Kalamazoo Edison Neighborhood Survey

For historic survey projects, KDG works at the intersection of planning and historic preservation. When consulting on a historic survey project, KDG assists local planners by assembling a comprehensive, detailed snapshot of the historic buildings within the community. To create the report, KDG documents each building in the field, conducts research online and at local resource sites, and evaluates the buildings at the individual and community level.
In 2021, KDG conducted a reconnaissance-level survey of the historic Edison neighborhood in Kalamazoo. The project was partially funded by the Michigan State Historic Preservation Office and is being administered by the City of Kalamazoo. The project is critical to elevate and document the histories of marginalized communities and will act as a catalyst for future designation and nomination in the neighborhood. The survey consists of approximately 3,500 parcels and is being completed in compliance with the 2018 Michigan Above Ground Survey Manual and Michigan State Historic Preservation Office Style Guide. A critical component of the survey is the community engagement component—Kraemer Design Group has consulted with both local experts as well as community residents to help inform and evaluate the area’s resources. KDG is excited to be playing a key role in documenting the history and shaping the future planning of the Edison neighborhood.