Albany officials weigh new school at state office complex

PHOTOGRAPHER: Michael Goot

The concept of building a new Albany High School at the Harriman Campus and a dorm for University at Albany students at the current Albany High is being tossed around as part of the redevelopment of the state office park.

Nothing has been decided, but school officials this week confirmed that is one scenario being considered for redevelopment of the underutilized 330-acre site. Other options include construction at other sites or major renovation to the current high school at 700 Washington Ave., according to Superintendent Raymond Colucciello.

“The Board of Education will continue to consider all options in this ongoing dialogue with the community to determine the best future direction for Albany High School, its students and staff, and the entire city,” he said in a statement.

School officials have cited the age of the building and the lack of field space at the current facility. The varsity football, soccer and baseball teams play their home games at Bleecker Stadium. Also, this past school year, the district has divided the high school into four smaller “learning communities,” similar to what Schenectady High School has done with its four academic houses. However, the building was not really designed for that configuration.

If the idea moves forward, school district voters would still have to vote to approve the move and spend the money.

The second part of the plan calls for building a new dorm at the current site of Albany High School.

University at Albany spokesman Karl Luntta said numerous plans have been on the table and the university has been in discussions with the city and school district. But nothing has been determined at this point.

“The university, however, would be supportive of any plan that provides affordable housing for students,” he said.

Luntta was not able to provide details on the plans.

A state official who requested anonymity said an announcement would come soon about the redevelopment of the Harriman Campus.