Nominate an endangered building

Historic preservation is important to the fabric of any community. An edifice is not just a place through which we enter and depart; it tells a story and establishes a culture. It is as much a part of our identity as the people who occupy it. For that reason, we draw attention to the process for submitting nominations to the Historic Preservation Commission for its 2016 list of endangered buildings.

One beloved building that has garnered attention and support is Cape Girardeau's Broadway Theater, which has remained vacant since 1997 and topped the list in 2015. "Once a vaudeville-show crowd pleaser," as the Southeast Missourian recently reported, "the spacious, brick building at 805 Broadway topped the list of the city's 'endangered buildings' last year." It may do so again, but other buildings have potential and should be considered for preservation, as well.

This is where we come in.

Anyone who deems a building historically significant is encouraged to provide the commission with a statement explaining that significance, why he deems it endangered and what he believes can be done to preserve it. A photograph of the site as it currently stands must also be submitted. All submissions are due by March 11 and are to be made via the city's website, by email at cityplanning@cityofcape.org or by mail to Cape Girardeau City Hall, 401 Independence St., Cape Girardeau, MO 63703.

Alyssa Phares, who chairs the commission, said the goal of the list is to enlighten the public of the historic buildings and the need of their preservation.

The Historic Preservation Commission will review the submissions March 30 and finalize the list at its April 20 meeting. The public is invited to attend both meetings, which will take place at city hall.

This is your community, and your voice counts. Take advantage of this opportunity.