tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8516855364794771072024-02-19T09:41:41.228-05:00Eagle Hill Neighbors UnitedThis is a community forum for the residents of Cambridge, Oxford, Clarendon and Tudor Roads in Albany, New York.Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.comBlogger75125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-85959424415651892792010-10-26T13:22:00.000-04:002010-10-26T13:22:59.995-04:00UAlbany drops sewer hookup plan<div class="MsoNormal">By JORDAN CARLEO-EVANGELIST Staff Writer<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">Published: 12:00 a.m., Tuesday, October 26, 2010<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><br />
</o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><a href="http://www.timesunion.com/local/article/UAlbany-drops-sewer-hookup-plan-723002.php">Direct Link</a> </o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><br />
</o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">ALBANY -- As construction begins at the site of the University at Albany's new 500-bed dormitory, school officials have given up on a controversial plan to connect the two five-story buildings' sewer system to Albany's aging infrastructure and a pump station along the Krumkill Creek.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">UAlbany originally planned to link the new apartment-style dorm to older sewer lines along Western Avenue that lead to the Woodville pump station.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">But that plan sparked concerns that the added volume might increase bacteria spilling into the Krumkill during heavy storms, when the pump station is allowed to overflow a certain amount into the Hudson River tributary according to an agreement with the state Department of Environmental Conservation.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The plan also triggered worries that the added volume could exacerbate sewer backups in homes downstream in the city -- a problem DEC has ordered the city to remedy.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Karl Luntta, a UAlbany spokesman, confirmed that the university has decided not to connect to the city's Western Avenue sewers but said UAlbany still believes its plan, which centered on making repairs to the sewer pipes to mitigate the impact of the new volume, would have succeeded.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">"We assessed our options," Luntta said. "Certainly there were questions that were being asked, and we do believe that we were in the right place."<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The two most likely alternatives are connecting to the town of Guilderland's sewer system, also along Western Avenue, or pumping the sewage north directly to Albany's newer Patroon Creek sewer along Washington Avenue -- both of which would be more costly for UAlbany to maintain.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Luntta said the university hasn't decided which it favors.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Guilderland Supervisor Ken Runion said the town has discussed the possibility of connection with UAlbany -- including an estimated $338,000 mitigation fee the school would have to pay the town to make up for the increased burden on the system.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The fight over the sewer system was the last battle in neighbors' efforts to scuttle the dorm project amid fears it would also cause surface flooding, traffic, noise and other problems on Tudor Road, which is adjacent to the construction site on the campus' southeastern corner near the Boor Sculpture Studio.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">To allay some of those fears, UAlbany has amended its plans for the $60 million project, funding permitting, to include rooftop vegetation in parts of the complex, as well as rain gardens and the strategic use of permeable pavement in the new 350-space parking lot -- all to reduce the amount of water flowing off the site and into storm sewers.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Neighbors also protested clearing of the land -- more than a dozen wooded acres, including nearly 3.5 acres of the Harriman State Office Campus.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">That work has already begun. This fall, workers will focus on building a berm to shield neighbors from the two five-story buildings and preparations to move the campus ring road, University Drive, some 450 feet east of its current location.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The dorm is expected to open in August 2012.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Reach Jordan Carleo-Evangelist at 454-5445 or jcarleo-evangelist@timesunion.com.</div>Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-39510553053098033212010-06-14T08:08:00.000-04:002010-06-14T08:08:31.287-04:00Found Cat!Found:<br />
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Grey, female cat with yellow eyes<br />
Found on Cambridge Road off Western Avenue on 6/13/10<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq-YLBmWCvUWrXtiIWpZhIexXDQ0hweAu2RtSUEEjjUP7eVFlSDLhghzaR84e-R0IG4zAT8I8uIWMWbGwSAh2ON5TxYi0fZkcFH1_sjZwnb-xUOx97gicsPijpxRMrq5WokMVfWn0DEYws/s1600/lost+cat+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq-YLBmWCvUWrXtiIWpZhIexXDQ0hweAu2RtSUEEjjUP7eVFlSDLhghzaR84e-R0IG4zAT8I8uIWMWbGwSAh2ON5TxYi0fZkcFH1_sjZwnb-xUOx97gicsPijpxRMrq5WokMVfWn0DEYws/s320/lost+cat+1.jpg" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd1R30znUCti3EySJK9_nIRhpAZBRZa8fixEDaMpu17kVC3BcwN9Vk789geg4EsLQvgYOOeufMWeXbMXWt0mMyWlD0EF85MbHu9HZte8fFgAzKCgit0oGD2BAIlP3VfrQFOfbKDCGsGOtk/s1600/Lost+Cat+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd1R30znUCti3EySJK9_nIRhpAZBRZa8fixEDaMpu17kVC3BcwN9Vk789geg4EsLQvgYOOeufMWeXbMXWt0mMyWlD0EF85MbHu9HZte8fFgAzKCgit0oGD2BAIlP3VfrQFOfbKDCGsGOtk/s320/Lost+Cat+2.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhStGVJYsCSvdAU6F8oZk7Tjb4QsbwcvTyZsJAxhVgwnGWdaESP-T1oOKkQAJY0OFU6OwIsQiHQp2nT56Fg7OsK-u-8vN96Cj1mi1mxR-3pDBNlKsqxJ0u9tDch5oVehlckMA0TUr1Fq22f/s1600/Lost+Cat+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhStGVJYsCSvdAU6F8oZk7Tjb4QsbwcvTyZsJAxhVgwnGWdaESP-T1oOKkQAJY0OFU6OwIsQiHQp2nT56Fg7OsK-u-8vN96Cj1mi1mxR-3pDBNlKsqxJ0u9tDch5oVehlckMA0TUr1Fq22f/s320/Lost+Cat+3.jpg" /></a><br />
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She is having trouble walking<br />
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Taken to Hudson-Mohawk Humane Society<br />
Phone:(518)434-8128<br />
Fax: (518) 434-0217<br />
Email: information@mohawkhumane.org<br />
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Take exit 6 off I-787<br />
Turn right (north) on Broadway (Route 32)<br />
Go approx. 1/2 mile<br />
Before the first light, make right on Oakland Ave.<br />
Take Oakland to its endSteven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-80212125060985529662010-06-14T08:00:00.000-04:002010-06-14T08:00:39.283-04:00What are community concerns?I received an e-mail from a neighbor that they had found a lost and possibly injured cat, and asked if I would put a notice on this blog.<br />
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As you can tell from the postings to date, I have been writing about the actions of our very large neighbors - UAlbany and and the Harriman Office Campus. The effects of their actions directly affect the quiet enjoyment of our homes and neighborhood. Describing their actions has also been important, because UAlbany and the Harriman take years in doing anything. It is difficult to keep track of where we stand, and what we can do at an appropriate time. That was my intent for this blog.<br />
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The problem is that the message conveyed by making some postings is that you only hear about the big issues - issues that do not quickly go away and where the gains are ambiguous. I may be able to help in this situation. But, we shouldn't defined just by our opposition to the University, but how we care for each other.<br />
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So, as small as it seems, here is a notice about a lost cat. It is a concern for a neighbor, and it's a concern for me as a cat owner. If you have any concerns about everyday life in our part of Albany, pass them on. Let me hear about what is important to you.<br />
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Steve SokalSteven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-55771743517595686312010-06-03T08:27:00.000-04:002010-06-03T08:27:39.700-04:00Caucus Talkusfrom Albany Citizen One by albanycitizenone<br />
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<b>Just a few things on the agenda...not much of interest so far. There is an issue with the SUNY sewer issue...you know, where the community wants to route the wastewater in a way that SUNY doesn't want to route it. Seems the SUNY secret system involves they contacting all the common council members individually for meetings instead of working in the light of day. Wonder if they are registered with New York Public Integrity.<br />
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Seems that MOB nipped that in the bud. They will be invited to an open meeting.<br />
</b><br />
If you're following me on Twitter, you already know that Anton has introduced legislation stating that the Common Council endorses Andrew Cuomo's New NY Plan. uh, hum. Sometimes I deserve a medal for holding back the giggles. The council members haven't even seen the 250 page plan...but he asks them to go on record in support of it...which, essentially, this would indicated that the council endorses Cuomo for Governor...to committee it goes.<br />
