Masonry Magazine May 2012 Page. 27
Texas has a rich history of building with long-lasting masonry products," says Garza. "Masonry is part of the Texas heritage, and by embracing masonry planning, local officials and civic leaders, such as those in Lewisville, are helping to build a strong legacy for their communities." IMAS The Texas Masonry Council represents the masonry manufacturers, suppliers and contractors in Texas. Visit www.masonryordinance.com.
Lewisville storefront facade before the makeover nance and helps to hold its value," she says. She notes that new public buildings, including a new City Hall and a 35,000 sq ft visual and performing arts center also have 100 percent masonry exteriors.
Since Old Town is designated as a tax increment financing district, the additional tax revenues will be returned back to the district for more improvements and enhancements. Although the grant program has expired, the city is continuing to approve requests for grants on a case-by-case basis, Reinecke says.
"Our goal is to promote historic preservation and to revitalize the Old Town District," Reinecke says. "It's still a work in progress, but the façade grant program has been a huge success."
Lewisville was one of the first cities in North Texas to offer facade grants, but others have followed suit. These cities include Denton, McKinney and Roanoke.
The Lewisville experience is consistent with research findings showing that masonry requirements are good for towns and cities, said Rudy Garza, executive VP of the Texas Masonry Council.
A University of Michigan study of masonry ordinances in four Illinois towns concluded that such ordinances result in: 1) higher overall property values; 2) growth in the tax base, lessening the tax burden on residents; 3) continued population and housing growth, and 4) no significant impact on affordability for either renters or buyers of housing.
Research also has shown that masonry (brick, stone, concrete block) provides greater protection than non-masonry siding products against fire and windstorms, such as tornadoes and hurricanes.
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