A nonprofit publication of the Kentucky Center for Public Service Journalism

Gateway CTC to begin offering historic preservation arts classes at Urban Metro Campus in Covington


Gateway Community & Technical College will offer, for the first time, historic preservation arts classes beginning Feb. 2, at the Urban Metro Campus in Covington.

Gateway’s Historic Preservation Arts programming was born out of a grass-roots effort led by Progress with Preservation, a local group of Covington residents and regional advocates for the preservation of the region’s architectural heritage.

These community members came to Gateway with the need to train local craftsmen in preserving historic sites.

HPA programming has been, and continues to be developed through input from regional historic preservation officers, tradesmen, real estate professionals, contractors, and engaged citizens. Pilot programming is scheduled to begin in February and additional programming will be added as it is developed.

Throughout the past year, contractors were surveyed regarding need for, interest in and support for the development of the program. In addition, input, data and letters of support were collected from property owners, municipalities, government agencies and local preservation advocacy organizations.

Currently, letters of support have been received from the Ludlow Historic Society, the City of Fort Thomas and the Kentucky Heritage Council. In addition, the Covington City Commission passed an Order/Resolution in October 2016 supporting the development of the program.

Figueroa

“These are the types of educational experiences that we love to provide for our community,” stated Gateway President Dr. Fernando Figueroa. “Not only will students learn an important skill, but they will help preserve the heart and soul of our community in so many ways.”

Six courses are currently scheduled for 2017. Students will learn the basics of historic preservation theory and practice, to photograph the architecture of historical landmarks and to assess condition and create a rehabilitation and maintenance plan for historic sites, focusing on the craft and artistic skill of historic preservation.

Courses will be taught by Beth Johnson and Steve Oldfield, experts in historic preservation and the chronicling of it.

According to the Kentucky Heritage Council, the Commonwealth ranks fourth among states in the number of listings in the National Register of Historic Places, with more than 3,400 districts, sites and structures encompassing more than 42,000 historic features.

“The Northern Kentucky River Cities and Cincinnati have a wealth of historic buildings that give unique personality to our cities and demonstrate the beauty of our architectural heritage,” said Lisa Sauer of Progress with Preservation. “Yet finding tradespeople with the right skills to tackle plaster, historic windows, metal and tile roofing, decorative trim, and all the nuances of great restoration is becoming more and more difficult.  Our hope for the Gateway program is that it educates a new generation of crafts men and women who become an integral part of our community and breathe new life into the beautiful architecture of the region.”

National Register-listed sites quality for the Federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit. In Covington alone, there are 17 historic districts (which include more than 5,200 resources), and the local designation and protection of seven historic preservation overlay zones (which include over 1,800 resources).

Schroer

“We are fortunate to have such a large stock of historically and architecturally significant buildings.  They have amazing potential to attract growing businesses and new residents who are demonstrating strong demand for these types spaces,” said Jeanne Schroer President/Chief Executive Officer, Catalytic Development Funding Corp. of Northern Kentucky. “By offering a historic preservation curriculum, Gateway is filling a significant gap that exists in our ability to deliver quality product to our market that will contribute to a growing tax base and benefit our residents.”

Gateway is committed to the art and science of historic preservation because it contributes to economic development and celebrates the unique assets of the community.

“Our role is that of a collaborator, a catalyst through which many forces can join to make a collective impact, “said Dr. Patricia Mahabir, Gateway executive vice president.

Currently, courses are community-based, non-credit courses. They are offered in a pilot program as Gateway continues to evaluate the interest and need for a larger program in historic preservation arts. In addition, Steve Oldfield will teach Movies with a Mission and Social Documentary Photography through community arts education.

For more information about historical preservation arts and community arts education at Gateway, contact patricia.mahabir@kctcs.edu or call 859.442.1173.

Gateway Community & Technical College


Related Posts

Leave a Comment