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SALEM HISTORICAL COMMISSION CORRESPONDENCE 7-1 2009 Salem Historical Commission Correspondence I 0 Salem Historical Commission 120 WASHINGTON STREET,SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS 01970 (978)745-9595 EXT.311 FAX (978)740-0404 December 16, 2009 Brona Simon Executive Director Massachusetts Historical Commission 220 Morrissey Boulevard Boston, MA 02125 RE: Salem Jail Complex Massachusetts Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit application Dear Ms. Simon: I am writing to express the support of the Salem Historical Commission for New Boston Ventures' amended application for Massachusetts Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits for the redevelopment of the historic Salem Jail complex in Salem, Massachusetts. The historic Jail complex has been vacant, neglected, and deteriorating for nearly 20 years. Consisting of the 1813/1884 granite Jail designed by Gridley J.F. Bryant, the ca. 1813 Jail Keeper's house designed by noted Salem architect Samuel McIntire, and the 19t1i century barn, the Salem Jail complex is listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places. A devastating fire in 1999 destroyed much of the interior of the Jail Keeper's House. Following the fire, the Massachusetts Historical Commission awarded grant funds through the Massachusetts Preservation Projects Fund to the City of Salem for the stabilization of the damaged structure. Despite the post-fire stabilization efforts, the Jail, Jail Keeper's house, and barn have continued to deteriorate. In 2005, through a competitive process, the Salem Redevelopment Authority selected New Boston's proposal for a mixed use development consisting of residential, restaurant, artist studio, and jail exhibition space. New Boston's proposal includes creating residential units in the Jail, Jail Keeper's house, a reconstructed barn, and a new architecturally compatible building to be built on the site. A proposed restaurant, an artist studio, and a jail exhibit will provide public access to the historic Jail. Through an extensive review process, New Boston's proposal has received the support of Historic Salem Inc., Salem Redevelopment Authority, and the Salem Planning Board, as well as the Salem Historical Commission. The Salem Historical Commission issued a waiver of the Demolition Delay Ordinance for the barn structure on February 1, 2007 in order to work toward the goal of preservation of the jail and jail keeper's house. Your office, Page 2 12/16/09 which holds a preservation restriction on the property, has previously reviewed and approved New Boston's plans as being consistent with Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. On behalf of the Salem Historical Commission I urge the Massachusetts Historical Commission to continue its support for this valuable historic complex by looking favorably upon New Boston's application for Massachusetts Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits. Sincerely, Hannah Diozzi Chair 0 Salem Historical Commission 120 WASHINGTON STREET, SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS 01970 (978)745-9595 EXT. 311 FAX (978)740-0404 . August 19, 2009 Brona Simon Executive Director Massachusetts Historical Commission 220 Morrissey Boulevard Boston, MA 02125 RE: Salem Jail Complex Massachusetts Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit application Dear Ms. Simon: I am writing to express the support of the Salem Historical Commission for New Boston Ventures' amended application for Massachusetts Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits for the redevelopment of the historic Salem Jail complex in Salem, Massachusetts. The historic Jail complex has been vacant, neglected, and deteriorating for nearly 20 years. Consisting of the 1813/1884 granite Jail designed by Gridley J.F. Bryant, the ca. 1813 Jail Keeper's house designed by noted Salem architect Samuel McIntire, and the 19'h century bam, the.Salem Jail complex is listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places. A devastating fire in 1999 destroyed much of the interior of the Jail Keeper's House. Following the fire, the Massachusetts Historical Commission awarded grant funds through the Massachusetts Preservation Projects Fund to the City of Salem for the stabilization of the damaged structure. Despite the post-fire stabilization efforts, the Jail, Jail Keeper's house, and barn have continued to deteriorate. In 2005, through a competitive process, the Salem Redevelopment Authority selected New Boston's proposal for a mixed use development consisting of residential, restaurant, artist studio, and jail exhibition space. New Boston's proposal includes creating residential units in the Jail, Jail Keeper's house, a reconstructed barn, and a new architecturally compatible building to be built on the site. A proposed restaurant, an artist studio, and ajail exhibit will provide public access to the historic Jail. Through an extensive review process, New Boston's proposal has received the support of Historic Salem Inc., Salem Redevelopment Authority, and the Salem Planning Board, as well as the Salem Historical Commission. The Salem Historical Commission issued a waiver of the Demolition Delay Ordinance for the bam structure on February 1, 2007 in order to work toward the goal of preservation of the jail and jail keeper's house. Your office, Page 2. 