9-19-24 Historic District Commission Packet
Historic District Commission. 19 septanm 2024.
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CITY OF DOVER, DELAWARE
HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION MEETING
Thursday, September 19, 2024 at 3:30 PM
City Hall Council Chambers, 15 Loockerman Plaza, Dover, Delaware
AGENDA
IN-PERSON and VIRTUAL MEETING NOTICE
The Historic District Commission Meeting for September 19, 2024, will be held in City Hall Council
Chambers. The public is welcome to attend in person. The Meeting will also be provided as a Virtual
Meeting using Webex, an audio/video conferencing system as an electronic means of communication.
See the participation information below to join by phone or computer.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION INFORMATION
City of Dover Historic District Commission Meeting of September 19, 2024
Join by Phone: 1-650-479-3208
Access code: 253 339 19792
Password from Phones: 36837432
Join Online: https://bit/ly/HDCMeeting9192024
Webinar Number: 2533 391 9792
Webinar password: DoverHDC
If you are new to Webex get the app now at https://www.webex.com/ to be ready when the meeting
starts. For problems accessing the meeting, please call the Planning Office at (302) 736-7196.
Written comments are accepted via mail to City of Dover - Historic District Commission, P.O. Box 475
Dover DE 19903 and via email at CompPlan@dover.de.us
WELCOME
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Adoption of Minutes of June 20, 2024
COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS
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HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION MEETING - September 19, 2024 PAGE 2
Summary of Activity
2. Summary of Applications 2023 and 2024
3. Summary of Architectural Review Certificates for 2024
Department of Planning & Inspections Updates
SPECIAL RECOGNITION
4. Resolution honoring the service of Jonathan N. H. Street to the Historic District Commission
NEW APPLICATIONS
5. HI-24-06 Delaware Supreme Court Building Addition and Renovation at 55 The Green -
Public Hearing and Review for Action on the Architectural Review Certification associated
with the construction of a one-story addition and renovation to the Delaware Supreme Court
Building with site improvements. The property is zoned IO (Institutional and Office Zone)
and subject to the H (Historic District Zone) and the SWPOZ (Source Water Protection
Overlay Zone). The property is located on the east side of The Green and to the east of South
State Street. The owner of record is the State of Delaware. Address: 55 The Green. Tax
Parcel: ED-05-077.09-05-32.00-000. Council District 4. The project is also subject to review
of Administrative Site Plan S-24-15.
NEW BUSINESS
Review of Permits Referred to Commission
OLD BUSINESS
Certified Local Government (CLG) Program
Implementation of 2019 Comprehensive Plan
ADJOURN
Posted: September 12, 2024
THE AGENDA ITEMS AS LISTED MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED IN SEQUENCE. PURSUANT TO
29 DEL. C. §10004(e)(2), THIS AGENDA IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE TO INCLUDE THE ADDITION
OR THE DELETION OF ITEMS, INCLUDING EXECUTIVE SESSIONS, WHICH ARISE AT THE
TIME OF THE MEETING
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Item 1.
CITY OF DOVER
HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
JUNE 20, 2024
The Meeting of the City of Dover Historic District Commission was held on Thursday, June 20,
2024, at 3:30 PM as an In-Person meeting in the City Hall Council Chambers (anchor location)
and virtually using the videoconferencing system Webex. With Chairman Czerwinski presiding,
the other members present were Ms. Horsey, Mrs. Richardson, and Mr. Street. Mrs. Mason was
absent.
Planning Office Staff members present were Mrs. Melson-Williams, Ms. Katherine Oehmke, and
Assistant City Manager Sharon Duca (assisting with management of the Department of Planning
and Inspections).
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Mr. Street moved for approval of the agenda as presented, seconded by Ms. Horsey, and the vote
was unanimously carried 4-0. Mrs. Mason was absent from the meeting.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES OF THE REGULAR HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
MEETING OF MAY 16, 2024
Mrs. Richardson moved for approval of the Meeting Minutes of May 16, 2024, seconded by Ms.
Horsey, and approved 3-0. Mr. Street abstained from the motion.
COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS
Summary of Applications for 2023 and 2024
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that the Commission reviewed a total of 5 applications in 2023.
All of them are either complete or underway. With the Permit Referral that was reviewed for 153
S. Bradford Street, they were initialing looking to demolish the second floor of that building.
However, after meeting with you, they re-evaluated their options and brought forth a Permit to
complete renovations and repairs of the masonry instead; thus, keeping the full building intact.
The renovation work is underway. For 2024, as of today the Commission is reviewing their fifth
application. Two of the applications (HI-24-02 and HI-24-03) were the Request for Demolition of
the buildings at 148 S. Bradford Street and 150 S. Bradford Street. The initial request was denied
for Architectural Review Certification for Demolition of those properties. The applicant filed an
Appeal which is permitted under the provisions of the Zoning Ordinance. The Appeal on both
applications was heard by the Planning Commission on June 17, 2024. The Planning Commission
ultimately had a motion that reversed the decision of the Historic District Commission and has
thus granted the Architectural Review Certification to allow for Demolition of both buildings. The
other application that you heard last month, HI-24-04 Legislative Hall Parking Garage project,
continues to move through a regulatory process. They had to file an Application to the Board of
Adjustment for several variances related to floodplain requirements for that property. The
application was heard this morning. They successfully received the two variance requests. That
project will need to file a Site Development Plan for Planning Commission review as its next step.
Mrs. Melson-Williams asked if there were any questions; there were none.
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Item 1.
CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION JUNE 20, 2024
Summary of Architectural Review Certifications for 2024
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that there had been a total of 13 applications and there was a total of
4 Permits in the Historic District through the end of May. Only one of them, mentioned as the
Fence Permit at 146 S. State Street, involved the Historic District Commission.
The other Permit Applications were eligible for review by Planning Staff either in review of
exterior projects, a couple of sign requests, and a number of Roof Permits. A lot of times the Roof
Permits are not in visible locations; so, that's a relatively straightforward authorization. There are
Building Permits that involve only the interior of buildings; they're just not subject to Architectural
Review Certification.
Mrs. Melson-Williams asked if there were any questions; there were none.
Department of Planning & Inspections Updates
Mrs. Melson-Williams noted that the City of Dover has July 4th as a holiday; additionally, Friday,
July 5th has been declared a special holiday for the City. The City offices will not be open. There
will also be a delay for trash and recycling for City residents. Any filing deadlines that were set
for July 5th are moved to July 8th.
NEW APPLICATIONS
HI-24-05 Building at 120 S. Governors Avenue: Demolition – Public Hearing and Review for
Action on Architectural Review Certification for the demolition of existing commercial building
(former Acme grocery store and other more recent tenants). The parcel contains 1.70 +/- acres with
a 19,136 SF building. The property is zoned C-2 (Central Commercial Zone) and subject to H
(Historic District Zone). The property is located on the west side of South Governors Avenue and
halfway between Reed Street and West Loockerman Street. The owner of record is Downtown
Dover Development Corporation c/o Downtown Dover Partnership. Property Address: 120 S.
Governors Avenue, Dover. Tax Parcel: ED-05-077.09-01-44.00-000. Council District 4.