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The pesticides issue is up and it appears they are appointing an ad hoc committee to review the entire committee. Mr. Conti recommends that Bob Cross and Bill Bruce be involved since they were involved in the original legislation. Ms. McLaughlin is recommeding a 60 day turn around on this task force. Ms. Golby has interest in being on the committee...and MOB volunteers.<br />
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Mr. Konev has also introed legislation to tell Yellow Cab how to run their company...ya know, like most-favored drivers get better routes...how many people are fit into a cab. Seems that the college students like to share cabs as they all pay just $3. Well, from the old lady over here...count me out of that enjoyment equation. I've been in cabs thinking a second rider would be a split....nope...the cabbie charged me and the second rider the same fee...$25 to go to the same place.<br />
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Okay, the talkus has moved back into the pesticide realm with Rozy saying the info never got to the department. I'm betting the ad hoc committee will be looking at that communication gap. (Well, I would hope.) Mr. Conti says that the law committee should have some role in ensuring that the legislation gets to the director of the department.<br />
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Seems that Mr. Freeman wants a report on the city's employees...race, salary, gender, residency....seems there's no such report. Mr. Freeman has seen the information but says that Ms. Sheehan (that's who he says...I'm not sure that's right) will not release the information until he gets a "permission slip" from the leaders of the common council.<br />
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So, now the report exists...according to Mr. Freeman but he can't get the report. Ms. McLaughlin says she just needs to talk to Ms. Sheehan to release. Seems there's still no Director of Administration yet either. Hmmm....<br />
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Hands in the air. Mr. Bailey wants to know if there is anyway to get information prior to the night that a decision must be made. (He's talking about the Planning Department...and the CDBG funding.) Wonder of wonders...Ms. McLaughlin says that, if we invite the department heads to all the meetings...ya know, and develop relationships, you'll have an easier time getting information proactively.Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-27846109422500741342010-06-01T14:49:00.000-04:002010-06-01T14:49:32.429-04:00UAlbany Response to Albany Common Council on Water IssuesHere is a May 11, 2010 letter from Steve Beditz, UAlbany Interim Vice President to the Honorable Michael O'Brien on water issues.<br />
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<a title="View May 11 Letter to Michael OBrien From Steve Beditz UAlbany on Scribd" href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/32337102/May-11-Letter-to-Michael-OBrien-From-Steve-Beditz-UAlbany" style="margin: 12px auto 6px auto; font-family: Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 14px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; -x-system-font: none; display: block; text-decoration: underline;">May 11 Letter to Michael OBrien From Steve Beditz UAlbany</a> <object id="doc_801032862349536" name="doc_801032862349536" height="500" width="100%" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://d1.scribdassets.com/ScribdViewer.swf" style="outline:none;" rel="media:document" resource="http://d1.scribdassets.com/ScribdViewer.swf?document_id=32337102&access_key=key-zctun0whnugpt4nk66e&page=1&viewMode=list" xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/searchmonkey/media/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/terms/" > <param name="movie" value="http://d1.scribdassets.com/ScribdViewer.swf"><param name="wmode" value="opaque"><param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><param name="FlashVars" value="document_id=32337102&access_key=key-zctun0whnugpt4nk66e&page=1&viewMode=list"><embed id="doc_801032862349536" name="doc_801032862349536" src="http://d1.scribdassets.com/ScribdViewer.swf?document_id=32337102&access_key=key-zctun0whnugpt4nk66e&page=1&viewMode=list" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="500" width="100%" wmode="opaque" bgcolor="#ffffff"></embed> </object> <br />
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The letter included two attachments from UAlbany consultants.<br />
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<a title="View Storm Water Management Methodology on Scribd" href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/32337108/Storm-Water-Management-Methodology" style="margin: 12px auto 6px auto; font-family: Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 14px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; -x-system-font: none; display: block; text-decoration: underline;">Storm Water Management Methodology</a> <object id="doc_801397405453452" name="doc_801397405453452" height="500" width="100%" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://d1.scribdassets.com/ScribdViewer.swf" style="outline:none;" rel="media:document" resource="http://d1.scribdassets.com/ScribdViewer.swf?document_id=32337108&access_key=key-l79t0n18p1prtrssck0&page=1&viewMode=list" xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/searchmonkey/media/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/terms/" > <param name="movie" value="http://d1.scribdassets.com/ScribdViewer.swf"><param name="wmode" value="opaque"><param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><param name="FlashVars" value="document_id=32337108&access_key=key-l79t0n18p1prtrssck0&page=1&viewMode=list"><embed id="doc_801397405453452" name="doc_801397405453452" src="http://d1.scribdassets.com/ScribdViewer.swf?document_id=32337108&access_key=key-l79t0n18p1prtrssck0&page=1&viewMode=list" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="500" width="100%" wmode="opaque" bgcolor="#ffffff"></embed> </object> <br />
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<a title="View CT Male Response to Common Council on Scribd" href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/32337105/CT-Male-Response-to-Common-Council" style="margin: 12px auto 6px auto; font-family: Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 14px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; -x-system-font: none; display: block; text-decoration: underline;">CT Male Response to Common Council</a> <object id="doc_910113601089669" name="doc_910113601089669" height="500" width="100%" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://d1.scribdassets.com/ScribdViewer.swf" style="outline:none;" rel="media:document" resource="http://d1.scribdassets.com/ScribdViewer.swf?document_id=32337105&access_key=key-1imxkhb3lw54hdt69n1s&page=1&viewMode=list" xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/searchmonkey/media/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/terms/" > <param name="movie" value="http://d1.scribdassets.com/ScribdViewer.swf"><param name="wmode" value="opaque"><param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><param name="FlashVars" value="document_id=32337105&access_key=key-1imxkhb3lw54hdt69n1s&page=1&viewMode=list"><embed id="doc_910113601089669" name="doc_910113601089669" src="http://d1.scribdassets.com/ScribdViewer.swf?document_id=32337105&access_key=key-1imxkhb3lw54hdt69n1s&page=1&viewMode=list" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="500" width="100%" wmode="opaque" bgcolor="#ffffff"></embed> </object> <br />
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Mr. O'Brien will be proposing a meeting with UAlbany at an upcoming Common Council meeting.Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-67724263220312003942010-05-25T15:06:00.001-04:002010-05-25T15:12:32.143-04:00Sewers the last front in UAlbany dorm battleBy JORDAN CARLEO-EVANGELIST, Staff writer<br />
Last updated: 11:46 a.m., Tuesday, May 25, 2010<br />
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ALBANY -- The University at Albany is pushing ahead with a 500-bed dorm next to Tudor Road and plans to start construction as soon as July despite opponents' lingering concerns that the project could overwhelm part of the city's already tapped-out sewer system.<br />
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Neighbors in the Eagle Hill section have fought the project on numerous fronts, airing fears about increased noise and light pollution as well as traffic and water runoff from what's currently about 12 wooded acres southeast of the Boor Sculpture Studio.<br />
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That fight, however, has been largely stymied by the fact that -- as a state entity -- UAlbany is exempt from the city's zoning and planning regulations.<br />
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The final battle, however, centers on how the two new five-story apartment buildings will connect to the city's sanitary sewer system -- the only aspect of the project over which local officials have any say. The $70 million project also involves moving the university's ring road about 450 feet further east to push the buildings from nearby houses.<br />
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UAlbany intends to send its sewage south, toward Western Avenue and the Woodville Pump Station along the Krumkill.<br />
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The pump station, however, is part of one of the older sections of Albany's leaky and -- in some cases -- crumbling combined sewer system, which carries storm water and sewage in the same pipes and overflows into the Hudson River and backs up into homes during severe storms.<br />
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Opponents of the project, including the chairman of the Common Council committee that oversees the sewer system, fear the increased volume could violate state Department of Environmental Conservation orders not to make the overflows or backups worse.<br />
