More communities across Chattanooga are looking toward local historic designations as a way to increase value on property and keep the historical nature of the area intact, officials said.
“Several studies have shown that the importance of historic designations is seen through increased property values within district boundaries,” said Jenny Shugart, the city’s historic preservation planner.
Chattanooga has four local historic districts — St. Elmo, Fort Wood, Battery Place and Ferger Place, Ms. Shugart said. The neighborhoods of Highland Park and Glenwood also are being considered for designation, she said.
With the local historic designation, each community agrees to write a set of guidelines, which sets standards on what type of building and renovation can take place within the community. The idea is to keep the historical integrity of the neighborhoods, she said.
“Guidelines can help address issues common to these old houses and buildings in order to keep the integrity and character of the property,” Ms. Shugart said.