Mrs. Melson-Williams gave a brief overview of the project. The present location is a multi-tenant
commercial building. Its last tenants were a retail store and a Child Daycare Center facility. The
proposal today is for demolition of the building. This location contains a twentieth century
commercial building, as noted divided into several tenant spaces. The building is located within
the boundaries of the National Register of Historic Places as part of a Historic District,
specifically the Victorian Dover Historic District. The image on the screen includes the inventory
statement for this building. At the time of the nomination, it was identified as an “intrusion.” In
today's world with historic districts that would be considered as a non-contributing building to
that National Register Historic District. The Victorian Dover Historic District basically focused
on a different era of building here in Dover. There are a number of historic maps that we can take
a look at. This property has been a lot of things over time. The Sanborn Map Series is probably
the best map series showing history. At one point there was a school building, there was a
church on this property, but ultimately by the mid-20th century those buildings as well as some
other residential buildings were long gone. In the late 1960’s (1966-1970), the site is redeveloped
with this existing masonry commercial building that we are looking at today. Today this is the
current view of the building. You can see it kind of sits back on the property. It has a low wide
sloping roof; this is the front view that would be from South Governors Avenue.
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Item 1.
CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION JUNE 20, 2024
The project proposal is to demolish this building. It was at one point an Acme grocery store and
has other tenants since then. The applicant in their narrative outlined challenges about its upkeep.
They do also manage the parking that surrounds this building. The location is within some of the
potential redevelopment opportunities that the Transforming Downtown Dover: Capital City
2030 Plan was envisioning. What's shown on the screen is a concept that was in that
Transforming Downtown Dover Plan. However, we are not looking at any future redevelopment
today. We are just considering a demolition of the existing building. The Historic District
Commission is charged with looking at the Design Standards and Guidelines for the City of
Dover Historic District Zone. That document as part of Chapter 4 lists a series of specific criteria
that would be evaluated when it comes to demolition. As part of the Staff Report on this
Application, those series of five criteria are found page 4. They deal with determining the
financial implications looking at the significance of the individual building, if redevelopment is
being proposed to look at new structure versus what exists, then criteria 4 is looking at what the
adequate recordation of the property should be, and if the properties are to be left vacant and how
it's being treated for that location. As part of the Staff Review, we do have a series of comments
and recommendations that are included in the Report on pages 4 and 5. We did look at those
same criteria and made note of it being deemed non-contributing as part of the National Register
of Historic Places and that there are no specific redevelopment plans that we are focused on
today. Staff is recommending approval of the Architectural Review Certificate to demolish the
building finding that it is a more modern intrusion into the historic area. While the overall
massing of the building is maintained from its initial construction, the detailing has certainly
been changed out over the years. You don't see the full glass storefront or entry details. Staff is
recommending that any available documentation about the building, exterior photographs, and
the like be gathered to amend to the survey record that exists for the property. We have a series of
conditions that we suggest related to demolition just to clarify those activities on the site should
that be the ultimate outcome.
Mr. Jonathan Street stated that he has resigned his position on the (Downtown Dover
Partnership) Board. He was a former member of the Board and of the Executive Committee. I no
longer sit on that Board and to my knowledge Becker Morgan (his employer) is not contracted
for any work on this property. I do not see this as a conflict with me taking a place in discussions
and motions. He asked the members and Mrs. Melson-Williams if they agreed. Mrs. Melson-
Williams replied that the Bylaws for the Historic District Commission do note a provision for
conflict-of-interest determinations; and those include property ownership within a distance of the
property or some type by financial interest in the project. I don't think you have either one of
those situations, but certainly if you do not feel you have a conflict, I think we can go along with
that. You certainly were part of the Downtown Dover Partnership at one point in time. But as
noted, you currently are not.
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Item 1.
CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION JUNE 20, 2024
Representative: Diane Laird, Executive Director, Downtown Dover Partnership (DDP)
Ms. Diane Laird stated that she really feels it's important to note that the Becker Morgan Group
may have an interest in this project, but she was not positive about that. There has been no hire,
but they have been discussed as a potential candidate. Mr. Street mentioned that was true, but
that would be true with any project Downtown or in the State. Ms. Laird mentioned okay, very
good. Thank you.
Ms. Diane Laird stated that she was joined here today by her colleague Mr. Ken Anderson who is
the Downtown Dover Partnership Property Development Director and on Webex phone we have
Meagan Whetstone who's an architect with Mosaic Development Partners who is our project
development team. We appreciate the opportunity to present another critical step in the Capital
City 2030 Master Plan’s set of priority projects today. As Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned we
are here in support of the Application, the request for an Architectural Review Certificate for
Demolition of 120 S. Governors Avenue (the former Acme Grocery Store). More recently this
building was occupied by daycare center and an auto parts store. Both recently vacated.
Currently, only minimal utilities are active as required by the City for any temporarily vacant
building. The parcel contains 1.7 acres with just about 19,000 square feet in the building. The
property had been zoned C-2 and is located in the Historic District Zone overlay. You're likely
familiar with this property that fronts on the west side of South Governors Avenue and lies
halfway between Reed Street and West Loockerman Street. The back of the building faces New
Street. For well over ten years, the Downtown Dover Partnership has owned and leased this
property to two tenants. As previously mentioned, the building is now vacant. We've secured
the property by a chain link fence at present to prevent further trespassing and break-ins. The
structure of the property was built around 1970 according to the National Register of Historic
Places Historic District inventory in which the structure was described as mentioned by Mrs.
Melson-Williams as an “intrusion” and deemed it noncontributing. Pending your approval today,
the property will need to undergo a process for remediation of contamination that's been
discovered. You will hear a little bit more about that from my colleague. This will be followed by
a process of solicitation for demolition of the structure, which will commence as early as within
90 days of your approval if granted. We anticipate the new construction would begin in less than
a year. The process will be concurrent with our application for Architectural Review Certification
for the design and replacement structure. It’s conceptually envisioned as a multi-level, mixed
use, mixed income structure that would include approximately 150 residential apartments as well
as proposed ground floor retail opportunities including a grocery store, a coffee shop, a fitness
and wellness center, and a daycare facility. Even though the building is located within the
boundaries of the local National Register of Historic Places Historic District and specifically the
Victorian Dover Historic District, we agreed with the disposition outlined in the National
Register inventory description in which 120 South Governors is deemed a noncontributing
building to the District. As the owner of the building and component of Dover’s historic
landscape, the DDP plan for the site supports the Capital City 2030: Transforming Downtown
Dover Master Plan and will help set the stage for a strong sustainable future for the Downtown
business district and neighboring community of Dover. The site and the proposed replacement
structure is subject to the Historic District Commission's approvals will ensure a Victorian Dover
Historic District maintains an overwhelming majority of its assets, character, and intrinsic value
throughout the transformation that's associated with the Capital City 2030 Master Plan.
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Item 1.
CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION JUNE 20, 2024
Presentation
Mr. Ken Anderson, Property Development Director for the DDP introduced himself as the next
speaker. The Design Standards and Guidelines for the City of Dover Historic Districts Zone in
Chapter 4 entitled New Construction, Additions, Demolition and Relocation “starting at page 10
in entitled “Demolition” provides the DDP with guidelines regarding the criteria to be
thoughtfully considered prior to the demolition of any structure for any purpose in the City of
Dover Historic District. For a lot of those Guidelines, we offer the following to justify our
request to proceed with the demolition of 120 South Governors Avenue. The 120 South
Governors Avenue property is not being demolished because of catastrophic damage or neglect.