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"They're content to just go ahead and do it and let us pick up the consequences," said Councilman Michael O'Brien, the committee chairman who represents the 12th Ward.<br />
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O'Brien wants guarantees that UAlbany, not the city, will be on the hook for any fines or penalties that result from their connection.<br />
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Even more, O'Brien wants the university to pay the added expense to pump the sewage up hill to the north toward Washington Avenue and the Patroon Creek sewer system, which is newer and carries sewer and storm water separately.<br />
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In an April letter, all 15 members of the council and Council President Carolyn McLaughlin called on the city's Water Board to reject any southern connection to the sewer system.<br />
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In response, university Interim Vice President for Finance and Business Stephen Beditz last week wrote O'Brien saying the council's understanding of the project is flawed. He said the university plans to repair sewer lines downstream that will reduce leaks and illegal connections equal to the amount of sewage the project would add.<br />
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That condition was recommended by the Water Board's outside engineer, Daniel Hershberg, who told the council he would still prefer that UAlbany pump its sewage north.<br />
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But, Hershberg cautioned the lawmakers, the Water Board has no power to force the university to do so -- or reject the application outright for a connection to the system -- so long as UAlbany meets conditions imposed by the board.<br />
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John Kosa, assistant commissioner of the city Department of Water and Water Supply, said the city would not require UAlbany to make repairs to the system if it would not be enough to keep the overflows and backups in check.<br />
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"We're not going to allow a connection ... unless we know we can do it without impacting the residents," Kosa said. "We're not going to make it worse. We're the ones that have to deal with it, too."<br />
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Fifteenth Ward Councilman Frank Commisso Jr., who represents some of the neighborhoods around the campus, said "it doesn't make sense" that the city can conclude that the northern option is preferable but that the law gives it no power to enforce its preference.<br />
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"It's just not night," Commisso said. "The unfortunate thing is that a lot of people are going to end up with flooding in their basements because of it."<br />
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Hershberg, however, notes that similar mitigation arrangements have been reached with Albany Medical Center and several new developments along New Scotland Avenue and said he thinks opponents of the dorm are just trying to use the city's Water Board as an 11th-hour roadblock.<br />
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"They're trying to have the Albany Water Board ... act as their agent to kill the project," he said.<br />
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UAlbany's request is pending before the board. No action will be taken until the board gets clearance from the health department, Kosa said.<br />
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Meanwhile, UAlbany is planning to begin construction in July. The dorms are scheduled to open in September 2011.<br />
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Jordan Carleo-Evangelist can be reached at 454-5445 or by e-mail at jcarleo-evangelist@timesunion.com.Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-67876347632556013482010-04-21T11:16:00.002-04:002010-04-21T11:23:38.631-04:00Common Council Letter to Albany Water Board and UAlbanyUAlbany had requested a connection to Albany's sewer lines as part of their Final Environmental Impact Statement. The connection would be to the Woodville Pump Station, which is a heavily used facility. The Krumkill receives not only stormwater runoff from our neighborhood, including the UAlbany Campus, but any overflows from the pump station.<br />
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These issues were taken up by Michael O'Brien with the General Services, Health and Environment Committee of Common Council. After conducting its investigation, a letter outlining the issues that the City has with the sewer connection was prepared. The Council members agreed with the findings and signed on.<br />
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Here is a letter sent to the Water Board and UAlbany concerning this request.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/30289120/Water-Board-Letter" style="-x-system-font: none; display: block; font-family: Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 12px auto 6px auto; text-decoration: underline;" title="View Water Board Letter on Scribd">Water Board Letter</a> <object data="http://d1.scribdassets.com/ScribdViewer.swf" height="600" id="doc_955476285416892" name="doc_955476285416892" style="outline: none;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="100%"> <param name="movie" value="http://d1.scribdassets.com/ScribdViewer.swf"><param name="wmode" value="opaque"><param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><param name="FlashVars" value="document_id=30289120&access_key=key-9eu0epgqk0ggg1davzg&page=1&viewMode=list"><embed id="doc_955476285416892" name="doc_955476285416892" src="http://d1.scribdassets.com/ScribdViewer.swf?document_id=30289120&access_key=key-9eu0epgqk0ggg1davzg&page=1&viewMode=list" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="600" width="100%" wmode="opaque" bgcolor="#ffffff"></embed> </object> <br />
<br />
The bottom line here is that the proposed construction and sewer connection, while lowest cost to UAlbany, would harm the City and its residents. Pass the message on!Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-73843604700411693492010-04-20T16:43:00.000-04:002010-04-20T16:43:01.650-04:00Harriman board talks continue with Columbia DevelopmentThe Business Review (Albany) - by Adam Sichko <br />
<br />
The board governing the state’s Harriman office campus in Albany, N.Y., has given a developer more land to work with in the initial stage of a campus overhaul.<br />
<br />
In November 2009, Columbia Development Cos. was awarded the rights to redevelop 140 of the 330 acres at the state-owned W. Averell Harriman State Office Campus. The remainder of the Harriman campus will continue to be used by state agencies that employ 7,300 people.<br />
<br />
At an April 19 meeting, the Harriman campus’ board voted to give Columbia access of up to 20 of the 140 acres for its first stage of development. Initially, state officials told The Business Review they had planned to give the company between 5 acres and 15 acres to work with.<br />
<br />
The state will lease the land to Columbia for about a year, giving the firm the chance to market the site to potential tenants. Terms of the lease are being negotiated.<br />
<br />
The intent is for Columbia to eventually buy the initial parcel, and the other acres to be developed, from the state.<br />
<br />
The board also voted that high-tech companies will be the only businesses allowed to locate in that parcel.<br />
<br />
The votes were taken after the board went behind closed doors to discuss ongoing contract talks with Columbia. The state and Columbia have met four times, most recently last week, said Peter Wohl, president of the Harriman Research and Technology Development Corp.<br />
<br />
To date, no memorandums of understanding (MOUs) have been agreed to, Wohl said.<br />
<br />
The parcel in question is located next to the state Department of Labor offices on the campus, near Washington Avenue.<br />
<br />
According to plans Columbia submitted to the state, a building of between 40,000 square feet and 60,000 square feet would be built once tenants have been secured.<br />
<br />
The state is currently going through a mandatory environmental site review process which will likely last for nine months to a year. Groundbreaking cannot begin until the review is complete.<br />
<br />
Throughout last decade, the state has pursued an ambitious plan to renovate the campus to attract high-tech companies and build retail shops and residential units. The initiative has stalled repeatedly amid changing state leadership, the recession, tight credit markets and the state’s own financial problems and budget deficits.<br />
<br />
The lack of a state budget is the latest hurdle facing the Harriman project. Without a budget, the Harriman board is unable to hire a development adviser or pay for an updated appraisal of the Harriman campus land—a key part to the ongoing negotiations with Columbia.<br />
<br />
The development adviser would be retained for two to three years, costing $250,000 in total. Wohl said he is “exploring different ways we can address this,” but he declined to discuss specifics before the board went into executive session.<br />
<br />
<a href="mailto://asichko@bizjournals.com">asichko@bizjournals.com</a> | 518-640-6818Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-27817825857099171622010-04-20T11:49:00.000-04:002010-04-20T11:49:06.851-04:00UAlbany meeting regarding student housing project - April 28UAlbany meeting regarding student housing project - April 28 John Giarrusso <br />
<br />
