Historic Preservation Commission approves design review for 16 Union Plaza to add windows and fire-escape platforms

The Bangor Historic Preservation Commission voted unanimously March 13 to approve a design review and certificate of appropriateness for 16 Union Plaza (Map Lot 042-266) in the Bangor Center Revitalization Area, allowing the owner to replace existing windows, add two new windows and install exterior fire-escape platforms to meet egress requirements.

The decision matters because the work affects a building inside the Bangor Center Revitalization Area and therefore must meet the design standards in city ordinance 71-11 as applied by the commission. The applicant said the changes are intended to bring the third-floor unit into compliance with fire code and to allow future interior changes tied to a phased sprinkling project.

Mark Wheaton, identified in the meeting as the applicant and owner, described the scope of work from the podium: "It's the Third Floor, and I'm replacing the full the windows that are there... I need to add 2, to bring it up to code... and I need to put fire escape platforms on, 2 on either end of the building." Wheaton and staff clarified that the proposal replaces four windows on the front, four in the rear and adds one new window on each side, with four new platform landings (two on either end) to provide egress onto exterior platforms.

Commissioners considered the submission against the criteria in section 71-11 (Bangor Center Revitalization Area) and voted separately on each required standard, citing exhibits 2–4 and 12 in the project packet. After the series of motions, the commission voted to approve the overall design review. Chair Edmond Suresky announced, "Motion passes successfully," after the final roll call.

Key technical clarifications recorded in the hearing: the window schedule submitted by the applicant listed nine units (eight at 42 by 58 inches and one at 78 by 60 inches); the applicant said the new windows will be double-hung and will match the historic appearance while replacing older, less efficient windows. The proposed fire-escape platforms will be attached to the existing brick façade using suspension chains and a 2-by-10 ledger embedded into the wall; the applicant said the granite sills will not be removed. Commissioners also heard that the second-floor window replacements are planned in a later phase after the building is sprinkled to meet code for additional dwelling units.

The commission and staff reminded the applicant of procedural limits and timelines: work must begin within six months and be completed within one year unless an extension is granted through the city's minor revision or extension processes. Staff also noted that the applicant may withdraw and reapply or request a minor revision if changes are needed before construction.

What happened (formal action): the commission recorded roll-call votes on the applicable 71-11 standards and on the final motion to issue a design review approval for 16 Union Plaza; all recorded votes were affirmative.

Next steps: the owner may apply for building permits consistent with the approved design; if the owner needs additional time or minor changes, the applicant was told to pursue the city's minor revision process.