HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION PERMITS IN NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICTS AUGUST 7, 2024 HR-2023-043027 TRAVIS HEIGHTS-FAIRVIEW PARK NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT 1409 ALTA VISTA AVENUE 17 – 1 PROPOSAL Demolish a ca. 1926 house. ARCHITECTURE RESEARCH One-story Craftsman with horizontal wood siding, screened wood windows, decorative shutters, a hooded entryway with decorative brackets, and a clipped-gable roof. The house at 1409 Alta Vista Avenue was built around 1926. Until 1947, its occupants were mostly short-term owners and renters, including an engineer, a state highway inspector, an office manager, and a mechanic. The home was then purchased by Frank and Lura Connolly. Frank Connolly was the editor, owner, and publisher of the Texas Tax Journal, while Lura worked both at the journal and as a Red Cross nurse. The Connollys sold the home in the late 1950s to Anna and William Duncum. William Duncum worked as a public school teacher. PROPERTY EVALUATION The property contributes to the Travis Heights-Fairview Park National Register district. Designation Criteria—Historic Landmark 1) The building is more than 50 years old. 2) The building appears to retain high integrity. 3) Properties must meet two criteria for landmark designation (LDC §25-2-352). Staff has evaluated the property and determined that it does not meet two criteria: a. Architecture. The building is a good example of modest Craftsman architecture in Travis Heights. b. Historical association. The property does not appear to have significant historical associations. c. Archaeology. The property was not evaluated for its potential to yield significant data concerning the human history or prehistory of the region. d. Community value. The property does not appear to possess a unique location, physical characteristic, or significant feature that contributes to the character, image, or cultural identity of the city, the neighborhood, or a particular demographic group. e. Landscape feature. The property does not appear to be a significant natural or designed landscape with artistic, aesthetic, cultural, or historical value to the city. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Strongly encourage adaptive reuse and rehabilitation, then relocation over demolition, but release the demolition permit upon completion of a City of Austin Documentation Package. The Historic Landmark Commission must review plans for new construction in National Register Historic Districts before the demolition permit is released. LOCATION MAP 17 – 2 PROPERTY INFORMATION Photos 17 – 3 17 – 4 1952 Frank R. & Lura J. Connolly – Texas Tax Journal Publication Co., Littlefield Bldg. Application, 2023 Occupancy History …
From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Russell Korte Historic Preservation Office district9@austin.texas.gov; Beeler, Melissa; Qadri, Zo; Fahnestock, Sam; Adrian, Leah; kalan.cotreras@austintexas.gov; Heimsath, Ben - BC; Dudley, Tara - BC Concerns Regarding 1409 Alta Vista Demolition Tuesday, June 11, 2024 9:03:44 AM City Arborist; Some people who received this message don't often get email from important . Learn why this is External Email - Exercise Caution Hello -- I am writing regarding the planned demolition of 1409 Alta Vista Avenue. I am a proponent of new development within our city, but without careful planning and consideration, this project could be an imminent danger to heritage trees on the property, negatively impact the neighborhood and Alta Vista Avenue, and set the wrong precedent for development under updated building codes. I am urging a postponement of the demolition approval until a full development plan is shared and neighborhood concerns are addressed. I observed at the June 5, 2024 Historic Landmark Commission meeting that the owner of this property intends to carry out a full demolition followed by the construction of a triplex. The owner, however, has not attempted to contact or make clear his plans with immediate neighbors or the neighborhood association. As the owner and resident of the house next door, 1407 Alta Vista, I am greatly concerned about the impact of this project on the neighborhood, Alta Vista Avenue, and my property. While I support the creation of additional affordable housing units in our city, I have concerns about approving the demolition of this original structure without a clear understanding of the triplex plans for this lot. My specific concerns include: Preservation of Heritage Trees: There are seven heritage trees documented on the demolition permit. How will the project address the preservation of the beautiful heritage oak trees on the property? How do we ensure that the developer does not willfully violate tree preservation rules? Maintaining Existing Feel and Setbacks How will the project ensure the preservation of existing street's feel? The setbacks create a sense of openness and greenery that is unique and core to the identity of Travis Heights Street and Alley Access and Parking: How will access and parking be managed for three units on this lot? I urge the Historic Landmark Commission, and the city, to hold off on approving the demolition of the existing structure until there is a comprehensive review of the proposed plans to ensure …
From: To: Subject: Date: Hillary Bilheimer Historic Preservation Office Tree Ordinance Review Sunday, June 9, 2024 9:53:41 AM You don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Hello I am writing about 1409 Alta Vista Av 78704 and the proposed development that is being permitted at that location. The developer has submitted plans for demolition of existing and building 3 new structures on the property. With seven heritage trees on the site, I am curious how this will happen. I am very much in support of keeping existing trees and setbacks in this neighborhood (I am an Alta Vista resident, myself). I do not support the current CoA loophole of essentially allowing developers to remove trees by paying a fine. This allows developers to merely absorb the fine in the case where they will turn around and sell whatever they are building at extremely inflated prices. It does nothing to actually preserve our heritage trees. In this particular case, both the developer and architect are from outside of Austin and can be assumed to only see the trees as a nuisance and not as the habitat-providing, shade-providing members of our urban forest that they are. Please let me know what is being done and what can still be done at this stage in order to protect these trees. Thank you Hillary Bilheimer 1802 Alta Vista Av 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".
