COVID-19 City of Albany Resource Guide

View a complete list of what City services are currently unavailable and available, as well as information on how to access the available services. You will also find contact information should you have questions regarding a specific city service. Please note, this information was updated on Monday, June 8, 2020.

The Albany County Department of Health has a complete list of testing site locations that is regularly updated. Instructions for getting tested at these sites is also included. Access testing information on the Albany County Department of Health website.

New York State will hire and train a team of staff working remotely to support the NYS Department of Health (NYSDOH) and Local Health Departments (LHDs) to perform COVID-19 contact tracing in communities across NYS. The aim of this initiative will be to call every person diagnosed with COVID-19, establish all contacts of this person, and proceed to call and maintain ongoing communication with every contact. In addition, the team will support the isolation and quarantine of individuals, as appropriate in cooperation with the LHD. This includes virtual needs checks and referral to community resources as needed. This contact tracing initiative is in tandem with statewide-wide efforts to increase testing, improve communication and knowledge of effective strategies to reduce transmission, and implementation of isolation and quarantine. This will fortify efforts to control the pandemic in NYS. Find more information including qualifications and to apply.

What is COVID-19 (Coronavirus)?

COVID-19 is a virus spread person to person by droplets when coughing. It can cause an illness ranging from mild to severe. This virus causes a disease called COVID-19 and can lead to fever, cough and shortness of breath. For more information on COVID-19, please visit the Albany County Department of Health website.  As of Wednesday, March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global health pandemic.

Ways to Prevent COVID-19: 

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and New York State Department of Health (NYS DOH), themost essential ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19 include:

• Wash your hands with soap and water regularly for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Avoid close contact with others and practice social distancing.
• Stay home if you are sick.
• Clean and disinfest frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Symptoms of COVID-19

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and New York State Department of Health (NYS DOH), the symptoms of COVID-19 include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath/trouble breathing
• Pain/pressure in the chest that doesn't go away
• Experiencing confusion or trouble waking up
• Bluish lips or face

Please see links to copies of the Stop the Spread of Germs poster in various languages below.

• Arabic CDC Stop the Spread of Germs Poster (PDF)
• Burmese CDC Stop the Spread of Germs Poster (PDF)
• Chinese CDC Stop the Spread of Germs Poster (PDF)
• Dari CDC Stop the Spread of Germs Poster (PDF)
• Farsi CDC Stop the Spread of Germs Poster (PDF)
• French CDC Stop the Spread of Germs Poster (PDF)
• Pashto CDC Stop the Spread of Germs (PDF)
• Portuguese CDC Stop the Spread of Germs Poster (PDF)
• Russian CDC Stop the Spread of Germs (PDF)
• Spanish Stop the Spread of Germs (PDF)
• Swahili CDC Stop the Spread of Germs Poster (PDF)
• Tigrinya CDC Stop the Spread of Germs Poster (PDF)
• Ukrainian Stop the Spread of Germs (PDF)

What to do if you have symptoms of COVID

Call ahead to your health care provider before seeking treatment in person. Even if you have not been in contact with an infected person or an affected area, but are experiencing all symptoms of COVID-19, you should call New York State Department of Health at 1-888-364-3065 or Albany County Department of Health at (518) 447-4580 to receive guidance on what to do and how to self-quarantine.

View a guide to home-proofing for COVID-19 and other illnesses.

Limits on Restaurants & Bars

The Capital Region is currently in Phase 4 of Governor Cuomo's Reopening. Restaurants and food services establishments, including food trucks and other food concessions may open outdoor spaces with seating for customers, as well as open indoor spaces with seating for customers limited at 50 % capacity. Please see COVID-19 Guidance for Outdoor and Take-Out/Delivery Food Services for a complete list of rules and regulations. 

Limits on Mass Gatherings

Phase Four of Reopening includes allowing gatherings of up to 50 people, indoor religious gatherings of up to 33% of the building capacity and indoor arts and entertainment venues can open at 25 % capacity.

Where to Access Food

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area are hosting free breakfast and lunch to all youth 18 years and younger daily between 11:30 am and 12:30 pm at the following Albany locations:

• Ezra Prentice – 625 South Pearl Street
• Creighton Storey Homes – 158 3rd Avenue
• Robert E. Whalen – 295 Colonie Street
• North Albany Homes – 41 Jennings Drive

Please email Claire Livezey for more information. 

The South End Children’s Café is delivering food to children and families. To arrange for food for your children and family or to donate food for these families, please contact Lily at 518-478-3369. 

Meals and Assistance for Seniors

The Albany County Department for the Aging is encouraging older residents who are home-bound and in need of day-to-day assistance, including home delivered meals and medication to contact NY Connects at 518-447-7177.

