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.
Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.
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Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.
Driving Equity and Clean Air: California Invests in Greener School Transportation
California has awarded $500 million to fund 1,000 zero-emission school buses and chargers for educational agencies as part of its effort to reduce pollution, improve student health, and accelerate the transition to clean transportation.
Congress Moves to End Reconnecting Communities and Related Grants
The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee moved to rescind funding for the Neighborhood Equity and Access program, which funds highway removals, freeway caps, transit projects, pedestrian infrastructure, and more.
From Throughway to Public Space: Taking Back the American Street
How the Covid-19 pandemic taught us new ways to reclaim city streets from cars.
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