HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-13-2012 Historic Preservation CommissionIOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
Thursday, September 13, 2012
City Hall, 410 E. Washington Street
Emma J Harvat Hall
5:15 P.M.
REVISED AGENDA
A) Call to Order
B) Roll Call
C) Public discussion of anything not on the agenda
D) Certificate of Appropriateness
1. 1223 Seymour Avenue (new deck, new back door/opening, new basement egress
window)
2. 614 S. Governor Street (new deck; new back door/opening, replace basement windows)
E) Section 106 Review of elevator addition to 507 E. College Street
F) Report on Certificates issued by Chair and Staff
G) Subcommittee report on historic districts
1. Jefferson Street National Register Historic District
2. Melrose Neighborhood National Register Historic District
H) Discuss Annual Historic Preservation Awards
I) Consideration of Minutes for August 9 and August 29, 2012
J) Adjournment
Staff Report September 7, 2012
Historic Review for 1223 Seymour Avenue
District: Longfellow Historic District
Classification: Contributing
The applicant, Jon Ringen, is requesting approval for a proposed alteration and addition project at 1223
Seymour Avenue, a contributing property in the Longfellow Historic District The project includes the
construction of a new deck on the back side of the house, and a new back door from the house to the deck;
the project also includes the installation of a basement egress window.
A )p icable Regulations and Guidelines:
4.0 Iowa City Historic Preservation Guidelines for Alterations
4.1
Balustrades and Handrails
4.3
Doors
4.5
Foundations
4.13
Windows
5.0 Iowa City Historic Preservation Guidelines for Additions
5.2 Decks and Ramps
Staff Comments
This house is located on the south side of Seymour Avenue, across from Longfellow Elementary. It is a two-
story side -gabled Craftsman style house, built ca. 1920. Btulder/Architect unknown. While it does not have
the brackets and exposed rafter tails typically associated with this style, the Craftsman influence is evident in
the house form and design. The exterior includes textured concrete block foundation walls, wood clapboard
siding, doublehungwindows with wide proportions, and wood shingle/shakes on the roof. There is a full -
width front porch with wide square columns. In 2005, the Historic Preservation Commission approved the
design of the new wood steps and railings on the front of the porch. In 200,1, the Commission approved a
new garage, located on the alley.
The proposed project includes the construction of a new deck on the back side of the house, and a new, back
door from the house to the deck; the project also includes the installation of a basement egress window.
The proposed deck will be approximately 10' deep x W wide; material to be cedar. Steps down from the deck
are planned for both the east and west sides. The location on the back of the house, and the proposed size
and scale of the deck appear to meet the Guideline recommendations. More information is needed to
determine if the railings meet the recommendations for Balustrades and Handrails.
The proposed door will be painted fiberglass, with full -height clear glass, and integral shade. Proposed
product is Bayer Built - Acclimated Entry Systems. The door will be located in the south wall of a one-story
addition on the back of the house. An existing double -hung window will be removed and the opening will be
reconfigured for installation of the door. The Guidelines recommend wood doors, with wood screen doors.
As a substitute for wood, fiberglass doors must meet Guideline recommendations for durability and paint
finish. The Guidelines also recommend that new doors retain the style and appearance of historic doors, and
that the surrounding trim match the trim at other doors and windows on the house.
The proposed basement window will be a Jeld Wen aluminum clad wood casement window, sized for egress.
There will be a wide horizontal muntin to simulate the style of a double -hung window. The window will be
located in the southeast corner of the basement. More information on the window well is needed. 'fhe
Guidelines state that new window well material must appear similar to the existing foundation.
The guidelines for windows recommend that new windows match the type, size, sash width, trim, use of
divided lights, and overall appearance of the historic windows. Also recommended, adding new windows in
locations that are consistent with the window pattern of the historic house or houses of similar style. Metal -
clad solid -wood windows are acceptable. A change in window size may be allowed for egress requirements.
In Staffs opinion, the proposed work is allowed by the Guidelines, will not significantly alter the character of
the house, and can be approved on condition that specific product information and design details are
provided for final review by the Chair and Staff.
Recommended Motion
Move to approve a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project at 1223 Seymour Avenue, as presented in
the application, with the following conditions:
Provide material and design information for railings at new deck;
Provide material and design information for new window well at basement window;
Final review and approval by Chair and Staff.
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Application for Historic Review
Application for alterations to the historic landmarks or
properties located in a historic district or conservation district
pursuant to Iowa City Code Section 14-4C. Guidelines for
the Historic Review process, explanation of the process and
regulations can be tbund in the Iowa City Historic
Preservation Handbook, which is available in the PCD office
at City Hall or online at: www.icgov.org/HP]iaiidbook
For Staff Llse:
Date submitted:
❑ Certificate of No material Effect
❑ Certificate of Appropriateness
❑ Major review
❑ Intermediate review
❑ Minorreview
The IiPC does not review applications for compliance with building and zoning codes. Work must
comply with all appropriate codes and be reviewed by the building division prior to the issuance of a
building permit.
Meeting Schedule: The HPC meets the second Thursday of each month. Applications are due in the PCD
office by noon on Wednesday three weeks prior to the meeting. See attached document for application
deadlines and meeting dates.
Property Owner/Applicant Information
(Please check primary contact person)
El Property Owner Name:
Email Phone Number: (')
Address:
City:
Contractor / Consultant Name: pp
Email a °s°'€b gd..,�'ILI P f,f "Phone Number 'e�
Address: S'
City:'_ _ _.". r' S State: t Zip Code: - t
Proposed Project Information
Address:
State:
Zip Code:
Use of Property: _ Date Consu2rcted (if known): '
Historic Designation
(Maps are located in the Itistoric Preservation Handbook)
❑ This property is a local historic landmark.
OR
t
This Property is within a historic or conservation district (choose location):
' ❑
Brown Street Historic District
❑
College Green I listoric District
❑
East Collcgc Sunet Historic District
F,
Longfellow Historic District
❑
Northside Ilisloric District
�❑
Summit Street Historic District
❑
Woodlawn I listoric District
❑
Clark Street Conservation District
❑
Collcgc Hill Conservation District
❑
Dearborn Street Conservation District
❑
Governor -Lucas Street Conservation
District
Within the district, this property is classified as:
El Contributing 0 Noncontributing ❑ Nonhistoric
Application Requirements
Choose appropriate project type. In order to ensure application can be processed, please include all listed materials.
Applications without necessary materials may be rejected.
❑ Addition
(Typically projects entailing an addition to the building footprint such as a room, porch, deck, etc.)
❑ Building Elevations ❑ floor Plans ❑ Photographs
❑ Product Information ❑ Site Plans
Alteration
(Typically projects entailing work such as siding and window replacement, skylights, window opening alterations, deck or porch
replacemenu Construction, baluster repair, or similar. If the project is a minor alteration, photographs and drawings to describe the
scope of dre project are sutlicient)
❑ Building Elevations Photographs 0 Productlnformation
❑ Construction of new building
❑ Building Elevations ❑ Flom' flans ❑ Photographs
❑ Product Information ❑ Site Plans
❑ Demolition
(Projects entailing the demolition of a primary structure or outbuilding, or any portion of a building, such as porch, chinmcy,
decorative trim, baluster, etc.)
❑ Photographs ❑ Pioposalof Futmro Plans
❑ Repair or restoration of an existing structure that will not change its appearance.
❑ Photographs ❑ Product Information
❑ Other:
Please contact the Preservation Planner at 356-5243 for materials which need to be included with application.
Proposed Project Details
Project Description:
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Materials to be Used:
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Staff Report September 7, 2012
Historic Review for 614 South Governor Street
District: GovernorLucasStreet Conservation District
Classification: Contributing
'the applicant, Doug Ongie, is requesting approval for an alteration and addition project at 614 South
Governor Street, a contributing property in the Governor -Lucas Street Conservation District. The project
consists of a new deck on the back of the house, and a new patio door from the house to the deck; the
project also includes the replacement of two basement windows.
Applicable Regulations and Guidelines:
4.0 Iowa City Historic Preservation Guidelines fot Alterations
4.1 Balustrades and IIatidrails 4.3 Doors
4.5 Foundations 4.13 %Vindows
5.0 Iowa City Historic Preservation Guidelines for Additions
5.2 Decks and Ramps
Staff Comments
This is a simple Four -square style house, ca. 1920. It is two stories, with a hip roof and exposed rafter tails.
'There is a full -width front porch that has been enclosed. 'the exposed foundation walls are stucco covered,
the siding is a \vide vinyl replacement siding, windows are double -hung, the roof has asphalt shingles.
The proposed project consists of a new deck on the back of the house, and a new patio door from the house
to the deck; the project also includes the replacement of two basement windows.
The new, deck will be built with treated lumber; overall dimensions are in the range of 10' x 10' to 12' x 12'.
There will be railings on the sides, and a set of steps down to grade. The location on the back of the house,
and the proposed size and scale of the deck appear to meet the. Guideline recommendations. More
information is needed to determine if the railings meet the recommendations for Balustrades and Ilandrails.
The new door will be a sliding patio door, aluminum clad or fiberglass type. An existing double -hung window
will be removed and the opening will be reconfigured for installation of the door. in conservation districts,
the Guidelines allow new shding patio doors on the rear of a primary building, provided the opening is
trimmed to match the existing doors and windows.
The new basement windows will replace two existing windows on the north side that are damaged and failing.
Product information and window sizes are needed for review. Information on any proposed work at the
window wells is also needed.
The guidelines for windows recommend that new windows match the type, size, sash width, trim, use of
divided lights, and overall appearance of the historic windows. Metal -clad solid -wood windows are acceptable;
fiberglass windows may be considered for basement windows with moisture problems; and, in conservation
districts, vinyl or vinyl -clad windows may be used for replacement of basement windows.
In Staffs opinion, the intent of the proposed work is allowed by the Guidelines, although more specific
product information and design details are needed for final review.
Recommended Motion
Move to approve a Certificate of Appropr6teness for the project at 614 South Governor Street, as presented
in the application, with the following conditions:
• Provide material and design information for railings at new deck;
• Provide product information for new patio door;
• Provide product information for basement windows;
• Final review and approval by Chair and Staff.
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Application for Historic Review
Application for alterations to the historic landmtuks or
properties located in a historic district or conservation district
pursuant to Iowa City Code Section 144C. Guidelines for
the Historic Review process, explanation of the process and
regulations can be found in the Iowa City Historic
Preservation Handbook, which is available in the PCD office
at City [Iall or online at: www.icgov.org/HPhatidbook
For Staff Use:
e
Date submitted: (:,) / C) _/ ('•
❑ Certificate of No material Effect
❑ Certificate of Appropriateness
❑ Major review
❑ Interinediate review
❑ Minor review
The HPC does not review applications for compliance with building and zoning codes. Work must
comply with all appropriate codes and be reviewed by the building division prior to the issuance of a
building permit.
Meeting Schedule: '1'hc HPC meets the second 'Thursday of each month. Applications are clue in the PCD
office by noon on Wednesday three weeks prior to the meeting. See attached document for application
deadlines and meeting dates.
Property Owner Name:
Email: AD 'ec O
Address:
Property Owner/Applicant Information
(Please cheek pi inia y contact person)
c Phone Number: ("30)
r—
City: _�C Via.. C''t-'. State: Zip Code:
❑ Contractor / Cousnitant Name: �.l t fv\,
Email: _
Address:
City:
Address:
Use of Property: Lill'!%C"C oc' .-
Phone Number:(31k) '_3L 067t
State: Zip Code:
Proposed Project Information
Date Constructed (iTlmmvn): � { oZ �--�
Historic Designation
(Maps are located in the Hi.st,axl'm,a .ivabon Handbook)
❑ This property is a local historic landmark.
OR
❑ This Properly is within a historic or conservation district (choose location):
❑ Brown Streelltistnrie Disu-ict ❑ College Occn Historic District
❑ Past College Street Historic District ❑ Longfellow Historic District
❑ Northside Historic District ❑ Summit Street Historic District
❑ Woodlawn Historic District ❑ Clark Street Conservation Distict
❑ College Hill Conservation District ❑ Dearborn Street Conservation District
`1K„ Covemor-Lucas Street Conservation
District
Within the district, this property is classified as:
J2r,, Conhibuting ❑ Noncontributing ❑ Nonhistoiic
Project Description:
This project involves installing a sliding patio door on the east elevation (backyard) of
the house in place of an original double -hung wood window. The patio door will lead
to a newly constructed patio made of treated lumber. This project also involves the
replacement of two basement windows on the north elevation of the house. When
this house was a rental, the basement windows were used as egress for two
bedroom units. The basement no longer has a need for bedrooms and the window
frames are rotting because the windows were never properly installed. None of the
alterations or additions in the project will be visible from the street.
