THEME: PRESERVING FRANKLIN’S HISTORIC RESOURCES Franklin’s historic fabric is both a cornerstone of community identity, and a major influence on economic vitality, attracting residents, visitors, and reinvestment. In many ways, Franklin’s historic character is its identity. As a result of saving so much of its history, the city has attracted an influx of population and real estate investment, intensifying development pressures in recent years. Among the most important functions of this Plan is to identify tools and policies that can help Franklin navigate the pressures associated with growth while sustaining the character that defines it. As Franklin’s preservation work advances, one of the issues to be addressed includes updating the documentation of existing resources through survey and inventory initiatives. Survey and inventory data should include baseline documentation (i.e., historical data, architectural descriptions, significance rating, condition, photographs, GIS mapping) as well as preliminary recommendations on the potential eligibility of identified resources for listing in the National Register of Historic Places or as part of the HPO. SUMMARY OF CHALLENGES Many historic resources remain undocumented or unprotected, making them especially vulnerable as development pressures and population growth accelerate. Early and mid 20th century neighborhoods and several National Register properties lack HPO protection, leaving them susceptible to demolition, incompatible infill, and market driven redevelopment. Rising land values, limited preservation tools, and cases of demolition by neglect create additional risk for vulnerable communities and historic properties outside the HPO. Pressures for infill development surrounding historic estates are rising, jeopardizing their historic integrity. 1 2 3 4 105
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NTY1Mzc2