Four Historic Designations Pending in Fishtown
According to PlanPhilly, four properties on Frankford Avenue in Fishtown have been nominated to receive historic designation.
Three of the four properties, located at 1105 – 1127 Frankford Avenue, have “significant character, interest or value as part of the development, heritage or cultural characteristics of the city” and “[exemplify] the cultural, political, economic, social or historical heritage of the community.” They are situated between Wildey Street and Girard Avenue, the unofficial entrance to Fishtown within the vicinity of the Delaware River. The two-story structures have in the past functioned primarily as commercial outlets.
The fourth property is situated on the 1400 block of Frankford Avenue and served previously as a police station and bicycle shop.
Architectural historian Oscar Beisert, in affiliation with representatives from Kensington and Olde Richmond Heritage LLC as well as Neighborhood Preservation Allies, nominated the properties. Owners Jason Nussbaum and Roland Kassis are not, however, as thrilled as one might expect. The two plan on preserving the properties, but assert that historic certification would only stymie their efforts.
Ken Milano, an author and local historian, assure them that it is in the best interest of the community to designate the buildings as historically significant because of the pervasive demolition occurring in Fishtown (and Kensington as well).
To review the nominations, click on the following links: