Dynamic Downtowns: Using Heritage to Build Strong, Vibrant Downtowns

Dynamic Downtowns Workbook is a resource for communities that want to know more about how to include heritage buildings as part of their downtown revitalization strategy.

The five case studies represent examples of how some BC communities are incorporating heritage buildings into their downtown revitalization. The “Tools in the Toolkit” and “Checklist for Communities” sections bring together an approach for incorporating heritage buildings into a bigger strategy.

Reuse of heritage buildings alone will generally not be enough to revitalize a downtown. There needs to be activity in the downtown, an interesting mix of retail and easy access to parking and sidewalks. However, old buildings that are no longer vacant but have an active commercial life are an important part of a vibrant downtown.