The Miami-Dade County Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources' Office of Historic Preservation has garnered high praise, recently snagging two significant honors for their Heritage at Risk Survey project. The initiative, which was rolled out in the wake of the 40th anniversary of the County Historic Preservation Ordinance in 2021, was designed to shed light on historically significant sites and structures from the mid-20th century era.
The project has now received the Docomomo Modernism in America Award of Excellence and the APA Florida Award of Excellence, placing a spotlight, on OHP's efforts to document and advocate for the region's post-war architectural legacy. These awards mark a commitment to both preserving the past and engaging with the community's ongoing narrative of place and memory.
According to the official release, OHP's Heritage at Risk Survey project "highlights the importance of understanding post-war resources design elements and their resilience" and sets "a new standard for preservation practices" in the face of contemporary challenges and community needs. The Docomomo award specifically celebrates the documentation and preservation of modern architecture, singling out those who retain, restore, and advocate for these sites.
Furthermore, the APA Florida Award of Excellence is a nod to the exceptional planning and documentation efforts of OHP's project. It also serves, as an acknowledgment of the key role that thoughtful planning plays in the preservation and appreciation of a community's history. This dual recognition positions Miami-Dade County's historic preservation efforts at the forefront of a national conversation on how to respect and integrate our architectural heritage into the fabric of present-day urban landscapes.
