Introduction[edit]

The Louis Rubin Memorial Approach is a large 163-step granite staircase that connects the campus of RPI to downtown Troy down the hill. [3]. The stair is located between 8th street and the Blitman Residence Commons and meets downtown at Institute Ave. The Approach has not only had a functional purpose as a connector but simultaneously symbolizes the interdependence between the industrial city of Troy and RPI.

History[edit]

After various fires ravaged the Winslow Chemical Laboratory and RPI’s Main Building, Trustees and administrators considered a few different building proposals regarding where to rebuild the charred campus [4]. While an option was to combine the school with Columbia University of Mines in New York City, it was decided that rebuilding the campus further east would be more prudent [4]. The City of Troy decided to put the barren land to good use, eventually spending $40,000 to construct the staircase. Designed in the Beaux Arts neoclassical style, the new staircase served as a new connection between Troy and RPI, a continued symbol of support between the two entities.

For half a century, the stairs have been used by both RPI students and the city's residents as a place for photos, ceremonial events, a route to downtown and beyond, and more. [4]. Lack of city funds eventually caused the deterioration of the Approach over time. In May of 1959, a group of Rensselaer students attempted to clean up the stairs with the cooperation of city officials. It is likely that lack of further such attempts accelerated deterioration, eventually causing the Approach to become so neglected that it had to be closed in the 1970’s [1]. The closing of the Approach caused such an inconvenience to the community that RPI's president at the time, Richard G. Folsom declared that it would turn away "many people wishing access to the City of Troy from our campus."

Rebirth[edit]

In 1994, the Louis and Hortense Rubin Foundation improved the approach by renovation [1]. The “Approach and Beyond” campaign was launched that year, helping raise most of the $850,000 needed to renovate and repair the stairs. Local firm Architecture+ was chosen for the restoration. Known as a service-oriented architectural, planning, and interiors firm, Architectur+ took care in making sure the restoration was faithful to the original design. In order for the repairs to be conducted, a majority of the stonework was labeled, disassembled, and stockpiled. In addition, replica ornamental metalwork and period light poles were also replaced [3]. Overall, the renovation took 5 years, and the Louis Rubin Memorial Approach was reopened on October 14, 1999 [4].

Rededication and Tradition[edit]

The Approach was rededicated in 1999 and architecture+ received the Community Beautification Award from the Rensselaer County Chamber of Commerce for its successful reconstruction [3]. In addition, the Class of 1944 had the WWII memorial plaque, originally located in the Houston Field House, moved to the top of the Approach. A similar plaque honoring those alumni who gave their lives in WWI that was also created and placed at the top of the stairs.[4]. The Approach serves as a reminder of RPI’s commitment to the Troy community, known as ‘communiversity’ by President Shirley Ann Jackson [2]. With the exception of the pandemic years, RPI freshmen are greeted by the president of the institute at the approach before the first week of classes. This tradition welcomes the new students to RPI and the community. This formal greeting takes place as the freshmen march from campus, down the approach, and all the way to the river for an opening ceremony to the school year.

2007 brought around the 100th anniversary of the approach. While its 163 stairs continue to bring pain and elevated heart rates to all those who traverse it, The Approach continues to provide students with a direct way to enter the city from campus and Blitman Residence Halls. This connection allows the students to immerse themselves in historic district of Troy which includes many restaurants, bars, and the world famous farmers market.