Within the City  of Albany, the Albany Neighborhood Naturally Occurring Retirement Community (NNORC), a program administered through Jewish Family Services, is using their program to assess and meet the critical needs of the more than 4,000 residents age 60 and over who live within the NNORC neighborhood.  Throughout the duration of this crisis, all staff will be making regular phone calls to inquire about each resident’s:

• Health status
• Access to food and meals
• Access to transportation to vital medical appointments
• Access to medications

As needs arise, the NNORC staff will be coordinating with local authorities, medical providers, grocery stores, and pharmacies to safely meet any identified needs. NNORC also recognizes that an extended period of isolation cuts our seniors off from much needed social contact, and as a result their staff is also working hard to develop creative ways to connect residents to the NNORC and to one another, whether through a Facebook Live chair yoga class or weekly telephone support groups with our mental health and healthcare professionals. Once details are finalized, they will be shared here.

Additionally, AARP has a hotline for seniors who are isolated and feeling lonely. Visit the Friendly Voice Virtual Volunteer Opportunity page if you would like a friendly call or you are interested in recruiting and supporting volunteers to reach out to interested people.

Grocery Store Hours, Including Specifically for Seniors

Price Chopper/Market 32

Open daily from 7 am to 10 pm Seniors only between 6 am and 7 am.

City of Albany locations:

• 40 Delaware Avenue –  Phone: 518-465-2603
• 911 Central Avenue – Phone: 518-482-0280
• 1060 Madison Avenue –  Phone: 518-438-6241

ShopRite of Albany 

Open daily from 7 am to 10 pm. At risk individuals only between 6 am and 7 am.

• 709 Central Avenue – Phone: 518-292-1245 

Hannaford Supermarket 

Open Monday through Sunday from 6 am to 12 am, and Sunday from 7 am to 12 am. At risk individuals only Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 7 am to 8 am.

• 900 Central Avenue – Phone: 518-438-7296

Honest Weight Food Co-Op 

Open daily from 8 am to 8 pm. Monday, Wednesday and Friday: Open to elder and high risk shoppers 6 am to 8 am.

• 100 Watervliet Avenue – Phone: 518-482-2667

Food Pantries Open

• Food Pantries of the Capital Region - Contact the Food Access Referral Line to find the nearest food pantry if you need help right now (518-458-1167 x108)
• Mater Christi pantries - 3 West Erie Street – 518-596-6691

Feed Albany provides at-risk and in-need individuals in Albany, New York and the Greater Capital Region with access to prepared & packaged meal solutions by utilizing commercial kitchens, unemployed restaurant workers, volunteers and the use of donated vehicles to produce, package and distribute prepared meal solutions.

They are working closely with The United Way, the City of Albany, The Food Pantries, the Albany County Sheriff and various other local organizations and service providers to identify those at-risk and in-need and through our resources and partnerships, to facilitate delivery of both prepared meals and food items to these individuals and organizations.

We need your help. Make a donation today to help us continue to provide these crucial services to individuals in need. Make a donation now.

The City of Albany’s three Business Improvement Districts are regularly updating the pages below with information on local restaurants and bars that are open for take-out/delivery or outdoor and 50% capacity indoor dining. In addition there is a list of restaurants below that remain open. To add a restaurant or bar that is missing from this list, please call 518-434-5105 or email.

Downtown Albany Business Improvement District 

Lark Street Business Improvement District 

Central Avenue Business Improvement District 

Upper Madison Avenue:

• Variety Pizza and Deli - 1112 Madison Avenue - 518-438-4333
• Curry House - 1112 Madison Avenue - 518 438-2265
• Kismet - 1116 Madison Avenue - 518-599-0500
• Cafe Madison - 1108 Madison Avenue - 518-935-1094
• Junior’s – 1094 Madison Avenue – 518-935-2025
• Dunkin’ Donuts – 1066 Madison Avenue – 518-486-8332
• Subway – 1066 Madison Avenue – 518-459-4925 
• Xing Long - 1066 Madison Avenue - 518-438-8881
• The Madison Theater - 1036 Madison Avenue - 518-621-7122
• Brewtus Roasters - 1036 Madison Avenue- 518-977-3853
• Paesan’s Pizza - 289 Ontario St - 518 435-0312
• Madison’s Pizza - 846 Madison Ave - 518 437-0001
• Viva Cinco De Mayo - 809 Madison Avenue - 518- 650-8605
• Moliendo Cafe - 791 Madison Ave - 518 898-9081
• Chicken Joe's - 486 Yates Street - 518-472-0305
• Mr. Pio Pio - 160 Quail St - 518 463-2800‬
• D&M Jerk Center - 160A Quail Street - 518-898-9093

Lower Madison Avenue:

• Cafe Capriccio - 49 Grand Street - 518-465-0439
• Betty Boops Diner - 115 Philip Street - 518-729-5945

Lark Street:

