Historic Preservation Board approves patio at 2017 Wood Avenue

The Colorado Springs Historic Preservation Board voted unanimously Nov. 3 to approve a report of acceptability for a new covered patio, slider doors, pavers and a fireplace at 2017 Wood Avenue.

Staff presenter William Gray told the board the project replaces an existing rear patio, would not affect the home's visible historic portions and met all criteria for a report of acceptability. Gray said staff received two supportive emails and three supportive phone calls and no opposition during the public-comment period.

An applicant representative described the work as an update to an existing feature, saying the project "is just improving on the space that was already there" and that it would not be visible from the front of the property.

Board members asked technical questions about grading and a downspout shown in renderings; staff acknowledged limitations of the renderings and suggested tie-in solutions to the existing drainage. Following discussion, a motion to approve the report of acceptability was made, seconded and then called for a roll-call vote. Chair Lowenberg, Board Member Fitzsimmons, Board Member Bebout and Council member Hines each voted "aye," and the motion passed unanimously.

Gray reviewed appeal rights after the vote, citing the city's unified development code and advising that an affected party may appeal Historic Preservation Board actions to city council within 10 days by filing notice and paying a $176 fee with the city clerk. Gray clarified the appeal deadline date for the action.

The applicant said they hoped to begin construction by Thanksgiving; no formal start date or building-permit details were recorded in the meeting minutes.

The board's action was limited to the report of acceptability; no ordinance or code change was approved as part of this vote.