16.a - 2600 E MLK Jr Blvd - public comment — original pdf
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From: To: Subject: Date: Historic Preservation Office Against Review Case DA 24-165526 Monday, December 30, 2024 2:14:19 PM You don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Dear Sam Fahnestock, I am writing to submit comments for the Historic Landmark Commission, regarding Review Case DA 24-165526 for the commission's consideration in advance of the January 8, 2025 meeting when this case will be discussed. I am a resident living within 500 feet of 2600 E. MLK Jr Blvd., which is the subject of DA 24-165526. I am AGAINST the proposed demolition of this building, which is the last surviving structure associated with the Holy Cross Hospital, the city’s first hospital for Black patients that was recently granted a historical marker through the Texas Historic Commission's Undertold Markers program (https://austin.towers.net/marking-the-medical-history-of-east-austin-at-holy-cross- hospital/). Preservation of this structure would honor the significant cultural history that it represents, while also building on the efforts of the immediately adjacent Rogers Washington Holy Cross Historic District in demonstrating the determination and success of the African American community in Austin. I am also concerned about broader plans for the development of this property following demolition, as this permit is one part of a proposal that involves converting the property from civic to mixed use zoning, including density bonuses (Zoning case C14-2024-0111 / Plan Amendment case NPA-2024-0008.01). The preservation of this structure would maintain a street-facing scale and style that is compatible with and complimentary to the adjacent historic residential neighborhoods, as well as other historically significant structures along this stretch of MLK, including David Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, the Della Phillips House, and Fuller-Sheffield Funeral Home--all located less than 500 feet on either side of the property, and characterized by horizontal massing and low slung roofs similar to the style of this structure. Maintaining the stylistic features of the surrounding area at this particular, prominent corner is important and meaningful for this community's and our city's identity. Thank you for your attention to these concerns and consideration of protecting this culturally and historically significant structure. Sincerely, Bridget Ground 1806 Cedar Avenue CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov".