Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Historic Preservation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commissioners press for brick, say faux wood 'nonstarter' for Main Street gateway
Summary
Commission members told staff they want the Alpine Fire Station remodel to model the future Main Street Gateway character: more brick, timber elements rather than faux wood, and consistent dark framing for windows and garage doors.
Commissioners spent substantial time debating exterior materials for the Alpine Fire Station remodel, telling staff they want the project to set a high standard for the Main Street Gateway Historic District. Several commissioners said faux wood or vinyl-like composite materials would undercut the district’s intended character.
One commissioner said, “the faux wood is an absolute nonstarter,” arguing the city should favor red brick and timber-frame details to model the look the commission wants from future Main Street projects. Commissioners emphasized that while the applicant submitted under the current code, the commission’s recommendation should be consistent with the small-area plan and the direction they have been developing for the Gateway Historic District.
Staff and the architect (Babcock Design) clarified the proposal uses stucco as a primary material with selective faux-wood veneer and brick veneer elements; commissioners urged maximizing brick where feasible and using dark aluminum framing for doors, windows and garage doors to ensure a cohesive appearance. The commission attached material and color conditions to its recommendation to city council.
