Historic preservation board clears demolition at 100 Pass‑a‑Grille Way; redevelopment design review draws heavy public comment

The St. Pete Beach Historic Preservation Board on May 1 approved a certificate of appropriateness to demolish three storm‑damaged structures at 100 Pass‑a‑Grille Way (case 25051) without the 30‑day preservation stay, then spent more than an hour hearing the applicant’s design review for a proposed redevelopment and listening to neighborhood concerns.

Brandon Berry, city planning staff, told the board staff supports demolition without a stay because the structures sustained “extensive damage” in the recent storm and the property owner has applied simultaneously for design review and variances needed to redevelop the site as three three‑story “courtyard apartment” buildings (6 new units replacing 6 existing units). “We do ask that a motion be made to approve this case for the demolition of the contributing structures at the property without stay on demolition,” Berry said.

The applicant’s representative, Brian Unst, attorney for Barracks by the Sea LLC, told the board the applicant “is in agreement with the staff recommendation … and so my only request would be for you to grant that, and make a motion to approve that.” He said the applicants understand potential risks tied to variances the Board of…