Located in the heart of Ballston Spa, within the capital region, Tannery Commons is only 30 miles from Albany, six miles from Saratoga Springs, and four miles to Malta and GlobalFoundries’ manufacturing plant. In addition, the CDTA public transportation is less than 400 yards from the community. Tannery Commons offers residents a rich historic setting with ample parks, restaurants, taverns, retail, golf, scenic hiking trails, and a lovely, walkable downtown. Neighboring Saratoga Springs and Malta expand the range of amenity and employment options residents will have. This is one of the most significant developments in the village in the last century and aims to revitalize a historically significant area, breathe new life into the village, and contribute to a vibrant, sustainable future for the community.
168 Homes
3 Buildings – 4th building for amenities
46 – One-bedroom
69 – Two-bedroom
53 – Three-bedroom
Commercial Space
8,400 Sq. Ft.
Expected Completion
December 2027
Key Highlights
Tannery Commons, will feature 168 new apartment homes in three buildings, plus a fourth building dedicated to community amenities—designed to complement the area’s historic character. The community will offer one, two, and three-bedroom units with energy-efficient features that meet LEED v4.1 Residential Silver standards. The project also includes 8,400 square feet of commercial space, fostering both residential and business opportunities that will benefit the local economy and strengthen the tax base.
DEVELOPER: Conifer
CO-DEVELOPER: Shelter Resource Inc – Blue Ridge Atlantic Development
GENERAL CONTRACTOR: Conifer LeChase Construction (CLC)
MANAGEMENT AGENT: Conifer Management LLC
ARCHITECT: The Architectural Team (TAT)
Site Amenities
- On-site management offices
- Community room and kitchenette
- Laundry facilities
- Mail/package rooms
- Outdoor seating areas
- Outdoor courtyard
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning & Design
What rooftop equipment will be installed? What noise can be expected?
The rooftop equipment will include individual heat pumps for each apartment (providing heating and cooling) and centralized ERVs for building ventilation. All HVAC systems will be residential-grade and are not expected to generate significant noise. Equipment for commercial spaces will be selected once tenants are identified.
Will there be bike parking?
Yes, bike racks will be provided for both residents and visitors throughout the development.
Will there be elevators?
Yes, all buildings will include elevators for accessibility and convenience.
What kind of landscaping can we expect?
The development will feature native plantings and incorporate feedback from residents requesting tree plantings along Bath Street and near the creek.
Will there be plantings along the creek?
Yes, the plan includes adding trees and vegetation along the creek, in response to community input.
What drew the development team to Ballston Spa?
The former tannery site is a unique opportunity: centrally located in a walkable, historic village with a strong sense of community and growing demand for housing. The development supports local businesses by increasing the residential base and helps address the area’s shortage of attainable housing.
Will the pathway between Bath Street and the Tedisco Trail be open to the public?
Public access is still under consideration and will be determined based on tenant safety and site design.
Is it possible to extend the project to include sidewalk upgrades beyond the property?
Any work outside the project limits will be assessed as the project moves through permitting.
How will the buildings affect the view from the Tedisco Trail?
The building nearest the trail is expected to be set back approximately 70 feet. Visual impact will be limited.
Will there be other activity areas besides a playground?
This will be determined in collaboration with residents once the project is underway.
Can any existing buildings along Bath Street be preserved?
Unfortunately, the existing structures are not in salvageable condition. However, the new buildings will reflect the industrial character of the original architecture.
How was the number of residential units determined?
The total unit count is based on a combination of zoning, permitting allowances, and project financial feasibility.
Will people on the Tedisco Trail be able to see into upper-floor apartments? How will privacy be handled?
Privacy screens will be installed where needed to protect resident privacy.
What are the sizes of the residential units?
• 1-bedroom: Approximately 750 sq. ft.
• 2-bedroom: Approximately 950 sq. ft.
• 3-bedroom: Approximately 1,250 sq. ft.
Affordability & Eligibility
Will the apartments be affordable for low- and moderate-income households?
Yes. All applicants will be screened for eligibility in accordance with Federal Fair Housing laws and the income limits associated with affordable housing programs.
Will this be a Section 8 housing development?
The development does not include project-based Section 8 vouchers. However, per Federal Fair Housing regulations, the development will not discriminate against tenants using housing choice vouchers.
Could any units be designated for seniors?
Units cannot be specifically set aside for seniors due to Fair Housing regulations. However, all units will be designed with universal accessibility, including elevator access and step-free entries.
What funding programs are being used for the project?
The development will utilize the New York State Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program (SLIHC).
Traffic, Parking & Construction
Has a traffic study been conducted?
Yes. A formal traffic study was completed and submitted as part of the planning process.
How much parking will be provided? Will it be free?
A total of 224 parking spaces will be available:
• 168 spaces for residential use
• 17 spaces for commercial use
• 39 additional spaces to support overflow
All residential parking will be free.
Will the project address existing speeding concerns on Bath Street?
Yes. The development team is committed to working with local law enforcement to help promote traffic safety in the area.
Is parking expected to be an issue?
No. Surveys of similar communities in comparable markets show an average of one car per household, which aligns with the development’s capacity.
What delivery and waste truck routes will be used?
Routes will be determined in collaboration with the town and police during final planning.
What time will construction activity begin in the morning?
Construction schedules will take local traffic patterns, including school bus routes around 8 a.m., into consideration to reduce disruption.
How will dust and potential hazards be managed during demolition?
Dust will be controlled through regular watering of the site. All necessary precautions will be taken to protect neighboring properties and residents.
Environmental Considerations
Will the development impact water pressure for nearby homes?
The water infrastructure is currently being upgraded. A capacity study will be completed to ensure the system can support the development without affecting existing homes.
Will the project increase flooding in surrounding areas?
No. The development is designed not to increase floodplain impact and includes on-site water mitigation measures.
How will stormwater runoff be managed during construction?
The project will comply with all requirements of a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), which is designed to prevent runoff from affecting adjacent properties.
Property Operations & Local Impact
Will incentives be offered to attract local businesses to the commercial space?
The leasing strategy prioritizes outreach to local businesses and nonprofit organizations.
Will jobs be created beyond construction?
Yes. Permanent jobs will be created for property management, maintenance, snow removal, landscaping, and other services.
Where will snow be stored in the winter?
Designated snow storage areas (“snow shelves”) will be located in the parking lot. Final snow management plans are in development.
How will residents and the community stay updated on project progress?
Public updates will be shared throughout the permitting process. A formal presentation is scheduled for June 11, followed by additional opportunities for public input.
Has the Village considered other types of development for this site?
The property is privately owned. This proposal came forward after the current developer made an offer and began working through approvals.
Will the development contribute to school and town taxes?
Yes. As a taxable property, the development will contribute to local tax revenue.
