For your average property owner, the idea of repairing or restoring an historic building probably seems a little daunting. The Marcy-Holmes Neighborhood Association (MHNA) is hoping make the process easier through Neighborhood Revitalization Program (NRP) funding grants of up to $1,500.
Property owners may use the grants for professional consultation on how best to restore their historic properties. No matching funds are required.
Homes, businesses, churches, and fraternity and sorority houses could all qualify for the grants, as long as the structures are at least 50 years old. “This consultation will give people a mini-master plan for their property,” said Elissa Cottle, Marcy-Holmes’ NRP program coordinator. “It’ll help protect the buildings’ architectural and historic integrity.”
The consultation includes a site visit by the consultant, written recommendations for the property and a follow-up meeting to discuss the recommendations, which will be based on the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings.
Applicants can chose an architect or builder with a record in historic preservation to provide the consultation, or MHNA can provide suggestions.
The application process requires a photo of the property and a brief statement about why the applicant believes the property is historic. Applications should include the year the property was built, its architectural and construction style and/or its connection to historic people or events. Contact Elissa Cottle at 612-623-7923 or mhnrp@pro-ns.net for more information.
At press time, three homeowners had taken advantage of the program. Cottle wants to see to all $17,000 of the program funds granted. “This program is all about preserving the historic assets of the neighborhood.”
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