HomeMy WebLinkAbout20250907 75 Clinton St Area Variance OPRHP LetterLo' ° I New York State
100 Parks, Recreation and
YEARS Historic Preservation
KATHY HOCHUL RANDY SIMONS
Governor Commissioner Pro Tempore
May 24, 2024
Van Dam and Church Street Neighborhood Association
Re: Info Req
Van Dam Street Truck Traffic Concerns
To Whom It May Concern:
Thank you for requesting the comments of the Division for Historic Preservation of the Office of
Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP). OPRHP appreciates the opportunity to
comment on this issue. We understand that there has been a long-standing issue of tractor
trailer and other large truck traffic on Van Dam Street in the city of Saratoga Springs.
We are writing to acknowledge your concerns and offer our experience in related matters as it
relates to historic resources. We note that Van Dam Street is located within the State and
National Register listed West Side Historic District. Characterized by historic residential
structures dating to the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, Van Dam Street typifies the
historic residential feel and setting of the West Side Historic District.
Historic buildings are negatively impacted by direct physical actions as well as the introduction
of visual, audible or atmospheric elements that lead to the alteration of a historic property's
surrounding environment or setting. Of particular concern, major truck routes within historic
districts can create significant vibrations, which has proven to undermine older foundations and
character -defining architectural elements of historic resources.
The OPRHP appreciates the opportunity to comment on this proposal. It should be noted that
further consultation with our office would be necessary as the project moves forward if there is
state or federal involvement in the project. Involvement of a federal or state agency triggers a
more formal review with our office under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and
Section 14.09 of the New York State Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation Law,
respectively.
If you have any questions, I can be reached at (518) 268-2164.
Sincerely,
Weston Davey
Historic Site Restoration Coordinator
weston.davey@parks.ny.gov
Division for Historic Preservation
P.O. Box 189, Waterford, New York 12188-0189 • (518) 237-8643 • parks.ny.gov
0 518-237-8643 0 https://Parks.ny.4ov/shpo •