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Rochester designates Central Park a historic landmark
Summary
Council approved a historic landmark designation for Central Park, finding it meets criteria for community significance and historic integrity (period of significance 1856–1945). Historic preservation staff and local historians testified in support; council approved an ordinance directing the city attorney to prepare implementing language.
Parks staff presented an eligibility study recommending Central Park be designated as a Rochester historic landmark under criteria recognizing its role as a public square and its architectural and urban-form significance. Staff noted the park’s period of significance as 1856–1945 and said the property retains the seven aspects of historic integrity relevant to the designation.
Public testimony included longtime advocates and historians: Barb Hudson described Central Park as the ‘heart of Rochester’ and noted the park was donated in 1856; Barry Skolnick and others said the park’s diagonal walkways, mature bur oaks and continuity of use make the nomination appropriate. Staff acknowledged a State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) comment noting the Whiting (Heritage) House within the park as a potential non-contributing element; the Historic Preservation Commission reviewed SHPO feedback and concluded the park’s overall integrity remains intact.
Councilmember Palmer moved to approve the designation and direct the city attorney to prepare an ordinance; the motion passed unanimously.
