NextGen Preservation Collab

We're a growing community of people who care about Louisville's historic places, from building owners to passionate advocates. We believe in honoring the past while shaping a more inclusive, healthy, and vibrant future.

We aim to bring fresh energy to preservation by connecting it to walkability, public health, and inclusive development to foster stronger, healthier communities.

What We Believe

• Preservation is a form of respect – for people, stories, and craftsmanship
• Old buildings possess untapped potential and that needs to be realized, not erased
• A city's identity is rooted in its history
• Anyone who loves their city can be a preservationist – no credentials required
• Progress and preservation must go hand in hand
• Saving places builds community, connection, and pride in place

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What Risk We Face

Without a new generation of advocates, we risk losing the walkability, character, and history that define Louisville. Opportunities are slipping away – and without action, the future will have little left to preserve.

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Goals

• Build a welcoming, low-barrier preservation community
• Inspire energy and excitement around saving what matters
• Spotlight urgent needs – like restoring Louisville's shotgun houses
• Foster a culture of preservation through stories, places, and connection
• Spark collaboration across fields to bring fresh ideas into the movement
• Grow demand for preservation-focused projects and funding
• Capture past lessons to inform future efforts
• Champion urban design that harnesses preservation to create a more walkable city