Residents of Park Slope are fighting to preserve a historic brownstone facing demolition by the city
The home, located at 44 Berkeley Place, has been vacant since 2001 and has fallen into disrepair. Neighbors and preservationists are asking a judge to intervene and stop the demolition. They believe the property could be worth millions if restored.
City officials argue that the building is unsafe, citing issues like a collapsed roof and rotting floor joists. They’ve issued multiple violations over the years, and the owner, 77-year-old Yves Calvin, hasn’t been able to maintain it.
Calvin, a Vietnam War veteran, has struggled with the property since his mother passed away in 1993. Neighbors have noticed a decline in his presence, especially during the pandemic. They even spent $3,000 to put up a construction wall to deter loitering around the property.
At a recent court hearing, city officials proposed transferring control of the property to the public administrator. This could give them time to find an investor willing to restore the building. The area is known for its historic charm, and losing this home could impact the neighborhood’s character.
Local councilwoman Shahana Hanif has also voiced her support for saving the building. She believes restoring it would benefit the community and help Calvin financially. If the home is demolished, Calvin would still face hefty fines and costs.
Neighbors are hopeful that their efforts will pay off and that this piece of history can be saved for future generations.
