Capital District Times

The City of Albany has been awarded grants from Save America's Treasures and the Environmental Protection Fund to undertake significant repair and replacement work on Albany City Hall. The project includes replacing terra cotta tile roofing, salvaging and reinstalling roof tiles in select locations, resetting, repairing, resurfacing, and replacing select stone units on the façade and masonry-built roofs. Additionally, sheet metal roofing, flashing, trim will be replaced; clock faces restored; lighting protection system components at the tower replaced; and some insulation work conducted.

The city anticipates initiating the project this summer. A contractor has been selected through a competitive bidding process and will mobilize in the coming weeks. The project is expected to be completed within 24 to 36 months of construction kick-off. This will result in the temporary closure of Corning Park behind City Hall during construction and some temporary parking and sidewalk closures around City Hall. These closures will be posted in the vicinity of impacted areas.

Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan stated, “In 1885, American Architect and Building News named Albany City Hall one of 'The Best Ten Buildings in the United States.' Since then, Albany City Hall has been a beacon of pride for our residents and visitors alike. Thanks to the funding from the National Parks Service and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, we are able to restore the roof and exterior to ensure this building is ready to serve our city for many more centuries to come.”

Albany’s City Hall holds significant architectural importance. During his lifetime, architect Henry Hobson Richardson's design was widely acknowledged as one of his best works. Richardson is recognized internationally for his innovation in creating uniquely American architecture. Following an 1880 fire that destroyed its predecessor—an 1830s Greek Revival building by prominent Albany architect Philip Hooker—Richardson designed what became known as Richardsonian Romanesque building completed in 1883.

Due to material shortages caused by World War I involvement, remodeling efforts were not completed until 1920 with only minor changes made since then. Since its completion in 1919, piecemeal repairs have been performed on City Hall's roof which now requires comprehensive restoration due to defective detailing and improper material selection evident on its original structure.

Mayor Sheehan emphasized that restoring these historical elements ensures continued serviceability while preserving architectural heritage for future generations.