Attorney General James and NYSERDA Announce Groundbreaking Energy Efficiency Project in Albany's South End

 

$1.2 Million Project Will Dramatically Improve Living Conditions for Steamboat Square Families

New York Attorney General Letitia James and New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) President and Chief Executive Officer Doreen M. Harris today announced over $1.2 million in joint funding for a model energy efficiency project at Steamboat Square, an Albany Housing Authority (AHA) residential complex in Albany’s South End neighborhood. The South End is a Disadvantaged Community, a designation created by the Climate Act and defined by the Climate Justice Working Group, which means the community is comprised of predominantly low- and moderate-income households that face disparate public health, environmental pollution, and climate change impacts.

The project is a model of the cost-saving and environmental benefits associated with retrofitting large multifamily buildings with rigorous, state-of-the-art energy-saving measures. The project also includes a “greening initiative” to bring new natural spaces to the Steamboat Square community, reducing air pollution, and mitigating extreme heat.

“Far too often, low-income communities and communities of color are unfairly burdened with higher-cost, lower-comfort homes due to a lack of investment in new energy- and cost-saving technology,” said Attorney General James. “With this groundbreaking project, we are improving conditions and quality of life for Steamboat Square families. I am grateful to our partners at NYSERDA and the Albany Housing Authority for working together with my office to protect New Yorkers’ health and wellbeing.”

“The Steamboat Square project illustrates what can be done to provide energy efficient, comfortable, and healthy homes for New York families living in historically underserved communities as we diligently work to achieve Governor Hochul’s goal of two million climate-friendly homes by 2030,” said Doreen M. Harris, CEO and President, NYSERDA. “NYSERDA is proud to partner with New York Attorney General James on this endeavor and we look forward to continuing to support efforts like this to help bolster vibrant, inclusive communities throughout New York state.” 

The project is part of revitalization efforts at Steamboat 20, an 88-unit high rise building in the Steamboat Square complex. The funding will support the purchase and installation of geothermal heat pump systems and other efficiency upgrades including exterior wall and roof insulation, air sealing, and installation of thermostats and energy recovery ventilation. This work will be overseen by NYSERDA.

These upgrades are expected to provide at least 40 percent energy savings and reduce climate change pollution. At the same time, the investments at Steamboat Square will significantly improve residents’ comfort by providing each apartment with air conditioning and giving each unit control over its own temperature settings, among other benefits.

An additional $91,000 in funding will be used for urban greening measures recommended in the Department of Environmental Conservation’s (DEC) October 2019 Albany South End Community Air Quality Study, and may include planting trees and other vegetation and establishing living walls, green roofs, and vegetative barriers. These measures will improve air quality, reduce local heat islands, and improve the natural environment and resident well-being in Steamboat Square and the larger South End neighborhood. This work will be implemented by AHA.

The funding for this project is provided by NYSERDA’s Multifamily Performance Program, by National Grid’s New York State Clean Heat program, and by a 2005 settlement the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) obtained against the Ohio Edison Company. The OAG and NYSERDA have since successfully used these funds to implement a broader Green and Affordable Housing project statewide.

The project is expected to be completed by June of 2024.

“DEC is committed to improving environmental justice communities across the state and it is exciting to see this funding for Albany’s South End neighborhood,” said DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos. “The recommendations from DEC’s air quality study to coordinate improvements in community housing with air quality and greenhouse gas reduction goals were driven by science and community input, both of which will be critical in reaching our nation-leading climate justice goals. I applaud Attorney General James and NYSERDA President Harris for these investments.”

