The Massachusetts Historical Commission (MHC) voted in favor of establishing a Historic District in Uphams Corner during a meeting on Dec. 13, sending the matter to the National Park Service for final review and implementation.

Ben Haley of MHC presented the petition, which was brought by Dorchester Bay Economic Development Corporation to the commissioners in order, he said, to enter into the Federal Rehabilitation Tax Credit program for renovations done to the Pierce Building.

However, he noted, the district would be much more than the Pierce Building; iot would comprise 35 resources in an area centered on Columbia Road – south of Annabel Street and north of Bird Street.

“We are excited about the approval of Upham’s Corner as a Historic District by the Massachusetts Historical Commission and look forward to the formal National Register designation by the National Park Service,” said Susan Chu, director of real estate at DBEDC.

“The Historic District branding will shine a spotlight of attention on Uphams Corner, which is poised for significant growth and investment. This designation would bring more foot traffic and customers to our small businesses, boost our local economy, and bring benefits to property owners, business owners, and residents alike.”

Haley noted that Uphams Corner emerged as one of the most important commercial and retail centers outside of downtown Boston in the late 1800s – with the original Amos Uphams Market initiating commerce in the area some 100 years earlier. “Uphams Corner is the only major business district in the northern half of Dorchester and is considered the marketplace in Dorchester,” he said.

Several municipal buildings that have been added to the area, like the circa 1925 fire station on Columbia Road, are considered important assets in the district.

Columbia Road, which was originally labeled the Dorchesterway, “was the final piece laid out by Frederick Law Olmsted in the Emerald Necklace Plan.”

If approved, as expected, by the Park Service, the new historic district would be added to the National Register of Historic Places.