05.3 - 600 Harthan St - OWANA Letter — original pdf

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Steering Committee Members: Stephen L. Amos, Chair Renae Alsobrook, Mark Ashby, Evelyn Fujimoto, Adrienne Goldsberry, Paula Hern, Nick Mehl, William Osborn, Charlie Rice, Paul Shattuck, Shawn Shillington, Erika Tatum, Meghan Yancy May 13, 2025 Subject: OWANA Position on Proposed Demolition at 600 Harthan Street - 2025-055669 DA Dear Chair Heimsath and Members of the Historic Landmark Commission, The Old West Austin Neighborhood Association (OWANA) Zoning Committee and Steering Committee have voted not to oppose the proposed demolition of the structure located at 600 Harthan Street. The building has remained vacant and in a state of neglect for over a decade, presenting significant challenges to preservation efforts. The Zoning Committee met with representatives from Riverside Resources to review early plans for the redevelopment of the site, envisioned as part of the overall concept for 1214 W 6th Street. The concept presented envisions a continuation of small-scale shops and offices along the north side of West 6th Street, designed to complement the Sixth & Blanco project now under construction. The proposed development is intended to reflect appropriate scale and massing in accordance with the design guidelines of the Harthan Local Historic District (LHD), and to ensure compatibility with the character of both the Harthan and Castle Hill Local Historic Districts. The project aspires to create a vibrant, pedestrian-oriented space where residents and visitors can shop, dine, and engage with the community. Given the long-term condition of the property and the thoughtful nature of the proposed redevelopment, OWANA believes it is appropriate to defer to the judgment of the Historic Landmark Commission in this matter. Sincerely, Stephen L. Amos Steering Committee Chair Old West Austin Neighborhood Association