Burlington's rich heritage is illustrated in the
many archeological, historic and architecturally significant places found
throughout the city. Included are structures, districts, corridors,
landscapes, sites, and many other unique cultural environments, which add
greatly to the city's character, economy, and sense of place and time.
Burlington has a tradition of protecting and celebrating historic
and architecturally significant places. This tradition is illustrated
through a long-standing commitment to conserve and protect elements of the
City's heritage through planning, public and private
re-investment, and public outreach.
Burlington's heritage and architecture is part of what sets the community
apart from "just another place," and creates an authentic experience of
place. Burlington's efforts at advancing historic preservation in our
community serves as important land use, housing, and economic development
strategies that benefit both current future generations.
What is Historic Preservation?
The National
Trust for Historic Preservation's former President Richard Moe said,
"Preservation is in the business of saving irreplaceable places and
the quality of life they support."
Historic
preservation uses the protection of historic buildings, districts,
landscapes, and other resources as a means of preserving a community's
character and enhancing quality of life. Through tax incentives, grants,
technical assistance, research, planning, design review, and advocacy,
historic preservation helps us to maintain what is unique about our
community, and keep us from becoming "Anywhere, USA."
Burlington has made a strong commitment to preserving our quality of life
and the unique character of our city. An overview of this commitment can
be found in the City Municipal Development Plan's chapter on Historic
Preservation.
For more information on historic preservation,
and organizations that are involved in preserving our city and region's
"irreplaceable places," go to the Historic
Links page.