Despite its many challenges, Schenectady has seen an impressive increase in development activity under the leadership of Mayor Brian Stratton. Since 2004, more than $150 million has been invested in the downtown area, and the results are apparent in new commercial and retail development. Mayor Stratton has also taken the extraordinary step of launching the “Schenectady 2020” planning effort. This comprehensive planning exercise, the first in the city since 1971, includes a comprehensive citywide master plan, neighborhood plans and a comprehensive update of the city’s zoning regulations. The plan is based on several “smart growth” principles, including promoting mixed-use development, developing walkable neighborhoods and multiple transportation choices, and preserving open space.

NYLCVEF applauds these efforts. We also recommend the following steps be undertaken to build on the mayor’s laudable initiatives and further the goal of a truly sustainable Schenectady:

• Continue to improve access to the Mohawk River waterfront and develop plans to enhance the utilization of this valuable, scenic resource;
• Continue to improve the Amtrak station and develop a transit-oriented development plan to take advantage of this resource;
• Continue to work with the Capital District Transportation Authority to improve transit options and enhance the city’s connection to Albany International Airport;
• Continue to improve the pedestrian environment throughout the city;
• Continue to create bike lanes as a part of large development projects and reduce the number of projected parking spaces per project;
• Build on the partnership created with General Electric to encourage more “cleantech” and other green industries to relocate to the city; and
• Encourage the redevelopment of the city’s historic properties and communities. The city should provide direct incentives to property owners to restore and “green” historic properties and should develop resources to assist property owners with the technical aspects of “greening” their properties.

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