I am still enjoying architectural discoveries as I walk around the residential streets of my Upper West Side neighborhood. But walking along Broadway can be sobering. So many restaurants and shops are closed for good. My “go to” spot for a casual breakfast or lunch had a crew inside dismantling the counters and kitchen this past weekend.
We’re all thankful for the decline of COVID and the gradual reopening of the City. But we are re-emerging into an economically troubled landscape. Federal Historic Tax Credits spurred $520 million in total rehabilitation projects in New York State last year, employing more than 8,600 persons. They can assist New York’s recovery now.
Washington is still discussing another stimulus package. Many of you have already responded to our earlier requests and asked our Senators and Representatives to support bills that expand the tax credits. Thank you. But we need even more of a push.
Please. Take action to help New York.
Sign our letter to the New York Congressional Delegation. Increased tax credits should be part of the next stimulus package to channel public and private dollars into local communities.
Historic tax credits are valuable economic recovery tools. Let’s use them.
With best wishes for your health and safety from all of us,
Peg Breen, President
The New York Landmarks Conservancy
info@nylandmarks.org