Elizabeth Tune, Director of Division of Preservation Incentives at Virginia Department of Historic Resources, will be recognized with Honorary Membership in AIA Virginia at the Visions for Architecture gala on Friday, Nov. 9, 2018, at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Honorary Membership is bestowed upon a person of esteemed character who is not eligible for membership in the AIA Virginia but who has rendered distinguished and exemplary service, over a sustained period of time, to architecture and the built environment in Virginia.
In her current role, Elizabeth works closely with property owners, design teams, and division staff throughout the Commonwealth to develop appropriate treatment and resolve preservation challenges in accordance with the Secretary of the Interiors’ Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. When she is not representing DHR in meetings and negotiations, she is helping to advise preservation partners (such as National Park Service and Preservation Virginia) in development of policy and guidance on the treatment of historic resources and researching solutions for the direct use and appropriate treatment of historic property. Her commitment to Virginia’s historic resources and properties has made a significant impact on the surrounding community, as well as highlighted DHR’s strategic role.
Her work with the Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program for the past 13 years has resulted in approximately $5 billion of investment in rehabilitation of historic properties. Most notably, Elizabeth conducted an in-depth review of a $60 million redevelopment of D.C. Workhouse and Reformatory (Lorton), Fairfax County, which includes rehabilitation of over 70 historic buildings and structures, and construction of new residential and commercial buildings; clearly communicating review determinations in writing and work with development team to resolve issues of compliance with Standards.
In addition to her work with the Tax Credit Program, Elizabeth instituted comprehensive revision of the Historic Preservation Easement Program policies, procedures, and template documents to reflect current land conservation and historic preservation laws and best management practices; engage in regular evaluation to ensure that high standards are maintained. Her most significant impact made with the program was her assistance in expanding the easement portfolio by 70%, from approximately 350 to 600 properties (and to include Civil War battlefield properties), as well as her influence in increasing the professional staff by 150% despite overall downsizing within state government.