A giant corporation will donate millions of dollars to revitalize several cherished Brooklyn landmarks — if enough history buffs vote for them, that is.
Nine iconic Brooklyn places including the Brooklyn Public library’s main branch and Park Slope’s Congregation Beth Elohim synagogue are facing off against 31 other historic New York City structures in an “American Idol”-style contest to determine how the bank and financier American Express will spend $3 million slated for renovation work.
Brooklynites can vote for their favorite preservation projects — such as returning the B&B Carousell to Coney Island, rebuilding the bulkhead at the Greenpoint Manufacturing and Design Center, fixing the synagogue’s roof, or replacing the library’s doors — and the four most popular projects will divvy up the cash.
“It’s a fascinating thing to do,” said Brooklyn historian Francis Morrone. “Buildings in desperate conditions — like the synagogue — should be taken care of first.”
Contest promoters say voters should log on and vote — and do it for the children.
“It preserves history so our kids know what it looks like,” said Katie Jackson, a spokeswoman for Partners in Preservation, the organization in charge.
Anyone above age 13 is allowed to vote once per day through May 21.
Reach reporter Natalie O'Neill at [email protected] or by calling her at (718) 260-4505.