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Upcoming Events, Legislative News, Grant Opportunities, & More

(Friday) Extra, Extra Click here for this week's video: Autumn Soiree Gathers Business Leaders at Woodlawn Conservancy Visit Mott Haven Promotion Released Tour De Bronx Veteran's Luncheon: Honoring Your Service to Our Nation Legislative & Advocacy Updates Bronx Chamber of Commerce Appointed to NYC Small Business Commission One Stop Shop NYC Portal Passes City Council Unanimously Election Day, November 8th Funding Opportunities NYS SEED Program for Early-Stage Businesses Small BID Grant Program Launched Upcoming Events Save the Date, Annual Holiday Party, December 8th Member Spotlight Housing Empowerment Series with Mable Ivory and Chase Bank

AUTUMN SOIREE BRINGS NETWORKING & TOURS TO WOODLAWN CONSERVANCY

Woodlawn Conservancy opened their iconic gates to The Bronx Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, October 20 for the Autumn Soiree bringing together business leaders and elected officials for a one of a kind tour of the renowned Woodlawn Cemetery. Guest's networked and toured this historic gem in the Bronx and learned stories of its inhabitants. With delicious drinks and food provided by Havana Cafe, guest took the inaugural trolley tour of illuminated art deco funerary art showcasing the architectural splendor of one of the nation's most famous burial sites while getting to know fellow New York City business owners and elected officials. Guests enjoyed speed networking, legislative updates, and got a sneak peak at the newly released September 2022 NYS Jobs Report. Be on the look out for November's networking event and the latest news and information from your Bronx Chamber of Commerce.

Speed Networking at Woodlawn Conservancy led by Bronx Chamber President Lisa Sorin Discussing the future of business and the Bronx with Ret. Col. Joan Davis, and Amy Gordon of Visions & Monroe College

MOTT HAVEN MARKETING PLAN LAUNCHED AVENUE NYC COMMERCIAL DISTRICT NEEDS ASSESSMENT TO BE RELEASED IN WINTER 2022

In 2021, The Bronx Chamber of Commerce was award an Avenue NYC Grant from New York City Department of Small Business Services to conduct commercial revitalization work in the Mott Haven area of the South Bronx. The Avenue NYC Commercial Revitalization Grants fund community-based development organizations (CBDOs) to carry out programs targeting commercial districts in low- and moderate-income communities. The three year program includes data analysis, community revitalization projects, marketing, and community capacity building for businesses. At the end of Year 1 a Commercial District Needs Assessment was completed and provided a roadmap to address challenges and opportunities. In addition, marketing was completed to assist in positioning the area for future growth. This was completed in partnership with 394 South Bronx businesses, Story Telling Inc. and BRIC Media to capture the spirit of Mott Haven and is part of a comprehensive plan to assist this South Bronx neighborhood.

TOUR DE BRONX TAKES TO THE STREETS TOUR DE BRONX & LA CENTRAL YMCA OPENING SCHEDULED FOR OCTOBER

On Sunday, October 23 the annual Tour De Bronx will take to the streets as the largest independent group bike ride in New York State. Produced by the Bronx Council on Tourism, the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation, and the Office of the Bronx Borough President the Tour De Bronx is an in-person 25-mile ride through the best of the Borough, highlighting Bronx Greenways, Residential Neighborhoods, Historical Districts, Waterfronts, and Tourist Attractions. Virtual tours of 40-miles and 10-miles will be made available on October 24th! Please register separately for the virtual tours. For more information and maps, or to volunteer, click here.

VETERAN'S LUNCHEON: HONORING OUR HEROES NOVEMBER 10, 2022

This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave. The Bronx Chamber of Commerce continues our tradition and our duty of honoring veterans who committed their lives to protecting our nation so that we can enjoy the freedoms that we have in the United States. Please join the Board of Directors and the leadership team of the Bronx Chamber of Commerce as we celebrate the service of 50 veterans during an annual luncheon and recognition ceremony at Pasquale Rigoletto's, 2311 Arthur Avenue on Thursday, November 10, 2022. Under the Board leadership of Anthony Mormile and John Bonizio the Chamber salutes those who sacrificed so much for our communities and our country. If you are a Veteran that would like to attend, please email: events@bronxchamber.org. If you or your firm would like to sponsor the event and sustained programming for veterans please email, admin@bronxchamber.org. This event is complementary to all Veterans, but registration is required.

