Project Size (sf): 78,000 | Owner: Albany Housing Authority | Architect: Dave Sadowsky, Architect PC | Location: Albany, NY | Project Type: New Construction | Classification: Urban Revitalization
Ida Yarbrough Revitalization Phase I
The existing housing at the Ida Yarbrough facility had become obsolete beyond repair and with the need for affordable housing Albany Housing Authority was able to secure funding to provide new buildings for the community. As the Construction Manager for Ida Yarbrough Phase I, AOW was tasked with providing an intricate design, strictly budgeted, for affordable housing. With 3 months of value engineering suggestions between the Owner, Design Team and AOW the project was finally brought within budget.
Each apartment was required to meet Energy Star goals and meet minimal storm water discharge from the site as required by various funding sources. The new construction of these 11 buildings included advanced wood framing methods to minimize thermal transfer from the exterior to the interior. Green roofs were installed at all buildings to minimize storm water discharge along with a 2,000 gallon tank to provide water to a cistern at the community garden. Unique architectural design aspects included the cement siding with metal accents and the curved steel canopies.
Eleven buildings, 62 apartments, totaling 78,000 sf was constructed on a site that was less than forgiving. With a substantial grade change from top to bottom and Albany’s “blue clay” the construction had its difficulties. Substantial retaining walls were poured, pedestrian bridges were built to allow access into the apartments. Drainage was a major factor during construction and post construction. With State funding the necessity of meeting the MWBE, Section 3 and Labor Utilizations Goals becomes part of the project and special coordination was taken to make sure the goals were met.
For over a decade, the Albany Housing Authority has relied on AOW’s experience in value engineering, budgeting, and project execution in order to revitalize the underserved neighborhoods within the City of Albany.
