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Commission postpones decision on 145 Academy Street fence and walkway; asks applicants for materials and photos
Summary
The commission continued review of a proposed 6-foot cedar fence, single gate and redesigned front walkway at 145 Academy Street, asking applicants to supply photos, gate details, material samples and precise measurements before a vote.
The Historic District and Landmark Preservation Commission on May 12 continued its review of a proposed fence and walkway at 145 Academy Street, asking the applicants to provide additional documentation and physical samples before the commission will take a vote.
Christina Widmark and a co-applicant said they sought a six-foot fence to secure their backyard after finding "cigarette butts" and other items at the property during a pre-move inspection; they also proposed replacing a weathered brick paver walkway with stone or tile. The applicants said they prefer cedar and a single swing gate and provided a conceptual drawing and a survey-based site diagram at the meeting.
Commissioners and staff asked for more detail before final action: current-condition photos from the public way and the backyard, a clear gate elevation and the exact product or manufacturer for the fence and pavers, and a small constructed sample or board for staining tests. Commissioner Bridal Hooper and others noted that cedar is an appropriate material for new fence work in many cases; commissioners also recommended testing stain samples before committing to a finish.
Commissioners discussed alternative walkway materials (bluestone slabs, brick, or porcelain pavers) and encouraged the applicants to consider historically sympathetic options and to bring a small sample to the next meeting so the commission could review color and texture. The applicants agreed to provide photos, the precise fence and gate vendor details, and material samples; the commission did not vote and the application will be carried to a future meeting so staff and commissioners can review the requested materials.
Staff advised the applicants about documentation requirements and next steps. The commission and staff also suggested the applicants consider a mock-up or small sample panel that demonstrates the fence profile, hardware, and stain before full construction.
A continuation, rather than denial, leaves the applicants able to return with the requested documentation; the commission said it prefers to review a complete package rather than approve sight unseen.
