Kansas City Prioritizes Historic Preservation to Sustain Community Stories and Heritage

Historic Preservation: Kansas City’s Commitment to Keeping the Past Alive

In the heart of Kansas City, the stories of buildings and neighborhoods are woven into the fabric of the community. As urban landscapes continue to evolve, the importance of historic preservation has never been greater. Elizabeth Rosin, a dedicated advocate for preserving the character of Kansas City’s historic sites, recently shared her insights into the significance of this work and the vital incentives that support it.

A Journey into Historic Preservation

Rosin’s journey into historic preservation is as captivating as the buildings she helps save. Originally dreaming of becoming an archaeologist, she pursued her studies with enthusiasm. However, as she transitioned from archaeology to the world of buildings, Rosin found her true calling. “I’m a storyteller. That’s what I do,” she smiles, explaining how she can narrate the tales of historic structures rather than merely speculating about the past, as often occurs in archaeology.

In 2006, she founded Rosin Preservation LLC, a firm dedicated to guiding property owners through the maze of applications for historic tax credits while offering rehabilitation strategies. Her team has successfully completed hundreds of historic preservation projects, such as the well-known conversion of the Mark Twain Tower in Downtown and the transformation of the old Westport High School.

Current Developments in Preservation

As Kansas City continues to grow and thrive, several areas are seeing a notable uptick in historic preservation efforts. While Downtown has attracted much attention, other neighborhoods, like River Market and the Crossroads, are also undergoing rejuvenation. “Now we are waiting for West Bottoms to start exploding,” Rosin notes with optimism.

One area in particular that has recently garnered excitement is 18th & Vine. “Since I first started consulting in the late ’90s, we were looking at how to revive this historical district,” Rosin recalls. She reflects on the challenges that have been faced, noting how the site has finally begun to gain the traction needed for revitalization with multiple projects on the drawing board, including expansions for museums and commercial spaces.

The Importance of Integrity

Rosin emphasizes a key aspect of her work: ensuring that preservation respects the original design and integrity of historic buildings. “We look for how much of its original design is still intact,” she states. It’s not simply about age; buildings need to share a story and hold significance to be considered worthy of preservation.

Many property owners approach Rosin with buildings that are over fifty years old but lack a unique “hook.” For instance, while buildings from the late ‘60s and early ’70s may feature interesting geometries, altering their character can jeopardize their historic status. “It’s all about maintaining the essence,” she explains, underscoring the balance between modern development and historical value.

Tax Credits and Development Incentives

A critical component of successful preservation projects is the financial incentives provided by state and federal historic tax credits. Rosin highlights that Missouri has a strong state historic tax credit system that pairs well with federal options, boosting the appeal of rehabilitating historic structures. Recently passed legislation has enhanced these credits, increasing potential benefits significantly, especially outside urban centers like Kansas City and St. Louis.

As construction costs rise and interest rates fluctuate, the math behind developing historic properties must still work out in favor of property owners. “If the numbers don’t work, nobody is going to rehab a historic building,” Rosin points out. The combination of increased historic tax credits and a focused commitment to preservation means Kansas City is not only maintaining its architectural legacy but also nurturing its vibrant culture.

Looking Ahead

With a new wave of investment and energy centered around historic preservation, Kansas City stands poised to continue telling its rich story through its buildings. Experts like Rosin play an essential role in this process, helping to bridge the gap between the past and the future. As exciting developments unfold, both the community and its historic structures can thrive together.

In sum, Kansas City’s dedication to preserving its historic buildings is not just about architecture; it’s about honouring the stories that shape the community. Thanks to the efforts of passionate individuals like Elizabeth Rosin, the city’s history remains vibrant and alive.