Page 88 - Plano, TX Heritage Preservation Plan

PLACEMAKING &

COMMUNITY DESIGN

Creating memorable and unique public spaces throughout Plano is essential to enhancing community character
and neighborhood identity. Enhancing the design of private properties through the use of design tools is also key to
maintaining historic settings. A variety of tools can be used to do this, such as the adoption of design standards and other
policy tools, and the creation of designated districts that identify a unique area.

Plano also has other important places that, while they may not have an official designation, exhibit a unique character
that is recognized as crucial to the community. Some places may be individual structures, such as the Texas Pool - an
iconic swimming facility in the heart of Plano - while others may be unique neighborhoods. The Douglass Community
is one such neighborhood and is one of Plano’s oldest communities. This neighborhood is defined by strong family ties
and a rich African American culture and is characterized through a recognizable development pattern. Furthermore,
potential historic districts are neighborhoods that are on the cusp of becoming old enough to be considered historic and
that have unique and consistent forms of development that are recognizable.

Finally, the Historic Downtown Plano Arts District contributes to creating a sense of place in the Downtown Heritage
District, as its boundaries overlap with the designated heritage district. This organization focuses on advancing awareness
of Plano’s historic district by supporting events in and around downtown. By operating this district, the Historic Downtown
Plano Association works toward its mission of “preserving Downtown Plano’s historic character and embracing its future.”
The events that the organization supports, as well as the promotion of the downtown’s heritage resources, create a sense
of place and appreciation of Downtown Plano.

Unique neighborhoods and places, historic or not, create memorable spaces throughout Plano that are desirable for
residents to live and work in, and for residents and visitors to attend special events.
that invite a variety of audiences to experience Plano’s culture and community.
Goal: Celebrate the history of Plano through exceptional and innovative attractions

HERITAGE TOURISM

Description
A heritage tourism program provides visitors ways to learn about and interact
with a community’s heritage resources. Many existing organizations, such as
the Historic Downtown Plano Arts District, Plano Conservancy for Historic
Preservation and the Heritage Farmstead, host monthly events that provide
educational information about heritage resources and Plano’s history. Often,
these events are also located in and around heritage resources. For instance,
the Downtown Plano Art & Wine Walk along 15th Street takes place in the
heart of the Downtown District, allowing participants to experience the city’s
historic resources. The Heritage Farmstead Museum, located in the historic
Farrell-Wilson Farmstead, frequently hosts educational events such as Pioneer
Camp for kids and themed educational series for adults focusing on topics such
as hydroponic gardening, historic cooking demonstrations, and blacksmith
demonstrations. Additional events are held at the Saigling House, now
occupied by the ArtCentre, which hosts educational programs, fundraisers, art
Heritage Farmstead Museum Farmfest exhibitions, and special events.
88 Preservation Plano 150 NOVEMBER 2018