2020 District of Columbia Historic Preservation Plan

From the Introduction: "Now well into its third century, the District of Columbia is fortunate in the exceptional value of its cultural, historical, and architectural heritage. This is a rich and varied legacy, manifested not just in the city's majestic museums and monuments, but also in its socially diverse and cohesive neighborhoods, places of work and worship, and scenic parks and landscapes. Its layers of history begin before the built environment, in the stories of people, communities, and institutions that have shaped a place whose origins stretch back thousands of years into prehistoric times. This legacy survives not just by chance. It has been protected through the concerted efforts of citizens, organizations, business leaders, and government officials advocating for the value of the city's historic resources. A half century ago, when an organized approach to preservation first began in the District, the population was declining and traditional urbanism was losing favor. Advocates for history fought not just the random demolition of 'obsolete' structures for parking lots, but massive renewal schemes that would destabilize whole neighborhoods. They advanced an alternative vision that our communities are irreplaceable assets, and most of their fabric should be sustained and renewed rather than replaced. During that past half century, the preservation of our heritage has become an accepted principle that has helped the District thrive. Tens of thousands of historic buildings have been protected and adapted to meet modern needs. New life has reinvigorated entire neighborhoods. There has not always been complete agreement on every project, but the general goals of respecting the city's historic assets and character enjoys widespread support. Now, with a strong economy and surging populations, the pressure for redevelopment in the District has intensified. Land and housing costs continue to rise. New residents bring vitality, but also their own expectations about the city they now live in. Some may not have the same appreciation of local heritage as long-time District residents concerned about a loss of community character or fearful of being displaced. This evolution created a new context for preservation, as the principles of smart growth, sustainability, equitable development, and resilience influence public planning goals. We can sustain and improve established tools that work well, while also seeking common cause with new strategies that advance complementary goals. This plan aims to follow that path in order to ensure that historic heritage remains a vital and valued part of our daily lives." Project funding was provided in part by a Historic Preservation Fund grant to the District of Columbia Historic Preservation Office, Office of Planning, administered by the State, Tribal, Local Plans and Grants division, National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior.

2020 District of Columbia Historic Preservation Plan

See also

Collections