Study Finds Historic District Preservation Does Not Hinder Development or Housing Growth

In recent years, preservationists in Philadelphia have faced skepticism regarding the impact of historic designation on development and housing supply. Detractors, including various neighborhood groups, have actively opposed the establishment of new historic districts, arguing that such designations impede growth and limit housing availability. However, new data from a comprehensive study commissioned by the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia and conducted by PlaceEconomics offers a fresh perspective on these claims.

The study reveals that approximately 5% of Philadelphia’s land and 4.4% of its buildings are listed on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places, a marked increase from just 2.2% in 2016. This rise in designations highlights the growing acknowledgment of the value of preserving historic neighborhoods, as the city aligns itself more closely with other metropolitan areas in terms of heritage conservation efforts. The efforts have been bolstered by initiatives from the administration of Mayor Jim Kenney, including the formation of a Historic Preservation Task Force aimed at enhancing the city’s preservation framework.

Contrary to long-held beliefs that historic districts curb development, the research indicates that these areas actively support growth and increased density. Notably, population density in historic districts is 34% higher than in non-designated neighborhoods, while housing units in these districts have surged by 26% over the past decade, nearly tripling the overall citywide growth rate. Furthermore, the report underscores a trend of increasing diversity in historic neighborhoods, suggesting that preservation efforts contribute to greater racial and economic inclusion, with nonwhite homeownership in these regions rising at a faster pace than the broader city metrics.

The findings of the study are integral to Mayor Cherelle Parker’s H.O.M.E initiative, which focuses on fostering affordable housing opportunities. The preservation of older housing stock is identified as a crucial factor in promoting homeownership among Black and Hispanic residents, thereby offering pathways to economic mobility.

Beyond statistical insights, historic neighborhoods provide a unique character and intrinsic beauty that is often lacking in newer developments. Many of these areas were designed prior to the automobile’s dominance, emphasizing pedestrian-friendly features and diverse architectural styles. This thoughtful urban planning has resulted in communities that naturally embody density and vibrancy, aspects that newer, car-centric developments frequently struggle to achieve.

Historic districts have also demonstrated their capacity to adapt and welcome new housing opportunities. Developers are increasingly drawn to these neighborhoods, seizing the chance to build on vacant lots or redevelop sites containing noncontributing structures, with oversight from the Historical Commission to maintain the districts’ character.

Moreover, the economic benefits of preservation are significant. Philadelphia stands out as a national leader in historic tax credit projects, which have generated approximately 2,500 jobs and 1 million in annual labor income since 2010, attesting to the financial viability of preservation as both an economic and cultural strategy.

In summary, the insights gleaned from the latest study challenge longstanding criticisms regarding historic preservation’s role in urban growth. Historic districts in Philadelphia are not simply remnants of the past; they are dynamic neighborhoods that foster community, inclusivity, and economic vitality. As preservationists and city leaders work together to build a sustainable future, the findings endorse a narrative that underscores the value of historic preservation as a means to enrich the urban landscape.

Media News Source.