BROOKLYN, NY, March 2, 2016: Today, the Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council (PHNDC) announced that 612 contributing buildings have been added to the neighborhood’s National Register historic district, bringing the total number of buildings in the district to 917. The buildings were added to National Register of Historic Places by the National Park Service on February 16. The expanded district boundary includes properties on Flatbush Avenue, Vanderbilt Avenue, Washington Avenue, Underhill Avenue, Bergen Street, St. Marks Avenue, Prospect Place, Park Place, Sterling Place and Butler Place.

“This action by the National Park Service is a reminder that, in the face of tremendous development pressure, Brooklyn’s historic neighborhoods remain a national treasure whose preservation is essential to the borough’s future,” said PHNDC chair Gib Veconi. “The 19th century rowhouses and apartment buildings of brownstone Brooklyn continue to teach us about how these neighborhoods helped to form a thriving community as the city’s population expanded. They are also often still home to the long-time residents who have shaped the character of Brooklyn. Preserving these historic resources also means preserving our community.”

PHNDC led the effort to expand State and National Register districts in Prospect Heights, with support for project research and documentation provided by Council Member Laurie Cumbo, and former Council Member (now New York City Public Advocate) Letitia James.

The properties’ listing on the National Register follows their listing on the New York State Register of Historic Places in December 2015. Together, the two designations enable properties to apply for preservation tax credits from State and Federal governments to offset the cost of repair and restoration.

“I am proud to have worked with PHNDC and the residents of Prospect Heights to preserve this neighborhood’s unique character and charm. This historic designation is an incredible win for the 35th Council District by expanding access to critical tax credits that will enable homeowners, landlords, and business owners particularly along Washington, Vanderbilt, and Flatbush avenues to maintain the beauty and history of these buildings,” said Council Member Laurie A. Cumbo.

“Hundreds of property owners finally have a much-needed tool to help with the hefty upkeep costs of maintaining their historic Brooklyn homes,” said Public Advocate Letitia James. “These iconic rowhouses have contributed to the culture, history, and beauty of our borough for centuries and it is imperative that we legally protect these building with this designation. I am pleased to have worked with PHNDC to support this effort to ensure these buildings and this history is preserved for generations to come.”