ALBANY MAYORAL

CANDIDATE QUESTIONNAIRE

Albany Bicycle Coalition, Capital Streets & Walkable Albany worked together to ask each of the Albany Mayoral Candidates questions relating to walkability, bikeability, transit, and overall livable streets issues.

Each candidate was asked over a dozen pertinent questions in a written questionnaire, and will be taking part in a live candidate forum on Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025 that relate to these issues, as well.

You can register and submit a question for the forum here.

  • Albany Chief City Auditor, Democratic candidate for Mayor, mom, and public health professional.

  • Design Director

    Carolyn is currently serving her second term representing the residents of Albany County’s 1st Legislative District. Albany Native, 30+ years of public service.

  • Albany native. Proven leader. Democratic candidate for Mayor of Albany.

  • Corey was first elected Albany Common Council President in 2018 and was re-elected in 2022. Before that, he served as a Common Council member from 2006 to 2009, representing the Arbor Hill, Sheridan Hollow, and Ten Broeck Triangle neighborhoods, as well as parts of West Hill.

What neighborhood do you live in?

Applyrs: Ten Broeck Triangle

McLaughlin: South End (Ward #1)

Cerutti: Pine Hills

Ellis: Pine Hills

How often (days per week) do you walk to where you need to go? What issues do you notice?

Applyrs: I walk around Albany daily, which has given me a deep appreciation for our City. I also notice the challenges we face. As a mother of two young children, I am concerned about certain busy intersections and parts of our City that lack crosswalks or working “beg buttons.” Albany should be a place where parents feel comfortable with their children playing outside.

McLaughlin: I regularly walk 3 to 4 times a week, but had to stop after sustaining an injury on uneven pavement.

Cerutti: I walk for exercise a few times a week. During Covid I walked 5-6 miles a day every other day, across the entire city. As I considered how I could help Albany, the effort of walking in every area of the city became my vehicle for connecting with neighborhoods and people.

Growing up in Albany, I never had a car. I traveled around the entire city by bike. Most mornings for three years, I rode my bike to deliver newspapers. In the fall for several years, I rode 2.5 miles to Hoffman Park to play for the Albany city teams. Over the years, I believe I have been on almost every street in the city.

Ellis: I often walk from my office to meetings. When walking I mostly notice people. As a public figure, people often stop me on the street to engage me in a conversation.  If I notice a quality of Life or Public Safety issue, I call it in right away, then follow up to make sure it has been addressed.

Do you use, or have you ever used, a bicycle for something other than recreation (such as commuting, running errands, or replacing car trips) in the City of Albany? If so, what issues do you notice?

Applyrs: I typically ride a bike for recreational purposes. I walk or drive to work or events in Albany.

McLaughlin: No, I do not use a bicycle at all.

Cerutti: I no longer use a bike to get around.

Ellis: I have used the CDTA bikes a couple of times to test them out, but I generally do not bike in the city.

How often do you use public transit? What strengths and issues do you notice?

Applyrs: While I have used public transit in Albany, I would not claim to be a frequent user. In Washington, DC, where I grew up, I was a frequent user of the train system. In Albany, I am fortunate to live within walking distance to work and our downtown.

McLaughlin: I do not personally use public transit but there is a bus service available just up the street from where I live. From what I have observed, its convenient for those without access to a car and it helps reduce traffic and pollution.

Cerutti: I rarely use public transportation anymore, although when I was younger, I took the bus to and from work and school quite often. I have always considered the CDTA a well-run organization. I have met with them and the union recently and have some understanding of their challenges around Albany.

Ellis: Unfortunately I do not use public transportation a great deal on my day to day. When I do use public transportation, I mostly notice the people. However, I also am acutely aware of how many drivers do not pay attention to pedestrians and cyclists.

In 2022, 60 vulnerable road users (defined by NYSDOT as “pedestrians, cyclists, motorized wheelchair users, and those on foot within work zones”) were killed or seriously injured in Albany County– at the time, that was the most in any one year since the Institute for Traffic Safety Management & Research (ITSMR) began tracking data for New York. But that record high was broken in 2023, when 65 vulnerable road users were killed or seriously injured. How would you protect residents from dangerous roads in the City of Albany?

