Preservation Houston is creating a watch list to identify threatened historic buildings that could be redeveloped using local, state and federal preservation incentives. PH has traditionally worked behind the scenes contacting owners, architects and developers to explain the benefits of rehabilitating and repurposing historic properties. The watch list will provide PH members with regular updates on threatened buildings.
Rossonian Cleaners (1928) / photo by David Bush
Rossonian Cleaners
The Rossonian Cleaners building, 3921 Almeda Road, is part of the historic streetscape of what was once a major retail artery leading from Midtown to neighborhoods farther south. The original section of the building was completed in 1928 for Rossonian Cleaners and Tailors. Although a later addition to the south side of the building has been altered, the 1928 structure retains almost all its original architectural features.
The North Houston Highway Improvement Project proposes widening Interstate 69/U.S. Highway 59 adjacent to the Rossonian property. Although the addition is in the proposed expanded highway right of way, the original 1928 building is not.
PH has contacted the Texas Department of Transportation to advocate for the 1928 Rossonian building's preservation and has contacted the building's owner to explain the benefits of designating the building as a City of Houston protected landmark. If the building were to be landmarked and rehabilitated to high standards, it could qualify for state and federal preservation incentives.