Schenectady, N.Y.  – The Schenectady County Metroplex Development Authority today joined with the Upper Union Street Business Improvement District (BID) to announce that 1611-1613 Union Street has been purchased and that the new owner will work with Metroplex to improve the façade of the building which is one of the largest commercial buildings on Upper Union Street.  Metroplex will provide a $75,000 façade matching grant for the project.

The new owner of the building is Mr. Thomas Pai who owns the adjoining building at 1615 Union Street. Mr. Pai has successfully operated his Taekwondo Academy on Upper Union Street for 30 years.  He and his brothers also operate facilities in Glenville, Clifton Park, Rensselaer, Saratoga and Troy.

1611-1613 Union Street currently has three tenants including Michael’s Shoe Service, Save-Mor Cleaners and Players Choice Racquet Sports.  The façade project and other planned improvements to the building will create additional retail space.

Mr. Pai said, “I am very pleased to have the level of support and encouragement from Metroplex on this building that is long overdue for a new façade.”

“Schenectady County believes that our Main Streets and small businesses are so vital to the economic health of our communities,” said Schenectady County Legislator Philip Fields.  “That is why we are so proud to work with Mr. Pai and thank him for continuing to invest in Upper Union Street.”

“This is more great news for Upper Union Street which continues to thrive as a major retail corridor and key gateway to Schenectady,” said Mayor Gary McCarthy.

Ray Gillen, Chair of the Schenectady County Metroplex Development Authority said, “We welcome this additional investment by Thomas Pai in Upper Union Street. We are excited about working together to improve the façade which will be a great addition to all of the other improvements that have been completed on Upper Union Street.”

“This is tremendous news for Upper Union Street,” said Chris DiCocco, former Chairman of the Upper Union St BID.  “We have had numerous property owners take advantage of the Metroplex façade funding and it has paid dividends for the businesses, property owners and neighbors.  By adding 1611-1613 Union St to the list of façade improvements, we place a capstone to a highly visible section of the BID and continue to strengthen our future,” said DiCocco who just completed his term as BID Chairman.

In recent years, the Schenectady County Metroplex Development Authority and the City of Schenectady have funded major improvements to streets, sidewalks, curbs, trees, and lighting on Upper Union Street. Many of the commercial buildings have also received façade upgrades.