In the aftermath of a battle around preservation of a Denver diner, local officials are considering changes to the city’s historic landmark law.
Denver city councilmember Kendra Black is developing proposed changes to the city’s landmark designation law. The changes would require more council member votes to pass designations opposed by property owners and, in historic districts, approval by a majority of landowners before an application is filed.
"Recently, the case of Tom’s Diner got national attention: A group of residents wanted to permanently preserve the building as a landmark, but owner Tom Messina wanted to sell the property for demolition and redevelopment," writes Andrew Kenney.
Kenney reports that, in a separate action, a working group has developed additional recommendations for changes to Denver’s landmark designation regulations. "As they consider the changes, city leaders will have to balance the value of historic buildings against the importance of new development and property owners’ rights," notes Kenney.
FULL STORY: After Tom’s Diner controversy, Denver leaders reconsider historic landmark law
Philly City Council to Consider Bill Protecting Neighbors from Construction Damage
The proposal would hold builders accountable for damage incurred to adjacent homes as historic rowhouse properties see increased redevelopment.
Denver Considers Raising the Bar for Preservation
Driven by recent controversies over efforts to have historic buildings designated as landmarks over owner objections, the city of Denver is looking at revising its historic-landmark designation ordinance to prevent "real-estate terrorism."
Chicago Towers Recommended for Adaptive Reuse
Once slated for demolition, two historic buildings owned by the federal government will be restored for new uses.
2024: The Year in Zoning
Cities and states are leaning on zoning reform to help stem the housing crisis and create more affordable, livable neighborhoods.
NACTO Releases Updated Urban Bikeway Guide
The third edition of the nationally recognized road design guide includes detailed design advice for roads that prioritize safety and accessibility for all users.
Denver Pauses Multifamily Development in Westside Neighborhoods Amidst Gentrification Concerns
City officials say the pause on permits for redevelopment projects aims to stop the displacement of long-term residents.
After the Fires: Challenges and Efforts to Heal LA’s Parks and Trails
The recent LA wildfires have devastated parks and trails, with recovery efforts requiring extended closures, collaborative restoration plans, and community support to address extensive damage and long-term risks like landslides.
DC Launches New Round of E-Bike Rebates
District residents can apply for a subsidy of up to $1,500 to purchase e-bikes.
Why Aren’t There More Bollards in US Cities?
Solid barriers, like the dormant ones in New Orleans, are commonly used to improve road safety in Europe. Why not here?
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Berkeley County
Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency (NOACA)
Ada County Highway District
Chaddick Institute at DePaul University
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service
City of Cambridge, Maryland