A public meeting was held Wednesday night to discuss the idea of getting an area in the City of Buffalo listed as the Elmwood Historic District (east). If approved, that portion of the city would be placed on the State and National Register of Historic Places, providing benefits to area homeowners.
Delaware District Common Council Member Michael LoCurto says getting the historic designation would allow income-eligible property owners to take advantage of state and federal tax credits for home upgrades.
“This can help homeowners make some improvements or things that might need doing that they’ve put off for awhile and this may allow them to do it, if and when the designation is awarded. I should add there’s no restrictions on it. It’s not like a local landmark designation where you have use their supplies,” said LoCurto.
The Elmwood Historic District (east) would encompass homes and buildings on the east side of Elmwood Avenue from North Street to Iroquois Drive and the area east of Elmwood Avenue to Delaware Avenue.
LoCurto says getting the area designated as a Historic District is expected to be a simple process.
“You have to apply to the state, but you need buy in from the homeowners. A certain percentage of homeowners have to say that they support this designation,” said LoCurto.
LoCurto says since a portion of the city was designated as Elmwood Historic District (west) back in December 2012, many property owners have already taken advantage of tax credits. He says overall the designation would be a good thing for the city.
If residents didn’t make last night’s meeting and would like to get involved they can contact the Elmwood Village Association, Preservation Buffalo Niagara, and either Council Member LoCurtoor Niagara District Council Member David Rivera.