City of Austin Downtown Historic Resource Survey Public Comment Period: March 26th -May 9th 2025 Agenda 1. What is a Historic Resource Survey 2. Downtown Austin Historic Resource Survey 3. Survey Boundary 4. Project Timeline 5. Frequently Asked Questions 6. Opportunity for Public Comments What is a Historic Resource Survey? • A detailed, methodical process that highlights potential landmarks and historic districts by identifying older buildings and areas that help to tell the story of an important person, community, group or the city as a whole; or exhibit significant architecture or landscape design. • It ensures that historically significant resources are recorded, and results are available for public use. • Information-gathering tool only – does not include zoning changes Downtown Austin Historic Resource Survey Evaluates 45+ year old buildings in Downtown Austin as potential historic landmarks and historic districts. Replaces the original 1981 survey Conducted by HHM & Associates Identified and documented 1,964 resources Will contribute to HPO’s research for staff recommendations Will be available to citizens as a resource for completion of applications Survey Boundary Martin Luther King Jr., Blvd on the north, I-35 on the east, Lady Bird Lake on the south, and MoPac on the west Project Timeline Project Initiation 1st Public Meeting/Kick-off Event Fri. Oct. 13, 2023 Mon. Dec. 18, 2023 First Survey Draft to City Thu.Oct. 31, 2024 Public Comment Period Opens Online (will be available on PublicInput.com/Downtown AustinSurvey) Wed. March 26 2025 Public Comment Period Closes online (will be available on PublicInput.com/Downtown AustinSurvey) Fri. May 9, 2025 Fri. Nov. 17, 2023 Draft Fieldwork Mon. May 13, 2024 Fri. Jan. 31, 2025 2nd Public Virtual Meeting Second Survey Draft to City Wed. April 16, 2025 3rd Public Virtual Meeting (will be hosted via Zoom) Wed. July 2, 2025 4th Public Meeting (HLC Presentation) Frequently Asked Questions Q: Will this project change the zoning on my property? A: No. The survey will only make recommendations Q: Will this project change my property taxes? A: No. Q: If I want to designate my property based on recommendations, how will that work? A: If property owners choose to designate a landmark or historic district based on the recommendations, it will entail a rezoning process. The City of Austin Historic Preservation Office will help guide you through the process Q: If I choose to designate my property, will my taxes change? A: Maybe. Local landmarks currently are eligible for …
Historic Landmark Commission Applications under Review for March 5, 2025 Meeting This list does not constitute a formal agenda and is subject to change. A final agenda will be posted at least 72 hours prior to the meeting. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, email preservation@austintexas.gov or call Sam Fahnestock at (512) 974-3393. Historic zoning applications 1701 San Gabriel Street – Owner-initiated historic zoning. (Postponed to April 2, 2025.) Historic landmark and historic district permit applications 2504 Bridle Path – Culberson House – Addition, new doors and windows, new construction cabana, and new siding. (Withdrawn.) 4105 Avenue G – Hyde Park – Two-story addition, new roof, and restoration. 200 The Circle – Brunson House – Partial demolition, addition to the garage. National Register district permit applications 1003 Maufrais Street – West Line National Register Historic District – Addition and remodel, new construction cabana and pool. (Withdrawn.) 705 West Lynn Street – West Line National Register Historic District – Total demolition. 1412 Preston Avenue – Old West Austin National Register Historic District – Convert carport to garage, addition and remodel to front entry and rear. 503 E Annie Street – Travis Heights-Fairview Park National Register Historic District – Two new construction single-family residences with attached garage, covered patios, uncovered deck, and pool. 10. 1707 Alameda Drive – Travis Heights-Fairview Park National Register Historic District – Partial demolition, two-story addition. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 11. 12. 13. 1802 Northwood Road – Old West Austin National Register Historic District – New construction two-story rear unit. 2307 Windsor Road Unit #2 – Old West Austin National Register Historic District – Total demolition. (Postponed to April 2, 2025.) 1803 Travis Heights Boulevard – Travis Heights-Fairview Park National Register Historic District – Two-story addition, new carport, remove old carport. Demolition and relocation permit applications (all total demolitions unless otherwise noted) 14. 15. 16. 17. 