Speakers say preservation is a key to improving quality of life

MACON - Revitalizing old neighborhoods is a key to reducing gridlocked highways, improving quality of life and curbing urban sprawl that is robbing America&#39;s towns and cities of their identities. <br> <br> That was the word Thursday from speakers at a statewide historic preservation conference in Macon. <br> <br> They said other benefits include increased tourism, economic development, higher property values and a better environment. <br> <br> Richard Moe, president of The National Trust for Historic Preservation in Washington, said America, in the name of progress, has disrupted its cities and scattered industries, businesses and people across the landscape, often leaving chaos and wasted investments. <br> <br> Moe said, ``Tranquil communities are destroyed by road-widening. Historic landmarks get demolished and carted off to the landfill.&#39;&#39; <br> <br> About 300 preservationists from around the state are attending the two-day conference, which opened Wednesday. Titled ``Georgia Communities at the Crossroads: Growth Strategies and Solutions,&#39;&#39; the meeting is sponsored by the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources&#39; Historic Preservation Division.

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