B.2 - Seaholm Intake Building - The Trail Foundation support letter — original pdf

Backup

June 16, 2020 Steve Sadowsky Historic Preservation Officer Historic Preservation Office - Planning and Zoning Dept. PO Box 1088, Austin TX 78767 RE: The historic Seaholm Intake Structure - Historic Landmark Commission Dear Mr. Sadowsky: I write this to express The Trail Foundation’s support for the June 22 agenda item regarding the Seaholm Intake Structure. This Phase One effort will bring the long-abandoned Intake Structure into appropriate and respectful public use. The work before the Commission is based on design and planning done by internationally-acclaimed architecture firm, Studio Gang, who was commissioned by a partnership of The Trail Foundation, the Austin Parks Foundation and the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department. Through their advocacy, the Studio Gang plan brings the Seaholm Waterfront, including the Intake Structure, into the public realm, while respecting the historical significance of the structure and the site. Throughout this process, the Parks and Recreation Department has worked closely with The Trail Foundation, seeking guidance and support in a constructive, collaborative and, mutually respectful effort. In our view, this process along with the skill and dedication of Cotera + Reed Architects has served the City well, particularly in terms of sensitivity to the historic significance of the assignment. We believe that this Phase One effort honors the spirit of the Studio Gang vision and honors the historic significance of the Intake Structure and its site. We are anxious for a successful outcome that will create a valuable new public amenity in the heart of our city. For this reason, we ask the Commission to approve this agenda item. Thank you, Charlotte Tonsor Project Director