2600 E Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard – 78702 4901 Ridge Oak Drive – 78731 932 E 53rd Street – 78751 1310 Haskell Street – 78702 Determinations of Eligibility for Partial Ad Valorem Tax Relief 18. …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS MARCH 5, 2025 HR-2025-014398 HYDE PARK LOCAL HISTORIC DISTRICT 4105 AVENUE G 5.0 – 1 PROPOSAL Reconstruct the front elevation and construct a second-story addition. PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS 1) Rebuild the original design of the front porch, including restoration of windows, siding, and porch finishes. 2) Replace deteriorated or missing siding on all elevations. 3) Construct a ground-floor addition at the rear right corner. 4) Construct a second-story addition, set back from the front of the original house. ARCHITECTURE DESIGN STANDARDS The house at 4105 Avenue G is a single-story Craftsman-style building with a wide, deep front porch that is supported at the corners by two ample posts clad in stucco. The porch and stair accessing it are both concrete in construction, likely a replacement or earlier wood systems. Two large front windows, which appear to be original, face the street at the back of the porch. Above, a front gable projects forward and features a wide attic window it its center, which also includes some decorative ends supporting the fascia. The Hyde Park Design Standards are used to evaluate projects within the historic district. The following standards apply to the proposed project: 1. General Standards 1.2: Retention of Historic Style Proposed design retains the original style and seeks to rehabilitate damaged elements, but only at historic locations. 1.3: Avoidance of False Historicism After taking consideration of guidance offered by ARC, the additions feature elements that are compatible is scale and design to the historic, but do not reach the level of replication or false historicism. A visual break in the form of a setback breaks up the roof slope at the front of the house. 1.4: Appropriate Treatment Options for Contributing or Potentially Contributing Structures Intact historic material is proposed to be retained rather than replaced. Reconstructed elements, such as wood siding, is proposed to be from new material that generally matches size and dimensions of historic. 3. Residential Standards: Single Family and Contributing Multifamily – Preservation and Restoration 3.1 Front of Houses Historic approach and dimensions are to be retained; second-floor addition is proposed to be located over 15 feet from the front wall at the back of the porch. 3.5 Roofs The existing roof pitch is maintained, and a visual break between the original and the addition is clear and legible from the street. 3.6 Chimneys There is no …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS MARCH 5, 2025 PR-2025-011991 BRUNSON HOUSE 200 THE CIRCLE 6.0 – 1 PROPOSAL Construct a rear accessory structure. PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS ARCHITECTURE Construction of a rear building that includes the remodel of an existing detached garage and construction of an office/gym. Construction of a lap pool at rear of property. Additionally, some site grading and minor landscape work. Constructed in 1917, the Brunson House is an excellent example of the bungalow style in the Fairview Park neighborhood. The house is set at the highest point of the lot, with a steep slope leading from the street to the porch stairs. A front porch is supported by two brick columns holding up a curved gable projecting from a larger gable spanning the width of the house. There is decorative woodwork at both gables, and at the right of the building is a side porch. Windows and front door are all intact and in good condition. DESIGN STANDARDS 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 at historic landmarks. The following standards apply to the proposed project: Residential new construction 1. Location New construction is at the rearmost section of the property. Given the grade changes on site, it will not be visible from the street. 2. Orientation Along with the existing garage that is proposed to be placed in service, the addition will orient towards the front and rear of the property. The rear is accessed by a private drive at an adjacent property, so it is not expected to be a main entry to the site. 3. Scale, massing, and height New construction is one story in height. Though it, along with the original house, are located at the highest area of the lot, it is to be minimally visible due to it being behind the main house. 4. Proportions The floor-to-ceiling height of the single-story addition is taller than the original house, but not to a degree that creates a stark disparity between the two. 5. Design and style The new construction is proposed to be largely glazed. After some revisions, the building was simplified to eliminate some more decorative elements that may have detracted from the original house 6. Roofs A low-slope roof is proposed to reduce visibility of the new construction, …
