"Preservation of historic properties and communities fosters community pride resulting in a more involved and informed citizenry. By preserving existing historic resources, a connection is established with our past. This connection sparks recognition that we have an obligation to responsibly manage our community for future generations."
Historic Preservation/Smart Growth Principles
Laurel Park is a National Register of Historic Places District
The National Register of Historic Places is the nation's list of buildings,
sites, and districts that are considered worthy of recognition and preservation
because of their architectural merit or importance in local, regional,
or national history.
What does this designation do for our neighbrohood?
1- Provides a written history of the people, the development and the architecture of the neighborhood for future generations.
2- It
offers public recognition which Increases awareness and appreciation
for the diverse architectural fabric and the traditional street pattern
and sidewalks.
3- It helps to create a spirit of community and reinforece a sense of place
4- Designation
also allows owners of income-producing properties (commercial
and rental residential) to take advantage of tax benefits for rehabilitation.
This means that if an owner substantially restores or adaptively reuses
a property in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards
for Rehabilitation, the owner can be eligible for a 20% tax credit on
the amount expended on the rehabilitation.
5- Designation sparks community
interest in its history and its historic resources. It may prompt people
to make the extra effort to save a historic property if it is threatened
with demolition or alteration.
7- Districts are sustainable development - helping to preserve the design, scale and uses in the neighborhood.
8- A
National Register District designation adds value to all properties in
the district, not just the historically designated properties.