Practical Preservation Podcast Featuring Julie Fitzpatrick and Mary Tate of PA Downtown Center
Julie Fitzpatrick and Mary Tate, Executive Director and Field Services Coordinator of Pennsylvania Downtown Center, joined the Practical Preservation Podcast to discuss the nonprofit organization’s mission and services. We covered a multitude of topics including:
- Julie and Mary’s backgrounds in related fields
- How the mainstreet methodology remains relevant, particularly when addressing current issues and “creating places where people are choosing,” as Julie says
- How they address issues like the pandemic and civil unrest/protests, including helping communities develop task-forces and encouraging community dialogue
- Ways individuals can support their local communities/downtowns, especially during these unusual times
- How preservation is an economic advantage for communities, and how to leverage its benefits
- Trends and challenges in preservation in downtowns and communities, including the possibility that preservation will be at risk based on shifting priorities
- Their continued effort to adapt to circumstances, while upholding the core importance of mainstreets and downtowns as the unique symbol of their communities
