Historic registers and neighborhood change: do historic registers promote gentrification?

Abstract

This paper examines the link between historic designation and neighborhood change using data from Denver and Fort Collins, Colorado and a Simultaneous Equation Model (SEM) framework. Contrary to previous studies in Texas, the Colorado cities display a statistically significant link between historic registers and neighborhood demographics. Therefore, historic designations may have a role in tipping models of neighborhood transition. The importance of legal context and initial economic conditions are emphasized.