ReUrbanism: Learning from the Past to Create More Sustainable Cities of the Future. By Jim Lindberg, National Trust for Historic Preservation, senior director of Preservation Green Lab In Colorado and across the country, older and historic neighborhoods are coming alive as places to live, work, and visit. Adaptive use of existing buildings, from ornate mansions to simple warehouses, is an increasingly common practice. Environmental advocates, developers, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders alike are seeing the benefits of reinvesting in older buildings and blocks to create healthier, more resilient communities. At the same time, many communities are grappling with challenges that are impacting downtowns and older neighborhoods. How can more affordable housing be provided? What can be done to retain and support local small businesses? How can growth and greater density be achieved without sacrificing architectural character and diversity? With these challenges and opportunities in mind, the National Trust for Historic Preservation (NTHP) recently
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launched a new initiative called ReUrbanism (savingplaces.org/reurbanism#.WLndSBiZP1J). Inspired by the examples of historic urban development, ReUrbanism seeks to position historic preservation as an essential contributor to the sustainable communities of the future. The ReUrbanism initiative includes research, development of new policies and incentives, on-theground demonstration projects, and communication and outreach to advocates and civic leaders. To guide this work, the National Trust has identified 10 Principles of ReUrbanism: 1. Cities and towns are successful only when they work for everyone. People are at the center of our work. Preservation projects can create opportunities for community residents at all income levels to live, work, and play in a diverse and thriving environment. 2. Older places provide the distinctiveness and character that engender success. Older buildings give municipalities a sense of identity, history, and authenticity — which is the most important competitive advantage they can have in today’s economy.
SOUTH DAKOTA MUNICIPALITIES
