2508-2510 Laurel St

Staff Recommendations:

FEMA research indicates the building was constructed between 1890-1900 and first appears on the 1896 Sanborn Map, within the period of significance for the district. The previous owner/applicant originally applied for a Structural Renovation building permit that included a new rear addition. The CofA was issued on June 16, 2020 and the building permit issued the next day. On May 11, 2021 the HDLC Inspector was notified of the buildings collapse. The HDLC Inspector noted that, all stabilizing assemblies of the structure were damaged likely as a result of destabilization of the structure including removing walls, chimneys, and installing insufficient bracing. The building had collapsed onto the neighboring structure and was completely racked including the front wall in multiple directions. The current owner bought the empty lot on March 4, 2022 and applied for new construction permits. Staff recommends the retention of the demolition be granted without fines. If the Commission sets a fine, the fine range for the property is $1,000 to $10,000.

For the new construction, the ARC recommended conceptual approval with the details to be worked out at the staff level. The ARC stated that the first-floor should be lowered to 11’ floor-to-ceiling height and the handrails should be 36”.