Applyrs: These statistics display a desperately urgent need for action. As a public health professional, I recognize that traffic crashes are a public health issue. Pedestrian safety is public safety. To ensure greater safety and accessibility in our City, it’s essential we make investments in our built environment that prioritize the safety and mobility of all of its residents. While serving on the Albany Common Council, I was proud to be the lead architect of Albany’s Equity Agenda legislation, which examined the allocation of City resources towards improvements to our built environment across neighborhoods.

Additionally, one of my proudest accomplishments as a Common Council member was spearheading the efforts to introduce a 25 MPH speed limit in Albany’s South End, following a horrific pedestrian-auto accident. As Chief City Auditor, I have continued to voice my support for pedestrian safety measures, including the adoption of school zone speed cameras and lower citywide speed limits.

As your mayor, I will commit to investing in infrastructure that promotes walkable and bikeable neighborhoods, including well-maintained sidewalks, protected bike lanes, visible crosswalks, traffic calming measures, and accessible trail systems. These improvements not only make everyday travel safer and more convenient but also foster economic growth by creating vibrant, people-centered spaces that attract visitors, businesses, and investment.

Prioritizing these types of upgrades will send a powerful message: that Albany values the health, safety, and well-being of all its residents, not just drivers.

McLaughlin: This is a very sobering and urgent statistic. The rising number of vulnerable road users killed or seriously injured in Albany demands bold, targeted action. Albany should join other cities like NYC, Boston, and D.C. in committing to Vision Zero. The goal of eliminating traffic deaths and serious injuries entirely!

By instituting Key elements:

• Publicly commit to the goal

• Form a multi-agency task force (with the local police department, school districts and public health advocates)

• Create a data-driven action plan with annual progress reports

Cerutti: Increase ENFORCEMENT of speed limits and traffic laws

Ellis: As a council member I have advocated for reduced speeds in school zones and the installation of bike lanes. I have also advocated for many of our larger streets (where speeding is an issue) to be converted into “boulevards.” Creating boulevards automatically slows traffic and provides residents with a safe space to walk and bike. It also increases the quality of life of the surrounding residents.

Do you support the use of funds from school zone speed camera tickets for traffic calming infrastructure around schools? What street improvements could help keep children safe on their way to and from school?

Applyrs: I support the school zone speed camera program, and I have published a commentary in the Times Union advocating for this program, titled “Speed cameras are an important part of Albany's traffic safety plan.”

We must not lose sight of the primary goal of this program - to reduce speeding and prevent traffic fatalities. When I was a Common Councilmember in Albany’s First Ward, a young boy was struck by a car, and I fought tirelessly to lower the speed limit on that street to ensure this tragedy could not repeat itself. As Albany’s mayor, I will absolutely use our City’s budget to make infrastructure improvements that center and protect people.

McLaughlin: Yes, using school zone speed camera revenue to improve traffic safety near schools is widely supported by urban planners, public health advocates, and many communities. Reinvesting in speed camera into the neighborhoods being monitored builds fairness and trust. It also saves lives — especially those of young kids, disabled pedestrians, and elderly residents who are most vulnerable in fast-moving traffic environments. Street improvements like raised crosswalks, curb extensions, better lighting and protected bike lanes can all help make school zones safer.

Cerutti: I would not tie calming infrastructure improvements to speeding ticket revenue. The actions should be taken based on data that demonstrates quantifiable improvements.

The most obvious improvement that I can see with my limited background would be (re)considering crossing guards. I have spoken with many parents who have advocated for them.

Ellis: The funds from the school zone speed cameras should be used for a variety of public safety and quality of life initiatives.

As previously mentioned, I am a strong advocate for creating boulevards which include a safe space for pedestrians and cyclists. There are also many neighborhoods which still do not have sidewalks for children to walk to school on. This needs to be addressed.

Additionally, we should be setting funds aside for quality of life officers. I have proposed the city hire quality of life officers (aka peer advocates). These individuals would work in conjunction with our police department to provide support for individuals

Do you support State Senator Pat Fahy’s bill to designate 7 acres of the Harriman Campus for mixed-use, transit-oriented development? In what other ways will you promote affordable and transit-oriented development in the City of Albany?

