2318 Chippewa St.

District: Irish Channel - Full Control

Owner: Galilee Housing Initiative & Community Dev Corporation

HDLC Staff: Wendy Cargile

Rating: Non-Contributing

Applicant: Earl Myers

Permit #: 26-09366-HDLC

HDLC Guidelines: 

Section 12, Pages 23-24 of the Guidelines for New Construction, Additions and Demolition states that the demolition of all or portions of historic resources within a local Historic District or Landmark site are considered drastic actions, since they alter the character of the area. Once historic resources or buildings that contribute to the heritage of the community are destroyed, it is generally impossible to reproduce their design, texture, materials, details and their special character and interest in the neighborhood. When reviewing demolition applications at properties located within a Historic District or at a Landmark site, the HDLC uses the following criteria in its evaluations:

• The historic or architectural significance of the building or structure as designated by its “rating”: Non-Contributing

• The importance of the building or structure to the tout ensemble of the area:  FEMA research indicates the building was constructed between 1970 and 1980, outside the period of significance for the district.

• The alternatives to demolition that have been explored by the applicant: N/A

• The difficulty or impossibility of reproducing such a building or structure because of its design, texture, material or detail: It would not be a difficult structure to recreate.

• The special character and aesthetic interest that the building or structure adds to the local Historic District: None. The building is out of set with the neighboring properties, which includes a large parking area in front of the building. The short stature and mansaard roof are also acontextual.

• The condition of the building or structure: From an exterior inspection, the building was found to be in fair to poor condition. Most of the openings on the facade were boarded and the one that was not was missing window panes. There was also vegetation and deterioration of the roof shingles present.

Staff Recommendations: 

As the building is Non-Contributing and out of context with the rest of the block face, Staff has no objection to the demolition.

• Recommendation: No objection.