AOA7 drawing: The Confectionery or Peck's Arcade or The Grocery
Drawing's closed! Winner's been emailed!
This week AOA celebrates our 7th birthday, so of course that means presents. Throughout the week we'll have drawings for fun Capital Region stuff.
The next prize up: A $75 gift certificate to The Confectionery, Peck's Arcade, or The Grocery in Troy -- the winner gets to choose which one.
And to enter the drawing, please answer this question in the comments:
All three of those establishments are in historical buildings that have been made over. Which Capital Region building/place would you like to make over, and how?
This is one of the wave-a-magic-wand questions, so don't be confined too much by complications like funding -- there will be totally non-redeemable bonus points for imaginative answers. We'll draw one winner at random.
Important: All comments must be submitted by 6 pm on Wednesday, March 25, 2015 to be entered in the drawing. You must answer the question to be part of the drawing. (Normal commenting guidelines apply.) One entry per person, please. You must enter a valid email address (that you check regularly) with your comment. The winner will be notified via email by 5 pm on Thursday and must respond by 5 pm on Friday, March 27.
Say Something!
We'd really like you to take part in the conversation here at All Over Albany. But we do have a few rules here. Don't worry, they're easy. The first: be kind. The second: treat everyone else with the same respect you'd like to see in return. Cool? Great, post away. Comments are moderated so it might take a little while for your comment to show up. Thanks for being patient.
Comments
I would love to renovate the Irish Mist building on 2nd Street in Troy and turn it into a proper underground venue for alternative nightlife.
... said Mr. F on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:02 PM | link
Howabout we get rid of that monstrosity along 787 @ Albany? (old refrigeration building...is it?)
... said JES on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:05 PM | link
The storefront on the corner of Madison and New Scotland! I'd love to open a fresh produce grocery and bakery there as an alternative to the neighborhood's lousy price chopper.
... said Glenna on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:06 PM | link
The huge white abandoned building down by Huck Finn's. I'd love to make it into a big museum with rooftop dining. I picture a lot of greenery in it, and exhibits that compete with NYC museums.
... said ep on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:07 PM | link
Since we're dreaming big, I'll say the entire South Troy waterfront, turn it into a combination of the solar farm that's been often discussed and a huge preserve with access to the water (better than what's been set up) walking/biking paths, picnic areas, etc.
Oh and I wish I could "like" the Irish Mist idea like on fb.
... said Kizzi on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:11 PM | link
id redo the the armory in Albany.
... said Tom on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:11 PM | link
The Cold Storage building in Albany would make interesting studio spaces or galleries, but needs a lot of work!
... said Patrick on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:11 PM | link
I would rehab one of the for-rent buildings on Lark Street and turn it into a bakery! We need a full-scale bakery (breads, cakes, etc.) in Center Square.
... said Amanda on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:14 PM | link
I would love to do a complete renovation of where DeJohn's used to be on Lark Street. I would want to renovate the entire building to have each floor be a different type and theme of bar/food, with elegant furnishings and something to cater to every taste.
... said AS on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:14 PM | link
444 River Street has a lot of potential with those great wood floors and brick walls. Apartments would be great, but bringing back Collarworks gallery, Petes Place, or Brocks would be good too.
... said T on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:14 PM | link
I'd love to make over the old adult cinema in downtown Troy (directly next door to Troy Cloth & Paper) into an entertainment/local music venue. Picture a place to go on Saturday mornings after stopping by the Farmer's Market to watch old Saturday morning cartoons. Or a place to go during the week to see classic films in recycled couches and recliners. Friday and Saturday nights would host comedy shows or local musicians. To top things off, I'd like to make over the location right next door (use to be Jen's Barber shop) with a simple kitchen to serve vegan diner food- open early to be enjoyed with the cartoons, or late night after enjoying a show.
... said Jona on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:15 PM | link
I would love to make over some of the gorgeous historic buildings on state street near Pearl. That area could be an awesome shopping district - with hip little shops and nice lunch places serving locals and the state worker population. Above the street level shops could be lovely condos or apartments.
Also the clear historic makeover we need is St. Joseph's Church. I think it should be a twice a week farmer's market/juice bar. Wednesday nights, and Sundays.
... said jenna on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:16 PM | link
Troy Gas House, gallery and venue.
... said Ed on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:16 PM | link
The 5 story building across from Townsend Park on Central Ave. I believe it used to be a car dealership long ago. It would be perfect as loft-style apartments. And yeah, sorry, but upscale, expensive ones that I couldn't swing. Think Brian Kinney's from Queer as Folk.
Chris Churchill wrote about it back when he wrote the Times Union's Places and Spaces blog:
http://blog.timesunion.com/realestate/somebody-please-buy-this-building/6619/
... said JayK on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:16 PM | link
I would like to see our roadways being updated to accommodate safer city biking and bikeways. This would increase access to the city and to parks, which could increase local shops, food trucks, and pit stops. The riverfront corning preserve is one example
... said Tiffany on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:20 PM | link
Wouldn't the Washington Park lakehouse make an excellent little library/community center? All that space and so seldom used...