Materials to be Used:
Patio door: aluminum clad or fiberglass door
Deck: treated lumber with a wood railing and wood/metal vertical columns.
Basement windows: aluminum clad, fiberglass, wood or vinyl
Exterior Appearance Changes:
The patio door will replace an existing window, the deck will be a new addition and
there won't be a noticeable difference in basement windows because there are
window wells and the windows are below grade.
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OUTSIDE DWRICT
IOWA SITE INVENTORY FORM
CFN 259-1357
Survey ID
Number IOW-004
11/26/90
Database ID
Number
Location and Functional
Information
R & C
Number
1. Historic Name(s)
house
2. Common Name(s)
house
3. Street Address
507 E. College
4. City
Iowa City
Vicinity [ ] 5. County Johnson
6. Subdivision Original
Town
7. Block(s) 42 8.
Lot(s) cart of 4
9. Legal Description:
(If Rural)
Township Range Section
Quarter of Quarter
of
Description
Code
10. Historic Function(s)
Residence
11. Current Function(s) Community Mental Health Center
12. Owner Mid -Eastern Iowa Community Mental Health Center Phone # (319) 338-7884
Address 505 E. College City/State Iowa City, IA ZIP 52240
BHP Sources: Cty. Resource [] HABS [] Photo [) NR [] Tax Act [] Grants [] DOE [] R&C []
(Plat Map) (Sketch Map)
N
r min
"
0,=or1 ll
IRON
no Fe,
1 �,. . 6VnU1YVIM >1
(Source: Iowa City planning dept., 1994)
Porch posts and railings have been
replaced with decorative modern
cast iron. There is a large
modern addition on the rear of the
house.
Except for the addition, this
house is intact and well maintain-
ed.
Contributing structure
(Integrity Notes)
Van Buren
East College
i
ra
Roll/Frame 13 / 1 Photographer: Joyce W. Barrett
View: North Front, West Side: looking SE
Location of Negatives:
Property Characteristic Form - RESIDENTIAL
CFN 259-1402 Survey ID Number IOW--004 _
11/27/90 Database ID Number,
Street Address: 507 E. College St. City Iowa City County Johnson
gal Description: (If Rural) Township Range Section Quarter of quarter
of
Location Integrity: Original Site (OS) Moved (MV) Moved to Original Site (MO) OS
Endangered?: N or Y If yes, why?
Ground Plan: a. Building Shape(s) Rectangular b. Width 40' by Depth 83' in feet
Architectural Style/Stylistic Influences Key Stylistic Attributes Code
Queen Anne (free classic) Entablature molding, Palladian Window
Materials: Foundation Rough cast concrete block
Walls Narrow wood siding, mitred edges
Roof Metal standing seam
Number of Stories 2
Roof Shape Complex Gable —
Builder(s) Unknown Architect(s) Unknown
Original Construction Date c. 1900 Modification/Addition Dates:
Post 1950-1960 33 x 40' addition to rear of residence.
porch posts and railings have been replaced with decorative modern cast iron
Continuation Sheet [ ]
Significant Interior Components: Unknown
Continuation Sheet [ ]
Surveyor Comments: Good condition, decoration at top of gable
There is a large front bay with Palladian attic window transom over a large plate glass window.
Small vestibule window with leaded glass also.
This building is part of a 4 building complex owned by Mid -Eastern Iowa Comm. Mental Health.
Continuation Sheet [ ]
Sources:
ura Lovell, Manager.
Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps 1899, 1906.
City Assessor Records
Needs Further Study/Anomaly [ ] Continuation Sheet [ ]
Surveyor Matt Laufenberg Date 11/1/93
IOW-004
Architectural Significance
and Associated Context(s):
IOWA SITE INVENTORY FORM
EVALUATION SHEET
Historic and Architectural Resources in College
Hill, Iowa City, Iowa
Applicable National Register Criteria:
NRHP Eligibility: Individual
District:
Reviewed by/Date: J. Nash. 5/1994
[ ] A [ ] B [x] C [ ] D
( ] Yes [ ] No
[x] Contributing [ ] NonContributing
The architectural style of this house is typical of residences built in the College
Hill neighborhood at the turn of the century. Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps indicate it
was constructed after 1899 and before 1906. A prior survey dates it to 1902.
Because this house reflects the architectural patterns of the College Hill area, it
would be a contributing property to a district.
Continuation Sheet [ ]
Historical Significance
and Associated Context(s):
Applicable National Register Criteria: [ ] A [ ] B [ ] C [ ] D
NRHP Eligibility: Individual: [ ] Yes [ ] No
District: [ ] Contrib. [ ] NonContrib.
Reviewed by/Date:
Continuation Sheet [ ]
Prepared by: Jan Nash Date: May 1994
Affiliation: Tallgrass Historians L.C. Telephone: (319) 354-6722
Address: 931 Maiden Lane, Iowa City, IA 52240
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MEMORANDUM
Date: September 7, 2012
To: Historic Preservation Commission
From: Cheryl Peterson, Preservation Consultant
Re: Certificates of No Material Effect, Intermediate Reviews, and Minor Reviews
The Historic Preservation Handbook requires a report to the HPC at each meeting of any projects that have
been approved administratively. Below are the projects approved since the August report.
Certificates of No Material Effect — Chair and Staff review
935 F'.. College Street (repairs to wrap -around porch)
719 Ronalds Street (repairs to foundation walls, sidling, gable ornament, chimney, and rear porch)
821 N. Linn Street (install central air conditioning)
825 S. Seventh Avenue (window replacement on non -historic porch)
Intermediate Review — Chair and Staff review
437 S. Governor Street (demolish existing detached garage; build new detached garage)
208 Fairchild Street (repair front chimney; remove rear chimney; roofing replacement)
Minor Review — Pre -approved items — Staff review
807 Dearborn Street (window sash replacement)
520 Grant Street (window replacement)
Dear HPC Members
'This is a document the Melrose Neighborhood Association presented to the HPC February 14, 2008, listing
the reasons why the Melrose Neighborhood should be preserved. Since then, the UI has purchased some
more properties in the Neighborhood even though we have repeatedly been told they do not have plans for
turther purchases.
The most destructive action the UI has taken in our Neighborhood is very recent - the purchase of two more
houses H 0-11 and 13-14 Melrose Place) and the demolition of 10 houses, of which one (71 1 Melrose
Avenue) is on the National Register of Historic Places, to construct what was initially described as a
temporary surface parking lot. Previously the Ul had told the Neighborhood that we would be advised on
any pending UI actions in our Neighborhood but we were not informed of this huge impact on the
Neighborhood until the beginning of December 2011, whereas there is evidence that they knew of these
plans at least by mid -October. Had we had time to discuss this with the Ul, we feel confident we could
have found an alternative that would have been satisfactory for the UI and would not have involved
destruction of the Neighborhood -just as we did for the location of Hope Lodge; which the UI was
planning to place in our Neighborhood.
Thus the Neighborhood again asks that the HPC takes whatever steps they can to preserve this historic
Neighborhood that is the last vestige of its kind on the west side of the river.
Thank you:
Jean Walker
335 Lucon Drive
PRESERVATION OF THE MELROSE NEIGHBORHOOD
Presentation to the Historic Preservation Commission
For its meeting February 14, 2008
DRAFT
(Photos fo be added later)
Table of Contents
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Page
Reasons why the Meh-ose Non bos'h0od should be preserved
4
1.
Comments by architectural historian Marlys Svendsen, Spring 200d
q
3.
Continents from the neighborhood's nomination to the National Register of I-fistoric Places
4
3,
Comments from the 1992 Iowa City Ilistoric Preservation Plan
5
4.
Comments from the 1997 Iowa City Comprehensive Pla❑
6
5.
Comments from the 2002 Southwest District Plan
6
6.
Comments from the 2007 draft Iowa City Historic Preservation Plan
7
7.
The Neighborhood is a Vibrant Residential Community
y
8.
Loss of Tax Revenues for the City
9
9.
Loss of UI and City History
g
Reasons
why u, r2ent action needs to be taken
g
1.
The UI's mend of buying houses and ultimately destroying them
9
2.
Recent purchase of homes by the Ul mine interior of the Neighborhood
9
3.
Diminished vitality in the Neighborhood
9
d.
Planning of large UI buildings in the interior of the Neighborhood
10
5.
Sale of Neighborhood properties to the Ul
10
6,
UI assurances that did not materialize
10
7.
Missed oppottunitics
I I
S.
the UI's Statements/Actions conceming the Neighborhood and properties the UI pm'chases
12
9-
The unlevel playing field
12
Some of the ste s taken by the Neighborhood for preservation of the Melrose Neighborhood 13
What needs to be done to preserve the Melrose Neighborhood
Appendices
13
A.
A Map of the Melrose Neighborhood
16
B.
A Map of the Melrose Historic District within the Melrose Neighborhood
17
Maps of
Former Residential subdivisions in and near the Neighbmfiood
Areas for possible Ul Expansion
Zoning within the Neighborhood
C.
Letter from Marlys Svendsen, architectural historian:
Preliminary continents on why the Melrose Neighborhood should be preserved.
I g
D.
Significance of the Melrose Neighborhood's Historic District (Torn the National Register
of Historic Places nomination)
19
R.
Old Neighborhoods near the Melrose Neighborhood demolished by the UI
20
F.
Letter from Marlys Svendsen, architectural historian:
Historic houses on Grand Avenue Court now owned by the University of Iowa
24
G.
Letter fi-om the Melrose Neighborhood to the State Board of Regents concerning a vacant
lot in the Neighborhood to be purchased by the University of Iowa
25
H.
First letter from the Melrose Neighborhood to the State Board of Regents concerning land
use in the far West UI Campus us related to possible destruction of the Neighborhood
27
I.
Second letter from the Melrose Neighborhood to the State Board of Regents concerning
land use in the far West UI Campus as related to possible destruction of the Neighborhood
30
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
To: Members of the Historic Preservation Commission
From: Jean Walkcr, Representative, Melrose Neighborhood
and other members of the Executive Committee of the Meh'ose Neighborhood Association
Date: February 14, 2008
As the Melrose Neighborhood lixccutive Committee, we are asking for your assistance in our efforts to preserve the
Melrose Neighborhood in Iowa City. For the location of the Melrose Neighborhood, see Appendix A.
'File historic Mehosc Neighhorhood is at a crisis point as regards its survival. We need your help and support, and the
help and support of the Friends of Historic Preservation, City Council, City Staff (and any other person/group that can
help] if this Neighborhood is not to be swept away by the University of town, as has happened to many historic
subdivisions/mini-neighborhoods in areas adjacent to us. This Neighborhood is unique, the last of its kind on the west
Side of the Iowa River.
We have expended an enormous amount of time, energy, and in some cases money, in our attempts to preserve this
Neighborhood. These efforts included establishing the Melrose Historic District (see Appendix B) within the Melrose
Neighborhood and having that District listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Preservation ofthe Melrose
Neighborhood has, since at least 1991 been promoted in various documents produced by or for the City, but so far, most
of the goals set forth in these documents have been unmet and the City has not, in our view, acted decisively or effectively
to ensure the preservation of the Melrose Neighborhood. We are now preparing to ask the City to honor the sentiments
expressed in those various City documents to ensure the preservation of the Melrose Neighborhood. Therefore we are
asking the HPC to support the preservation efforts of Melrose Neighborhood and have suggested ways in which that
could be achieved (see the section: "What needs to be done to preserve the Melrose Neighborhood). We specifically ask
that the Historic Preservation Commission consider passing a resolution of support for preservation of the Melrose
Neighborhood, that can be forwarded to the City Council.
In the attached document, we have detailed:
1. The reasons why the Melrose Neighborhood should be preserved:
Its preservation has been recommended in various documents written by and for the City, at least since t992.
The following losses would be incurred if the Neighborhood is purchased and/or destroyed by the University of
Iowa:
Loss of approximately $250,000 in annual property taxes
Loss ofa vital ant community
Loss of UI and City history
Loss of unique architecture, topography and native animal -and plant species
?. The reasons why urgent action needs to be taken:
The UI has a history it) the areas adjacent to the Neighborhood of systematically burying up homes, one by one,
using them as housing for faculty, then for institutional use, then the houses have been demolished and institutional
buildings/roads built there instead.
The University has bought up many houses along Melrose Avenue. It is only fairly recently that it has started to buy
up property in the next tier of homes south of Melrose Avenue. Recently the UI proposed a large building in the
heart of the Historic District.
Recently the Neighborhood was assured by the UI that it did not intend to purchase further Neighborhood properties
but purchased several properties shortly after that assurance was given.
The UI has missed several opportunities to expand in other areas that would not negatively affect the Neighborhood.
Within the last six years, the UI has made statements such as: "In 30 years, we'll have that Neighborhood" and "We
don't buy the properties for the buildings, we buy them for the land, and when the buildings deteriorate, we pull
them down and build new buildings."