June 28, 2024 Historic Landmark Commission of the City of Austin City Hall - Boards and Commissions Room 301 W. 2nd St. Austin, TX 78701 Email: preservation@austintexas.gov Re: Opposition to PR-2024-033568, Agenda Item No. 10: 1409 Alta Vista Ave. National Register District Permit Application for “Total demolition” by South River City Citizens Neighborhood Association (“SRCC”) To the Historic Landmark Commission: Please find the following resolution passed by SRCC at its June 18, 2024, general membership meeting concerning the above-referenced item on the agenda for your July 3, 2024 meeting. —----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Whereas the Travis Heights-Fairview Park National Register Historic District (the “District”) has been recognized by the U.S. Department of the Interior; Whereas the property at 1409 Alta Vista (the “Property”), constructed in 1926, is considered a contributing and protected property within the District; Whereas the application to the National Park Service for certification of the District makes numerous references to the importance of the “landscape,” “tree canopy,” and “dense vegetation” (see page 11) and use of design traditions espoused by Andrew Jackson Downing and Frederick Law Olmstead (see page 13); Whereas the Property has seven significant trees that are integral to the character of the Property, the context of the street and neighborhood, and the nature of the District; Whereas demolition of the existing structure on the Property and the proposed construction of two to three densely-packed structures could damage or compel removal of the significant or heritage trees; Whereas the Historic Landmark Commission of the City of Austin is reviewing application number H-2023-043027 to proceed with demolition and new construction on the Property; Whereas, the District contains many examples of new additions to contributing properties; Whereas, the District contains many examples of Accessory Dwelling Units (“ADUs”) added to an original contributing home; Whereas, such new additions and ADUs illustrate square footage enlargement alternatives to full demolition and new construction; Whereas, the recent Home Options for Mobility and Equity (H.O.M.E) Initiative passed by the Austin City Council in December 2023 and May 2024 provides Preservation and Sustainability Bonuses to property owners who retain the original home; Therefore, be it resolved that SRCC, through vote of its general membership on June 18, 2024, opposes the release of the demolition permit proposed under application number HR-2023-043027, unless and until the owner of the Property can demonstrate plans to adequately protect the trees on the Property and preserve the façade of the contributing …
From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: CLIFTON LADD Larosche, Carl - BC; McWhorter, Trey - BC; bc-jamie.alvarez@austintexas.gov; Castillo, Raymond - BC; Rubio, JuanRaymon - BC; Evans, Roxanne - BC; Heimsath, Ben - BC; Featherston, Witt; Grogan, Harmony - BC; Dudley, Tara - BC; Koch, Kevin - BC Historic Preservation Office; Susan Armstrong Fisher HLC 7-3-24 meeting, agenda item 10: 1409 Alta Vista (PR-2024-033568) Monday, July 1, 2024 10:33:29 AM External Email - Exercise Caution I am writing to oppose the issuance of a demolition permit for 1409 Alta Vista (PR-2024-033568). I am Co-chair of the South River City Citizens (SRCC) Historic Preservation Committee and a resident of the Travis Heights - Fairview Park National Register Historic District. Thank you for this opportunity to comment. The SRCC approved a resolution regarding this home, which will be provided to you separately. Because of technical difficulties last month, I was unable to speak virtually at that meeting, though I had signed up and was on the line when my name was called. What follows is substantively what I had intended to say, had the system worked as it should have. I will not be able to attend in person or virtually on July 3. Thank you for considering my comments in your decision. The Travis Heights - Fairview Park National Register Historic District includes 353 acres of the South River City Citizens neighborhood area. It includes the core of the neighborhood and many of the oldest homes in the neighborhood. The district was approved in July 2021, because it meets the required eligibility criteria for protection on the National Register. I urge you to disapprove the application for demolition of 1409 Alta Vista. Alta Vista is one of the most important streets in the National Register District. For example, the 2024 Preservation Austin historic homes tour featured the Mabel Davis home at 1308 Alta Vista, just a block away from this home proposed for demolition. Both the house and the separate but associated garage are identified as contributing structures in the National Register Historic District listing. As such, they would need separate applications for a demolition permit. 