Beverly Square West designated as landmark district in Flatbush
The current map excludes Westminster, Stratford and Argyle Road, but residents there argue that the homes are just as historic as those included in the landmark zone.
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A new landmark district has been designated in Flatbush, covering more than 100 homes in the Beverley Square neighborhood. Residents have been pushing for this recognition since 2009, though many had hoped the entire neighborhood would be included.
“It gives us hope that it's possible, but it's just ignited in us a desire to keep on pushing for the rest of the neighborhood,” said homeowner Lisa Draho.
“I’m choosing to see it as a glass half full, not half empty,” added homeowner Janice Hamann, adding, "each house here is unique, the architecture of the porches, you just don't see that with new homes."
The current map excludes Westminster, Stratford and Argyle Road, but residents there argue that the homes are just as historic as those included in the landmark zone.
“This home was originally the home of Harry Hawkins, the developer of this area, and the history is worth preserving,” said homeowner John McVicker, adding that he has been getting non-stop letters from developers looking to take over the property.
Residents worry that without landmark status, historic homes could be torn down or abandoned, a fate that has already taken place for one lot on Strafford Road,
“These two blocks are not any different than the blocks that were landmarked. So, I think that the [LPC] argument is just really very thin. I think sacrificing this neighborhood would be a major mistake,” Draho said,
In a statement to News 12, the Landmarks Preservation Commission said, “The new Beverley Square West and Ditmas Park West Historic Districts contain the strongest architecture and most cohesive streetscapes not previously designated in Victorian Flatbush, and best represent the neighborhood’s development history and significant architecture.”
