Board approves Parts 1 and 2 for rehabilitation at 76 Abbott St., with archaeology review required

The Historic Architecture Review Board on June 18 approved Parts 1 and 2 of an ad valorem tax‑exemption application for 76 Abbott Street, a contributing building in the Abbott Tract National Register Historic District.

Staff explained the house is a frame‑vernacular 1½‑story residence with a project estimate of about $95,000, which satisfies the program’s minimum investment thresholds and the requirement that at least 25% of improvements be for exterior or foundation work. Staff also noted that the proposal includes temporarily elevating the house to replace inadequate foundation elements and that an archaeological review is required because the lot lies within an archaeological zone.

Applicant Charles Morehouse described termite damage found during siding removal and said structural work recommended by Swanson Structural would replace inadequate temporary supports with new piers and footings. He said the porch would remain and that the house is currently above flood level; he acknowledged the need for additional documentation on screening around piers and on potential chimney work when the house is lifted.

Board members asked for clarification of casing and trim details and emphasized avoiding unnecessary replacement of historic fabric. The board approved Parts 1 and 2 by roll call, with the staff condition that archaeological review and any necessary amendments be completed before Part 3 review.

Next steps include completing the required archaeological review and submitting detailed Part 3 documentation of completed work and cost breakdowns for final tax‑exemption certification.