1409 Alta Vista is a beautiful one-story craftsman home built in approximately 1926. I appreciate the staff review of this home, though I believe the property may meet the three required designation criteria for historic landmark status, including community value. I encourage you to evaluate this further. …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION PERMITS IN NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICTS AUGUST 7, 2024 2024-086522 SB; 2024-086516 SB CONGRESS AVENUE HISTORIC DISTRICT 600 CONGRESS AVENUE 18-19 – 1 PROPOSAL Install a tenant directory sign and an address sign. PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS 1) 2) Install directory signs totaling 19 square feet in area. The proposed directory panel is painted steel with cut-out tenant panels backed with white acrylic. Install an awning sign totaling 34 square feet in area. The proposed sign, atop the main entrance canopy, is fabricated with painted aluminum and acrylic. The sign is internally lit with LED lighting; “600” is halo-lit while “Congress” is face-lit. DESIGN STANDARDS The City of Austin’s Guidelines for Signs in National Register Districts are used to evaluate projects in National Register districts. The following standards apply to the proposed project: Number of Signs: The Commission allows one sign per building, unless the building has multiple tenants; in this case, the Commission may allow one sign per façade module, if the façade modules correspond to tenant spaces. The Commission may also allow one sign for each street frontage if the building is at an intersection. A single directory sign is appropriate for a large building with multiple tenants. The current project includes a directory sign and tenant signs that comply with the guidelines. The sign plan uploaded to backup indicates further planned signage and shows how the address and tenant signs fit into the larger proposed scheme for the building’s individual façade modules. Sign Types: The Commission may allow window signs, awning signs, projecting signs, and flush mounted signs for most commercial buildings. Freestanding signs are allowed for office and retail uses in historic residential buildings. City codes prohibit the Commission from approving the following sign types: (1) rotating, (2) offpremise, (3) roof signs, (4) portable, or (5) signs which flash or blink at intervals. City code also prohibits handbills, posters, or placards on a structure except inside a window or on a bulletin board. The proposed sign types are not prohibited. Sign Size: The maximum size for signs depends on the sign type: 1. Projecting (blade) signs: 6 square feet 2. Flush-mounted signs: 7% of the overall façade area, with a maximum height of 2 feet and a maximum size of 20 square feet 3. Window signs: The lesser of 20% of the window or 8 square feet 4. Awning signs: The lesser of 20% of …
600 Congress Ave | Exterior Building ID Signs Permit Art Not for construction Date 7.10.2024 Exterior Building ID Signs Permit Info 407 Radam Lane, Suite A100 Austin, TX 78745 512.326.9333 2024 ION ART INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED All rights reserved. The intellectual property, concepts, and designers contained in this document are the exclusive property of Ion Art, Inc. Neither the document nor the information it contains may be copied, disclosed to others, or used in connection with any work of project other than the specifi c project for which it has been prepared and developed, without the written consent of Ion Art, Inc. ION JOB # CLIENT 6406 600 Congress Ave. PROJECT ADDRESS 600 Congress Ave., Austin, Texas 78701 N Overview - Building ID signs to be permitted • Electrical, illuminated Signs: • Building ID Awning Sign (1x): total display area: 34 SF • Non-illuminated Signs: • Building directory wall sign (1x): total display area: 19 SF - 4 Sq ft per tenant panel (currently ve tenants) • Building ID Signs (Congress Ave.) Total display area: 53 SF • Installation: • Building ID awning sign height: 19’ - 0” AF • Building Directory wall sign height: 3’- 6”AF • Property Address: 600 Congress Ave, Austin, Texas 78701 g ID ctory uildin & Dire B t 4 n a n e T 1ft 8 Additional Permitting Information • Linear feet of storefront width: 462ft - 0in (226LF along Congress Ave.; 236LF along 6th St.) • Setback of signs: • Wall sign: 18ft • Electrical requirements: • Minimum of 1 dedicated 120V 20amp circuit, and J-box within 6ft of sign (per sign; to be installed by others). 407 Radam Lane, Suite A100 Austin, TX 78745 512.326.9333 2024 ION ART INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED All rights reserved. The intellectual property, concepts, and designers contained in this document are the exclusive property of Ion Art, Inc. Neither the document nor the information it contains may be copied, disclosed to others, or used in connection with any work of project other than the specifi c project for which it has been prepared and developed, without the written consent of Ion Art, Inc. ION JOB # CLIENT 6406 600 Congress Ave. PAGE 1 of 4 PROJECT ADDRESS 600 Congress Ave., Austin, Texas 78701 Building Directory Sign 48” x 57” (19 sq ft) Building ID Sign 33” x 212” (34 sq ft) 19’- 0” 3’- 6” East …
