An empty building behind State Street in downtown Schenectady will be demolished over the next several months, according to the Schenectady Metroplex Development Authority.

Jackson Demolition was the low bidder for the demolition and was awarded the contract worth $179,400.

"The warehouse has been empty for many years," said Ray Gillen, the chairman of Metroplex. "By taking it down, we open up the back of State Street creating a much safer, brighter, more accessible downtown."

The demolition will create a new entrance to the Center City building, which the authority is currently attempting to sell.