... said Michelle on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:20 PM | link
I would like to see one of the warehouses in Albany turned into a music venue similar to the 9:30 club in DC.
... said Sharon on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:21 PM | link
I would like to make over the Albany riverfront and 787 ramps! I'd like to demolish all the ramps, especially the ones going under the ESP and recreate a city grid where the old convention center site is. I'd like to see mixed use buildings with retail and apartments pop up in that area, with access to the river, making the waterfront area more like Canalside in Buffalo.
... said ACW on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:24 PM | link
I think the Armory needs some help- its a good location and has potential then being a venue with a bad reputation.
... said Sarah on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:27 PM | link
This is not a building, but it certainly is a place, hope this qualifies.
There's an old abandoned train in Glenmont, near the river. I'd clean that up and turn it into a prohibition era speakeasy-like bar and restaurant.
Someone took some amazing photos of it and posted them to flickr.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/altuwa/sets/72157618842953778/
... said Steve N. on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:29 PM | link
If I could make over any area in Albany it would be the Empire State Plaza. With the plaza set out as it is, Albany feels like a very disjointed city with the majority of the government buildings clustered in one (relatively) small area and then circled by housing and businesses on the perimeter. I understand the desire for convenience to have many state agencies all in one place, but many other cities manage to function with its legislature, executives, and agencies peppered throughout the city. I'd accomplish this by demolishing the existing plaza, putting in its place stately marble buildings (akin to those in D.C.) and green space. To minimize the burden on the city and the agencies who need to continue to function, I'd relocate as many as possible in existing structures. For the buildings placed farther afield, connect them with a functional train/trolly/subway system.
... said N on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:29 PM | link
I'd like to makeover the NEW YORK STATE EXECUTIVE MANSION into something much for fun! Andy is not using it right? How about a summer camp for South End teens? There's a pool and tennis courts, right?
... said Ron on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:30 PM | link
The abandoned building near Philly Bar and Grill in Latham always looked appealing to me for a bar/restaurant. And it's in a good location.
... said Kristin on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:30 PM | link
Proctors Theater in Troy-turn it into a movie theater!
... said Meg on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:31 PM | link
Livingston Ave Bridge. Ped/Bike friendly. So that people can cross the river easily.
... said ethan on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:32 PM | link
I'd like the whole City of Troy so I could rescue all the neglected buildings which haven't been "adopted" yet by people like Vic & Heather. I'd fix the houses & sell them to people to live in & stabilize commercial buildings so entrepreneurs could afford to open new businesses and I'd make sure we had a downtown grocery store EVERYBODY can afford to shop in and a department store like the old Stanley's where you can buy all the stuff we used to get at Kmart before it closed. And Proctor's and....
... said Pamela on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:33 PM | link
Clifton Park would be remade an actual park.
... said Big 'Vic' Proton on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:33 PM | link
With a wave of my wand I would convert the long-abandoned white building in Saratoga Springs, across from the public library. It would be re-purposed as a venue for live music, hopefully in the mid-range size to offer some competition to Upstate Concert Hall that isn't in a strip mall inconvenient to anything.
... said Jeff D on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:34 PM | link
I'd like to see the old Co-OP in downtown Troy renovated and turned into an awesome (smaller version of) place like the new Honest-Weight. It would be great to have a little co-op downtown.
... said KS on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:37 PM | link
Proctor's in Troy, restore to original form and spark a Vaudeville rebirth that the hipsters will love.
... said Brian on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:40 PM | link
The Edison Plaza building next to the new Wolff's in Schenectady would make a great hotel.
... said E on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:42 PM | link
I would love to renovate any of the gorgeous old buildings in downtown Albany, or the warehouse district, and turn it into a concert venue. We are desperately lacking a good concert venue that can hold a large number of people in the city of Albany.
... said Alicia on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:45 PM | link
Central Warehouse!
This huge building would make a terrific place for rental kitchens and cheap/free incubator office business space. Top it with solar panels for daytime energy - it is heavily insulated - and toss in some wind turbines for additional nighttime energy.
It could also house an Local Market for small local manufacturers and craftspersons whose products do not quite fit the farmers Market niche.
Add Art spaces like the Shirt Factory in Glens Falls and this massive eyesore could be transformed into a dynamic and beloved destination.
We would need to install new piping, though. The old copper piping has mysteriously vanished....
... said Tess on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:48 PM | link
The old refrigeration plant in the Warehouse District off of 787 is a major eyesore. The building is huge and you could do so many things with it but personally I would love to turn it into a brewery company. Make local grown beer, hold brewery tours, as well as a restaurant on site.
... said Ilana S. on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:50 PM | link
Someone just actually started making over the building I have stared down every time I drove by - there was an old diner on the hill of Congress St in Troy, as you head passed RPI's campus. It was silver and shiny and probably a great place for a diner! Now it is green... Which I am not sure how I feel about... I love Troy and the things being done downtown but would love to see some revitalization elsewhere in the city!