600 Congress Ave | Exterior Signs Master Plan Permit Art Not for construction Date 7.10.2024 Exterior Signs - Master Plan 407 Radam Lane, Suite A100 Austin, TX 78745 512.326.9333 2024 ION ART INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED All rights reserved. The intellectual property, concepts, and designers contained in this document are the exclusive property of Ion Art, Inc. Neither the document nor the information it contains may be copied, disclosed to others, or used in connection with any work of project other than the specifi c project for which it has been prepared and developed, without the written consent of Ion Art, Inc. ION JOB # CLIENT 6406 600 Congress Ave. PROJECT ADDRESS 600 Congress Ave., Austin, Texas 78701 N Overview - Master Sign Plan • Electrical, illuminated Signs: • Awning Sign (5x): total display area: 106 SF • Wall Sign (4x) - total display area: 55 SF • Projecting Sign (1x) - total display area: 6 SF • Congress Ave. Total display area: 113 SF • 6th St. Total display area: 54 SF • Non-illuminated Signs: • Building directory wall sign (1x): total display area: 19 SF - 4 Sq ft per tenant panel (currently ve tenants) • Installation: • Awning sign height: 14’ - 4” AF • Building ID (awning sign) height: 19’ - 0” AF • Wall sign height: - Building Directory: 3’- 6”AF - Existing tenant: 14’- 2”AF • (existing) Projecting sign height: 14’ - 4” AF • Property Address: 600 Congress Ave, Austin, Texas 78701 g ID ory t uildin c & Dire B t 4 n a n e T 1ft 8 Additional Permitting Information • Linear feet of storefront width: 462ft - 0in (226LF along Congress Ave.; 236LF along 6th St.) • Setback of signs: • Wall sign: 18ft • Electrical requirements: • Minimum of 1 dedicated 120V 20amp circuit, and J-box within 6ft of sign (per sign; to be installed by others). 407 Radam Lane, Suite A100 Austin, TX 78745 512.326.9333 2024 ION ART INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED All rights reserved. The intellectual property, concepts, and designers contained in this document are the exclusive property of Ion Art, Inc. Neither the document nor the information it contains may be copied, disclosed to others, or used in connection with any work of project other than the specifi c project for which it has been prepared and developed, without the written consent of Ion Art, …
600 Congress Ave | Exterior Building ID Signs Permit Art Not for construction Date 7.10.2024 Exterior Building ID Signs Permit Info 407 Radam Lane, Suite A100 Austin, TX 78745 512.326.9333 2024 ION ART INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED All rights reserved. The intellectual property, concepts, and designers contained in this document are the exclusive property of Ion Art, Inc. Neither the document nor the information it contains may be copied, disclosed to others, or used in connection with any work of project other than the specifi c project for which it has been prepared and developed, without the written consent of Ion Art, Inc. ION JOB # CLIENT 6406 600 Congress Ave. PROJECT ADDRESS 600 Congress Ave., Austin, Texas 78701 N Overview - Building ID signs to be permitted • Electrical, illuminated Signs: • Building ID Awning Sign (1x): total display area: 34 SF • Non-illuminated Signs: • Building directory wall sign (1x): total display area: 19 SF - 4 Sq ft per tenant panel (currently ve tenants) • Building ID Signs (Congress Ave.) Total display area: 53 SF • Installation: • Building ID awning sign height: 19’ - 0” AF • Building Directory wall sign height: 3’- 6”AF • Property Address: 600 Congress Ave, Austin, Texas 78701 g ID ctory uildin & Dire B t 4 n a n e T 1ft 8 Additional Permitting Information • Linear feet of storefront width: 462ft - 0in (226LF along Congress Ave.; 236LF along 6th St.) • Setback of signs: • Wall sign: 18ft • Electrical requirements: • Minimum of 1 dedicated 120V 20amp circuit, and J-box within 6ft of sign (per sign; to be installed by others). 407 Radam Lane, Suite A100 Austin, TX 78745 512.326.9333 2024 ION ART INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED All rights reserved. The intellectual property, concepts, and designers contained in this document are the exclusive property of Ion Art, Inc. Neither the document nor the information it contains may be copied, disclosed to others, or used in connection with any work of project other than the specifi c project for which it has been prepared and developed, without the written consent of Ion Art, Inc. ION JOB # CLIENT 6406 600 Congress Ave. PAGE 1 of 4 PROJECT ADDRESS 600 Congress Ave., Austin, Texas 78701 Building Directory Sign 48” x 57” (19 sq ft) Building ID Sign 33” x 212” (34 sq ft) 19’- 0” 3’- 6” East …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION PERMITS IN NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICTS AUGUST 7, 2024 PR-2024-064449, GF-2024-073048; HR-2024-085976 WILSHIRE WOOD NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT 4200 WILSHIRE PARKWAY 20-21 – 1 PROPOSAL Demolish a ca. 1947 house and construct a new building in its place. PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS