For Immediate Release 
Contact: Elizabeth Griffin 
Phone (518) 465-0876
 

ALBANY, NY – Wednesday, September 10, 2003 – Historic Albany Foundation is issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) seeking proposals for the renovation and restoration of two abandoned properties in Albany’s Center Square neighborhood. 

The buildings are located at 174 and 176 Jay Street, between Lark and Dove Streets. These downtown row houses are approximately 160 years old, and have been vacant for ten years. As part of Historic Albany Foundation’s Vacant Buildings Initiative, the Foundation intends to become an “owner of last resort” to facilitate the transfer of title.

“We’re looking for immediate proposals to stabilize two row houses with substantial masonry issues and roof deterioration before cold weather sets in. The proposal should demonstrate an understanding of proper preservation practices, as well as a specific construction plan and details of financial sources,” said Elizabeth Griffin, Executive Director of the Foundation. “The sale will be awarded to the best and most sound overall proposal with a quick implementation timeline, and will not necessarily be based on the highest offer.” 

The Foundation has worked with the Center Square Association and the City of Albany Department of Public Safety to establish additional criteria to preserve the neighborhood’s quality of life. Preference will be given to – but not limited to – those proposals which are designed for owner occupancy. 

Proposals can be made for one or both buildings. No proposals that call for a use variance over the existing zoning status (R-2) of the two buildings will be considered. The successful applicant will pay all closing and other legal fees incurred by both the buyer and seller in full.

“This marks a novel approach in the continuing partnership between the County, Historic Albany Foundation and our neighborhood associations,” said County Executive Michael Breslin. “By matching suitable buyers with these structures that have not sold at auction, we will benefit not only the neighborhood and the home buyer, but all the taxpayers of Albany County as well.”

Photographs showing the condition of the buildings are posted on the Foundation’s web site at www.historic-albany.org. Applicants are urged to review the full requirements of the RFP and photographs carefully prior to forwarding a proposal. 

All proposals must be received by Historic Albany Foundation no later than 12:00 noon on Monday, September 29th, 2003. For more information, please contact Susan Olsen at Historic Albany Foundation at 518-465-0876.