1412 Preston Ave. Objec�on to Proposed Building Permit. March 3, 2025 Candace & John Volz 1406 Preston Ave. Our objec�on to the proposed building permit is based on three concerns: 1)1412 Preston is a contribu�ng structure in our Old West Aus�n Na�onal Register Historic District (OWANRHD). The house is significant in that it was designed and built in the mid-1950s by Aus�n architect Kelly McAdams (1929-2014) and his wife Nancy Reeves McAdams (1929- 2005), also an architect. Kelly, based on his obituary, graduated “from the School of Architecture of The University of Texas at Aus�n in 1951. While s�ll a student, he passed the state architectural registra�on examina�on and became a registered architect at 21 years of age. A�er gradua�on, he worked in Aus�n as an associate architect with R. Gommel Roessner, FAIA, and as a partner with his wife Nancy R. McAdams, AIA, designing mid-century modern residences in Balcones Park, Pemberton Heights and Rosedale. As a staff architect with the firm of Page Southerland Page, he prepared the construc�on drawings of many Aus�n landmark buildings, including the Bergstrom AFB headquarters building (now the Airport Hilton Hotel) and the Headliners Club in the Westgate Tower. In 1968 he began work toward a master's degree in architecture and developed innova�ve computer methodologies for technical drawings and solar energy calcula�ons. He joined the faculty of the School of Architecture in 1970 and taught construc�on drawings and computer graphics un�l his re�rement from the University in 1988. For several years he served as Assistant to the Dean of Architecture with responsibility for advising students seeking admission to the School.” Nancy Reeves, from her obituary, “married Kelly R. McAdams of Aus�n in 1950, while both were seniors in the School of Architecture at The University of Texas at Aus�n. A�er gradua�ng in 1951, they prac�ced architecture together and as members of other firms. Pursuing an interest in research, Nancy returned to campus in 1961 and earned a Master of Library Science degree. In 1965 she began 20 years of service to the University, first as manager of the Architecture Library; then as Associate Director of General Libraries; as the Libraries project director for construc�on and occupancy of the Perry-Castaneda Library, Fine Arts Library and several other campus libraries; and finally as Associate Director of the Office of Planning Services, where she facilitated new construc�on and renova�on projects of all kinds for the Main and …
From: To: Subject: Date: Historic Preservation Office HR 25-007269 Monday, March 3, 2025 8:07:15 AM You don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Good morning, I am the homeowner of 404 E Annie Street, Austin Texas 78704. I'm writing in support of the project to be completed at 503 E. Annie. I have seen the plans, and they comport with the character of the neighborhood. I believe this project will be a great addition to the block. The owners of the property are respectful of the neighbors and the aesthetic of the area, and I have no doubt they will complete the project with care. Please don't hesitate to reach out if I can provide any other information. Best, Grace Matthews 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".
Historic Preservation Office HR 25-007269 Monday, March 3, 2025 8:58:20 AM You don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution From: To: Subject: Date: Hello, Thank you, Tecuan Flores I am the home owner at 1910 Newning, Austin, TX 78704, and I support the new construction project at 503 E. Annie. 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".
From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Historic Preservation Office Fahnestock, Sam 503 E. Annie Tuesday, March 4, 2025 9:31:27 AM You don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Hello, The applicant has been in touch with the neighborhood Historic Preservation Committee prior to the March 5 HLC meeting. We appreciate their proactive communication. They have shared their plans and sought feedback. We shared that we appreciate the set-back compatibility and smaller design of the two homes. The only feedback given mirrors City staff’s recommendations regarding a front gable addition and requesting any way to soften the contemporary design that distinguishes it from neighboring properties. Thank you – SRCC Historic Preservation Committee 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".
