VICKSBURG, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — As the Village of Vicksburg celebrates its 150th anniversary, it has yet another reason to celebrate.
The 3,500-person village recently received news that it’s historic district, which encompasses hundreds of commercial and residential properties, was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Whereas most distinctions go to individual properties, Vicksburg’s designation is for the entire downtown and surrounding areas – 176 properties in total.
The formal nomination to the National Register made earlier this year by Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer, Martha MacFarlane-Faes, who says the process for listing a property goes through a number of steps which could take anywhere from several months to a couple of years.
“To be on the National Register is not only a point of pride, but a tool for economic and community development. This is a wonderful designation for Vicksburg and a great way to celebrate its local history,” said MacFarlane-Faes.
Village of Vicksburg Manager Jim Mallery agrees with the benefits the designation provides.
“Not only is this an honor the entire Village can take pride in, but it’s also most likely going to benefit us with economic incentives such as tax-credit programs,” said Mallery. “We are excited to add one more tool in our economic development toolkit.”
Listing in the National Register provides formal recognition of a property’s historical, architectural, or archaeological significance to its community and to the collective history of the state of Michigan.
Listing in the National Register allows for consideration in the planning of federal or federally assisted projects; provides eligibility for federal tax benefits for commercial properties; qualifies properties for federal assistance for historic preservation projects when funds are available; serves as a catalyst for economic development; and promotes heritage education and tourism.
Additionally, certain funding programs and organizations may require or look favorably upon properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
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