HomeMy WebLinkAboutHDC2014-001 Email From Rhea Roberts To Brian Minyard 02/03/2014Minyard, Brian
From: Rhea Roberts <rroberts@quapaw.com>
Sent: Monday, February 03, 2014 9:24 AM
To: Minyard, Brian
Subject: COA for 10th and McMath
Dear Chairwoman Johnson and Commissioners,
On behalf of the Quapaw Quarter Association Board of Directors, I am writing to comment on the application for a
Certificate of Appropriateness for a three story mixed use development at 1001-1007 McMath Avenue. The QQA
supports the construction of well -designed infill housing and commercial buildings in the MacArthur Park Historic
District; it is essential to the success of ongoing revitalization efforts in the area. I have reviewed the plans, met with the
applicants and discussed the project with the QQA Advocacy Committee. It is clear that much of the proposed building
complies with the guidelines for new construction. However, it's unclear whether the entire project complies with the
guidelines. If the applicant can adequately demonstrate how the building orientation, mass and scale, form and materials
are appropriate to the district according to the guidelines for new construction of primary and secondary buildings, the
QQA would support a Certificate of Appropriateness.
The QQA appreciates the applicant's interest in building on a vacant lot and dedication to the area. We also realize this
site is on the edge of the MacArthur Park Historic District and is surrounded by a variety of architectural styles; however,
it is important that the Commission ensures that all new construction is appropriate to the district. The MacArthur Park
Historic District Guidelines for Rehabilitation and New Construction provide solutions for rehabilitation and
recommendations for new construction that help preserve the historic character of the District and allow change that is
appropriate to the area's historic integrity. Local ordinance districts like this one are proven tools to stabilize and raise
property values over time when guidelines are properly enforced. It is essential to hold all property owners to the same
standard to protect the integrity of the entire district.
Thank you for your commitment to protecting Little Rock's architectural heritage. Please contact the Quapaw Quarter
Association office if we can be of assistance.
Sincerely,
Rhea C. Roberts,
Executive Director
Rhea Roberts
Executive Director
(20aRaw Quarter Association
615 East Capitol Avenue
P.O. Box 165023
Little Rock, Arkansas 72216
501.371.0075
Quapaw.com
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