... said Kaitlyn CM on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:55 PM | link
I would love to have someone make the Arnoff Moving and Storage building on Broadway into a great retail/restaurant space (similar to Chelsea Market in NYC). The marketing can revolve around the old RCA dog ("Nipper"). Rooftop restaurant/bar that centers around him too.
... said Carrie on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:57 PM | link
I would save the old Wellington Hotel and save it from the nightmare of a convention center.
... said RMH on Mar 24, 2015 at 1:59 PM | link
most of north pearl street!
... said Jeff on Mar 24, 2015 at 2:00 PM | link
I would choose to save the old Roman Catholic Seminary near HVCC on rt 4. It is a beautiful building, and the idea to tear it town for student housing is a travesty.
... said Jessica R W on Mar 24, 2015 at 2:05 PM | link
Old refrigeration building please - into an indoor theme park with roller coaster??
... said Lola on Mar 24, 2015 at 2:07 PM | link
I'd like to see the old oil facility (now some other kind of industrial site) that is next to the Menands Bridge, at the base if Morrison Ave, redeveloped as green space with river access.
... said Jud Marte on Mar 24, 2015 at 2:08 PM | link
I would redo the large cold storage building on 787, I think some mixed use, condos, businesses, manufacturing, etc would be awesome.
... said Tom on Mar 24, 2015 at 2:11 PM | link
I'm not sure of the name of it but I'd love to see the long yellow building on Erie Boulevard in Schenectady turned into a year round green market.
... said Laura P on Mar 24, 2015 at 2:12 PM | link
What's the chance of taking the L-Ken's sign, move it down to Central Avenue's car dealership neighborhood, and put it (along with a new fish fry restaurant) across the street from Bob & Ron's Fish Fry and create a nice little "Drive-In-Tersection" of drive-in comfort food?
... said Chuck Miller on Mar 24, 2015 at 2:16 PM | link
The Central Warehouse (cold storage building everyone always winces at off 787) would make a great space for a mixed-use development. Urban lofts on the top several floors, surrounded by a green space, then on the ground floors include shops and museums. That eyesore simply has to go.
... said Jack C on Mar 24, 2015 at 2:19 PM | link
Make the Burden Ironworks in Troy into a great indoor music venue! Troy needs a cool music venue quite badly!
... said Trojan Morse on Mar 24, 2015 at 2:22 PM | link
I would make over the old Montgomery Ward's building- it has so many possibilities!
... said MargieC on Mar 24, 2015 at 2:22 PM | link
I'd love to renovate and reopen the adult movie theater in Troy as a brewvie theater. Downtown Troy totally needs a movie theater and every movie theater needs an attached brewery. This is a fact. I'm thinking a blend of films similar to what the Spectrum hosts. And a nanobrewery, supplemented with other great, local brews from Brown's, Rare Form, Albany Pump Station and Nine Pin. This thing would be huge!
... said Adam C on Mar 24, 2015 at 2:24 PM | link
I agree with the many comments about the Freezer/Cooler storage warehouse in downtown Albany. That building would make an excellent mixed-use property.
... said Julie on Mar 24, 2015 at 2:26 PM | link
I would love to see the Lakehouse in Washington Park renovated so that actual built-in stage could be used. The rest of the space could be used more often as a community/art space.
... said Vivian on Mar 24, 2015 at 2:35 PM | link
Probably the entire Empire State Plaza. While I don't dislike the fact tha we have good samples of 1970s architecture, which add to the architectural diversity of Albany, the whole thing went a bit overboard. And, of course, with that I would also demolish the 787 spaghetti and put a large avenue in its place (that could actually happen one day).
... said Joe A on Mar 24, 2015 at 2:47 PM | link
I'd turn the Trojan Hotel into a funky B&B. And Hail and Huzzah to all suggestions to reclaim the CINEMA ART THEATER for revival films.
... said AN on Mar 24, 2015 at 2:52 PM | link
South Troy Waterfront
... said Michael Bellack on Mar 24, 2015 at 2:59 PM | link
I can envision the former Union Inn in Schenectady as a(nother) bar with a pool table.
... said Adam on Mar 24, 2015 at 2:59 PM | link
I think the Central Warehouse should be converted into a multi-level laser tag/paintball arena! You don't need windows and you could leave much of the debris to ensure that desolate, post-apocalyptic feel!
... said Jay on Mar 24, 2015 at 3:00 PM | link
I'd turn [insert generic building] into [retro apartments] with a [vegan bar] and [movie theater/music venue] in the basement that only plays movies/music you've never heard of and serves food/drinks made out of the trendiest plants.
... said g on Mar 24, 2015 at 3:12 PM | link
I think the Washington Ave. Armory could use a little fixing up. It's a great location and it has such potential to be an awesome music venue/ event center in Albany.
