THE RURBAN FRINGE

The Value of Historic Restoration

Posted on | January 12, 2010 | No Comments

One of the great things about my job is having the opportunity to become involved in a wide variety of projects – large and small – with the end goal resulting in increased economic, social, and additional opportunities for the area.

One such project I’m currently working on is the restoration of a historically significant structure.  While it’s definitely seen better days, the structure is a rare example of early-20th century municipal infrastructure … it’s a water tower.

Gleichen, Alberta

And while some may argue that historic restoration has no value, I’d agree … it has a multitude of values:  cultural, aesthetic, political, social, environmental, educational, economic. 

Historic preservation and restoration can benefit developers, landowners, neighbourhoods, community groups, visitors, and the community-at-large.

In an increasingly globalized economy, historic structures can house the services, education, ideas, unique products, culture and entertainment of the 21st century and lend it a sense of quality and authenticity.
 
There’s also no better way to maintain, understand, and appreciate a local culture than the ongoing, evolving use of a community’s historic resources.  Historic preservation fosters economic globalization while encouraging cultural conservation.
 
Historic structures also play an important role in community-building … they are the physical manifestations of a community’s identity.  They reduce sprawl as no new land is needed when a structure is restored.  They are a vehicle for fiscal responsibility as related infrastructure (e.g. roads, water, sewer, etc.) already exists.
 
And while historic restoration projects may seem to cost more to undertake … they are involving your community in the globalized economy.  They foster a sense of community pride and identity.  They are easier on the environment.  And they save scarce public resources.
 
Historic preservation means looking back, to move forward.
 
Photo Source:  Glenbow Museum - Archives

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