Page 34 - Brookings, SD Historic Preservation Plan
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• Strong and Affordable Neighborhoods (one of the Engagement
Themes)
This theme recognizes that the quality of the neighborhoods in
Brookings is part of what makes the City unique and that makes
it a desirable place to live. “Strong neighborhood design, quality
of life features, and a diversity of housing products” are all part
of what makes strong and affordable neighborhoods, and Brook-
ings’ historic resources contribute to this as well.
• Quality of Life: Community and Neighborhood Character
Historic image of 300 Main Avenue, In the existing conditions for the Quality of Life section of the
now a contributing building to Plan, it is noted that “Brookings’ identity remains strong as
the Commercial Historic District evident from its historic neighborhoods and downtown.” The
(Photograph from Brookings staff) community’s historic resources are a key part of its unique
character.
• Revitalize and Stabilize Older Neighborhoods
In Chapter 4: Housing and Neighborhoods, one of the seven
recommendations for action is to “revitalize and stabilize older
neighborhoods.” This action recognizes that maintaining a stock
of affordable housing is key, and that older neighborhoods often
assist in accomplishing this goal, along with preserving the
“culture, history and identity of the community.” The historic
districts in Brookings are a key part of revitalizing and stabiliz-
ing older neighborhoods, and may provide an opportunity for
affordable housing, while educating residents and visitors about
427 Main Avenue, Nick’s Hamburger the culture, history and identity of the community.
Shop, a contributing historic building
to the Commercial Historic District and Within this particular recommendation are two key objectives.
individually designated to the National The first is to “Establish or continue to fund rehabilitation pro-
Register of Historic Places (W&Co, grams.” This objective focuses on the need for a mix of owner
2020) and renter assistance programs to help with emergency repairs,
rehabilitation loan programs for low income households, and
energy efficiency loans. It recognizes that rental assistance
programs are more challenging but would likely be paired with
code enforcement in order to remain effective. However, by
providing assistance to rental properties, it means that they can
stay competitive with the new construction units, especially
those around the university.
The second key objective within this recommendation is to ex-
pand the demolition program that would likely focus on remov-
ing vacant or abandoned manufactured homes. This objective
does recognize that “special considerations should be rendered
to demolition activities when contemplating historic resources.”
30 Brookings Historic Preservation Plan