... said Kate on Mar 24, 2015 at 3:12 PM | link
As much as I love the new bars and restaurants that have been popping up all over downtown Troy the past few years, I would love something to do other than eat and drink (although those are great things, too)! I think the old Proctor's would make a fabulous independent movie theater.
... said Ellie on Mar 24, 2015 at 3:28 PM | link
I'd make-over the K.W.Savory Redi-Foods shop on James Street; everybody loves the sign, so let's bring back the automat for the downtown worker's dining options!
... said Graceful J on Mar 24, 2015 at 3:33 PM | link
The plaza and all of it's Rockefeller-esque architecture. It was "allegedly" inspired by palaces at Verseille, but I'm pretty sure that got lost in translation.
... said Cassie on Mar 24, 2015 at 3:36 PM | link
The long, long vacant storefront on Lark by Crisan -- I dream of an Ethiopian restaurant there. Apart from that, just seeing more of those vacant downtown buildings occupied would be fab -- a full-scale gym, some useful shops, offices ... Repurposing (or demolishing) that cold-storage building that burned for days a few years back would also be a great improvement.
... said mer on Mar 24, 2015 at 3:38 PM | link
The old YMCA on Washington Ave! I know it's being used for something different now but I would love to have a good gym within walking distance of Center Square . . .
... said Sarah on Mar 24, 2015 at 3:43 PM | link
So many buildings in Troy I would love to see rehabbed, the architecture is amazing in this city.
I would love to see that old cinema revamped and turned into a Spectrum theaters type of situation. Troy needs a cute little independent movie theater.
Then I would really never leave.
... said SaraA on Mar 24, 2015 at 3:44 PM | link
2 buildings I'd like to see repurposed:
1. Central Warehouse downtown Albany
2. First Prize Center - Albany, near Everett Rd.
Make them into business space or residential - something!
... said Dave R. on Mar 24, 2015 at 3:46 PM | link
The disastrous layout of corning preserve > 787 > rail tracks > downtown Albany. I would make 787 tunnel under the city and create waterfront residential / commercial properties.
... said Brian on Mar 24, 2015 at 3:46 PM | link
I'd like to take one of the buildings in downtown Troy and convert the various floors into a yoga / spin studio, an art gallery and a rooftop bar for the summer.
... said Susan on Mar 24, 2015 at 3:49 PM | link
All of the horrible, decaying industrial structures along the South Troy waterfront.
... said Andy on Mar 24, 2015 at 3:55 PM | link
That Lakehouse in Washington Park - more like it once was? Paddle boats maybe? And it's been mentioned too, but the Armory as a venue for all the great shows that shouldn't have to play our area by way of Clifton Park.
... said Laura M. on Mar 24, 2015 at 3:57 PM | link
Oh, I love this question. These are the things that I dream of being able to do in Troy.
1. The old Proctor's in Troy: it was once a beautiful stage, but I think it's grand location to be a movie theater once again. Yes, there are offices in there now, but I'm sure the auditorium's got to be there somewhere. It'd be wonderful for second-run films (focusing on family-friendly fare, and the classics) and educational films/documentaries (sponsored by RPI, Sage, and other local educational institutions). There's so little to do for children and teenagers in Troy, I'd love to have a place that caters largely to their entertainment for once, while still capturing the history of the building and the neighbourhood.
2. Not very historic, but: The failed co-op/grocery store should be an Aldi's. Okay, it's a chain, but Aldi's is the right price range for most people living in Troy without means of transportation, and has enough variety and access to slightly-higher-end goods that those looking for something a little more classy could also find something nice. Aldi's is the kind of store that encourages buying just enough to carry home, which is perfect for a walking neighbourhood, and the business model is much less complicated than a co-op.
3. I'd love to see the Catholic church near Washington Park reopened, if not as a church/multifaith building, then as a community center offering classes and various services for the entire local community. And there could be an indoor climbing area/playground for kids to take advantage of the height of the sanctuary. There are so many kids in the Little Italy/South Troy/Washington Park area, and most of them just run around in parking lots, and I really wish they had a better place to play.
... said sara on Mar 24, 2015 at 4:12 PM | link
Riverfront Park in Troy- I'd dig up that awful white concrete, fix the seating area so that it's a halfshell, plant actual trees that will grow, fix the sprinklers, put in a playground, and make sub-park for all of the monuments.
Hopefully then maybe the city and its residents (myself included) would actually want to use it.
... said CMaxby on Mar 24, 2015 at 4:13 PM | link
I would restore The South End Tavern in Troy to its former glory. I'd try to keep the over-sized booths and old fashioned bar but restore everything else to attempt to replicate the look when it first opened. A menu overhaul would also probably be in order to make it a destination due to its location (although retaining some of the old favorites).
... said Matt on Mar 24, 2015 at 4:19 PM | link
My dream remake would be for Albany's riverfront! Clean, accessible, and built up.
