(Albany, NY) Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026 – Last night, in her first State of the City Address since taking office, Mayor Dr. Dorcey L. Applyrs set the tone that she is listening to City of Albany residents and business owners. Bearing the snow and cold temperatures, a crowd of over 200 local business owners, elected officials, community leaders, and residents gathered at the new Albany West Community Center to hear the Mayor’s address. As the Mayor went through a summary of the City Departments, highlighting key programs, takeaways, and data, her presentation featured the voices of City workers and business owners.
Applause erupted from the audience over a series of new initiatives, including the Keep Albany Clean proposal for increased trash cans around the City. The audience also showed their support during a shoutout to Albany’s newly built recreational center, Albany West, where last night's presentation was held. Mayor Applyrs spoke to a host of partnerships between the City and the community, such as Join Albany, a City initiative to engage people in civil service work. Mayor Applyrs also highlighted the Social Enterprise and Training Center, or SEAT, for their partnership with Hattie’s Restaurant, who catered the event.
The Mayor’s outlook for 2026 struck a promising and optimistic tone, expressing her appreciation for Governor Hochul's investments in Albany’s waterfront through the replacement of Livingston Avenue Bridge and the re-imagining of I-787. “It was great to hear from people leaving the space about their excitement for what’s to come” said Active Albany Committee Member Hettie Barnhill, “It felt like forward motion.”
Mayor Applyrs concluded her presentation with an overview of Albany’s nightlife scene, giving the audience a glimpse of her plan for Evening Activations in Albany. “This City is a 24/7 ecosystem,” Mayor Dr. Dorcey L. Applyrs reiterated. “And with recommendations from our Advisory Council on Nightlife Economy, we will ensure that residents and visitors alike can experience this City's liveliness”