Examples of Cities Protecting History and Promoting Progress
- Charleston, South Carolina
- Famous for its strict preservation rules that maintain historic architecture.
- Has also allowed carefully scaled new development that blends with its historic character, boosting tourism and livability.
- Savannah, Georgia
- Preserved its 18th- and 19th-century squares and historic homes while encouraging adaptive reuse projects.
- Attracted investment in housing, retail, and hospitality without losing its historic charm.
- Alexandria, Virginia (Old Town)
- Maintains a vibrant historic district along the waterfront.
- New development projects must adhere to design standards that respect the historic streetscape.
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Protected historic neighborhoods like Beacon Hill and the North End.
- At the same time, developed the Seaport District into a modern hub of business, housing, and innovation.
- San Antonio, Texas
- Preserved the historic River Walk and Spanish missions.
- Attracted major investment in hospitality, entertainment, and residential growth tied to that preservation.
- Santa Fe, New Mexico
- Enforced adobe-style architectural guidelines citywide, protecting its unique historic identity.
- Still fosters cultural, economic, and tourism growth.
- Portland, Oregon (Pearl District)
- Now one of the most thriving urban neighborhoods in the U.S.
- Converted old warehouses and rail yards into mixed-use spaces while preserving industrial character.
