History of Albany, New York (1983–present) facts for kids
The history of Albany, New York from 1983 to today covers an important time for the city. It starts with the passing of Erastus Corning 2nd, who was Albany's mayor for a very long time. After him, Thomas Whalen became mayor and was chosen again two more times. During this period, Albany received a lot of money from the government. This money helped to fix up many old and important buildings. Mayor Whalen worked to improve what Mayor Corning had already saved from being torn down.
A new office was created to bring more fun festivals and art events to the city. One big event was a year-long celebration in 1986 for the 300th birthday of the Dongan Charter. Mayor Whalen is known for bringing new businesses and investments to Albany. He had strong programs to help the city's economy grow.
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Changes in Albany's Economy
Before the economic slowdown in the early 1990s, Albany was home to two very large companies. These were KeyBank and Fleet Bank, both listed in the Fortune 500. These companies have since either moved or joined with other banks.
Shifting Political Landscape
After Mayor Corning passed away and Congressman Sam Stratton retired, Albany's political scene began to change. People holding office for many years became less common in the 1980s. Local news started to focus more on county politics, especially with the new county executive position. People became less interested in city politics after Mayor Corning and his political group were no longer in charge.
New Leadership in the 1990s
The 1990s brought a surprise election. Gerald Jennings became mayor in 1994. His time as mayor mostly ended the old political system that had been in place since the 1920s.
The Albany Plan
During the 1990s, the state government approved a huge project called the "Albany Plan." This project cost $234 million. It was the biggest building and renovation effort in the area since the time of Governor Rockefeller. The Albany Plan started many new building and renovation projects in the downtown area. It also moved many state workers from the Harriman State Office Campus to downtown.
Future Developments
Towards the end of the 2000s, there was a real chance for a long-talked-about Albany Convention Center. This project had been discussed for many years and was sometimes controversial. By August 2010, the Albany Convention Center Authority had already bought most of the land needed to build this downtown project.
