November 4, 2003

Former Ramada to house students; athletic fields to be added

Union College has purchased the Ramada Inn at 450 Nott Street to be renovated for student housing and has purchase contracts for two adjoining parcels on which it plans to construct soccer fields for college and community use, it was announced today by Union College President Roger H. Hull. The College will spend $15 million on the project, bringing Union's total investment in the neighborhood west of campus to $26 million.

 "The acquisition of the Ramada Inn and the adjoining land is a key element in our commitment to our students and our continued support and investment in Schenectady," said Hull. "It addresses the needs of the college and at the same time contributes to the revitalization of Schenectady. Just as I believe we all, as individuals, have an obligation to contribute to the community of which we are a part, I also feel strongly that institutions, whether for-profit or not-for-profit like Union, have an obligation to play a role in the revitalization of this city. The future of Schenectady and Union College are inextricably linked, and I feel this project enhances both the city and the College."

Another housing option for students

This project comes at a key time, as the College embarks on major changes in its social and residential system for students. A new House System, designed to better integrate social, residential and intellectual life on campus, is well underway. In fact, the first building, a renovated South College dorm, opened this week. The addition of this building will further expand the variety of residential life experiences Union offers its students at a time when more students want to live in college-owned housing. Students will be able to choose from several housing options, including traditional residence halls, theme houses and fraternities and sororities.

The Union-Schenectady Initiative (USI), a broad-based plan to revitalize and stimulate home ownership in the College Park neighborhood, also created new residential opportunities for students. The USI was introduced in 1998, and to date, the college has invested about $11 million in that project.

"The Union-Schenectady Initiative was a major first step," Hull said. "It has contributed significantly to the transformation of the College Park neighborhood – and added an exciting new dimension to student and residential life. The investment in the Ramada property and the adjoining land continues that important effort, and we look forward to creating an even better campus and a strengthened community."

Bonds to be sold through City IDA

The College plans to sell $15 million in bonds through the Schenectady Industrial Development Authority for the new project. Among the renovations will be replacement and reconstruction of the roof, repairing and repainting the building's exterior, installation of new and updated heat and air conditioning systems, increased fire protection, construction of a new entryway, creation of study areas and meeting rooms, creation of a fitness center by filling in the swimming pool, and general interior renovations such as painting, new carpeting and new window treatments.

The College has invited five firms to submit designs and budgets for the project, with a completion date for the renovation of fall 2004. Plans call for the creation of 110 single rooms and 60 doubles to house 230 students. The construction of a lighted and security-patrolled walkway from Huron Street, adjacent to the main campus, to the new residence hall is also planned.

The athletic field complex will bring the college and community together on what used to be vacant industrial land. Plans call for the construction of artificial turf soccer fields for use by college teams. When college is not in session, the fields will be available for community use. A $450,000 federal appropriation from Senators Charles Schumer and Hillary Clinton and Congressman Michael McNulty will help fund part of the playing fields project.

Remediation will return land to safe use

The property, once the site of the American Locomotive Company, will require environmental remediation. The parcel contains some residual levels of aged petroleum products that were used in the manufacturing of locomotives, tanks and other vehicles. The college has been working with state officials to ensure that the property is properly remediated and safe for future use. Staff from the Oil Spill Fund, which is managed by the State Comptroller and oversees the State's oil spill program, negotiated protections for both Union College and the environment.      

"The college has worked closely with the Department of Environmental Conservation and the state Comptroller's Office to ensure that all procedures for remediation have been followed," Hull said. "We hope

this project is a model for the effective use of brownfields and that it will be replicated elsewhere in this city and state."

State Comptroller Alan G. Hevesi, whose participation has been essential to the College's plan for the Ramada Inn property, said, "Brownfields redevelopment is a critical component for revitalizing communities and creating jobs and economic development throughout New York State. We are pleased to have facilitated this important effort by Union in Schenectady, and I want to commend President Hull for his vision and dedication."

DEC Commissioner Erin M. Crotty said, "Governor Pataki is committed to the revitalization of urban centers across New York State, and by participating in the State's cleanup programs, communities can enjoy remarkable environmental and economic benefits. This cleanup agreement is an important initiative for Union College and the City of Schenectady and illustrates the value of partnerships in reaping rewards for our environment and our communities."

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