Historic Preservation

Overview

Historic Preservation is a special focus within urban design and planning that provides an understanding of and respect for a community's past, especially when decisions are being made about its future. Through programs of research, evaluation, designation of significant places, and education, historic preservation seeks to enhance a community's sense of place and distinct identity, for the benefit of residents and visitors.

Communities are dynamic, constantly responding to new technologies in transportation, production, and communication; climatic, economic, and demographic shifts; lifestyle changes and changes wrought by fires, floods, and storms. Historic preservation programs seek to identify and preserve significant historic places - from individual buildings to whole neighborhoods. Prudent communities make efficient use of past investments, both public and private, and build on their strengths. Healthy communities understand and learn from past mistakes.

Lincoln's historic preservation program is housed in the Planning Department and guided by an appointed, volunteer Historic Preservation Commission. The Commission reviews proposed changes to designated landmarks and works with owners to maintain and preserve significant historic places.

Our community is a "Certified Local Government" for matters of historic preservation, cooperating with the Nebraska State Historical Society and State Historic Preservation Officer (the CEO of the Historical Society), and with the National Park Service of the U.S. Department of the Interior. We assist property owners and neighborhoods desiring historic recognition such as listing on the National Register of Historic Places and designation as City of Lincoln Landmarks and Landmark Districts (under the Zoning Code). We provide information and assistance regarding federal and state tax incentive programs for historic rehabilitation. Ongoing historical research is shared with the community through our web site, print publications, tours, television programs, and frequent community presentations.