What do Fenway Park, the Bunker Hill Monument, King's Chapel, Old City Hall and the Paul Revere House have in common?
Nothing truly significant as of now, but Red Sox ownership is hoping that changes in 2012.
John Henry and company are hoping to get Fenway Park on the National Register of Historic Places this coming spring — joining the four aforementioned sites, according to the Boston Herald.
"Being listed is a logical and important way to confirm public recognition of the historic significance of Fenway Park," said David Friedman, Red Sox senior vice president. "This could be another significant aspect of our 100th anniversary celebration."
By joining this list, ownership would be in line for a 20 percent investment tax credit. Henry’s group has received $11.4 million in historic tax credits so far and is hoping for another $28.4 million, according to Secretary of State William Galvin’s office.
"Designation to the National Register is very important to the Red Sox because it supports much of the revitalization efforts that they’ve been carrying out over the last decade," said Historic Boston Executive Director Kathy Kottaridis. "It also brings great credibility to the team’s efforts in historic preservation because it’s an important site."
"Being listed puts you in line for historic tax credits for doing the right kind of preservation," Kottaridis added. "The tax credits are available to help support doing the kind of high-quality preservation that often is required in places like Fenway Park. It’s an incentive to do it, and the federal combined with the state can add up to 40 percent of eligible costs."
Friedman has acknowledged that the team has spent $285 million in private capital to upgrade the park, which turns 100 next year.
