Preservation and Open Space

Representing some of the oldest residential neighborhoods in the Country and some of the most densely populated areas of the City, it is inevitable that historic preservation and open space are common subjects for negotiation.

The First District boasts the oldest residential street in the United States and contains some of the country’s most important landmarks.  It is important to my constituents and to me that we preserve our history.  Joining with preservationists and community groups, we have led the battle to maintain the Dilworth House, have provided neighborhoods the opportunity to create design guidelines by instituting Neighborhood Conservation Districts, and have lessened the impact of front garages through new residential off-street parking guidelines.

Likewise, it is important to have open space to provide relief from the City’s concrete jungle. I am not only committed to improving already existing open space, I am committed to increasing it.  At the community’s request, I have helped secure land for city-owned parks at 2nd and Dickinson Streets, Front and Reed Streets and 13th and Fitzwater Streets.  Community-owned gardens and parks are found throughout the district and several large development projects have guaranteed open space for the community’s benefit.