Many clients have asked about the downtown Albany neighborhoods. Whether it’s Center Square, Mansion Hill, or Ten Broeck Triangle, questions arise as to location, boundaries, and character. The downtown Business Improvement District has a nice summary of the downtown Albany neighborhoods. Below is a list of downtown and central neighborhood associations, with links to the active association websites. This information comes directly from the City of Albany, Neighborhoods page.
Council of Albany Neighborhood Associations:
The Council of Albany Neighborhood Associations, commonly known as the “CANA,” is a nonpartisan federation of neighborhoods associations and related organizations that was founded in 1976. CANA was established to coordinate the activities among the different neighborhood associations, and tackle the macro issues affecting the quality of life in Albany. Within the CANA are the following central and downtown Albany neighborhoods.
Center Square
Located in the heart of Albany directly adjacent to downtown, the Center Square neighborhood features a diverse mix of residents, Lark Street unique shops and galleries, and restored historic homes. Center Square Neighborhood Association website.
Hudson-Park
The Albany’s Hudson-Park is known for its convenience, cultural diversity and neighborly interaction. These characteristics stand out in the Hudson-Park area and are the main reason why residents are attracted to this neighborhood. It is located between Washington Park , Lincoln Park and the Empire State Plaza. Hudson-Park Neighborhood Association website.
Washington Square
Washington Square Neighborhood Association (WSNA) is located in Mid-Town Albany and covers the area west of Henry Johnson Blvd to Quail Street and north of Washington Park to Bradford Street. Located within the Washington Square Neighborhood Association are the old SUNY Albany campus, numerous houses of worship and Albany Fire Department Engine 1. Washington Square Neighborhood Association is a diverse community that mirrors the City of Albany population and we work on cleanliness, safety and other quality of life issues for our residents, visitors and those who work here. Meetings are generally held on the second Tuesday of the month at 7:00 pm at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany at 405 Washington Avenue. Washington Square Neighborhood Association website.
Park South
Tucked between the growing University Heights and Washington Park, Park South features a mix of housing styles. Located close to services on New Scotland Avenue and downtown, getting anywhere quickly is easy in Park South.
Mansion Neighborhood
With the Empire State Plaza as a backdrop, the Mansion neighborhood features historic Victorian row houses, the New York State Governor’s Mansion, which is currently the Governor’s active residence, some of the City’s most popular, distinctive restaurants, a diverse artistic community, the historic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of the Albany Catholic Diocese. and a quick walk to all that downtown offers. Mansion Neighborhood Association website.
Ten Broeck Triangle – Arbor Hill
One of the first neighborhoods in Albany, the neighborhood’s rich past is illustrated in the spires of Saint Joseph’s Church, historic structures, and Ten Broeck Mansion. A diverse neighborhood enjoys parks, and a location adjacent to downtown and commercial offerings of Henry Johnson Boulevard. Local home owners have created a great Ten Broeck Triangle blog with current news.
Pastures
A distinct neighborhood features mixed-use living where tennis courts, shops and courtyards are interspersed among historic owner and tenant occupied historic homes. The neighborhood is adjacent to downtown Albany and the waterfront.
South End
The South End is present in historic preserved brick row houses and Schuyler and Cherry Mansion, as well as newly reconstructed South Pearl Street and other new construction. Lincoln Park features the large scale Lincoln Pool, tennis courts and recreational space. South End Neighborhood Association website.