The playing field is not level, for example:
The UI is not bound to preserve any historic buildings even though it might be on the NRHP or under local
restrictions.
The Uf has much more purchasing power than the Neighborhood.
The UI, being an institution, can take a very long-term view and outwan individuals concerning purchase of
Neighborhood properties.
REASONS WHY TIRE MELROSE NEIGUBORIlOOD SHOULD BE PRESERVED
Including recommendations concerning preservation of the Melrose Neighborhood written by end for the City.
1, _ Coninieuts by architectural historian Marlys Svendsen, Spring 2004
In the Spring of 2004, the Melrose Neighborhood asked the architectural historian, Marlys Svendsen, to comment
concerning the history of the Melrose Neighbmhood and why it should be. preserved. In a letter dated April 31 2004 (see
Appendix C), she described her preliminary observations, including the following:
"Based on my nearly 30 years of work as an historic preservation professional, including 13 years working on various
Iowa City projects, I anh confident in saying that the Melrose Historic District is a neighborhood worth preserving. It his
a strong sense of ncighhorhood identity and retains an intact collection of architecturally and historically significant
houses. Its historical significance derives from its association with the University of Iowa hospital complex and athletic
buildings. Put simply, through the years the people who researched, healed, coached, taught and worked north of Melrose
Avenue, frequently lived south of Melrose. "Though this physical proximity has been difficult to manage at times in recent
years, it is part of what makes the neighborhood special and worth preserving."
"As you are aware, this district is cn'rently being considered for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places.
The Melrose Historic District developed in several stages beginning in the late 19" century and extending through the
post -World War II period. Its greatest growth was associated with the establishment ofthe University of Iowa General
Hospital and the creation of the buildings for the University's athletic programs during the late I920s. Staff and faculty
for these facilities needed housing, and the mixture of small and Large lots available in Custei's Addition and the
Brookland Park Addition located south of Melrose Avenue and north of Brookland Park provided ideal home sites ."
"(Eighty) years later, the Melrose Neighborhood tells the story of this important period in the history of the University of
Iowa, its hospitals, and its athletic programs. Architeetn ally, the neighborhood retains an important collection of diverse,
architecturally significant houses and small cottages. A handful of older residences along Melrose Avenue, a state road
laid out in 1853 to connect Iowa City to points west, convey the history of the area before the West Side Campus of the
University was established. The balance of the neighborhood contains well-preserved examples of Craftsman Style
bungalows, Georgian and Colonial Revival Style houses, and English Period Cottages located along narrow streets and
picturesque drives."
"The Melrose Neighborhood's historic associations with the University of Iowa, its hospitals and athletic programs, and
its collection of late 19" century and early 20"' domestic architecture certainly make it worth preserving. National
Register designation of the proposed Melrose Historic District will strongly reinforce the neighborhood's special
character. In so doing, residents of Iowa City as well as visitors to Tile community and the University of Iowa Hospital
will have a heightened awareness of its historic interest and aesthetic charm. Designation of historic districts in other
neighborhoods in Iowa City as well as in other areas of the county, has led to their preservation and stabilization.
National Register designation will encourage the same positive future for the Melrose Neighborhood."
2. Comments from the neighborhood's nomination to the National Register of Historic Places
The majority of the Neighborhood was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in December 2004. That means
that the histm'ic significance of the Neighborhood has the approval not only of the architectural historian who prepared the
nomination, but of a committee of Iowa scholars and professionals in the fields of history, architecture, archaeology, and
community planning (the Iowa State Nominations Review Committee), the State Historical Society of Iowa staff historian
and architectural historian, and the National Park Service's National Register staff reviewers.
According to the NRHP nomination, the Melrose historic District is significant under Criteria A [historical event or role],
B [significant individual], and C [architecture]. The nomination states, in summary, that:
"the Melrose Historic District is locally significant under Criteria A and C. Under Criterion B the District has both local
and state level significance." (See Appendix D for details of the Neighbmrhood's significance.)
"Under Criterion A it derives significance from its association with an important cra of residential development along and
south of Melrose Avenue in Iowa City adjacent to the State University of Iowa West Side Campus, The Melrose Historic
District developed in several stages beginning in the late 19th century and extending through the post -World War II
period." (Side note: The Neighborhood represents five major waves of building, beginning in the 1850s.) "Its greatest
growth was associated with the establishment of the State University of Iowa General Hospital and the creation of
4. Comments from the 1997 Iowa City Comprehensive Plan
"Description of Southwest Planning District
The Southwest Planning Dish ict contains environmentally sensitive features including steep slopes, strewn corridors,
and potential wetlands. According to the Sensitive Areas Ordinance these feahucs wilt need to he considered
carefully as development is planned for these properties." (Side note: The Melrose Neighborhood has various
shearns, and a❑ exteusivo, wooded ravine)
"Unique features of the Southwest Planning District
...Another feature of the Southwest Planning District that requires consideration is the boundmy between The
University of Iowa campus and private residential development in the northeast portion of the planning district,
Coordination between the University and the City will be important as this portion of the University campus
experiences further development."
"Open Space
With the exception of Miller/Orchard, Brookland/Roosevelt and West High, the neighborhood open space districts of
west Iowa City have adequate open space..... There is potential to expand Brookland Park in the Brookland/Roosevelt
district." (Side note: Brookland Park is the Melrose Neighborhood park.)
5. Comments from tile 2002 Southwest District Plan
"This (Melrose) neighborhood has narrow streets, and a wooded, rugged character that makes it intimate and
distinct."
"Brookland Park..... provides both active and passive recreational opportunities for the surrounding Melrose and
Miller -Orchard neighborhoods."
"PLANNING PRINCIPLES
During the planning process, citizens discussed what was most valued in the Southwest District and those aspects that
could use improvement ..... 'Ilie following citizen -generated principles provide the underlying fi'amework for the plan:
Citizens stressed the importance of providing a diversity of housing in the District, including homes for first
time buyers, mid -sized homes, estate -style homes, townhouses, condominiums and apartments. 'File appropriate
design and mix of housing types is important to the creation of livable neighborhoods.
• Citizens emphasized the importance of preserving and stabilizing close -in, diverse neighborhoods. Citizens
expressed a desire for better enforcement of existing zoning and nuisance laws and a re-examination of existing
zoning patterns in the older parts of the District. There is also concern about the encroachment of university
uses into the neighborhoods south of Melrose Avenue.
Design issues are important to citizens. There was a desire expressed to establish design standards for higher
density uses so that these uses would be well integrated into existing and fature neighborhoods. Variety in
building design is a desirable goat. Monotonous repetition of the same building along a street fiontage or in a
neighborhood should be discouraged. Citizens emphasized that buildings should be designed to be sensitive to
the environment, the topography, and the surrounding development."
"The Melrose Neighborhood is an older single-family neighborhood located directly adjacent to the University of
Iowa, which has a significant influence on development in this area... _The University has expressed a need to
expand the law school facilities and find a suitable area for new dormitory space. The University is acquiring
property in the area along Melrose Avenue as it comes op for sale. There is concern on the part of the residents living
in the Melrose neighborhood about the University's long-term expansion plans. As property is converted to
university uses, it will make this area less viable as a residential neighborhood. In addition, there is a strong
community interest in Iowa City to preserve historic properties and there are a number of historically significant
homes in this area. It will be difficult to balance the needs of an expanding university with the needs of the residents
over the next twenty years. The City has little regulatory power over the University since it is a state institution.
However, it is an important goal of the City to preserve and stabilize existing residential neighborhoods close to
the University and the downtown Achieving this gout will help to prevent urban sprawl along the edges of the
community, reduce commute times provide a diverse residential community, preserve historic resources and
suppo t the vitality of the City's central business district Efforts should be made to encourage the University
to work more closely with the City and the surrounding community as it develops future expansion plans In
"Objective 6: Participate in a forum for discussing neighborhood/University issues related to historic preservation."
Objective 7: lnvestigatc establishment of a University housing subsidy program tp encourage faculty and administrators
to reside in neighborhoods near the campus. (Side note L Historically, Ul faculty and administrators have always lived in
the Melrose Neighborhood. Side note 2: Such a subsidy program would not necessitate the purchase of neighborhood
properties by the University.)
Objective 8: Encourage the University to establish a policy that supports efforts to preserve historic residential
neighborhoods adjacent to its campus."
The draft plan reiterates much information and many recommendations fimn the 1992 Historic Preservation Plan. Some
of the Objectives listed for the Melrose Neighborhood are:
"I. Retain designation of Mclrosc Historic District as a National Register district."
113, In the mid term (within two years), encomage designation of the Meltose Historic District as a local historic
district."
Consider establishing a regular event _.. m order to invite neighbors and Iowa City residems_tp share the
history of the Melrose I-iistoric Disn ict Such an event will help establish the importance of the district's history in
the community and For University planners." (Side note: the Melrose Neighborhood has already, in 2007, held an
event with a historic style show and plans to hold an event in 2008 with historic cars to highlight that the
Neighborhood is, for the most part, an early aUtOrnobllC suburb developed between World War 1 and World War I1
and to showcase its unique, historic garages.)
"6. Where possiblc,.retain expansive settings of older residences located alon,_Melrose Avenue including wide and
deep lot dimensions, deep set back and landscaping.
7. Because of the proximity of major activity nodes for the University (hospitals and spots venues), the Melrose
Ilistoric District is at greater risk than rnost campus -adjoining residential neighborhoods. It also has a high
potential for serving as a vital partner for the University by stabilizing the southern edge of its campus, providing a
source ofaffordable, well preserved housing. and telling the story of the University Hospitals and some of the
University's most prominent sports figures. To reduce [he risk for the Melrose Historic District, improved
communication and continued joint planning needs to take place, Joint issues to be addressed include: a) affirmiuo
Melrose Avenue as the long-term boundary between the Melrose Historic District and the south edge of the
University carnpus�h) develo pin *Ujoint efforts to sustain the availability of well -maintained, owner -occupied
housing in the Melrose Historic District and e) improving the visual relationship between historic residences and
parking areas. -- ---
8. Spotlight the neighborhood's history loi University and Ilospital visitors by developing a walking tour, beginning
at the University Hospital complex, which includes Melrose Avenue's historic residences, post -World War 1
residential enclaves, BFookland Park, etc." (Side note: the Melrose Neighborhood has already, in 2004, held a
publicized walking tour in the Neighborhood, led by architectural historian Marlys Svendsen. tlowever, a
permanent self -guided walking tote needs to be developed.) "Complete the historic signage program planned by
the Melrose Neighborhood Association." (Side note: the Neighborhood obtained a grant in 2005 from the Public
Art Advisory Committee for this project.)
9. The University of In va 2006 Campus Master Plan identified National Register listed properties that it owns as
heritage properties that should be protected.. ..Though this policy was established for historic resources within the
current campus, it should also apply to properties owned by the University, but located "off -campus" in a National
Register Historic Dishict such as the Melrose Historic District. An effort should be made ta_cngage Universih�
representatives in discussions for specific historic resources in the Melrose Historic district,
Por example a comprehensive reuse study should he under taken for the Caywood Apartment Building in order to
investi _ate—histot re preservation stratetries that could make it a vital part of the University campus. A task force
including representatives of the Melrose Historic District could assist the University in investigating potential use
of federal investment tax credits to finance rehabilitation through the sale of the credits to for -profit entities.
Planning assistance from a group of specialized architects and planners expel enced in academic campus reuse
issues and federal historic tax credits should be sought. Reuse options such as the sale of condominium residential
units to Hawkeye Football supporters could be investigated. A planning effort for the_Caywood Apartment
Building could serve as a model for future efforts to plan for historic resources in the Melrose tlistoric District with
both a University and neighborhood/community interest.
10, Pursue the Communication and Neiihood Stabilization Steps on page 64."
9
Lenin, were determined not to sell their homes to the Ul. The other resident looked out for Leola as she became eldorly.
However, after the untimely death of that resident, whose heirs lived out of [own, that home was purchased by the III. So
Leola found herself living alone on a Street with no other residents, Surrounded by houses used for institutional purposes.
So, even though she did not want to, she decided she needed to move. Of course no individual was now likely to buy her
house as it was surrounded by institutional buildings, so the UI acquired it, as well. In the last few years the UI has had a
plan to denolish the houses on Grand Avenue Court and build more, probably large, institutional buildings in their place.
'this could be [he long-term fate of the Melrose Neighborhood if the U1 continues to buy its properties, and the last vestige
of the neighborhoods on the west side of the lowa River with buildings dating from the mid -I ft00s would vanish for ever.
Marlys Svendsen, the architectural historian who prepared the nomination of the Melrose Historic District to the NRHP,
did a preliminary survey of the houses on Grand Avenue Court and said, in part:
"The houses were built diving the first decades of the 20ai century and are good examples of vernacular house forms and
architecnrral styles then gaining popularity, Together, the (houses) provide a glimpse of homebuilding at its best between
the World Wars— creative, solid, and richly varied." (See Appendix F for her full report.)