8/19/09 which holds a preservation restriction on the property, has previously reviewed and approved New Boston's plans as being consistent with Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. On behalf of the Salem Historical Commission I urge the Massachusetts Historical Commission to continue its.support for this valuable historic complex by looking favorably upon New Boston's application for Massachusetts Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits. Sincerely, Hannah Diozzi Chair r Page 1 of 2 Jane Guy From: markverk@comcast.net Sent: Monday, June 15, 2009 10:07 AM To: Danielle McKnight Cc: Michael Sosnowski; Lynn Duncan; Jane Guy, info@historicsalem.org Subject: Zoning Variance Application 3 Webster Street Re: Zoning Variance Application 3 Webster Street Dear Chairperson Stein, I am writing in support of the variance application to permit the residential redevelopment of the property at 3 Webster Street. 3 Webster Street is a historically significant property which in its present use and condition is not an asset to our residential neighborhood. The proposed redevelopment represents a viable and creative opportunity to preserve this piece of Salem's history, create a use that is consistent with the residential character of the neighborhood, and that is a positive investment in the City of Salem as a whole. Historical Significance The building at 3 Webster Street was originally constructed in 1887 as a trolley barn for the Lynn and Boston Electric Railway Company. The building was among several facilities in the neighborhood that serviced the street railway system trolleys. With the demise of the streetcar system, most of these buildings were demolished and the sites redeveloped with residential uses. 3 Webster Street is the last surviving building in the neighborhood associated with the street railway system. The building is a contributing element in the Bridge Street Neck National Register Historic District and is included in the Inventory of Historical and Archaeological Assets of the Commonwealth. The best means of preserving historic buildings is to ensure that they remain in active use. The proposed redevelopment for residential use represents a sensitive re-use that would result in the rehabilitation of this building while preserving its historic and architectural character. It is highly unlikely that the continuation of permitted uses such as warehousing or a woodworking shop will result in a similarly significant investment in this historic resource. In all likelihood the property will experience only nominal investment and continue to deteriorate over time. Viable Reuse The developer has proposed a reasonable redevelopment proposal given the unique characteristics and constraints of the property. The developer has sought to address neighborhood concerns over the density of the proposed project by reducing the number of units to a total of 6 residential units vs. the 8 units as originally presented in neighborhood meetings. While many in the neighborhood have suggested 4 units as a more appropriate number, given the size of the building, and the considerable investment required to rehabilitate the structure for residential use, clearly such a scheme is not economically viable. The current proposal strikes a reasonable compromise. Residential use vs. continued warehousing or other light industrial use 6/15/2009 ' Page 2 of 2 3 Webster Street is an anomaly in the neighborhood; it is a remaining vestige of the late 19th C. light industrial uses that were common in the Collins Cove area that is now surrounded by residential uses. In.recent years the building has been used for warehousing and a woodworking shop. While these uses have been characterized as low intensity with relatively little impact on the neighborhood, with the sale of the building there is no guarantee that similar future uses will be as benign. Such continued use presents the very real prospect of future nuisance for both immediate abutters and the neighborhood as a whole. By virtue of its mid block location, the continued permitted use of the property for light industrial or warehouse purposes is inconsistent with the existing residential character of the neighborhood. Redevelopment with a residential uses will establish a consistent and compatible land use in this part of the neighborhood. The redevelopment of 3 Webster Street for residential use will result in a major investment in the property and the neighborhood, positively effecting property values and increasing the tax base for the City of Salem. The continuation of currently permitted warehouse or light industrial uses will not result in a similar investment in the property. As previously noted such continued use is only likely to result in nominal if any investment and continued deterioration of this significant historic structure. Parkin Given existing building and site constraints, the developer has indicated that the provision of all required off-street parking is not feasible. The proposal as most recently presented to the neighborhood includes three off-street parking spaces. Available on-street parking would need to accommodate the development's other