The proposed new house is one story, clad in fiber cement siding with wood, stone, and salvaged limestone accents. Rooflines include a standing-seam metal shed roof with exposed rafter tails, as well as a hipped low-slope membrane roof at the secondary wing. Fenestration includes a combination of clerestory windows, vertically and horizontally oriented fixed-pane windows, and fully glazed doors. One-story cross-gabled house clad in siding and cut-stone veneer, with multilight steel casement windows and a front-facing garage. The house at 4200 Wilshire Parkway was built in 1947 by developers Bradfield and Brush. Its earliest occupants were William and Rachel Willis. William Willis worked at the Bireley’s Beverages bottling plant on Fifth Street. By the late 1950s, the Willises had sold the property to Charles L. and Bessie Simonsen. The Simonsens, a retired couple, had moved from Pittsburgh to be closer to their son, who taught chemistry at the University of Texas. The City of Austin’s Historic Design Standards (March 2021) are based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and are used to evaluate projects in National Register districts. The following standards apply to the proposed project: ARCHITECTURE RESEARCH DESIGN STANDARDS Residential new construction 1. Location The proposed building is sited in approximately the same location as the existing house. 2. Orientation The proposed building is oriented toward the primary street. 3. Scale, massing, and height The proposed building’s scale, massing, and height appear appropriate to the district. 4. Proportions The proposed building’s proportions only somewhat reflect the proportions of contributing buildings, though its one-story height and canted wings appear to increase compatibility. 5. Design and style The proposed building’s design and style does not appear to reflect the contributing buildings in the district, though its height and materials appear to increase compatibility. 6. Roofs The proposed roofline appears more complex than the simple rooflines present on contributing structures. 7. Exterior walls Exterior wall materials are appropriate. 8. Windows and doors The proposed building’s fenestration is somewhat compatible. 11. Attached garages and carports Though the proposed garage is oriented toward the main street, it is visually light and does not appear as a focal point. …
City of Austin Development Services Department Land Status Determination 1995 Rule Platting Exception June 13, 2024 File Number: C8I-2024-0092 Address: 4200 WILSHIRE PKWY Tax Parcel I.D.# 0218110524 Tax Map Date: 06/13/2024 The Development Services Department Review has determined that this parcel, as described in the attached description and map, IS EXCEPTED FROM THE REQUIREMENT TO PLAT in accordance with the Land Development Code, Section 25-4-2(C), and is eligible to receive utility service. The parcel of land consists of five acres or less, and is described as being LOT 4, LESS N5FT & SE TRI, WILSHIRE PARK; LOT 3, BLOCK 4, S CEN E PART OF WILSHIRE WOOD, SEC 3, Travis County, Texas in the current deed, recorded on Mar 30, 2007, in Document #2007057101, Travis County Deed Records. This parcel existed in its current configuration on January 1,1995, as evidenced by a deed recorded on Jun 26, 1984, in Volume 8668, Page 591, Travis County Deed Records. The parcel was lawfully receiving utility service, as defined in Section 212.012 of the Texas Local Government Code, on January 1, 1995, as evidenced by water service on Sep 24, 1947. The parcel meets the requirements of the Land Development Code for roadway frontage and is located on an existing street. Additional Notes/Conditions: NONE This determination of the status of the property is based on the application of Chapter 212, Municipal Regulation of Subdivisions and Property Development, Texas Local Government Code; and the City of Austin Land Development Code, Chapter 25-4, Subdivision. Recognition hereby does not imply approval of any other portion of the City Code or any other regulation. By: _Patrick Collins_____________________________________ Patrick Collins, Representative of the Director Development Services Department Tax Parcel I.D.# 0218110524 Tax Map Date: 06/13/2024
Hallmark Inspections, LLC INSPECTED FOR Meghan Hughes 4200 Wilshire Pkwy Austin, TX 78722 May 21, 2024 Hallmark Inspections, LLC 1805 Sanchez St Austin, TX 78702 Phone 512-660-7061 aaronwedemeyer@gmail.com SOLD TO: Meghan Hughes TX INVOICE INVOICE NUMBER 20240521-01 INVOICE DATE 05/21/2024 LOCATION 4200 Wilshire Pkwy REALTOR DESCRIPTION PRICE AMOUNT SUBTOTAL TAX TOTAL BALANCE DUE $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 THANK YOU FOR YOUR BUSINESS! PROPERTY INSPECTION REPORT FORM Meghan Hughes Name of Client 4200 Wilshire Pkwy, Austin, TX 78722 Address of Inspected Property Aaron Wedemeyer Name of Inspector Name of Sponsor (if applicable) 05/21/2024 Date of Inspection 26252 TREC License # TREC License # PURPOSE OF INSPECTION A real estate inspection is a visual survey of a structure and a basic performance evaluation