Applyrs: I support Senator Fahy’s initiative. Albany has a long history of being used for state office space. It is past time that the residents of our City get to have a say in how their community is shaped. I am strong supporter of smart, new mixed-use development.

It is no secret that we are experiencing a housing crisis. Increasing density near public transit can help solve this issue while also reducing reliance on personal vehicles. We need to use a multi-pronged approach to increase transit-oriented development, including relaxing zoning restrictions near transit stops, increasing our use of office conversions, and incentivizing housing development throughout Albany.

McLaughlin: I agree with the FY24 TOD planning grants to support community efforts to improve access to public transportation. I believe strongly that this could help the city of Albany effectively address transportation projects that connect communities and improve access. Other things we can work on: zoning updates and better access to transit corridors, as well as working with private partnerships to develop properties closer to low- income housing.

Cerutti: Yes

Ellis: I support the development of the Harriman Campus. We have an opportunity to not only  create additional housing and retail on the campus, which would boost our tax base, it would also provide a critical to the surrounding neighborhoods. 

By providing housing and retail (which includes a small market), the campus could potentially create a walkable community, within the community. Often, projects like these do not take into consideration affordable housing for our residents. Many of our recent college graduates, as well as entry level workers are often priced out of Albany’s housing market. I believe the redevelopment of the campus should include an affordable housing component to entice our residents and our recent college graduates to work and live in Albany. 

As Mayor I would work with CDTA, as well as our partners in the State and around the Capital Region, to create accessibility to the campus. Residents from all of our neighborhoods should be able to access the campus with ease via public transportation, or pedestrian corridors.

What is your vision for the future of Albany's riverfront and I-787?

Applyrs: Albany and its residents should have access to one of its most valuable resources - the Hudson River. Reclaiming our waterfront is a key component of my Downtown Revitalization Plan.

There are several proposals to reimagine our waterfront and downtown. My goal as mayor will be to secure the funding required to make these projects happen, and fight to include the communities that make up our downtown in the decision-making process.

McLaughlin: Albany’s riverfront should be a thriving public space. A place to walk, bike, gather, live, and celebrate the city’s connection to the Hudson River. The city of Troy has done this with some real success. The future of our downtown will depend on transforming or removing I-787, which currently acts as a concrete barrier separating neighborhoods from the waterfront and each other- especially in the South End where I grew up and currently live.

The water front will need a bold but Achievable Transformation Plan:

• Remove or Depress Sections of I-787 reclaim that space for parks, housing, and commercial/entertainment activity.

• Consider a surface-level, green, multimodal corridor that slows traffic and increases accessibility.

• Create a World-Class Riverwalk & Park/activities system.

• Expand the beautify Corning Preserve with new trails, garden areas, kayak launches, shaded seating for picnics and concerts, as well as event space, food vendors, open lawns, and public art exhibits.

• A green buffer between new roadways and residential areas.

Cerutti: I support the NYS DOT project to Reimagine I-787. I am optimistic because the timeframes and budgets are realistic. I do not favor drastic changes. But I would favor removing the elevated highway in the South End and opening more access to the River. However, I do not believe that revitalization of downtown Albany should depend or can wait on the I-787 project. We just need to work together. I also want to open up access to the Hudson River at the Eric Canal Lock One adjacent to the Central Warehouse parcel.

Ellis: I have been working with Re-Imagine Albany and our partners at DOT, to come up with a viable redevelopment plan for 787.  It is imperative that we reconnect our downtown with the riverfront to ensure accessibility to the water for all of our residents. I would like all of our residents to have a seat at the table when planning and implementing the Riverfront project. The plan should benefit our residents in the South End, Arbor Hill and North Albany. It should also include an inviting recreation area for visitors and residents alike. 

I would like to see additional accessibility and access points for pedestrians, boaters and cyclists. Additional amenities, be it retail or recreation,  would also help attract more people to the riverfront. When I think of our downtown and the riverfront, as Mayor, I want to create a space where people want to stay. It should be walkable, safe, inviting, contain recreation and retail, and should be family friendly. Several proposals offered by the Albany Waterfront Project which include reopening Lock One and creating a water link into downtown would create a destination for both residents and tourists. 

