early 1900s, it was a rifle range for the military at one time and it was deeded to the city to always be a park,” explains Stammel. With a $600,000 grant, the city plans to transform it into a nature preserve with trails connecting to schools and downtown. “It’s just a beautiful place that we intend to hook up with picnic tables and things of that nature,” he adds. Tourism initiatives further elevate Rensselaer’s appeal. The Ambassador Program leverages the Amtrak station’s foot traffic, educating visitors about local history, from the birthplace of aspirin to the site of professional baseball’s first grand slam. Future connectivity projects, like the redesigned Livingston Avenue Bridge, will feature pedestrian and bike access to Albany, while waterfront trails aim to link Rensselaer to Troy. Together, these investments ensure growth is both sustainable and livable. PRIORITIES FOR THE NEXT 24 MONTHS Rensselaer’s momentum shows no signs of slowing as the city enters a critical phase of its transformation. The coming two years will see intensified focus on downtown activation, with streetscaping projects, sidewalk improvements, and ADA compliance measures creating a more inviting urban core. Near the Amtrak station, plans for transit-oriented development take shape.“A supermarket is something we’d like to see there, as well as other commercial activity, some residential and some office space in that area,” reveals Hulihan. Business attraction remains paramount, with a unique opportunity emerging from neighboring Albany’s interstate redesign. “We want to be set up ready to capture those businesses that may be being pushed out by Albany, and bring them to the city 8 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 06
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