"Thus these houses are of sirnhar vintage and interest as those in a large part of the Melrose Historic District and would
have been worthy of preservation, in [he Neighborhood's opinion.
4. Planning of large UI buildings in the interior of the Neighborhood.
J hough the Ul has purchased houses in the Melrose Neighborhood, so Jar none of them have been torn down and/or
replaced by a new institutional building. However, in 2004, the UI planned to build a Hope Lodge in an open area behind
one of the propertics they own. This building, designed to accommodate 30 to 35 cancer patients and family members,
would have been equivalent to placing a fair-sized motel in the center of the Melrose Neighborhood. When the UI called
a Neighborhood meeting to tell the neighbors that the Lodge would be built there, the neighbors were not told of other
alternate sites that had been considered. I lie Neighborhood suggested that the Lodge instead be built adjacent to the
Ronald McDonald House, as this site would address UI objectives of potential integration with the Ronald McDonald
House as regards "management services, transportation, purchasing, and maintenance services" (quoted from a UI
document, presented to the Campus Planning Committee Land Use Subcommi[tec, dated January 12, 2004). The Ul Said
that they had not considered the site adjacent to the Ronald McDonald House as they wanted to keep that site for a
"signature building". The Neighborhood felt that the plan to place the Lodge in the center of the Melrose Neighborhood,
especially when a superior site was available, showed lack of concern for the integrity and history of the Neighborhood.
5. Sale of Neighborhood properties to the III
Some neighbors, when they want to sell their properties, go straight to the Ul without advertising their properties for sale,
as they feel the Ul will buy their homes immediately and at a high price due to the superior purchasing power of the UI.
This presents a difficulty in allowing people, rather than an institution, to purchase the homes. I his problem is
exacerbated because the properties arc usually purchased first by the Ul Facilities Corporation and then the Regents are
asked if the U I can purchase them. By that time, it is extremely unlikely that the Regents will refuse the UI's request.
A case in point is the sale of a vacant lot, adjacent to 31 1 Melrose Court. This lot is of crucial importance in that it backs
up to the open area behind 609 Melrose Court (that had been earmarked by the UI for the location of the Hope Lodge).
The lot was owned by the owners of 311 who kept it for many, many years re�cisely to discourage inappropriate
development in the open area and to avoid it being used as access to the open area (as it had been in the distant past),
because such use had been/would be so disruptive of, and unpleasant for, the Neighborhood. When the owners moved
and sold their house and the lot, they took care to sell it as a combined parcel, and to at non-Ul entity. Unfortunately that
new owner sold the lot to the UIFC.
When it was realized that the Ul was to request permission to purchase the lot, the Melrose Representative wrote a letter
to the Regents (sec Appendix G) asking them to consider that the lot not be used for football parking or access to the
open area (which the Ul had stated as the use to which it would he put) and that the Neighborhood be given [he
Opportunity to discuss purchase of the lot from the UI Facilities Corporation, so that, the integrity of the Historic District
would be preserved. At the Regents meeting in Ottumwa, in the presence of the Neighborhood Representative, and
without comment on the matter from the Regents, they voted to allow the Ul to purchase the lot.
6. Ul assurances that did not materialize
The unfulfilled assurance that the house on Lucon Drive would only be used for faculty housing has already been
mentioned. A more generic assurance concerning the purchase of Neighborhood homes by the Ul was given to the
As[ stated in my previous letter, such long-term planning should be done in collaboration with the City of Iowa City and,
in the case of residential areas such as the Melrose Neighborhood, with input from representatives of those residential
areas.
I loot: forward to your response to this and my previous letter."
See Appendix f for complete letter.
No response was received, so a fill letter was sent four months later (to all recipients of the I'll St letter) that said in pal
"Even though current plans locate the new Recreation Facility on the cast side of Campus, thus opening up space in the
far west campus for the University's future expansion, we once again ask you to carefully consider the planning for that
far west campus in relation to the University's long-term expansion needs. This is of particular importance in that any
destruction of the Historic District within the Melrose Neighborhood to meet those expansion needs will be strongly
opposed."
See Appendix J for complete letter.
No response was received.
8. 'Pile UI's Statements/Actions concerning the Neighborhood and properties the Ul purchases.
At a 2003 Traffic Study meeting concerning the modified Melrose Avenuc-Grand Avenue one-way system, at which the
Melrose Representative was a participant, an official, who is now involved in purchasing properties for the Ul, said "In 30
years, we'll have that Neighborhood". This statement can be interpreted as showing a total disregard for the wishes of the
residents and property owners of the Neighborhood, quite apart from the wishes of those Iowa Citians who care about
preservation of the City's and the Ups history.
At a meeting of the Ut Campus planning Committee, which the Mehose Representative attended, an official said "We,
don't buy the properties for the buildings, we buy them for the land, and when the buildings deteriorate, we pull them
down and build new buildings.'
In 2004, when the nomination of the Melrose Iistodc District carve before the City Council for their approval, a Ut
official said that the Ul supported historic preservation, but at the same time was questioning the NRIIP nomination.
the Cannon -Gay house, located across Melrose Avenue from the Melrose Neighborhood and built in 1884, was placed on
the NRHP by the owner specifically to preserve it. The house was purchased by the Ut, who intended to remove later
(historic) additions to the house and move the house to use the site for another building (though City officials at the time
indicated a preference to leave it in place). When challenged concerning the preservation of the house, intact, in its
historic location, the Ul decided to leave it in itS current location with the option of still being able to move it at a later
date.
In 2002, the UI started building the Gerdin Athletic Learning Center too close to the public street, Grand Avenue Court,
without the City Council's permission. This resulted in the City Council subsequently vacating Grand Avenue Court
(over objections from the Melrose Neighborhood) and selling it to the Ul (even though the Council originally decided to
have a traffic study in that area completed first.)
9. The unlevel playing field
The Ul is not bound to preserve any historic buildings even though it might be on the NRIIP or under local restrictions.
Therefore, the Melrose Historic District is not/would not be protected by its current NRIIP status or if it were placed
under local restrictions. Current individual landrrrark houses in the Neighborhood, including those dating to the late
1800s, also are not protected f"om destruction by the UI.
The Ul has much more purchasing power than the Neighborhood.
The Ul can purchase homes without the knowledge of members of file Neighborhood (as can individuals). However, once
the property becomes institutionalized, it is unlikely to become privately -owned again, and is vulnerable Lo destruction
even with historic preservation protections in place.
The Ul, being an institution, can Cake a very long-term view and outwait individuals concerning purchase of
Neighborhood properties.
13
finally act decisively and honor the sentiments expressed in the various City documents concerning preservation of the
Melrose Neighborhood.
This [natter is of the utmost lrgeneV and iu fact should have been addressed decisively years ag-o. The destruction
of the Ncighborhood is gradual and insidious, and the purchase by the III of homes in the interior of the
Neighborhood should act ns a wake-up call to address the matter without delay further apathy and
procrastination concerning this matter will result in the loss of this vibrant, historic Neighborhood.
Therefore the Ncighborhood requests that the I-IPC pass a resolution of support, to be forwarded to the City Council,
concerning the preservation of the Mehuse Neighborhood (including supporting the concept of a local dishict) and that
the H11C recmnmcnds to the City that:
1. the City makes a strong public staremenl to the UI, to the City's Planning Department, and to the citizens of Iowa
City that the Melrose Neighborhood is worth preserving. In doing so, the City would be honoring statements made
in various of its publications, including the 1992 and draft 2007 Historic Preservation Plans prepared for the City
and the HPC.
2. The City states [hat the UI boundaries should be those that the UI outlined in their 1998 Campus 'Master -plan. In this
document, [tic southern HI boundary in the Melrose Neighborhood is Melrose Avenue from the bridge over the
railroad tracks at University 1-leights, to cast of Lucon Drive (except for the Caywood Apartment building). 'I'hc
boundary then moves south to'vlyrtle Avenue to include the wooded ravine and the Myrtle Avcnue parking lot.
3. The City states that the UI should cease purchasing further properties in the Melrose Neighborhood, particularly [lie
Achose Historic District. (A possible exception might he Melrose Place, which is outside the Melrose Historic
Disu let and which is almost entirely owned by the UI.) A precedent for this has been set by the University of
????????? This is crucial as past experience has shown that properties purchased by the HI are often destroyed and
[hough this might not happen in the near future, purchase ofpropertiesby the UI allows for such destruction in the
distant future, even if the properties are within a local historic district. By no[ purchasing any further properties in
the Neighborhood, the UI would be honoring what it has been saying (particularly recently) to the Neighborhood.
4. The City states that the UI should not destroy any of the Melrose Ncighborhood properties that it owns, particularly
in the Melrose Historic District, but to keep them up in the manner befitting their historic value. In not destroying
the historic properties, the UI would be honoring its statements that it is for preservation of historic buildings. In
addition, the UI should make an inventory of its historic buildings (as recommended in the City's Historic
Preservation Plan), and include in that inventory historic properties they own in the Neighborhood. (The
Ncighborhood Representative has already suggested to Rod I.elmertz to include historic buildings owned by the UI
that are in city neighborhoods in the next edition of his and John Scott's recent book on UI architecture entitled Jhc
Universily of Iowa Guide to C'amjmr Architecture and in presentations on Campus Architecture).
5. The City states that the UI should use the properties they own in the Neighborhood (particularly those newly
acquired) as residences, e.g„ for faculty/staff housing, which the UT has told the Neighborhood is the reason for
purchasing such properties. This would apply in particular to any properties south ofthen properties linin1- Melrose
Avenue. This would keep up the integrity of the Neighborhood as a residential area and avoid the dead areas the UI
has created in other parts of the Neighborhood.
6. The City states that the III should direct any expansion in the area to the following areas/in the following ways. The
University will probably always need to expand and needs to look to other areas for their long-term needs, rather
than destroying a vibrant residential neighborhood.
a). In -filling fit the U IIC-athletics area (the area bounded by Melrose Avenue, Riverside Drive, I Iighway 6,
First Avenue) and the Iowa Interstate Railroad). The area should be examined closely for opportunities Ibr
expansion. Within the last year, an official of [he UIHC has told the Melrose Representative that the UIHC
intends to in -fill and build upward to accommodate its expansion needs, rather than encroach in the Meh-ose
Neighborhood. An article in the Iowa City Press -Citizen (02/15/05) stated that UI expansion plans are
focusing on the core of campus and not on sprawl. The Neighborhood commends the U] for this
commitment.
One location in this area which could be used Cot new construction is the surface parking lot west of the
Gerdin Athletic Learning Center. (This site .should not be used for another parking ramp as that would
constitute a missed opportunity for expansion and would alsojcopardize the modified one-way stree[system
in the area.)
b). The north side of the UII-IC. In a preliminmy survey of this area, the architectural historian, Mal Ivs
Svendsen, who prepared the nomination of the Melrose Historic District to the NRHP, concluded that "the
substantial majority of buildings along this .stretch of Newton Road would not, be, eligible for the (National
Register of Historic Places) tither individually not could this area be considered an historic district because
15
APPENDIX A
A Map of the Melrose Neighborhood
QuickTime"O and a
TIFF (LZW) decompressor
are needed to see this picture.
17
Former Residential Subdivisions In and Near
the Melrose Neighborhood
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19
Zoning within the Melrose Neighborhood
21
APPENDIX 1)
Significance of the Melrose Neighborhood's Historic District (from the NRHP nomination)
National Register of 1-listoric Places :Nomination for the Melrose Historic District
Section 8, pages 6 K. 7:
"'Ilie Melrose Historic District is locally significant under Criteria A [historical event or roles, B [significant individual],
and C farchitecture].
