Description: Hear from Hanna Stark of the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia about the findings of Growing Through Preservation: The Economic Impact of Historic Preservation in Philadelphia. Philadelphia’s historic buildings are often valued for their aesthetic and cultural significance, but they also play a vital role in the city’s economy, housing market, and environmental sustainability. This presentation will highlight key findings from the report, including the economic activity generated by rehabilitation projects and the role older buildings play in supporting naturally occurring affordable housing. The discussion will also explore how preservation strategies can align with sustainability goals and opportunities for architects and designers to advance innovative approaches to retrofitting and reusing existing buildings.

Speaker Bio: Hanna Stark is the Director of Policy and Communications at the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia, a membership-based nonprofit advocacy organization that shines a spotlight on the places that make the Philadelphia region special and gives a voice and a toolbox to those who care deeply about protecting them for the future. She leads advocacy initiatives related to zoning, historic designation, and preservation incentives, and works closely with community stakeholders, elected officials, and partner organizations to advance preservation-first approaches to sustainable development.

Prior to her current role, she worked for the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Government Relations department. Hanna holds a Master of Science in Historic Preservation from the University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from Clemson University. She also serves on the board of the Preservation Action Foundation.