Statement from Executive Director Georgette Steffens regarding the Liberty Park Proposal

Georgette Steffens, Executive Director of the Downtown Albany BID, said:

"Today’s announcement marks an exciting step toward a new future for downtown Albany. The proposed Liberty Park development would be transformational, bringing much-needed housing, commercial, and retail space to the city while unlocking the tremendous potential of this important site. We look forward to working with Galesi Group and Columbia Development to support their plans for Liberty Park.

The proposals from Jankow Companies, Redburn Development Partners, Gordon Development, and JJ Property Holdings NY, LLC, would further strengthen this investment by adding over 270 new residential units to Downtown. Growing our residential population is essential to creating the critical mass of residents, activity, and foot traffic that will support our small businesses and help Downtown continue to thrive.

The $20 million allocated for streetscape improvements and the $1 million Small Business Development Fund for façade and retail enhancements will improve our historic Downtown, making it an even more inviting, walkable, and welcoming environment.

It is also wonderful to see Historic Albany Foundation included in this investment, with funding to complete the historic restoration of the Van Ostrande-Radliff House. Preserving our past while looking to our future is paramount to Downtown's success.

These investments would not be possible without Governor Kathy Hochul’s intentional prioritization of our capital city and the $200 million Championing Albany’s Potential (CAP) strategic investment. The impact will benefit downtown Albany as a whole, the City of Albany, and the entire Capital Region for years to come.

We thank Governor Hochul, Empire State Development, Capitalize Albany Corporation, and the City of Albany for their coordinated efforts and shared commitment to bringing this transformative project to fruition."