News Flash

ALBANY, NY – The City of Albany’s Pre-Application portal utilized to award $25 million for transformative, highly-impactful investments of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds received by the City of Albany is open for submissions at www.AlbanyForAll.com. To give applicants more time to prepare their proposals, the first pre-applications will not be reviewed until at least March 1, 2022.

There will be an ARPA Funding information session webinar held on Friday, February 18, 2022, at 3 pm. Participants can join the webinar here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82217407152. 

During this session, in addition to providing an overview of the application process, City representatives will address questions received via albanyforall@albanyny.gov in an effort to answer all ARPA funding application questions. Participants will also have the option to ask questions in real time via the Q&A feature during the webinar.

Earlier this month, Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan posted a webinar to assist potential applicants in the pre-application process and answers any questions. Applicants may also direct questions to AlbanyForAll@albanyny.gov.   

Pre-Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis beginning March 1, 2022. After a thorough review for compliance and impact, pre-applicants will receive feedback and then, if selected, be required to submit a full application. This process will ensure applicants effectively and efficiently utilize their time and resources as they seek American Rescue Plan funding while ensuring the City of Albany and those selected for funding remain in full compliance with American Rescue Plan Act requirements and all federal regulations.

Applications will be evaluated by a team of local leaders, including members of the City’s ARPA Leadership Team comprised of Mayor Kathy Sheehan, City Treasurer Darius Shahinfar, Common Council President Corey Ellis, Common Council Pro Tempore Kelly Kimbrough, Common Council Majority Leader Ginnie Farrell, Commissioner of Administrative Services Rachel McEneny, and Corporation Counsel Marisa Franchini, Esq.

Based on the input provided to the City of Albany COVID Recovery Task Force, $25 million will be available for funding under the American Rescue Plan, including: 

• Supporting the Public Health Response - $4 million
• Education/Workforce/Human Services - $7 million
• Housing/Transportation/Community Revitalization - $8 million
• Small Business Support - $3 million
• Recovery of the Tourism, Travel, Arts and Hospitality - $3 million

Mayor Sheehan also issued a call for volunteers to help grade and interview applicants. Anyone interested in applying should visit www.AlbanyForAll.com to sign up.

Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan said, “I want to encourage Albany’s businesses, not-for-profit organizations, residents, and City Departments to participate in the ARPA Funding information session webinar on Friday, February 18, 2022, at 3pm and submit your pre-application. The COVID Recovery Task Force has recommended using this funding to make highly impactful, transformative investments. I am looking forward to working closely with our residents, businesses, and community-based organizations to make sure these resources not only address the challenges encountered by our residents but ensure our city remains an Albany for all.”

Task Force Co-Chairs Michael Whalen and Jahkeen Hoke said, “We have a unique opportunity to finally level the playing field for members of underrepresented populations in our city and make a significant and long-lasting difference in their lives. Through smart, focused, and well-planned investments, we have the best chance of reaching and helping the highest number of city residents, and we encourage everyone to help identify potential opportunities for this historic funding.”

About the COVID Recovery Task Force:

To help replace lost revenues, cover COVID-related expenses, and reverse the economic impacts of this pandemic, the City of Albany was allocated approximately $80.7 million as part of President Biden’s American Rescue Plan. On March 12, 2021, Mayor Sheehan announced the creation of a COVID Recovery Task Force to ensure the City of Albany equitably and strategically maximizes the resources available to our residents, businesses, and community organizations thanks to the American Rescue Plan to restart Albany and build back better. The Mayor appointed Mike Whalen, Administrative Vice President of M&T Bank, and Jahkeen Hoke, Chief Executive Officer of Business For Good Foundation, as Co-Chairs of the City’s COVID Recovery Task Force. 

The Task Force launched a robust engagement plan that included two public surveys garnering more than 1,000 responses, more than 60 direct meetings with community members and stakeholder groups, and 17 task force and working group meetings. The result is a 76-page report that provides a framework for recovery and strongly recommends funding a limited number of highly impactful programs that can produce profound results. 

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The City of Albany hosts the 76th Annual Albany Tulip Festival presented by KeyBank on Saturday, May 11 and Sunday, May 12 in Washington Park. 

The Tulip Festival is Albany’s signature spring event featuring annual traditions rooted in the City’s rich Dutch heritage. The event includes over one hundred artisans selling their handmade crafts, a fine arts show, delicious food trucks, the KidZone family fun destination, three world-class live entertainment stages, a brand new wellness stage with free dance classes, Yogafest and more than 100,000 tulips can be admired in the historic Washington Park, the 81-acre “crown jewel” of the City. 

Since Mayor Erastus Corning II read the first Tulip Festival Proclamation on May 14, 1949, the Mother’s Day weekend celebration has grown into one of the Northeast’s biggest and most beloved yearly events. Featuring area vendors, businesses, community organizations and original local artists on every stage, the Tulip Festival continues to honor Albany’s four centuries of history while looking ahead to its future. As always, this event is free and open to the public. 

