One of the earliest European settlements in the New World, New York State is rich in American history, including historic buildings and architecture. Grants for restoration of these treasures are available, depending on the type of building, its historic significance and ownership. Funding is sometimes restricted to buildings owned by nonprofit organizations, and not made available for privately-owned structures.
New York Main Street
Administered by the New York State Housing Trust Fund Corporation, the New York Main Street program offers grants to renew and renovate traditional main streets. Nonprofit organizations and business improvement districts may apply for funding, and the grants may be used for historic buildings including facade renovations, interior upgrades or enhancement of the street-scape. Theaters and museums may also qualify for renovation grants under this program.
The New York Landmarks Conservancy
Landmark buildings owned by nonprofit organizations and facing an immediate threat may obtain funding from the New York Landmarks Conservancy. The grants average between $10,000 and $12,000, although may run as high as $25,000, depending on circumstances. Funds may be used to make immediate repairs to the structure or exterior of buildings, if the stability of the building is endangered. Structures owned by religious organizations are ineligible, as are any buildings under private ownership. Applicants must demonstrate financial need to receive grant monies.
Historic Preservation Grant Program
Administered by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission, the historic preservation grant program provides funds for both nonprofit organizations and private homeowners to restore deteriorating facades in New York City. Ranging from $5,000 to $25,000, grants may be used to pay for renovation of the street facade of an historic structure. Qualifying buildings must be designated or eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, or as New York City landmarks. Private owners who pay for parts of the renovation get preferential consideration.
Robert W. Wilson-Sacred Sites Challenge Grants
Also administered by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission, the Robert W. Wilson-Sacred Sites Challenge Grant funds large restoration projects of historically significant religious structures. Other monies are also available for the repair and renovation of smaller sacred sites under the related program grant. Funded projects include masonry repair, roof replacement, steeple repair and stabilization, stained glass window restoration, and gutter and drainage system repair.
Tags: York City, York State, Administered York, buildings owned, buildings owned nonprofit, City Landmarks
