Downtown Albany's biggest venue will soon get a facelift. Monday, the Albany County Legislature voted to upgrade the Times Union Center, including adding an enclosed atrium for the South Pearl Street entrance, and new interior space in the back.
Lawmakers have awarded six contracts for the construction. Among the renovations, the building's front entrance will be completely redesigned with a centerpiece fountain or vertical sheet of water. The rear courtyard will also see a new indoor space with skylights, and the mezzanine level will get an expansion of 2,800 square feet.
All of the arena's stairs, sidewalks, escalators and elevators will also receive updates.
Work on the project could start as soon as next month, pending County Executive Dan McCoy's approval. Lawmakers also say the construction should not affect county property taxes.
The renovations are expected to be completed by late fall 2017.