Under Criterion A, the Mclrose Historic District derives significance under the category of "Community Planning and
Development." Resources within the District draw attention to the growth of Iowa City's West Side both prior to 1900
when the houses along Snook's Grove Road (Meh'ose Avenue) comprised a sparsely settled country neighborhood and to
the period following World War I, and extencling through World War H when the neighborhood transitioued to an early
automobile suburb- Under the category of "Education" the District is closely associated with the development of the state
University of lowai s West Side Campus, which included its tcachinu hospital and clinic complex and its athletic facilities,
all built north of Mclrose Avenue in the decades following World War 1. This period was si�.)nificant for the University's
Ill imary education mission because these years saw a five -fold increase in student enrollment and a major expansion in
physical plant. The provision of housing for University faculty mcmbers, physicians, administrative staff, and students
was a critical private -sector initiative that supported the West Side Campus development between and following the
World Wars,
Under Criterion 13, the Melrose Historic Disa ict is significant for its association with the lives of prominent Iowa City
residents, several with affiliations to the State University of Iowa. Byron L Lambert, head of the Department of Civil
Engineering at the University was an important Iowa engineer whose career included the design of steel stadiums,
bridges, hydroelectric dams and plants, and water systems throughout the state. Floyd Nagler gained prominence as the
founding director of the SUI Hydraulics Laboratory and for a range of findings in the engineering field. Rudolph KUCVer,
Dean of the College of Pharmacy, had an outstanding career in both academic pharmacy and as a consulting
pharmaceutical chemist and patent holder. i-Ioward Joncs was the SU1 football coach in the early 1920s who developed a
highly successful national football program. David Armbruster was a nationally prominent swimming coach and
researcher at SUI. Wendell Johnson was a nationally known speech pathologist, clinical psychologist, and pioneer in
treatment for stuttering. Irving Weber, SUI's first All -American swimmer, resided in the District throughout his life. lie
was a leading Iowa City dairy company executive and a much -loved local historian and newspaper columnist. Thelma
Lewis, a leader in the campaign to establish the mayor -city manager form of government for the city in the 1950s, became
Iowa City's second female mayor.
Under Criterion C, the Melrose Historic District is sigtifcant as a representative collection of the residential architectural
styles and vernacular house forms that appeared in Iowa City neighborhoods during the years that the area was
transformed from a country neighborhood to an early automobile and post-war residential subub. The neighborhood
contains a subdivision pattern that mixed curvilinear, col-dc-sac, and grid pattern streets with a city park along a major
town and country highway. The shift in domestic architecture during this period from large, multi -storied and richly
ornamented houses to smaller scale, less expensive residences with garages integrated onto the site is evidenced by the
homebuilding that took place in the Melrose Historic District. Together the District's subdivision plans and buildings tell
the story of suburban style architectural design and vernacular building practices dining the first half of the 20th century
in lowa City, displaying more than a dozen different architectural styles and house forms."
23
from 1943 to 1946 (after hu had lull this property) (Gerber, A Pictorial Hislory cfthe University ofIowa, p. 131). He
owned Lot C (61 Riverview Rd.) from 1901 to 1930.
llenry J. Prentiss, who headed the Department of Pathology "for many years" starting in 1904
(hitp://www.medicine.uiowa,edu/pathology/path folder/welcome/history.html), owned Lot B (53 Riverview Rd.) from
1906 to 1930, IIe and his family occupied a house built in 1902 for Harry S. Richards, who left Iowa the year after the
house was built to Leconte Dean of the Law School at the University of Wisconsin, Madison ([903-1929)
(http://wNvw.law.wisc.edu/lore/events.litro).
Other houses in [his subdivision were built for Arthur G. Smith in 1901 (Lot D, 69 Riverview Rd.) and for Frcd
L. Stevens in 1909 (Lot A, 45 Rivcrview Rd_). Arthur G. Smith, an instructor at the SU1, diud during the 1910s. His
widow, Grace P. Smith, editor of a paper in 1920 (perhaps a literaryjournal at the university? her occupation ill 1930 was
"literature': in the Feld of "editorial [sts[c?J"), continued to live in the house. Fred L. Stevens, a lawyer, lived in this
location only briefly. HI sold the property in 1911 to Robert R. Whetstone, a son of John and Mahaska (Byington)
Whetstone, and grandson of the Byingtons who created this subdivision. The houses on Lots E and F were evidently both
built for members of [he Byington family. At least one was occupicd by Otto A. Byington during the early 2011f century.
The occupant ofthe other is unclear.
Interestingly, three of rife lust four University of Iowa faculty representatives to lire Big Ten Conference were
residents of this small neighborhood: Arthur G. Smith (1990 [sic; probably 19004]-1914), W. J. Teeters (1914--1916),
and H. J. Prentiss (1917-1920) (sec http://www.nctitor.com/photos/coals/big10/genrel/auto_ pd1704recordsbool:-sec3.p(lt).
the houses in this addition were Large and expensive houses occupied primarily by important figures at the
university or by members of the Byington family. 'fire value of homes in this area in 1930 ranged Goo $20,000 to
$35,000. (Only four of the six houses were represented in this range; the former Fred L. Stevens house at 45 Riverview
Rd. was a university rental property ($50/month), and the sixth house does not appear to have been included in the
census.)
The State of Iowa acquired all but Lot F between 1924 and 1930 (with some quit claim deeds as late as 1938).
By 1948, all ofthese houses but the one on Lot F had been demolished in order to build Hillerestresidence hall (1938).
Lot F was purchased some time after 1947. Since 1948, Hillerest has expanded further to the south, and now occupies all
six lots and the sites of all the buildings formerly in this addition.
Crowley's Riverview Addition
Now the site of the peripheries of the Boyd Law Building property, including the parking area. Only surviving
house(s) are the one or two located along Riverside Cl., now, off of Riverside Dr.
'this addition, which extended to the bluff east and south of Rupencr's Riverview Addition, was probably platted
in or shortly before 1908, when the first lots were sold. 'lire addition, platted by Ed Crowley, had nine lots: G, H, J, K, L,
M, N, O, and P, It is unclear whether there were ever any Lots A—F; Lot 1 was apparently deliberately excluded from the
lettering system.
Crowley's addition appears to have been largely unsuccessful as a development.. By 1933. houses had been built
on only three lots: one house each on lots G and M, and four small residences along "Moffat Place" on the south side of
Lot L. The remaining lots were either located on steep ground on the bluff, or were located on land Borah of Melrose
Avenue, not serviced by any s6'eet.
The house on Lot G, numbered 229 Riverview by t930, was built by John Jayne in 1908, and sold to William
Moilis in 1909. Morris, a retired coal miner/teamster/farmer, and his three unmarried sons (William, Robert, and
George), all laborers, occupied this house until after 1930. Lots I -I, J, and K—the adjacent lots to the south —were sold to
Morris (and to subsequent owners) along with Lot G, but were apparently never developed. Some time between 1930 and
1950, these lots were acquired by a Chicago couple, who sold them in 1950 to Virginia Holdeman Jones. She and her
later husband sold the lots to Telford and Irene Larew it) 1955. The Larews sold the three empty lots to the south of the
house to Viggo M. Jensen Co. in 1958. The Jensens sold the three lots to the State of Iowa for the SIJI in 1965. The
house lot was sold to the state in 1962,
The house on Lot M, numbered 233 Melrose Avenue by 1930, was probably built for Anthony Swanser between
1908, when he purchased Lot M from Edward Crowley, and 1910. when he is listed in the federal census in a location that
suggests that he, was occupying this parcel of land. Swanser, a Bohemian -born carpenter, may have built the house
himself, He sold the property in 1913 to Julia Grace, who in turn sold it to Robert P. and Selma Adams (husband and
wife) in 1923. Julia F. Grace was listed in the 1920 census as a widow with no occupation and three adult or nearly adult
children. Robert P. Adams was listed in the 1920 census as a farmer in Big Grove Township, but by 1930 he was working
as a research assistant at the SUL In 19d6, the Adams heirs sold the property to Anna S. Gatcns. Silo sold the south part
of the lot in 1958 to the State of Iowa, and the north part (which contained the house) in 1960 to a couple who sold it to
the State of Iowa in 1962.
25
'I his addition was platted by J. F. Coggeshall around 190d, when the first lot was sold. It included Lots 1-15, of
swhich Lots 10-14 were small garage lots and the rcmaincler were house lots. By 1910, the federal census listed four
households in Varsity Heights. One house, probably the one on Lot 3 (127 Mehose Ave.), was built for Murray A. Wood
and his family in 1907. Murray A. Wood was a retired lurmcr. Another house, probably the one on Lot 5 (103 Grand
Ave.), was built for David S. Welch and his family in 1909, David S. Welch was an engineer and superintendent of
construction in 1910. Also living in the Welch household in 1910 was the family of Lruest A. Rodgers (Rogers),
professor of dentistry at SUL Oddly, both Welch and Rodgers were said to be the owners ofthe house.
The third house - probably the house on Lot S, later numbered 113 Varsity I-Icights—was occupied by the family
of Irving King, university professor. The fourth house, was occupied by the families of Gcorgc Bradley, who lived on his
own income, and Flias J. Hughes, a piano salesman. It is unclear which lot this last household was located on. Although
bolt Bradley and I tughes were listed in the 1910 census as owners rather than renters, neither had a deed recmded for a
lot in Varsity Heights before 1916 (Bincilcy) or 1917 (Hughes), Pricu to 1916, the how Bradley lots (1, 2, 13, and 14)
were owned by J, E. Coggeshall, who had platted the subdivision. They were purchased in t919 by T. O. and Franccs t/1.
Loveland, who eventually (between the 1920 and 1930 censuses) occupied a house at t35 Mehose Avenue (Lot 2). It is
notclear whether the house at 135 Melrose Avenue had been built by 1910, whether the Loveland house replaced and
earlier Bradley/ltughe.s house on the same site, or whether Bradley/Ilughes did not build on this parcel. The other
possibility is that the Bradley/Hughes house was located on Lot 15, whose purchase by Flias J. Hughes was recorded in
1917. Between about 1904 and 1917, Lot 15 was owned by John F. Roessler. A house on this parcel, later numbered 224
Melrose Avenue, had been built by the time ofthe 1930 census, but it is not clear how much earlier it was built.
By 1933, seven houses had been built in this addition, They were located on Lots 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, and 15. The
houses represented a range of values in 1930, with the majority valued between $7,500 and $15,000. Two (103 Melrose
Avenue and 135 Melrose Avenue) were valued at $25,000 and $30,000, respectively, and the last (109 Varsity Heights)
was a university rental property and so no value of the house was given (the rental, rate was $50/month).
109 Varsity Heights, located on Lot 7, was sold to the State of Iowa in 1924, and was apparently used for
university housing for some years thereafter. The state also purchased Lot 6 and part of garage Lot 10 in 1924, but no
buildings were present on these sites at the time ol'the 1933 Sanborn map. "fhe remainder of the lots were acquired by the
state in several clusters of purchases between 1961 and 1976, These clusters were in 196 1-1963 (3 house lots), 1970 (6
lots, including three gamgc lots), 1974 (2 lots, including one garage tot) and finally 1976 (the house lot at 224 Melrose
Avenue).
27
APPENDIX G
Letter from the Melrose Neighborhood to the State Hoard of Regents concerning a vacant lot in the Neighborhood
to be purchased by the University of Iowa
'fo: Board of Regents, State of Iowa
Date: March 16, 2006
From: Jean Walker, Melrose Neighborhood Association Representative, Iowa City
CONCERNING ITEM 3D ON THE AGENDA FOR 'I'HE MARCH 20-21, 2006 MEETING Of THE BOARD OF
RCGF.NTS IN 0I'TUMWA, IOWA:
UNWERSITY of,, IOWA PROPOSED PROPERTY PURCHASE
It has come to tine attention of the Mehose Neighborhood Association that the University of Iowa wishes to purchase the
vacant lot of 311 Melrose Court fiom the University of Iowa Facilities Corporation, to provide a second access point for
Fire and safety equipment Ica the University's adjoining property at 609 Melrose Avenue, and to use it for football
parking.
'phis vacant lot is located within the Melrose Historic District and we are extremely disappointed that this small grassy lot
(50 x 107 feet) would be used for football parking. It is ambiguous as to how the lot would be so used. It'll is for parking
cars, it would be very disruptive to the owners/residents of the properties on either side and it would result, on wet,
snowy, or rainy days, in unsightly ruts in the grass that the Neighborhood would be left with long after the cars and their
occupants had Jeff.
This unsightly mess would also be the result if the lotwere to be used as an access to the Jarge grassy area or field behind
609 Melrose Avenue. Such access would be over the curb, up an incline, and over the grass. Also, more importantly,
Melrose Court is a very narrow street and having this lot be an entrance or exit to the field would be extremely disruptive
to the already overburdened street,
Currently the property at 609 Melrose Avenue consists of a house, with adequate access for fire and safety equipment,
behind which is the large grassy area or field. For this configuration, we see no reason why a second access point for fire
and safety equipment would be needed. Therefore the University does not need this vacant lot for this purpose.
'file only reason we. can imagine that a second such access point would be necessary would be if the University intended
on constructing a large building in the field. Such a large building, in the Historic District (which would also mean
increased vehicular traffic) would be very strongly opposed by the Neighborhood, as was a previous idea to place the
Hope Lodge at this location.
The lot has been kept by the owners of 31 I Melrose Court for many, many years *precisely* to discourage inappropriate
development in the field and to avoid it being used as access to the field behind 609 Melrose Court (as it had been in the
distant past), because such use had been/would be so disruptive of, and unpleasant for, the Neighborhood. We find it,
frankly, extremely disrespectful to the Neighborhood for the University to contemplate its use, against the longstanding
express wishes of the Neighborhood, for football parking or for access to the field, particularly in the heart of the Melrose
Historic District.
