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Commission postpones decision on demolition and new construction at 2514 Wooldridge Drive
Summary
After public comment from neighbors and applicants, the Historic Landmark Commission voted to postpone consideration of a demolition/new-construction application at 2514 Wooldridge Drive to allow additional documentation and review.
The Historic Landmark Commission on Oct. 1 postponed consideration of an application to demolish a circa‑1938 Georgian Revival house at 2514 Wooldridge Drive and approve new construction on two combined lots.
Staff described the property as a contributing resource in the Old West Austin National Register District. The staff report noted the building retains moderate integrity but has later alterations, and recommended commissioners weigh Clarence McCullough’s local-development associations against integrity issues when considering landmark eligibility. Several neighbors spoke in opposition and submitted photographic evidence and written letters arguing the house is a valuable example of Georgian/Colonial Revival architecture and that demolition would harm neighborhood character. Neighbors asked the commission to deny the demolition or delay action so alternatives could be explored.
Representatives for the applicant and the project architect said the proposed replacement house had been designed to respond to neighborhood scale and that earlier changes and additions to the existing house affect its integrity. The architect said the design used massing and materials to mitigate scale concerns. Both sides referenced prior reviews at the Architectural Review Committee.
Chair Heimstath moved to reopen the public hearing and postpone the item to allow commissioners to view additional historic photographs and to give the applicant and ARC time to address outstanding concerns. The motion carried; the commission postponed the demolition discussion. Commissioners noted the proposal raises integrity questions and asked staff and the applicant to provide historic images, clearer documentation about past alterations, and any additional ARC feedback before a final action.
Because the property is in a National Register district, commissioners also discussed the option to use the commission’s demolition‑delay authority (up to 180 days) if necessary. The applicant may present revised materials at the next meeting; the record shows the case will return for further consideration and public comment.
