2013 Theses Master's

Measuring the Full Economic Impacts of Local Historic District Designations

Pierce O'Brien, Dianne

This thesis identifies the quantitative and qualitative indicators that could be used to comprehensively measure the economic impacts of any local historic district designation. This thesis then focuses on two qualitative indicators that have not been adequately studied, community cohesion and the attraction of residents and businesses, and develops data sources and metrics to measure these indicators in order to contribute to a more comprehensive toolbox of evaluation. Ultimately, these tools will help shape preservation planning policies; specifically, what factors need to be taken into consideration when designating a local historic district and how to evaluate the economic impacts of local historic district designations over time. The findings in this thesis will assist planners and preservation advocates in discussions with opposition groups, establishing a frame for debates that encompasses all of the values of local historic district designations, including social indicators, in contrast to a pure economic model which has been predominately used in past discussions, and does not fully capture all of the social benefits of local designations.