In order to reconnect our waterfront to our neighborhoods, we need to think big and bold. We need to look at the whole picture, and not just look at small piecemeal projects. We need to make sure all of our neighborhoods benefit. And whatever we do we need to make sure it is environmentally and financially sustainable.

In 2021, the City of Albany published its Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. The plan provides many options to drastically improve conditions in Albany, but the City has made very little progress on implementation. How, if elected, will you work to put the concepts in the existing plan into action?

Applyrs: I was proud to see a bill I passed cited in the final master plan - the Equity Agenda. That law is a guide for how our City government must invest in infrastructure in Albany. As Chief City Auditor, I conducted the first ever Equity Audit. Implementing this master plan is a natural extension of this work. As mayor, I will fight to secure funding for the implementation of this plan, and include the relevant portions of this plan in the budget’s capital plan.

McLaughlin: We already have the blueprint, it is time to build, not just talk. As Mayor I would:

• Prioritize Projects in the Budget. By championing a dedicated line item in the city budget for pedestrian and bicycle improvements.

• Focus on High-Impact projects. Target areas where bike/pedestrian improvements will:

- Connect neighborhoods.

- Prevent injuries (based on crash data)

- Support underserved communities - especially in the South End, Arbor Hill, and West Hill.

Cerutti: I do not know enough to understand why little progress has been made. I would like to understand the details. I am open to revisiting the proposals. Independent of the 2021 Plan, I strongly favor increasing the walkability in downtown Albany and consider that objective paramount in any revitalization plans. I also believe that linking neighborhoods and ensuring that no neighborhood is isolated relative to pedestrian traffic is vital. I lived in Boston for 25 years and experienced transformations around the “Big Dig” that dramatically improved downtown Boston.

Ellis: The Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan is going to take time and a shift in how we look at public transportation. Realistically, this will not happen overnight. However,  as we reinvest in our infrastructure we need to make sure each time we pave a new street, or redesign a sidewalk we take into consideration safety, convenience and accessibility for all of our residents. We need to make sure we are creating safe, inviting and accessible corridors for pedestrians, residents with limited mobility, cyclists, public transportation and motorists. We need to educate our residents on street safety and alternative transportation. It will take time, but it will happen.

How will you support the City of Albany’s newly reorganized Department of Engineering in its implementation of Complete Streets design principles on Albany’s streets?

Applyrs: Albany is a growing city, and I was pleased to see the creation of this new department. I am generally in agreement with your proposal to add an engineer that specializes in pedestrian infrastructure. Additionally, I agree that Albany should take a more robust approach to its commitment to complete streets. As you noted in your priorities document, audits my office have conducted show that there is great room for improvement when it comes to street redesigns, especially in historically disinvested wards in our city.

McLaughlin: The Department of Engineering is no longer just about pavement, it is about people and how they traverse our city. As a Mayor, I will champion their mission to build streets that work for everyone- not just cars. I will support the Department of Engineering in fully implementing Complete Streets principles:

• Advocate for sustained funding in the annual budget for traffic calming, sidewalk repair, pedestrian safety, and protected bike lanes.

• Connect the department with the community by listening to residents through town halls, neighborhood meeting and walk audits.

• If we’re already digging up a street, we should be adding a crosswalk, widening a sidewalk, or installing a bike lane. We cannot afford to do the job halfway.

I see the Department of Engineering as partners in building a better quality of life in Albany. I will make sure they have the tools, support, and political will to design the kind of city Albany deserves.

Cerutti: The Department will have my support. I don’t have enough detail to understand what exact support the Department needs relative to Complete Street designs. The principles are good and they are now law.

Ellis: As previously mentioned, we need to work with all of our partners in the State, and surrounding region to create a safe, sustainable, accessible and walkable city. As mayor, I will make sure we consider safe and convenient access for all ages and abilities when redesigning corridors, paving roadways, or installing sidewalks. Safe lanes, speed, striping, crosswalks, signage and lighting need to be part of each project.

Do you support fully funding all remaining components of the Washington Park Complete Streets Study once the recently awarded grant funds run out?

