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Preservation commission approves exterior changes for Star Block at 1829 Second Avenue
Summary
The Rock Island Preservation Commission approved a certificate of appropriateness to add a fire-rated door, masonry infill and a new exterior exit stair at the Star Block (1829 Second Avenue), with staff recommending poured concrete steps and a stipulation that new masonry match the original in color, texture and bonding.
The Rock Island Preservation Commission voted to approve a certificate of appropriateness for exterior alterations at the Star Block, a local landmark at 1829 Second Avenue, to provide independent fire-sprinkler access and a new exterior egress.
Community Development Department staff told the commission that the proposal would cut a new masonry opening for a 3070 fire-rated door, install an insulated hollow-metal door and infill the wall above the new opening with masonry supported by steel lintels. The project also calls for a new concrete deck and exit stair system on the east elevation; staff recommended Option B (concrete steps and metal railings) as most consistent with downtown design guidelines and the preservation ordinance.
Staff recommended poured concrete for masonry structures and proposed a stipulation that the masonry infill “match the color, texture, and bonding of the original historic masonry.” Staff also noted the city may coordinate the new stoop and stairs with an upcoming 19th Street sidewalk redevelopment, and that the applicant will install a temporary step for fire-safety compliance until the city’s improvements occur.
Applicant project team members identified themselves and described existing access and construction plans. Andy Fischer of Economic Growth Construction said an existing sidewalk vault access under a north-side window will be infilled and that basement access also exists through a rear stair at the adjacent El Patron restaurant: “There’s about a 3‑ft little door that goes down, but there’s access to the basement from the back side of El Patron in their kitchen,” Fischer said.
Commissioners discussed preserving the visual rhythm of the elevation, recommending a transom or simulated transom above the new door where the opening cannot be made to match the existing arch, and noted technical details for secondary elevations (treated 5x4 decking, 6x6 posts) and guardrail standards (top rail at 42 inches; baluster spacing under 4 inches).
A motion to approve the COA as described, with the clarifications suggested at the meeting, carried on a roll‑call vote. One member was recorded absent.
Next steps: the applicant will proceed with permit and construction coordination, including matching the masonry per the stipulation and coordinating timing with the city’s sidewalk work.
