Bowery Listed in National Register of Historic Places

The Bowery is now officially listed in the National Register of Historic Places. This significant feat follows placement in the State Register, which occurred in October 2011.

However, it’s worth mentioning that this designation is strictly an historical acknowledgement, and does not carry the architectural protections or review requirements of a landmark district. But it’s still a big deal, providing extra ammo for activists pushing for full preservation of the beloved thoroughfare. Specifically with regard to the east side of the Bowery, which carries no height restrictions.

Though, the honorary title does bring state and federal tax benefits to developers who wish to rehabilitate old properties. Yeah, like that’s gonna happen in this gold rush climate…

Two Bridges Neighborhood Council and the Bowery Alliance of Neighbors co-sponsored this nomination. “[The Bowery] has a seminal connection to tap dance, vaudeville, Yiddish theater, Stephen Foster, Irving Berlin, abstract expressionism and punk,” said BAN chair David Mulkins.