Ald. Vi Daley (43rd) announced that the Chicago Landmarks Commission made a preliminary designation for an Armitage/Halsted Commercial Landmark District at its meeting on Thursday, Feb. 7. This begins the formal consideration process of a permanent landmark designation by the city of an area that includes Armitage Ave. from Halsted to Racine and Halsted from, roughly, Armitage to Webster.
“Many people in the neighborhood have voiced a concern about new development on Armitage and on Halsted and the loss of historic buildings,” Ald. Daley said.
In 1996, the area was listed as a potential historic district in the “Chicago Historic Resources Survey.” These streets have been successful business arteries for the Lincoln Park community since the Chicago Fire in 1871.
Along with the surrounding residential neighborhood, this area is included in the federally designated Sheffield Historic District. However, the designation offers no protection to historic buildings from demolition.
“Community groups and I share a concern for preserving the character of our neighborhood. The architecture of our community is an important part of that character,” said Ald. Daley. “The Armitage Merchants and the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce will be involved in these discussions and much consideration will be given to how this will impact businesses.”
There are benefits and prestige in being a landmark district. There are also additional regulations and responsibilities.
The City’s Dept. of Planning and Development (DPD) is working on tax incentives for landmark districts. The DPD has also indicated that the district may be eligible for the facade improvement rebate program. Currently, Lincoln Park’s high income bracket and property values preclude the 43rd Ward from participation in the facade rebate program that is available in other areas.
Owners in the area will receive information from the Commission of Chicago Landmarks in a few weeks concerning the process for permanent landmark designation. Landmarks and the Alderman’s office will begin scheduling meetings with owners to inform them about the process, the benefits, and the restrictions involved in a permanent landmark district
The Landmarks Committee has conducted a survey of every building in the potential district. Vintage buildings meeting the age and structural criteria are classified as “contributing.” Newer buildings or building that have been significantly altered are classified as “non-contributing”. The classifications determine the restrictions on specific properties.
“It is important that people attend these meetings and get all the information regarding the process and the classification of their individual buildings,” Ald. Daley said. “This is an important proposal... and one that will benefit the future success of this vital retail area and preserve the architectural character of our widely admired neighborhood.”
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