Heritage Preservation

Heritage Preservation is the protection of historic resources that reflect the community’s cultural, architectural, social, and historical identity. It supports preservation while allowing thoughtful reuse and adaptation.

Preserving historic places strengthens community identity, supports education about the past, and enhances civic pride. It also helps maintain the unique character of La Crosse for residents and visitors.

Preservation provides valuable insight into the community’s history and supports economic development through adaptive reuse. Reusing historic buildings—such as converting factories into housing or commercial spaces—often costs less than demolition and new construction while preserving materials and craftsmanship.

Not all old buildings should be preserved. Preservation focuses on resources that reflect La Crosse’s cultural, architectural, social, economic, or historical significance.

Designation provides recognition and protection for historic properties and districts. It does not freeze properties in time but ensures changes are reviewed to maintain historic character while allowing continued use.

Does designation freeze a building?

No. Designation does not freeze a building in time. It allows properties to remain in use and be updated, while ensuring that changes are reviewed to protect the historic character of the property or district.

Do all old buildings qualify?

No. Age alone does not determine eligibility. Properties must have historical, architectural, cultural, or social significance to the community to be considered for designation.

What is adaptive reuse?

Adaptive reuse is the process of repurposing an existing historic building for a new use, while preserving its important historic features and character. Examples include converting schools into housing or factories into offices or community spaces.