Chapter Thirteen
HISTORIC PRESERVATION

Historic Preservation

Historic preservation adds value to private property. Studies across the nation have shown that where local historic districts are established, property values typically rise which, in turn, helps to establish a climate for investment and reinvestment. Property owners within a district know that the time and money spent on improving their properties will be matched with similar efforts on surrounding lots. People invest in a neighborhood as well as in an individual lot.

Rehabilitating a historic building can also cost less than constructing a new one. For example, preserving building elements that are in good repair is generally less expensive than replacing them. Even in cases where appropriate restoration may cost more than less sensitive treatments, property owners are compensated for the added expense by the added value to the property.

Aesthetic Appeal and Quality of Life

One of preservation’s most obvious advantages is that it creates more attractive places to live and work. The style and variety of historic places make communities more visually appealing. Historic neighborhoods are also more “user friendly.” Mature trees, buildings closer to the street, and decorative architectural features contribute to a sense of identity that is unique for each historic neighborhood. These attributes encourage more pedestrian activity and interaction between neighbors. The physical sense of neighborhood also contributes to a sense of security in that it is more convenient to get to know ones’ neighbors and become familiar with who lives in the neighborhood.