For more information, call 518.434.2032, visit www.albanyevents.org or follow @AlbanyNYevents on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram. #TulipFest2024

Read on for the full schedule of events or view online at www.albanyevents.org

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2024

HOT YOGA SPOT’S “YOGAFEST” 

Washington Park Parade Grounds

9a.m. - 10a.m.

FREE - RESERVE HERE 

TULIP QUEEN CORONATION CEREMONY

Washington Park Lakehouse Stage

Nominations accepted through April 19th. NOMINATE HERE! 

11:30a.m. –The Mendelssohn Club (Lakehouse Stage) 

A local institution for over a century, this acclaimed male chorus is the longest continuously performing arts group in the Capital Region. 

11:45a.m. – Tulip Queen Procession (Begins at formal Tulip Beds by Moses Statue)

The 2023 Tulip Queen Olivia Owens, Mayor Kathy Sheehan and the Dutch Settlers Society lead the 2024 Tulip Queen finalists to the Lakehouse Stage.

12:00p.m. - Tulip Queen Coronation (Lakehouse Stage)

Mayor Sheehan and MC Chad O’Hara of B95.5 crown the 76th Albany Tulip Queen in this traditional highlight of Tulip Fest weekend.

PARKALBANY’S MAIN STAGE 

Washington Park Parade Grounds

Media Sponsor: 102.7 WEQX

1:30p.m. – OF THE ATLAS: “Catskill NY based songwriter, guitarist and vocalist Jay Woodruff has led alternative rock band Of The Atlas through a colorful range of styles and incarnations. Started initially as a solo act by the enthusiastic and longtime member of the thriving and diverse regional underground rock community, Woodruff fleshed the group out into a powerful blend of introspective indie, vibrant art rock and infectious power pop. Now joined by Ethan Klee and Kenny Rowe”.

3:00p.m. – PRINCE DADDY & THE HYENA: “Prince Daddy & the Hyena is an American punk rock band from Albany, New York, formed in 2014. They have released three full-length albums and four extended plays”. 

4:30p.m. – THE FRONT BOTTOMS: When you turn on a record from The Front Bottoms, you hear the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of two lifelong friends who stare down personal tragedy and the madness of a world gone haywire by simply playing a little louder together. The New Jersey natives went from playing in the woods to performing in high school bands. After Brian finished college, The Front Bottoms officially formed. Brian’s mom gifted the boys 12 hours of recording time for Christmas, resulting in their 2011 self-titled independent debut. A whirlwind of prolific output and countless gigs followed. The Front Bottoms reached a critical peak with 2017’s Going Grey. It received praise from the likes of The FADER, Stereogum, VICE, A.V. Club, and more. Along the way, the band performed on Late Night with Seth Meyers and NPR’s “Tiny Desk,” graced the stages of Coachella, Austin City Limits, and Bonnaroo, and toured with the likes of Blink-182, Manchester Orchestra, and many more. Not to mention, the group has tallied nearly 100 million streams, sold over 500,000 album equivalents, and launched the annual holiday festival Champagne Jam, which expands year over year at an unprecedented rate.

WEXT’S 518 STAGE 

Washington Park Lakehouse Stage

Media Sponsor: Exit 97.7/106.1

1:00p.m. – SIDE B : “Four-piece alternative rock band from Upstate New York consisting of drummer Dylan Travison, bassist Eric Mitchell, guitarist AJ Horton, and vocalist Ian Justino. Our debut release “The Low Budget Romance EP” out now!”

2:15p.m. – SOFIA CORTS: “Sofia Corts is a 18 year-old singer-songwriter from the Albany, New York area who is on the cusp of a national breakout. Totally self-taught on guitar and keyboards, Sofia's songwriting effortlessly blends genres, pop, R&B, a hint of jazz, while generating infectious, memorable melodic hooks”.

3:30p.m – CAMTRON5000: “Camtron5000, rapper from Albany NY, has been creating alternative hip-hop music since 2016. He makes music that he hopes will break the stereotypes of what it means to be a rapper. Channeling a dynamic yet playful energy with his skilled lyricism, and sporting a logo crafted from his own gapped smile, Camtron5000 is a musical personality unlike any other!”

4:45p.m. – THE INSOLENT WILLIES: “The Insolent Willies are an upstate New York-based roots-rock band known for their hip-shaking mix of quirky, clever original songs and unpredictable interpretations of tunes from all over the musical map. The band consists of Bill Ackerbauer (acoustic guitar, harmonica, mandolin, vocals), Frank DeVer Pullen (bass, banjo, vocals), Paul Gavry (accordion, fiddle, vocals) and Evan Gavry (guitars, percussion, vocals).”

SUNDAY, MAY 12, 2024 

25th ANNUAL CAPITAL REGION’S BEST MOM

Washington Park Lakehouse Stage

11:00a.m. – 12:00p.m

NOMINATE HERE

B95.5’s Chad O’Hara and local officials recognize the Capital Region’s most outstanding moms. Presented by St. Peter’s Health Partners, Times Union & B95.5. Nominations open until April 8th. 

