Are Historic Districts Necessary?

The prospect of higher property values have caused many residents to form historic districts, though questions arise as to the actual historic significance of the neighborhoods.

1 minute read

March 20, 2006, 8:00 AM PST

By Matt Baumann

"As the real-estate market begins to cool, a growing number of homeowners are seeking to boost their property values by getting their neighborhoods designated as historic districts.

Local historic districts, which can trigger regulations on everything from window repair to demolitions, are proliferating across the United States. But the desire for historic designation has some communities touting characteristics with questionable preservation value. Homeowners in Denver say their neighborhood deserves historic designation because it is an early example of large front lawns. A Phoenix subdivision is seeking historic status because it says its ranch homes were the first in the city with central air conditioning."

Thanks to Matt Baumann

Read the full story: More U.S. homeowners seek historic designation

Thursday, March 16, 2006 in Wall Street Journal via Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

History / Preservation United States

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