Unfortunately, the property and its immediate surrounding environment have increasingly
become a go-to location for systemic loitering, vacancy, drug dealing, after hours trespassing,
and other nuisance and illegal activities. The City of Dover Police and the DDP Staff make
regular visitation to the site to maintain cleanliness, security to the building, and order to the site.
Nevertheless, this site continues to threaten public safety. The DDP's proposed demolition of this
property is synergistic with critical components of the Capital City 2030:Transforming
Downtown Dover Master Plan and supports the objectives of the City of Dover’s 2019
Comprehensive Plan, including the overall positive sentiments expressed from the community
during the development and the vetting of the 2030 Master Plan. The assessment of that Plan by
the State of Delaware resulted in a recent award of $25 million toward both the Mobility Center
across the street from 120 South Governors Avenue and the predevelopment costs associated
with the site preparation of 120 South Governors Avenue site. The 120 South Governors Avenue
site although within the Downtown Dover Historic District, is not a note worthy source of
revenue to the City of Dover and has been assessed by the City of Dover Planning Department
and the National Register of Historic Places as an intrusion. This deemed it a non-contributing
building in the Historic District. The projected adaptive reuse of 120 South Governors Avenue is
a highly anticipated priority mixed use project as recommended in the Capital City 2030:
Transforming Downtown Dover Master Plan. We look forward to presenting our design concept
for that structure and working towards an Architectural Review Certificate for design at the
appropriate time. If deemed necessary, the DDP will facilitate the recordation of archival
photographs of the property prior to demolition. If approved for demolition, the DDP will engage
a demolition contractor through a formal solicitation process, which gives preferences to support
local contractors. An environmental assessment ACM (or Asbestos Containing Materials) Phase
1 Survey has already been completed at the site. Approximately 220 square feet of Category 1:
Non-friable ACM has been identified at the site. This material requires removal and remediation
by a Delaware Certified Asbestos Abatement Contractor prior to any demolition activities that
could impact these materials. From a menagerie of environmental, development and safety
reasons, we will expeditiously abate the discovered contamination and with your approval today
begin the process of soliciting for the demolition of the structure. After this, we will work with
our developer who is on the Webex today and return to this Commission to request an
Architectural Review Certificate for the design of the replacement structure. Just a brief word
about demolition. We anticipate a traditional demolition process using the work course of
standard demolitions; an excavator working from the top to the bottom of the structure and then
from the front to the rear. An active example of this demo process can now be seen at the western
gateway leading into Downtown Dover at 680-684 Forest Avenue as demolition is almost
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Item 1.
CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION JUNE 20, 2024
complete at what used to be the Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing and its associated garage
warehouse structure. Let me now turn the presentation back over to Diane Laird.
Ms. Diane Laird stated that in summary, the City of Dover Comprehensive Plan recommends
balancing preservation, development activity, and planning initiatives to strengthen Loockerman
Street and adjacent areas. As you are aware, the Loockerman Street corridor is over 50 % vacant
and the area is in dire need of revitalization. The Capital City 2030 Plan calls for increased
density by adding more residents. It calls for varied modes of transportation including cars,
bikes, micro-transits, and buses. It also calls for a coordinated architectural approach that honors
the history while introducing new designs that will compliment the historic landscape. This Plan
strategizes to a very bright future for Downtown beginning at this site and the heart of Dover. We
appreciate your thoughtful consideration of this request and approval for an Architectural Review
Certificate for Demolition of 120 South Governors Avenue in line with recommendations of the
City of Dover Planning Staff. Mr. Anderson, Ms. Whetstone, and I are available for questions if
you have any.
Chairman Czerwinski said thank you very much. Do we have any questions from the Board?
Ms. Richardson mentioned that she did not have any questions.
Mr. Street said thank you for recognizing that the Historic District has Guidelines and at least
addressing them. I don’t disagree with you that there is no real significance to this building. It’s a
pole barn in the middle of the City. But thank you for recognizing that we have standards and
addressing those issues.
Mr. Street mentioned he had a question for Staff. He asked if Staff could elaborate on number 3
recommendation and the documentation of a building. How extensive do you want the existing
building documented? Mrs. Melson-Williams from the Planning Staff replied that this is on page
five of the Report, Item #3 where Staff recommends an exterior photographs series and any other
available building information that may be in the owner's records. It suggests that it should be
added to the Cultural Resource Survey and there's a file number for that. The Cultural Resource
Survey Records maintained by the State Historic Preservation Office, and there are particular
forms and process to gather that information. Certainly, a photograph series would include
images of all four sides of the building. Key details are also something that is typically
photographed. I don't know that in this case, full measured drawings would necessarily be
appropriate. There may be some floor plan information that may be already available by the
owner based on what they may have in their records that could certainly be offered as additional
information before the building could potentially be demolished. It's an opportunity to gather
information. It may lend to future research for buildings of this era in which we probably don't
have a lot of survey information about the 20th century buildings because typically they're not
thought of as historic. But certainly, with the estimated date of around 1970 that puts it at least 50
years old by my calculations. Certainly, an opportunity is there. I think their package of
information included a number of those exterior photographs, but we would look to have them
appropriately prepared. Staff can coordinate and work with the Applicants about those proper
methods. I will tell you that I am not totally up on that because the last time I did survey
documentation, we were still doing everything with black and white photographs and negatives
and printing. I think they have processes that deal with the digital world that exists today. We can
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Item 1.
CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION JUNE 20, 2024
provide guidance and connection to the State Historic Preservation Office and the survey
methods.
Ms. Horsey mentioned that she did have a comment based upon what Mrs. Melson-Williams
stated. I totally agree with the documentation of this building just like the other two that are on
Bradford Street that are slated for demolition. It's crucial that just because it's a pole type
building that it is still a documented record of what Downtown Dover had about 1970. So yes, it
is important to do that. But that's my only comment.
Chairman Czerwinski commented while this structure is considered non-contributing, you know,
I would disagree that “it's not historic.” Whatever we do here today, we need to acknowledge that
this building represents an important time in Dover’s history where it's transitioning from where
Downtown Dover used to be the center hub of activity, and it slowly heads out to Route 13 and
DuPont Highway. This represented the last Downtown grocery store that was in existence before
everything moved out to Edgehill on Route 13. Remember history doesn't end at a certain date.
History is perpetual; it's always in action. As we move forward, what's going to be important
here is all these structures that were built in fifties and sixties that we had discovered as being
non- historic are now becoming historic. It becomes part of that brief era of American
exceptionalism where many people, not all, would be able to afford a house and a car with a
carport on a single income. Again, it's tied into the growth of Dover Air Force Base. It's
important to acknowledge that when we're moving this City forward that we acknowledge the
structures that we're dealing with. This might be non-contributing, but I would probably disagree
with that because it did represent important time in this City’s history.
Mrs. Richardson mentioned that it's called Mid-century Modern. Chairman Czerwinski thanked
Mrs. Richardson for the architectural term.
Chairman Czerwinski asked if there were any other questions?
The public hearing is open.
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that she believed she had several individuals online
(participating virtually on Webex). She first went to Zach Prebula.
Mr. Zach Prebula mentioned that he was with Kent Economic Partnership. We are the Economic
Development Organization for Kent County, and we focus on business attraction, business
retention, and expansion. Currently, it is challenging to help businesses locate or relocate to
Downtown Dover. There are just buildings that don't facilitate those needs and buildings like this
one that have kind of a negative environment around them. So, we are in support of the Demolition
of this building because it will allow us to continue to attract businesses and help local businesses
expand and grow into Downtown Dover. We are in support of this and ask if the Commission
could please approve. Thank you.