• Cafe Hollywood - 275 Lark Street - 518-472-9043
• Berben & Wolff Vegan Delicatessan - 227 Lark Street - 518-599-5306
• El Loco Mexican Cafe - 465 Madison Avenue - 518-436-1855
• El Mariachi Tapas - 271 Lark Street - 518-465-2568
• Iron Gate Cafe - 182 Washington Avenue - 518-445-3555
• Lark Street Poke Bar - 203 Lark Street - 518-818-0897
• Masala House Curry N Grill - 4 Delaware Avenue - 518-818-1004
• Savoy Taproom - 301 Lark Street - 518-599-5140
• Sukhothai - 254 Lark Street - 518-463-0223
• Villa Di Como Ristorante & Pizzeria - 286 Lark Street - 518-475-7777
• The Local 217 - 5 1/2 Delaware Avenue - 518-462-0050

Downtown:

• 677 Prime - 518-427-7463
• The Aboriginal Taco Company - 50 S Pearl Street - 518-772-5031
• Allie B's Cozy Kitchen - 353 Clinton Avenue - 518-729-3472
• Ama Cocina - 4 Sheridan Avenue - 518-776-4550
• Amigos Tacos & Empanadas 50 S. Pearl Street - 518-512-4025
• Amo La Bella - 89 Beaver Street - 518-434-3121
• The Bishop - 90 N Pearl St. - 518-512-5009
• B-Rad's Bistro Express - 677 Broadway - 518.268.0922
• Charter Restaurant and Sessions Lounge - 40 Lodge Street - 518.427.3048
• City Beer Hall - 42 Howard St. - 518- 449-2337
• The Cobblestone Lunch Shoppe - 518-393-1042
• Dallas Hot Weiners - 51 S Pearl Street - 518-426-8400
• Dunkin Donuts - 39 N Pearl Street - 518-427-0897
• Dawn's Victory Cafe - 518-463-9113
• El Mariachi - 518-432-7580
• El Pilon Market - 518-650-6345
• Emmanuel Thai Restaurant - 518-427-0200
• The Excelsior Pub - 54 Philip Street - 518.462.0690 
• Golden Fried Chicken - 125 S Pearl Street - 518.426.1063
• The Healthy Cafe Food Truck - 518-257-2323
• Jack's Oyster House - 518-465-8854
• Johnnie's On Broadway - 518- 434-5752
• Jonathan's Pizza - 518-463-5100
• Kenneth's Taste Buds - 177 Henry Johnson Blvd. - 518-463-1824
• Lam's Chinese Kitchen - 51 S Pearl Street - 518-545-3228
• Loch & Quay - 414 Broadway - 518.389.7201
• McGeary's Irish Pub - 518-463-1455
• Miranda's Deli - 518-542-5319
• Mugshots Cafe - 518-390-0998
• Myrna's Soul Food Restaurant - 123 Madison Avenue - 518.275.0458
• Roy's Caribbean Restaurant - 185 Henry Johnson Blvd. - 518-433-1343
• V&R Italian Restaurant - 136 Madison Avenue - 518-626-0001
• Subway - 69 State Street - 518-449-2773
• Steuben Street Market - 54 N Pearl Street - info@steubenstreetmarket.com
• Stagecoach Coffee - 90 State Street - 518.436.7233
• Saati Deli & Catering -  518 Broadway - 518.465.305
• Pearl Street Diner - 40 N. Pearl Street - 518-463-4829
• Pizzeria Sapienza - 51 S Pearl Street - 518.730.4841
• Pizzeria 54 - 55 N Pearl Street - 518.432.5454
• PG's Cafe - 112 State Street - 518.465.1284
• OKIPOKI - 41 State Street - 518.596.3131
• The Paper Dragon - 518-917-3133
• Wellington's - 518-992-2432

New Scotland Avenue:

• Tipsy Moose – 261 New Scotland Avenue – 518-631-4448
• Albany Ale & Oyster – 281 New Scotland Avenue – 518-487-4152
• Graney’s Bar & Grill – 275 New Scotland Avenue – 518-453-3299
• Kuma Ani - 287 New Scotland Avenue - 518-487-4752
• Dunkin’ Donuts – 601 New Scotland Avenue – 518-482-3880
• Andy’s Place – 605 New Scotland Avenue – 518-489-2411
• Niko’s Café – 577 New Scotland Avenue – 518-453-9191
• Cusato’s Pizza – 605A New Scotland Avenue – 518-813-9001
• Navona – 289 New Scotland Avenue – 518-435-0202
• Sake Cafe - 273 New Scotland Avenue - 518-459-6688
• Ragonese Italian Imports - 409 New Scotland Avenue - 518-482-2358
• Martel's at Capital Hills - 69 O'Neil Road - 518-489-0466

Picotte Drive:

• Spinner’s Pizza – 22 Picotte Drive – 518-482-7311 

Western Avenue:

• Crave Burgers – 217 Western Avenue – 518-418-7040
• The Cuckoo’s Nest – 234 Western Avenue – 518-650-7215

UAlbany Campus - Western Avenue:

• Barcelona's - 1192 Western Avenue- 518-438-1144
• DC Pizza & Catering - 1182 Western Avenue - 518-482-1392
• Fiorello's Importing & Deli - 1182 Western Avenue - 518-489-7067
• Pizza Express - 1178 Western Avenue - 518-489-2222