parking needs. As a resident of Webster Street for the last 2 years, there rarely, if ever, is a problem with available parking spaces either on Webster Street, and to a lesser extent on nearby Pleasant Street. There may be a need to address parking issues through other measures such as the implementation of resident parking restrictions, but concerns over parked cars should not be the overriding factor in assessing the merits of this development proposal. The overall benefit to the neighborhood and preserving this historic building should be a clear priority over automobiles. I trust that the Zoning Board of Appeals will take these comments into consideration as it deliberates this variance request. Thank you for your time and consideration. Mark Verkennis 17 Pleasant Street Salem, MA 01970 978-594-5444 6/15/2009 Page 1 of 1 Jane Guy 2,6� �l From: Paul Falconer[drfalconerlmhc@gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, June 02, 2009 2:29 PM To: Jane Guy Subject: Neighborhood Support for renovation of Salem Trolley Barn on Webster Street Paul Falconer,BEnvDes BArch PhD 17 Pleasant St, Salem, MA 01970 Telephone: 978-594-5444 June 2, 2009 Dear Salem Historic Commission: I am writing to lend my support to the redevelopment of the former Salem Trolley Barn on Webster Street. I have attended the meetings hosted by the developer, Lewis, and I was greatly impressed with his ability to listen to the concerns of local residents. Lewis offered several comprises that I believe were quite reasonable, with parking remaining one of the few concerns. This was address quite adequately in the latest scheme, with some off-street parking, pleasing most of the local residents. The barn remains one of the few physical remnants of Salem's trolley system, and as such, must be preserved for its historic and local interest. The plans and elevations submitted by the developer and his architect show a historically accurate and sensitive restoration of the building materials. Along with Lewis' successful track record in Salem, and the support shown by his development team, I hope that the City is able to approve the application. It is my understanding that the building will be offered for sale irregardless, and it is my belief that the building, street, and surrounding neighborhood would benefit from the renovation and rehabilitation of this historic building. Presently, the building is in need of maintenance and repair, but it is doubtful that there will be any financial incentive to carry this out. It could remain derelict for years, or worse yet, have an active wood shop working all hours of the day and night. Along with my family and neighbors, I believe that maintaining its current designation as a warehouse with a pre-established right to a wood shop is not the highest and best use for the property. I have a great appreciation for architectural beauty and integrity of Salem neighborhoods. Moreover, I am delighted to see how careful the City has been in lending its support to the redeveloping properties in our historic city. I think this project would be an asset to the community, both visually and functionally, allowing new residents to share in the beauty of Salem. I encourage City Council and its various applicable committees to approve the redevelopment of this important site. I would appreciate it if the Board would take the time to consider and lend its support to this important project. Thank you for your time and consideration. Yours Truly, Paul Falconer 6/2/2009 Page 1 of 1 Jane Guy From: Jane Guy Sent: Thursday, April 16, 2009 5:21 PM To: davidatsalem@comcast.net; dougdesrocher@comcast.net; hannandd@msn.com; jherbert5@comcast.net; Joanne McCrea, kharper345@hotmail.com; laurie.e.weisman@state.ma.us; salemknitter@comcast.net; spang@arrowstreet.com Subject: Jail -Tax credit support letter4.doc Attachments: Tax credit support letter4.doc New Boston Ventures needs to re-file for the next round of Mass State Historic Rehab Tax Credits for the jail redevelopment. They have already been awarded $1.3 million in state credits so the support received is effective and much appreciated. They have another$700,000 left to go and request a letter of support by Friday, April 24. 1 have taken our last letter and just changed the dates. Unless I hear otherwise from anyone, I will assume you are all okay with continuing to support this project and will finalize the letter next week. Thanks! Jane 4/21/2009 0 a" l' -Al Salem Historical Commission 120 WASHINGTON STREET, SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS 01970 (978) 745-9595 EXT. 311 FAX (978) 7400404 - April 21, 2009 Brona Simon Executive Director Massachusetts Historical Commission 220 Morrissey Boulevard Boston, MA 02125 RE: Salem Jail Complex Massachusetts Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit application Dear Ms. Simon: I am writing to express the support of the Salem Historical Commission for New Boston Ventures' amended application for Massachusetts Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits for the redevelopment of the historic Salem Jail complex in Salem, Massachusetts. The historic Jail complex has been vacant, neglected, and deteriorating for nearly 20 years. Consisting of the 1813/1884 granite Jail designed by Gridley J.F. Bryant, the ca. 1813 