Series 4: Swarthmore Historic Preservation

In January 2002 a Historic Resources Committee was created by the Borough of Swarthmore Council as a subcommittee of the Planning Committee and included representatives from the Swarthmore Historical Society. This group worked to develop a purpose statement, goals, and strategies which were submitted to Planning. Planning forwarded a draft preservation plan to Council at the end of 2003.

The preservation planning succeeded the publication of the Swarthmore Historic Resources Survey in 2001 and the creation of a Town Center Task Force in 1998.

The Subcommittee proceeded with public education projects including a grant for a Historic Walking Tour (under the auspices of the Swarthmore Historical Society). The sale of Michaels in 2004 renewed concern about preservation since it became obvious that the Borough had no historic preservation protection. Council laid down the Subcommittee in 2004 and appointed a Historic Preservation Task Force in January 2005 "to develop a plan to preserve the historical, cultural, architectural and archaeological resources, and to encourage compatible development and design to maintain the unique character of Swarthmore." In January 2006, the Task Force presented to Council its recommendations. The Task Force recommended that the Borough begin by implementing a strategy for historic preservation based on recognition. Council enthusiastically supported the Task Force proposal to proceed with the preparation of an application to designate the Borough of Swarthmore as a National Historic District. Council also approved the creation of an Historic Architecture Advisory Committee.

Later that year, the Task Force was asked to review a draft demolition ordinance. In September 2006, it presented to Council its recommendations supporting a demolition ordinance since all the Borough's other preservation tools were advisory only and did not address the issue of demolition. Council forwarded the matter to Planning.

In 2013 Swarthmore Borough Council approved an ordinance a Town Center ordinance designed to increase and enhance the business center.