PARKALBANY’S MAIN STAGE

Washington Park Parade Grounds 

Media Sponsor: 99.5 THE RIVER 

1:00p.m. – OFF THE RECORD: “Off The Record Trio" is the Capital District’s only 1960’s rock and roll lounge band. Awarded a music “Eddie" for Best Capital District Party Cover Band two years in a row, the trio plays 60’s vintage tunes as well as some hidden nuggets with a modern twist. It is led by the dynamic and engaging Joanna Palladino on vocals with local favorite Geo on guitar / vocals along with Bob Resnick splashing rock and roll rhythms on a minimalist drum set.”

2:30p.m. – FUNK EVOLUTION : “Formed in 2010, Funk Evolution has been bringing top-shelf entertainment to the Northeast for 14 years. Funk Evolution features a who's who of musicians from New York and Massachusetts. Funk Evolution is best known for its high-energy delivery and unique arrangements; epic mashups of classic R&B with modern Top 40, 15 minute mega-medleys and their legendary 'Sax Battle' featuring original 14 year member, Justin Godlewski on Alto saxophone. From Classic Soul, Disco and 80s Anthems to Celtic Rock, Modern Country, Jam Band, Pop and Hip Hop; Funk Evolution is one of the most diverse entertainment groups in the region and has been recognized internationally as one of the top entertainment groups in the nation.”

4:30p.m. – NEW YORK PLAYERS: “New York Players are New York's Dance Party Experts, an entertainment powerhouse with a focus on corporate and private events, nightclubs, concerts and festivals… Keeping the Dance Floor Packed ALL NIGHT LONG!!”

WEXT’S 518 STAGE 

Washington Park Lakehouse Stage

Media Sponsor: Exit 97.7/106.1

1:00p.m. – GIRL LOVE: “Girl Love is the Albany based, folk project of award- winning poet and songwriter, Laura Beth Johnson. Laura is known for her dark blend of story and soul. She was awarded the Lucy Monro Brooker Poetry Prize from the University of Indianapolis in 2017. In 2019, Laura was awarded a Songwriting Scholarship by Image Magazine. She received a Poetry Scholarship from Hudson Valley Writers Guild in 2022. In 2023, Girl Love was nominated for two Eddies. Laura’s poetry has been published in journals such as Post Mortem Press, Lady Blue, Indie Earth, Etchings Press, and Hare’s Paw. Laura’s music strives to affirm queer holiness. You can find Girl Love on all streaming platforms. Laura is joined at this year’s Tulip Fest by her brother and sister-in-law, James and Katie Johnson.”

2:15p.m. – THE E-BLOCK: “The E-Block is a 5-piece indie R&B band based in Upstate New York, blending the acoustic warmth of singer-songwriter music with an ice-cold rhythm section informed by modern R&B. With a deep bag of influences and free-flowing style, The E-Block has earned a reputation as a unique live act in the Capital Region scene.”

3:30p.m. – REESE FULMER & THE CARRIAGE HOUSE BAND: “Reese Fulmer & The Carriage House Band challenge the traditional relationship of a songwriter and his band, with a fluidly rotating cast of top-notch players and a flair for experimentation that combine for a unique and mesmerizing live performance. Add to that a keen lyricism that explores the human experience with a patient and poetic touch and you have the Capital Region's answer to the indie-folk/alt-Americana boundary pushed forward by Wilco and Iron & Wine.”

4:45p.m. – OOBLECK: “Oobleck, founded in 2008, is an original, analog funk band out of the Capital Region of NY. Known regionally for inciting dance parties wherever they land, they boast a big, in your face sound inspired by New Orleans street music. It’s a melee of horns, super heavy drums and bass and your favorite type of chunky guitar riffing that leaves your bum shaking and your face grinning.”

KIDZONE PRESENTED BY PRICE CHOPPER / MARKET 32 

SATURDAY & SUNDAY CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES 

Enjoy pony rides, a rock-climbing wall, bounce house, live music, games and more fun for the whole family!

PRICE CHOPPER KIDZONE STAGE

Continuous free entertainment for all ages, all weekend long!

1:00p.m., 4:00p.m. – ANDY “THE MUSIC MAN”: a well-versed children's musician renowned for delighting audiences of all ages through sing-a-longs, dancing, play-acting and storytelling. 

2:00p.m. – PARK PLAYHOUSE: Washington Park’s beloved theater group offers exciting sneak previews of their 2024 musical productions The Marvelous Wonderettes, Legally Blonde & Finding Nemo Jr. 

2:45p.m., 4:45p.m. – MELVIN THE MAGNIFICENT: Melvin is a professional magician played by Joe Goode, his shows are action packed, interactive, and sure to bring huge laughs from the entire audience. 

3:30p.m., 5:30p.m. – RUTH PELHAM: Ruth Pelham of the Music Mobile is a Capital Region musical treasure, exuberantly promoting her mission of building peaceful communities through original songs for all ages.

