First the basics. The building is the former Stanley's (and Gay Building) on the corner of State and Third Streets. The project is the latest initiative by Jeffrey and Deane Pfeil, who are developers that recently found their way back to Troy. The benefits of their project are almost too plentiful to mention. But I will give it a shot anyway.
Here are some pictures of the exterior of the building. The first is a view from Barker Park. The second is from the northeast corner of State Street.
This project is one of our most important projects; if for no other reason than the next five years a concerted effort must be made by the City to bring residents back downtown. The long awaited return to our urban center by residents has already started in the last few years. But we need many more. This is a project that will show everyone that upscale living can take place in downtown Troy. And that it can be successful.
The Pfeil's describe the Conservatory as Beauty, Quality, Sophistication. The views from the Conservatory are second to none, particularly of the downtown. The inside of the building, at least the completed upper floor, is stunning. Take a look:
The apartments are outfitted with the latest amenities throughout. The kitchens are large, the open space stunning, and the bedrooms gorgeous. Quite simply, it is a beautiful place to live.
In addition to the apartments, there is underground parking. That's right, covered, and heated, parking areas for all tenants. The Pfeil's completely rehabilitated the basement of the building, including an alley entrance to make this project a go. The sidewalks surrounding the building are heated, providing an additional amenity during the winter months. It is the ultimate in downtown living.
The City helped out with the project by successfully applying for a New York Main Street Grant, half of which went to the Pfeil's as the anchor project in the grant. The additional money is intended to go to property owners in the neighborhood looking to rehab upper floors of their buildings into living spaces. It is another program aimed at bringing people back downtown 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
There are already people living in the upper floors of the Conservatory, including Wally and Jane Altes. Wally is the former head of the Albany Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce. Having Wally and Jane move here is quite a coup for the City of Troy.
For more information on the Conservatory, check out www.theconservatorytroy.com
Talk to you tomorrow!
Harry
