Commission approves façade renovation for 124–126 North Lebanon Street with staff review of parapet cap

The Lebanon Historic Preservation Commission on June 3, 2025, approved a certificate of appropriateness for a façade renovation at 124–126 North Lebanon Street, subject to staff review and final approval of a consistent parapet cap material and color.

The applicant, Eichman Corner LLC (partners include Bart Jackson), proposed a multi-part renovation to restore and modernize storefronts and upper façades. Staff described the property as noncontributing within the Lebanon Courthouse Square Historic District and recommended approval, noting the work would repair altered historic fabric while avoiding features that would convey a false historic authenticity.

Derek (planning staff) summarized the project: proposed work includes removing cement board siding and replacing it with brick, installing a decorative brick cornice above balcony openings, replacing first-floor storefronts with black aluminum display windows and doors, adding a limestone veneer bulkhead, restoring three previously bricked-in first-floor window openings with new limestone sills, infilling basement window openings with matching brick, installing new black-aluminum doors and windows on the alley (west) elevation, adding a new sidewalk ramp with black-aluminum railings, and constructing a small patio above first-floor space at the west end of the north elevation. Derek told the commission, "Staff believes the proposed changes do not have a negative impact on the district or the building, and staff recommends approval of the COA as submitted." He also noted a staff suggestion to add a soldier course in some locations to give the façade better definition; the applicant appeared open to that change.

Funding for brick cleaning, repointing and brick repair on the north and west elevations will come in part from local grant money and American Rescue Plan Act funds managed through the city planning office; staff said those federal funds will be administered through RFPs that will go to the Board of Works for contract approval. Derek also said crews will remediate lead-based paint on the north elevation as part of the work.

Commission discussion focused on material choices and historic precedent for parapet cap materials. Commissioners and the applicant discussed clay, limestone and metal cap options; the applicant, Bart Jackson, said he was open to alternatives and would consult the partners, architect and general contractor. A motion to approve the COA carried with the condition that the parapet cap material be consistent across the building and that staff have authority to approve the final material and color outside a public meeting. Jennifer conducted a roll call; commissioners Scott Allen, Tim Schrock and George Piper voted to approve the motion (3–0).

The applicant indicated work would begin promptly after closing and final contractor selection, with demolition and masonry work prioritized. The applicant estimated work on both 124 and 126 North Lebanon Street would begin in late June or early July and aimed for completion by late fall or no later than the end of the year. City staff said masonry choices must be approved before installation and that the RFPs for masonry and related contracts are being prepared for the Board of Works.

The COA approval covers the façade changes as presented, with the requirement that the applicant submit parapet cap material and color for staff approval before installation. Staff will oversee compliance with the RFP and remediation plans funded in part by federal ARP money.