... said julie on Mar 24, 2015 at 4:31 PM | link
Turn any building in the Albany warehouse district into a medium-sized music venue (or get the Armory to book better things, I guess). Somebody, please! I can't stand see another great artist like St Vincent forced to play in a strip mall with a nightmarish stage/pit layout and horrible sound.
Also Central Warehouse IKEA gets my fantasy vote.
... said Paul on Mar 24, 2015 at 4:31 PM | link
I would rehab the beautiful old Church on Green St and John St as a performance arts space. It's a shame the condition it's in.
... said Adam on Mar 24, 2015 at 4:40 PM | link
The old American Theatre in Troy. It would make a nice small/ dedicated music/ movie venue, which Troy seriously lacks.
... said Chris on Mar 24, 2015 at 5:02 PM | link
The lakehouse in Washington Park could be a very interesting project.
... said tjs on Mar 24, 2015 at 5:04 PM | link
There is an old, abandoned gas station on Broadway in Downtown Albany just before Quackenbush Square.
It would be stellar for a developer and restaurateur with vision to reinstall a vintage garage overhang and (non-working) pump, renovate the outside into outdoor garden seating and turn the physical space into a laid-back restaurant a la The Garage Bar in Louisville, KY
http://www.garageonmarket.com/
Craft beers and comfort food should be served.
... said TheFortOrange on Mar 24, 2015 at 5:06 PM | link
There was an old movie theater in Rensselaer that I always thought would make a great, you know, movie theater, though the building is too far gone at this point.
So second option, any closed storefront in the area as a Shades of Green level vegetarian restaurant.
... said Shaun on Mar 24, 2015 at 5:14 PM | link
There are so many old buildings in Albany's Warehouse district. I can't pick just one, there are so many options: apartments, restaurants, gardening for city residents, indoor parks for children, a gym, tear the buildings down and build a dog park....
... said JLD on Mar 24, 2015 at 5:22 PM | link
The armory in albany. It should be redone and made into an indoor farmers market.
... said Becky on Mar 24, 2015 at 5:28 PM | link
There's a former bakery at the Quail and Woodlawn intersection. I'd love it to become a nice little coffee shop. That neighborhood is really growing and the one place it is missing is a place for a good cup of coffee.
... said Katie on Mar 24, 2015 at 5:31 PM | link
I agree about the Armory. The fact that the building isn't even being used as a music venue at this point is unfortunate. It'd be nice to see performing arts activity grow there the way the Woodside Church evolved into the CAC.
Otherwise I'd say my terrifically historic 19th century apartment building.
... said El on Mar 24, 2015 at 5:35 PM | link
I would like to restore a beautiful vacant residential building on State Street in Albany. The building has lovely stained glass and bay windows. There are many like this in Albany that need our love and attention.
... said Amanda on Mar 24, 2015 at 5:42 PM | link
Armory. Make it a year-around farmer's market.
... said Ben on Mar 24, 2015 at 5:56 PM | link
So thrilled that so many buildings are being fixed up. How about St. John's Church of God on Herkimer St. In Albany. Would make great condos!
... said Christine on Mar 24, 2015 at 6:33 PM | link
The old Grossman's Discount Hardware building at 1410 Erie Boulevard in Schenectady. I would strip it down to the frame and re-fit it as a glassed-in conservatory, with exotic tropical plants, orchids, and palms, a cafe and a swimming pool. A tropical oasis in Schenectady!
... said Tanya T. on Mar 24, 2015 at 6:45 PM | link
Id love to see the huge concrete building "Central Warehouse" in downtown albany turned into a indoor waterpark. Id also of course like that same water park to kick kids out after 9pm and have adults only section.
... said Mark on Mar 24, 2015 at 6:54 PM | link
Nth-ing a rehab for the Armory!
... said E. on Mar 24, 2015 at 7:06 PM | link
With my magic wand, I'd bring mature trees back to Lark Street. It has never been the same since they were replaced.
... said Joe on Mar 24, 2015 at 7:57 PM | link
The old Albany High on Western & N. Lake into apartments.
... said greg on Mar 24, 2015 at 7:59 PM | link
I'd turn that old Central Market into a Wegman's. hahahahaha, just kidding.
I'd turn the old Proctor's theater in Troy into an Alamo Draft House. Independent films and specialty film showings (Big Lebowski quote-along, for example) with good food and drink delivered right to your seat.
and the talkers/texters are quickly removed from the theater.
... said capgirl on Mar 24, 2015 at 8:03 PM | link
Bury 787 and integrate the waterfront into the city.
... said Megan m on Mar 24, 2015 at 8:38 PM | link
All the old factories along the Hudson River in Troy by Old Brick Furniture. It has so much potential to be used for a waterfront area.
... said dt on Mar 24, 2015 at 8:46 PM | link
I'd tear down the fortress like walls around the plaza, get rid of some of the marble and stone, put in big planter and shade trees. I'd add some benches in the shade, turn the big reflecting pool into a kiddie pool in summer and a big skating rink in winter with pickup hockey games so I can play on my lunch.
