City of Cohoes Remsen Streetscape Improvements

Following three successful grant applications, LaBella and the City of Cohoes partnered together to revitalize Remsen Street, the historic core of the City, through a multi-phase streetscape improvement project.

Phase I included 650 linear feet of streetscape improvements within the City’s entertainment district, running from the historic Cohoes Music Hall at Cayuga Street to the Manufacturers Bank Building and the City’s original Grist Mill at Ontario Street. The design for Phase I began in 2016 and focused on the conversion of two-way to one-way traffic with an emphasis on the pedestrian environment through strategic widening of the street and sidewalks with accommodations for cyclists and the Capital District Transportation Authority’s (CDTA) state-of-the-art Bus Rapid Transit line.

Phase II included 1,100 linear feet of streetscape improvements within the City’s business and restaurant district, running from the original Woolworths Store at Ontario Street, past Egberts Hall at White Street, to Smiths Public House at Howard Street. Phase III included 500 linear feet of streetscape improvements, extending the business and restaurant district from Howard Street to Columbia Street—connecting the downtown east to Cohoes Boulevard and west to the City’s residential neighborhoods, schools, public facilities, and the prominent Veterans Memorial Park. The design for Phases II and III of the project included similar improvements while focusing on revitalizing the core of the City—embracing longstanding restaurants, residences, and businesses; and attracting new investors downtown.

The streetscape improvements spanned approximately 2,250 linear feet and included ADA-compliant sidewalks, decorative brick paver borders, granite curbs and curbed bump outs, milling and paving, bike racks, a new CDTA bus shelter, electric car charging stations, and numerous other site amenities. Native street trees, bioretention areas, and flexible outdoor seating contributed to a more welcoming and sustainable environment.

In addition to modernizing infrastructure, the project honored the City’s rich history by revitalizing its once-bustling streetscape. The improvements spurred economic growth, attracting new businesses while drawing residents and visitors back to the City’s restaurants, shops, and public spaces. LaBella played a key role in securing funding, designing, and overseeing the construction of this transformative project. which exemplifies how thoughtful streetscape design can breathe new life into a historic area, paving the way for continued development and success,