The Annual Appeal
Your Contributions At Work in 2023 and Primary Needs for 2024
Your Contributions At Work in 2023
- Roadways. We paved portions of roads in Sections 29, 30 and 122 and filled potholes on the North and South Ridge.
- Drainage. We repaired and replaced portions of the Cemetery’s 175 year old drainage system, and added over 2,000 feet o new drainage with catch-basins in Sections 118 and 119.
- Trees. We removed over 30 dangerous dead or diseased trees around the Cemetery grounds.
- Heavy Equipment. We replaced our over 20-year old tractor with a new Massey-Furgeson tractor and accompanying backhoe component for interments.
- Green/Natural Burial Area. We completed work for a green/natural burial area in a new Section 131 across from Section 129. This section is now open for burials.
- Security Equipment. Security cameras were added in some areas of the Cemetery this past year.
Priority Needs in 2023
Roadways. Road repair remains at the top of the list for infrastructure improvements for 2023. Please be a generous as your conscience permits! We still have over 5 miles of roadways that desperately need attention.
Drainage and rainwater run-off management. Many areas of the Cemetery are experiencing rainwater run-off, pooling, and over saturation within various sections. Significant water management and drainage are needed.
Mowing & Trimming. Mowing over the varied terrain in the Cemetery is very hard on our equipment and frequently puts equipment out of service for repairs. We are severely lacking regular functional equipment. Much of the equipment used to maintain the Cemetery is severely outdated or inoperable. Your contributions will enable us to purchase new mowing and trimming equipment as well as hire personnel to assist in maintaining the grounds.
Unrestricted Operational Capital. Much of the appearance of the Cemetery pivots on the ability to pay workers and physically able staff. We greatly need capital to hire and retain key employees as well as employ additional seasonal staff to help maintain the grounds and perform a multitude of essential maintenance throughout the year.
New Crematory. The State of New York has mandated that we replace our crematory with a facility and equipment that meets or exceeds EPA regulations no later than 01 January 2025. To meet this deadline, we must purchase new equipment (retorts) and be fully operation by the deadline or be forced to close our operation all together. Your single, installment, or pledged financial gifts can be specified exclusively for this project.
Security and Lighting Improvements. Improvements to lighting in key areas of the Cemetery is also on the top of the list for 2023. Lighting improvements were made on the outside of the Mausoleum in the Spring of 2022 and more lighting is needed in and around the Chapel area. Additional security cameras are needed in various areas of the Cemetery, including additional cameras at the Barn and Chapel..
A key piece of equipment in need of repair or replacement
Aging equipment in need of replacement
A main road on Summit Ridge is in need of major drainage and paving work
While significant paving was done in 2022, many roads still require work
Standing water and lack of paving near Cypress Pond
Mowing and paving are among the most pressing concens for 2023
Limited staffing and equipment means prioritizing newer areas with active burials meaning some of the older, more historic areas are in need of care
You can also mail a check to Annual Appeal
Albany Rural Cemetery, 3 Cemetery Ave., Albany NY 12204
Or stop by our office to donate in person.
Thank you in advance for your support and generosity.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.