Historic Preservation Board approves gated wrought-iron fence for patio at 130 West Woodard

The Historic Preservation Board on Feb. 4 approved a certificate of appropriateness to install a vertical wrought-iron fence with gates on both ends along the Austin Avenue side of 130 West Woodard, the board said.

The action covers a request to create a patio area at the Dregs Liquor location and includes a drinking fountain that was discussed by staff but not part of the fence-specific portion of the item. Mary (staff) told the board the applicant had previously been asked to explore alternate materials and had presented both vertical bar and vertical cable designs; she said, “Staff does recommend approval of the gated fence due to the adjacency along Austin Avenue.”

The board noted safety considerations were a key reason to prefer the gated, vertical-bar design, especially because a conditional use permit for a food truck at the site was approved at two council meetings ago and the patio could be used by customers and passersby. The applicant, Mr. Earnhardt, was not present to speak at the meeting.

Board member Mr. Dukovsky made the motion to approve the certificate of appropriateness for a vertical wrought-iron fence with gates on both ends along the Austin Avenue side of 130 West Woodard; Ms. Boren seconded. The motion passed on a voice vote (“Aye”).

The board’s approval covers the fence and gates as presented; the drinking fountain was noted during staff remarks and was not tabled or contested in the hearing.