In factwe were shocked to find that the University of Iowa Facilities Corporation had recently purchased the lot in the
first place, without our knowledge, as we have been given many assurances in recent years that the University was not
planning to purchase any more properties in our Neighborhood.
As we think that the University desires to be a good neighbor and has stated that it cares about Historic Preservation, we
feel that the Ul Facilities Corporation should not, in good faith, have purchased the property. Therefore we would like
you to consider that the lot not be used for football parking or access to the field and that the Neighborhood be
given the opportunity to discuss purchase of the lot from the Ul Facilities Corporation, so that the integrity of the
Historic District is preserved.
In the City of towa City's 2002 Southwest District Plan, concern was expressed `about the encroachment of university
uses into the neighborhoods south of Melrose Avenue". In addition, in a section concerning the Melrose Neighborhood, it
was stated that "it is an important goal of the City to preserve and stabilize existing residential neighborhoods close to the
29
APPENDIX H
First letter fron the Melrose Neighborhood to the State Board of Regents concerning land use in
the far West UI Campus as related to possible destruction of the Neighborhood
Melrose Neighborhood Association
335 Lucon Drive, Iowa City, IA 52246 319i337-5201
To: Memhers of the Iowa State Board of Regents
From: Jean M. Walker, Representative,
Meh'ose Neighborhood Association
Date: Apt it 19, 2004
Re: The University of fowa's tennis and recreation facility plan
Officials of the University of Iowa plan to present to you a proposed S12 million tennis and recreational facility to be built
on the University's west campus. Thus far, this area is devoid of buildings except for the Athletic Hall ofFame (and the
Hawkeye Storage building, which will be. demolished).
BEFORE YOU APPROVE THIS PLAN WE IN THE MELROSE NEIGHBORHOOD URGE YOU IN THE
S"TRON'GEST TERMS TO FIRST CONSIDER THE OVERALL LONG-TERM PLANS FOR PHYSICAL
EXPANSION OF THE UNIVERSITY AND THEIR RELATIONSHIP TO TILE INTERESTS OF THE CITY OF
IOWA CITY AND ITS CITIZENS.
Our concern is that the University, in its continuous need for expansion, will want to take over and demolish our
Neighborhood (which consists of the area south of Melrose Avenue and west from Riverside Drive to the Interstate
Railroad). Over the years, the University has done exactly that to other areas adjacent to our Neighborhood, by first
buying up homes to use for "temporary faculty housing". 'fhesc houses are then used for an institutional function such as
a daycare, and then, when enough contiguous houses are owned, they arc razed to make way for a new institutional
building or parking area, thus destroying incplaceable historic buildingS and creating non-residential "dead" zones.
"Phis has happened numerous times in the arcajust west of the Iowa River, so that now our Neighborhood is the last intact
vestige of historic cottages and bungalows on the west side of the river that developed soon after the University hospital
was relocated there in the 1920s. Prior to the 1920s, a number of country estate hones were constructed in this vicinity,
three of which date individually front 1870, 1894, and 1885 and are listed on the National Register of I-listoric Places
(NRI1P). Others dating hom 1875 and the early 1900s are not listed on the Register. In addition, in recent years two
houses in the Neighborhood have received Ilistoric Preservation awards for their owners' restoration efforts.
Sentiments describing the historic nature of the Neighborhood's huildings and encouraging preservation of this
Neighborhood are reflected in the 1992 Iowa City Ilisluric Preservation Plan, the 1996 Melrose Avemie Environmental
Assessment, the City's 1997 Comprehensive Plan, and the City's 2002 Southwest District Plan.
There are approximately 150 buildings in the Neighborhood and bath the City's Historic Preservation Planner and a
Historic Preservation Consultant hired by the Neighborhood Association have identified approximately 90 of these (which
are contiguous) to constitute an historic district (see her opinion below). The Neighborhood has hired that Consultant
(Marlys Svendsen of Svendsen Tyler Inc., who has consulted for various other historic areas in Iowa City) to survey and
research our Neighborhood and nominate the eligible part to the National Register of Historic Places. We anticipate that
this nomination will be complete by October 2004. Lstabtishing an NRHP historic district will verify the significance of
the neighborhood and contribute towards the implementation ofthe City's 2002 Southwesl District Plan,
in various of the documents mentioned above, it is suggested that the City and the University need to communicate
concerning plans for this neighborhood. For example, the SouthwestDistiicl Plan states "... it is an important goal of the
City to preserve and stabilize existing residential neighborhoods close to the University and Downtown. Achieving this
will help to prevent urban sprawl along the edges of the community, reduce commute times, provide a diverse residential
community, preserve historic resources, and support the vitality of the City's central business district. Effort should be.
31
THEREFORE, IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE AN EXPANSION 01 [HL; UN[VERSITY TIIA t IS ACCEPTABLE TO ALL
PARTIFS WE ASK THAT THE UNIVERSITY, THE CITY, AND THE NEIGHBORHOOD MEET'l 0 DISCUSS AND
RESOLVE THESF ISSUES BEFORE ANY tvIORR LAND USE MATTERS ARE APPROVED BY'I'HF IOWA S"I A'I'E
BOARD OF REGENTS.
I loot: forward to your response to this letl'er.
Thank You.
Jean M. Walker
Copies to UI and Iowa City officials
33
APPENDIX J
Third letter from the Melrose Neighborhood to file State Board of Regents concerning land use in
the far West III campus as related to possible deshuction of the Neighborhood
Melrose Neighborhood Association
335 Lucon Drive, Iowa City, IA 52246
3 1913>7-5201
10: Members of the Iowa Slate Board of Regents
Prom: Jean M. Walker, Representative,
Mehose Neighborhood Association
Date: Septcmber 112001
Re: The University of Iowa's Tennis and Recreation Facilities Plans
In both April and May of this year, I sent you a letter expressing the concerns of [he Mebose Neighborhood about the
University's lone term plans for its campus and how they might affect our Neighborhood. My comments were a p_iopos
of the proposal that the UI's new Tennis and Recreation Facilities be located in the far west campus (west of Mormon
Trek Boulevard) and I suggested that usage of this area be carefully considered in relation to the UI's future expansion
needs.
Even though current plans locate the new Recreation Facility on the cast side of Carpus, thus opening up space in the far
west campus for the Uolversity's future expansion, we once again ask you to carefully consider the planning for that far
west campus in relation to the University's long-term expansion needs. This is of particular importance in that any
destruction of the Historic District within the Melrose Nei ghhorflood to meet those expansion needs will be strongly
opposed.
Thank you,
Jean M. Walker
Copies to If[ and Iowa City officials
35
APPENDIX L
A Pledge: To preserve the shared asset of the historic Melrose Neighborhood
The history of [he Mchose Neighborhood (see attached map) reaches back into the 19" ecntury. Since the early 20"
century the neighborhood's history has been intimately bound to the university's expansion on the west side of the Iowa
River. I his neighborhood has served as a home for Ihculty, staff and university administrators, and many others, who
value its quiet, residential proximity to [he university. Over the years these residents built or remodeled a rich and diverse
stool: of housing that reflected multiple his[orical styles and a range of income levels. The history of the university',
Westside campus and the Melrose neighborhood are deeply interhvincd.
We, the neighbors, the city, and [tic university, have a shared interest in [hc preservation and the integn ity of [his
neighborhood that continues to enhance the quality of life for residents and serves as all attractive, tree -lined, welcoming
entry point to the university, as well as a convenient location for faculty and staff of the nearby law school, medical
school, and hospital to live,
Neither the neighbors, the city, nor the university would tiencht fiorn the destruction or piecemeal erosion of [he
neighborhood. The gradual shill, from home -owned to rental dweltings, [lie replacement of homes by institutional
buildings, the decline in property values and thinning ol'the population of permanent resident's would erode the quality of
life for all, producing in place of a vibrant, historic neighborhood, a vacated urban space, with what housing might remain
less well cared for, and less safe for university employees and o[hcrs to walk through on their way to and from the campus
and the hospital.
We have an opportunity to actjointly and cooperatively to preserve this neighborhood and its value. I-IOwCVC]', we Heed a
commitment from the university and from the city to take those steps necessary for its prescrvatioa. We ask a pledge
from all of us —the Melrose Neighborhood Association, the University administration, and the City Council-- to form a
partnership and actively pursue these aharcd and mutually supportive goals.
We ask
'That the university end its acquisition of residential properties in the Melrose Neighborhood and uphold the university's
boundaries as outlined in their 1998 Campus Plan;
That the university -owned residential properties which have already been acquired be used only for the purposes
previously stated: the provision of housing for visiting faculty or staff, or, in the case of sorne propeties on Melrose
Avenue itself: as daycare centers, minority student centers, and university administration; and that any properties Ho
longer needed for these purposes by the university be offered for resale as residential properties;
That the university not destroy any houses or othe struclurca on the properties it owns in the neighborhood, particularly
in the I-Iistoric District, but keep them in the manner befitting their historic value;
That the university and hospital administrations through the Campus Planning Committee work closely with the
neighborhood and the city at an early stage in the development of any plans for improvement that would have an impact
on the Mclrosc Neighborhood;
That the Melrose Neighborhood Association continue its worl<of preserving and enhancing the livability and beauty of
the neighborhood:
--continue improvements to and maintenance of Urookland Park;
--place historic markers throughout the neighborhood that enhance public
understanding of and appreciation for its history;
--wolk with the city and [lie university to maintain pedestrian and automobile
traffic flow in a safe and efficient manual,
--where possible help homeowners maintain their property values by assisting
whee needed in the maintenance or purchase of historic properties;
That [he City of Iowa City, through its elected Council, its Planting and Zoning Commission, its Parks Department, its
Ilistoric Preservation Commission, and its Neighborhood Council, support and take whatever initiatives may be needed to
preserve and enhance the Melrose Neighborhood.
=7
MINUTES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
AUGUST 9, 2012
EMMA HARVAT HALL
PRELIMINARY
MEMBERS PRESENT: Thomas Baldridge, William Downing, Shannon Gassman, Andrew Litton, Pam
Michaud, Ginalie Swaim, Dana Thomann, Frank Wagner
MEMBERS ABSENT: Kent Ackerson, Esther Baker, David McMahon
STAFF PRESENT: Chery Peterson, Bob Miklo
OTHERS PRESENT: Alan Smart, Dave Edwards, Mark Kennedy, Gloria Escarza, Mary Bennett,
Michelle Wiegand, Jean Walker
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (become effective only after separate Council action)
None.
CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Swaim called the meeting to order at 5:20 p.m.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None.
CERTIFICATES OF APPROPRIATENESS:
648 S. Lucas Street
Peterson said this property is in the Governor -Lucas St Conservation District. The project consists of the
relocation of the rear door.
Peterson presented the Staff Report, which was included in the Commission packet, and recommended
approval of the project.
There was a question about this house being a UniverCity project, and Peterson confirmed that yes it
was, and now it is a single-family owner -occupied home.
MOTION: Litton moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for an application for 648 S.
Lucas Street as presented in the application, Baldridge seconded the motion. The motion carried
on a vote of 8-0 (Ackerson, Baker, and McMahon absent).
222 Brown Street.
Peterson said this property is in the Brown Street Historic District. The project consists of improvements
to an existing rear addition, and construction of a new attached garage and small back entry with
covered stoop.
Peterson presented the Staff Report, which was included in the Commission packet, and recommended
approval of the project on conditions that the applicant provide additional information and final design
plans for review and approval by Chair and staff.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
AUGUST 9, 2012
Page 2 of 4
The Commission discussed the project. The owner, Alan Smart, and the contractor, Dave Edwards,
answered questions about the house and site, and the proposed work.
MOTION: Wagner moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for an application for 222
Brown Street, as presented in the application, with the following conditions: Provide product
information for garage doors and new windows, provide product information for siding materials,
including trim and gable shingles, and provide plan and elevation drawings of final design.
Thomann seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8-0 (Ackerson, Baker, and
McMahon absent).
727 Grant Street
Peterson said this property is in the Longfellow Historic District. The projects consist of an addition to the
rear of the house, and remodeling of the existing detached garage.
Peterson presented the Staff Report, included in the Commission packet, and noted that the original
proposal also included plans for a new freestanding studio. Peterson said the studio plans have changed
and would be presented at a later date. Peterson recommended approval of the project for the house
and garage, on conditions that the applicant provide additional information and final design plans for
review and approval by Chair and staff.
The Commission discussed the project. The contractor, Mark Kennedy, answered questions about the
proposed work.
MOTION: Michaud moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for an application for 727
Grant Street, as presented in the application, with the following conditions: Provide product
information for new doors and windows, provide product information for new exterior materials,
and provide plan and elevation drawings of final design. Downing seconded the motion. The
motion carried on a vote of 8-0 (Ackerson, Baker, and McMahon absent).