We are sending this e-mail to let you know that the University will hold an information/update meeting with neighbors regarding the construction of the student housing project on WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, at 7pm. The meeting will be at the SEFCU Arena, Hall of Fame room. This is the same location as prior meetings. The purpose of the meeting is to review the latest site plans and renderings and discuss the project schedule. We hope you can attend.<br />
<br />
[Please note that we are sending this e-mail to those residents of Tudor Road who had provided an e-mail address at prior UAlbany information sessions and hearings. A notice will be sent in the mail, as well, to all those who provided a postal address].<br />
<br />
________________________________________<br />
John Giarrusso<br />
Associate Vice President - Finance and Business<br />
Facilities Management<br />
University at Albany<br />
(518) 956-8090Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-47793218749623068452010-04-11T13:38:00.000-04:002010-04-11T13:38:29.112-04:00Budget mess stymies Harriman redevelopment<div id="story"><h3> </h3>The Business Review (Albany) - by <a href="http://www.bizjournals.com/search/results.html?Ntt=%22Adam%20Sichko%22&Ntk=All&Ntx=mode%20matchallpartial" id="byline">Adam Sichko</a> <!-- begin story media --> <!-- end story media --> <!-- begin storycontent --> <div id="storycontent"> <br />
<div class="storydate">Friday, April 9, 2010, 11:50am EDT | Modified: Friday, April 9, 2010, 12:28pm </div><h1 class="headline"></h1>The lack of a state budget has prevented officials overseeing the state’s Harriman campus to hire appraisers and advisers in the ongoing redevelopment process.<br />
<br />
The state’s 2010-11 fiscal year began April 1 without a budget. The state is operating on bare-bones, emergency spending plans that keep the lights on, until Gov. David Paterson and legislators hammer out a budget.<br />
<br />
The lack of money means state officials have been unable to hire a development adviser or an appraiser, per requests for proposals (RFPs) issued earlier this year.<br />
<br />
The appraisal, in particular, is key to ongoing negotiations with the developer chosen to work on the campus. The most recent land assessment was done in 2007—before the recession hit.<br />
<br />
The board of directors for the W. Averell Harriman State Office Campus was initially scheduled to vote on winning bids this month, but that will no longer happen.<br />
<br />
“As soon as there’s a budget, we can go forward with that,” said Peter Wohl, president of the <a class="story_clink" href="http://albany.bizjournals.com/albany/related_content.html?topic=Harriman%20Research%20and%20Technology%20Development%20Corp">Harriman Research and Technology Development Corp.</a>, which runs the Albany, N.Y., campus.<br />
<br />
In November 2009, the Harriman board gave Albany-based <a class="story_clink" href="http://albany.bizjournals.com/albany/related_content.html?topic=Columbia%20Development">Columbia Development</a> Cos. the rights to redevelop 140 acres, or about 40 percent, of the 330-acre campus. (For more on the company’s plans, see http://albany.bizjournals.com/albany/stories/2010/02/08/story9.html)<br />
<br />
Throughout last decade, the state has pursued an ambitious plan to renovate the campus to attract high-tech companies and build retail shops and residential units. The initiative stalled repeatedly amid changing state leadership, the recession, tight credit markets and the state’s problems with multi-billion-dollar deficits.<br />
<br />
The remainder of the Harriman campus will continue to be used by state agencies that employ 7,300 people.<br />
The development adviser will help represent state interests in the ongoing contract negotiations with Columbia, in a retainer-like setup, Wohl said.<br />
<br />
The appraisal, meanwhile, is crucial to the negotiations. Harriman land was last appraised before the recession rocked the real estate sector.<br />
<br />
“We know the market has changed. Anyone alive with a pulse realizes it’s not as hot as it once was,” Wohl said.<br />
<br />
In 2007, the Harriman land was assessed at between $300,000 to $400,000 an acre, Wohl said. He said it won’t be an issue if an updated appraisal reveals the land has lost some of its value.<br />
<br />
“We still consider that property and that site some of the most valuable in all of Albany County,” Wohl said. “And regardless of the economic conditions outside, the improvements that will be made to the property will increase the value of the remaining acreage.”<br />
<br />
Harriman officials are also seeking to hire a consultant to help with the environmental siting process, called the State Environmental Quality Review Act, or SEQRA. The law requires developers to identify, and address, the “significant environmental aspects” of whatever work is being proposed or permitted. It’s a process that often takes nine to 12 months to finish.<br />
<br />
The Harriman board is scheduled to meet on April 19.<br />
</div><!-- end storycontent --> <br clear="all" /> <i>asichko@bizjournals.com | 518-640-6818</i><br />
</div>Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-68648008048271633752010-01-15T12:02:00.002-05:002010-01-15T15:16:35.676-05:00The Morning After The Big NightWe had a great turnout at the UAlbany Meeting last night of about thirty five residents.<br />
<br />
Speakers included<br />
<br />
Ira Bloom<br />
Steve Burke<br />
Frank Commisso, Jr.<br />
Joe Cunniff<br />
Kathy Johnson<br />
Ray Moran<br />
Michael O'Brian<br />
Don Reeb<br />
Doug Smith<br />
and myself<br />
<br />
You can see the show at:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.albanycommunitytelevision.com/?p=943">http://www.albanycommunitytelevision.com/?p=943</a><br />
<br />
I also heard that WNYT picked up the meeting last night as well.<br />
<br />
If you hadn't had the chance yet, you can still send in written comments to UAlbany until the 22nd.<br />
<br />
Here is the contact information:<br />
<br />
Errol C, Millington, Director<br />
University At Albany<br />
Office of Campus Planning<br />
1400 Washington Ave<br />
Service Building A Room 107<br />
Albany, NY 12222<br />
<br />
(518) 442-3400 Phone<br />
(518) 442-3464 Fax<br />
<a href="mailto:Emillington@Uamail.Albany.Edu">Emillington@Uamail.Albany.Edu</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Under the rules of SEQRA, they'll have to take them and respond to them in their Final Statement. Remember - if they don't hear your concerns, they won't be answered.Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-91315702675424242472010-01-14T08:12:00.000-05:002010-01-14T08:12:05.385-05:00Meeting Tonight on UAlbany Student Housing ProjectFrom the original letter from UAlbany -<br />
<br />
A Draft Generic Environmental impact Statement (DGEIS) has been completed and accepted for the proposed action described below. Comments are requested and will be accepted by the contact person until January 22, 2010. A public hearing on the DGEIS will be held January 14, 2010 at the Hall of Fame Room, SEFCU Arena, University at Albany, SUNY campus at 7p.m. Copies of the DGEIS are available on the University at Albany, SUNY web site at: http://www.albany.edu/facilities/dgeis/ and at hard copy repositories located at the University at Albany, SUNY Facilities Management Office and the Main Library on the Uptown Campus,the Guilderland Public Library, and the Hawley Library on the Downtown Campus.<br />
<br />
Back to the soapbox -<br />
<br />
Please attend this meeting to give voice to your concerns and to hear the concerns of your neighbors!<br />
<br />
The meeting tonight should be recorded by a stenographer, and videoed. Under law, UAlbany is obliged to hear all the comments about its proposed action tonight and in any written comments filed by January 22nd.<br />
<br />
Based on these comments, the Draft Statement must be revised to answer all expressed concerns to become final. UAlbany expects that this part of the process will be done by the end of February.<br />
<br />
The Harriman Research and Development Technology Corporation has made it clear that it won't take any actions, including any land transfers, until UAlbany finishes this Environmental Review Process. This includes both the 3.3 and 11 acre land transfers.<br />
<br />
If UAlbany finds 'no significant impact' from its construction program, construction of the Student Housing will begin this spring.<br />
<br />
Let UAlbany and HRDTC know that the Student Housing project will have 'significant impact' so that more reasonable development may occur!<br />
<br />
Steve SokalSteven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-68731325727729168562010-01-14T07:57:00.001-05:002010-01-14T07:58:17.597-05:00UAlbany dorm options limitedHarriman development unlikely site, giving Eagle Hill area more weight<br />
<br />
By JORDAN CARLEO-EVANGELIST, Staff writer<br />
First published in print: Thursday, January 14, 2010<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=888644&category=ALBANY&BCCode=&newsdate=1/14/2010">Direct Link</a><br />
<br />
ALBANY -- The board charged with overseeing the redevelopment of the Harriman State Office Campus is unlikely to support an 11-acre land transfer to the University at Albany, the only option that school officials said will allow them to move a proposed new dorm farther from nearby homes.<br />
<br />
The move means the 500-bed, apartment-style dorm will probably be located on wooded land in the southeast corner of UAlbany's uptown campus, a proposal that has angered neighbors in nearby Eagle Hill who fear increased noise, traffic, flooding and sewer problems.<br />
<br />
While stopping short of a formal decision until the university's environmental review process is complete, the board of the Harriman Research and Technology Development Corp. earlier this week indicated it favors a smaller 3.3-acre land transfer that would encroach less on the 330-acre office campus.<br />
<br />
The news comes as UAlbany is to host a hearing tonight on the environmental impact of the dorm, along with 12 other projects.<br />
