04/23/2026
Last week, our own Frank Scalish joined Ian Andrews, Heather Rudge, and Jim Miketo for a panel discussion regarding the proposed Madison Avenue Historic District. A major focus of the meeting was clearing up a common misconception about how a National Register listing impacts private property.
As Frank and the panel noted, a historic designation does not restrict what you can do with your building. Oversight only kicks in if you choose to utilize Historic Tax Credits. If you are using private funds, you are completely free to remodel, repair, or alter your property as you see fit.
Instead of restricting owners, a district-wide listing actually streamlines the tax credit application process for those who do want to undertake comprehensive renovations. By saving immense time and money upfront, it provides the financial roadmap needed to revitalize our urban corridors and breathe new life into historic spaces.
