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Tampa historic panel grants certificate for raised Hyde Park home after drainage and driveway conditions
Summary
The Tampa Historic Preservation Commission approved a certificate of appropriateness for renovations and a modest elevation at 825 Bayshore Blvd, requiring improved site drainage and that the applicant explore alternatives to a second curb cut with staff. The decision was unanimous.
The Tampa Historic Preservation and Architectural Review Commission on Nov. 6 unanimously approved a certificate of appropriateness for renovation and flood adaptation work at 825 Bayshore Boulevard in the Hyde Park Historic District, while adding conditions aimed at protecting neighbors and limiting new curb cuts.
Ron Vila, a planner with Historic Preservation, told the commission the proposal—ARC-25-0000240—seeks final approval to modify and elevate a contributing American Foursquare house built in 1922 and to make related site improvements. "This application is consistent with the Hyde Park design guidelines and the Secretary of the Interior standards for flood adaptation and rehabilitation of historic structures," Vila said.
Owners’ agent Alex Engleman said the family’s goal is "to preserve our home, protect it from flood waters and create a safe space for our family," and described work to retain the house’s historic massing while lowering the previously approved elevation. Architect Carlos Muller and Soul Design Studio presented drawings showing restored brick piers, a new front porch, breakaway walls and a proposed u-shaped drive intended to avoid backing into Bayshore.
Commission discussion focused on three main concerns: drainage and grading between the subject property and neighboring lots, the visibility and precedent of a second curb cut on Bayshore, and the extent of reconstruction versus restoration of historic porch elements. Neighbor Michael Sork spoke during public comment, saying he worried the site plan could leave "a lake between my house and their house" if drainage is not handled carefully.
Applicants said the project would not change the sidewalk grade and that civil analysis showed no net increase in flood displacement; civil engineer Eric Hendra reported a net export of 1,219.28 cubic feet and said the team planned on-site retention for half-inch rainfall events. Staff and applicants agreed to supply additional drainage details as a condition.
John Prokop moved to grant the certificate with two conditions requiring improved site drainage so the project does not create standing-water problems for neighbors and that the applicant revisit and explore with staff an alternative to a second curb cut to meet safety and delivery needs; the motion was seconded and passed by voice vote.
The approval allows the owners to proceed with the approved restoration and resilience measures, subject to the conditions recorded in the hearing minutes. Transportation permitting and final building review will still be required for the driveway and flood-mitigation details.
