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Board approves modification to 1991 use variance allowing conversion of vacant historic house at 281 State Street into seven apartments
Summary
The Albany City Board of Zoning Appeals approved a modification of a 1991 use variance to allow conversion of a long-vacant former guesthouse at 281 State Street into seven apartments. Supporters cited historic preservation and safety; the applicant said financial constraints prevent set-aside affordable units.
The Albany City Board of Zoning Appeals on Dec. 3 approved a modification to a 1991 use variance that will let the owner convert a vacant former guest house at 281 State Street into seven rental apartments.
The applicant told the board the building — previously run as a transient guest house and vacant for years — will be renovated with four upper-level apartments, two on the middle floors and one garden-level unit, for a total of seven units. He said the project includes eight parking spaces (one reserved for trash), newly installed three-phase electrical service and EV chargers, and water-system upgrades. "We're proposing to turn it into a 7‑unit apartment building," the applicant said during his presentation.
Neighbors and preservati…
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