Adaptive Reuse

Respectful adaptive reuse of historic properties should be a high priority for redevelopment of historic structures, especially in historically significant areas of the community, such as downtown, or industrial areas. Efforts to preserve and revitalize historic buildings can be challenging because of modern code requirements as well as structural problems resulting from past uses, potential contamination or poor maintenance.

Beyond the successful brownfields remediation program, Keene needs to ensure that developers are able to access a mix of financing options while meeting the community’s goals for green building, adaptive reuse, historic preservation and safety. Development incentives should also be considered that support reuse and preservation of buildings. Working with economic development organizations, a specific strategy should be created to redevelop existing buildings in a manner that meets the community’s needs for affordable housing, high-quality/high-skill jobs, mixed-use development and creative-arts spaces.