Hudson board orders site visit after heated debate over gazebo redesign and accessibility plan

The Hudson Architectural & Historic Board of Review voted Feb. 11 to table a decision and conduct a site visit after a lengthy discussion about the city’s proposal to alter the downtown bandstand and its surrounding plaza.

City community relations manager Jenna Stasick, who introduced the project, said the proposal grew out of budget‑cycle discussions and an effort to balance multiple uses of the site. "We first started discussing this project last year during the budget cycle," Stasick said, describing two concept options — one that includes an accessibility ramp and an expanded landing and a more conservative option that retains the existing railings.

Consultant Derek Carrillo described the accessibility rationale: "We're hoping to push that a little bit out and provide some type of landing in the front," he said, adding that the plan would add a sloped walkway and railings on grade to meet ADA approaches while minimizing structural change to the gazebo itself.

Multiple board members and commenters said the proposed changes — removing two railing sections, expanding the concrete footprint and introducing metal railings and a ramp — would substantially alter the gazebo’s proportions and visual character. "The metal handrails do not fit," a board member said during debate, and others warned that increasing concrete and removing historic rail sections would damage the structure’s appearance and its role as a photographic and ceremonial focal point.

Public comments captured on the city’s Let’s Talk Hudson forum also reflected split views; board members said they had read many resident remarks urging preservation of the gazebo’s historic look. Several members asked for more detailed drawings, dimensions and elevation drawings and said they wanted the board to see the site in person before a final determination. Board members emphasized the need for site stakings that show the proposed new footprint and for elevations that clarify railing design and materials.

The board did not vote on a preferred option. Instead it asked the city to return with detailed elevations, material specifications and a clearly staked outline of the proposed new concrete area and railing work; it also scheduled a site visit so members can assess impacts in place. The board instructed staff to coordinate the visit and to circulate any supplemental documentation prior to the next meeting.

The city manager’s office said the proposal aims to improve accessibility and reduce annual stage rental costs by enabling certain performances on the bandstand. City staff said they will review board feedback and present revised materials at a future meeting after the site visit.