From: To: Subject: Date: Historic Preservation Office Please save 4901 Ridge Oak Drive Tuesday, March 4, 2025 1:56:11 PM [You don't often get email from https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] Learn why this is important at External Email - Exercise Caution Hello, I am a resident of the beautiful neighborhood in Austin that’s home to 4901 Ridge Oak Dr. This house has served as a local landmark for me personally and my family for 15 years as we have lived in this area. We drive by the home and think what else could be done with this mid century time capsule? To honor and uphold and preserve our past is paramount to honoring our land and what it means to us. Because I live here, I matter, my voice matters. Thank you for reading this. Thank you for considering preserving and relegating historic status to the house at 4901 Ridge Oak Dr. in Austin, Texas. Thank you in advance for preserving the beautiful home on the corner lot with all the beautiful trees it contains. What a treasure we have in that home in our beautiful neighborhood. I can only imagine what is possible for such a gem. Thank you for not demolishing it. All the best, Jenna Smith 3607 Lucas Drive Austin, TX 78731 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".
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. …
From: To: Subject: Date: Historic Preservation Office PR 25-008862 1310 Haskell Street Friday, February 28, 2025 8:28:12 PM You don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution To Sam Fahnestock: I have a property at 62 Navasota. It is a small business and home for a tenant. We renovated the current structure so as to keep with the character of the neighborhood. I am opposed to the demolition of yet another property even without historical significance. And given this structure does, I strongly oppose the demolition of this structure. Paula Hern 1707 Francis Ave. Austin, Texas 78703 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".
T E E R T S N N Y L T S E W 1130 SF 1350 SF 1345 SF 1240 SF 450 SF 450 SF 450 SF 450 SF FRONT UNIT AREA FIRST FLOOR FRONT PORCH GARAGE SECOND FLOOR CONDITIONED AREA SQ. FT. 1130 SF. 104 SF. 450 SF. 1,684 SF. 2,814 SF. REAR UNIT AREA FIRST FLOOR FRONT PORCH REAR PORCH SECOND FLOOR GARAGE SQ. FT. 1,345 SF. 64 SF. 142 SF. 1,551 SF. 450 SF. CONDITIONED AREA 2,896 SF.
1412 PRESTON HISTORIC REVIEW General Standards – 1.The proposed project removes intact historic material from the building’s exterior and replaces elements that do not appear to be deteriorated beyond repair. Replacement materials and elements do not look the same as the existing materials. - The proposed material replacements are necessary due to the deteriorated condition of the existing siding. While it may not have initially appeared beyond repair, upon closer inspection, the siding was completely rotted, with no existing substrate to support it. Additionally, the historic windows were sitting directly on the deteriorated material, further compromising structural integrity. - To ensure the long-term durability and historic character of the home, the rear siding will be replaced with new Hardie siding, matching the original in size, profile, and appearance. On the front façade, only the rotted siding will be replaced, using brick that matches the existing brick, while all existing brick will remain in place and be repainted. - This approach not only preserves the home’s architectural integrity but also creates a cohesive, historically compatible design that aligns with the character of Preston Street, where most brick houses feature fully bricked exteriors without the introduction of additional materials. The decision to unify the façade with brick is based on contextual precedent and ensures a low-maintenance, long-lasting solution in keeping with the surrounding historic streetscape. Preston brick homes examples a. b. C. d. 3. Roofs The proposed project replaces the shingle roof in-kind, but changes the roofline at the main façade. It adds decorative copper awnings that were not historically present. - The proposed roof work primarily consists of an in-kind replacement of the existing shingles, ensuring no changes to the overall structure except for necessary repairs. - The front porch roofline modification is a carefully considered design choice that enhances the openness of the porch while remaining scaled appropriately in relation to the existing garage hip, front house hip, and second-story hip. By introducing a gentle pitch that ties into the existing hip roof, the design maintains visual harmony with the home’s original massing. - Additionally, this modification is informed by contextual precedent, as it complements the rooflines and porch openings of other homes along Preston Avenue. The decorative copper awnings, while not historically present, are designed to be proportionate and compatible with the architectural character of the home, serving as an accent that enhances the overall aesthetic without disrupting historical …