<br />
In response to opposition from neighbors and elected officials, the university pitched an alternative to the Harriman board in November that would require about 7.7 more acres of state office campus to allow UAlbany to pull the dorm further from nearby homes. That plan would have also required rerouting a section of the Harriman campus' distinctive ring road.<br />
<br />
UAlbany's 11-acre option "less significantly impacts on Tudor Road," said HRTDC Executive Director Peter Wohl, referring to the closest residents, "but it impacts the Harriman campus in a much more severe way ... including the loss of prime developable lands."<br />
<br />
The dorm controversy is taking place as HRTDC, a subsidiary of Empire State Development, the state's economic development arm, is pushing ahead with redevelopment of about 140-acres of the Harriman campus as a private high-tech hub.<br />
<br />
At the same November meeting where UAlbany made its pitch for the additional 7.7 acres, the board -- which includes UAlbany President George Philip and Mayor Jerry Jennings -- tapped Columbia Development as the preferred developer. The state is negotiating contract details with Columbia.<br />
<br />
City officials back redevelopment as a way to get a large chunk of the land, currently tax-exempt, producing revenue for Albany.<br />
<br />
Jennings said he understands neighbors' concerns, but he noted that state law requires that UAlbany address them in the environmental review process. He urged residents to take a more holistic view of how the development will benefit Albany.<br />
<br />
"The neighbors should think about ... a bigger tax base," said Jennings, who initially proposed the 3.3-acre land transfer as an early way to mitigate their concerns.<br />
<br />
He said that while he believes the campus' ring roads should be eliminated to free up more land for development, he doesn't believe it should be done piecemeal.<br />
<br />
In a statement, UAlbany said it was "disappointed that our amended proposal ... was not approved" but hailed the board's "conceptual" support for the dorm project using the smaller parcel.<br />
<br />
Ultimately, the state Office of General Services, which controls the land, has final say over the transfer. But that is not likely to be an obstacle because OGS Commissioner John Egan is also chairman of the Harriman board.<br />
<br />
Meeting today<br />
<br />
A public hearing on UAlbany's draft environmental impact statement for the dorm and other projects is scheduled for 7 tonight at the SEFCU Arena.<br />
<br />
Jordan Carleo-Evangelist can be reached at 454-5445 or by e-mail at jcarleo-evangelist@timesunion.com.Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-59521014249478950942010-01-12T10:13:00.000-05:002010-01-12T10:13:15.270-05:00Recording of the January 11, 2010 Harriman Board MeetingHere is Albany Community Television's recording of yesterday's Harriman Research and Technology Development Corporation's meeting. (Thank you again, Joe Cunniff! How else could we see what our government is doing?)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.albanycommunitytelevision.com/?p=928">http://www.albanycommunitytelevision.com/?p=928</a><br />
<br />
The Board considered and rejected the UAlbany proposal to use 11 acres of Harriman Campus land for its dormitory project. The Board was also briefed on ongoing discussions with Columbia Development, and plans for future construction.<br />
<br />
The fifty minutes viewing time for the video is worthwhile for any Albany resident to see what is and will be happening in our neighborhood.Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-82935852123958350022010-01-12T09:13:00.000-05:002010-01-12T09:13:58.143-05:00NY seeks advisers for Harriman projectThe Business Review (Albany)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://albany.bizjournals.com/albany/stories/2010/01/11/daily9.html">Direct Link</a><br />
<br />
Harriman board says developer may be picked within 6 weeks <br />
<br />
The state is seeking to hire three advisers as it prepares to develop a slice of its Harriman office campus in Albany, N.Y.<br />
<br />
State officials said Monday that three requests for proposals, or RFPs, are almost ready to be issued. The board of directors for the Harriman Research and Technology Development Corp. plans to vote on selected proposals in an April meeting.<br />
<br />
The RFPs are one of the next steps the state is taking as it prepares almost half of the 330 acres at the W. Averell Harriman State Office Campus for development.<br />
<br />
In late November, the campus’ board of directors unanimously awarded Albany-based Columbia Development Cos. the rights to redevelop 140 acres of the campus—a controversial and abrupt decision, in the eyes of developers who lost the bid to overhaul the campus.<br />
<br />
The Harriman board met behind closed doors on Nov. 30, 2009, to discuss development plans before emerging to formally vote to adopt Columbia’s vision.<br />
<br />
Throughout last decade, the state has pursued an ambitious plan to renovate the campus to lure high-tech companies and build retail shops and residential units. The initiative stalled repeatedly amid changing state leadership, the recession, tight credit markets and the state’s problems with multi-billion-dollar deficits.<br />
<br />
The remainder of the Harriman campus will continue to be used by state agencies that employ 7,300 people.<br />
<br />
Peter Wohl, president of the Harriman Research and Technology Development Corp., said the state will soon issue RFPs for three needs:<br />
<br />
• a development adviser, to assist with site planning, as well as engineering and environmental studies, as needed<br />
<br />
• a property appraiser, to calculate new assessments of the Harriman campus that will replace “outdated” property values on file with the state, Wohl said.<br />
<br />
• a consultant to help with the environmental siting process, called the State Environmental Quality Review Act, or SEQRA. The law requires developers to identify, and address, the “significant environmental aspects” of whatever work is being proposed or permitted.<br />
<br />
“That takes nine to 12 months to complete, so we’re looking to engage someone fairly quickly,” Wohl said at a Monday meeting of the Harriman board.<br />
<br />
The board plans to vote on winning bids at an April 12 meeting, its next regularly scheduled session.<br />
<br />
Wohl said the state is continuing negotiations with Columbia Development. There is no timeline for finishing those talks.<br />
<br />
The state has declined to make public any elements of Columbia’s concept for the Harriman campus, citing an exemption in the state’s Freedom of Information law for ongoing contract negotiations.Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-72215801008879578102010-01-11T19:47:00.002-05:002010-01-12T09:03:06.411-05:00HRDTC Turns Down UAlbany Request for use of Harriman Campus LandAt today's meeting of the Harriman Research and Development Technology Corporation, the Board turned down a request by UAlbany to use 11 acres of Harriman Campus land for the location of its housing project.<br />
<br />
According to Peter Wohl, President of HRDTC, the responsibility of the Corporation is to obtain the maximum value of the Harriman Campus land. The UAlbany proposal failed to meet his objectives. The University would receive the land in a transfer between state agencies. There would not be any money from the lease or sale of the land.<br />
<br />
Additionally, UAlbany use of the land would not produce additional tax revenues for the City of Albany, nor would it further promote the primary goal of HRDTC to further research and development projects in Albany. For these reasons, Mr. Wohl called for rejection of the UAlbany proposal, and the Board agreed with his recommendation.<br />
<br />
As a result, UAlbany's alternate plan for the location of the housing project has been rejected. UAlbany will continue development along the property line along the west side of Tudor Road.<br />
<br />
I have two comments about the effects of this decision:<br />
<br />
Whether it is UAlbany or HRDTC as the responsible agency, the housing project is slated to proceed, despite the concerns of the Eagle Hill neighborhood, UAlbany's preferences, or the opposition of many of our elected officials. The actions of the board of the HRDTC should be brought to the attention of the public and our elected officials.<br />
<br />
Second, UAlbany will continue with the only plan that they have prepared at this point. On Thursday night, there will be a meeting to discuss the Environmental Impact Statement that they have prepared. Please read their report, attend the meeting, if possible, or provide your written comments to UAlbany by January 22nd.<br />
<br />
We have been successful in reaching UAlbany, and obtaining some respect, and meaningful changes. Please hold onto hope for a better outcome for Eagle Hill!<br />
<br />
Steve SokalSteven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-50147339933990893212009-12-19T09:38:00.000-05:002009-12-19T09:38:51.055-05:00Times Union FOIL request on Harriman plan rejectedFirst published in print: Saturday, December 19, 2009<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=879979">Direct Link<br />
</a><br />
<br />
ALBANY -- Empire State Development has rejected a Times Union Freedom of Information Law request to see a development plan for Harriman State Office Campus.<br />
<br />
ESD last month announced that Columbia Development, an Albany firm, had won the role of preferred developer at the campus where the state plans a wave of construction. ESD, though, would not release Columbia's development proposal, prompting the Dec. 1 FOIL request.<br />
<br />
ESD rebuffed that request in a Dec. 8 letter, saying that releasing the Columbia proposal would impair ongoing contract negotiations with the firm.<br />