... said Kate on Mar 24, 2015 at 8:47 PM | link
Tobin's First Prize:
Multi-phase plan
convert inside to small artisan shops with space for manufacturing/workshops as well. Make it, sell it in the same space.
childrens spaces - messy art, playrooms, low-cost early learning centers. some sort of co-op where parents can trade services for instructions.
Large kitchen for Pop-Up restaurants- have an idea for a brunch place you want to test on Saturdays only - rent the kitchen and the dining space. Or want to test out your all pasties all the time dream? rent every Friday for 6 months. When not in use can be used for not-for-profits cooking for festivals etc.
semi-permanent food truck court. potential to have it move inside in winter??
space for music shows-family friendly but not barney....
I have it all worked out....now just need to see if it's workable in real life!!
... said Kathy T on Mar 24, 2015 at 9:29 PM | link
The New Scotland Avenue Armory- I want it to be an outstandingly elegant ballroom AND roller skating rink. There would be a stage for an orchestra, and a theater pipe organ.
... said Eric Scheirer Stott on Mar 24, 2015 at 9:36 PM | link
I'd like to see the old Jillian's on N Pearl become a marketplace for small food businesses and other purveyors of goods a la the North Market in Columbus, OH.
... said Elisabeth on Mar 24, 2015 at 9:50 PM | link
First Prize Center: Remade into a sleek hotel with snazzy and comfortable lobby, gorgeous grounds with fruit trees and berries galore, restaurants with delicious clean local food, spa, salon, gym, children's activities, you name it, etc. But here's the kicker: it would be open only to low-income individuals and families for free. Everything would be free. Everyone deserves First Prize sometimes.
... said nan on Mar 24, 2015 at 9:52 PM | link
Get rid of the Atrium in Troy. It has no business in that area.
... said Tooter on Mar 24, 2015 at 9:53 PM | link
Return the south mall to livable city blocks.
... said Rich on Mar 24, 2015 at 10:21 PM | link
Here's one that hasn't been mentioned yet: I'd like to see people licking in the gorgeous old Tudors on Holland Ave. in Albany that have been boarded up for many years.
... said Ellen on Mar 24, 2015 at 10:40 PM | link
I would turn the armory on washington avenue into a indoor marketplace for local farms and artists.
... said ab on Mar 25, 2015 at 12:17 AM | link
Central Warehouse - the Cold Storage building.
While we are at it - let's put 787 underground so that you could stroll right outside of the building over to the waterfront.
I love the cold storage Building. It is a blank slate, just waiting for something amazing. A true diamond in the rough - built like a tank. The sky is the limit as long as funds don't matter in this dream.
The cherry on top would be a rooftop bar on Central Warehouse. A cocktail with a clear view of the Hudson - sigh.
... said Dita on Mar 25, 2015 at 6:56 AM | link
Easily the Old Central Warehouse at 143 Montgomery St in Albany. Its the big ugly building you can see from 787. I would convert it to a bold mixed used building similar to the 667 Building on broadway. It would have a cool restaurant on the top floor instead of the bottom and office space on the other floors.
... said Jordan B on Mar 25, 2015 at 8:26 AM | link
I would restructure Albany's highway pattern: 1) Eliminate 787 between I-90 (north end) and Madison Avenue interchange (south end) 2) Rebuild waterfront to blend with downtown - street level avenues, green space, riverwalk, etc. 3) Add a new Thruway Exit 23B at Route 85/Harriman Campus and expand 85 to a) make it a viable bypass for travel, replacing direct 787 route between the Thruway and Troy AND b) provide better access to major hospitals for outlying areas.
... said Rachel on Mar 25, 2015 at 8:27 AM | link
I'd like to see the building that Jillian's is in (kind of historical) turned into a small market/grocery store.
... said Mike on Mar 25, 2015 at 8:36 AM | link
Not original - but it would be lovely if Central Warehouse could have something done with it. River front housing would be great but, at this point, anything would be welcome. Sigh...
... said Maeve on Mar 25, 2015 at 8:42 AM | link
How about that big refrigeration building near Huck Finns that you see from 787. That is an eyesore!
... said Erin on Mar 25, 2015 at 8:55 AM | link
There's a building on Central Avenue between Wolf Road and Schenectady, kind of by 24 Garden Bistro. Traveling west it is on the left side. It is maybe 3 stories with awesome windows and is currently being used as a car sales lot. I think it would make an terrific market/restaurant/club. I'd love to see the first floor as a casual cafe/gourmet store, the second floor as a more formal space for dining and the third floor as a cocktail bar with live musical performances.
... said Silvia Meder Lilly on Mar 25, 2015 at 8:59 AM | link
How about my house? I need an outdoor entertaining space/patio with built in grill and bar.
... said C on Mar 25, 2015 at 9:00 AM | link
I would restore the old Troy Pork Store to its former porky goodness. It looks so lonely and abandoned on the corner of 4th. Troy needs pork!
