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Elmwood Historic District East added to State and National Registers of Historic Places

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Thu, Dec 3rd 2015 04:40 pm

Unanimous decision adds 60 eligible historic homeowners to tax credit-eligible list

State Sen. Marc Panepinto, Assemblyman Sean Ryan, Common Council Majority Leader David Rivera and Common Council Member Joel Feroleto announced the addition of the Elmwood Historic District East to the State and National Registers of Historic Places. Today's announcement comes after a unanimous vote by the State Board for Historic Preservation and the collaborative efforts of state, local and community leaders.

Now eligible for the State Historic Homeownership Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program, more than 1,000 homeowners stand to benefit from the designation. The announcement also includes the addition of 60 historic homes to the tax credit-eligible list. Together with the already-designated Elmwood Historic District West, the newly announced designation creates the largest historic district in the City of Buffalo - and one of the largest in the nation.

"This could not be a bigger win for the residents of the Elmwood Historic District East," Panepinto said. "This invaluable designation not only increases property values, but will preserve the historic character of this exceptional neighborhood for generations.

"My sincerest gratitude to Clinton Brown Company Architecture and the Landmark Society for their leadership in preparing the application for nomination. I am proud to have played a role in this community-driven effort and encourage those who have not done so to take advantage of these cost-saving measures as soon as possible."

Ryan said, "The Elmwood Historic District East is a win-win for Buffalo and the Elmwood Village, preserving the character of this unique and historic place, and helping to boost property values with upgrades and additions. This designation means that Elmwood Village homeowners will be able to receive tax credits if they choose to enhance the historic character of their homes.

"I thank Clinton Brown Company Architecture and the Landmark Society for their hard work in putting the nomination forward, and researching and documenting the history of the district."

Part of a community-driven effort, elected officials worked closely with Gov. Andrew Cuomo's administration to secure benefits for eligible homeowners. It also marks the culmination of long-term efforts with Clinton Brown Company Architecture and an Elmwood East Community Council to secure national recognition of their neighborhood - and to access state tax credits of 20 percent of the costs of pre-approved home improvements that help preserve their home's historic character and the rich history of the Elmwood Village neighborhood.

"I want to thank the State Board of Historic Preservation for their approval of this important historic district," Rivera said. "The unanimous vote speaks to the strength of application prepared by Clinton Brown Company Architecture and the Landmark Society. Their hard work has resulted in some of the largest historic preservation districts in the state being located in Buffalo. I also commend my elected colleagues for their support of this initiative, including former Delaware District Council Member Michael LoCurto and his staff, who early on took the lead in guiding this effort. I highly recommend property owners in eligible areas seek out this valuable tax credit."

Feroleto said, "It comes as no surprise to me that the State Board for Historic Preservation unanimously accepted this nomination after witnessing firsthand all of the hard work both the Clinton Brown Company Architecture and the Landmark Society of WNY put into this project. I am so happy to say both East and West of Elmwood Avenue have historic designation. Congratulations to all involved on this well-deserved win for Elmwood Village, and the City of Buffalo."

Cuomo announced 28 properties were added to the State and National Register of Historic Places. A full list can be found here: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-cuomo-announces-recipients-2015-historic-preservation-awards

"These landmarks are part of New York's rich history and, by preserving their legacies, we are encouraging future growth in communities across the state," Cuomo said. "I congratulate this year's recipients on their great work in protecting the Empire State's unique history and preserving these economic and educational assets for generations to come."

"We are pleased to recognize these outstanding achievements, which have made significant contributions to historic preservation and revitalization efforts across the state," Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Rose Harvey said. "These projects are exceptional examples of how historic preservation can be an important tool for community renewal, economic development and job growth in New York state."

Also added to the list was the Fargo Estate Historic District in Buffalo, which was developed on land surrounding a large estate built by William G. Fargo in 1872. Demolished in 1900, the house and extensive grounds were subsequently replaced in the early 20th century by houses for middle-class occupants.

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