We are residents of Schenectady, NY who believe our city should be developed in a responsible manner. We believe that the safety and well being of our residents and the prosperity of our small businesses should not be compromised by irresponsible real estate development or hindered by political corruption.

We formed after hearing of developers who were granted permission to build a Starbucks with a drive-thru across the street from First Prize Mike’s on Erie Boulevard, the busiest downtown street with an average of over 16,000 vehicles passing through daily. Drive-thrus are not permitted downtown.

The development of the Starbucks was also made possible by the Board of Zoning Appeals who previously denied the developers bid, but granted it after a six year battle with little public input and following a backdoor meeting with the mayor and the city’s top attorney.

We believe that the developers acted in bad faith and the city’s officials failed to consider whether the drive-thru Starbucks will impede the city’s mission to make downtown inviting and walkable to pedestrians and visitors.

If you share the belief that downtown Schenectady is becoming less inviting and walkable, consider joining us. Help us tell the City of Schenectady that we want better, responsible development now and for years to come.