Historic Preservation & Architectural Review Board

Members

The City of Cohoes Historic Preservation & Architectural Review Board (HPARB) is a five-member citizen board appointed by the Mayor with five-year staggered terms.

 • Danielle Cherniak, Chair

 • Barbara Hildreth, Vice Chair          

 • Tom Rifenberg                                                                                     

 • Evan Lamb

 • John Frainier 

Overview

All owners of property located within Historic Overlay Zoning Districts in Cohoes must obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) if they plan any exterior work on structures on their property or other changes to their property visible from a public street or way. This includes any change in the appearance of the property such as exterior painting, signs, awnings, light fixtures, fences, steps, sidewalks, parking lots, doors and windows, or other exterior elements. A COA is also required for new construction within designated Historic Districts, or demolition of designated local landmarks or structures within Historic Districts. In all cases, a COA is required whether or not a building permit is also necessary.

Please contact the City Planner should you have any questions regarding requirements in the historic district. 

Minutes, Agendas, and Future Meeting Dates 

Visit the City’s agenda center to access past meeting agendas, power points, and minutes, as well as upcoming meeting material. All scheduled meeting dates and their submission deadlines are listed below. Contact the Office of Planning should you have any questions.

*All deadlines and meeting dates are subject to change

Helpful Links

 Historic Guidelines 

 Gives a detailed overview of the Historic designations within the City of Cohoes, HPARB project review requirements  for applicants, and best practices on renovations, restorations and new builds. 

 Application Guidelines

 Provides a project checklist and detailed overview of the HPARB application process. \

 Acceptable Color Pallet in the Historic Overlay District 

 The HPARB requires applicants to choose colors for exterior work and signage from the Benjamin Moore Historic  Color Pallet. Please take this into account when developing your project. 

 Technical Preservation Guidance

 Provides a comprehensive overview of maintenance and preservation techniques and best practices. Additional  guidance can be provided by contacting the City Planner.