1120 Burlington Street
Peterson said this property is in the College Hill Conservation District. The project consists of a new deck
on the back side of the house.
Peterson presented the Staff Report, which was included in the Commission packet, and recommended
approval of the project on condition that the material and details of the deck railings follow the Guidelines
in the Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook.
The Commission discussed the project. The owner, Gloria Escarza, answered questions about the
proposed work.
MOTION: Wagner moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for an application for 1120
Burlington Street as presented in the application with the following conditions: detailing of the
new deck to be consistent with guidelines in the Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook,
specifically, new balustrades with top and bottom rails, with square wood spindles appropriately
sized and spaced, and handrails to match, and all new wood to be painted or stained. Baldridge
seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8-0 ( Ackerson, Baker, and McMahon
absent).
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
AUGUST 9, 2012
Page 3 of 4
REPORT ON CERTIFICATES ISSUED BY CHAIR AND STAFF:
Peterson said there were two certificates of no material affect approved by the chair and staff, and they
are documented in the Commission packet. Commission members had no comments or questions.
DISCUSS LANDMARK DESIGNATION FOR 518 BOWERY STREET
Miklo said the owner, Michelle Wiegand, has requested that her property at 518 Bowery Street be
designated as an Iowa City Historic Landmark. Miklo referred to the Iowa Site Inventory Form included
with the Commission packet, and the National Register Eligibility Review, also in the packet.
Mary Bennett spoke about the history of the building. Bennett said the property is important because it is
associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our local history.
Miklo said that designation as an Iowa City Historic Landmark means the property will require
Commission approval for any significant changes to the exterior of the building. Landmark status will also
make the property eligible for special exceptions that would allow the Board of Adjustment to waive or
modify certain zoning requirements.
MOTION: Gassman moved to approve the designation of 518 Bowery Street as an Iowa City
Historic Landmark, based on National Register Criteria 'A'. Thomann seconded the motion. The
motion carried on a vote of 8-0 (Ackerson, Baker, and McMahon absent).
SUBCOMMITTEE REPORT ON POTENTIAL LOCAL HISTORIC DISTRICTS
Swaim said the subcommittee has been meeting and is making progress, but she did not have a report at
this time.
DISCUSSION OF ANNUAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION AWARDS
Peterson said the annual awards ceremony will be in November. Peterson asked all of the
Commissioners to think about properties worthy of nomination for this year's awards.
Peterson said the categories for last year's awards included Residential Paint and Exterior Finishes,
Residential Rehabilitation, Residential Additions and New Construction, and Residential Stewardship.
The same categories for commercial and public properties will also be considered.
CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES FOR JULY 12, 2012:
MOTION: Baldridge moved to approve the minutes of the Historic Preservation Commission's
July 12, 2012 meeting, as written. Downing seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of
8-0 (Ackerson, Baker, and McMahon absent).
ADJOURNMENT:
The meeting was adjourned at 6:55 p.m.
Minutes submitted by Chery Peterson
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MINUTES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
AUGUST 29, 2012
EMMA HARVAT HALL
PRELIMINARY
MEMBERS PRESENT: Kent Ackerson, Esther Baker, Thomas Baldridge, William Downing, Shannon
Gassman, Andrew Litton, Pam Michaud, Ginalie Swaim, Frank Wagner
MEMBERS ABSENT: David McMahon, Dana Thomann
STAFF PRESENT: Melissa Clow, Bob Miklo
OTHERS PRESENT:
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (become effective only after separate Council action)
None.
CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Swaim called the meeting to order at 5:15 p.m.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA:
DISCUSSION OF THE IOWA CITY GATEWAY PROJECT (THE ELEVATION OF DUBUQUE STREET
AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW PARK ROAD BRIDGE) RELATIONSHIP TO ADJACENT
HISTORIC PROPERTIES:
Miklo introduced Clow, the Special Projects Administrator who has been working on this project for the
past two years. He said Clow would give an overview of the project and some details about the historic
properties adjacent to this that might be affected, although no actual historic building will be touched as
part of the project. He said the goal was to get a comment from the Commission regarding the impact of
this project that would then be forwarded to the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO).
Clow said this project involves the elevation of Dubuque Street and the construction of a new Park Road
Bridge. She showed that the project study area includes Dubuque Street from the 1-80 interchange at the
north all the way to Church Street at the south and Park Road from Dubuque Street west to Holt Avenue.
Clow said the study area goes over to Holt, because this construction would include a third lane
improvement to Park Road west of the bridge that would go all the way to Riverside Drive.
Clow stated that this project was brought on by the 2008 flood. She said the project has been in the
planning stage now since November 2010. Clow said this process is called a NEPA study which was
supposed to be completed right about now to begin final design after Labor Day. Clow said that NEPA
stands for the National Environmental Policy Act and is required for projects seeking federal funds or
permits. There are currently 3 federal grants that will help fund this project. Currently, the NEPA review
is being held up by SHPO given the historic properties and districts that are adjacent to the project
corridor.
Clow said that Phase II will be the design. She said staff is hoping that design will take 18 to 20 months,
and the project will be on track to begin construction in the spring of 2014 with a completion date in the
fall of 2015.
Clow stated that this will take two construction seasons. She said it could be done in one, but it will take
two because the City will maintain two lanes of traffic during construction. Clow said there will be a few
times that intersections and different areas will have to be shut down completely to match the raised
elevation and shift traffic over.
Clow said this whole process started after hiring a design consultant (HNTB Corporation, Kansas City,
MO) in November of 2010. She said that in February 2011, the first public meeting was held, and this
Historic Preservation Commission
August 29, 2012
Page 2 of 8
process was introduced. Clow said staff looked at a lot of different options for this project, including
improving different roads and not Dubuque Street. She said a number of initial alternatives were
introduced, evaluated internally and stakeholder meetings were held with City staff, University staff, utility
companies, public safety officials, the public and more.
Clow said staff took all of that input and evaluated the many alternatives. She said that from there, they
came up with three reasonable alternatives. Clow said that a public open house was held to share the
three alternatives and receive public comment. She said the three alternatives were again evaluated and
a preferred alternative was developed.
Clow said the alternative has not been made public yet, because it needed to go through the NEPA
process and be reviewed and approved by the Federal Highway Administration before the final public
meeting. She said that after the final public meeting, staff will take any recommendations, make any
required changes, and submit the final Environmental Assessment (EA) document, which will be reviewed
by the 3 agencies administering funds, the Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT, the Federal
Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Economic Development Administration (EDA). Clow said she
anticipates a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI), allowing the project to move to final design from
there.
Clow said the NEPA process has taken this entire time and was on track prior to SHPO review. She said
this Commission will probably have a lot of questions about exactly what impact the project has to each of
the adjacent properties. Clow said SHPO has requested more information, because it wants answers,
but staff cannot move to final design until approval is received.
Clow said the first part of the EA document is known as the Purpose & Need — why do this project. She
said the reason for doing the project is to provide a reliable, multi -modal transportation corridor to reduce
the impact of flooding on local transportation systems and the Iowa River Corridor. Clow said staff wants
to maximize the reliability of both Dubuque Street and Park Road Bridge.
Clow said one of the biggest concerns is to minimize the backwater created by Park Road Bridge. She
said there was up to 14 inches of backwater created by the bridge in 2008. Clow said that impacted
properties and businesses were located upstream all the way to the Iowa Power River Dam. She said
this is the only flood mitigation project being done through the Iowa River Corridor that will reduce the
surface water elevation.
Clow said staff also wanted to address existing roadway deficiencies on Dubuque Street and Park Road.
She stated that the Park Road Bridge is not safe for pedestrians since it is not up to current code with
barriers. The entire bridge deck is in need of replacement as well. Clow said the pavement on Dubuque
Street was from the early to mid-1980s. She said that the winter before last, the City was constantly
patching it. Clow stated that even if this project doesn't go forward, the City is looking at a lot of
construction activity throughout the corridor.
Clow showed a slide of the NEPA Tasks to complete this phase of the project. She said that one can see
on the left-hand side what has been completed. Clow said that the flood model of the Iowa River and that
staff is using is one of the most complete in the State. She said it is being held by the Iowa Flood Center
(IFC) at the University of Iowa. Clow said staff used LIDAR, or laser surveys to get the actual cross
section of the river bed. This ensures that staff is using what is actually out there, not an estimate. Clow
said the consultant for Dubuque Street, the consultant for Taft Speedway, HR Green, and the initial
consultant for the University have looked at this model. Clow said there have been a lot of hands on it,
and everyone has come to the same conclusion.
Clow said staff needs to keep talking with the stakeholders and property owners. She said there needs to
be resource agency coordination with the DNR, SHPO, the US Army Corps of Engineers, the Iowa DOT
and everyone else involved. After FHWA approval, Clow said the document will be released for public
review. There will be the public hearing and then final approval will need to be received before the final
design can begin.
Historic Preservation Commission
August 29, 2012
Page 3 of 8
Clow referred to the staffs preferred alternative shown on the screen. She said that right now the plan is
to elevate the roadway one foot above the 500-year floodplain, which would put it approximately two and
one-half feet above the 2008 flood elevation. Clow said that, based on costs and a final design, the
impact to the properties, this has the ability to change. Clow said staff has previously discussed using the
2008 flood elevation plus one foot or even the 100-year flood elevation plus one foot on Dubuque Street.
She said that would not maximize the reliability of the roadway and getting people from the interstate to
downtown Iowa City. The Park Road Bridge was designed to pass the 100-year flood event under it, so it
will be raised such that the bottom steel structure of the bridge will be at the 500-year flood elevation plus
one foot in order to reduce the backwater that occurred in 2008.
Clow stated that more bike/pedestrian trail connections will be provided. She said staff wants to maintain
the parkway feel. Clow said that one of the most important aspects of this project in that this corridor is
different than any other coming into town. She said that one comes into town amid parks and historic
properties, and staff wants to maintain that feel and does not want it to become an urban feel.
Clow said the new bridge will provide five lanes of traffic to accommodate event traffic. She said there will
be two lanes headed west and three eastbound lanes with two that will be left-hand turn lanes north and a
dedicated right turn lane to go south.
Clow showed a map of the impact areas for the preferred alternative. She said there will be 0.9 acres of
wetlands that will be impacted. Clow said those will be mitigated either south of Parkview Church or
offsite in designated areas. She said there will be 52 acres of grading and paths to public parks and
open space, 1.4 acres to historic sites or districts, with no buildings or resources being taken, most of
which will be temporary grading and construction easements.
Clow said 152 acres will be impacted in the 100-year flood plain and 17.9 in the 500-year flood plain.
She said that there will be minimal right-of-way acquired; approximately 0.8 acres and staff will work to
restrict the amount of area that will be taken during final design.
Clow referred to the exhibits that were included in the packet. She said that 1818 North Dubuque Street
is the stone house with a stone garage that sits directly on Dubuque Street. Clow said the garage is the
main focus point. She said staff initially tried to maintain the Foster intersection as it is and with little
impact from construction. Clow said that at the same time, staff determined that design will end up
getting into the intersection in order to pull the road away from this property. She pointed out that the
garage on Dubuque Street is used for storage and there is another garage that the owner actually uses
for parking.
Clow referred to the light gray on the map and said staff wants to pull the roadway as far as reasonably
possible away from the garage to still provide an eight -foot, multi -use pedestrian path. She said what
they want to do is connect Foster to Brown on the east side of Dubuque Street, with the sidewalk, and
that doesn't exist now.
Clow said the plan at the stone garage is to build a retaining wall immediately behind the sidewalk. She
said that driveway access would be provided a little bit to the south to match into the grade that the
roadway will be. Clow said there is a pretty significant grade on that driveway right now. Downing asked
if the garage will be well below the roadway. Clow showed a view of that. She showed where the drive
will pull in and have access and maintain driveway access and enough area to turn around.
Clow stated that the orange shading on the diagram refers to temporary grading. She said grading
impacts do result in a potential area of tree removal. Clow said the trees have been looked at, and
throughout the corridor, the trees are largely volunteer trees. She said there are a few that are nice oaks
or sycamores, but mostly they are volunteer trees that have grown up.
Clow said they are going to maintain the turnaround at Taft Speedway but will move it a little bit to the
north to provide some more separation from Ridge Road. She said they will take a little bit of property
down below from 1818 North Dubuque (Joe Coulter) to make that happen.
Historic Preservation Commission
August 29, 2012
Page 4 of 8
Swaim asked if the sidewalks are elevated on the east side. Clow confirmed that sidewalks will be typical
— from the roadway curb and gutter, the median will slope up at a 2% cross slope to the walk. She said
the west path will be elevated as well.
Clow showed a graphic of the cross section for Commission members with questions about specific
properties. She stated that red line depicts the existing grade and blue showed the new roadway, the
sidewalk, the barrier rail, or a decorative rail of some sort, and the retaining wall. Clow showed the
existing face of the garage.
