Historic Preservation

Our past and future are integrally linked and we have a duty to make sure that we preserve historic places for generations to come. Vacant and underutilized historic structures and collections are in need of rehabilitation and can serve as catalysts for attracting new investment in growing communities. Whether it is preserving main streets of forgotten downtowns, or re-using historic properties as affordable housing, preservation makes history come alive in communities around our country.

That is one of the many reasons I started the Congressional Historic Preservation Caucus with Rep. Mike Turner of Ohio. We have created a successful bipartisan caucus with nearly 120 members. The caucus serves as a forum for Members to discuss ways to protect and revitalize America’s historic places and structures. Most importantly, the Caucus focuses on historic preservation’s important role in economic development and neighborhood revitalization.

America’s historic places define our national character and deserve our care and stewardship. I recently introduced the “Preserve America and Save America’s Treasures Act,” which will authorize two programs critical to the future of historic preservation. Save America’s Treasures provides “bricks and mortar” funding for the rehabilitation of historic buildings and collections. Preserve America supports communities in their efforts to preserve cultural and natural heritage by providing for heritage tourism and preservation planning. Each program fulfills a unique purpose and together, they provide a comprehensive approach to historic preservation and community revitalization.