03.a - 2500 Nueces St - Whitehall Coop - Preservation Austin Letter — original pdf

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June 2, 2025 RE: Whitehall Cooperative Historic Landmark Designation Dear Chair Heimsath and Members of the Austin Historic Landmark Commission, Preservation Austin exists to empower Austinites to shape a more inclusive, resilient, and meaningful community culture through preservation. We write to you today in support of historic designation for the Whitehall Cooperative building at 2500 Nueces for its Architecture, Historical Association, and Community Value. The Whitehall Cooperative has provided affordable housing in the West Campus neighborhood since 1949. Established as a women’s residence for UT Austin students, Whitehall began occupying the 1896 Queen Anne-style residence at 2500 Nueces in 1955. In 1956, when Black students were first admitted to UT, Whitehall was one of only two University co-ops to integrate racially. In 1960, when the opportunity to purchase the building arose, four of Whitehall’s female residents purchased the building for $25,000. The co-op became a co-ed residence for students and non-students alike in 1971. Over the decades, the home’s appearance has evolved, reflecting the cooperative’s spirit of communal involvement and individual creativity, all while maintaining its original Victorian character. As development pressures continue to intensify and the cost of living increases, Whitehall Co-op remains one of the very last affordable housing options in West Campus. Preservation Austin is proud to support Whitehall Cooperative in its pursuit of historic designation so it may continue its historic mission of providing affordable housing to the people of Austin. We thank you for your consideration and your service to the City of Austin. Sincerely, Melissa Barry, President