Two abandoned buildings that were once a blight on a Dutchess County city are now the center of a bustling, downtown hub – complete with restaurants, shops and dozens of affordable housing units. 

News 12 got an exclusive look Tuesday at the latest revitalization project underway in Poughkeepsie, called The Academy. 

The $13 million renovation project turns a formerly empty warehouse into an open floor plan with restaurants, a brewery and an outdoor space. 

The Academy started welcoming customers late July after two years of construction. 

“To be able to bring two buildings that were recently vacant and turn them into part of society and part of the fabric of the city is really important,” said co-owner Eric Baxter. 

A total of 28 affordable housing apartments are under construction for rent by the end of the 2022.  

A co-working office space is in the works, and so are a few more shops and restaurants. 

“Having a combination of food, beverage and culture, art is really the way to go,” said co-owner Christian Palikuca. 

The Academy is now taking applications for affordable housing apartments through its website.