GTT RESPONSE - Volz Rebuttal HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE: The claim that this home was designed by Kelly and Nancy McAdams appears to be unverified and inconsistent with available records. 1. City of Austin records and the DEED list the Zidd family as residents in 1959, and historical documentation identifies them as physicians, with no clear connection to the McAdams. It also indicates that the home was designed in 1950 for Christopher Claus Eckhoff, who later sold the property to the Zidd family. Deed timeline: - 1949 home was built for Eckhoff. He sold the house to the Zedds - 1959 the Zedds lived in this home and passed in 1968 - 1970 Cooper Raymond lived here till 1985 - 1985 Cooper Raymond sold the house to Kelly E+ Ina Ray McAdams (Kelly R+ Nancy’s parents/inlaws) - Kelly E and Ina Ray McAdams lived in this house for 3 years and sold it in 1987 to John and Janis Dailey - 1987 John and Janis Dailey owned the home and also used it as a rental property until 2024. - 2024 John and Janis Dailey sold the home to the Camerons Given these inconsistencies, it is important that any discussions regarding the home’s historical significance be based on factual evidence and verified documentation. Without concrete records linking 1412 Preston to the McAdams, the assertion that it is one of their surviving designs is speculative and does not provide a justified basis for additional historic designation considerations. At the end of the day, we are here to discuss bringing the home back to its intended use of a single family home. See the following: 2. Our approach to 1412 Preston Avenue is guided by principles provided by the city, engaging the city, respecting the existing with simple facts: ● We have followed the due process of applying for the permit Dec 19th, obtaining a demo permit Jan 29th, albeit with a minor mistake by the builder/subs which will (and has not) happened again. And we apologize for the mistake and miscommunication. ● We are committed to preserving the existing structure, ensuring that any modifications respect the original design while enhancing functionality. Our goal is to save the house and bring it back to its original intent as a single family dwelling, from a rental property. And doing this in a respectful fashion. ● The planned modifications aim to adapt the home for contemporary …
2600 E Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard Historic Landmark Commission 3/5/2025 1 Project Site 2 Holy Cross Hospital 3 Existing Structure Existing Structure Landmark Designation Criteria LDC 25-2-352: 1. The property must be 50 years old and must represent a period of significance of at least 50 years ago; and 2. The property must retain a high degree of integrity, as defined by the National Register of Historic Places, that clearly conveys its historical significance and does not include an addition or alteration which has significantly compromised its integrity. Landmark Designation Criteria The property must meet at least two of the below criteria: i. Architecture ii. Historical Associations iii. Archaeology iv. Community Value v. Landscape Feature i. Architecture ARCHITECURE CRITERIA: √ Embodies the distinguishing characteristics of a recognized Staff Report: architectural style, type, or method of construction; × Exemplifies technological innovation in design or construction; × Displays high artistic value in representing ethnic or folk art, architecture, or construction; × Represents a rare example of an architectural style in the city; × Serves as an outstanding example of the work of an architect, builder, or artisan who significantly contributed to the development of the city, state, or nation; × Possesses cultural, historical, or architectural value as a particularly fine or unique example of a utilitarian or vernacular structure; or × Represents an architectural curiosity or one-of-a-kind building. “Mid-century Modern design by Page, Southerland and Page, however, its context as part of a larger hospital campus is gone” ii. Historical Associations HISTORICAL CRITERIA: The property has long-standing significant associations with persons, groups, institutions, businesses, or events of historic importance which contributed significantly to the history of the city, state, or nation; or represents a significant portrayal of the cultural practices or the way of life of a definable group of people in a historic time. • Holy Cross Hospital (established in 1940) was the first hospital to allow Black doctors in Austin • The site received a Texas Historical Commission marker in 2021, however the main hospital has been demolished. • Original Holy Cross Hospital site on 12th St has marker. ii. Historical Marker – 1610 E 11th St. iv. Community Value COMMUNITY CRITERIA: The property has a unique location, physical characteristic, or significant feature that contributes to the character, image, or cultural identity of the city, a neighborhood, or a particular group. • Holy Cross Hospital history is the basis …