Washington Avenue:

• Stickies - 228 Washington Avenue - 518-599-0838
• Dan's Place Two - 494 Washington Avenue - 518- 463-9102
• Umana Restaurant & Wine Bar - 236 Washington Avenue - 518-915-1699
• Lynn's Uptown Tavern - 15 Colvin Avenue - 518-453-1566

Delaware Avenue:

• Cardona’s – 340 Delaware Avenue - 518-434-4838
• Cheese Traveler – 540 Delaware Avenue - 518-443-0440
• Nicole’s – 556 Delaware Avenue - 518-436-4952
• Prinzo’s Bakery – 344 Delaware Avenue – 518-463-4904
• Delaware Supply – 292 Delaware Avenue – 518-818-0927
• Sweet Basil Thai – 370 Delaware Avenue – 518-729-4111
• Andy’s & Son’s – 256 Delaware Avenue – 518-463-2754
• Elbow Room, 170 Delaware - 518-257-7300
• Thai & Myanamar Market, 328 Delaware - 518-496-9231
• Emack & Bolio's, 366 Delaware Ave - 518-512-5100
• Natty's Caribbean Cuisine & Pizza - 448 Delaware Avenue - 518-621-7569
• El Empanada Llama, 469 Delaware Ave - 518-915-1887
• Sweet Eats, 540 Delaware Ave - 518-621-3727

Central Avenue

• Juices Forever - 69 Central Avenue - 518-898-9320
• Kitchen 216 - 85 Central Avenue - 518-898-9102
• Lo Nuestro Dominican Restaurant - 518- 275-0348
• Van's Vietnamese Restaurant -307 Central Avenue - 518-436-1868
• Irie Vybez - 313 Central Avenue - 518-487-4844
• Salsa Latina - 315 Central Avenue - 518-426-7050
• Orchard Tavern - 68 N. Manning Blvd. - 518-482-5677
• Grappa 72 - 818 Central Avenue- 518-482-7200
• Pepper Jack's - 192 N. Allen Street - 518-426-5505
• El Patron Mexican Grill & Cantina - 518-462-5812

YMCA Childcare Partnership

The YMCA is offering childcare services for hospital, emergency-response personnel and “essential” workers beginning Monday, March 23. In addition to licensed health professionals such as physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, registered nurses, LPNs, there are many other “essential” workers. View the complete list. 

The YMCA will administer and staff the program, which will operate from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. daily at the following six schools:

• Arbor Hill Elementary School, 1 Arbor Drive
• Eagle Point Elementary School, 1044 Western Ave.
• Giffen Memorial Elementary School, 274 South Pearl St.
• New Scotland Elementary School, 369 New Scotland Ave.
• Schuyler Achievement Academy, 676 Clinton Ave.
• Sheridan Preparatory Academy, 400 Sheridan Ave.

The program will have a limited capacity, with a maximum of 30 children per school (three classrooms with 10 children). The YMCA will staff each room with two employees.

The Capital District YMCA continues to provide care for infants, toddlers, and pre-schoolers at their 4 Early Learning Centers: 

Clifton Park KidzLodge Early Learning Center
47 Clifton Country Road, Clifton Park, NY 12065
518-881-0055

Duanesburg Early Learning Center
185 Mott Rd, Duanesburg, NY 12056
518-356-6400

Glenville Learning Ladder Early Learning Center
547 Saratoga Road, Glenville, NY 12302
518-360-8090 

Scotia Thelma P. Lally Early Learning Center
204 S. Ten Broeck Street, Scotia, NY 12302
518-374-4914 

Please visit the Captial District YMCA website today or call 518.869.3500 for more information. For care for your child, please call one of our Early Learning Centers today.

To provide childcare scholarship assistance for essential personnel during these unprecedented times, the Capital District YMCA sets a goal to raise $250,000 towards the BETTER TOGETHER FUND, an emergency childcare fund for essential personnel as defined by Governor Cuomo. 

The Y always accepts families, regardless of their ability to pay. By contributing to the BETTER TOGETHER FUND, the people of our region will make a direct and immediate impact by helping the Y provide safe, high-quality care for children whose parents and guardians have no choice but to report to work. Please join the Capital District YMCA by demonstrating how we come together and serve those who need us the most. Visit the Captial District YMCA website today.

CARES Child Care Scholarships to Provide Free Child Care to Eligible Essential Workers

Brightside Up applauds the action of the Cuomo Administration in developing a plan to provide child care to essential workers at no cost. This allocation of funding for child care for essential workers comes to the state from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), which has provided New York with $163.6 million in emergency relief to the child care system.

New York State is using a portion of this funding to provide reduced or no cost child care for income eligible essential workers.  Essential workers using a licensed/registered child care provider will receive a scholarship for the cost of care as long as the funds to support it are available. All licensed and registered providers who are caring for essential workers are able to participate in this new program.

