ALBANY — As downtown Albany business owners seek to capitalize on what some see as fresh momentum heading into 2026, many are banking on a strategy of rebuilding rapport with their customers and planning small events to boost foot traffic.
The downtown business district, historically bolstered by government worker spending and large events, has struggled for years to regain its footing after the coronavirus pandemic, which caused lasting changes in consumer habits, such as online shopping and growth in the popularity of takeout and food delivery over in-person dining. It’s all stoked by the shift to remote or hybrid schedules for many private sector and government workers, also a direct result of the pandemic.
But Albany resident Erica Cubello, owner of the Fort Orange General Store at 412 Broadway, is hopeful downtown Albany’s foot traffic can be rebuilt…