Historic preservation is making headlines in Florida. Here’s a roundup of news items to watch, and updates on stories we’ve been following:
Above: Marquee of the Great Southern Music Hall, now known as the Florida Theater
Florida Trust News
- We’re hiring a Program Manager! Read the job description and apply today.
Other News
- On January 28, 2025, a federal spending freeze was announced, which if enacted will impact historic preservation. A memo from the White House’s Office of Management and Budget ordered a temporary halt to all federal financial assistance. While there is currently a lack of clarity around this, our partners in preservation from around the country are already reporting impacts, such as deep confusion around future funding and no longer having access to grant payment portals. The White House has indicated that while the memo may not be in effect, the programs listed will still be reviewed for future funding. Here is a complete list of the programs that could be impacted. If you scroll to the Department of the Interior, you will see the Historic Preservation Fund (which provides funding for the Florida Division of Historical Resources) and Historic Preservation Fund Grants are included. Have you seen impacts that you would like to share? Let us know!
- The City of St. Petersburg received a $75,000 grant from the National Park Service for the Deuces Neighborhood Survey and National Register Nomination.
- Gainesville’s City Plan Board recommended listing the Florida Theater on the local register of historic places.
- Are you familiar with Googie and the fight to preserve it? (Hint: think neon signs and midcentury roadside buildings).
- Past 11 to Save site the Blanchard House continues to partner with community organizations to provide valuable programming.
- Past President of the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation Clay Henderson shared a personal story reflecting on the passing of President Jimmy Carter.
- Grant applications for Conserving Black Modernism are due by March 14, 2025.
Do you have preservation news to share? Let us know!