What originated as an effort to stop the demolition of iconic landmarks has progressed into a movement focused on livability, sustainability, job creation, revitalization, and change. Preservation today promotes growth and evolution of the city based on thoughtful decision-making. Below are resources designed to inform, guide, and enhance that process.
Resources and Information
Piano Row: Cycles of History
Piano Row: Cycles of History is an original film documentary about the evolution of Boston’s Piano Row Historic District.
Historic Ladder Blocks—An Endangered Resource in Downtown Boston
With no local protection or means of preventing demolition, the Ladder Blocks are at great risk of permanent loss of character.
Boston Modern: The Spirit of Reinvention
Boston Modern: The Spirit of Reinvention events and booklet are part of the Modern Module program, a two-year endeavor in four cities, aimed at bui
Boston's Changing Neighborhoods
On February 4, 2016 the Boston Preservation Alliance hosted an Urban Forum: “Boston’s Changing Neighborhoods: How You Can Impact Your Communit
Easements as a Tool for Preservation
Here in Boston there are a few ways we can protect a building or other historic resource.
City of Boston Archives
The City Archives houses and manages historic City records and documents that are no longer in active use, including photographs, plans, deeds, maps and other documents. You’d be surprised…
Neighborhood Preservation Workshops
The Boston Preservation Alliance’s Neighborhood Preservation Workshop was a pilot program that ran from 2009 to 2012.
Inspectional Services Department (ISD)
The ISD enforces building and housing regulations. Permits applications for building, modifying, or demolishing a building are submitted to this department. Vacant and foreclosed properties…
Boston Planning and Development Agency (BPDA)
The BPDA is Boston’s planning and economic development agency. They work with other City departments and organizations on a wide range of planning and development initiatives.…
Boston Landmarks Commission (BLC)
The Boston Landmarks Commission, along with the volunteer local Historic District Commissions, serve as the City’s steward of Boston’s historic buildings, places, and neighborhoods. The BLC…