Historic Preservation Office has fresh HOT programs

Last week, we heard tell of city employees conducting a historic survey in Allandale. On Friday, Historic Preservation Officer Steve Sadowsky informed us that it’s actually more of a high-level scan that could possibly precede a more in-depth future survey. The effort is part of a program funded by hotel occupancy taxes and is happening across the city in areas within a half-mile of where tourists might gather. That includes both attractions and hotels, Sadowsky said. Additionally, his office is poised to conduct a new feasibility study focused on preserving and restoring downtown storefronts. The study will determine the specific geographic extent of the program, but Sadowsky suggested that East Sixth Street and Congress Avenue are likely to be included. Also to be determined is the funding mechanism. Sadowsky said that property owners could possibly be offered low or zero-interest loans or be given grants outright. The study, he said, could launch as soon as next month.