The desire among developers to maximize the available density under current zoning in Prospect Heights has resulted in the destruction of historic buildings in our community. Three examples are discussed below.

272 St. Marks Avenue was a rare example of an early 19th century two-storey house in Prospect Heights. It was demolished in 2007 as part of the clearance of several lots for the construction of a large four-storey apartment building.

330 Park Place was part of a group of three free-standing Victorian houses on Park Place between Vanderbilt and Underhill Avenues, a block whose 19th century buildings had been previously intact. The building was purchased by a developer in 2006 who demolished the structure, leaving only the porch. After a larger multiunit building was constructed behind it, the porch itself was demolished in the fall of 2007.

528 Bergen Street was an excellent example of a 19th century light manufacturing building. As this part of the neighborhood was originally built, manufacturing mixed with residential uses in the northern part of Prospect Heights, an important part of the history of diverse land uses in our community. The building was demolished in 2005 for the construction of a taller and deeper multiunit building.

The existing zoning alone is not sufficient to prevent the destruction of these and other historic structures, but the historic designation conferred on Prospect Heights by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission now helps to protect historic buildings in the neighborhood from demolition. Prospect Heights' history is reflected in its rich architecture, which should be preserved for future generations of community members.