<br />
-- Chris ChurchillSteven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-44585025625002738442009-12-15T13:17:00.000-05:002009-12-15T13:17:01.924-05:00Harriman campus gets offer for redevelopment - Some concerned no plans have been released yetBy Bob Bennett<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_WOOsCi0_ekcJJbm6bVLgE-qCBulkHZuW2QNDHWYsd7ydfgHm40o4Oj7xdshy0UziJJazQmPhMYfpm1LK8GK7zDWQHrJlRFwqV3LC_bILfWvZVOXVB_cz_euA0Swnjyg_7uic9Fde_dh9/s1600-h/125945vsl27C7484_med.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_WOOsCi0_ekcJJbm6bVLgE-qCBulkHZuW2QNDHWYsd7ydfgHm40o4Oj7xdshy0UziJJazQmPhMYfpm1LK8GK7zDWQHrJlRFwqV3LC_bILfWvZVOXVB_cz_euA0Swnjyg_7uic9Fde_dh9/s320/125945vsl27C7484_med.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><br />
<br />
The eastern section of the Harriman Office Campus houses state Taxation and Finance, pictured, and other state offices. Columbia Development Companies is currently in negotiations for the right to redevelop the campus. So far, plans have not been released and several local and state leaders do not know how many, if any, private businesses will be located on the campus.<br />
Photo by Bob Bennett. <br />
<br />
December 14, 2009<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.legislativegazette.com/Articles-c-2009-12-14-64331.113122_Harriman_campus_gets_offer_for_redevelopment.html">Direct Link</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Columbia Development Companies has entered into negotiations for the right to redevelop the W. A. Harriman State Office Campus. But the company has not yet unveiled specific plans for the office park, which concerns some nearby residents and their City Council members.<br />
<br />
The state-owned, 330-acre office campus is situated to the east side of the University at Albany and now houses state agency buildings, including one that houses the New York State Police headquarters. And although the property currently benefits from tax-exempt status, an influx of new development could generate a lot of tax revenue for the state, but several city residents still have expressed concern because they have yet to learn the details of Columbia's plan. <br />
<br />
"To this day I've not seen the plan that Columbia has developed," said Albany City Councilman Mike O'Brien, who represents a district that includes part of the Harriman campus. "My hunch is that the plan is rather abstract," he said. "I suspect it's not super specific." <br />
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A directory of the office campus’s 330-acre layout, which houses several state office buildings and about 7,300 state employees. Those on the Harriman development board say state workers will not be moved under redevelopment plans. Photo by Bob Bennett. <br />
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Albany City Councilman Dan Herring said he has also not seen the plan, but he too has some concerns because the campus "butts up to" many people's homes, and because those people don't know what's going to be built there. <br />
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"People are just concerned because they want to know if it's going to be compatible with their neighborhood," Herring said. "One reason we want some more details is to address their concerns, but the city is very pleased that it is being developed."<br />
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Both councilmen said part of their constituents' apprehensions stem from a proposal from the University at Albany, which approached the Harriman board about building dorms near those people's homes. <br />
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Assemblyman Jack McEneny, D-Albany, said, "I have always had a problem with the way Harriman was done." <br />
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He said he has always thought the office campus should fall under UAlbany's control as a way to help facilitate its technology school. <br />
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He also said the state needs the tax base the campus could potentially generate, so he hopes the land will be leased to those in the private sector. <br />
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Peter Wohl, the president of the board of the Harriman Research and Technology Development Corp., a subsidiary of the Empire State Development Corp., confirmed that UAlbany has approached the board about building dorms on the Harriman campus. However, he said the university was simply expressing its interest, which will be taken into consideration.<br />
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"There's a possibility that could happen," Wohl said, "but it was much more of an FYI." <br />
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He also said that nanotechnology, which has been a part of the master plan for redevelopment since 2006, is a first priority, and the board would very much like to build upon the research at UAlbany. <br />
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Wohl said the board is in pursuit of some research and development companies but that no one yet knows which companies could occupy the land. <br />
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Those companies are "sort of the ideal tenants," Wohl said. <br />
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The plan the board envisions would also include some residential housing, but research and development are the priority, Wohl said. The board is currently trying to get input from all of the stakeholders in the project, including the state and local governments. <br />
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"Let me express my understanding in the public's interest in the plan," Wohl said. "This plan very much envisions the community." <br />
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Wohl also said the project would generate some much-needed tax revenue for the city as well as the state. The plan envisions transferring ownership from the state of New York to private companies. During the initial phase of the plan, the Harriman development team would market parcels to interested parties, incrementally and in sub-sections, but the state would reclaim those parcels in a year's time if those businesses failed to draw revenue for the state. <br />
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"Obviously the state is feeling the pinch right now," Wohl said of New York's dwindling tax base. <br />
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Wohl also said approximately half of Harriman's 330 acres would be used — the other half is mostly occupied by state agencies. <br />
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The board also still envisions using the existing buildings, as former Gov. Eliot Spitzer's administration had previously proposed, and keeping all 7,300 state employees in place, Wohl said.<br />
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Tom Comonzo, the vice president of the public employees federation, said he's anxious to see the plan because there have been many proposals over the years that called for moving state employees. He also said the currents set-up is self contained and includes parking, so he would prefer to keep the employees there as long as possible. <br />
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Spitzer's plan for the office campus came after a 1998 proposal by the Office of General Services, which called for selling the land and moving all state employees to downtown Albany. Spitzer's plan also came after a 2003 plan Gov. George E. Pataki backed to demolish the buildings and start construction of a new office and technology park from the ground up.<br />
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"Overall, [the plan] is a step in the right direction," said Mike Yevoli, the director of Planning and Development for the city of Albany. It takes nontaxable property and creates potential for new tax revenue from private businesses and new opportunities for residents … not only for jobs. It's ripe for development, as opposed to picking a green field somewhere else." <br />
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Yevoli said the plan calls for a more community-friendly layout, which could include housing, but he is unsure exactly what that layout will look like. <br />
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Other than housing and research and development facilities, the campus would also include commercial retail businesses and office space, Yezoli said. <br />
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But it's still unclear exactly what businesses will be built on the land because of the ongoing negotiations with Columbia. <br />
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Eight calls to the development company were not returned. <br />
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Bob VanAmburgh, the executive assistant to Albany Mayor Gerald Jennings, who is on the board, said the mayor has long been committed to finding someone to develop the land there. <br />
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"It's the last major track of contiguous land in the city, obviously he's concerned with development within the area," VanAmburgh said, referring to the mayor. <br />
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He said he has not seen Columbia's plan for re-development so he would not comment on what businesses might be located there in the future, though he did say nanotechnology could be a consideration, which both governors have proposed. <br />
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He also could not say whether the existing buildings will be re-used. <br />
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The park is currently occupied by the state police academy, a state police forensics lab and several other state agency buildings. <br />
