leaders to acquire professional skills and connections. Interns are vital in the successful coordination and implementation of important programs and initiatives, and each is given at least one major project to manage during their BID tenure.

Internships are available during the fall, spring and summer. While most interns are junior or senior level in college, on occasion the BID will consider exceptional college sophomore students as potential candidates. As projects arise, we also look for graduate students with specific skill sets.

 

General Requirements

  • Articulate, organized, enthusiastic
  • Must be able to work in a team environment
  • Willingness to take initiative and work independently when necessary
  • Excellent communication, writing and computer skills
  • Semester long internship - work shifts must be a minimum of four hours
  • Junior/senior undergraduates or graduate students
  • Travel through the BID districts & make personal contact with business owners

Application

  • Cover letter explaining why you are seeking an internship with the BID
  • Resume

Cover letter and resume may be sent to: hello@downtownalbany.org

Dedicated volunteers are essential to the success of the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District’s (BID) goals and initiatives.


Interested in assisting in our next big event? Contact Jevan Dollard | 518.465.2143 x111 to be connected with our Volunteer Coordinator.