Laurelton could become a historic district in the not so distant future

Image source: Ram57 on Wikimedia Commons

The Queens Chronicle reports that the neighborhood of Laurelton, in southeastern Queens (GMAP), could become a historic district. The classification that the civic group Concerned Citizens of Laurelton (CCOL) is looking at is for the neighborhood to be put on the state register of historic districts, not as a city landmark historic district (like nearby Addisleigh Park – GMAP).

A city landmark historic district is more restrictive compared to a community being on the state register as to what kinds of alterations can be done on buildings. CCOL would prefer to not go the route of the city landmark historic district, as “they don’t want the restrictions associated with the city designation.”

Here are the boundaries of the historic district – 850 buildings:

• North: 121st Avenue
• South: Sunrise Highway
• West: Springfield Boulevard
• East: Laurelton Parkway

It takes time for a neighborhood to become a historic district. First there is a report that needs to be put together – this one is being compiled by urban planner Paul Graziano – which then gets sent off to the state Historic Preservation Board. If they approve the report, then local homeowners will receive a certified letter asking if they want the designation district to be put into place. Then they vote on it.

Graziano says, “There are no drawbacks of any kind for property owners.” This could be a very exciting time for Laurelton!

Laurelton becoming a historic district? [Queens Chronicle]
UPDATE: Far Rockaway Beach Bungalow Historic District is now a state historic landmark [QNYC]