The Program Information Profile is the application for child care providers to accept CARES Scholarship recipients and payments from Brightside Up. After completion of this profile, providers will be contacted by Tricia Howland or Keely Weise from Brightside Up with further information.

Parents are instructed to complete this application for the CARES Child Care Scholarship. Questions can be emailed to Tricia Howland.

For parents that currently receive subsidy from their local DSS to pay for child care, this scholarship can cover the parent co-pay. Parents should apply for the CARES Act Scholarship, and then contact their local Department of Social Services to get a letter stating their current co-pay.

During this time there has been an uptick in domestic violence crimes across New York State and Albany County. Advocates are available 24/7 to talk to anyone who is experiencing domestic violence, looking for information or questioning unhealthy aspects of their relationship.

Under Executive Order 202.6, domestic violence service providers are considered essential services. The NYS Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence has provided a list of domestic violence programs. The NYS Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline is operational 24 hours/day, 7 days/week and can be reached by calling 1-800-942-6906.  For those who are unable to make a phone call, The National Domestic Violence Hotline offers a chat function through their website that is available 24/7/365.

The Albany County DV program is Equinox - hotline number 518-432-7865. Their services, including the DV shelter is open and accepting clients. Facebook: @NYSdomesticviolence or Twitter and Instagram: @NYSOPDV

The National Domestic Violence Prevention Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE(7233). Albany County is also providing a similar service. You can call their 24-hour sexual assault crisis hotline at 518-447-7716 any time to speak with a sexual assault counselor.

During this difficult time, we are all facing challenges that seem daunting and that we may feel unprepared for. Access a Resource Guide (PDF) intended to help navigate life with children through the pandemic and the days that follow.

The Help Line is staffed by volunteers, including mental health professionals, who have received training in crisis counseling. To access the Emotional Support Line, please call 1-844-863-9314

The New York State Emotional Support Line provides free and confidential support, helping callers experiencing increased anxiety due to the COVID-19 emergency.

The Help Line is staffed by volunteers, including mental health professionals, who have received training in crisis counseling. To access the Emotional Support Line, please call 1-844-863-9314

Crisis Support for Students

This time is also incredibly difficult for our young people. Crisis Chat is a place to talk about problems and stress that may be difficult to talk about anywhere else. It is a place to find non-judgmental support and help through a difficult time. Crisis Chat is a place to find information on mental-health problems and services. It’s a confidential, secure and anonymous way of reaching out for help when you don’t know where else to turn. For more information visit the Albany Schools website.

Mental Health Support Lines

For those who are experiencing stress, anxiety or even depression during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, New York State has a Crisis Text Line where you can anonymously text someone 27/4. Starting a conversation is easy – text GOT5 to 741741.

Albany County Mental Health Support Line has expanded its hours and is now available seven days a week from 8 am to 8 pm. Residents can access that line by dialing 518-269-6634.

Anyone experiencing a psychiatric emergency should still call the Albany County Mobile Crisis Team at 518-549–6500.

Additionally, AARP has a hotline for seniors who are isolated and feeling lonely. Visit the Friendly Voice Virtual Volunteer Opportunity and Program page if you would like a friendly call or you are interested in recruiting and supporting volunteers to reach out to interested people.

Time Limit Parking Regulations Lifted/Curbside Pick Up Areas for Local Eateries

In March, the City announced the creation of curbside pickup areas in front of local eateries that continue to serve take-out.  These dedicated parking spots are designed to help protect both employees and customers and ensure the continued compliance of social distancing protocols.  Curbside pick-up parking spots may only be used for up to 30 minutes and are denoted with these signs. 

Short-term curbside pickup parking areas will remain in effect through August 15. There will continue to be no fees associated with this service during that time. 

Any local eatery offering take-out that would like to be included in the program should email the City of Albany or call 518-434-5105 to request the appropriate signage.

Parking Regulations in Washington Park and Lincoln Park Lifted Effective Immediately

Mayor Kathy Sheehan and Albany Police Chief Eric Hawkins announced that time-limit parking regulations have been lifted at both Washington Park and Lincoln Park until further notice to create additional parking opportunities throughout the City during the COVID-19 outbreak. Other parking regulations, including parking within 15 feet of a fire hydrant or at a crosswalk, continue to be in effect in both parks. The City of Albany is asking residents to continue to comply with alternate-side parking regulations throughout the City to help facilitate the continued collection of solid waste and recycling as scheduled.