COFFEE & CONVERSATION LAND USE & OUR ECONOMY HON. RAFAEL SALAMANCA, JR

The Coffee and Conversation series, presented by The Bronx Chamber of Commerce, brings together decision makers, influencers, and thought leaders shaping the economic future of the Bronx and highlights priorities identified by Bronx Chamber members. Land Use & Our Economy features Councilmember Rafael Salamanca, Jr., Chair of the Land Use Committee, to discuss Bronx economic development projects including Hunts Point, and the Kingsbridge Armory, as well as zoning text amendment reforms and his thoughts on the Bronx and NYC economy. The program launched with Hon. Julie Menin, Chair of the NYC Council Committee on Small Business addressing business concerns, fines, small BID grant funding delays, and NYC Small Business Service Oversight. It has since included solution oriented approaches to financing with the US Small Business Administration, access to State resources with Empire State Development, and will continue with City, State, and Federal partners bringing direct services and resources to our members. This action packed hour-long, virtual webinar is something you can do from work, the gym, your office - and addresses the very specific needs of our business community. Make sure you check out the full schedule and register!

LEGISLATION & REGULATIONS

Bronx Chamber of Commerce Appointed to NYC Small Business Commission Mayor Eric Adams and NYC Department Of Small Business Services announced Formation Of Small Business Advisory Commission. The Bronx Chamber of Commerce has been appointed to serve on the Commission, as well as on the Adams Commission for the NYC Department of Buildings. Michael Brady will represent the Bronx Chamber of Commerce on the Small Business Commission, and Darry Saldana and Miguel Matos will represent the Bronx Chamber of Commerce on the Adams Commission for Department of Buildings. The Small Business Advisory Commission builds on Mayor Eric Adams’ commitment to forge strong partnerships with the City’s business community and slash through regulatory barriers to accelerate the economic recovery. Mayor Adams established the Commission in Executive Order 15 to improve the regulatory ecosystem impacting small businesses, outlined in the Mayor’s economic recovery plan, “Rebuild, Renew, Reinvent: A Blueprint for New York City Economic Recovery.“   The Commission will deliver input on new policies, laws, and regulations, as well as on existing rules, fines, fees, and violations. It will serve as a critical link between business leaders and city government, and support business growth while preserving public health and safety. The Commission will serve as a critical link between business leaders and City government, and support business growth while preserving public health and safety.

One Stop Shop NYC Business Portal & Vacancy Alert Signed Into Law by Mayor Eric Adams New York City Mayor Eric Adams signed two bills to promote a broad-based, equitable economic recovery in New York City. One of the bills — Intro. 116 — fulfills a key commitment from the mayor’s “Renew, Rebuild, Reinvent: A Blueprint for New York City’s Economic Recovery,” to create an “NYC Business Portal” that will offer all required applications, permits, licenses, and other documentation needed to open and operate a business in the city on a single, user-friendly digital interface. Intro. 116 — sponsored by New York City Councilmember Julie Menin — would require the commissioner of the New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS) to create a “One-Stop Shop NYC Business Portal,” that would offer all applications, permits, licenses, and related documentation needed to open and operate a small business in the city in a single, easily accessible, and easy-to-navigate location. A user could submit and check on the status of applications, permits, and licenses through this portal as well as settle or pay any outstanding balances on notices of violation. The SBS commissioner also must review the effectiveness and efficiency of the portal every three years, including through a survey of participating small businesses. Intro. 383 — sponsored by New York City Councilmember Gale Brewer — would require that supplemental registration statements for commercial properties be filed by August 15 (for the period from January 1 through June 30) and February 15 (for the period from July 1 through December 31) each year, rather than a single filing on June 30, as required under current law. Supplemental registration statements would be required for any property that is vacant at the end of a given reporting period. It would also require that the New York City Department of Finance (DOF) release this supplemental registration statement data within 60 days of the reporting deadline, compared to within six months under current law. The bill’s goal is to increase the frequency and timeliness of reported data on commercial vacancies in the city.