Jail Keeper's house designed by noted Salem architect Samuel McIntire, and the 19`h century barn, the Salem Jail complex is listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places. A devastating fire in 1999 destroyed much of the interior of the Jail Keeper's House. Following the fire, the Massachusetts Historical Commission awarded grant funds through the Massachusetts Preservation Projects Fund to the City of Salem for the stabilization of the damaged structure. Despite the post-fire stabilization efforts, the Jail, Jail Keeper's house, and barn have continued to deteriorate. In 2005, through a competitive process, the Salem Redevelopment Authority selected New Boston's proposal for a mixed use development consisting of residential, restaurant, artist studio, and jail exhibition space. New Boston's proposal includes creating residential units in the Jail, Jail Keeper's house, a reconstructed barn, and a new architecturally compatible building to be built on the site. A proposed restaurant, an artist studio, and ajail exhibit will provide public access to the historic Jail. Through an extensive review process, New Boston's proposal has received the support of Historic Salem Inc., Salem Redevelopment Authority, and the Salem Planning Board, as well as the Salem Historical Commission. The Salem Historical Commission issued a waiver of the Demolition Delay Ordinance for the barn structure on February I, 2007 in order to work toward the goal of preservation of the jail and jail keeper's house. Your office. Page 2 4/21/09 which holds a preservation restriction on the property, has previously reviewed and approved New Boston's plans as being consistent with Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. On behalf of the Salem Historical Commission I urge the Massachusetts Historical Commission to continue its support for this valuable historic complex by looking favorably upon New Boston's application for Massachusetts Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits. Sincerely, Hannah Diozzi Chair Page 1 of 2 Jane Guy From: Tom Daniel Sent: Thursday, April 16, 2009 7:50 AM To: Jane Guy Cc: 'Kelleher, Douglas'; Lynn Duncan Subject: RE: Old Salem Jail: Letter of Support Jane, NBV needs to re-file for the next round of Mass State Historic Rehab Tax Credits. They have already been awarded $1.3 million in state credits so the support received is effective and much appreciated. They have another$700,000 left to go and request a letter of support by Friday. April 24. Please send the letter to Doug Kelleher whose contact information is below. Thank you. Tom From: Tom Daniel Sent: Tuesday, December 23, 2008 3:34 PM To: Jane Guy Cc: 'Kelleher, Douglas'; Lynn Duncan Subject: RE: Old Salem Jail: Letter of Support Jane, NBV received an additional $500,000 in state historic tax credits in the last round of 2008. NBV is preparing to apply for the remaining $1 million and is requesting a letter of support from the Salem Historical Commission by Friday, January 9. Once again, the letter can be the same as what you submitted before with a new date. Please send the letter to Doug Kelleher whose contact information is below. Thank you and happy holidays! Tom From: Tom Daniel Sent: Wednesday, August 20, 2008 3:49 PM To: Tom Daniel; Jane Guy Cc: 'Kelleher, Douglas'; Lynn Duncan Subject: RE: Old Salem Jail: Letter of Support Jane, No awards of state historic tax credits were made during this year's second round. NBV is preparing to submit its third application next week and is requesting another letter of support from the Historical Commission. Once again, the letter can be the same as what you submitted before with a new date. Please send the letter to Doug Kelleher by August 27. Doug's contact information is below. Thank you. Tom 4/16/2009 K Salem Historical Commission 120 WASHINGTON STREET, SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS 01970 (978) 745-9595 EXT. 311 FAX (978)740-0404 February 24, 2009 Brona Simon, Executive Director State Historic Preservation Officer Massachusetts Historical Commission Massachusetts Archives Building 220 Morrissey Boulevard Boston, MA 02125 RE: The First Church in Salem—Application for Massachusetts Preservation Projects Fund Grant Dear Ms. Simon: The Salem Historical Commission is pleased to provide this letter of support for the application submitted by The First Church in Salem for funding under the Massachusetts Preservation Projects Grant Program. The First Church has requested matching funds in the amount of$90,000 out of a total project cost of$180,000 which it would use to restore fundamental elements of this historic structure including its roof, windows and exterior walls. The First Church is the home of the First Congregational Society. Gathered by the Puritans of the Massachusetts Bay Colony in August of 1629, the Society is the oldest Protestant church founded in North America, and the first to be governed by congregational polity. The First Church building, called the Meetinghouse by members of the congregation, was built in 1834 in the stone-clad Gothic Revival style. The building stands proudly in Salem's McIntire Historical District at 316 Essex Street, one of the busiest venues in Salem, well traveled by Salem residents and visitors alike. It is also located within the Chestnut