Schenectady, N.Y. – The Schenectady County Metroplex Development Authority, Norstar Development and SUNY Schenectady today announced plans to renovate the gym and office area in the former YMCA at 13 State Street.

“We are pleased to work with Metroplex and SUNY Schenectady to adapt the former gym and office space at the former Y for use by the college.  Together with the community, we are proud of our efforts to preserve this historic building,” said Richard Higgins, Norstar Development’s CEO.

Norstar has already completed renovation of over 90,000 square feet of space at 13 State Street for 61 senior apartments.  The final 8,000 square feet of work in the building includes the gym and office space with a separate entrance on State Street.  Norstar has hired Bonacio Construction of Saratoga to complete the renovations.

“SUNY Schenectady is located so close to 13 State Street that leasing this wonderful space so close to the College was an easy decision,” said Dr. Steady Moono, President, SUNY Schenectady. 

The College will use the office space for faculty and staff offices and a conference room. The renovated gym will be used by art and music programs for practice, performance and exhibit space.  The college also plans to use the facility for public events.

“We appreciate Norstar’s great work in restoring 13 State Street,” said Ray Gillen, Metroplex Chair. “We wanted to restore the gym and have it serve as another attraction on lower State Street. We also appreciate Norstar providing a below market lease rate making the space very affordable for SUNY Schenectady.” 

Metroplex is providing a $14,000 grant toward total project to renovate the gym and office of almost $600,000.   Norstar has already invested over $18 million at 13 State Street.