Prescott Preservation Commission approves new striped awning for Prescott Sweets and Treats

The Prescott Preservation Commission on March 14 approved HP25-002, a request to replace the fabric on an existing storefront awning and retain historically compatible lettering for Prescott Sweets and Treats at the Downtown Courthouse Plaza.

Staff told commissioners the proposal involved replacing only the canvas fabric on an existing awning and using a historically compatible font for lettering reading “Prescott Sweets and Treats.” Kaylee Nunez, historian for the City of Prescott, said the proposed colors are muted and that the project complies with the Courthouse Plaza district rules encouraging fabric awnings. “The proposed awning will not negatively impact the historic status of the building nor the district as a whole,” Nunez said.

The commission discussed the awning’s color and signage size. Commissioner James (Jim) McCarver asked whether the color was sufficiently neutral; Nunez said the submitted sample is a muted tone and that staff reviewed online swatches and a physical sample. Nunez also said the property’s existing wall-mounted sign already uses the applicant’s maximum allotment under the city’s sign code but that lettering on the awning is being treated as grandfathered so long as the new lettering is not larger than the current lettering.

Diane Travis moved to approve HP25-002; Mary Ann Suttles seconded. The chair called for the vote and the motion passed. The commission’s decision followed staff recommendation to approve the replacement fabric and lettering on the existing framing, subject to the condition that new lettering not exceed the size of the current text.

Business owners Kevin and Cindy Ray were present and available to answer questions. After the vote, nearby business owners introduced themselves to the commission and said they intended to work with staff to preserve the downtown’s historic look.

The approval authorizes replacement of the awning fabric and lettering on the existing awning frame at the Downtown Courthouse Plaza location; it does not change the existing wall-mounted sign allotment and adheres to the district’s design guidance for neutral colors and canvas awnings.

Details recorded in the meeting show the commission considered color samples, size limits under the sign code (based on linear feet of storefront), and the compatibility of materials and type style with district guidelines. No additional permits or conditions were announced at the hearing; any further sign permits will proceed through the city’s permitting process.