Controversial construction project faces historic review hurdles

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a new construction project located on the east side of New Hampshire Street in the 1000 block. This project is distinct from a previously reviewed initiative on the west side, which was addressed in last month’s session.

The current proposal involves a certificate of approval aligned with downtown design guidelines. However, complications arose when the applicant submitted a building permit that did not align with the elevations previously approved by the Historic Resources Commission. While minor changes can typically be approved administratively, the discrepancies in this case were deemed significant enough that staff felt it necessary to withhold administrative approval. This decision underscores the importance of maintaining consistency with historic preservation standards in the area.