Tuscaloosa Historic Preservation Commission approves multiple certificates of appropriateness, continues tree-removal request

The Tuscaloosa Historic Preservation Commission on March 12 approved six certificates of appropriateness for exterior changes across multiple historic districts in Council District 4 and continued one tree-removal request for additional information.

The action items included: a second extension for new construction at 1917 University Boulevard; driveway and patio modifications at 904 and 908 16th Avenue with a required 3-foot setback from the rear fence line; window sash replacements at 305 Seventeenth Avenue and 20 Monash Drive (wood sashes replaced with PVC/composite, no change to light patterns); construction of a rear deck and related rear-elevation alterations at 1707 University Boulevard; and an addition/enclosure and window replacements at 60 Sherwood Drive (the proposed fire pit was not considered and will go through expedited review). A separate request to remove two trees at 2111 Fourteenth Street was continued so the applicant can provide alternate designs, a clearer site plan and consultations (including the power company) requested by commissioners.

Why it matters: these approvals allow property owners in Tuscaloosa’s historic neighborhoods to proceed with construction or repairs that alter the exterior appearance of contributing structures. The commission bases decisions on the Code of Tuscaloosa (Chapter 20, Article 2) design guidelines and on the commission’s bylaws; several approvals included conditions and will require final inspection by city staff.

Most notable decisions and conditions

• 1917 University Boulevard (HPC 14-25): The commission approved a second extension of a previously granted certificate of appropriateness for new construction at the demoed site in the Druid City Historic District. City staff noted demolition…