I read it today . . . Part II

Also in today's AIArchitect, the weekly newsletter of the AIA, I read a story about the National Trust for Historic Preservation announcing their Dozen Distinctive Destinations on February 7th. I wasn't familiar with the program so I went to the National Trust's website to find out more about the program and who might be on this year's list and on previous lists.

"Each year since 2000, the National Trust for Historic Preservation has selected 12 vacation destinations across the United States that offer an authentic visitor experience by combining dynamic downtowns, cultural diversity, attractive architecture, cultural landscapes and a strong commitment to historic preservation and revitalization."

"The destinations selected in 2008 range from a French colonial village along the banks of the Mississippi River that captures the pioneer spirit of the early settlers, to a small Texas town that serves as a gateway to the unspoiled terrain of the 19th century western frontier, to a gorgeous Southern city with roots three centuries deep, and a coastal town renowned for its seafood and historic buildings."

Immediately I thought Cincinnati had to be on the list. But it was not one of the twelve selected this year. (Check the above link to see those cities and towns selected.) So then I checked the "108 Distinctive Destinations located in 42 states throughout the country" that have been listed since 2000. Nope, not listed there either. I checked for those listed in Ohio and there were two:

Milan, OH
Oberlin, OH

The website states about communities on the list:
"In each community, residents have taken forceful action to protect their town’s character and sense of place. Whether by enacting a local preservation law to protect historic buildings against demolition, rewriting zoning codes to prevent commercial sprawl, removing regulatory barriers to downtown housing, making downtown areas more walkable, enacting design standards, or taking some other major step that demonstrates a strong commitment to their town, residents have worked hard to preserve the historic and scenic assets of their communities, with rewards that transcend town limits."

Well, I for one think Cincinnati could and should be on the list. What do we need to do to make it so?