Explanation of Indicator
Many historic landmarks in Florida are in danger of being lost through demolition because of a lack of funds to assist their restoration or rehabilitation. Such properties include former courthouses, railroad stations, banks, theaters, hotels, office
buildings, residences, and other public and private structures which are
of outstanding historical or architectural significance. Since Florida's coastline has been densely populated longer than any other part of the state, the coastal counties contain many
of the oldest and most historically important structures.
The existence of these irreplaceable local landmarks and their historic values contributes to the quality of life in the communities in which they are located. These places help connect the traditional characteristics reflected in many of Florida's small towns with the modern and fast-paced lifestyle of today. When rehabilitated as community centers, theaters, museums, classrooms, government offices, and other places of public use, these landmarks can directly benefit many people as well as contribute to the revitalization of older downtown areas and neighborhoods. Without assistance, some of the listed historic buildings will further deteriorate and possibly be lost; in addition, many Florida residents and visitors would have less opportunity to learn about Florida's heritage or to develop an understanding of the important events, ethnic diversity, and common experiences which make up the history of our state.
Data Characteristics
SOURCE
All information regarding the Historic Grant Program can be obtained from Mr. Robert Taylor, Florida Department of State, Division of Historical Resources, R. A. Gray Building, 500 South Bronough Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0250, or at
(904) 487-2299.
ACQUISITION
The information on the amount of grant money distributed annually is available by electronic transfer and in hard copy format. No cost is associated with the acquisition of the information.
COLLECTION
All information regarding the state's Historic Grant Program is continuously updated and entered into a comprehensive database.
Data Limitations
State funds are not able to meet all of the demand for historic preservation grant money. In fiscal year 1994-1995, requests totaled nearly $21,000,000 for 81 projects. State funds in the amount of $11,137,939 met about 53% of this request. A further
problem may lie in the distribution of the grants: in order to be awarded any support, local agencies need to take the initiative of identifying qualifying structures and applying for funding. There may exist many projects which would qualify for and
benefit greatly from this source of financial support, but since application for funding is not made, these projects are not included in the selection process.
Data Analysis
The demand for grant assistance reflects an important increase in interest and commitment on the part of local governments, state agencies, and non-profit organizations toward the protection, preservation, and reuse of significant historic structures.
Since the beginning of the program, the amount of money awarded yearly to coastal counties has increased from $323,046 to $10,544,926. The most significant increase in the amount awarded occurred in fiscal year 1987, when the legislature appropriated
special project funds to the grant fund. While the amount of money awarded is a function of the money available, the data also provide an indication of the perceived importance of this program at both the state and local levels.