... said -R. on Mar 25, 2015 at 9:04 AM | link
St. Joseph's Church in Albany. It is beautiful but sadly being underutilized. I would be up for any viable option.
... said Shawn on Mar 25, 2015 at 9:04 AM | link
I'd take the vacant building at the corner of Madison and New Scotland rehab it and put a funky diner/nano brewery in there.
... said GJ on Mar 25, 2015 at 9:14 AM | link
I agree with everyone who wants to renovate the adult cinema in Troy next to Troy Cloth & Paper. 1 or 2 screen theater, playing movies like the ones at Madison Theater and Scotia Cinema - would love to be a part of that project myself, if I had any way to!
... said Janae on Mar 25, 2015 at 9:15 AM | link
I would love to see the Delaware and Hudson Railroad Company Building in Downtown Albany re-envisioned as a public market with mixed use above.
... said Rohan on Mar 25, 2015 at 9:29 AM | link
I would love to renovate some of the vacant buildings on North Pearl. One this that is desperately needed is a downtown grocery store which, at that point, would help bring more residential tenants.
... said Sita on Mar 25, 2015 at 9:43 AM | link
I second the suggestion to demolish the Troy Atrium and replace it with something worth of downtown Troy.
... said Pieter on Mar 25, 2015 at 9:53 AM | link
I have to echo the many comments about the central warehouse building along 787. It's so hideous. Would love to see it as a mixed use art/retail/studio space
... said Lindsay on Mar 25, 2015 at 9:55 AM | link
Albany has so many great places to visit though unfortunately I think the downtown area is quite spread out. I would like to completely make over downtown Albany so it is a more vibrant/interactive downtown area where museums, shops, restaurants, and performance centers/venues are easily accessible.
... said Jbird on Mar 25, 2015 at 9:59 AM | link
The large white warehouse near Huck Finn's. I understand there's a considerable amount of asbestos that needs to be dealt with in there, and I'm sure structurally it would take a lot of work, but there could be SO many things done with it. A Museum would be fantastic, maybe focusing on old Albany and the history of shipment and trade along the Hudson.
I also feel it could also turn into a market of sorts, not a shopping mall, but a place where local crafters and artisans could showcase their work in small shops. With an indoor farmers market as well.
... said Melissa on Mar 25, 2015 at 10:14 AM | link
The Washington Ave. armory could use some omprovement.
... said John M. on Mar 25, 2015 at 10:21 AM | link
The Gasholder Building in south Troy has been used as a performance space a few times in the past; why not make it a permanent venue?
... said Mary on Mar 25, 2015 at 10:45 AM | link
Here's one not mentioned yet: the huge historic barn on the old LeVie farm outside Voorheesvile on Rt. 85A. Save it from destruction and turn it into a year round farmers market, flea market, and performance space.
Alas, the barn will be razed soon for a suburban housing development in conjunction with the nearby country club. A real loss of the rural history of that area.
http://altamontenterprise.com/news/new-scotland/01222015/levie-barn-be-razed
... said chrisck on Mar 25, 2015 at 11:32 AM | link
The Cold Storage building off 787, for sure! Such a massive monstrosity in such an accessible part of downtown - I think it'd be great to put a mixed use building with a grocery store there - it could help bridge the Warehouse District with downtown proper.
... said KGB on Mar 25, 2015 at 11:32 AM | link
Uncle Sam Atrium in Troy needs to be redesigned into a square for farmers market shops with a courtyard in the center.
... said Rich on Mar 25, 2015 at 11:38 AM | link
South Troy waterfront is a real eyesore
... said adam on Mar 25, 2015 at 11:46 AM | link
Some of the boarded up buildings in Albany to be made into drop in parent/community centers - some volunteer based programs, activities for families, support for parents, always have coffee/ brewing/snacks, basketball hoop, etc.
... said heather on Mar 25, 2015 at 11:49 AM | link
Troy's gas house has always intrigued me. It's sometimes used for art and performance, but if it could become a facility dedicated to that purpose, that would be grand.
... said Rob on Mar 25, 2015 at 11:59 AM | link
I'd love to make over the Rotterdam Square Mall. The rebirth of old malls and strip malls is fascinating to me and with such a big space there is a lot of potential.
... said Jenn on Mar 25, 2015 at 12:04 PM | link
Bring back The Larkin!
... said jcb on Mar 25, 2015 at 12:22 PM | link
How about turning the Nipper building into an animal shelter?!
... said Alisa on Mar 25, 2015 at 12:30 PM | link
I'm happy to see that the Broadway/Warehouse District revitalization is now creeping its way into Menands where there are tons of great old warehouses worth putting money and time into. Turning the old Albany International into apartments is definitely a step in the right direction, but there are plenty of other unique and historical buildings down that way to continue this trend with.
... said rae on Mar 25, 2015 at 12:42 PM | link
Marvin-Neitzel Building on River in Troy
... said spencer on Mar 25, 2015 at 12:46 PM | link
While there are plenty of historical buildings that would make for great restaurants, retail shops, movie theaters, etc. - I'd rather see some of our rundown neighborhoods get the overhaul they so desperately need.
