(ALBANY, NY -- May 13, 2000) – As part of the nationwide celebration of the 29th annual National Historic Preservation Week, May 14-20, 2000, a number of concerned residents are asking their neighbors to take the "Preservation Pledge for the Third Millennium."

"Taking America's Past into the Future is the theme of the week-long celebration sponsored by the National Trust for Historic Preservation," said Paul Bray, President of the Albany Roundtable. "This theme celebrates the link between past and future, challenging us to think today about the legacy we'll leave for tomorrow. With the Preservation Pledge, we're seeking to demonstrate that there is a strong desire among local residents to promote and protect our irreplaceable historic treasures."

Bray will receive the Lifetime Conservation Achievement Award from the New York Parks and Conservation Association on Monday, May 15.

According to Elizabeth Griffin, Executive Director of Historic Albany Foundation, the Pledge is one way to dispel the notion that historic preservation is a somewhat elitist cause. "From Lincoln Park Pool to the former School 10 on Central Avenue, we're hearing from city residents who would never have described themselves as 'preservationists.' The Pledge gives a unified voice to supporters of the many faces of preservation."

The Preservation Pledge recognizes Albany as a "great American historic city, stretching from the pre-colonial settlements along the Hudson River to the ancient Pine Barrens of the Albany Pine Bush." Pledge signers promise to lend their support to the promotion of city living; protection of the city's green space and parks; preservation of historic buildings; conservation of the Pine Bush and stewardship of archaeological sites. In addition, the Pledge promises support for environmentally sensitive river front development; public transit and pedestrian and bicycle activity; and Albany's arts organizations.

Carol Wallace, who represents the city's First Ward on the Albany Common Council, has reached out to organizations such as Save the Pine Bush, the Washington Park Conservancy, and the Council of Albany Neighborhood Associations (CANA), to promote the Preservation Pledge. "The Pledge is really an exercise to get people to think about their city and about their neighborhoods. Preservation of our natural and cultural resources can make this an even more livable, fascinating urban environment. With good advertising, Albany could become a magnet for new investments and new residents -- not to mention tourist dollars galore."

Wallace believes the residents and leaders of Albany are facing a critical decision. "If enough people care and speak out, we can prosper as an historic city with a bright vision for the future. I'm hoping that Preservation Week 2000 will find us well on our way to 2,000 signatures on the Preservation Pledge."

The Preservation Pledge is available online at the Historic Albany Foundation web site, and at the HAF Office at 89 Lexington Avenue in Albany. To receive a copy of the pledge in the mail or by fax, call Colleen Ryan at 462-1900.