Reasons to establish a historic district

Establishing a historic district may be justified when a concentrated assemblage of historic structures represents an architectural period or style. There are a variety of reasons to establish a local historic district.

Protection of historic properties
The primary function of most historic districts is to give protection to historic structures within their boundaries. This protection is offered though review of proposed changes by a historic commission, an appointed group that determines whether such changes are appropriate and preserve historic character. The district may be small and include only a few structures, or may be on a city scale.

Control new development
Provisions in a historic district ordinance can include review of new construction to ensure it is compatible with the existing historic character. New buildings can be contemporary in appearance to represent the time when they are built, but also can be designed to be conpatible with older buildings with a more traditional style.

Serve as a development incentive
Developers want to invest in areas with good future potential. Many historic districts couple long-term stability with affordable properties; this combination serves as a development incentive.

Stabilization of property values
The designation of a historic district has stabilized or increased property values in many communities. This is especially important in older blighted areas.

Public relations and promotion
Historic districts attract visotors. Studies have shown tourists stay longer and spend more money in historic districts than in most other destinations.