I think a lot of people in our community miss out on great attractions within these neighborhoods because they are surrounded by rows of boarded up/dilapidated homes.
... said brit on Mar 25, 2015 at 12:50 PM | link
I think Lark st needs a big change, turn empty storefronts into cool unique shops/restaurants/bars and maybe get rid of some of the existing businesses. It would be nice to have one central location where people can go to walk around/shop/eat/drink and its right next to the park.
... said Kerry on Mar 25, 2015 at 12:50 PM | link
I would redo the old refrigeration building along 787. It would be cool to make it an indoor amusement park/entertainment center.
... said Debi on Mar 25, 2015 at 12:54 PM | link
The Empire State Plaza. I want to put transparent glass on the bottom of the reflecting pools, so the underground concourse is filled with dappled sunlight, and set up restauraunts and bars around the plaza so there's a night-life possible there.
... said Andy on Mar 25, 2015 at 1:03 PM | link
I would re-do the Empire State Plaza, turn it inside out so it would be connected to the community rather than be a container that is sealed off unless arriving by car to the parking garage.
... said Diana on Mar 25, 2015 at 1:36 PM | link
UAlbany's Campus!! Make it more welcoming with more greenspace and less concrete--as it currently feels like a fallout shelter from the Fifties!
... said Rae on Mar 25, 2015 at 1:52 PM | link
First Prize Center is a good one..but so is the K-Mart that is sitting empty on Troy Schenectady Road....huge amount of wasted land and space....
... said llcwine on Mar 25, 2015 at 1:52 PM | link
I would like someone to convert the abandoned bank on Delaware near the Spectrum into a funky restaurant or shop.
... said Nick on Mar 25, 2015 at 2:57 PM | link
I know it's already being renovated, but I would have loved to have gotten my hands on the Proctors building in Troy. The one thing Troy needs more than anything else now is a movie theater! The relationship between New World and the Spectrum could have been very much the same between Peck's arcade and Proctors just a few blocks over. Here's to hoping we find a space for an art house theater downtown!
... said Caitlin on Mar 25, 2015 at 3:19 PM | link
First Prize Center into an indoor gathering space--rock walls, a diner, maybe a museum, local stores.
... said Melissa on Mar 25, 2015 at 3:47 PM | link
I would love to see the Nipper building put to good use! Albany has such great buildings -- let's use them and not tear them down for a box store.
... said Jennifer on Mar 25, 2015 at 3:48 PM | link
All the abandoned storefronts on Madison Ave east of lark street and within the Mansion District. Would love to see them replaced with fruit and veggie stands, coffee shops, shoe repair, dry cleaners, nail salons, etc. I want to do my errands by walking around my neighborhood.
... said Julie on Mar 25, 2015 at 3:54 PM | link
I'd like to give the Madison Theatre a makeover - new upholstery, bigger screens, and a parking lot!
... said Sabrina on Mar 25, 2015 at 4:06 PM | link
I'd love to see some of the old buildings in Troy turned into apartments! We need more places in walking distance of the downtown area.
... said Adam on Mar 25, 2015 at 4:07 PM | link
Any (or all) of the vacant historical Victorian-style row houses along Clinton Ave. Beautiful architecture in neglect but with loads of promise.
... said Josh K. on Mar 25, 2015 at 4:10 PM | link
The Latham Circle Mall site into a not-Walmart.
... said Liz on Mar 25, 2015 at 4:11 PM | link
140 State Street in Albany. It's basically just a facade with no building behind it, almost like a Hollywood set. I'd want to turn it into a restaurant/bar with an atrium space built in. You could even do a restaurant/B&B combo with rooms overlooking a green space in the center, complete with rooftop bar. One large tree rising through the center of the building would be a nice finishing touch.
... said Mike on Mar 25, 2015 at 4:23 PM | link
I would make over all the empty storefronts in downtown Albany! The area has a lot of potential and new businesses would make downtown much more alive than it is now.
... said Jen on Mar 25, 2015 at 4:31 PM | link
Any of the empty building in downtown Troy!
... said Kelly on Mar 25, 2015 at 4:57 PM | link
The old buildings on Peebles Island in Waterford. I would love to turn them into a Rec./environmental center for family's.
... said Steph on Mar 25, 2015 at 5:00 PM | link
Ooh, I love this game! I do this all the time!
Years ago I had a vision for the old Trailways/Greyhound station on Broadway to remake it into a bar/club. The space under the overhang would be outdoor overflow during warm weather.
I also feel like the buildings to the south of the bus station, shuttered due to the now moved convention center, have tons of potential.
I also wish our riverside was useful and accessible, like in cities such as Savannah and Portland, Oregon. And one of my favorite city features is when a road is blocked for pedestrians only, like in Burlington and Miami Beach, for example.
... said Susan on Mar 25, 2015 at 5:27 PM | link