The mission of Architectural Review & Historic Preservation is to identify, preserve and promote historically significant buildings, sites, objects and districts for the educational, cultural and economic benefit of the community, in addition to ensuring responsible new development throughout the city.
The Architectural Review Commission (ARC) and the Barrio Latino Commission (BLC) ensures that development within the local historic districts, multiple properties grouping and local landmarks adhere to established Design Guidelines and The Secretary of Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation.
The Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) evaluates historic sites and properties and initiates the historic designation process for individual buildings and districts. Designation can be for a Local Landmark, Local Historic District, Multiple Properties Designation or a Conservation District.
The Architectural Review & Historic Preservation staff also assists the Interstate Historic Preservation Trust Fund Advisory Committee, which provides Loans and Grants from a revolving fund that was established from the proceeds generated from the sale of historic buildings impacted by Interstate expansion. The purpose of the Trust Fund is to enable the owners of eligible historic properties to preserve the character and structure of historic properties located in the National Register Districts of Ybor City, Tampa Heights and West Tampa.