List of Parking Lots Available for Free Parking

Arbor Hill/Sheridan Hollow

• Parking Area Adjoining Arbor Hill Softball Field (North Lark St.)
• 230 Colonie St. (Playground Lot)
• 178 Colonie St. (Playground Lot)
• Ten Broeck Mansion (Parking Lot & Sidewalk West End)

Pine Hills

• Ridgefield Park (Enter on Partridge St.)
• Woodlawn Park Little League
• Washington Park (All Roadways and Parking Areas)

South End

• Krank Park Area
• Franklin St. (Between Schuyler St. & Bassett St. – East Side)
• Lincoln Park (All Interior Roadways & Parking Area - the time-limit restrictions have been lifted effective Tuesday, March 17)

Center Square

• SUNY Albany’s Thurlow Terrace Lot (do not park in designated EV Charger spots unless charging an electronic vehicle)
• Washington Park roads including Henry Johnson Boulevard (the time-limit restrictions have been lifted effective Tuesday, March 17)

North Albany

• North Second St. & North Third St. (Above Pearl St.)
• Parking Area across from North Albany American Legion Post

West End

• Bleecker Stadium (Parking Area & Roadways)
• North Side of Livingston Ave. (Opposite Judson St. Parking Lot)

As of Wednesday, June 3, the Capital Region entered Phase Two of the reopening process. As a result, City of Albany office buildings, car dealerships, hair salons and barbershops, and retail, rental, repair, and cleaning services have been approved to reopen. With Phase Two of reopening process underway, the City of Albany is also preparing for an increase in workers and visitors driving into the City and seeking parking, leading to the reinstatement of various parking regulations and metered parking to better facilitate the parking needs of those that live and operate businesses in Albany. Please see details below on where and when specific changes and regulations will be implemented.

Metered Parking

Beginning Monday, June 8th at 8:00 a.m. metered parking will be reinstated in metered parking zones across the City of Albany. For a map of all metered parking areas in the City, please visit the Park Albany website.

To ensure continued compliance with Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines, the Albany Parking Authority strongly encourages the use of the ParkAlbany App to access and pay for metered parking. The ParkAlbany App is available for both iPhone and Android phones and can be downloaded through the App Store or Google Play. Learn more about the ParkAlbany App.

Additionally, the Albany Parking Authority will continue to wave the $0.05 service fee for all meter payments made through the ParkAlbany app until July 1, 2020.

Time-Limited Parking Regulations

Beginning Monday June 8, all time-limited parking regulations throughout the City of Albany will be reinstated as posted and will be enforced except for the timed regulations posted in Washington Park and Lincoln Park. Time-limit parking regulations will continue to be suspended for both Washington Park and Lincoln Park until the Capital Region is ready to move to Phase Three at which time these exceptions will be reevaluated. 

Parking Garage Rates

Beginning Monday June 15, the Albany Parking Authority’s Downtown garages will reinstate the standard $13.00 max daily parking rate at all three locations (Green-Hudson, Riverfront and Quackenbush). Parking Garage information and locations can be found by visiting the Park Albany website.

The Albany Parking Authority offers Monthly Garage Parking Passes for Downtown residents, commuters, and businesses in need of off-street parking. To learn more please visit: https://www.parkalbany.com/programs-and-promotions

Central Avenue Business – Parking Lot Permits

Beginning Monday June 8, the Central Avenue BID, in conjunction the Albany Parking Authority, will introduce a special parking lot permit program for Central Avenue businesses to help ease the burdens of running their businesses and ensure that customers have parking for their patrons. These passes will be valid for use at the Albany Parking Authority’s Central Avenue Parking Lots 2 through 8 and will be active through July 5, 2020. If you represent a Central Avenue business and are seeking more information, please contact the Central Avenue Business Improvement District by calling 518-462-4300 or via email.

Alternate-Side Parking Rules Remain in Effect

The City of Albany is reminding residents of available off-street parking and asking residents to continue complying with alternate-side parking regulations throughout the City.

Alternate-side parking serves two critical functions:

First, it facilitates the City’s street cleaning operations throughout the city. In dense neighborhoods, street cleaning serves a critical public health role. The build-up of leaves, debris and litter on our streets attracts rodents, and increases the risk that pedestrians, cyclists, and pets are exposed to elements that will adversely impact their health, including microorganisms and viruses. This debris also clogs storm drains, which can result in localized flooding during weather events.

Second, in many neighborhoods, alternate-side parking is also directly related to trash and recycling removal. It is important to note that on many streets, alternate-side parking is necessary to provide room for emergency vehicles to respond to calls for service. On those streets, suspension is simply not possible and now is not the time to create confusion and uncertainty by changing rules on an ad hoc basis.

Apply for NYS Unemployment Insurance now. NYS is waiving the 7-Day waiting period for Unemployment Insurance benefits for people who are out of work due to Coronavirus (COVID-19) closures or quarantines. To file an application for Unemployment Insurance, please visit the Department of Labor website.

IMPORTANT: If you are filing a new Unemployment Insurance claim via phone or web, the day you should file is based on the first letter of your last name:  

• A through F: Monday 
• G through N: Tuesday 
• O through Z: Wednesday 

If you missed your filing day, please claim on Thursday or Friday. Filing later in the week will NOT delay your payments or affect the date of your claim, since all claims are effective on the Monday of the week in which they are filed.

Please see the following chart for more information about what to expect if you are filing for Unemployment Insurance Benefits. 

You may also call the NYS Department of Labor’s Telephone Claim Center, toll-free at 888-209-8124 between 8 am and 5 pm, Monday through Friday, to file a claim.

