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Policy And A Pint: City Planning and Historical Sites

Washington Plaza is located in the Filhiol district of downtown Monroe
archplus.com
Washington Plaza is located in the Filhiol district of downtown Monroe
Washington Plaza is located in the Filhiol district of downtown Monroe
Credit archplus.com
Washington Plaza is located in the Filhiol district of downtown Monroe

Many cities and towns want to maintain their historical character.  As communities grow, that ideal can be challenged.

In recent years, the city of Monroe has seen a push to re-energize its downtown district.  Like other municipalities, city officials seek to establish and blend historic sites with newer developments.  

"It's important to preserve that built-in environment," says Monroe Planning and Zoning Director JoannePoret, a panelist inKEDM'sPolicy and a Pint on historic preservation on July 28.  "It not only keepsaesthetic appeal, but provides character."

Poret says her office works closely with the the Heritage Preservation Commission in reviewing potential projects to the exterior of historic properties.  She says the group looks foremost at maintaining the character or a building or a house.

There are three districts centrally-located in Monroe.  Poret says those areas are routinely evaluated to see what  opportunities may exist to blend historic sites with more modern buildings in the future.  

Copyright 2021 KEDM Public Radio. To see more, visit KEDM Public Radio.

After working in Baton Rouge radio for six years, Bob returned to Monroe in 1996. He served as program director for a local commercial radio station immediately prior to joining KEDM in 2009, as News and Public Affairs Director. A graduate of the University of Louisiana at Monroe, he holds a degree in Radio/TV/Film Management.

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