Albany abounds with historic treasures that lend our city rare value and opportunity. Our neighborhoods are full of architectural gems — buildings rich in craftsmanship, history and appeal. Unfortunately, many of these gems have been neglected for far too long and now sit on the precipice of demolition.
Too many buildings have already been lost to the bulldozer. With each swing of the wrecking ball, we forfeit not just a building, but also an important part of our history and our identity as a city. Preservationists have put themselves on the front lines between bulldozers and buildings, with an occasional victory, but have all too often witnessed the destruction of irreplaceable treasures.
The number of historic buildings at risk in Albany continues to grow, but there is hope on the horizon. Real estate trends and cultural attractions are bringing more people back into urban areas. Increasing numbers of baby boomers, Gen X'ers and millennials are seeking to make historic urban places their home. With them comes great potential for invigoration of our local economy.
A public call for businesses, services and amenities has become a common part of the downtown dialogue. A new field of entrepreneurs is re-imagining our urban landscape, restoring our historic places with vision, passion and hard work. Innovation and creativity are core principles of these new urban entrepreneurs. In Albany, warehouses, churches and town houses have all been repurposed successfully, providing a healthy and productive contribution to our city.
If we are to save our historic places, then preservationists, local government, community stakeholders and urban entrepreneurs must work hand in hand. We must as communities and neighborhoods open ourselves to bold new ideas. We have a unique opportunity to create a supportive environment for those with resources and a vision for our at-risk buildings.
For many of our neglected historic buildings, the chance of restoration is rare and, if not seized, is quickly lost. Not only is our city's history at stake, but so is its future. In Albany, perhaps more than many other places, yesterday and tomorrow are inextricably entwined, and we need to make the most of that relationship. If we choose to close our doors to those willing to invest in our historic buildings, we are not only closing a door on our past, but on a bright, sustainable future as well.
Albany has a growing reputation for producing unique craft products, as demonstrated by the new Albany Distilling Company and the Chocolate Gecko. The proposed conversion of St. Joseph's Church in the historic Ten Broeck Triangle by Ravens Head Brewery will contribute to the vitality of our city, while adding to the tax rolls and saving an important piece of our history. A responsible business operating in that space will only stand to strengthen the neighborhood, not weaken it.
Here is a chance to take the boards from the windows, let in the sunlight and open the doors to a new future for the building and its neighborhood. It would be a tragedy for Albany if this opportunity is missed.
William Brandow is president of the Historic Albany Foundation.