Herkimer Hall gets $10 Million Makeover 

Herkimer Hall upgrades include all new plumbing, electrical and lighting systems, a study lounge and new laundry facilities. (Photos by DASNY)

ALBANY, N. Y. (Aug. 31, 2017) — Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo on Wednesday announced the completion of a $10.3 million project to improve Herkimer Hall in Colonial Quad. The project is part of $47 million in Capital Projects being completed on SUNY campuses statewide by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY).

"With these critical upgrades, we are transforming Herkimer Hall into a state-of-the-art facility to help keep the University at Albany competitive and attractive," Cuomo said. "From faculty to classes to facilities, our world-leading state university system has unparalleled offerings to attract and foster New York's next generation of leaders."

The $10.3 million improvement project was the first major renovation of the 51-year-old residence hall. All of the building's systems were replaced, including: mechanical, plumbing, electric and lighting. The extensive renovation completely modernized the building, adding new efficient windows, a new roof, complete retooled HVAC including valance heat, new bathrooms, updated laundry facilities and community study and recreation spaces.

“We're pleased to partner with DASNY and SUNY to upgrade our residence halls," said Interim President James R. Stellar. "With growing enrollment and expansion of our academic offerings, the continuous improvement of our facilities is essential in providing a secure and productive learning and living environment for the University community."

The project was done to LEED-Gold standards under the U.S. Green Building Council's sustainability and energy efficiency guidelines. Recycled content was used as well as low-emitting materials to ensure air quality.

This supports Cuomo's Executive Order 88, which is to achieve a 20 percent reduction in energy use in state buildings by 2020 through the BuildSmart NY program.

The New York Power Authority, and its partnership with the SUNY system and five other state agencies accounts for 90 percent of state building space. The Herkimer Hall project and BuildSmart NY also support the governor's Reforming the Energy Vision strategy to build a clean, resilient and affordable energy system and meet the state’s 2030 goal of reducing statewide greenhouse gas emissions 40 percent and decreasing energy consumption in buildings by 23 percent.

The work was financed through DASNY's SUNY Dormitory Facilities Program, which issues low-cost tax-exempt bonds supported by student residence hall fees.

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