KISS 102.3’S WELLNESS STAGE 

Free wellness classes for all ages, all weekend long! 

Media Sponsor: KISS 102.3

12:00p.m. – SISTER’S OF THE RISING MOON – Belly Dancing Class

1:00p.m. – HOT YOGA SPOT - Kid’s Yoga Class

2:00p.m.- SIMPLY BALLROOM – Salsa & Bachata Dance Class

3:00p.m. – ARTPARTNERS – Hip-Hop Dance Class 

4:00p.m. – MARCUS ROGERS DANCE COMPANY MRDC – Cardio Dance Class 

5:00p.m. – MOVE FITNESS BY LENNY – Zumba Dance Class 

TULIP WEEK EVENTS

TULIP TOURS at Washington Park Tulip Beds 

Wednesday May 1: 10am and 5pm 

Thursday May 2: 11am and 5pm 

Friday May 3: 1pm and 6pm 

Wednesday May 8: 11am and 6pm 

Thursday May 9: 10am and 3pm

Learn more about the vast variety of flowers planted for Tulip Fest with City Gardener Jena DiTonno. Free. Spaces are limited and reservations are required; call 518.434.2032 to reserve your place. (Weather permitting).

FRIDAY, MAY 10th

CARILLON CONCERT

11:30 a.m. – noon, outside Albany City Hall

Amy Heebner performs a special Tulip Festival musical program on Albany City Hall’s historic 1927 carillon, a unique instrument consisting of 49 bells that range in size from 27 to 11,200 pounds.

STREET SCRUBBING

12p.m., State & Lodge Streets

The traditional Dutch ceremony of scrubbing the streets clean before a big celebration has served as the official kickoff to Tulip Festival weekend for 76 years. This unique Albany event will include Mayor Kathy Sheehan’s Tulip Festival opening proclamation and a procession from City Hall featuring Albany High School students in Dutch Costume, the Dutch Settlers Society, bagpiper Michele Lyons, 2023 Tulip Queen and Court, along with 2024 Tulip Queen finalists.

TULIP FESTIVAL LUNCHEON 

12:30 p.m., The Blake Annex 

Immediately following the Street Scrubbing, the Tulip Festival Luncheon is a farewell and thank you to 2023 Albany Tulip Queen Olivia Owens and her Court. Proceeds from the Tulip Festival Luncheon will benefit the Tulip Court’s educational programs via the Capital City Fund, a component fund of United Way of the Greater Capital Region. Tickets are required contact: email tulipluncheon@gmail.com to purchase. 

SATURDAY, MAY 11th 

ROYAL TULIP BALL 

6:30p.m., Albany Capital Center

An elegant evening of dining and dancing to honor the new Tulip Queen & Court. Proceeds benefit the Capital City Fund. Tickets are required; to purchase, visit HERE or email tulipball@albanyny.gov

TULIP BULB AND DIG SALE

May 18th: Tulip Dig

Begins 9 a.m. at the Moses Fountain

The City will provide tools, but please bring a garden fork (NOT a shovel) if you have one. Bulbs are $10 for a bag of 30 while supplies last. The tulip dig is limited strictly to designated beds, under the direction of park staff and volunteers and ends promptly at 12:00 p.m.

May 19th: Tulip Sale

Begins 9 a.m. at the Lakehouse

The remaining bulbs are first come / first serve and are $10 for a bag of 30.The sale is open while supplies last. More info can be found at HERE

PARKING & SHUTTLES

FREE CDTA shuttle runs continuously to Washington Park from Eagle Street Garage (at Eagle & Madison Ave) & Elk Street Parking Lot (at Elk & Hawk Streets) throughout the festival. 

Handicap parking available at Albany Medical Center lot at Robin & Morris Streets. A free, accessible CDTA shuttle runs to and from the Madison & New Scotland entrance to the park throughout the festival.

Find more parking options at www.parkalbany.com. 

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

This event is produced with the help of hundreds of volunteers. Sign up to be a part of this great experience by visiting www.albanyevents.org/volunteer or calling 518.434.5416.

Presented by generous event sponsors: 

Keybank, Price Chopper & Market 32, CDTA, ParkAlbany, DeCrescente, Heineken, New Belgium, Wild Bill’s Soda, Barefoot Wine, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Yankee Home, Renewal by Andersen, Polish Korner, Instant Bath Fitter, Energy Catalyst Technologies, DGS, Alpin Haus, Verizon, The Hilton Garden Inn, Hot Yoga Spot, American Cancer Society, Tri-City Valleycats, Albany Patroons, Albany Firebirds, Mirth Films, Satch Sales, Park Playhouse, Recovery Sports Grill, Discover Albany, In Our Own Voices, Pride Center of Capital Region, 

Media Partners: 

WEQX, IHeart Radio, 99.5 The River, Kiss 102.3, Exit 97.7/106.1, B95.5, Albany.com, NYS Music, Spot 518, Times Union, Radio Radio X, WVCR 88.3 The Saint, 

Special ground rules in effect: 

No alcohol outside of designated beer garden area

No glass containers

No animals or pets (excluding ADA-defined service animals)

No recording of performances

All City of Albany parks are now tobacco and marijuana-free.

