As houses of worship across the U.S. close at an accelerating rate, local governments and Economic Development Districts face both a pressing challenge and a unique opportunity. This webinar, led by Rick Reinhard, principal of Niagara Consulting Group and associate at the Lakelands Institute, explores how municipalities and Economic Development Districts (EDDs) can engage religious leaders, congregations, and developers to thoughtfully reimagine these properties. Whether repurposed for affordable housing, social services, the arts, or mixed-use community hubs, houses of worship can serve as powerful anchors for revitalization when guided by strategic collaboration.

Drawing from real-world examples and national best practices, Reinhard offers actionable insights on how local leaders can navigate the emotional, political, and regulatory complexities of adaptive reuse. The session highlights effective partnership models, along with practical tools such as targeted tax policies, zoning adjustments, grant and loan programs, and facility regulations, all designed to support community-driven redevelopment that honors both heritage and local need.

Click to download presentation slides (PDF)

Additional resources from Rick Reinhard:

Can Struggling Houses of Worship Be Turned into Housing?  Not Always” (Governing) 

YIGBY (“Yes in God’s Backyard) Movement Finds New Uses for Declining Houses of Worship (Urban Land Institute)

What Are We Going to Do with 100,000 Empty Churches?” (Aaron Renn Show podcast)  

Faith Property Collaborative Resource List

You can contact Rick here with questions and for more information.

This webinar was offered through the NADO Research Foundation’s Economic Development District Community of Practice (EDD CoP). The EDD CoP is made possible through an award from the U.S. Economic Development Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce (ED22HDQ3070106). The statements, findings, conclusions, and recommendations are those of the presenters and participants and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Economic Development Administration or the U.S. Department of Commerce.

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