A preservation plan for the Warren Commercial Historic District

Abstract

This thesis is an exploration of the role historic preservation has played in the city of Warren, Ohio, a city that has experienced severe economic loss and population decline. Warren's economy has been completely dependent upon the steel and auto industries. Subsequently, the city's downtown historic district has suffered in numerous ways. This thesis examines to what degree preservation has been considered thus far in the city's revitalization efforts, as well as the potential value and unrealized benefits preservation may have as a tool in achieving revitalization and what specific steps are needed to achieve successful preservation efforts in this climate. Lastly, the thesis seeks to identify some of the broader implications for preservation work being done in other similar neighborhoods and/or cities struggling with economic hardship and the subsequent erosion of the downtown and historic areas.