MANSFIELD HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN

Mansfield, Ohio

WHY

Mansfield has a long history of historic preservation activities. There have been some notable successes, including the preservation of the Ohio State Reformatory, the designation of both local and National Register historic districts and landmarks, and the work of Downtown Mansfield, Inc., and the Historic Preservation Commission of Mansfield. There have been significant challenges as well, including the loss of historic manufacturing facilities and residential structures. Given this, and that the original historic preservation plan was nearly 30 years old, it was an ideal time to evaluate past successes, identify current and future challenges, and develop a plan to move the city forward.

HOW

The Mansfield Historic Preservation Plan update began in January 2015, and was finalized in September 2015. With strategic public involvement, including a pop-up meeting in an abandoned Eagles building and a social media campaign called ‘This Place Matters’, the plan generated significant excitement in the community.

WHAT

The updated plan highlights incentives currently in use, as well as those that have proven successful in other communities, including land banks, revolving loan funds, and grants. The plan broadens the focus of what might be eligible for the National Register, local listings, and long-term preservation.

SERVICES

Historic Preservation
Urban Planning