Effects of Historic Preservation Policy on Urban Neighborhood Stabilization

Effects of Historic Preservation Policy on Urban Neighborhood Stabilization by Lisa Vaughan Jordan MA, Virginia Commonwealth University, 2010 BA, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1995 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Public Policy and Administration Walden University August 2018 Abstract Since the 1960s, urban neighborhoods in the United States have been affected by historic designation and local historic preservation policy raising concerns about social inequity in housing and services, environmental resources, and economic challenges. Although there is consensus that the role of public policy in historic preservation decision-making is related to neighborhood stabilization, little is known about the extent of the impact.Since the 1960s, urban neighborhoods in the United States have been affected by historic designation and local historic preservation policy raising concerns about social inequity in housing and services, environmental resources, and economic challenges. Although there is consensus that the role of public policy in historic preservation decision-making is related to neighborhood stabilization, little is known about the extent of the impact. Using Ostrom’s social-ecological systems theory as a guide, the purpose of this single case study of a historical district in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic region was to investigate the impact of implementation of local historic preservation policies and programs related to social and economic change. Data were collected from 11 interviews with residents and government officials and publicly available documents provided by the local government agency. These data were inductively coded and then subjected to thematic analysis. Findings indicate that areas of deficiency in historic preservation policy in the urban neighborhood affect social-economic systems due to the complex and integrated way that the components often work asynchronously. Collaboration between multiple types and levels of entities can offset the negatives and bolster the more positive aspects of historic preservation. The study includes recommendations to local government policy makers and organizations that emphasize the importance of integrated planning and development and the revision of current policy to reflect constituent needs. Maximizing the efficiency and operation of historic preservation policy may engender positive social change by optimizing economic impacts and lessoning social disparities and environmental concerns, which may improve citizens’ quality of life and affected areas’ fiscal health. Effects of Historic Preservation Policy on Urban Neighborhood Stabilization by Lisa Vaughan Jordan MA, Virginia Commonwealth University, 2010 BS, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1995 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Public Policy and Administration Walden University August 2018 Dedication I would like to dedicate this dissertation to Bill Jordan, my husband, for remaining steadfast in his support of this pursuit and of me during this journey. He has not wavered in his patience. This study is also dedicated to my son, Jared Dylan Jordan, who has inspired me from the day of his birth. There are two other men who had a profound effect on my character and drive. Though they are no longer here physically, they remained integral in this process. At times, it almost feels as though they are looking over my shoulder providing encouragement and advice when most needed. Therefore, this study is also dedicated to Professor James Moore, my first collegiate history instructor, who pushed me to continue my education years afterward. It is also dedicated to my father, Ammon Cliborne Vaughan, who was my rock for many years and ardently persuaded me to fulfill my