Historic Zoning Commission

N/A: Level II

4-C-13-HZ

Applicant Request

Level II. Replacement/repair

Construct accessible ramp of concrete with foundation of CMU with pargecoat on rear and north side of building. Replace non-code-compliant steel tube handrails and repair and rebuild existing original stairs at front entrance. Add handrails to existing on-grade stairs. Handrails to be 1-1/4" round handrails, top and bottom rails and vertical supports. 3/8-inch square pickets at 4" on center. Remove existing on-grade stairs and extend rear landing away from building. Replace non-compliant handrail at rear entrance. Replace rear double-leafed doors with single door. Relocate two parking spaces and add van-accessible parking and sidewalk in rear. Refer to drawings submitted with COA application.

Site Info

Brick institutional building with projecting center pediment and two wings. Brick quoins at corners. Large triparte transon over central front double-entry doors. Large 2/2 double-hung windows. Parged concrete block foundation.

STAFF FINDINGS

1) The ramp will be located on the rear façade of the building which is not the primary character-defining façade of the building.

2) The ramp require removal of the rear concrete stair which is not significant historic fabric and could be removed in the future without damaging the material of the original façade.

3) The proposed materials of concrete and metalrailing are compatible with the materials of the original building.

4) The proposed van-accessible parking and sidewalk will be on the rear side of the building and not the primary façade.

5) The tree adjacent to the new parking area will be preserved and protected.


SECRETARY OF INTERIORS STANDARDS
2. The distinguishing original qualities or character of a building, structure, or site and its environmental
shall not be destroyed. The removal or alteration of any historic material or distinctive architectural
features should be avoided when possible.

5. Distinctive stylistic features or examples of skilled craftsmanship which characterize a building,
structure, or site shall be treated with sensitivity.

10. Wherever possible, new additions or alterations to structure shall be done in such a manner that if such
additions or alterations were to be removed in the future, the essential form and integrity of the structure would not be impaired.