Schenectady County Approves New Development Projects

Metroplex Development Authority greenlights apartment renovations, hardware store, and more across the county

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Schenectady Metroplex Development Authority approved four new projects throughout Schenectady County on Wednesday night, including plans to renovate a former nursing home into 16 apartments, turn a vacant retail space into an ACE Hardware store and distribution facility, demolish a vacant school to build up to 27 single-family homes, and explore a trail connection between two counties.

Why it matters

These new development projects are part of Schenectady County's ongoing efforts to revitalize underused properties, invest in infrastructure, and strengthen its neighborhoods and economic future. The Metroplex Development Authority plays a key role in facilitating these types of impactful initiatives across the county.

The details

In Scotia, Metroplex is helping renovate the former Scotia Mansion Nursing Home into 16 apartments, with $1.5 million in renovations including new siding, roofing, windows, and interior work. In Rotterdam, Metroplex is assisting in turning a vacant Office Max into a new ACE Hardware store and distribution facility for a local family-owned business, with a $5 million project budget. Metroplex also approved the demolition of the vacant Glenhaven Elementary School in Glenville to make way for up to 27 new single-family homes. Additionally, Metroplex is contributing funding to explore a trail connection between the Empire State Trail in Schenectady County and the Zim Smith Trail in Saratoga County.

  • The Scotia nursing home renovation project is expected to take 12 to 18 months.
  • The Rotterdam ACE Hardware project was approved on Wednesday, February 12, 2026.

The players

Schenectady Metroplex Development Authority

The lead economic development agency in Schenectady County, responsible for approving and facilitating these new development projects.

Hatchet Hardware

A family-owned business and authorized ACE Hardware dealer that is opening a new store and distribution facility in Rotterdam.

Michael Roman and Ryan Lucey

Developers who purchased the former Glenhaven Elementary School property in Glenville and plan to redevelop it with up to 27 new single-family homes.

Gary Hughes

Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature, commenting on the importance of these development projects for the county's future.

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What they’re saying

“Revitalizing underused properties and investing in infrastructure are critical to Schenectady County's future. Metroplex continues to move important projects forward that strengthen our neighborhoods and position our county for long-term success.”

— Gary Hughes, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature (news10.com)

What’s next

The Schenectady Metroplex Development Authority will continue to oversee and facilitate the progress of these approved development projects across Schenectady County in the coming months and years.

The takeaway

Schenectady County is leveraging the Metroplex Development Authority to drive impactful revitalization efforts, from repurposing vacant properties into new housing and businesses to investing in critical infrastructure like trail connections. These initiatives demonstrate the county's commitment to strengthening its communities and positioning itself for long-term economic success.