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Wohl said it could still be a couple of months before any final decisions are made. But he added that he understands the public's impatience at this point — talk of the project has been going on for about 10 years now. <br />
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But Wohl added, "We're actually trying to get something done."Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-52833593376484376702009-12-09T15:22:00.000-05:002009-12-09T15:22:25.744-05:00Draft Generic Environmental Impact Statement has been posted!The UAlbany Capital Construction Plan Draft Generic Environmental Impact Statement has been posted, and is available from <a href="http://www.albany.edu/facilities/dgeis">http://www.albany.edu/facilities/dgeis</a>. As noted previously, we are at a fork in the road! The DGEIS does describe the fork as follows:<br />
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<blockquote>Notwithstanding the planning and concept work to date and the likelihood of the southeast corner site as the location for the housing, at the time of publishing this DGEIS, the University is pursuing an alternate concept to fully locate this housing project on the adjacent State-owned Harriman Campus.<br />
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The Harriman Campus location in mind is approximately 11 acres, inclusive of the 3.3 acres mentioned above, and is directly adjacent to University property, due north of the southeast corner site. Specifically, on November 30, 2009, the University asked the Board of Directors of the HRTDC to consider this project for the Harriman Campus site. HRTDC, in conjunction with the NYSOGS, is the entity responsible for planning and development of the adjacent campus. To date, HRTDC and the State of New York have earmarked the Harriman Campus for private development with no land specifically identified for University at Albany projects. The outcome of this request is not yet known, but should this site be approved by the HRTDC and NYSOGS, the University may amend its housing construction plans, necessitating an amended environmental review, as appropriate, to address environmental issues and impacts specific to said new site.<br />
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For the purposes of this DGEIS document, however, the site selection for this housing project is deemed to be the southeast corner of the UAlbany campus, and the design concepts for that site that have been developed, described above, and publicly shared to date will be discussed and analyzed herein for environmental impact.<br />
</blockquote>Please read these documents and let us know what you think!Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-40445147800430987202009-12-09T08:22:00.000-05:002009-12-09T08:22:47.107-05:00A Fork in the RoadUAlbany published its legal notice stating that its Draft Environmental Impact Statement is ready, setting a comment period through January 22, 2010, and a public hearing on January 14, 2010. The notice appears below.<br />
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At this moment, UAlbany has only two potential sites for student housing - the Southeast Corner of the Uptown Campus or on the Harriman Campus. While they are pursuing the Harriman Campus option, that option requires approval by the Harriman Research and Technology Development Corporation Board of Directors. That meeting is scheduled for January 11, 2010. Until the Board acts favorably on the proposal, UAlbany will be building on the original site.<br />
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The Impact Statement isn't available yet. When it does appear, please read it very carefully, and raise any concerns that you may have by sending your comments to UAlbany, and showing up at the public meeting.<br />
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Stay in touch!Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-58404071601493825432009-12-09T08:11:00.002-05:002009-12-09T08:30:01.839-05:00Draft Environmental Impact Statement of UAlbany Capital Construction Plan<div style="text-align: center;"><b>State Environmental Quality Review</b><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Notice of Completion of Draft</b><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>and</b><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Notice of SEQR Hearing</b><br />
</div><br />
<b>Date: </b>December 9, 2009<br />
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<b>Lead Agency:</b> University at Albany, SUNY<br />
<br />
<b>Address:</b> 1400 Washington Avenue Albany, NY 12222<br />
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This notice is issued pursuant to Part 617 of the implementing regulations pertaining to Article 8 (State Environmental Quality Review Act) of the Environmental Conservation Law,<br />
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A Draft Generic Environmental impact Statement (DGEIS) has been completed and accepted for the proposed action described below. Comments are requested and will be accepted by the contact person until January 22, 2010. A public hearing on the DGEIS will be held January 14, 2010 at the Hall of Fame Room, SEFCU Arena, University at Albany, SUNY campus at 7p.m. Copies of the DGEIS are available on the University at Albany, SUNY web site at: http://www.albany.edu/facilities/dgeis/ and at hard copy repositories located at the University at Albany, SUNY Facilities Management Office and the Main Library on the Uptown Campus,the Guilderland Public Library, and the Hawley Library on the Downtown Campus.<br />
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<b>Name of Action:</b> University at Albany, SUNY Capital Project Plan<br />
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<b>Description of Action:</b><br />
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As part of the continuing evolution of University at Albany, SUNY Uptown Campus, a Capital Project Plan has been developed that involves a holistic perspective and encompasses the foreseeable capital needs of the Uptown campus over a five year planning horizon. The following list provides a summary of the projects that constitute this Capital Project Plan.<br />
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1. Student Housing Project: Construction of new student housing facilities with approximately 500 apartment-style beds<br />
2. Campus Center Master Plan: Construction of student activity, and surge space of approximately 50,000 sq ft under roof<br />
3. Construct New Business School Building: Construct new 90,000 sq ft academic facility<br />
4. Relocate Data Center: Relocate campus Data Center to another site on campus<br />
5. Implement Various Athletics Improvements: Phase series of improvements to athletics facilities<br />
6. Purple Path Continuation: Construction of the Purple Path to encircle and incorporate pedestrian and bicycle paths around the perimeter of the Uptown Campus<br />
7. Northern Landscape Improvement Project: Perform activities consistent with Landscape Master Plan<br />
8. State Quad Parking Lot Expansion: Add approximately 250 spaces to west side of State Quad parking Lot<br />
9. Multi-Discipline Science Surge Building: Construction of academic building of approximately 150,000 sq ft to facilitate Podium renovations<br />
10. Service Building Renovation: Add approximately 24,325 sq ft addition for vehicle, operations, small engine and metal shops<br />
11. Entry Improvements: Improve entrance aesthetics and safety at Washington and Western Avenues<br />
12. Bus Rapid Transit: Based on recommendations in the Harriman - University at Albany, SUNY Linkage Study, locate Bus Rapid Transit stations on campus<br />
13. Bicycle-Pedestrian Path: Develop a network of paths, improving connections between each quad, the Podium, and the Purple Path<br />
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<b>Location:</b> University at Albany, SUNY Uptown Campus<br />
1400 Washington Avenue<br />
Albany, NY 12222<br />
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<b>Potential Environmental Impacts:</b><br />
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Potential unavoidable adverse environmental impacts may result as a consequence of the Capital Project Plan.<br />
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Construction Phase: Potential unavoidable adverse environmental impacts as a result of construction phase activities associated with the Capital Project Plan include:<br />
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• short-term disruption and exposure of soils as a result of excavation, grading; and restoration activities<br />
• increased potential for sedimentation and erosion as a result of disruption and exposure of soils<br />
• consumption of petroleum hydrocarbon fuels during construction phase activities and the subsequent release of air pollutants and GHGs, including carbon monoxide, particulate matter, carbon dioxide, and nitrous oxide<br />
• potential short-term and localized increases in dust and vehicle/equipment emissions to construction activities<br />
• temporary construction-related noise, truck traffic and other campus disruptions.<br />
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The potential unavoidable adverse environmental impacts identified above will be term in nature and limited in scope. Following the completion of construction-related activities, restoration and mitigation measures will be implemented.<br />
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Operational Phase: Potential unavoidable adverse environmental impacts as a result of operational phase activities associated with the Capital Project Plan include:<br />
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• commitment of previously undeveloped land on the University at Albany, SUNY Uptown Campus for implementation of components of the Capital Project Plan<br />