Street National Register district. I urge you to look favorably on the application by The First Church and I thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, ��w q�-), 9-1 Hannah Diozzi Chair �0 Salem Historical Commission 120 WASHINGTON STREET, SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS 01970 (978) 745-9595 EXT 311 FAX (978) 740-0404 February 4, 2009 Ms. Brona Simon Executive Director& State Historic Preservation Officer Massachusetts Historical Commission 220 Morrissey Boulevard Boston, MA 02125 RE: The House of the Seven Gables Application for MPPF funds Dear Ms. Simon, The Salem Historical Commission is pleased to provide this letter of support for The House of the Seven Gables' application for Massachusetts Preservation Project Fund grant funds for the initial planning phase for a comprehensive Master Plan. This National Historic Landmark District constitutes an important part of our American heritage and embarking on a planning process that will protect, preserve and enhance this resource is a vital undertaking. The House of the Seven Gables campus includes significant 17`h century architecture and provides education around American maritime history, literature, and social reform. This pre- planning project will have a long-lasting impact on the museum's work, and is critical to its ability to determine next steps regarding continued preservation activities, interpretive programs, and exhibit enhancements. I urge you to look favorably on the application by The House of the Seven Gables and I thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Tt Hannah Diozzi Chair Page 1 of 3 Jane Guy From: Ingrid Gallagher[IGal lagher@7gables.org] Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 11:23 AM To: Jane Guy Subject: RE: Questions about preparing an MHC funding request Attachments: MHC-PPF-DraftSupportLetter.doc Thank you, Jane! I received the additional inventory forms this morning. You're very speedy! I am attaching a sample letter of support that you can amend as you see fit. Here are a few additional details about the project we are proposing and its importance to the House of the Seven Gables and our community. • Addressee: Brona Simon, Executive Director& State Historic Preservation Officer Massachusetts Historical Commission 220 Morrissey Boulevard Boston, MA 02125 • Summary of Project to be funded: To conduct the pre-planning phase of a complete analysis of the H7G campus, including: existing structures, open space; landscape; topography; circulation; infrastructure; subsurface characteristics; city planning issues; and maintenance and preservation. • Project Detail: As stewards of this unique campus and National Historic Landmark, the Board of Trustees and Staff of the House of the Seven Gables recognize the importance of a comprehensive Master Plan for the nine-building complex. This Master Plan will ultimately address physical issues with buildings and grounds, guide future campus development, and inform the process of aligning programmatic and mission goals with the historic structures. A preliminary step in this process is to make a full analysis of the campus and its environs. This analysis will consist of: an assessment of land ownership and campus boundaries; open space; landscape; topography; circulation and parking; utility infrastructure; subsurface characteristics; city planning issues; use, condition and utilization of existing buildings; and issues specific to maintenance and historic preservation. It is our hope that the Massachusetts Historical Commission Preservation Projects Fund will help support the cost of this initial step in the Master Planning process, estimated at$50,000. • Why the project is the next logical step in the overall facilities planning process: The House of the Seven Gables is currently enjoying a period of exciting vitality, with incisive new leadership in the form of Executive Director Anita Blackaby, a committed Board of Trustees, enhanced community relations, and continued national and international interest in this unique landmark. Applying ourselves to a Master Planning process now will capitalize on this period of momentum and enthusiasm. Additionally, the Board and Staff are currently working on a Strategic Planning process which would benefit from an integration of physical and programmatic issues. • Local support for the project: As active participants in the cultural climate of Salem, we are confident that the project will be embraced by the community at large. We further expect that we can leverage MHC support for this phase of the project with other funding partners and donors to complete the Master Plan and implement its recommendations. Also: • In 2007, The House of the Seven Gables was granted National Historic Landmark status. • In March of 2008, a new Executive Director, Anita Blackaby, was hired after a 5-month national search. With more than 30 years' experience in education and museum administration and a track record of engaging both Boards and communities around cultural institutions, Blackaby's appointment ushers in a period of renewed focus on connecting the Gables mission to its historic campus and to the surrounding 2/2/2009 i > Page 2 of 3 community. Board, staff, and neighboring cultural and economic constituencies are seeing a renewed attention to education, preservation, and social services. