Schenectady, N.Y. — The Schenectady County Metroplex Development Authority today provided an update on its work to renovate 132 and 136 Broadway in downtown Schenectady.  The City of Schenectady took ownership of the two buildings from the Edison Tech Center in August. Metroplex is assisting the City to revitalize the buildings.

“The previous owners left behind a real mess. We have already removed tons of garbage and much work remains ahead of us. Our goal is to get these buildings renovated and back on the tax rolls,” said Ray Gillen, Metroplex Chair.

Metroplex has awarded contracts in recent weeks to clean out the buildings, fix the façade and conduct a review of environmental conditions. Golden Oak Property Group, LLC of Schenectady submitted the low bid of $21,000 to clean-out and empty both buildings.  Over the past several weeks, over 20 tons of obsolete electronics and appliances, garbage and debris have been hauled from the two buildings.

Ambient Environmental Inc. of Albany was hired by Metroplex to look at the environmental condition of the buildings.  This is standard due diligence done before redevelopment can occur.  The study found exposed asbestos in the basement at 132 Broadway that requires immediate repair.  The basement has been secured and work to remove the asbestos will begin immediately.

Metroplex also hired Schenectady architectural firm Stracher Roth Gilmore to review the facades of both buildings and how they could be repaired.  An artist rendering was prepared (see below).

Once the buildings are cleared of garbage and the asbestos work is completed, Metroplex will begin marketing the site to potential developers. Anyone interested in redeveloping the structures should contact Metroplex.