ALBANY, NY – Mayor Kathy Sheehan joined Business for Good Co-Founder Ed Mitzen, Department of Recreation Commissioner Jonathan Jones, Assemblymember Patricia Fahy, Assemblymember John McDonald, City Treasurer Darius Shahinfar, Common Council Majority Leader Ginnie Farrell, Albany City Schools Superintendent Joe Hochreiter, Albany Housing Authority Executive Director Chiquita D’Arbeau, State and City officials, and community members on Monday, December 4 to launch the next phase of building a New Lincoln Park Pool: removing the current pool.

Beginning Monday, December 4, the City of Albany’s contractor is moving quickly to remove the existing pool structure and ready the site for a Spring 2024 construction kick-off. The City’s goal continues to be opening the new Lincoln Park Pool on July 4, 2025.

The new Lincoln Park Pool will include:

• Zero-Entry Pool (10,000 sq. ft.) with In-Water Spray Features
• 10-Lane ½ Size Olympic Lap Pool (5,620 sq. ft.)
• Splash Pad (6,000 sq. ft.)
• Water Slide
• Restrooms and Shade Pavilions
• Playground (10,000 sq. ft.)

No more than 15 trees are slated for removal as part of the building of a new Lincoln Park Pool. The City of Albany has committed to replacing every tree that is removed as part of this project.

To learn more about the history of Lincoln Park and the Pool, the City’s community engagement efforts as it selected a design for the new Lincoln Park Pool, and the construction timeline, please visit https://albanyny.gov/2239/Lincoln-Park-Pool

Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan said, “The new Lincoln Park Pool is yet another transformative investment in the South End. Since taking office, my administration has invested more than $65 million in our South End neighborhood. We are preventing raw sewage from percolating in Upper Lincoln Park while also cleaning the Hudson River. We renovated the Lincoln Park Basketball Courts, we revitalized the Lincoln Park Bowl, we built the South End Connector, and we are helping the Albany Housing Authority rebuild Steamboat Square. With the new Lincoln Park Pool, my administration continues to send a message to our South End neighbors that we are working tirelessly to reverse decades of historic disinvestment and we will continue to deliver on the promises we make to this community.”

Business for Good Co-Founder Ed Mitzen said, “This is an incredible day for the City of Albany. Business for Good firmly believes the children who live in the South End deserve to have the same type of summer facilities and recreational opportunities the children in the suburbs have, and this will become a world-class destination when it’s complete. We are so proud to be part of this project.”

City of Albany Recreation Commissioner Jonathan Jones said, “Today, at the current Lincoln Park Pool, we are standing in the past and we are visualizing the future. During my time as Commissioner, this pool has been both a challenge and fulfilling because we have been able to work together for the benefit of the community to keep it open and design a brand-new pool. The entire Department of Recreation cannot wait for this pool to be complete so we can usher in a new era of swimming in the City of Albany.”

New York State Assemblymember Patricia Fahy said, “One of the things we learned most during COVID was that we need to get children out from behind the computers and more active outdoors, and this project is going to do just that. Thank you to Mayor Sheehan and all who had this vision for years to build a new Pool the entire City could be proud of.”

New York State Assemblymember John McDonald, III said, “The amount of investment across Lincoln Park is incredible – and what’s more important is that each investment, including the vision for the new Lincoln Park Pool, was directed by community collaboration. There is a tremendous amount of pride in this community, and we are proud to be part of improving this park and this neighborhood.” 

Joann Morton, President, South End Neighborhood Association said, “The Lincoln Park Pool has a very special place in the heart of the Morton family. The Pool was not only used as a refuge to cool off on a hot, sunny day, but also a place for socialization and enjoyment. On behalf of the South End Neighborhood Association, I want to thank everyone who helped make today possible. I am very much looking forward to the opening of the new Lincoln Park Pool.”

Albany City Schools Superintendent Joe Hochreiter said, “In my six months on the job, I have learned quickly the entire community goes out of their way to make investments in safe and reliable activities for our students. Our students deserve the same opportunities as our suburban neighbors, and I am proud to work in a community that shares those values.”

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(Albany, NY) Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026 – Last night, in her first State of the City Address since taking office, Mayor Dr. Dorcey L. Applyrs set the tone that she is listening to City of Albany residents and business owners. Bearing the snow and cold temperatures, a crowd of over 200 local business owners, elected officials, community leaders, and residents gathered at the new Albany West Community Center to hear the Mayor’s address. As the Mayor went through a summary of the City Departments, highlighting key programs, takeaways, and data, her presentation featured the voices of City workers and business owners.

Applause erupted from the audience over a series of new initiatives, including the Keep Albany Clean proposal for increased trash cans around the City. The audience also showed their support during a shoutout to Albany’s newly built recreational center, Albany West, where last night's presentation was held. Mayor Applyrs spoke to a host of partnerships between the City and the community, such as Join Albany, a City initiative to engage people in civil service work. Mayor Applyrs also highlighted the Social Enterprise and Training Center, or SEAT, for their partnership with Hattie’s Restaurant, who catered the event.