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• modification or loss of existing terrestrial and forested habitats, vegetative cover, and landscaped open space as a result of implementation of the Capital Project Plan<br />
• displacement of wildlife associated with existing habitats<br />
• potential for increased surface runoff as a result an increase in impervious surfaces<br />
• consumption of petroleum hydrocarbon fuels and the subsequent release of air pollutants and GHGs, including carbon monoxide, particulate matter, carbon dioxide, and nitrous oxide<br />
• noise and lighting impacts to surrounding residential neighborhoods resulting from the development of one or more of these projects in proximity on the Uptown Campus, such as the Student Housing Project (Project No. 1)<br />
• localized and short-term increase in traffic levels along roadways in the vicinity of the Uptown Campus during normal campus activities and during periodic, recurring events, such as sporting events at the multi-use stadium.<br />
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The potential unavoidable adverse environmental impacts identified above are not anticipates to be significant. Appropriately designed and implemented mitigation measures will minimize potentially unavoidable adverse environmental impacts associated with the implementation of the Capital Project Plan.<br />
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Contact Person: Errol Millington, Director<br />
Address: Office of Campus Planning<br />
University at Albany, SUNY<br />
1400 Washington Avenue, Service Building A<br />
Albany, NY 12222<br />
<a href="mailto:EMillington@uamail.albany.edu">EMillington@uamail.albany.edu</a><br />
518-442-3400<br />
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<b>A copy of this notice must be sent to:</b><br />
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Department of Environmental Conservation, Albany, NY 12233-1750<br />
Chief Executive Officer, Town/City/Village of: Mayor of Albany<br />
Any person who has requested a copy of the Draft/Final DGEIS<br />
Any other involved agency<br />
Environmental Notice Bulletin, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-1750<br />
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<b>Copies of the DGEIS must be distributed according to 6 NYCRR 617.12(b).</b>Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-36706945184571723362009-12-07T15:20:00.000-05:002009-12-07T15:20:16.040-05:00WAMC: Progress on 2 Albany Projects (2009-12-07)Here is an article and audio on the downtown Convention Center and Harriman Campus developments -<br /><br /><a href="http://www.publicbroadcasting.net/wamc/news.newsmain/article/1/0/1585969/WAMC.New.York.News/Progress.on.2.Albany.Projects">WAMC: Progress on 2 Albany Projects (2009-12-07)</a><br /><br />Peter Wohl is interviewed, and committed to follow the 2006 master plan found <a href="http://www.harrimancampus.com/Development_Strategy/default.asp">here.</a>Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-22901682624264500432009-12-07T08:05:00.001-05:002009-12-07T08:11:32.591-05:00Time to share Harriman planFirst published in print: Monday, December 7, 2009<br />
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<a href="http://www.timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=874730&category=MONEDIT">Direct Link<br />
</a><br />
So here's the Harriman office campus, 330 acres of the best, and perhaps last, developable parcels of land in Albany, ready for a very belated transformation. Soon enough, that dreary 1960s creation of some of the most bland and impersonal state office buildings imaginable could be ... well, what exactly?<br />
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We don't know, despite repeated efforts to find out.<br />
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Neither do the neighbors.<br />
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That's more than enough to cast dreary, potentially ominous, shadows over what should be encouraging news that a developer -- a politically well-connected one as it happens -- has been chosen.<br />
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Could there be a more reasonable question than what Joe Cunniff, president of the neighborhood association along the adjacent stretch of upper Washington Avenue, is asking?<br />
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"I'd like to know if they're going to build a 300-bed hotel," he says. "Is a dorm included in all this? What exactly is in the package that was proposed?"<br />
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Something's wrong when the public can see the rejected plan for $2 billion worth of retail, office and residential construction submitted by Howard Carr of the Howard Group, but not the one proposed by the Columbia Development Cos. that's been approved by the state.<br />
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"They have a well-assembled team, and it looks to us like they can do a good job," John Egan, commissioner of the state Office of General Services and a Harriman board member, says of Columbia.<br />
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Perhaps they can. Work done by Columbia, along with its affiliated BBL Construction Cos., is everywhere in Albany.<br />
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Yet Empire State Development says ongoing negotiations with Columbia preclude the release of any details about what it's about to do with the Harriman site.<br />
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It's an unconvincing argument. The direction and quality of life in Albany is on the line. The accountability of the state government entity that makes those decisions is at issue, too. Failure to level with people about what's about to happen in their own neighborhood can only breed cynicism.<br />
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One crucial detail yet to emerge about what we can only presume will be a combination of housing, stores, a hotel and maybe a University at Albany dormitory is what will become of the road that surrounds the Harriman campus, cutting it off from the adjoining neighborhoods. That's really where the failure to use that land wisely begins.<br />
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Mr. Carr calls the road the moat that makes the campus an island of sorts. Mayor Jerry Jennings has argued as well, rightfully and forcefully, that the road must go -- in large part so more of those 330 acres could be developed and generate property taxes. A 2006 state master plan called for its removal, too. It's not overstating things to say that a plan that keeps even part of the road is compromised from the start.<br />
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It's enough to wonder. Does the fate of that road have anything to do with the secrecy surrounding the development plan?<br />
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It's time citizens of Albany saw what the insiders have in store for them.<br />
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The issue:<br />
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A developer is chosen for a huge project in Albany.<br />
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The stakes:<br />
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Why can't the public know the essential details?<br />
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To comment: <a href="mailto:tuletters@timesunion.com">tuletters@timesunion.com</a>Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-7472770836444848142009-12-06T10:50:00.002-05:002009-12-07T10:20:21.861-05:00A lesson in what not to doFirst published in print: Sunday, December 6, 2009<br />
<br />
Direct Link<br />
<br />
In one University at Albany classroom, the method used to redevelop Harriman State Office Campus has become a lesson in what not to do.<br />
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Harriman, for the unfamiliar, is a state-owned campus that officials want to transform through private development. The state has selected a development plan, but has refused to release it.<br />
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"The process certainly doesn't inspire confidence and trust," said <a href="http://www.albany.edu/gp/gpnew/content/AboutUs/Faculty/Bunnell.html">Gene Bunnell</a>, a UAlbany planning professor. "It's an odd way they're going about it."<br />
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Bunnell said that in a recent class, he unfavorably compared the state's method at Harriman to the very public process used to redevelop the old Stapleton Airport in Denver into a successful new neighborhood.<br />
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Officials here did use public input to craft a 2006 Harriman campus plan, but that blueprint seems to have been abandoned.<br />
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"I don't know why they scrapped that," Bunnell said.<a href="http://www.timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=874487&category=BUSINESS"></a>Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851685536479477107.post-67745208359193346162009-12-04T11:43:00.001-05:002009-12-07T15:22:00.898-05:00The Alexander is open for businessChris Churchill at the Times Union has a blog entry describing the new Alexander apartments, which are located on the north side of the Harriman Campus. It's worth looking at to see the type of development that might occur on the campus itself.<br />
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<a href="http://blog.timesunion.com/realestate/the-alexander-is-open-for-business/745/">Direct Link</a>Steven Sokalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18261693117688742365noreply@blogger.com0