Preservation Resources
Preservation Buffalo Niagara and the National Trust for Historic Preservation jointly support field services in Western New York. Through a shared staff arrangement, Preservation Specialist Andrea Rebeck assists preservation organizations, commissions and projects throughout a 7 county region, including efforts to providing encouragement, recognition, and appropriate information on maintaining historic buildings. In addition, Ms. Rebeck also offers technical assistance to persons and organizations that own historic resources. Owners are the heroes of historic preservation—and we cherish them.
PBN advocates for historic places in many different ways, such as the effort to protect the Statler Building. In February, 2009, the Willert / A. D Price Courts and 169 East Ferry were added to the Preservation League of New York State's endangered list, Seven to Save. Subsequently, the Willert, a 1930s public housing project, was determined eligible for the National Register of Historic Places.
Another issue for PBN is the multi-year Peace Bridge Plaza controversy that threatens 80 structures in the historic Prospect Hill neighborhood.
We will also disseminate information of tax credits and other benefits on owning historic buildings and continue to advocate for expanded financial incentives for property owners who undertake preservation projects.
We also encourage public agencies to utilize tools for the protection and enhancement of historic buildings and communities throughout the Buffalo region. Local designation and National Register designation each offer their own benefits, advantages and requirements. PBN will strive to educate property owners and the general public about these benefits and requirements, and will encourage property owners to seek historic designation for qualified properties.
Late in 2009, Andrea Rebeck assisted the Niagara Falls Historic Preservation Commission in obtaining local designation for the Evelyn Apartments, an owner-supported nomination that caused some controversy due to its proximity to the expanding Memorial Medical Center. She testified to the City Council on the property’s worthiness for designation and advised the city's Historic Preservation Commission as they worked towards a successful outcome for this property.
PBN recognizes that there will be occasions where the designation process will be initiated without an owner’s consent and has established a policy (.pdf) for dealing with such situations.
Preservation Buffalo Niagara is also very concerned about the future maintenance and stewardship of Buffalo's priceless Olmsted Parks and works with the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy.
On December 7, 2009 the Preservation Buffalo Niagara Board of Trustees approved this statement about the proposed deconstruction and moving of St. Gerard's Church.
Preservation Buffalo Niagara has sent a letter of support to Governor Patterson for the wonderful idea of restoring the circa 1835 Erie Canal Locks #67 -71 in Lockport.