The Mayor’s outlook for 2026 struck a promising and optimistic tone, expressing her appreciation for Governor Hochul's investments in Albany’s waterfront through the replacement of Livingston Avenue Bridge and the re-imagining of I-787. “It was great to hear from people leaving the space about their excitement for what’s to come” said Active Albany Committee Member Hettie Barnhill, “It felt like forward motion.”

Mayor Applyrs concluded her presentation with an overview of Albany’s nightlife scene, giving the audience a glimpse of her plan for Evening Activations in Albany. “This City is a 24/7 ecosystem,” Mayor Dr. Dorcey L. Applyrs reiterated. “And with recommendations from our Advisory Council on Nightlife Economy, we will ensure that residents and visitors alike can experience this City's liveliness”

(Albany, NY) Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026 – The City of Albany has concluded its first Snow Emergency in six years. Regular alternate parking rules will be back in effect as of 8pm, Jan 29. The official Snow Emergency Response might be concluded, but the work is far from over for the Department of General Services. They will continue to work through the weekend and into next week on their regular schedule, clearing sidewalks and crosswalks throughout the City.

DGS’s work on the first night of the Snow Emergency was delayed significantly following mass parking noncompliance in some of Albany’s busiest neighborhoods, such as Center Square and Mansion Area. These neighborhoods rely heavily on street parking, not only by residents, but by out-of-town visitors who might not have been aware that the City was in its Snow Emergency response. Mayor Applyrs, DGS, APD, Traffic Engineering, and Albany Parking Authority had multiple meetings throughout the weekend to discuss tackling problem areas in the City, check in on DGS’s status, and strategize how to ensure better compliance going forward, such as bringing back physical messaging signs in 33 locations throughout the City.

Parking compliance is a critical aspect of the City’s efforts to remove snow and make the City accessible again for pedestrians, CDTA riders, and vehicles alike. The Albany Police Department works in coordination with DGS to ensure that cars are off the streets so removal crews can make their way through. The City of Albany towed 302 cars in the two nights of the Snow Emergency response. Snow-buried cars that owners did not clean or move to off-street parking further slowed down the towing and snow removal process. “It’s about civic responsibility and doing the right thing,” said Albany Police Chief Brendan Cox, “When we band together as a community to alert our neighbors, share important information, or lend a shovel to someone in need of assistance, we can all aid the City in its shared goal of snow removal. The level of parking noncompliance we saw on the first night only frustrates residents and impacts our DGS workers and officers, who work around the clock to serve our City in times of emergency.”

Residents can sign up for APD Nixle alerts about Snow Emergencies and other important information by going to APD’s page on the City’s website and entering their phone number, email, and zip code. APD will continue to coordinate with DGS over the weekend and into next week as they target problem areas that still need to be addressed. The City asks that residents please adhere to posted parking rules, as APD will be ticketing cars that are parked illegally and potentially towing vehicles that are in the way of DGS snow removal. APD will be putting Emergency No Parking restrictions on a series of locations to assist with removal. Residents can sign up for Nixle alerts for the full list.

DGS will continue to have inspectors out with snow removal machines for walkways and crosswalks in the coming days. The Department focuses on snow removal for walkways in the daytime, to prioritize safety from ice and poor visibility for workers and residents alike. Since Sunday, DGS crews have been working in mandatory 12-hour shifts to clear the City as fast as possible. In two days, they removed over 28,000 tons of snow. This was in addition to the salting of roads, as freezing temperatures caused some streets to slick on the second night. “Poor compliance significantly impacted us on the first night of the City’s Snow Emergency, which delays our whole process,” said DGS Commissioner Sergio Panunzio, “We will continue to clear off snow every day until our crews are done. We have a strong workforce and a dedicated team, working 24/7 to keep the City clear and safe, but we can’t be everywhere at once.” DGS had a successful second night of its Snow Emergency response, removing 253 total truck loads of snow.

Mayor Applyrs commended the hard work and partnership of APD and DGS to get the City’s streets as cleared as possible during the Snow Emergency. “Our DGS workers are the unsung heroes of a clean, accessible City,” said Mayor Dr. Dorcey L. Applyrs, “They have been working around the clock to ensure the City is accessible for all residents. These are real people that go out and do this work with the aid of complex machines that must be driven, maintained, and monitored. We owe them a debt of gratitude.”

The City of Albany commends the vast number of residents who showed up for their City and neighbors by shoveling sidewalks, clearing off cars, and reminding people of temporary parking rules. It is through civic collaboration, across City departments and residents, that shared success can be realized in times of emergency.

