Rendering courtesy of Smith Edwards McCoy Architects
On February 4, 2014, Frank H. Hagaman, Executive Director of the Hartford Preservation Alliance (HPA) and Meryth Andrews, Chair of the Board of Directors of the John E. Rogers African American Cultural Center (JERAACC) signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on the renovation of the signature Northwest School on Albany Avenue to create a sustainable cultural center. Both organizations will work together on what is to be a signature project to revitalize and restore this iconic Upper Albany landmark.
The project is a priority of the City of Hartford, the Connecticut Department of Economic & Community Development, the State Historic Preservation Office and the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation. $1 million has been committed to mitigate hazardous materials and stabilize the exterior structure and the project is now poised to take critical next steps. The ground breaking for the renovation of this historic building will occur in the spring.
HPA and JERAACC have agreed to work together:
- HPA is to provide administrative support to the project sponsor
- Jointly work together to inform and educate on the historic significance of a treasured school
- Work with the National Trust for Historic Preservation to create a sustainable, dynamic and economically feasible center
- Organize and explore financial resources to create and maintain the historic building
Hartford Mayor Pedro Segarra and the city’s Department of Economic Development have been diligent in contributing time and talent towards the efforts to have this historic resource rejoin the vitality of Upper Albany Avenue. HPA is delighted to have been asked to join the team.
Please follow our progress on www.facebook.com/hartfordpreservationalliance.