Architect: Many benefits from tax credits to restore historic buildings

Oklahoma has lost too many treasures already. Eliminating this important economic development tool would only further denigrate the people's appreciation, knowledge and connection to Oklahoma's unique history.

The historic rehabilitation tax credit is a small investment for the myriad benefits it yields. Can you imagine downtown Oklahoma City without the Skirvin Hotel or downtown Tulsa without the Mayo Hotel? Imagine Perry without its historic 1910 Building or Muskogee without the Severs Block or Alva without the Bell Hotel. Historic rehabilitation with the development incentive of a tax credit is making a positivie difference across Oklahoma.

Seamans, of Norman, is principal of D5 Architecture Co. and president of the Central Oklahoma chapter of the American Institute of Architects.