Albany Medical Center has revealed the finishing phase of its ongoing 500-million dollar neighborhood revitalization plan. When the old neighborhood surrounding Albany Med is completely rebuilt, it will cap what officials call "the transformation of New Scotland Corridor" - becoming a new community.
The project aligns with the 2006 Park South Urban Renewal Plan encompassing a nine-block area: Albany Medical Center President and CEO Jim Barba says it is following a strict timeline. Two blocks will be demolished simultaneously... Barba quelled any fears that current low-income residents would be forced out.
Albany Common Council member Leah Golby of the 10th ward been one of the project's staunchest supporters. Albany City Treasurer and Democratic mayoral candidate Kathy Sheehan sits on the board of the Albany Industrial Development Agency. She says the urban renewal plan is an exciting opportunity for the city. Albany County Executive Dan McCoy concurs that "it's a great project."
The neighborhood transformation is projected to be completed by 2015.
