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Commission approves exterior encapsulation for window infill at 100 Rio Grande to address safety and program needs
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Summary
El Paso Community College won commission approval to encapsulate (not remove) several basement‑level windows at its 100 Rio Grande building for security, mold and lead remediation; the college will preserve the openings while sealing them behind stucco or paneling subject to staff approval of color and texture.
The Historic Landmark Commission approved staff‑recommended modifications allowing encapsulation of basement‑level windows at 100 Rio Grande Avenue, a Henry Trost building, to address repeated breakage, water infiltration and hazardous‑material concerns while retaining the window openings for future restoration.
Robert Samanillo, associate director of design and construction for El Paso Community College, said the building is experiencing frequent glass breakage and water infiltration, and that lead and asbestos testing required remediation; the college also plans to use the space for a nursing program and needs a safe, dry interior for students. Staff recommended painting or placing painted wooden boards, a stucco frame or a visually differentiated infill so the historic openings remain legible from the exterior.
Commissioners and the college representative agreed that a non‑historic brick veneer would give a false historic appearance; instead the approved approach allows an exterior encapsulation (stucco or painted panel) that differentiates old from new while sealing the windows. The commission’s motion approved staff’s recommendation with the modification that staff review and approve color and texture.
Next steps: the college will implement an encapsulation solution for the specified windows and may return later with a full replacement plan for additional windows when funding permits.