Applyrs: Yes

McLaughlin: Yes. Washington Park is not just a jewel of Albany — it is a central space for recreation, culture, transportation, theater, and community gathering. That means its surrounding streets should reflect our values of safety, access, and inclusion- however we travel. Even with recent grant funding, much of the vision in the Washington Park Complete Streets Study remains unfunded. As Mayor I will work hard to include:

• Safer pedestrian crossings

• Protected bike lanes

• Traffic-calming on surrounding streets (Madison Ave, Willett, New Scotland)

• ADA improvements and accessibility upgrades

• Greener, more sustainable infrastructure

Cerutti: Again, I’d like to learn more about the details, and I do agree that investing in and improving Washington Park should be a priority. The Park is a treasure.

Ellis: Washington Park is one of our city’s gems. I support any project which preserves the park, while making it more accessible to all of our residents. As mayor, I will work with our city engineers, traffic and safety, the surrounding neighborhoods and businesses and the Washington Park Conservancy to come up with the best way to implement improvements to the park.

Are you familiar with quick-build infrastructure, and do you support its usage to keep Albany residents safe in cases where funding isn’t yet available for permanent street redesign?

Applyrs: I am familiar with quick-builds. I believe that this temporary infrastructure can save lives. I hope to work with you to implement these projects as mayor.

McLaughlin: Yes. I absolutely support using quick-build infrastructure to protect Albany residents, especially when permanent redesigns are not yet fully funded. Our residents cannot afford to wait years for safer streets and with quick-build tools, we don’t have to. Every life saved, every injury prevented, makes a temporary fix worth it. Things like:

  • Paint and striping

  • Planters, cones, or bollards

  • Modular barriers

  • Temporary curb extensions or bike lanes

  • Pilot ideas

  • Test community response

This would allow us to make real improvements without waiting for major construction funds. These improvements are flexible, reversible, and data-driven, allowing the city to expand use of Quick-Build in High-Risk Areas. It would empower the Department of Engineering to Identify 5–10 quick-build priority zones each year, measure success and adapt as needed.

Cerutti: Yes, I am familiar with the concept, and I like it. The approach is not inconsistent with "agile” methodologies that have been part of innovation efforts by teams that I have led for many years.

Ellis: Yes. Albany has begun to implement this throughout the city, and it has been successful. It is a positive first step to redesigning a more sustainable and accessible city for all of our residents.

How do you plan to reduce emissions from transportation (which account for 30% of Albany's total emissions) to support the City’s efforts to meet its Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) goal of reducing overall emissions by 40% by 2030?

Applyrs: Albany is making progress toward reducing emissions. As mayor, I will continue to expand the City’s electric vehicle fleet, and invest in green spaces in our City.

Further, buildings are a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, and it is worth exploring programs such as building energy efficiency ratings.

McLaughlin: As Mayor I will implement sustainability initiatives which will be a cornerstone of my administration. The best practices for sustainability in Albany will involve both bold actions and careful planning to ensure that we meet our carbon reduction goals while enhancing quality of life for residents.

• Set Concrete Targets for Converting Municipal Fleets to Clean Energy Vehicles

• I would set a goal and establishing a clear timeline for transitioning Albany's municipal fleet to hybrid, electric, or other clean energy vehicles. This could involve a phased plan where, for example, 30% of municipal vehicles are electric or hybrid within 5 years, 50% within 10 years, and 100% within 15 years. By setting specific, measurable targets, we ensure transparency and accountability, making it easier to track progress and adjust strategies as needed.

• Fleet Assessment. One of my first actions would be to conduct a comprehensive audit of all city-owned vehicles to assess their fuel usage, environmental impact, and potential for replacement with cleaner alternatives. This audit would help identify the vehicles that should be prioritized for replacement, such as high-emission diesel trucks or older, inefficient vehicles.

• Enhancing Infrastructure for Sustainable Transportation

• Electric Vehicle (EV) & Charging Stations. To further promote electric vehicle adoption, I would work with private companies as well as state and federal agencies to prioritize the installation of EV charging infrastructure throughout Albany, especially near transit hubs, parking garages, and commercial areas. By making it easy and convenient for residents to charge their EVs.

