The Texas Historical Commission will sponsor a symposium, "Preservation and the Balanced Community," on Jan. 14-15 at Texas State University in San Marcos.

Sessions will feature experts on architecture, downtown and economic development.

THC Executive Director F. Lawerence Oaks and San Marcos Mayor Susan Narvaiz will provide opening remarks, and the keynote address will be given by state historian Dr. Frank De La Teja.

Sessions cover economic development planning for local municipalities; how to develop and sustain an effective and active county historical commission; certified local government programs; and streetscapes, traffic and TxDOT.

A session about compatible infill architecture in historical contexts will be conducted by THC commissioner and registered architect Donna Carter.

The session will focus on how to identify the aesthetic aspects of historic buildings, while considering how to apply these characteristics to the design review of new construction within historical contexts.

The symposium will also feature a free walking tour of the San Marcos Courthouse square by Main Street Manager Kelly Franks on Wednesday from 5-6 p.m.

To learn more about the symposium contact Tracy Hoffman with the THC's community heritage development division at (512) 475-3655 or e-mail tracy.hoffman @thc.state.tx.us.