The new building is expected to create hundreds of construction and other private sector jobs and preserve 1,700 state jobs in the downtown area. The new facility for the State Comptroller will provide modern, more efficient facilities for our state employees and will encourage additional private sector development in downtown corridors. That new building will mean new construction jobs, and more people shopping and eating in Albany. But most importantly, it will mean better service for the taxpayers of this state.
Any office is limited by antiquated computers and equipment.
This new building is our biggest piece of equipment, and it will help our agency grow more efficient and effective. This was a collaborative effort, and I'd like to thank Mayor Jennings, Governor Pataki, Senator Bruno, Assembly Speaker Silver, the Dormitory Authority, OGS and the builders for making this happen. This new building not only will bring new life to downtown, but will benefit the entire state by saving taxpayers money and making operations more efficient. The Alfred E. Smith State Office Building, which currently houses the majority of OSC employees, was built in 1930 and has not undergone major rehabilitation in more than 30 years. We must build on this historical role by making wise investments that will result in long-term benefits for Albany and the entire Capital Region.