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The city of Syracuse partnered with the Preservation Association of Central New York to nominate the Westcott-University Neighborhood for recognition on the National Register of Historic Places. The area would be the largest National Register-listed historic district in Syracuse.

In a Wednesday meeting, held by New York’s State Historic Preservation Office, SHPO members outlined the nomination process and the requirements for designation. They also answered questions from the neighborhood’s residents.

Speakers highlighted the history of the neighborhood and showcased some of the architectural styles of houses that are featured in Westcott, including Italianate, Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, Craftsman Cottage and Bungalows. Non-residential buildings also represent the neighborhood’s civil and social histories, said Chelsea Towers, a National Register coordinator.

The Westcott-University Neighborhood was officially established in the 1840s, but most of the neighborhood was built between 1870 and 1930. At the time, developers marketed the neighborhood for homebuyers of moderate means. The area included small lots close to each other to maximize affordability for middle-class homeowners.

The criterias for historic place evaluation include a significant event occurring on the site, a significant person previously living there, unique architecture or significant archaeological findings. Historic designation would not restrict property owners’ ability to remodel their home, according to the meeting.

Towers said the designation isn’t the same as a local historical district because it’s primarily an honorary title.

Westcott was purposely built near the industrial hubs in the city to attract middle-class professionals and families, Towers said.

Christina Vagvolgyi, historic site restoration coordinator at New York State Parks, presented the Historic Homeownership Rehabilitation Credit Program. New York state taxpayers who rehabilitate a qualified historic home in the state or purchase a rehabilitated qualified home are eligible to claim a credit. The home must be listed on the State or National Register of Historic Places prior to rehabilitation.

Work that qualifies in this credit program includes window repairs and replacements, along with any general interior work and system work, Vagvolgyi said.

The State Board for Historic Preservation plans to review the nomination on Dec. 5., according to its website. If approved, the district will be listed in the NYS Register of Historic Places. SHPO will then send the nomination to the National Park Service in Washington, D.C., where the National Register will review the nomination.

Published on October 31, 2024 at 2:13 am

Contact Madeline: mmgoodhe@syr.edu