of the systems and components of a building. It provides information regarding the general condition of a residence at the time the inspection was conducted. It is important that you carefully read ALL of this information. Ask the inspector to clarify any items or comments that are unclear. RESPONSIBILITY OF THE INSPECTOR This inspection is governed by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) Standards of Practice (SOPs), which dictates the minimum requirements for a real estate inspection. The inspector IS required to: use this Property Inspection Report form for the inspection; inspect only those components and conditions that are present, visible, and accessible at the time of the inspection; indicate whether each item was inspected, not inspected, or not present; indicate an item as Deficient (D) if a condition exists that adversely and materially affects the performance of a system or component OR constitutes a hazard to life, limb or property as specified by the SOPs; and explain the inspector’s findings in the corresponding section in the body of the report form. The inspector IS NOT required to: identify all potential hazards; turn on decommissioned equipment, systems, utilities, or apply an open flame or light a pilot to operate any appliance; climb over obstacles, move furnishings or stored items; prioritize or emphasize the importance of one deficiency over another; provide follow-up services to verify that proper repairs have been made; or inspect system or component listed under the optional section of the SOPs (22 TAC 535.233). RESPONSIBILITY OF THE CLIENT While items identified as Deficient (D) in an inspection report DO NOT obligate any party to make repairs or take other actions, in the event that any further evaluations …
To Whom It May Concern: We have been hired as the general contractor for Meghan Hughes home at 4200 Wilshire Parkway. We specialize in both new construction and remodeling of residential and commercial projects. In our experience, we have found new construction of most homes to be more efficient in both time and cost. New construction also allows us to properly install adequate water proofing methods and energy efficient insulation and heating and cooling systems. The existing construction of Meghan’s home will not allow for proper exterior wall and roof insulation, or adequate vapor barriers. This combination can lead to potential issues with moisture build up and possibly mold in the future. It is also our experience in remodels of homes from the 1940s, that if the owner does desire to install proper insulation and vapor barrier systems, that very little of the existing home is actually remaining at the completion of the project. Thank you for your consideration for this project. Please let us know if you need any additional information from our team at Archive Properties. Sincerely, Ken Dineen Owner - Archive Properties
Water/Wastewater Service Plan Verification Form (WWWSPV) 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive | 512-972-1000 Option 3 | AWTaps@austintexas.gov Service Address: Lot: ALL FIELDS ARE REQUIRED Block: Subdivision: Will the dwelling units be demolished? Are there multiple dwelling units on the lot? Land Status or re-subdivision? Original Address: Are new dwelling units being built? Is this a corner lot? Existing Lot Use: Proposed Use: If SFR, sq ft: If Proposed Use is Other, describe the structure to be built: Existing Bath Count: Additional Bath Count: Proposed Bath Count Meter #1: Meter #2: Existing protected trees to remain on lot? Refer to the City Arborist website for required levels of tree protection. Water meters and wastewater cleanouts are not permitted in sidewalks or driveways Relocation of services from sidewalks or driveways shall be performed at the applicant's expense. The applicant listed below attests that the information provided is deemed accurate and complete based on available records. The applicant is responsible to confirm the location and suitability of existing water and wastewater services. The applicant may be responsible for costs associated to corrections due to incomplete or invalid information provided. Applicant Name Date Applicant Phone Applicant Email Submit this form along with plot plan, site plan or building plan to AWTaps@austintexas.gov. Plans must clearly mark all utilities and any tree critical root zones. Failure to comply may result in this form being rejected. Austin Water Use Only - Submit supporting documentation to Applicant when responding Water main size: Water service size: Water service material: Existing water service line/meter location: Existing Meter #s: Shared service? Proposed new meter size(s): Existing meter size(s): If Yes, meter #/size/address: Wastewater main size: WW service size: Clean-out location: WO denoting WW service line work: Water or wastewater main located on property? REQUIRED ACTIONS Secondary Address Needed? Land Status Determination Needed? Meter Purchase Required? Utility Plan Required? Comments Taps Permitting Office Staff Signature Date of Signature Stamp WWWSPV Form - revised 10/2/2023 116 118 117 103 101 104 102 112 110 111 106 107 105 108 109 113 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 116 117 118 TREE TABLE TREE TAG NO. TREE TYPE 15.5" CEDAR ELM 14" CEDAR ELM 13.5" CEDAR ELM 11.5" CEDAR ELM 19" CEDAR ELM 18" CEDAR ELM 14.5" CEDAR ELM 15" CEDAR ELM 16" CEDAR ELM 10" CEDAR ELM 18" CEDAR ELM 19.5" CEDAR ELM 10" CEDAR ELM 19" …