From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Historic Preservation Office In support of 4901 Ridge Oak Drive Historic Zoning Tuesday, March 4, 2025 2:51:45 PM You don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution To whom it may concern, As a registered architect and a resident of the Highland Park Balconies West neighborhood, I would like to voice my support for designating the house at 4901 Ridge Oak Drive as "historic." The home anchors the prominent corner at Crestway Drive and Ridge Oak Drive, welcoming residents as they find their way home each evening. Even before moving to this neighborhood eight years ago, I recognized this house as among the most important in the neighborhood. In part, it was 4901 Ridge Oak that made me want to live in this neighborhood. It embodies the mid-century optimism upon which the neighborhood was founded. The long, low roof forms nestle comfortably beneath the prominent heritage oaks, while the home itself steps back respectfully from the street - acknowledging that this is an acute intersection demanding big, sweeping turns and long sight-lines for safety. The material palette is simple and native to central Texas: undressed limestone, wood siding and glass. It's unobtrusive scale is friendly, welcoming and utterly without pretention. Healthy cities and neighborhoods evolve, and our neighborhood is no different. New development in the neighborhood less attuned to the long-low structures of the mid-century modern movement. Not every older home in the neighborhood warrants historic designation. However, it would negatively impact the neighborhood to lose this gem at 4901 Ridge Oak Drive. The house is significant in what it represents to the history of the development of Austin as it slowly migrated out from the city center. To allow un-restricted development of the site could endanger the heritage trees on site and, more significantly, make the sightlines around this corner more difficult - jeopardizing pedestrian and vehicular safety. Thank you for your consideration, Talmadge Smith, AIA 3607 Lucas Dr. Austin, TX 78731 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".
From: To: Subject: Date: Historic Preservation Office Demolition of 4901 Ridge Oak Drive Tuesday, March 4, 2025 3:54:31 PM You don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Hello I am writing regarding the potential demotion of the property at 4901 Ridge Oak Drive in Austin, 78731. I understand that there is a request to designate this a historic landmark based primarily on its relation to the Perry family in Austin and its mid-century modern architecture. Although the lot and overall appearance of the property is appealing, I do not believe that this house is unique, well-designed, or of high enough quality to receive a historic landscape designation. I’ve been inside and around that property on several occasions. The interior light fixtures, doors, cabinets and flooring appear to be standard builder’s grade - simple painted woodwork and carpeting typical of houses built before the 1970s. A previous owner described it as ‘living in a dorm’. The exterior of the house has had little to no maintenance for at least ten years. Without such maintenance, I’ve watched the exterior stone walls and deck slowly decay and fall apart. This house has been available for sale for some time with no buyers and has become an eyesore. I’m tired of looking out my window and watching it slowly decay further. Please approve the demolition permit. Thanks Melissa 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".
From: To: Subject: Date: Historic Preservation Office 4901 Ridge Oak Dr Tuesday, March 4, 2025 5:04:40 PM [You don't often get email from https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] . Learn why this is important at External Email - Exercise Caution I understand there is consideration for historic zoning for 4901 Ridge Oak Dr. As someone who lives in this neighborhood, I would oppose such zoning. This house is aesthetically ugly and does not add any historic value to the neighborhood. I understand it was at one time owned by a descendant of Commodore Perry, however we are all grandchildren of someone, that does not make us the historically important. I would urge the city to allow this structure to be replaced with a modern, safe house or - even better - two houses as we could use the increased density. Sincerely, Ben Pasmore 5109 Lucas Lane Austin, TX 78731 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".
