(this is the third in a series of Messages that discusses HRPS's mission. Previous columns addressed our Education activities and Preservation efforts)
These are significant times, from HRPS's viewpoint. In a city that has already lost so many of its landmarks, we find ourselves looking on as forces-- individuals, businesses and government-- consider the fate of some of our remaining iconic structures:
- Is there a way to create a new Virginia Street Bridge that is historically consistent with-- and as aesthetically pleasing as-- our current one?
- What is the effect of the Flood Project on downtown?
- Which older schools in Reno are worth fighting for, in the face of severe district cutbacks and the reduction in funding available for improvements of existing schools?
- Will the Freight House, the supposed centerpiece of the Aces entertainment district, actually be developed?
- How will the multi levels of Reno zoning and planning affect older neighborhoods?
These issues top the list that the Board and I wrestle with-- but the list could go on. Critical issues, critical times.
That is why we want to hear from you, our members. As a board we continue to debate what role we should be taking in the community. We consider whether taking public stands on issues is the direction our organization should be moving in. We ponder whether moving into the political and public arena is our next move. We wonder, "if not HRPS, than who will be the champion for preservation?" Help us answer these important and pressing questions!
To make it easy for you to provide your impressions, we've developed a very short and simple survey. We've been distributing them at our walking tours and they're also available on our website historicreno.org .If you haven't yet completed a survey, I encourage you to do this soon. If you don't have access to the Internet, call our office and we will send you one. Your viewpoint is important to us.
We're nearing the deadline for HRPS's first round of mini-grants from the Neighborhood Preservation Fund. We're excited about the potential of this new initiative, assisting property owners and improving neighborhoods. We'll be announcing the recipients in the next FootPrints.
So now we need your help. Your response to our survey will help us clarify what level of involvement we pursue in advocacy. If you would like to discuss this in more detail, please contact our office and I would welcome your remarks.
Sharon Honig-Bear
President
