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Commission Approves Rear-Yard Brick Paver Parking and Sliding Gate Option at 1039 Highland Street
Summary
The Historic Building Commission approved COA 2600216 to install permeable brick paver parking at the rear yard of 1039 Highland Street and to replace fencing with sliding gates; approval includes an option to add a pedestrian gate at a narrow, angled portion of the fence to be coordinated with staff.
The Columbus Historic Building Commission approved Certificate of Appropriateness application COA 2600216 for 1039 Highland Street, permitting a rear-yard permeable brick-paver parking area, replacement fencing and a sliding gate to facilitate vehicle maneuvering in a narrow alley, and authorizing staff to consider adding a pedestrian gate at the narrow, angled north section of the fence.
Staff summarized the application and the applicant’s revised site plan and photographs, noting the proposed pavers would be permeable and that the proposed sliding gate was intended to avoid blocking the alley. Staff recommended approval under city code 31.16.13 (site improvement standards) and the Victorian Village guidelines addressing fences and yards.
The applicant, sworn for testimony, explained the practical constraints of the alley: a swing gate that opens into the alley would impede access, so a sliding gate is preferred. Commissioners studied photographs and the updated site plan showing existing landscaping and fence locations, and discussed whether a pedestrian gate at the angled portion would be appropriate as a design and access accommodation.
One commissioner asked if a pedestrian gate could be provided instead of a full 20-foot opening; staff and the applicant explained the proposed sliding- gate configuration would allow vehicle access while keeping yard usability. Commissioners noted the alley contains a mix of historic and contemporary garages and fences and that the decision was specific to the alley’s unusual configuration; they emphasized this approval should not be treated as an across-the-board precedent.
A motion to approve COA 2600216 as submitted, with an option to add a pedestrian gate at the narrow north section subject to staff review, was moved, seconded and approved by voice vote. The commission noted the approval reflects the specific context of this alley; the transcript records the voice vote but does not include a numerical roll-call tally.
