Historic Resources Commission – March 13, 2024

Historic Resources Commission Meeting Recap – March 13, 2024

The Historic Resources Commission held its regular meeting on March 13, 2024, with all Commissioners present. The meeting focused primarily on reviewing proposed developments within historic districts and advancing a landmark designation for a significant local building. The agenda included discussions on subdivision applications, construction projects, and a pivotal report concerning the Woolworth Building's role in the Civil Rights movement.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing two preliminary subdivision applications within the Montford Historic District. The Commission unanimously approved a request for 273 Pearson Drive, allowing the property to be subdivided into two lots with conditions. This approval hinges on ensuring any future construction on the newly created "flag lot" adheres to established design standards and doesn't negatively impact existing structures, preserving the district’s historic character. Later in the meeting, a public hearing was held regarding a proposal for 230 Cumberland Avenue. After discussion focusing on the design of an accessory structure and proposed alterations to a retaining wall, the Commission unanimously approved the certificate of appropriateness with conditions. These include revised site plans detailing additional planting and corrected walkway materials, as well as updated elevation drawings reflecting modifications to the front door and roof overhang.

The Commission also addressed a request from 5 East Winnetta Street regarding the enclosure of a rear porch. While acknowledging concerns about potentially impacting accessibility and the historic nature of porches, the Commission deferred a decision, requesting that the applicant return next month with detailed plans showcasing interior features. This request is particularly relevant given the property's connection to civil rights history, prompting a focus on preserving and interpreting that legacy.

Perhaps the most impactful discussion centered around the revised landmark designation report for the Woolworth Building, a site renowned for its pivotal role in the Civil Rights movement due to lunch counter sit-ins. Commissioners engaged in a thoughtful debate about whether the landmark designation should extend to include the building's interior, specifically the lunch counter where these historic events unfolded. While acknowledging the owner’s potential openness to this inclusion, the Commission voted to request that consultant Clay Griffith discuss incorporating interior features into the designation report. Following this step, the report will be submitted to the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), with a public hearing scheduled for May.

Beyond these specific proposals, the Commission recognized Priscilla Robinson’s contributions to documenting urban renewal efforts and nominated Bill Hort Industries for an HRC Award. The next steps include applicants for 230 Cumberland Avenue submitting revised plans, the applicant for 5 East Winnetta Street returning next month with a comprehensive plan, and Clay Griffith engaging with the Woolworth Building owner regarding potential interior designation. The upcoming public hearing in May will provide another opportunity for residents to engage with the Woolworth Building landmark designation process. This meeting underscored the Commission’s commitment to balancing development within historic districts with preserving and interpreting their unique heritage.