When Affordability And Preservation Collide

"The area around Ohio State University is known for oversized apartment complexes on narrow lots shoehorned between stately, century-old brick homes and duplexes. But in recent years, a few new apartment houses have been designed to fit in. "It added to the cost of development, but I think it was money well-spent," said Bill Graver, vice president and general manager of Buckeye Real Estate. He said that Buckeye was receptive to the changes the commission requested and that the project is a good example of how conflict between the goals of historic preservation and affordable housing can be resolved. Infill, or building homes on vacant lots within a developed area, is as important in neighborhoods as affordable housing, said Randy Black, assistant city historic-preservation officer. "Affordability does not run counter to preservation."