Powell Historic Survey

Powell, Ohio

WHY

Powell has a deep appreciation for its history and is proactive in making improvements and advancements in its historic preservation efforts. The City took the initiative to update its Zoning Code, and with that, look into any relevant historic preservation policy or relevant efforts listed in the code. The City anticipates that a historic survey will inform and enhance its preservation policies and initiatives. The primary goal of this survey was to determine if the project area could be designated as a historic district. Another goal was to create practical policy recommendations for the City.

HOW

Designing Local evaluated 80 properties within the Historic Downtown Powell area to determine eligibility for designation as a historic district. ​The survey, completed in January 2025, documented properties built before 1975, focusing on their historical significance, architectural styles, and integrity. ​

WHAT

The survey identified a mix of residential, commercial, and institutional buildings, with most structures being vernacular in style and dating from 1859 to 1973. ​ Recommendations include creating a local historic district, writing a preservation ordinance, establishing a local historic register, and becoming a Certified Local Government to access funding opportunities like tax credits and grants. ​The survey emphasized the importance of community engagement and education in advancing historic preservation goals while proposing boundaries for a new historic district to protect Powell’s cultural heritage.