FRANKLIN, Ind. -- A local organization is taking old, abandoned properties in downtown Franklin and renovating them to help bring the city back to life.
For 35 years, Franklin Heritage has helped to transform and restore abandoned homes. Their work raises property values across the city and improves the look and feel of downtown Franklin.
“Getting those houses restored, fixed up, it just brings back your streets, your neighborhoods,” said Rob Shilts, Executive Director of Franklin Heritage.
Tuesday, the organization teamed up with students from Center Grove High School as part of their service day to work on a home along Front Street.
“The attic we cleaned it out, and we did the same thing with the basement,” said junior Timmy Bumps.
It was a service project and a learning experience for the students.
Shilts says the organization’s projects don’t just preserve historical buildings; they also provide economic development for the city.
“You’re bringing back some of these houses that haven’t been on the tax rolls in years, and now, suddenly, they’ll be helping with an assessed value of town,” said Shilts. “Every property that we do, it brings the value up. Well, that helps every homeowner around them.”
You can see some of the work Franklin Heritage has done throughout the city at their Historic Home Tour this Saturday, September 15 and Sunday, September 16.
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