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned another virtual participant appears to be Gigi Windley.
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Item 1.
CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION JUNE 20, 2024
Ms. Gigi Windley of 725 Bicentennial Blvd., Dover, Delaware mentioned that she was involved
with Main Street Dover for many years and helped to start up that organization. In doing so, I
was also on the Downtown Development Corporation, the predecessor too or what is there today.
I wanted to just give a little history of that property. It was vacated by Acme, and it was vacated
and not allowed to be leased so that they could not have competition to the new Acme on the
highway. It created a vacuum for Downtown Dover. I just think that history is very important
because the Downtown Development Corporation did acquire it and held it and tried to
adaptively reuse it. So, within your history related to this particular building, I think that's an
important point to make. The City files in and of themselves should have some history related to
this. I am in support of demolishing this particular building.
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned Mr. Chair, that is the two folks that were available online. I
will note that Meagan Whetstone from Mosaic Development Partners was also online should we
have needed any questions related to that group as part of the Applicant's presentation on the
project. She is present if you have any questions for them as well.
Chairman Czerwinski asked if anybody have any questions for Mosaic at all? There were no
questions.
The public hearing was closed see no one else to speak.
Chairman Czerwinski asked if anyone has anything they want to discuss about this project before
we move forward with a motion?
Mr. Street moved for approval of the Architectural Review Certification Application HI-24-05 for
the demolition of the existing commercial building (former Acme grocery store and other more
recent tenants) with the Staff recommendations with one exception on the Recommendations
number 4B (all utilities must be properly capped and or abandoned). I'd like to add the statement
“as required by the City of Dover,” not necessarily per the regulations. There's going to be a gap
between the Demolition of the building and the construction of the new building. If the City only
requires them to be capped at the property line, I would like the Applicant to have the ability to
do that. Otherwise, they would have to be abandoned at the main and that could be costly, and
they have to do that anyway. It was seconded by Mrs. Richardson.
The vote was unanimously carried 4-0.
NEW BUSINESS
Review of Permits Referred to Commission
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned that there are no new Permits that we need to bring to you
today.
OLD BUSINESS
Certified Local Government (CLG) Program
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Item 1.
CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION JUNE 20, 2024
Mrs. Melson-Williams mentioned I believe there's still an opportunity that is open to us about
that CLG Grant. We did indicate our interest in pursuing that. I have not had any opportunity to
follow up on that in order to get a Grant Agreement in place. I believe we are within the time
frame of opportunity for that. We will see if our workload lightens up to move forward.
Implementation of 2019 Comprehensive Plan
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that she did not have any particular items related to that to bring to
you today.
Chairman Czerwinski mentioned that he would like to thank and acknowledge Mr. Jonathan Street
for the service he has done with the Historic District Commission. I just want to wish him good
luck in the future. We thank him for everything he's done for us, and he will be missed.
Mr. Street said thank you. It has been quite an experience. I think we all bring something to the
table. I enjoyed it, so thank you.
Ms. Horsey stated that even though in your absence Jonathan, there's probably an opportunity to
rejoin us once you return. It will not be forever that you are away. Mr. Street replied that we
will see.
Mr. Street moved to adjourn the meeting seeing no other items of business, seconded by Mrs.
Richardson, and unanimously carried 4-0 of the members present.
Meeting adjourned at 4:24 PM
Sincerely,
Maretta Savage-Purnell
Secretary
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City of Dover Historic District Commission
Item 2.
Summary of Applications 2023
Updated thru September 3, 2024
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-23-01 Lands of Shank 34 The Green Site Plan for Parking Review for Architectural Review Site Plan granted conditional approval by
Shack, LLC: Lot Reconfiguration Certification of Site Plan; Public Historic District Commission.
Parking Lot Improvements Hearing and Review by HDC Administrative Site Plan review completed:
Improvements 1/19/2023. Recommended approval Final Plan approval issued May 2023. of
of ArchRevCert for project. Administrative Building Permit #23-1668
issued 11/6/2023 to commence
construction. Improvements are associated
with future Kent County Family Court
Project. Project underway.
HI-23-02 Referral of Fence 147 S. New Street Fence Permit Permit #23-781 referred to HDC by Permit Application received 5/12/2023 and
Permit #23-781 City Planner for consultation on Referred to the HDC for consultation.
at 147 S. New Architectural Review Certification; Permit to be approved for issuance per
Street 5/18/2023 HDC recommended HDC action of 5/18/2023. Permit issued
approval of ArchRevCert to allow 6/6/2023. Fence installed.
height of 6-feet constructed of wood
materials that may be stained (no
vinyl fence).
HI-23-03 Referral of Permit 43 The Green, John Sign Permit for Permit #23-987 referred to HDC by Permit Application received and Referred
#23-987 at 43 Bell House Informational Kiosk City Planner for consultation on to the HDC for consultation. Project is
The Green Architectural Review Certification; installation of information kiosk of 9 SF as
7/20/2023 HDC recommended post and panel style sign to display
approval of ArchRevCert to allow information on the First State Heritage
kiosk style sign subject to use of Park activities. Permit approved for
certain materials. issuance per HDC action of 7/20/2023
requiring the use of black metal material or
painted wood for kiosk. Sign installed.
HI-23-04 Referral of Sign 32 W. Loockerman Sign Permit for 2 Permit #23-1462 referred to HDC by Permit Application received and Referred
Permit #23-1462 Street Business Tenants City Planner for consultation on to the HDC for Consultation. Project is
at 32 W. Architectural Review Certification; installation of signage for two tenants.
Loockerman St 10/19/2023 HDC recommended HDC recommended Revised Signage.
approval of ArchRevCert for window Permit approved for part of window sign
signs and signs on metal band. portion of project; sign installed.
12
Paj 13
City of Dover Historic District Commission
Item 2.
Summary of Applications 2023
Updated thru September 3, 2024
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-23-05 Referral of 153 S. Bradford Demolition Permit Permit #23-1521 referred to HDC by Building condemned by Code Enforcement,
Demolition Street for Demolition of City Planner for consultation on Case #23-3847. Permit Application
Permit #23-1521 Second Floor Architectural Review Certification; received for Partial Demolition and
at 153 S. deferred from October 19, 2023 HDC Referred to the HDC for Consultation.
Bradford St Meeting at request of Applicant. Project seeks to demolish the second floor
Consideration began at November 16, of the masonry building and construct flat
2023 HDC Meeting; action pending roof system. Supplemental Engineering
submission of additional information. Report received 2/5/2024 and forwarded
to Code Enforcement Staff. Permit #23-
1521 was withdrawn as new Permit #24-
427 for renovation/repair of masonry filed
in April 2024 and approved for issuance.
Renovation work complete.
13
Paj 14
City of Dover Historic District Commission
Item 2.
Summary of Applications 2024
Updated thru September 3, 2024
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-24-01 Referral of Fence 146 S. State Street Fence Permit Permit #23-1868 referred to HDC by Permit Application received 12/13/2023
Permit #23-1868 City Planner for consultation on and Referred to the HDC for consultation.
at 146 S. State Architectural Review Certification; The Fence is subject to Code Enforcement
Street 1/28/2024 HDC deferred action on Case #23-3983 for installation without a
ArchRevCert seeking additional Permit. It is a vinyl fence that is six foot in
information on its materials, location, height. HDC granted ArchRevCert subject
and another nearby fence. 2/15/2024 to conditions: Fence #2 must be wood and
HDC granted ArchRevCert subject to 4 feet in height. Fence #1 due to location
conditions. can remain at vinyl at 6 feet. Permit issued
in April 2024.
