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HDC approves rebuilt stairs for 10 Prospect Street with safety and preservation conditions
Summary
The commission combined two applications from the same property and approved replacement of front and side entry staircases at 10 Prospect Street, requiring code‑compliant railings, baluster spacing no greater than 4 inches, pressure‑treated materials, decorative trim in kind, and painting within six months.
Somersworth — The Somersworth Historic District Commission on Jan. 22 approved the replacement of front and side entry staircases at 10 Prospect Street with conditions intended to preserve the building’s historic character while improving safety.
The two applications submitted by Shane Short (owner/contractor) were combined by motion and the commission approved both at once. The commission’s approval requires that all new stair railings be constructed of pressure‑treated wood, be at least 34 inches high (and not exceed 38 inches), and have balusters spaced no more than 4 inches apart. Any decorative trim that is repaired or replaced must be done in kind; all new wood is to be painted within six months of installation. A new concrete pad shown in the application packet was also approved.
Applicant Shane Short and co‑owner Carrie Zabodil described the existing stairs as structurally deteriorated: stringers were rotted and undersized, the Trex decking had sagged due to excessive span, and existing railings lacked adequate support. Zabodil said the intent was to “get it as historically accurate as possible” and to reuse decorative elements where they remain sound.
Commissioner Mativia and others noted that some of the rear stairs are not visible from the public right of way and recommended keeping the rear work simpler and consistent with existing materials rather than adding new decorative elements not historically present. The commission agreed: decorative lattice and trim were not required on rear stairs unless originally present and visible.
Chair Tim and commissioners emphasized structural and safety improvements. Commissioner Vandivia moved the approval with the height and baluster conditions; after a separate vote the two applications were combined (vote recorded 7‑0 to combine) and the conditioned approval passed.
The approval requires the applicant to match the front stairs’ historic appearance on the public elevation, to rebuild stringers and treads in accordance with the submission and accepted code‑compliant rail geometry, and to paint new wood within six months. The commission noted that applicants may return with further modifications if needed; approvals are valid for one year.
The decision aims to preserve visible historic features while addressing structural safety issues and code‑related railing geometry.
