ALBANY, NY —The Albany County Pine Hills Land Authority (ACPHLA) has unveiled the “Reimagine Saint Rose” brand, a unified vision and community-focused initiative to guide the redevelopment of the former College of Saint Rose campus. As steward of the 26.5-acre property, ACPHLA is leading the transformation into a vibrant mixed-use destination that honors the site’s legacy while creating opportunities to benefit communities across Albany County.
The “Reimagine Saint Rose” brand reflects a bold, inclusive approach to redevelopment of the campus, which is home to more than 70 buildings and nearly 950,000 square feet of social spaces, houses, offices and more.
“When I took on this project, it was a bold idea—but I was determined not to let the College of Saint Rose campus become another set of abandoned buildings, fall into decay and become a magnet for crime, drugs or unsafe conditions,” said Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy. “We saw an opportunity to protect and transform this beautiful college into something that will serve the community for generations. From day one, I held my ground on the campus price to make the vision work: a vibrant, mixed-use space for the County, private partners and other agencies.
We’re already making progress on exciting initiatives like the On-Ramp Program with Governor Hochul, and the city’s first senior center since 2011,” said County Executive McCoy. “Looking ahead, we’re planning a 55+ community with fair housing and robust programming, making this a destination for all County residents – a place to walk the campus, access services, find sanctuary, enjoy a meal or coffee, and experience the beauty of this space in the heart of Albany. It will truly be a community hub for everyone.”
“When I look across this campus, I see the potential for housing, arts, education, community gathering spaces and workforce training,” said Nick Mazza, board chair of ACPHLA. “Reimagine Saint Rose isn’t just a slogan, it’s our commitment to crafting a smart, future-ready mixed-use destination that serves Pine Hills residents and all of Albany County.”
ACPHLA has engaged the planning firm CPL to lead a comprehensive redevelopment study, with a complete strategy expected by November 2025. This planning process includes robust community engagement to ensure future development reflects local input and needs.
“With the launch of the ‘Reimagine Saint Rose’ brand, we’re rolling out a countywide call to action: that this campus can be a catalyst for economic development, resident services and inclusive innovation,” said Kevin O’Connor, CEO of ACPHLA.
I’m deeply grateful to the leadership of the Legislature, the full legislative body, the Governor and the New York State Legislature for believing in this vision and standing with me to make it a reality,” added County Executive McCoy.
Key components of the preliminary vision include affordable and senior housing, education and workforce uses, community services and public uses and local business activation.
ACPHLA will continue to coordinate across agencies and stakeholders to activate economic partnerships aligned with the brand’s mission. The “Reimagine Saint Rose” roadmap offers multiple opportunities for developers, community groups, and institutions to join in shaping a shared future for Pine Hills and Albany County.
About Albany County Pine Hills Land Authority: The Albany County Pine Hills Land Authority supports the revitalization and responsible redevelopment of the former College of Saint Rose campus within the Pine Hills neighborhood of Albany, New York. As a public benefit corporation, the Authority works in partnership with local governments, community stakeholders and private developers to advance projects that promote economic development, increase housing opportunities and enhance quality of life. Learn more by visiting advancealbanycounty.com/about/acphla-documents/.