Downtown Newburyport, Courtesy of the City of Newburyport
These are some of the comments on the online petition in support of Newburyport’s Local Historic District (LHD). The petition reads:
“We the undersigned are in support of creating a Local Historic District for Newburyport, Massachusetts that consists of High Street, the gateway to the city, and downtown Newburyport.
We support preserving the historic character of these two areas that are vital to the economic well-being of the city.”
The online petition has reached 200 signatures as of today. One online petition against the LHD has 20 signatures, the other has 1.
The online petition in support of Newburyport’s Local Historic District can be signed here.
Here are some of the comments:
“It is very important that we approve this proposed historic district covering High St. and the downtown area. The proposal is restrained, rational and thoughtful and we are way late in making this designation.”
“This is an important next step for the City of Newburyport. The historical district provides opportunity to assure that its historical character is not lost for future generations.”
“Newburyport must have a designated historic district. It is absolutely foolhardy to not protect these irreplaceable treasures.”
“We live in a historic 1845 home (on High Street) and we think that creation of an LHD will help all of us to preserve the historic character and beauty of Newburyport into the future.”
“I think the LHD is long overdue. My thanks to the committee volunteers for taking on this effort.”
“Absolutely needed!”
“I strongly support the LHD to protect our rights as homeowners. We bought our home specifically because of the consistency of its historic neighborhood. Significant alteration or demolition of historic properties in Newburyport would diminish our experience of living here. Over time, if the historic context is allowed to erode, property values in Newburyport will be far less than they could be.”
“I agree that maintaining the historic nature of our town is what makes Newburyport such a special place to live.”
“LHD is needed to protect the important historical fabric of Newburyport.”
“Please protect our treasured place.”
“The authentic architectural heritage of our city is one of our greatest strengths and adds meaningful value to everyone’s property. We should protect this.”