Assistance for Small Businesses Impacted by COVID-19

On Sunday, March 15, Mayor Kathy Sheehan requested that the President of the Capitalize Albany Corporation coordinate with Albany’s Business Improvement Districts on a business recovery plan for businesses impacted by the closures directed by Governor Cuomo as a result of the spread of COVID-19.  

Local organizations have joined together to provide a clearinghouse of federal, state and local information and resources that become available to support our businesses at this difficult time. 

Visit Support Small Albany for additional information about resources and programs to help businesses as we work together to address the economic fallout of this unprecedented crisis. You can also follow updates on social media using the #SupportsmAlbany hashtag.

In addition to the Federal assistance being processed for business owners, this working group is actively gathering, identifying and developing additional financial assistance and programming to support the needs of Albany’s small businesses. Crucial news to support business owners impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, more resources and guidance issued is available along with a list of open restaurants offering takeout, and takeout parking signs for business owners at Support Small Albany. Please continue checking back for updates.

Financial Assistance for Non-Profits Impacted by COVID-19

The United Way of the Greater Capital Region and Community Foundation of the Greater Capital Region have partnered to create the Capital Region Community COVID-19 Response Fund

The Fund has been established to provide flexible resources to 501c3 organizations working with local communities who are disproportionately impacted by coronavirus and the economic consequences of this outbreak.

To learn more about how to access the funds or how to donate to the fund, please visit the Capital Region Community COVID-19 Response Fund website.

Mortgage Foreclosures and Payments and Other Legal Needs During COVID-19

To meet needs during this challenging time, the Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York (LASNNY) has created a comprehensive COVID-19 Legal Response which includes a legal line and a COVID-19 legal information web page. You can also call 833-628-0087. For information specific to homeowners and mortgages, visit the Home Save website. 

K through 12 School Closures

On Friday, March 13th, the City of Albany Schools closed and they will remain closed through at least March 27th. For more information regarding the closure, please visit the Albany City School District Website.

Higher-Education Closures

SUNY Albany, along with all SUNY and CUNY campuses, has moved to distance-based learning with all in-person classes cancelled beginning on Wednesday, March 19th.

Students facing hardship(s) will be allowed to remain in dormitories through contacting their individual university/college campus administration.

SUNY Albany has launched a COVID-19 website for students and parents alike.

The College of St. Rose has moved to online course delivery through the end of the Spring 2020 Semester. For more information please visit The College of St. Rose website.

Maria College will deliver all courses and educational activities virtually for the remainder of the Spring Semester. For more information please visit the Maria College website.

Albany Law School, has moved to online course delivery through the end of the Spring 2020 Semester. For more information please visit the Albany Law School website.

Albany College of Pharmacy is extending remote instruction through the end of the Spring Semester. For more information please visit the Albany College of Pharmacy website.

SUNY Polytechnic Institute has moved to distance learning through the end of the Spring Semester. For more information please visit the SUNY Polytechnic Institute website.

Library Closures

The Albany Public Library will be closed until further notice.  During the closure, APL patrons will be able to:

Get digital materials — including eBooks, eMagazines, eAudiobooks, eVideos — through our website and corresponding apps for their personal devices. Look for the Libby, OverDrive, and Flipster apps on your device app store; all of them are free. APL is purchasing more eBooks and eAudiobooks that can be borrowed exclusively by APL cardholders.

Access educational and informative databases on APL’s website. 

Get questions answered by staff via phone by dialing 518-217-5601, 518-217-8554 or 518-217-8323 Monday through Friday from 10 am to 6 pm.

Submit questions via email and get answers Monday through Friday from 10 am to 6 pm.

Keep their library materials at home without late fines. No need to return items during the building closure as our return drop boxes are also closed.

Don’t worry about their library cards expiring as we have extended the expiration dates. All APL cardholders will be able to continue to download digital material.

Visit the Albany Public Library website for more information.

Many of our healthcare workers, first responders, and other essential employees rely on public transportation, and it's why we're so thankful that that Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) continues to provide this essential service. 

CDTA is taking every precaution put forth by the CDC and Governor Cuomo. For more information on public transportation during COVID, please visit the CDTA website.

The IRS and New York State postponed federal and state income tax filing deadlines from April 15 to July 15.  Please visit the IRS and NYS Department of Tax and Finance websites for more information.

Due to the Novel Coronavirus, COVID-19 Governor Cuomo has issued an executive order expanding the Tax Commissioner’s authority to abate late filing and payment penalties.

This will allow the Commissioner to abate interest on quarterly and annual sales and use tax filings and remittances with a due date of March 20, 2020, for those who were unable to timely file and pay as result of the COVID-19 virus. 

To view the guidance issued, visit N-20-1, Announcement Regarding the Abatement of Penalties and Interest for Sales and Use Tax due to the Novel Coronavirus, COVID-19. 

For additional information, visit Tax Department response to novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Borrowers with federal student loans will automatically have their interest rates set to 0% for a period of at least 60 days effective March 20, 2020.  In addition, borrowers will have the option to suspend their payments without accruing interest for at least two months.  Please visit the US Department of Education website for more information.