• Pedestrian and Bike-Friendly Infrastructure: Complementing efforts to reduce emissions from vehicles, I would push for expanding and improving pedestrian walkways and bike lanes. These changes would make it safer and easier for residents to choose sustainable modes of transportation, such as walking or biking, while reducing traffic congestion and pollution.

Cerutti: I do not yet know enough about the details to take a position.

Ellis: As mayor, I can commit to reducing our city vehicle emissions by switching many of our vehicles over to electric or hybrid models. We will apply for grants to help our public transportation partners purchase cleaner busses, invest in more alternative transportation methods, add additional commuter routes, and make it more economical and convenient for our residents to use public transportation. 

We also need to invest in education and increase safer pedestrian and cyclist corridors.

How will you ensure the City of Albany implements what has been recommended for our streets and public spaces in the extensive catalog of commissioned climate resiliency plans?

Applyrs: While serving as the First Ward Councilmember, I advocated against the “bomb trains” in Albany’s South End. That gave me the understanding that creating climate resilience is an enormous undertaking. It requires working with community organizations, as well as our local, state, and federal partners. As mayor, I am committed to making our neighborhoods clean, safe, and healthy.

We are fortunate to have a robust Sustainability Commission that I will work closely with to implement these plans.

McLaughlin: Measuring and Reporting Progress

• Regular Reporting: I would ensure transparency in our sustainability goals by publishing regular progress reports. These reports would track key metrics such as reductions in emissions, the number of clean energy vehicles in the municipal fleet, ridership on public transportation, and the installation of green infrastructure. This allows us to stay accountable to our targets and make data-driven adjustments when necessary.

Cerutti: I don’t know enough yet to have a position. I would like to understand how and what the administration has done relative to the many studies and plans over the past 12 years.

Ellis:  I am fully committed to implementing environmentally sustainable infrastructure throughout the city. Sustainability has to be a part of every major decision made within the city in order for us to move forward.

What do you see as the biggest problems facing vulnerable road users on Albany's streets, and how do you plan to address them?

Applyrs: A major issue for vulnerable road users is simply feeling safe while crossing the street. Many pedestrians are not physically able to run or jump out of the way of a turning vehicle. In most intersections in Albany, drivers are given a green light that allows them to turn into pedestrians, who also have a walk sign. A relatively easy fix is to install more leading pedestrian intervals at crossings in our City.

McLaughlin: Vulnerable road users in the Capital Region—such as pedestrians, cyclists, and individuals with mobility challenges—face significant challenges, including:

• Unsafe Crossings

• Lack of Dedicated Infrastructure

• Poor Lighting

• High Vehicle Speeds

• Accessibility Barriers

Cerutti: Speeding and reckless motorists, and old or poorly designed roads and walkways. The first thing I want to do is begin to enforce speed limits, especially in areas of risk or abuse. I favor the use of technology to help achieve the objectives. But a visible police presence can also be a deterrent. Stepping back, I suspect the city will benefit from a more comprehensive view of the issues and potential solutions.

Ellis: Many times we do not take into consideration ALL of the people who use our sidewalks and roadways. This is particularly the case in lower income neighborhoods, and along main thoroughfares like Central Avenue. As a city it is our responsibility to look out for our most vulnerable populations. This means safe and accessible sidewalks, convenient and affordable access to public transportation, well lit street scapes, safe corridors. 

It will take time, but under my administration, as the city repaves, re-designs, or implements changes in the streetscape, we will make sure safety, accessibility and convenience take precedence. The city already has completed a street and sidewalk inventory. Now we need to use that inventory to begin addressing critical issues.  

Describe a time you had a wonderful transit experience, whether in Albany or outside the Capital Region. What went into making that experience memorable? How can you work to match those experiences locally?

Applyrs: Washington, DC has excellent public transit and infrastructure that I believe can serve as a model for cities like Albany. A barrier for many to ride their bike in Albany is that they feel our streets are unsafe. Cities like DC have made large investments in protected bike lanes are more accessible for new cyclists.

McLaughlin: One of my most memorable transit experiences was during a visit to Washington, D.C., where I used their Metro system extensively. What stood out to me was the seamless connectivity between neighborhoods, the cleanliness of the stations, and the reliability of the service. The system was designed with the user in mind—clear signage, frequent trains, and accessibility features that ensured everyone could navigate with ease. It wasn’t just a mode of transportation; it felt like the backbone of the city, connecting people to opportunities, culture, and community.

