SCHENECTADY, NY – March 29, 2010 – Schenectady County’s Metroplex Development Authority today joined with the Upper Union Street Business Improvement District (BID) to announce plans to move forward with four façade improvement projects this year.   The four projects all involve major upgrades to key storefronts on Upper Union Street.

“Redevelopment continues to take place throughout Schenectady County.  These four façade projects, coupled with last year’s major streetscape improvements, show how small business and the County’s economic development team are working together.” said Susan E. Savage, Chairwoman of the Schenectady County Legislature.

“The unique partnership with Schenectady County Metroplex and the property owners in the Upper Union Street BID makes it possible for business owners to enhance their façades through this successful matching funds program,” said Guy Sementilli, BID Chair and himself a Façade Improvement Grant recipient at Scotti’s Restaurant, 1730 Union St.  “The BID appreciates all Metroplex has done during the past three rounds of façade funding and we are looking forward to the improvements to come from round four. The continued improvements will make Upper Union Street a more attractive destination for years to come.”

The four projects to get underway this year include:

• 1611-1613 Union Street — The Salamack’s Building is one of the largest buildings on Upper Union Street. Renovating the façade will have a very positive impact on the shopping district.
• 1729 Union Street — Phillips Hardware recently acquired Passano Paints. Phillips Hardware will open its seventh hardware store at this location creating a new retail draw in the Upper Union Street corridor.
• 1604 Union Street — Head to Tail Pet Wellness Center is a very successful retailer on Upper Union Street offering all kinds of products and services to pet owners.  The new façade and expansion will help the pet spa and wellness center continue to grow and serve the needs of pet owners from around the Capital Region.
• 1599 Union Street – the façade of the former Ricciardi’s Deli building will be improved as part of a plan to bring a new tenant to this location.

Ray Gillen, Chair of Metroplex and Commissioner of Economic Development and Planning for Schenectady County said, “The Upper Union Street BID is a great example of a business district that is continuously improving itself and the results are outstanding. We are pleased to work closely with such a dedicated group of businesses.”

Metroplex will invest $122,000 in grant funding for these four projects that will be matched on at least a one to one basis by business and property owners. For this round of funding, Metroplex expects matching commitments of more than $500,000.

Earlier this month, Metroplex announced that nine facades in downtown Schenectady will be improved this year.

For more information, contact the Upper Union Street BID at www.upperunionbid.com.