The Astrodome Is One Step Closer to Immortality
On Tuesday the Texas Historical Commission approved the Astrodome's application to become a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark. The new designation comes with protection under state law. The Astrodome will be protected for up to 90 days before alterations and/or demolition can take place, buying preservationists time to push back. The designation also qualifies the landmark for state preservation grant funds and ad valorem tax exemptions, if granted by local taxing authorities. A Historical Landmark Designation must be purchased for the site with local funds; the price for such a designation ranges from $350 to $1,800 depending on how it is displayed (plaque vs. a monument, for example) and what is included on it.
Last year, the Astrodome received its designation as a State Antiquities Landmark, also from the Texas Historical Commission. The new designations are not a full remedy for Astrodome preservationists. According to Harris County Judge Ed Emmett, the county can still decide what to do with the stadium but now will need final approval from the state. Details of the marker's official dedication ceremony are still to be determined.
Very pleased to share that the Recorded Texas Historic Landmark marker application for the Astrodome submitted by fellow historian Mike Vance and myself has been approved by the @TxHistComm. Details for dedication of the marker are TBD, but great news today. pic.twitter.com/eL2MHqCRHc
— Mike Acosta (@AstrosTalk) January 31, 2018
