Discussion Question 8

Challenges in Rebuilding and Reconstruction

A small community is devastated by a flood, and the historic Main Street of the community suffers severe damages. The community has been experiencing economic hardship for the last decade and many argue that this disaster represents an opportunity to gentrify Main Street with parks, walkways, and bike paths. This reconstruction also offers an opportunity to improve the community’s economy with new buildings and businesses. However, there is a good deal of opposition to this plan because of the historical nature of Main Street. Opponents argue that the installation of walkways, bike paths, parks, and new buildings is incompatible with the historical nature of Main Street. The extent to which emergency managers and city officials decide to rebuild or reconstruct will vary depending on individual community needs.

For this Discussion, review the Learning Resources for this week. Reflect on why historical properties and landscapes are important to people and communities. Consider the implications related to rebuilding and reconstructing after a disaster event specifically as it applies to historic structures.

Post a brief explanation of two or three challenges that officials might face in deciding whether to rebuild or reconstruct historic and cultural structures after an emergency event.

Be sure to use the Learning Resources and current literature to support your response.

Phillips, B. D. (2015). Disaster recovery (2nd ed.). Boca Raton, FL: Taylor & Francis Group.

• Chapter 4, “Debris Management” (pp. 91-128)
• Chapter 6, “Historic and Cultural Resources” (pp. 163-194)