Clow said one can see the existing edge of Dubuque Street and is pretty close to the garage. She said
they have moved the roadway west enough to get the sidewalk and retaining wall in and maintain a
turnaround area. Clow showed what the area looks like right now and what it will look like when it's
elevated. Clow said that the drive pretty much comes right out to Dubuque Street now. She said she is
hoping this will give some space to be able to see traffic and improve visibility.
Clow said the next property is the Englert House at 1501 Ridge. She said that Dubuque Street will end
up at an elevation similar to that of the house. Clow said the grading impact is .015 acres. She said
there will be a little bit more of a temporary impact for grading. She said construction will be done on the
property to reconstruct the driveway and bring it up to grade.
Clow showed where Ridge Road currently comes down. She said they want to give cars an opportunity
to come out and stop and have visibility. Clow showed where Ridge Road would turn into the driveway.
She said staff will talk to the owners about the grade they would like to have the drive elevated to. Clow
said they will discuss if they want the drive to come down and match existing, or if they want to have it
graded and raised so that if there is another flood event, they will have access to their property.
Clow said there is no impact to the house with this plan. She said the owners will actually have the
benefit of Ridge Road being moved away from the house. Clow showed a cross section, with the red
representing the existing grade. She showed where the proposed roadway is represented moved up to
the elevated grade. Clow said the proposed east side of Dubuque Street in this location would have a
grass median, sidewalk, and would drop down a bit to the driveway and match existing grade. Clow said
the edge of pavement lines are drawn a little bit closer to the center line of Ridge Road, depicting that that
drive will be a little bit narrower.
Clow stated that 1032 North Dubuque is a fraternity house. She said they have already cleared the east
slope of trees and growth last fall. Clow said there would be a small grading impact. She said this would
not impact the structure at all. Clow said Dubuque Street would be shifted away from the property. She
said there will be sidewalk activity that is not there right now, and the driveway would be raised to match
proposed grade.
Clow showed the cross section, demonstrating that Dubuque Street would be moved away a little bit.
She showed the sidewalks and how it would match existing grade using a 4:1 slope (something easily
mowed). Clow said that the 4:1 slope, as it is shown, could go up or down to match existing grade. She
said it will depend on drainage, grading and where storm sewers and low points are located.
Clow referred to the Brown Street District. She said that at the north end of Bella Vista, Dubuque Street
will be raised approximately ten feet. She said the figure is approximate because Park Road Bridge is
going to be raised to the 500-year flood elevation plus one, and that is to the bottom steel structure of the
bridge. Clow said the roadway (bridge deck) will be located at a higher elevation, depending on the deck
thickness, which is typically between 7 & 10'. Clow said therefore Park Road Bridge is going to be raised
higher than Dubuque Street. She said this portion of Dubuque Street near Bella Vista is going to be
above the 500-year flood elevation plus one foot in order to meet the pavement elevation of Park Road
Bridge.
Clow said, regarding the grading impact to Bella Vista, staff combined all the properties and summarized
36 acres of impact between Kimball and Park Roads. She said it will likely impact the trees in this area.
Historic Preservation Commission
August 29, 2012
Page 5 of 8
Clow said the plan shifts Dubuque Street away from the properties as much as possible. She said that it
is a tight section of the corridor, so staff will have to do what it can when this gets into final design,
specifically with retaining walls to determine the elevation of the bike path along the river & separation
from the roadway.
Clow said the Dubuque Street and Park Road intersection has been shifted south. She said that right
now it lines up directly with 5 Bella Vista Place. Swaim said the orange shading depicts the temporary
impacts but is where the grading will change permanently. Clow agreed that through there the grade will
change. Swaim asked if, when it is all finished, it will be flat and then to a stone wall and then existing.
Clow responded that right now, there is just a gentle slope down to existing shown in the cross section.
She said that, depending on where the storm sewer is and how grading is developed, it might be more flat
than that. Clow said it is possible during final design, if it comes to having to mitigate impact and not
impact these properties as much, a retaining wall could be added to maintain existing grade. She said
that would impact cost for construction of the retaining wall. Clow added that the biggest worry then is
maintenance in that area. She said that areas that are low and behind walls tend to go un-maintained
and collect trash. Clow said that is initially why staff is proposing grading up to existing and trying to keep
it clean.
Clow said staff is working with Project Green for the entire corridor to landscape it. She said staff is also
working with the property owners.
Baldridge asked how many lanes Dubuque Street would have after construction. Clow replied that it
would remain the same — four lanes with two in each direction. She showed where there would be an
extra turn lane at the intersection, a right hand turn lane from Dubuque Street to the west onto Park Road.
Ackerson asked if moving Dubuque Street west would be pushing the bank of the Iowa River west. Clow
showed where the retaining wall that is being proposed is located. She showed where there would
possibly be retaining barrier wall, and then the sidewalk located closer to the roadway.
Swaim asked how big the retaining wall would be. Clow said it will be 15 feet. She said staff has
discussed moving the retaining wall closer to the roadway and doing a type of river walk with the trail
along there and having the Iowa River Trail bike path go closer to the river bank. Clow said that when it
floods, the trail would flood, but we would have the sidewalk on the east side of the roadway to provide
pedestrian access. She said staff is working on that cross section.
Swaim asked how high the retaining wall would be from the level of Dubuque Street. Clow said it would
be three and one-half to four feet. She said one reason for having it close to the river and not putting the
trail down is that it would be far enough away from the roadway that code wouldn't require a traffic barrier.
Clow said it could be more of an open fence. She said staff would like to maintain the views of the river.
Michaud asked if the river itself will be dredged out. Clow responded that they cannot dredge it. She said
the section of the river is actually starved for silt, because all the silt drops off in the reservoir. Clow said
as the river flows into the reservoir and is slowed by the dam, it settles out.
Swaim said Clow talked of this being more of a buffer than a levee. She asked if the retaining wall would
keep the water in the River. Clow replied that with the retaining wall's location, the river would rise
against the wall. She said it would be designed to hold the roadway on one side and withstand the River
against it, but not to hold back water.
Clow said the City is not constructing a levee and pump station, so if the water did come up, and there
was a little ditch on the east side, there could be standing water there that would match the level of the
river. She said they would be raising Kimball and all the other intersections so that access is maintained.
Downing asked about how high Dubuque Street would go up at Mayflower. Clow replied that it is going
up approximately three and one-half feet above the first floor of Mayflower.
Historic Preservation Commission
August 29, 2012
Page 6 of 8
Clow showed what the property looks like now and what it would be raised to on a graphic. She said if
one looks at the overhead lines on the east side of the road, one can see that elevation change occur.
Clow pointed out the Park Road intersection and how it has been shifted south in the graphic. She
showed the approximate location, if one goes straight up the hill, to 5 Bella Vista and then all the way
down would be the Kimball Road intersection. She showed the driveway up to the fraternity house.
Clow referred to 816 Dubuque Street. She said this would impact the parking lot, so the parking lot will
be elevated, and the drive will be lined up with the Park Road intersection. Clow said the temporary
impact along here is .04 acres, and again the structure will not be impacted. Clow said staff is proposing
a possible retaining wall along here to eliminate grading impacts close to the structure, because the
existing sidewalk will be widened.
Clow showed the cross section of the area. She showed where they are already up a little bit, so
Dubuque Street won't be raised as much, perhaps five feet in that area. Clow said the grade right now is
steeper than four to one in front of the structure; so that is where they will be working with property
owners and will likely introduce retaining walls to help the current steep slope.
Clow said the last one of the houses is 804 Dubuque. She said there would be minor construction
impact, but the structure itself would not be impacted. Clow stated that, as seen on the aerial, staff will be
shifting the Dubuque Street edge of the pavement away from the property and adding the sidewalk.
Clow showed a cross section of what will be done there. She said the property is right on the edge of the
Dubuque Street improvement where the street will not be raised much at all, so the biggest impact will be
adding the sidewalk.
Ackerson asked what the width is of the sidewalks on the east and west sides of Dubuque Street would
be. Clow responded that on the east side, the sidewalks are currently four or five feet; they are pretty
narrow. She said they are not continuous at all. Clow said the plan calls for an eight -foot sidewalk, and
on the west side there would be a ten -foot bike trail.
Michaud asked about the lamps that would be put in and if there would be a more historic look. Clow
answered that that is something that can be discussed during final design. She said that right now, the
plan includes just standard street lamps out there.
Clow said the last property to be impacted is just south the Park Road Bridge. She said the structure will
not be impacted. Clow said that a limited amount of area will be needed for right-of-way acquisition. She
said that is because a left-hand turn lane is needed from Dubuque Street onto Park Road left bound.
Clow said that since Park Road Bridge is moving south, that whole lane and that storage has to move
south.
Clow said the grading impact would be to the parking lot and access drive. She said a large area is
shown on the plan, and is due to a very steep existing drive. Clow said the City would like to propose to
the owner that the parking lot be re -graded to potentially grade the driveway to make it longer and flatten
it out to make it more accessible. She said the parking lot would have the same number of parking stalls
that it has now, and the situation would be improved.
Baldridge asked if the new parking lot would be above/higher than the existing parking lot. Clow said it
would not. She said if it is it would be the north portion of it. Clow said accessibility has to be maintained
to the structure as is there now. She showed a diagram and how the parking lot would still be pretty
much where it is now.
Swaim asked about the Kimball Street turnoff where there is a little green space. She said it is right at the
intersection if one is going north on Dubuque and turns off. Swaim asked if that area will be impacted.
Clow said staff would like to clean it up and has also talked about cleaning up a bluff covered in growth
just south of Mayflower and doing something similar to what was done along Riverside.
Historic Preservation Commission
August 29, 2012
Page 7 of 8
Gassman asked if there was any discussion in the early planning stages about the difference between
grading and actually building up the bridge structure through the area. Clow said that was discussed, and
that it was brought up right away by the consultant. She said if an elevated road on the bridge would be
done, the long-term maintenance would be very expensive. Clow said staff is also concerned about
homeless people living under there and maintaining that area under the roadway.
Swaim said that right now there is a median between the two sets of lanes. Clow said that would be
maintained. She said for one thing, Cambus needs the width to turn around on its route.
Clow said there is discussion about leaving the roadway section as it is now but kind of curving also to
drain into there and then landscaping it. She said it lends itself to that park feeling and not an urbanized
roadway.
Ackerson asked about the funding for the project. Clow said the City has a three million dollar grant from
the Economic Development Administration (EDA) to pay for design and engineering. She said there are
also several Federal Highway Administration / DOT grants. Clow said the project is still about nine to ten
million dollars short. She said the estimated cost is $32 million. She said staff is still working with the
DOT on funding. Clow said that a lot of the grants they have been available in the past two years require
spending the money within one year of receiving it. She said as the project gets closer, more
opportunities should present themselves.
Ackerson asked if the plans will include accommodating the traffic to the Hancher parking lot for Hancher
events. Clow confirmed this and said that with the expanded lanes on Park Road Bridge, they have
talked about increasing the number of inbound lanes and switching it to increase the number of outbound
lanes during events. She said staff is working with the Hancher relocation team so that they are on board
with the improvement and so that staff is getting them what they need.
Swaim said she is pleased that there will be a continuous sidewalk on the east side and the efforts to
keep the area looking park -like. Clow said staff has met with all the property owners along that area and
continues to have conversations with them. She said property owners have some concerns that there will
be an increased noise level. Clow said the noise level that exists on Dubuque Street already exceeds the
level that is set by the federal standards. She said staff did do a noise analysis that will be included in the
document and discussed with the property owners.
Michaud asked if the loops on the west side of the bridge represented the bike trails off the bridge. Clow
confirmed this. She said the trail will go under the bridge on the west side, although there is not enough
room on the east side. Clow said staff wants to design this so that in the future, there will be a possibility
of cantilevering a trail out over the river or doing something creative. She said there are plans with the
University to continue the trail on the east side of the river, behind the fraternity houses. Michaud said
this has addressed a lot of the issues, and there have obviously been a lot of meetings about this.
Ackerson said, as a long-term Iowa City resident who has seen Dubuque Street be closed far too often,
this project looks like it will mitigate the impacts on the neighborhoods.
MOTION: Ackerson moved that the Historic Preservation Commission send a letterto the State
Historic Preservation Office finding that the proposed Gateway Project is a needed community
improvement. The Commission further found that efforts have been made to avoid and mitigate
impacts on historic properties. The Commission found that no historic structures would be
directly affected and that the amount of grading on historic properties is acceptable. The
Commission is in favor of approval of the project as presented.
Downing seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8-0 (McMahon. Thomann. and
Wagner absent).
Clow said there will certainly be more opportunities to comment on the project-
ADJOURNMENT -
The meeting was adjourned at 6:05 p.m.
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