A state grant is putting $200,000 toward restoring properties in the Schenectady area.

So-called Zombie homes that have been abandoned like the one at 839 Eastern Parkway are being taken over by Richard Ruzzo of Capitol Land Bank. He said his mission is to bring the commercial corridor of the city full circle.

"That's the mission behind our land bank, to remove any of the derelict or the abandoned, and restore them to productive use," Ruzzo said.

The Capital Region Land Bank's involvement is an ongoing effort with the city of Schenectady, investing to remove or rehabilitate buildings that are being held by major banks, but not maintained well.

The Land Bank says they've purchased this property and invested a little more than $200,000. He calls it part of a quest to help the Electric City shine.