Advocacy is both an area of concentration and a component of all of the Alliance’s work.

Advocacy programs and services include the following:

  • Review and comment on proposals for alteration or demolition of historic properties in Philadelphia through regular monitoring of the Philadelphia Historical Commission.
  • Appeals, when appropriate, of decisions by the Philadelphia Historical Commission or other public agencies, and support of appeals filed by community organizations in Philadelphia and adjacent counties.
  • Participation in “Section 106” reviews of federally-funded projects to ensure the protection of historic resources.
  • Advocacy on such public policy issues as creation of new state tax incentives for historic preservation, creation of conservation districts in Philadelphia, and review of proposed changes to the City’s Historic Preservation Ordinance.
  • Creation of on-line petitions and letter writing or email campaigns on critical local and state preservation issues.
  • Advice to private developers, community organizations, and individuals on the laws and procedures of historic preservation including designation of historic properties, creation of historic districts, financial resources for preservation projects, and procedures for alterations or demolition of historic properties.
  • Nominations of historic properties to the Philadelphia and National Registers of Historic Places.

Support our Advocacy efforts by donating to the Advocacy & Legal Defense Fund.

In The News

February Advocacy Update: Protecting Dr. King’s Legacy – The Fight to Save Old Main

The Preservation Alliance is proud to collaborate with the Friends of Old Main and MLK Committee to advocate for this significant site’s preservation and interpretation. By restoring Old Main, we not only pay tribute to Dr. King’s formative years but also provide a space for education, reflection, and community engagement.

We encourage you to read the full letter and join us in supporting this vital cause. Together, we can ensure that Old Main stands as a lasting testament to Dr. King’s profound impact and the rich history of our region.

RFP Open for Chester Courthouse Rehabilitation

Preserve Joe Frazier’s Gym

Philadelphia Historical Commission Update

Advocating for the Federal Historic Tax Credit

Read Full Advocacy Update

Our Response to Macy’s Closure at the Historic Wanamaker Building

The Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia acknowledges the closure of Macy’s department store at the historic Wanamaker Building with a deep sense of loss. This marks the end of an era for a historic site that has been a cornerstone of Center City’s identity for generations. Despite this moment of change, we are confident in the Wanamaker Building’s future as a cherished landmark. The Grand Court, its crown jewel, is fully protected from demolition and inappropriate alteration by its 2017 designation on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places.

Read Full Statement

February To-Do List

Explore preservation events around Philadelphia with our monthly To-Do List!

To-Do List

2023 Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia. All Rights Reserved.    |   Terms and Privacy Policy