HI-24-02 Building 148 S. Bradford Review for Public Hearing and Review for Request to demolish existing building
Demolition at Street Architectural Architectural Review Certification by (currently used as offices). HDC denied
148 S. Bradford Certification for HDC on 5/16/2024. Action to deny ArchRevCert for demolition. Applicant filed
Street Demolition ArchRevCert. an Appeal to the Planning Commission;
Appeal considered by Planning
Commission on 6/17/2024. Planning
Commission granted approval of
ArchRevCert to allow Demolition of
Building.
HI-24-03 Building 150 S. Bradford Review for Public Hearing and Review for Request to demolish existing building
Demolition at Street Architectural Architectural Review Certification by (currently used as offices). HDC denied
150 S. Bradford Certification for HCD on 5/16/2024. Action to deny ArchRevCert for demolition. Applicant filed
Street Demolition ArchRevCert. an Appeal to the Planning Commission,
Appeal considered by Planning
Commission on 6/17/2024.Planning
Commission granted approval of
ArchRevCert to allow Demolition of
Building.
14
Paj 15
City of Dover Historic District Commission
Item 2.
Summary of Applications 2024
Updated thru September 3, 2024
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-24-04 Legislative Hall 425 East Avenue, Site Plan Review for Public Hearing and Review for Site Development Plan review for new
Parking Garage at corner of East Architectural Review Recommendation on Architectural Parking Garage Structure and associated
425 East Avenue Avenue/ E. Water Certification Review Certification by HDC on site improvements. Recommendation on
Street and Martin 5/16/2024. Recommended approval ArchRevCert will be forwarded to Planning
Luther King Jr. of ArchRevCert for project. Commission for future consideration
Boulevard South during Site Plan review process.
Application filed with Board of Adjustment
for variances related to floodplain
requirements; BOA considered on
6/20/2024 and granted approval of two
variances (V-24-01). Site Plan Application
(S-24-14) filed and scheduled to be
considered by Planning Commission on
9/16/2024.
HI-24-05 Building 120 S. Governors Review for Public Hearing and Review for Request to demolish existing commercial
Demolition at Avenue Architectural Architectural Review Certification by building (was Acme grocery store then
120 S. Governors Certification for HDC on 6/20/2024. Granted approval recent tenants of auto parts store and a
Avenue Demolition of ArchRevCert to allow Demolition of Child Day Care Center). Demolition Permit
building. filed for review.
HI-24-06 Delaware 55 The Green Site Plan Review for Public Hearing and Review for Action Review of ArchRevCert for one story
Supreme Court Architectural Review on Architectural Review Certification Building Addition. Project will be subject to
Building Addition Certification by HDC scheduled for 9/19/2024. an Administrative Site Plan review.
and Renovations
15
Paj 16
2024 Permit Activity in the Historic District
Item 3.
Updated thru 8-31-2024
DATE PERMIT # LOCATION TYPE ACTION ON ARCHITECTURAL NOTES
REVIEW CERTIFICATE
1/26/2024 24-67 28 W Loockerman St, The Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovations - storage area
Hive Renovations required for interior work. wall.
2/21/2024 23-887 29 N State St, Office Sign Permit Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Installation of monument sign in
required for interior work. State building sign format.
2/5/2024 24-84 3 S American Avenue, Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovations of office space.
Offices Renovations required for interior work.
2/23/2024 24-159 89 Kings Hwy SW, Roof Permit No Planning Staff Review. Roof replacement project.
Richardson & Robbins
Building
2/26/2024 24-198 401 Federal Street, Building Permit - Exterior Staff Approval Repair and reconstruction of ADA
Townsend Building Improvements ramp system on north side of
building and parking lot areas
improvements.
3/4/2024 21-1660 215 W Loockerman Street, Building Permit - Exterior Staff Approval Renovations to entry door and
Mountain Consulting Renovations creation of vestibule entry area with
storefront door/window system.
3/19/2024 23-1383 8 The Green Building Permit - Exterior Staff Approval Replacement of wooden egress stair
Renovations to side/rear of building.
3/25/2024 23-1868 146 S State Street, Offices Fence Permit HDC Consultation on ArchRevCert Fences built without a permit; Code
1/18/2024 and 2/15/2024; Staff Enforcement Case. Referral of Fence
approval per ARC Permit as HI-24-01. HDC approved
with conditions: Fence #1 to remain
a 6-foot vinyl as limited visibility;
Fence #2 to be replaced by 4-foot
wood fence.
3/25/2024 23-1874 1 Kings Hwy NE Roof Permit No Planning Staff Review. Replacement of roof on back of
house.
3/25/2024 24-147 108 W Loockerman St Roof Permit No Planning Staff Review. Roof replacement project.
4/23/2024 24-455 217 W Loockerman St Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovations for fire walls
Renovations required for interior work. and rear door to storage area.
4/29/2024 24-566 147 S Governors Avenue, Sign Permit Staff Approval Installation of hanging sign for
Pastries Deli & More business tenant.
16
Paj 17
2024 Permit Activity in the Historic District
Item 3.
Updated thru 8-31-2024
DATE PERMIT # LOCATION TYPE ACTION ON ARCHITECTURAL NOTES
REVIEW CERTIFICATE
5/8/2024 24-546 151-181 Kings Hwy SW, Administrative Permit Staff Approval. Brick repair and repointing of patio
Woodburn areas.
5/23/2024 24-697 501 S State Street, Christ Temporary Sign Permit Staff Approval. Temporary Banner installed June-
Church July.
6/26/2024 24-570 231 W Loockerman Street Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval. No ArchRevCert Interior renovations for two
Renovations required for interior work. apartment units.
6/25/2024 24-709 43 The Green, John Bell Fence Permit Staff Approval. Installation of wood picket fence to
House comply with maximum 4-foot
height. Original materials revised to
comply with DS&G.
6/27/2024 24-897 136 W Loockerman Street, Sign Permit Staff Approval Installation of window sign and
Key to Life Juice Bar hanging blade sign for new business
tenant
6/28/2024 24-921 29 S State Street, Ward & Sign Permit Staff Approval Installation of wall sign and post
Taylor Law Office sign for new office tenant
7/22/2024 24-123 26 S State Street, Building Permit - Renovations Staff Approval Replace rear egress stairs in area at
Apartment Building rear of building - not visible from
street right-of-way
8/13/2024 23-1492 32 W Loockerman St, Fears Sign Permit Staff Approval per previous Sign Installation of two window signs
Barber & Beauty Shop Permit Referral to HDC at HI-23-04 (vinyl applied to window) for Barber
and Beauty Shops; other Fears
Promotions Signage not included in
this permit.
8/1/2024 24-757 223 S State Street Roof Permit Staff Approval Existing flat roof on upper third
floor roof to be replaced with EPDM
roofing. Location is not visible.
8/6/2024 24-894 89 Kings Hwy SW, Fence Permit Staff Approval Replacement of existing 8 ft. Fence
Richardson & Robbins to include privacy slats in rear
Building (DNREC) location that is not visible from right-
of-way.
17
Paj 18
2024 Permit Activity in the Historic District
Item 3.
