UAlbany to Purchase Former College of Saint Rose Residence Hall

UAlbany President Havidan Rodriguez is joined by County Executive Dan McCoy at podium to announce purchase of Centennial Hall
County Executive Dan McCoy joined UAlbany President Havidan Rodriguez for a press conference where he announced their intention to purchase Centennial Hall, a former residence hall, for $12 million. Photo by Brian Busher

By Amy Geduldig

ALBANY, N.Y. (Nov. 3, 2025) — The University at Albany announced Monday its intent to purchase Centennial Hall, a residence hall on the former College of Saint Rose campus. The three-story property, at 930 Madison Ave., would be used for UAlbany upperclassman and graduate housing.

Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy announced the news at a press conference on Nov. 3 at Centennial Hall with UAlbany President Havidán Rodríguez, county legislators and the Albany Pine Hills Land Authority.

The University has put in an offer of $12 million for the 93,671 square-foot residence hall, which has 66 units that total 225 bedrooms. The building, which was constructed in 2012, would expand the University’s housing portfolio and provide University students with highly-sought independent living options along with campus amenities, such as recreation spaces, study rooms, laundry facilities, parking and more.  

“Purchasing Centennial Hall will enable the University at Albany to expand housing options for our students and meet student demand for apartment-style housing. This is another important investment in the city of Albany. We are very proud to be an anchor institution here and we look forward to continuing to work with the Pine Hills Land Authority and the county executive on this purchase,” said University at Albany President Havidán Rodríguez.

Following a 90-day notice period established by the Albany County Pine Hills Land Authority, the building would be purchased by Empire Commons Student Housing, Inc, which manages UAlbany’s housing facilities on campus.  

The building could open to students as early as Fall 2026.