HomeMy WebLinkAboutHDC2013-022 Letter From Rhea Roerts To Brian Minyard With LRHDC 12/05/2013T-rCRJ IV -F3
Minyard, Brian
From: Rhea Roberts <rroberts@quapaw.com>
Sent: Thursday, December 05, 2013 5:06 PM
To: Minyard, Brian
Subject: Hard copy is on the way....
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
Dear Little Rock Historic District Commission,
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. However, the current design for the
building does not comply with the guidelines for new construction and is not compatible with the historic district. The
applicant should address issues with the roof shape, pitch and materials; the window sizes, placement and orientation;
and exterior sheathing materials as stated by staff. The QQA supports the HDC staff s recommendation to deny the
application.
The application also states the intention to build additional buildings on the site in the future. This raises concerns about
the Gilmore House at 1007 McMath Avenue. It is a circa 1899 Eastlake Cottage and is in fair condition, The QQA would
oppose the moving or demolition of the house to accommodate the construction of other buildings in the future. The
owner could take advantage of historic rehabilitation tax credits to rehabilitate the house for a number of uses.
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,