Introduction
This report makes the case that historic preservation is an important economic development tool that has provided significant benefits to Coloradans of all walks of life for many years. These benefits are the result of hard work and many collaborative efforts between local, state, and federal agencies, numerous non-profit groups, and countless individuals.
How can one capitalize on the wealth of ideas and information provided in this report? How can past results be translated into future action? For communities and non-profit groups, what are the first steps in developing a feasible preservation project, or improving an already-established program? For developers and individual property owners, what are effective ways to initiate a financially feasible preservation project that brings new life to a historic site while preserving the tangible and intangible qualities that make historic places so appealing?
The answers, of course, vary widely depending on your goals and objectives, the tools already in place, specific property issues, and available resources. Coloradans have referenced several different models to initiate successful preservation efforts, and many projects rely on the type of effective partnerships and innovation illustrated throughout this report. Strong preservation work is happening every day in our state, across entire communities, in individual neighborhoods, and at specific historic places.
Whether you’re a burgeoning preservationist with a potential project in mind, or looking to fine-tune an existing plan, this chapter lays out a simple framework for moving ahead. Key steps discussed in this chapter include establishing goals and objectives; assessing existing programs and resources; choosing appropriate tools and strategies; crafting an effective implementation program; and tracking progress and measuring success.
In addition, the chapter includes a reference list of currently available programs, organizations, and other resources for Colorado communities and preservationists looking to initiate, refine, or expand a historic preservation program or project.