11.2 - 2307 Bridle Path - Statement — original pdf

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CONSIDERATION FOR DEMOLITION 2307 BRIDLE PATH, AUSTIN, TX 78703 Dear Historic Landmark Commissioners, I am writing to provide important context regarding the property at 2307 Bridle Path, which our client, who resides next door at 2301 Bridle Path, purchased in the fall of 2024 with the intention of expanding his yard and constructing a recreation structure for his family. Due to the presence of large heritage and protected trees on the combined site, the buildable area for this new structure is limited to the space surrounding the existing residence at 2307 Bridle Path. Unfortunately, this limitation requires the removal of the existing residence at 2307 Bridle Path to proceed with the desired development. We have consulted with Junior Brown and Sons House Movers, who have visited the site several times to assess the possibility of relocating the existing structure. Junior Brown has determined that moving the home would cause significant damage to low-hanging tree limbs along Bridle Path, especially as the route extends west to Exposition Boulevard. Additionally, Bridle Path is narrower than most roads, making it an inhospitable, but only, route for moving a structure of this size. During this consultation process, we discovered that the home at 2307 Bridle Path has suffered from prolonged neglect, resulting in significant water damage, wood rot, and termite damage. These issues are primarily the result of poorly executed and haphazard additions made by previous owners over the years. As a result, the structural integrity of the home has been severely compromised. We also explored the possibility of relocating a reduced portion of the existing structure (approximately 1,200 square feet). However, even this reduced relocation option was deemed unfeasible due to the same challenging path and the risk of significant damage to the surrounding tree branches along the path. It is important to note that the adjacent home is where our client lives, located at 2307 Bridle Path, which was recently fully renovated. Our client does not wish to unnecessarily demolish buildings, but the current condition of the structure and its limited viability, combined with the limitations posed by the heritage trees and the site’s configuration, have led to the conclusion that demolition is the only course of action in order to fulfill the goals for the property. We kindly request that the Commission take these circumstances into account when making their determination regarding this matter. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Patrick Ousey, AIA FAB ARCHITECTURE LLC | 405 Cumberland Road Austin, Texas 78704 | | www.fabarchitecture.com