Our Lady of Victory campus in Lackawanna receives State, National Register of Historic Places designations

Lackawanna, N.Y. (WBEN) - Rejoice! Our Lady of Victory National Shrine & Basilica and the buildings that encompass the OLV campus in Lackawanna have received New York State and National Register of Historic Places designations.

"It truly will help us now to preserve Father Baker's legacy for many years to come, and the next 100 years going forward," said Rev. Msgr. David LiPuma, Pastor and Rector, OLV National Shrine & Basilica.

"Everybody, I think, is kind of surprised because they thought we were already on these registers. But this is something we've been working on the last few years, and it's all the result of our centennial [celebrations] and realizing that there's so much more we can do in partnership now that will help us to continue to take care of these buildings on both sides of the street."

OLV National Shrine & Basilica and 12 buildings on the OLV campus, many of which date back more than 140 years, will make up what is now known as the Our Lady of Victory Roman Catholic Basilica Complex. This announcement not only coincides with OLV's centennial celebrations, but comes on National Historic Preservation Month.

"These places are significant, not just for their architecture, but also for the stories, the stories they embody about people, place and history," notes  Kerry Traynor, Principal of KTA Preservation. "Listing on the state and national registers is largely honorific, property owners are under no obligation to comply with any regulations or actions. However, property is listed on the registers have opportunities to receive preservation benefits and incentives, such as grants and historic rehabilitation tax credits. These programs help to ensure that these buildings are protected and preserved for future generations."

For many years, OLV has offered many services to Lackawanna and surrounding communities, including residential services, education programs, foster care programs and other community-based outreach programs.

In addition to County Executive Mark Poloncarz issuing a proclamation dedicating the day to the OLV, Lackawanna Mayor Anette Iafallo made a big dedication announcement.

"I am pleased to announce that the City of Lackawanna will pursue creation of a local law, which designates Our Lady of Victory Roman Catholic Basilica complex as a historic district. We begin this process immediately with our planning board and our city council, hopefully have more to announce in the coming months."