Colonie

The tale of two troubled Central Avenue motels will come to an end within 90 days after the owner on Thursday agreed to a deal that includes demolishing them.

In exchange, Alex Patel, the owner of the Blu-Bell and Skylane motels, will avoid up to $750,000 in fines and the possibility of jail time.

"It's a positive outcome for everyone," said Colonie Town Supervisor Paula Mahan. "It's been a lot of frustration for a lot of different people for a long time, but I think with patience and working together and looking at all options, I think we've come to a very good resolution."

Patel declined to comment.

The two motels were closed by the town last year after code officials declared them uninhabitable. The case against Patel was adjourned for six months while he complies with the terms of the agreement, said Town Attorney Michael Maggiulli.

Patel must immediately apply for demolition permits and pursuant applications. Pending weather, the possible need for asbestos removal and working with National Grid, both motels need to be demolished within 90 days or all charges will be reinstated, Maggiulli said.

A manager's office and an apartment at the Skylane will be allowed to remain as long as the structure is brought up to code and fits into any new structure on the property.

Mahan said she believes Patel intends to work with the town in a constructive manner.

"I've been told that there's redevelopment in the works for that area."

Any new development must comply with the Route 5 Corridor Study, requiring retail outlets at the site, Maggiulli said.

Nothing formal has been submitted to the town but it is believed that a retail center will go on the former Blu-Bell site and a storage facility will be at the Skylane site, Mahan said. "They have to go through the process and plans and permitting have to be done."

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