HomeMy WebLinkAboutLAUREL STREET LOFTS - PDP/FDP - 25-00 - CORRESPONDENCE - HISTORIC PRESERVATIONCommu 9 Planning and Environmental vices
Advance Planning Department
City of Fort Collins
Glen Colton, Chair
Planning and Zoning Board
City of Fort Collins
P.O. Box 580
Fort Collins, CO 80524
April 17, 2000
Re: Modification of Section 4.8(D)(1)of the Land Use Code, for the Laurel Street Carriage Apartments,
320 West Laurel Street
Dear Mr. Colton:
This letter is to support a modification of Section 4.8(D)(1)of the Land Use Code requested by Christopher
Ray, to grant a reduction in the minimum site area requirement. The Landmark Preservation Commission
and Historic Preservation staff believe a modification of the standard would best protect the character of
the two highly significant historic buildings on the site. It is far preferable to have new stand-alone
construction on the property than the alternative, which is alteration of the historic structures themselves.
This site contains two historic buildings. Both of these structures have been determined to be eligible for
designation as Fort Collins Landmarks, and for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. The
buildings are exceptionally significant as excellent examples of the work of Montezuma Fuller, Fort
Collins' most prominent early 20th century architect. They are also important for their association with
Roy Portner, the owner of the property for more than 73 years, and for whom Portner Reservoir is named.
Additionally, the buildings are representative of early twentieth century residential construction in Fort
Collins, and are good examples of the Tudor Revival architectural style.
At their April 12 meeting, the Landmark Preservation Commission gave a complimentary review of the
proposed three -unit apartment building, and considered its effect on the historic buildings. Additionally,
preservation staff has reviewed the conceptual plans against Section 3.4.7 of the Land Use Code, which
contains the standards for historic and cultural resources, and believes that the proposed construction meets
the requirements of this section. Historic Preservation staff and the Landmark Preservation Commission
both strongly support a modification of Section 4.8(D)(1) for this project. The proposed new construction
is endorsed as being not only equal to, but far better for preserving the architectural characterof these
significant structures.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincere
area McWilliams
Historic Preservation Planner
281 North College Avenue • P.O. Box 580 • Fort Collins, CO 80522-0580 • (970) 221-6376
FAX (970) 224-6111 • TDD (970) 224-6002 • E-mail: aplanning@ci.fort-collins.co.us