June 20, 2024 Meghan Hughes 4200 Wilshire Parkway Austin, Texas 78722 Re: Structural Observations of Existing Single-Family Residence 4200 Wilshire Parkway Austin, Texas 78722 Dear Meghan, As per your request, a representative of Fort Structures has reviewed the conditions of the existing residence that was built in approximately 1948. A home inspection report was issued on May 21, 2024 by Hallmark Inspections. The existing foundation is a concrete slab on grade with shallow perimeter grade beams. The inspection report points out sheetrock cracks, foundation cracks, and exterior veneer cracks, which are indicative of foundation movement. There are many cracked floor finishes, and cracks are visible at the garage floor. This property is located in an Erosion Hazard Zone (EHZ). An EHZ Analysis was done by Capital Geotechnical Services PLLC on April 18, 2024. The 4:1 incision slope analyzed in the report encompasses the back of the existing house. In the event of a substantial flood, the back of the house would be at risk of being undermined, and could fail. We recommend that any new construction be built on a deep foundation system designed to withstand a potential flood event. Additionally, there is a vast amount of rotting wood cladding that likely extends into the walls of the structure. Extensive water damage is present in various parts of the ceiling, walls, and floor finishes. The anticipated lifespan of a single-family residence is 50 years, and this structure has surpassed that by one and a half times. Making repairs to the existing structure would be cumbersome and expensive, and nearly the entire home would end up being rebuilt. Based on the current condition and the proximity to the EHZ, we recommend building a new structure. If you have any questions regarding the information in this report, please feel free to contact me at 512-817- 9264, or Thank you for your business. Sincerely, FORT Structures, Inc By: Samuel Covey, P.E. Its: Principal, TX Reg# 123,796 FORT Structures, Inc. TBPE Firm# 18034 June 20, 2024 June 20, 2024 4200 Wilshire Structural Observation Letter PG 1 of 1
Dear City of Austin & Historic Landmark Commission, My name is Meghan Hughes, and I am writing to express the utmost importance of demolishing my current home that I own at 4200 Wilshire Parkway. My goal is to create a safe and beautifully designed dwelling, utilizing long-time Austin locals - Engineers, Contractors, and Architects. For over 17 years I’ve been a resident of 4200 Wilshire Parkway, I am very active in my community. I volunteer with the neighborhood association and have adopted Boggy Creek @ Airport Blvd. , and regularly clean the creek with my neighbors. I walk my dog everyday in the neighborhood and am engaged with the residents of Cherrywood. Prior to submitting the demolition application I went out of my way to inform my neighbors of my intentions, making my home plans available, and having the team available for questions. At the time of writing this letter, I am planning to host an open-house with the design and construction team as a courtesy to the neighborhood. My team is working to design and build a high-quality personal residence, not a speculative development for sale, that is sensitive to the neighboring context, trees, and the character of the neighborhood. This home was built in 1947 and has old inefficient windows, little insulation, rotten siding, doors that don’t fully lock (in fact an intruder broke into my bedroom two summers ago because of this issue), an HVAC system and ductwork that are over 30 years past their life expectancy with mold throughout the ducts, and a foundation that is in literal shambles, and doesn’t use best practices that we now have in 2024. A renovation of this home would be a significant and unreasonable hardship, resulting in too great of a financial burden to bare for a compromised end result, as there is a lack of valuable or potentially reusable materials, assemblies, and systems in the house, and due to obsolete building standards and construction practices that were utilized in 1947. A new home would greatly improve the existing conditions of the property, as well as improve my own health, safety, and welfare for years to come. The City of Austin has just completed a gorgeous improvement of the Pharr Tennis Center at Patterson Park, across the street from my home. I believe the improvements proposed at my property, supplemented by the recent improvements of the Pharr Tennis Facility, …
