Groundbreaking Celebration Held for Syracuse’s Almus Olver Towers Renovation

On April 3, 2025, McCormack Baron Salazar, the Syracuse Housing Authority, the City of Syracuse, and the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal held a groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the kickoff for the renovation of Almus Olver Towers in downtown Syracuse, NY. Ashley McGraw Architects collaborated with HCM Design for the design of the $56 million rehabilitation project. Almus Olver Towers is the first step in the East Adams Street Neighborhood Transformation Plan, which complements the demolition of the Interstate 81 viaduct by revitalizing a 27-block area and reconnecting neighborhoods on each side of the overpass.

Constructed in 1963, the 12-story building is being rehabilitated by McCormack Baron Salazar, Inc. in partnership with the Syracuse Housing Authority. All apartments will be set aside for households earning up to 60%of the Area Median Income and will continue to primarily house seniors aged 55 and older, and individuals living with disabilities. Renovations at Almus Olver Towers will include increasing the total number of units from 184 to 191, upgrading common areas, kitchens, bathrooms, and the facade, replacing the building’s roof, and constructing an outdoor pavilion with a seating area for residents.

Key project highlights include:

  • Fossil fuel-free, high-efficiency geothermal HVAC system

  • Thermally efficient window replacements

  • Fully modernized ADA-accessible units

  • New units for hearing and vision-impaired residents

  • Highly insulated roof replacement

  • Full kitchen and bathroom renovations in all units

  • Upgraded and modernized common areas

  • Phased, in-place renovation to minimize resident displacement

The project has a focus on energy efficiency and is aiming to meet Enterprise Green Communities standards. Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens remarked during the ceremony that it is “a flagship project that combines affordable housing with climate responsibility.” The project’s sustainable practices will not only benefit the environment but also improve the neighborhood’s quality of life.

“The renovation of Almus Olver Towers represents a critical investment in the future of Syracuse, ensuring that families have access to safe, modern, and energy-efficient affordable housing. By incorporating sustainable features like geothermal heating and accessibility improvements, this project not only revitalizes existing homes but also reduces our carbon footprint, promoting a healthier and more sustainable community for years to come,” said Assemblymember Pam Hunter.

Financing for the project includes Low Income Housing Tax Credits and subsidies from New York State Homes and Community Renewal. The project has also been awarded Clean Energy Initiative funds.

"We're excited to be part of the team for this renovation project that will create major quality of life improvements for the Almus Olver Towers tenants and be the first step towards the complete redevelopment of the East Adams neighborhood,” said Andrew Schuster, Principal and leader of Ashley McGraw’s multi-family housing studio. “At the end of this phased renovation led by Hueber-Breuer Construction Co., every occupant will step into a brand new unit filled with modern amenities. Improvements include air conditioning provided by a state-of-the-art geothermal HVAC system and brand-new kitchens and bathrooms."

Ashley McGraw