Excelsior Communities Acquires First Federal Plaza, Envisions Premier Riverfront Destination in Downtown Rochester

Rochester, NY — August 2026 — Excelsior Communities is proud to announce the acquisition of First Federal Plaza, one of Rochester’s most recognizable downtown landmarks, located along the Genesee River at 28 East Main Street.
The acquisition represents another significant investment by Excelsior Communities in downtown Rochester and an opportunity to reimagine First Federal Plaza as a premier mixed-use destination bringing together Premier Living, Premier Office and Premier Retail in one of the city’s most distinctive settings.
With its signature architecture, floor-to-ceiling glass and exceptional riverfront location, First Federal Plaza offers an opportunity to create an experience unlike anything else in downtown Rochester. Excelsior’s vision is to build on the property’s unique character while introducing new energy, activity and connectivity to the surrounding neighborhood.
A major focus of the project will be the building’s relationship with the Genesee River. Excelsior sees an opportunity not only to enhance First Federal Plaza itself, but to activate the riverfront and create a destination that encourages residents, office tenants, businesses and visitors to experience the river in a new way.
“This is much bigger than the acquisition of a building,” said Ami Notis, Vice President of Excelsior Communities. “First Federal Plaza has the location, architecture and presence to become one of the premier destinations in Rochester. Our vision is to bring together premier living, premier office and premier retail while taking full advantage of the building’s incredible floor-to-ceiling glass and its position directly along the Genesee River. We believe activating this property and the riverfront can create new energy that extends well beyond the building and helps lift up the entire west side of the river.”
Excelsior Communities views First Federal Plaza as an important part of the continued evolution of downtown Rochester. By creating a vibrant mix of residential, office and retail uses and strengthening the connection between the building and the waterfront, the company believes the project can serve as a catalyst for broader investment and activity throughout the surrounding area.
The acquisition continues Excelsior Communities’ commitment to investing in Rochester’s urban core and transforming distinctive properties into places where people can live, work and connect.
Media Contact
Cathy Craft
Marketing Manager
Excelsior Communities
585-244-7368