4200 WILSHIRE PARKWAYDEMOLITION PERMIT APPLICATIONHISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSIONJULY 3, 2024www.emadiarch.comemadi MEET THE TEAM: OWNER: Meghan Hughes PROPOSAL FOR TOTAL DEMOLITION FOR THE CONSIDERATION OF THE HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION: Please consider the approval for total demolition of the existing failing single-story, single-family home at 4200 Wilshire Parkway that is well beyond its reasonable lifecycle and to allow the design and construction of a new single-story, single-family home for the current resident, Meghan Hughes. This is not a speculative design to be built and sold, nor is it a rental or STR cash-flow property - it is a dream home. As evidenced by the numerous support letters provided as backup, Meghan has gone out of her way to openly inform the neighborhood of her intentions, and introduce the proposed improvements and team to her neighbors. A resident at 4200 Wilshire for over 17 years, Meghan intends to build a sensible new home keeping with the neighborhood’s charm, character, and qualities that drew her to it in the first place. The team is a collection of local, award-winning professionals, many of which are UT Austin graduates, long-time Austin residents, or native Austinites with extensive experience designing, engineering, and building thoughtful, considerate, and appropriate projects in Austin. The team is familiar with design, engineering, and construction in residential settings benefitted by large trees and nearby bodies of water. As part of the proposed demolition process, we will be reclaiming as much of the existing limestone as possible, to be elegantly reincorporated into the new home’s design. Additionally, we have coordinated with the Austin Fire Department and nearby Station #14 to donate the home for controlled training prior to demolition. This training opportunity will include new, advanced life-saving technology for AFD’s consideration. From AFD: “We want to thank you for working with the Austin Fire Department to provide an acquired structure for training. The work we can do in a real building is invaluable and prepares us to face the challenges of an active structure fire in the city.” The neighborhood was invited by Meghan to open-house that occurred on June 20, 2024 with this presentation and the Architect available. INTERIOR DESIGNER: Natalie Ammirato ARCHITECT & INTERIOR DESIGNER: EMADI - Ian Ellis, AIA, NCARB, RID & Jessica McCarty STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: Fort Structures - Sam Covey, PE & Paula Wright, PE GENERAL CONTRACTOR: Archive Properties - Ken Dineen & Jordan Sheftel TEAM INFORMATION emadi4200 WILSHIRE PARKWAYHistoric Landmark …
July 28, 2024 City of Austin Historic Landmark Commission Re: Case numbers: 2024-064449 PR (Demolition) 2024-085976 HR (New Construction) Dear Commissioners, I am writing, as President of the Wilshire Wood/Delwood 1 Neighborhood Association, in support of the request being made to the City of Austin Historic Landmark Commission and Planning Department by homeowner Megan Hughes and her architect Ian Ellis for the demolition permit and building permit needed to pursue their planned new home construction at 4200 Wilshire Parkway, Austin, TX. 78722. That address is within the boundaries of the Wilshire Wood/Delwood 1 Neighborhood. I support the two requests for the following reasons: • I have been briefed personally, while reviewing schematics, documents, etc. that the existing building to be demolished has structural foundation problems that preclude working with the existing slab and other structural elements on any restoration or as part of any new construction. • I have extensively reviewed Meghan’s plans for her new build, and conclude that Meghan and architect Ian Ellis have come up with a very neighborhood-sensitive design, as regards materials, scale, massing, and design compatibility – including height – with other homes on the street. Their design in fact follows recommendations in the City of Austin’s own, recently updated Historic Design Standards for new construction. I was on the Committee that wrote those new City of Austin Historic Design Standards, that were formally adopted by the City of Austin in November 2022. (I was invited to be on that committee by Cara Bertron, who ran that committee and who is still at the City in the Planning department. See page 3 of the document linked above, for the reference to my participation.) I’d comment in particular that the design proposed by Meghan and Ian follows the design prescriptions outlined in the chapter of the COA Historic Design Standards called “Residential New Construction” – specifically Section 5 of that chapter with guidelines for “Design and Style.” Please let me know if I can provide any more input or answer questions. Thank you, David Keene • President, Wilshire Wood/Delwood 1 Neighborhood Association (WWD1 NA) – also representing the Wilshire National Historic District. The WWD1 NA is officially registered with the City of Austin. • Section 106 Committee (that reviews project impact on historic properties and historic districts), Project Connect Austin, representing WWD1. I was appointed to this committee by the U.S. Department of Transportation. • Section …
