Ditmas Park Could Be Next Landmarks Battleground

By Matthew Hampton and Amy Sara Clark

The beautiful homes of Ditmas Park are on the verge of being protected by the city — but will the new protections box in too many homeowners?

If City Councilman Jumaane Williams has his way, the Victorian Gingerbreads of Ditmas Park could get Landmark status from the city — for better or worse — according to the New York Daily News.

The paper wrote over the weekend about a 400-plus page proposal that seeks to protect many of the historic and beautiful homes in the neighborhood.

Many sections are already landmarked, such as Ditmas Park and Fiske Terrace. But most aren't, so Williams is petitioning to get the following areas the same protections: Beverly Square East, Beverly Square West, Caton Park, Ditmas Park West, South Midwood and West Midwood, according from a news release from Williams.

The idea has support among some, but is also raising eyebrows.

The financial burden of upkeep on a city-protected home is much heavier than a normal property, one local resident noted, meaning struggling families in the area could be forced into a tough position.

What do you think? Is a historic district the right way to protect the character of Ditmas Park? Let us know in the comments.