The tragedy of natural disaster hurricane Helene presents us with an opportunity to rebuild the Appalachian Mountain communities. Honoring the regional architecture while securing rural single family homes and small historic towns that support local artisans and economies.
The way Trumps Agenda 47 “freedom cities” would manifest “something out of nothing” in deserts and on federal land this program would REBUILD and pay homage to these uniquely American communities that are devastated. Securing their original zoning that cannot be changed to support mass multi family housing units. It would be a disservice to American history and the generational people to let their regional beauty and charm be replaced. As Americans, we strive to make things better but we should also honor the past and what makes each part of this country beautiful and different. History, community and experiences should not disappear because it is easier to build back in a certain way.
Therefore, I propose a national architectural contest to create a portfolio of “American Renaissance” blueprints for single family homes that nod to regional design and soulful craftsmanship to be offered in reconstruction of American communities effected by disaster under an “Office of Community Preservation”.
This rebuilding opportunity would upgrade and overhaul essential systems like water, sewer, roads & bridges to safer more sustainable infrastructure that has been long neglected.
The government also removing “red tape” from builders from those that choose to participate in the program for individual property owners rebuilding their homes using the portfolio of designs to streamline the insurance & rebuilding process through the use of packaged proposals.
It’s time to mark this point in history as a time of reconstruction and healing. We should preserve the past of the American experience while improving the lives of communities as we rebuild. The tradesman’s in the country long to display their talents and we should encourage creativity and craftsmanship during this American Renaissance.