Elizabeth Rosin
Observations
As a historian, I believe in looking to lessons from the past in times of uncertainty. Experience shows us that historic buildings can be a catalyst for thriving communities. Kansas City, for instance, would not have the streetcar, the Sprint Center, or the Power & Light District if new apartments in rehabilitated historic buildings had not drawn thousands of residents to our downtown. During the Great Recession, the historic tax credit was a key differentiator between development projects happening and not happening. I anticipate a similar trend emerging in 2020.
Opportunities
Historic projects use more skilled labor than new construction, circulating more of the development budget back into the local community. They are inherently green, using existing buildings and infrastructure in walkable neighborhoods. Their smaller floorplates are attractive to the small businesses that are taking advantage of their dexterity to survive the initial shock waves of 2020. Their unique architecture creates a distinct sense of place.
I would like to nominate “pivot” as the Word of the Year. The concept of changing course to secure economic viability is paramount right now. Limitations always spur creativity, and our current challenges are no exception. If we draw on lessons from the past, we know that the size, density, and durability of historic buildings can be the foundation on which we see healthy communities rise again.
Elizabeth Rosin, Rosin Preservation, LLC