Features: Jan. 22, 2002

TAP Wins State Award for Community Work With Rensselaer

The Troy Architectural Program (TAP) has earned the Empire Award for working with Rensselaer on its Neighborhood Renewal Initiatives, established last year to enhance the livability of Troy's neighborhoods, foster economic development, and stabilize property values. As part of the initiative, Rensselaer recently launched the Homebuyer Incentive Program, offering $5,000 to each qualified homebuyer who purchases a home in specific Troy neighborhoods.

Joe Fama (left) leads tour of the university's neighborhoods.

"Troy is rich with community-based organizations, such as TAP, that are dedicated to improving the quality of life in this city," said Barbara Nelson '80, Rensselaer project manager and head of the Neighborhood Renewal Initiatives plan. "Joe Fama, his staff, and his network of community builders are an integral part of the university's commitment to connect with the local community. We are thrilled to have our partnerships recognized as models for neighborhood revitalization by DHCR."

The first-time award, issued by the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR), honored 10 neighborhood and rural preservation companies assisting local communities in promoting and facilitating affordable housing and neighborhood development across New York state. The department received hundreds of applications, according to DHCR Commissioner Dennis Ryan.

"Throughout its history, TAP has been at the forefront of community renewal and affordable-housing preservation efforts in the City of Troy, and DHCR is proud to support such an organization," Ryan said.

Students and faculty from Rensselaer's School of Architecture established TAP in 1969 as a nonprofit corporation to provide professional assistance to those in need of affordable architectural services. Fama, a 1970 Rensselaer graduate, is its director.