Commission adopts 2025 work program priorities, emphasizing citywide plan and Route 66 projects

The Wildwood Historic Preservation Commission voted to adopt its 2025 work program with a prioritized list of active and inactive projects.

Staff presented a reordered list at the commission’s request. The top five active priorities the commission adopted are: (1) citywide historic preservation plan, (2) the city’s 10‑year master plan update, (3) the Asen Log Cabin reconstruction, (4) completion of the Portner Park master plan, and (5) two National Park Service research and nomination grants related to the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom.

Staff and Director Zunich explained why Route 66 projects (items 6–8 on the work program) were given a relatively high ranking: the centennial of Route 66 in 2026 creates a firm deadline and opportunity for a Route 66 roadside park, a local rehabilitation grant program for Route 66 buildings and celebratory programming.

The commission also discussed other active projects including the United States Colored Troops historic marker (staff said they will revisit alternative locations if state park system processes delay placement), continuing partnership on the J.P. Connell House (a recommendation report will go to City Council), and Marycliff preservation discussions (ongoing conversations with the order’s attorney and upcoming city council committee review).

Commissioners moved and seconded adoption of the prioritized work program; the motion passed by raised hands. Staff will transmit the adopted program to City Council and follow up on items that require council approvals or interagency coordination.

Why it matters: the prioritized work program sets staff workload and sequencing of grant-funded projects and public events for 2025, and identifies items with external dependencies (state and federal agencies, property owners).