10.c - 4901 Ridge Oak Dr - public comment — original pdf

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The Austin Historic Landmark Commission and City of Austin City of Austin Planning and Zoning Department To: Austin, TX Subject: Protest Against the Demolition of the Historic House at 4901 Ridge Oak Drive Dear Members of the Austin Historic Landmark Commission and the City of Austin and to whom it may concern: I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed demolition of the house located at 4901 Ridge Oak Drive. As a resident of Austin and a passionate advocate for the preservation of our city’s rich architectural and cultural heritage, I believe this house should be preserved, not destroyed. The house at 4901 Ridge Oak Drive, constructed around 1951, stands as a remarkable example of midcentury residential architecture, believed to have been designed by renowned Austin architect Barton Riley. This home is a testament to both the architectural vision of its time and the significant contributions of the Perry family to the development of Austin’s civic and cultural life. Edgar Perry III, a former City Council member and community leader, and his family are central to the history of this property, and the house has deep historical ties to both the Perry family and the evolution of the city. As a member of the neighborhood in which this house is a part, I have always admired its mid-century design and low-profile aesthetic. It serves as a sentry to our neighborhood - giving one a taste of how the neighborhood will look and feel beyond it. We all moved here for its interesting architecture, mid-century feel, trees, and proximity to downtown. This home serves as a sentinel for the entire neighborhood due to its historic and beautiful architecture and cultural relevance. Additionally, the significance of the Perry family’s involvement in Austin's business, political, and charitable sectors cannot be overstated. Edgar Perry III, a former Austin City Council member and mayor pro tempore, left an indelible mark on the city’s civic landscape. Demolishing the house erases a key piece of this history, one that is not only valuable for its architectural merit but also for its connection to the city’s political and social evolution. While I understand that new development is inevitable in a growing city like Austin, I urge the commission to consider the lasting impact of erasing such an important part of our city's history. Demolition would be a permanent loss to our cultural and architectural landscape. As staff has recommended, adaptive reuse or rehabilitation of the structure would be far preferable to demolition, and I strongly support this course of action. In closing, I respectfully request that the Commission reconsider its stance on the demolition of this historic house and instead pursue efforts to preserve and protect it as a landmark. The preservation of Austin’s architectural gems, like this midcentury home, is critical in maintaining the city’s identity and honoring its history. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. I look forward to your response and hope that the Commission will take the necessary steps to ensure the continued preservation of this significant historical property. Sincerely, Cathlin McCullough