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact me at(978)744-0991, X 106. 1 look forward to speaking with you and I appreciate your willingness to help strengthen our proposal. Ingrid Gallagher Grant Writer The House of the Seven Gables 115 Derby Street Salem, MA 01970 (978) 744-0991, extension 106 igallaghetri77ga_.1; eeys_org. Th the L. ..,7. i,.. From: Jane Guy [mailto:]Guy@Salem.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 27, 2009 8:46 AM To: Ingrid Gallagher Subject: RE: Questions about preparing an MHC funding request Hi Ingrid, The fastest way to get a letter of support from the Salem Historical Commission is for you to write a draft letter and email it to me by Tuesday, February 3rd. I will then edit the letter and get it approved at the Commissions 2/4/09 meeting. I will mail you a copy of the 54 Turner Street inventory form. Are there other buildings on the property for which you need forms (the forms are by address, so I would need a list of the addresses if you need additional forms)? I do not believe that you will need anything further from me, but if you have further questions, feel free to call me. Jane Jane A. Guy Assistant Community Development Director City of Salem Department of Planning & Community Development 120 Washington St., 3rd Floor Salem, MA 01970 978-745-9595, Ext. 5685 (F)978-740-0404 jguy_@salem_com www.salem.com From: Ingrid Gallagher [mailto:IGallagher@7gables.org] Sent:Monday, January 26, 2009 4:18 PM To: Jane Guy Subject: Questions about preparing an MHC funding request Dear Ms. Guy, 2/2/2009 ' Page 3 of 3 1 am new to the House of the Seven Gables and to the Salem area. I am in the process of preparing my first application for funding from the Mass. Historical Commission —for the pre-development phase of a master plan for the House of the Seven Gables campus. I know there are a number of application elements they require I receive from you. I am hoping you can help me with: 1)a letter of support for our project 2) an Inventory Form 3) are there other requirements that you are aware of? Is there a best time to reach you by phone? Is there someone else to whom I should direct my questions? I appreciate your help and guidance! Ingrid Gallagher Grant Writer The House of the Seven Gables 115 Derby Street Salem, MA 01970 (978)744-0991, extension 106 igallagher 7oables.org The>`'hHue `5'even gabks .:.' 2/2/2009 c- r Salem Historical Commissi®n 120 WASHINGTON STREET,SALEM,MASSACHUSETTS 01970 (978)745-9595 EXT.311 FAX(978)740-0404 January 7,2009 Brona Simon 4 Executive Director Massachusetts Historical Commission 220 Morrissey Boulevard Boston, MA 02125 RE: Salem Jail Complex Massachusetts Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit application Dear Ms. Simon: I am writing to express the support of the Salem Historical Commission for New Boston Ventures' amended application for Massachusetts Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits for the redevelopment of the historic Salem Jail complex in Salem, Massachusetts. The historic Jail complex has been vacant,neglected, and deteriorating for nearly 20 years. Consisting of the 1813/1884 granite Jail designed by Gridley J.F. Bryant,the ca. 1813 Jail Keeper's house designed by noted Salem architect Samuel McIntire,and the 190' century barn, the Salem Jail complex is listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places. A devastating fire in 1999 destroyed much of the interior of the Jail Keeper's House. Following the fire,the Massachusetts Historical Commission awarded grant funds through the Massachusetts Preservation Projects Fund to the City of Salem for the stabilization of the damaged structure. Despite the post-fire stabilization efforts,the Jail, Jail Keeper's house, and barn have continued to deteriorate. In 2005,through a competitive process,the Salem Redevelopment Authority selected New Boston's proposal for a mixed use development consisting of residential,restaurant, artist studio, and jail exhibition space. New Boston's proposal includes creating residential units in the Jail,Jail Keeper's house, a reconstructed barn, and a new architecturally compatible building to be built on the site. A proposed restaurant,an artist studio,and a jail exhibit will provide public access to the historic Jail. Through an extensive review process,New Boston's proposal has received the support of Historic Salem Inc., Salem Redevelopment Authority, and the Salem Planning Board,as well as the Salem Historical Commission. The Salem Historical Commission issued a waiver of the Demolition Delay Ordinance for the barn structure on February 1, 2007 in order to work toward the goal of preservation of the jail and jail keeper's house. Your office, f Page 2 1/7/09 which holds a preservation restriction on the property,has previously reviewed and approved New Boston's plans as being consistent with Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. On behalf of the Salem Historical Commission I urge the Massachusetts Historical Commission to continue its support for this valuable historic complex by looking favorably upon New Boston's application for Massachusetts Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits. Sincerely, Hannah Diozzi ¢ Chair r. s a F