***

(Albany, NY)  Monday, Jan. 26, 2026 – The City of Albany is declaring a Snow Emergency that will begin on Tuesday, Jan. 27th, at 8:00pm. Starting then, for 48 hours, all normal parking rules and regulations will be temporarily suspended. Alternate street parking for Monday, Jan. 26th will still be in effect until the Snow Emergency at 8:00pm, Tuesday begins. Designated emergency lots information can be found below. Lots will open by 8pm tonight. 

• During the first 24 hours of the Snow Emergency starting at 8:00pm on Tuesday, all vehicles must be parked on the even numbered side of the street. 

• Beginning the SECOND DAY OF SNOW EMERGENCY, Jan. 28th, all vehicles must be parked on the odd numbered side of the street for the next 24-hour period. 

If you are parked on the wrong side of the street during the snow emergency, your vehicle will be ticketed and may be towed. 

After the second 24-hour period, please stay tuned for further announcements. For Snow Emergency information, call 518-476-7669 or visit the City of Albany’s website at albanyny.gov. You can also find information on the official Facebook and Instagram pages of Mayor Dr. Dorcey L. Applyrs. 

IMPORTANT CONTACTS: 

The Snow Emergency Hotline is 518-476-SNOW (7669); The City of Albany’s Non-Emergency Line is 518-438-4000.  

To report power outages and determine area repair schedules, call National Grid at 1-800-867-5222; in an emergency, call 911. 

If your vehicle has been towed, call Albany Police Department at 518-438-4000 for information on how to retrieve your vehicle.  

Designated Snow Emergency Lots will open at 8pm on Monday, Jan. 26th: 

Arbor Hill 

• Parking Area, Arbor Hill Softball Field (N. Lark St.) 

• 230 Colonie St. (Playground Lot) 

Pine Hills 

• Ridgefield Park (on Partridge St.) 

• Woodlawn Park Little League 

• Waterson Park (Westland Hills) Enter on Colvin Ave. or Austain Ave. 

• Washington Park (Specified roadways and parking areas) 

South End 

• Krank Park 

• Franklin St. (between Schuyler & Basset Street East Side) 

• Frisbee Ave. Parking Lot (between Second Ave. and McCarty Ave.) 

Center Square/Mansion 

• Lincoln Park (specified roadway & parking area) 

North Albany 

• Hackett Park parking lot across from N. Albany Post (Do not use N. Albany Post parking lot) 

West End 

• Bleecker Stadium (parking area & roadways) 

• Trivoli Park (opposite Judson St.) North Side of Livingston Ave. 

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ALBANY – The City of Albany, NY, is thrilled to announce that our community is one of the selected 24 cities to participate in the Cities Forward program, a collaborative initiative between the U.S. Department of State, ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability, Resilient Cities Catalyst, and the Institute of the Americas. Launched at the Cities Summit of the Americas, this program is dedicated to assisting Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) and U.S. cities in creating sustainable, inclusive, and resilient futures through project consultation, co-design, and knowledge sharing.

With a strong response of 129 applications for just 24 openings from cities across the Americas, we are proud to participate in this program focused on urban sustainability, resilience, and inclusion.  We are also pleased to share our experiences and solutions with other cities during the Cities Forward Academy at the final phase of the program in 2025.

We are excited to connect with the other selected cities: 

•    Ambato, Ecuador + Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

•    Cali, Colombia + Baltimore, Maryland

•    Cartagena, Colombia + Denver, Colorado

•    Fortaleza, Brazil + Hawai`i County, Hawai`i

•    Freeport, Bahamas + Coral Springs, Florida

•    Guatemala City, Guatemala + Dallas, Texas

•    Hermosillo, México + Dubuque, Iowa

•    Manaus, Brazil + Albany, New York

•    Mérida, México + Austin & Travis County, Texas

•    Montego Bay, Jamaica + Hoboken, New Jersey

•    Renca, Chile + Evanston, Illinois

•    Rosario, Argentina + Chattanooga, Tennessee

Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan said, "Albany leads in our commitment to sustainability and being part of the Cities Forward cohort is another testament to our ongoing efforts to combatting climate change and improving our residents' quality of life in every neighborhood. We have converted all 10,000 streetlights to LEDs, 100% of the electricity purchased by city operations is generated from renewable sources, and we have committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2050, but we know there is even more we can do. The Cities Forward program is connecting us with municipalities and organizations from across the globe who are helping us update our Climate Action Plan and learn about how we can be even more intentional as we plant more trees, install more EV chargers, expand our residential composting program, replace our lead services, and continue prioritizing our climate justice communities." 

"We are thrilled to collaborate with these cities and tap into their ingenuity and creativity," stated Angie Fyfe, ICLEI USA Executive Director. "By bringing together local expertise and global perspectives, we can craft innovative, inclusive sustainable solutions that will have a lasting impact across the world.”

The City of Albany looks forward to working closely with Manaus, Brazil, to build equitable and inclusive economic opportunities, strengthen sustainability, and promote a healthy environment for all. For more information, visit https://icleiusa.org/cities-forward

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About ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability

ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability (ICLEI) is the first and largest global network of more than 2,500 local and regional governments devoted to solving the world's most intractable sustainability challenges. The worldwide network is active in 125+ countries, focused on influencing sustainability policies and driving local action across five key pathways: low emissions, resilient, equitable, people-centered, nature-based, and circular development.

