These historic sites—be they buildings, districts, or natural landscapes—are closer to destruction than any others in the United States.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation released its annual list of the 11 Most Endangered Historic Places in the United States.
As Next City points out, eight of the 11 are located in urban areas, including San Francisco’s Embarcadero District, Downtown Flemington in New Jersey, and two El Paso neighborhoods. In a statement accompanying the list, the Trust argues that historical preservation plays "a key role" in the growth and resurgence of cities across the country.
Millions of Americans are choosing to relocate to urban areas … Our research suggests that older buildings are one of the most powerful tools we have for the continued revitalization of our nation’s urban centers.
Some of the sites risk being demolished to make way for development. But others, like the Embarcadero, are threatened by sea level rise or other effects of climate change.
These lists have identified more than 270 endangered sites since 1988, aiming to galvanize support for their preservation; several entries include immediate calls to action.
Read the full story: "Most Endangered" List Has 8 Urban Landmarks to Save
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City of Rosemead
Rutgers University, Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy
One Hundred Miles
Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY)
The Architects Foundation
University of Cincinnati Online
City of Cambridge
Montrose County
The Pocatello Development Authority