Final State of the City '25: A Love Letter to Albany

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Mayor Kathy Sheehan’s final State of the City address reflects on 12 years of transformation, resilience, and progress in Albany, NY. As the city’s first female mayor, she has led efforts to revitalize neighborhoods, modernize infrastructure, strengthen public safety, and expand economic opportunities. From reducing poverty and improving public services to securing historic investments, her leadership has positioned Albany for a thriving future. Explore the key accomplishments and lasting impact of Mayor Sheehan’s tenure, and read her heartfelt letter to the city she has called home.

State of the City 2025 - 004

A Look Back at Albany’s Journey

In 2014, the city faced a $16 million structural deficit, a depleted rainy-day fund, and the lingering effects of the Great Recession. Through bold leadership, strategic investments, and community-driven initiatives, Albany has transformed—achieving balanced budgets, revitalizing neighborhoods, strengthening public safety, and fostering economic growth.

12 Years of Transformation Highlights

Mayor Can Design 2025 [Recovered]

Fiscal Stability

  • Closed a $16M structural deficit
  • Secured recurring Capital City Funding
  • Increased rainy-day fund to $17M

Housing & Neighborhood Revitalization

  • $620M in market-rate housing investments
  • $527M in subsidized housing investments
  • 617 homeowners received rehab grants

Public Safety & Community Engagement

  • 21% crime reduction since 2013
  • Expanded Community Policing & Mental Health Services
  • Opened the State’s largest Crime Analysis Center

Infrastructure & Quality of Life

  • 204 miles of repaved streets
  • 13.6 miles of new bike paths
  • New Parks & Recreation Centers
  • 1,500 lead service lines replaced

Economic Growth

  • Secured $1B+ in public/private investment
  • 100+ new businesses opened
  • Downtown Albany $385M revitalization

A Love Letter to Albany

Mayor Sheehan’s final address was more than a recap of accomplishments—it was a heartfelt love letter to the city that shaped her leadership.

Dear Albany,


When I first laid eyes on you, you were celebrating your 300th anniversary as a city. I was just passing through, but I couldn’t quite shake the feeling that I had found someplace very special.


Not long after that fateful visit, you became my home and stole my heart. You are a place steeped in history, and yet you are endlessly captivating – a city that nurtures new ideas and traditions all at once.


From the grandeur of New York’s Capitol to the charm of your historic neighborhoods; from the mighty Hudson River to the beauty of your parks; from your Tulip Festival to your Pride Parade, you are always changing, yet comfortably familiar.


It is not surprising that those of us who choose to live here feel so strongly about you. We fight for you and sing your praises because as much as we love you, we know you love us back.


With love, yours Truly 
Kathy Sheehan

A Toast to Albany: Special Nine Pin Collaboration

Nine Pin, as Albany’s hometown cider, is proud to present Kathy’s Legacy Lemonade—a tribute to resilience and transformation. Crafted to honor Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan's 12 years of leadership, this cider embodies turning challenges into opportunities. As Albany's first female mayor, Kathy has built a legacy of innovation, equity, and community, including initiatives like ReZone Albany that paved the way for businesses like Nine Pin to thrive. Raise a glass to a city poised for a bright future!

To celebrate Mayor Sheehan’s legacy, Nine Pin Cider has launched a limited-edition cider, symbolizing Albany’s growth and transformation.

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  1. State of the City 2025 - 004

    Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan Presents Her Final State of the City Address

    Highlighting 12 Transformational Years and Planting the Seeds for Albany’s Future Read on...