Historical society announces preservation awards

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

The Mahoning Valley Historical Society recently presented five Historic Preservation Awards for outstanding revitalization projects and the impact to the area during a ceremony at the Tyler History Center.

One award was presented for the renovation and restoration of the Youngstown City Hall Annex. The work was completed by Olsavsky Jaminet Architects Inc. The structure was built in 1933 and has undergone extensive renovations with care given to preserve its classic design.

The restoration and renovation of the Wick Park Recreation Center which was completed by Faniro Architects Inc. also was honored. The center was in need of renovation after 60 years of continuous use with only intermittent repairs and cosmetic improvements.

Other recipients of the recognitions included:

The renovation and restoration of the four-unit apartment building at 650 Clearmount Drive in Youngstown that is owned by the Youngstown Neighborhood Development Corp. Frank Rulli of Faniro Architects Inc. completed that work. Built in 1928, the multi-family residential property has undergone full rehabilitation. The four units are now fully occupied.

St. Anthony of Padua Church’s bell tower, which was restored by A.O. Construction and Restoration Inc. and The Verdin Co. Harsh weather conditions caused the bricks of the tower to deteriorate, resulting in the structure being declared unsafe. Major restoration has taken place in line with the original 1958 blueprints.

The DoubleTree by Hilton Youngstown Downtown for restoration and renovation by MS Consultants Inc. with Annissa Neider as project manager. Built in 1907, the former office and retail building added four more floors in 1914, but was left mostly vacant by 2012. It now boasts 47 different room types, from suites to king rooms, and can host multiple businesses.

The MVHS preservation awards committee has been recognizing organizations and individuals since 2005. For details about MVHS, visit www.mahoninghistory.org/.