Major Developments in Albany: Demolition of Central Warehouse Set to Begin!

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News Summary

The long-abandoned Central Warehouse in Albany is set for demolition, with plans for redevelopment into a community green space.

Major Developments in Albany: Demolition of Central Warehouse Set to Begin!

The landscape of Albany is about to change in a significant way as the Advance Albany County Alliance Board of Directors gears up for the much-anticipated demolition of the long-abandoned Central Warehouse. This milestone project has stirred excitement and concern among local residents, primarily because it aims to tackle not just the physical structure, but also the hazardous materials contained within—most notably, asbestos.

Negotiations Underway: Who’s In Charge?

As part of this ambitious demolition plan, contract negotiations are currently taking place with Gramercy Group, Inc. and LiRo-Hill, firms chosen for their expertise in handling complex demolition projects. The estimated cost for the demolition alone exceeds a staggering $14 million. Interestingly, both New York State and Albany County have successfully garnered over $13 million in funding to help cover these costs, highlighting a strong partnership between local and state officials dedicated to revitalizing the area.

A Costly Acquisition

The Advance Albany County Alliance made headlines earlier this year when it acquired the Central Warehouse property for a mere $50,000 as part of a larger plan for redevelopment. The previous owners, CW Skyway LLC, had aspirations of transforming the dilapidated structure but failed to act, leading to significant deterioration of the building.

Safety First: The Plan for Demolition

Residents should know that the planned demolition will not employ an implosion method—this choice aims to reduce noise and debris fallout. For those curious onlookers wanting a view of the action, the Albany Skyway offers a safe vantage point. Remaining at a distance is crucial; any attempts to get too close could lead to both legal repercussions and personal injuries.

The State of the Building: A Risky Investment

Since roughly 1990, the Central Warehouse has sat abandoned, posing risks to the local community. In the summer of 2022, the City of Albany took a stand and threatened legal action against the previous owners in response to the building’s alarming state of disrepair. Parts of the building’s façade had even crumbled onto the nearby Amtrak rail line, creating safety hazards for commuters. In response, the city previously covered costs for necessary repairs and preventative measures to secure the site.

Protective Measures in Place

As the countdown to demolition begins, the Central Warehouse remains standing, albeit covered with a protective layer designed to prevent any debris from falling. Addressing the various hazardous materials, which includes asbestos abatement, will be among the initial tasks once demolition commences, likely set for spring or summer of this year.

Future of the Land: A Green Space Awaits

Once the structure is brought down, the vision for the area is set to change markedly. County Executive Dan McCoy has confirmed plans to transform the now-vacant plot into a public space, offering much-needed green space for the community. As part of the ongoing efforts, local officials are expected to announce the contractor selected for the demolition soon, promising transparency and accountability throughout the process.

A Historic Landmark on the Brink

Originally constructed in 1927, the Central Warehouse has long served as a landmark in Albany. Now, after decades of neglect, this project represents not just the opportunity to clean up an eyesore, but to pave the way for future development that serves the community better. As preparations move forward, anticipation builds, signaling a new chapter for Albany.