Updated thru 8-31-2024
DATE PERMIT # LOCATION TYPE ACTION ON ARCHITECTURAL NOTES
REVIEW CERTIFICATE
8/13/2024 24-1150 32 W Loockerman St, Fears Sign Permit Staff Approval. Signs related to installation of window and wall
Promotions previous Sign Permit Referral to HDC signs for Fears Promotions (Boxing).
in HI-23-04. Wall signs revised to vertical format
rather than horizontal.
18
Paj 19
Item 4.
Resolution
Whereas, Jonathan N.H. Street became a member of the City of Dover Historic
District Commission in February 2018 and has served with diligence and
distinction in this capacity as an advocate for implementation of the Historic
District Standards and Guidelines to maintain the historic character of the city’s
Historic District; and,
Whereas, Jonathan N. H. Street has played a key role in ensuring fundamental
fairness and careful forethought in the planning and development of the Capital
City through his service on the Historic District Commission; and,
Whereas, Jonathan N. H. Street has shared his professional expertise in the fields
of engineering and land development design in reviewing applications presented to
the Historic District Commission; and,
Whereas, Jonathan N. H. Street has influenced the pattern and appearance of
development in the Historic District in Dover through his contributions to the
development of the Historic Preservation chapter of the 2019 Comprehensive
Plans; and,
Whereas, Jonathan N. H. Street completed his service on the City of Dover
Historic District Commission on June 20, 2024.
Now Therefore Be It Resolved That, the City of Dover Historic District
Commission does hereby express its sincere appreciation to Jonathan N. H. Street
for his faithful and exemplary service to the Citizens of the City of Dover as a
member of the City of Dover Historic District Commission.
__________________________ _________________________
Eric Czerwinski Dawn E. Melson-Williams
Chair, Historic District Commission Principal Planner
September 19, 2024
19
Paj 20
Item 5.
STATE OF DELAWARE
OMB/DIVISION OF FACILITIES MANAGEMENT
OMB/DFM CONTRACT #MJ0201000002 ARCHITECTS
R G Architects, LLC
200 W. Main St., Middletown, DE 19709
www.rgarchitects.net
302.376.8100
DELAWARE SUPREME COURT BUILDING
ADDITION AND RENOVATION
55 THE GREEN DOVER , DE 19901
LOCATION MAP AREA MAP SITE MAP DRAWING LIST
GENERAL 15%-30% REVIEW 05/31/2024
HISTORIC REVIEW 08/06/2024
T10-01 TITLE SHEET . .
T10-02 LEGENDS & ABBREVIATIONS . .
T10-03 EXTERIOR RENDERINGS . .
. .
C1.01 SITE CONSTRUCTION PLAN COVER . .
. .
A1-2 FIRST FLOOR RENOVATION PLAN . .
A2-1 EXTERIOR ELEVATIONS . .
. .
PROJECT
DELAWARE
SITE SUPREME COURT
SUPREME COURT ADDITION &
PROJECT
RENOVATION
AREA
SUPREME COURT
55 THE GREEN
DOVER, DE 19901
55 THE GREEN
DOVER, DE 19901
PROJECT NO: 23043
DRAWN BY: LAK
CHECKED BY: RAG
TRUE NORTH
SCALE: AS NOTED
DATE: 02 AUGUST 2024
. .
. .
PLANTH
NOR
Copyright - R G Architects - 2024
TITLE SHEET
TRUE NORTH TRUE NORTH
T10-01
PLANTH PLANTH
NOR NOR
20
Paj 21
Item 5.
DEMOLITION LEGEND & NOTES RCP LEGEND AND NOTES RENOVATION LEGEND & NOTES RENOVATION ELEVATION KEYNOTES
ABBREVIATIONS GENERAL NOTES
LEGEND: LEGEND: LEGEND: NEW FLEMISH BOND BRICK TO MATCH
ACT ACOUSTICAL CEILING TILE LLH LONG LEG HORIZONTAL 1
EXISTING COLOR
1. ALL WORK SHALL CONFORM WITH THE EXISTING WALL TO REMAIN TYPE-1 CEILING TYPE EXISTING WALL TO REMAIN
AFF ABOVE FINISHED FLOOR LLV LONG LEG VERTICAL
APPLICABLE CODES AND ORDINANCES OF 10'-0" CEILING HEIGHT A.F.F.
EXISTING TO BE REMOVED 2 NEW MOLDED BRICK WATER TABLE
ALT ALTERNATE LPT LOW POINT EXISTING TO BE REMOVED
THE LOCAL JURISDICTION, THE COUNTY,
ALUM ALUMINUM LT LIGHT THE STATE, AND THE CURRENT ADOPTED
NEW WALL
LIGHTING: NEW WALL NEW WINDOW. COLOR AND MATERIALS TO
VERSION OF THE INTERNATIONAL BUILDING 3 MATCH EXISTING.
ANSI AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARDS INSTITUTE MAS MASONRY NOTE: LIGHTING FIXTURES ARE SHOWN ON
CODE FAMILY. THE CONTRACTOR SHALL NEW MASONRY WALL
D1 DEMOLITION KEYNOTE ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS FOR REFERENCE ONLY. REFER
ARCH ARCHITECTURAL, ARCHITECT MAX MAXIMUM POST NOTICES AND COMPLY WITH
TO ELECTRICAL DRAWINGS FOR ACTUAL FIXTURE TYPE 4 NEW FOUNDATION VENT. SEE 3/A4.1
GOVERNING LAWS OF THE JURISDICTION. X RENOVATION KEYNOTE
ASTM AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR TESTING AND MATERIALS MDF MEDIUM-DENSITY FIBREBOARD DESIGNATIONS AND STANDARD OF DESIGN CATALOG
MECH MECHANICAL 2. THE WORK SHALL BE PROPERLY GENERAL NOTES: NUMBERS.
X 5 REINSTALL FENCE AGAINST STRUCTURE
BD BOARD NEW DOOR
MFD MANUFACTURED SUPERVISED BY THE CONTRACTOR'S 1. CONTRACTOR SHALL VERIFY ALL DIMENSIONS WALL/ CEILING MOUNTED EXIT SIGN
BL BASE LINE SUPERINTENDENT. SUFFICIENT PERSONNEL PRIOR TO COMMENCING WITH CONSTRUCTION. 6 NEW SCUPPER BOX AND DOWNSPOUT
WITH EMERGENCY LIGHT HEADS. W/ SECTION TAG
MFR MANUFACTURER SHALL BE SKILLED IN THE TASK ASSIGNED. AXX.X
BLDG BUILDING ELEC. DWGS. FOR LOCATION
MIN MINIMUM 2. CONTRACTOR SHALL COORD. ALL DEMOLITION
BM BEAM
MJ
3. THE CONTRACTOR SHALL, AT ALL TIMES AND RENOVATION W/ MEP. DWGS. PRIOR TO TYPE-1 CEILING TYPE ARCHITECTS
MOVEMENT JOINT MAINTAIN ADEQUATE PROTECTION TO WALL MOUNTED EMERGENCY LIGHTS 10'-0" CEILING HEIGHT A.F.F.
BOT BOTTOM START OF CONSTRUCTION.
