Statement of Significance (as of designation - July 4, 1961):
The district's boom-period as a gold camp came after a narrow-gauge railroad was built to Telluride in 1890. Its buildings as a whole represent a 19th century mining frontier "boom town".

Condition:
The NHL district is in the core of the town and includes hundreds of historic buildings; almost the entire town is within a Historic Preservation Overlay District. The Historic and Architectural Review Commission (HARC) reviews all proposed exterior changes and new construction, based on historic and architectural Design Guidelines. A strong real estate market continues to exert pressure on the NHL with 1) infill development occurring on vacant lots and on lots that have non-designated buildings via demolition; and 2) alterations and/or additions to historic buildings.

In the spring of 2006, the town council clarified standards and enforcement procedures for the minimum maintenance required for historic buildings to ensure they are not suffering from neglect. Town council also indicated that the 10-year-old Design Guidelines for Building should be updated. The Town plans to update the historic and architectural survey of the NHL in 2007. Overall, there is a new, strong impetus by the Planning Department and HARC for ensuring development complies with historic preservation initiatives of the town.

Recommendation/Change since last report:
Continued review of proposed changes will help ensure that the historic character of the district is preserved. Updating Design Guidelines and the survey will provide current information that will be helpful in managing and preserving the resources.