I envision creating a transit system here in Albany that mirrors these qualities. By investing in reliable and frequent bus services, improving pedestrian and bike infrastructure around transit hubs, and ensuring accessibility for all residents, we can make public transportation a cornerstone of our city’s growth.

Cerutti: I have used public transportation in Boston, New York City, Atlanta, Chicago and other US cities since college. I have also used systems in the UK, Belgium, China, Japan and other countries around the world. Public transportation is my preferred way to experience a city. I cannot think of any experiences that were not good.

The CDTA is an excellent system. But Albany has limited options. My vision is to make Albany the destination in upstate NY. The key is attractions, and walkability is part of making a city attractive. Moving people between attractions should be another goal. That is where special public transit, such as trolleys, might be an option.

Ellis: One of the most remarkable experiences with public transportation I have had is in Europe. Because of how cities are designed, they are very walkable and easy to get around via public transportation. The trains, trams and buses run on time. Routes are easy to navigate. And access points are convenient. 

Our current public transportation system is good. CDTA provides a clean, safe and sustainable service. They are working with their partners throughout the capital region to expand routes, and they even offer special services like the nature bus.

However, there are ways to improve our transportation system. I would like to see:

  • More park and ride access points

  • A tram loop for downtown. This would eliminate the perceived parking problem, would make downtown more pedestrian friendly, and would make our venues and shops more accessible while reducing traffic and emissions

  • CDTA work with businesses that have early morning and late night shifts. Many of our bus riders work jobs that begin before the buses begin running so they are forced to take an Uber to work. If we could create a route to serve

How would you work to change our streets and public spaces to make our communities more liveable for people of all ages and abilities?

Applyrs: I am running for mayor to activate Albany’s potential.. A vibrant community is one where people of all ages and abilities feel welcomed, connected, and safe. To achieve this, we must prioritize streets and public spaces that are accessible and people-centered. With my commitment to investing in pedestrian infrastructure and putting the public back in public safety, every resident of our city will benefit. Specifically, I am committed to enhancing our spaces for all by:

Implementing the Safe Passage Program in Albany to ensure the safety and well-being of students as they travel to and from school.

Expanding the City of Albany Ambassador Program with full-time, local hires in each business district to greet visitors, clean streets, and report issues.

Prioritizing the development of sidewalks, protected bike lanes, crosswalks, and trail systems to enhance overall accessibility and make our communities more livable.

Investing in Albany’s youth, arts, and culture to increase meaningful opportunities, community identity, and economic vitality.

McLaughlin: My vision is to create a livable city. One where a grandparent can cross the street safely with a grandchild or a child can ride their bike to school. Where a person using a wheelchair can navigate the sidewalk with ease without the fear of running into a street without safe sidewalks. That is the Albany I am fighting for- a city where everyone belongs and can access our streets and public spaces.

Cerutti: As Mayor, I will start by being an advocate. But the real work may be in balancing “livability” objectives with financial realities. My sense is that there have been good intentions in the City of Albany, but things simply don’t get done. I have a long history of managing budgets, many on the order of the size of Albany’s city budget ($200M+), and an excellent track record of investing in the future while still delivering on annual commitments. One thing I have learned is that modest investments year after year and persistence is a good formula for sustainable change.

Ellis: Albany has a rich history, beautiful parks, unique architecture and a diverse population of residents. We have the foundation of a great city, yet somehow we haven't achieved greatness. As mayor it is my goal to create a city in which all of our residents thrive. One of the best ways to achieve this is by redeveloping our streetscapes and green spaces. When we address quality of life issues, like lighting, safe sidewalks, accessibility for all ages and abilities, and adding or improving green spaces our city becomes safer and more inviting. When we invest in green spaces, parks, recreation areas and provide our residents access to our waterways our city grows and people begin taking pride in where they live and play. When we look at the big picture and long term viability, and sustainability, we will start to grow in a positive direction. And when we do these things equitably - so ALL of our residents have access to these amenities and resources- our city will become a great city.