BRG BEARING
MO
MR
MASONRY OPENING
MOISTURE RESISTANT
SAFEGUARD ALL PERSONS ENGAGED IN
THE PERFORMANCE OF THE WORK. 3. CONTRACTOR SHALL CONTACT ARCHITECT
COORD. W/ ELEC. DWGS. FOR LOCATION
X
NEW WALL TAG
(SHEET AD1.1 FOR WALL TYPES)
R G Architects, LLC
BUR BUILT UP ROOF
4. ON-SITE VERIFICATION OF ALL DIMENSIONS
FOR ANY IN FIELD DISCREPANCIES THAT
CAUSE CONFLICT FOR THE WORK INTENT.
NEW 2'X2' LED TROFFER- 200 W. Main St., Middletown, DE 19709
MT METAL THRESHOLD (SEE ELEC. DWGS FOR DETAIL)
CJ CONTROL JOINT
MTD MOUNTED
AND CONDITIONS SHALL BE THE SD "SECURE DOOR" - CARD READER www.rgarchitects.net
RESPONSIBILITY OF THE CONTRACTORS. NEW 2'X4' LED TROFFER-
CL CENTER LINE
MTL METAL DEMOLITION KEYNOTES: (SEE ELEC. DWGS FOR DETAIL) 302.376.8100
CLG CEILING 5. NOTED DIMENSIONS TAKE PRECEDENT
NA NOT APPLICABLE NEW SURFACE MOUNTED LED FIXTURE - GENERAL NOTES:
OVER SCALE. DEMO EXIST. WINDOW , TRIM & ASSOC
CLG HT CEILING HEIGHT D1 (SEE ELEC. DWGS FOR DETAIL)
NCOMBL NON-COMBUSTIBLE FRAMING IN ITS ENTIRETY. REMOVE PORTION 1. CONTRACTOR SHALL VERIFY ALL DIMENSIONS
6. THE PROJECT ARCHITECT SHALL BE OF EXISTING WINDOW SILL DOWN TO THE TOP HVAC: PRIOR TO COMMENCING WITH CONSTRUCTION.
CLO CLOSET NOTIFIED SHOULD ANY DISCREPANCY OR
NIC NOT IN CONTRACT OF FINISH SUB FLOOR. PREP ENTIRE OPENING
CLR CLEAR QUESTIONS ARISE PERTAINING TO THESE TO RECEIVE A NEW DOOR & FRAME. PORTION 2. CONTRACTOR SHALL COORD. ALL DEMOLITION
NO NUMBER NEW SUPPLY DIFFUSER-
DRAWINGS. NO CHANGE SHALL BE MADE ABOVE DOOR TO BE WALL INFILLED AS REQ'D. AND RENOVATION W/ MEP. DWGS. PRIOR TO
CMU CONCRETE MASONRY UNIT (SEE MECH. DWGS FOR DETAILS)
NTS NOT TO SCALE WITHOUT REVIEW BY THE ARCHITECT. START OF CONSTRUCTION.
CO CLEANOUT DEMO EXIST. WINDOW , TRIM & ASSOC FRAMING
OC ON CENTER D2 NEW RETURN DIFFUSER-
7. NOTES ON DRAWINGS SHALL APPLY TO ALL IN ITS ENTIRETY. PREP EXIST. OPENING FOR 3. CONTRACTOR SHALL CONTACT ARCHITECT
CON CONNECT (SEE MECH. DWGS FOR DETAILS)
OD OUTSIDE DIAMETER, OUTSIDE DIMENSION SIMILAR CONDITIONS WHETHER THEY ARE NEW WALL INFILL. FOR ANY IN FIELD DISCREPANCIES THAT
CONC CONCRETE REPEATED OR NOT. CEILING TYPES: CAUSE CONFLICT FOR THE WORK INTENT.
OFD OVERFLOW DRAIN REMOVE EXIST. WALL IN ITS ENTIRETY. PATCH
D3
CONSTR CONSTRUCTION & REPAIR EXIST. WALLS AND FLOOR AS REQ'D.
OHDR OVERHEAD DOOR 8. THE CONTRACTOR SHALL VERIFY ALL NEW 2'X2' SUSPENDED ACOUSTIC
AND PREP AREA FOR NEW WORK. RENOVATION KEYNOTES:
GRADES, LINES, LEVELS AND DIMENSIONS CEILING SYSTEM
CONT CONTINUE OPH OPPOSITE HAND INDICATED ON THE DRAWINGS AND SHALL REMOVE EXIST. DOOR AND FRAME IN ITS ARMSTRONG: #1732
CONTRACT, CONTRACTOR OPNG OPENING REPORT ALL INCONSISTENCIES TO THE D4
CONTR ENTIRETY. RETURN TO OWNER FOR STORAGE TYPE-1 "FINE FISSURED" (WHITE) 1 INFILL EXISTING MASONRY OPENING
ARCHITECT PRIOR TO THE EXECUTION OF
OPP OPPOSITE
COORD COORDINATE THE WORK. RECHECK ALL DIMENSIONS DEMO EXIST. FIREPLACE AND ALL ASSOCIATED
PRIOR TO ORDERING MANUFACTURED D5 2 INFILL EXISTING FIREPLACE
PLAM PLASTIC LAMINATE MATERIALS. PREP AREA FOR NEW WALL INFILL. GYPSUM BOARD CEILING
CPT CARPET AND/OR FABRICATED ITEMS.
PLAS PLASTIC TYPE-3
CT CERAMIC TILE REMOVE EXIST. PLUMBING FIXTURE, CAP 3 NEW MOLDED BRICK WATER TABLE
PLYWD PLYWOOD 9. THE CONTRACTOR SHALL ASSUME FULL D6
EXIST. SERVICE PIPING BELOW GRADE AND/OR
CTR CENTER RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE PROTECTION
POL POLISHED BEHIND FINISH WALL SURFACE. 4 NEW JUDGE GOWN CLOSETS
D DEEP, DEPTH AND SAFEKEEPING OF PRODUCTS
PR PAIR PURCHASED FOR THIS PROJECT AND REMOVE EXIST. STAIRS AND PREP AREA FOR
DBL DOUBLE D7
STORED IN THE OWNER'S DESIGNATED NEW WORK. 5 NEW WALL AND FLOOR MOUNTED BOOKSHELF
PREFIN PREFINISHED
DEC DETENTION EQUIPMENT CONTRACTOR AREA. THE CONTRACTOR SHALL
PROJ PROJECT, PROJECTED COORDINATE WITH THE OWNER ON DEMO EXIST. FLOOR/ WALL MOUNTED
DEMO DEMOLITION, DEMOLISH D8
PSF POUNDS PER SQUARE FOOT PREFERRED LOCATIONS FOR STORED CASEWORK IN ENTIRETY AND PREP AREA FOR
DET DETAIL MATERIALS. NEW WORK. REMOVE ANY ASSOC. BLOCKING
PSI POUNDS PER SQUARE INCH & FRAMING. PATCH & REPAIR EXISTING WALL
DF DRINKING FOUNTAIN AS REQ'D.
PT PAINT, PAINTED, PRESSURE TREATED 10. THE CONTRACTOR SHALL MAINTAIN AREAS
DIA DIAMETER UNDER THE CONTRACTOR'S CONTROL TO DEMO EXIST. FOUNDATION VENT IN IT'S
PTN PARTITION BE FREE OF WASTE MATERIALS, DEBRIS D9
DIAG DIAGONAL ENTIRETY. PREP AREA FOR NEW WALL INFILL
PVC POLY-VINYL CHLORIDE THERMOPLASTIC AND RUBBISH. CONTAINERS FOR DEPOSIT
DIM DIMENSION OF DEBRIS AND RUBBISH SHALL BE REMOVE ALL EXIST. WALL MOUNTED
QT QUARRY TILE PROVIDED BY THE CONTRACTOR. D10
DR DOOR ACCESSORIES. CAMERAS, SIGNS, ETC.
