Are you concerned about teardowns of historic buildings in Downers Grove?

With the recent destruction of the Edwards House, built in 1898, along with a 250 year-old burr oak tree at 942 Maple, it has come to light that Downers Grove currently does not provide any deterrents to stop the demolition of historic buildings or trees and does not offer any benefits to historic property owners. Join us in working together to create a plan that benefits both the community and historic property owners.

How does Downers Grove benefit from Historical Preservation?

Preserving historic buildings is an essential means by which a community can achieve broader economic, social, and environmental goals, the three pillars of sustainability.

Economics of Revitalization

Preservation creates jobs, stimulates investments, and revitalizes communities. Learn more about the role of federal and state historic tax credits in the creation of jobs and how heritage tourism and the establishment of historic districts support the economic strength of a community.

Social Cohesion

Historic preservation plays a crucial role in creating socially connected, and thriving communities. In general, historic preservation projects involve a large number of community stakeholders, resulting in civic engagement and social interaction of all residents resulting in social equity.

Greener Planet

In January 2012 the Preservation Green Lab, a project of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, released The Greenest Building: Quantifying the Environmental Value of Building Reuse, which found that in almost every case, the reuse of existing buildings results in fewer environmental impacts over their life spans compared to demolition and new construction.

Source: preservationnation.org

How do historic property owners benefit?

Buildings listed with the National Register of Historic Place (federal) are eligible for financial incentives such as a property tax freeze, grants and tax credits. Source: illinois.gov/ihpa

Landmarks and Landmark District Designation (local)Properties are designated by local municipal ordinance and is the best tool available to protect local resources and the historic character of a community.

What can be done to protect historical buildings and trees?

  • review current zoning, align to Comprehensive Plan
  • remove COA for minor exterior modifications currently required by landmarked buildings
  • simplify process to landmark buildings
  • provide grants for renovation of landmarked buildings
  • % of property tax deferment for landmarked buildings
  • tree impact fee for new developments
  • developer contributions for loss of historical assets
  • demolition permit review for 50+ year old buildings
  • delay demolition of historic buildings for 24 months to explore alternatives to demolition or relocation
  • annual celebration, recognition awards, house tours
  • …and more, we need your ideas!

Join us in working together to create a plan that benefits both the community and historic property owners.

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