New York Attorney General Letitia James took action to protect millions of New Yorkers and block debt collectors from raiding billions of dollars in emergency stimulus payments authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). Attorney General James issued official guidance to New York State banking institutions, creditors, and debt collectors, making clear that financial relief provided through stimulus payments are exempt from garnishment under New York law (PDF). The CARES Act authorized the U.S. Department of Treasury to send billions of dollars to Americans struggling as a result of the economic fallout of COVID-19 public health crisis, but these emergency stimulus payments were not designated as exempt from garnishment, allowing debt collectors to potentially benefit before consumers.

NYS Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offices are are now available for limited in-person transactions at state-run DMV offices in regions that are in at least Phase 3 of reopening. Reservations will be required and will only be offered for a limited number of critical services that cannot be done online or by mail or drop box. For more information visit the NYSDMV website.

The Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York (LASNNY) has created a comprehensive COVID-19 Legal Response which includes a Legal Line (833-628-0087) and a COVID-19 Legal Information Web Page. This initiative is meeting the urgent civil legal needs of low income people in the 16 counties they serve. Equal justice under law means that everyone facing a serious civil legal problem because of this crisis, should receive the legal information, advice, brief service and representation they need. 

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA)  Toll-free Helpline (866-232-8484) remains open to help families impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia illnesses during this time. This is especially important because the outbreak is causing many people, particularly higher risk individuals such as senior citizens, to break from their normal routines and isolate. The Toll-Free Helpline is open seven days a week and staffed entirely by licensed social workers who are trained in dementia care. Families can connect with the AFA Helpline by phone: 866-232-8484, via website chat by visiting the Alzheimer's Foundation of America website and clicking on the blue and white chat icon on the lower right hand corner of the page, by sending a text message to 646-586-5283. The web and text chat features are available in more than 90 languages.

National Grid Will Not Disconnect for Non-Payment

National Grid is suspending the collection of bill payments for 90 days. Learn more on the National Grid website.

Spectrum Will Not Disconnect for Non-Payment

Learn more on the Spectrum website.

Spectrum Provides Free Wi-Fi for Households with Students

Charter will offer free access to Spectrum broadband and Wi-Fi for 60-days for K-12 and college student households for distance-based learning. To enroll call 1–844–488–8395. Installation fees will be waived for new student households.  Learn more on the Spectrum website.

At&T Will Not Disconnect for Non-Payment

AT&T will not cut-off the service of any wireless, home phone or broadband residential or small business customer because of their inability to pay their bill due to disruptions caused by COVID-19

New York State of Health has announced a Special Enrollment period for uninsured individuals to ease COVID-19 fears. Please visit the New York State of Health website now through April 15 to enroll today.  You may call 855-355-5777 if you have any questions.

At the beginning of NY PAUSE, Governor Cuomo called on health care professionals, schools of public health or medicine and PPE products providers and manufacturers to come forward to support the state’s response because we are #StrongerTogether. Learn how you can help.

Blood Donations

The Red Cross is still looking for volunteers to donate blood - please visit RedCrossBlood.org to make an appointment.

Blood Plasma Donations

Under Dr. McKenna’s leadership, Albany Med has also announced that they are among the first hospitals in the country to use convalescent blood plasma therapy to experimentally treat critically ill COVID-19 patients.

As part of this initiative, Albany Med is seeking plasma donors for further research. Eligible donors must be fully recovered from COVID-19 with no symptoms for at least 14 days.

Potential donors may call (518) 262-9340 to learn more.

Help Provide Meals for Albany's Children

Help provide meals for students - Help our kids get meals while the schools are closed. Albany City Schools are in need of 36 volunteers per day Monday-Friday for the next two weeks to ensure that kids can get "grab and go" meals at 7 different sites. Sign up here. 

Please only volunteer if you are well, symptom free, and have been practicing social distancing. Volunteers are needed at the following sites: 

• Albany School of Humanities (ASH)
• Arbor Hill Elementary School
• Giffen Elementary School
• Schuyler Achievement Academy
• Tony Clements Center for Education
• William S. Hackett Middle School

Help volunteer as a member of the Albany County Medical Reserve Corps (MRC): The Albany County Medical Reserve Corps enhances the county’s emergency preparedness efforts by ensuring a trained group of healthcare professionals and community volunteers are ready to assist the county in response to a public health emergency.  For more information please visit the Albany County Department of Health’s website.

Help Us Reach More People: AVillage and the Radix Center are looking for Block Ambassadors to help spread information such as this and make sure everybody on their block is safe and has their needs met. With funding available and the crisis over later this year, the Ambassador role could expand into a paid role — outreach to get our Census count up, to make sure everybody is registered and votes, and to organize their block for new gardens and to address quality of life issues.

If you're are interested contact Kevin VanNess at 518-421-8817 or the AVillage office at 518-451-9849 or via email.