Amsterdam, New York

The completion of the Erie Canal in 1825 was an economic boon to the city, which became an important manufacturing center, known for its textiles, pearl buttons, linseed oil, brooms, and iron goods, but mostly carpets. Two of the world’s most recognized carpet brand names – Sanford-Bigelow and Mohawk – are Amsterdam born and bred. Through the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the city was a destination for immigrants from southern and eastern Europe, who initially worked in the factories. But then the mills began to close, moving south and overseas to find cheaper labor and lower taxes. The children of the children of immigrants go off to college and do not return. Many of their parents depart also, and the population and tax base decline. Literally, the carpet is pulled out from under the city’s feet. In an attempt to draw people and business back to Amsterdam, the city and state began a program of urban renewal and arterial roadway construction, destroying much of the original fabric of downtown, though a few historic buildings and sites remain. The city’s 2003 Comprehensive Plan described a program to recognize what remains constant and what has changed and to capitalize on the city’s assets, revitalize its urban center, and attract new visitors, businesses, and residents. Many of its recommendations are now being acted on. Unfortunately, Amsterdam experienced serious flooding damage to properties at the river’s edge in the aftermath of Hurricane Irene in 2011. Recently, Business View Magazine spoke with Amsterdam’s Community & Economic Development Director, Amanda Bearcroft, and Mayor Michael Villa, about Amsterdam’s challenges and projects. “Amsterdam has come a long way in three and a half years,” notes Mayor Villa. “We’ve had great assistance from the state and we have some very exciting projects to look forward to. Currently, we’re waiting for state approval on the Chalmers site, a 300-seat banquet facility, as well as 120 working- class housing units. We are a 10-million-dollar state DRI (Downtown Revitalization Initiative) award winner for the downtown core and south- side waterfront along the Mohawk. I think that