About Resilient Cities Catalyst

Resilient Cities Catalyst is a nonprofit, founded by members of the 100 Resilient Cities (100RC) leadership team in 2019 to drive catalytic change to help partners solve their most pressing challenges. Building on the pioneering legacy of 100RC, and in partnership with a community of urban resilience actors, RCC is helping cities build the capacities and partnerships needed to understand, prioritize and concretely address their risks and chronic stresses as they pursue their strategic goals or recover from a crisis.

About Institute of the Americas

The Institute of the Americas (IOA) is a non-partisan, independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to be a catalyst for promoting economic development and integration, emphasizing the role of the private sector, as a means to improve the economic and social well-being of the people of the Americas. Throughout our 40-year history, the IOA has convened events of regional importance in an effort to support our mission of promoting better understanding and thought-leadership, surrounding critical issues in energy, climate change and economic development. 

Contact: David Galin 

ALBANY, NY – The City of Albany American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Leadership Team is excited to announce 35 projects have been selected to receive grants from $25 million of federal relief dollars provided to Albany under President Biden’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

Three quarters of the funding – approximately $18 million – is being awarded for projects that will create affordable housing, affordable homeownership, community spaces and direct services in Albany’s neighborhoods of highest need. The remainder will assist small businesses and the City’s hard-hit arts and tourism organizations with the ultimate goal of creating new jobs, and to projects that support workforce development.

The City of Albany received nearly 150 proposals for funding that were reviewed by five Results Teams comprised of a cross-section of residents and community leaders. Recommendations from the Results Teams were considered by the City’s ARPA Leadership Team when they selected 63 proposals to move to Phase II that also included a more detailed application process.

The City of Albany ARPA Leadership Team, comprised of Mayor Kathy Sheehan, City Treasurer Darius Shahinfar, Common Council President Corey Ellis, Common Council Pro Tempore Kelly Kimbrough, Common Council Majority Leader Ginnie Farrell, Commissioner of Administrative Services Rachel McEneny, and Corporation Counsel Marisa Franchini, Esq., then reviewed the 63 Phase II applications, conducted interviews, and are proud to make the following funding recommendations.

The City of Albany ARPA Leadership Team said “This pandemic has impacted every corner of our city in a variety of different ways, but one thing has been consistent – the COVID Recovery Task Force demanded we fund highly impactful, transformative proposals using this once-in-a-generation funding. During this process, we heard from organizations and communities, including many that have not traditionally partnered with local government. The nearly 150 applicants underwent an extremely rigorous and competitive application process, and we are very proud to engage with them now as partners in accelerating Albany’s recovery.”

US Senator Chuck Schumer said, “I want to congratulate Mayor Sheehan and the members of the Leadership Team, Recovery Task Force, and Results Team for their hard work and vision. I fought hard to deliver this direct federal aid to every municipality to replace the lost revenue during the COVID pandemic, prevent layoffs, reward frontline workers, and help communities rebuild as we come out of the crisis. The layoffs were averted. Albany gave essential workers bonus pay. And now they have set the model for how a municipality should disburse aid throughout the community in an open, inclusive, and transparent manner. These projects will create affordable housing, promote business growth, and create jobs, all while making life in neighborhoods throughout the city better.”

US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, “This is your federal government at work – a $25 million investment in the great city of Albany delivered by the American Rescue Plan. I fought hard to deliver this funding directly to New Yorkers, and I want to thank Mayor Sheehan and the City of Albany ARPA Leadership Team for helping direct dollars to those who need it most as we continue to recover from the pandemic. I am confident this incredible investment will increase access to quality, accessible, affordable childcare and housing, bolster small businesses, and ensure our state capital continues to thrive.”

US Congressman Paul Tonko said, “I would like to congratulate Mayor Sheehan, the City of Albany ARPA Leadership Team, the Results Teams, and the Recovery Task Force on the culmination of their hard work selecting these worthy projects to receive funding from President Biden’s American Rescue Plan. When I cast my vote for the American Rescue Plan, direct investments in our communities like these were exactly what I had in mind. These projects will promote economic growth and recovery, build new affordable housing and community services, increase access to critical services, and create new jobs. I am proud to have pushed hard for this game-changing funding, and I am confident these projects will have a great positive impact on the city of Albany and its continuing economic recovery.”

City of Albany COVID Recovery Task Force Co-Chairs Michael Whalen and Jahkeen Hoke said, “We commend Albany’s Leadership Team for administering an open, inclusive, and transparent process that brought scores of voices to the table to help ensure we are building back better. It is our hope this $25 million in grant awards will make a lasting, transformative impact.”

The Albany Common Council is expected to vote on the slate of recommendations at their regular meeting on Monday, June 6, 2022.

President Joe Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) into law on March 11, 2021, after significant advocacy from across the nation, including by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and Congressman Paul Tonko.

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