R RADIUS COORDINATE LOCATION WITH THE OWNER
DWG DRAWING PRIOR TO PLACEMENT. EXTRANEOUS REMOVE PORTION OF FENCE AS REQ'D FOR
RCP REFLECTED CEILING PLAN D11
EA EACH MATERIALS SHALL BE PERIODICALLY CONSTRUCTION. RETURN TO OWNER FOR
RD ROOF DRAIN REMOVED, AND AT THE CONCLUSION OF REINSTALLATION
EIFS EXTERIOR INSULATION FINISH SYSTEM THE PROJECT.
REF REFERENCE, REFRIGERATOR
EJ EXPANSION JOINT D12 DEMO PORTION OF BRICK SIDEWALK
REINF REINFORCING 11. ALL AREAS DAMAGED DURING
EL ELEVATION CONSTRUCTION SHALL BE REPAIRED TO
RENOV RENOVATION
ELEC ELECTRIC, ELECTRICAL THEIR STATE PRIOR TO THE START OF 15%-30% REVIEW 05/31/2024
REQD REQUIRED CONSTRUCTION
ELEV ELEVATOR HISTORIC REVIEW 08/06/2024
REV REVERSE, REVISED, REVISION . .
EPDM ETHYLENE PROPYLENE DIENE MONOMER 12. INDIVIDUAL CONTRACTORS SHALL BE . .
RHR RIGHT HAND REVERSE RESPONSIBLE FOR PROVIDING AND . .
EQ EQUAL INSTALLING ALL FIRESAFING/FIRESTOPPING
RL ROOF LADDER . .
EQUIP EQUIPMENT MATERIALS AT ALL THROUGH-WALL AND . .
RM ROOM THROUGH-CEILING PENETRATIONS AS . .
EW EACH WAY REQUIRED FOR THE CONSTRUCTION WORK
RO ROUGH OPENING . .
EWC ELECTRIC WATER COOLER OF THEIR INDIVIDUAL CONTRACT. . .
RTU ROOF TOP UNIT . .
EXIST EXISTING
RWC RAIN WATER CONDUCTOR
EX EXISTING
RWL RAIN WATER LEADER
EXP EXPANSION, EXPOSED
SCHED SCHEDULE
EXT EXTERIOR
SECT SECTION ADDITION CONSTRUCTED IN 1968 PROPOSED ADDITION
FD FLOOR DRAIN
SF SQUARE FOOT / FEET DELAWARE
FDTN FOUNDATION
FE FIRE EXTINGUISHER
SGL SINGLE SUPREME COURT
SHT SHEET
FEC FIRE EXTINGUISHER CABINET
SIM SIMILAR
ADDITION &
FF EL FINISHED FLOOR ELEVATION
FHC FIRE HOSE CABINET
SPEC SPECIFICATION RENOVATION
SST STAINLESS STEEL
FIN FINISH
STD STANDARD
FIN FLR FINISH FLOOR STL STEEL
FLR FLOOR, FILLER STRUC STRUCTURAL
FR FIRE RATING, FIRE RESISTANT, FRAME SUSP SUSPENDED
55 THE GREEN
FRP FIBER REINFORCED PLASTIC / POLYESTER SYMM SYMMETRICAL DOVER, DE 19901
FT FOOT, FEET SYS SYSTEM
FTG FOOTER, FOOTING TEMP TEMPORARY
GA GAUGE TER TERRAZZO
GALV GALVANIZED THK THICK, THICKNESS PROJECT NO: 23043
GC GENERAL CONTRACTOR THRES THRESHOLD DRAWN BY: LAK
GYP BD GYPSUM BOARD
TOJ TOP OF JOIST CHECKED BY: RAG
TOM TOP OF MASONRY SCALE: AS NOTED
HC HANDICAP
TOS TOP OF STEEL DATE: 02 AUGUST 2024
HCP HANDICAPPED
TOW TOP OF WALL
HDPE HIGH DENSITY POLYETHYLENE . .
TPO THERMOPLASTIC POLYOLEFIN MAIN BUILDING AND
HDW HARDWARE SEMICIRCULAR PORTICO
. .
TYP TYPICAL
HM HOLLOW METAL BUILT 1909-1912
UL UNDERWRITERS LABORATORIES
HORIZ HORIZONTAL
UNO UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE EXTENT
HT HEIGHT
UTIL UTILITY OF WORK Copyright - R G Architects - 2024
HVAC HEATING VENTILATING, AND AIR CONDITIONING
IBC INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE
VCT
VERT
VINYL COMPOSITION TILE
VERTICAL
LEGENDS AND
ABBREVIATIONS
ID INSIDE DIAMETER
VEST VESTIBULE DN
INSUL INSULATION N.I.C. UP DN
VIF VERIFY IN FIELD
INT INTERIOR
VTR VENT THROUGH ROOF
JAN JANITOR
W WIDE, WIDTH
L ANGLE
W/ WITH
LAM LAMINATE DN
WD WOOD DN
LAV LAVATORY
WDW WINDOW
T10-02
LF LINEAR FOOT
WP WORKING POINT
LH LEFT HAND TIMELINE PLAN KEY PLAN
LHR LEFT HAND REVERSE
WSCT
WT
WAINSCOT
WEIGHT
1 SCALE : 1/8" = 1'-0" K NOT TO SCALE
0 2' 4' 8' 16' 21
Paj 22
Item 5.
ARCHITECTS
R G Architects, LLC
200 W. Main St., Middletown, DE 19709
www.rgarchitects.net
302.376.8100
FRONT VIEW FROM THE GREEN - CURRENT 3/4 VIEW FROM THE GREEN - CURRENT SIDE VIEW - CURRENT
15%-30% REVIEW 05/31/2024
HISTORIC REVIEW 08/06/2024
. .
. .
. .
. .
. .
. .
. .
. .
. .
DELAWARE
SUPREME COURT
ADDITION &
RENOVATION
55 THE GREEN
DOVER, DE 19901
PROJECT NO: 23043
DRAWN BY: LAK
CHECKED BY: RAG
SCALE: AS NOTED
DATE: 02 AUGUST 2024
. .
. .
Copyright - R G Architects - 2024
FRONT VIEW FROM THE GREEN - PROPOSED 3/4 VIEW FROM THE GREEN - PROPOSED SIDE VIEW - PROPOSED
EXTERIOR
RENDERINGS
T10-03 22
Paj 23
Item 5.
SITE CONSTRUCTION PLANS
SUPREME COURT OF DELAWARE
55 THE GREEN
DOVER DELAWARE
KENT COUNTY DELAWARE ARCHITECTS
R G Architects, LLC
200 W. Main St., Middletown, DE 19709
www.rgarchitects.net
302.376.8100
LOCATION PLAN ENGINEERS - SURVEYORS
4305 MILLER ROAD (302) 764-7635
WWW.VDLENG.COM
WILMINGTON, DE 19802
15%-30% REVIEW 05/31/2024
HISTORIC REVIEW 08/06/2024
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DELAWARE
SUPREME COURT
ADDITION &
RENOVATION
P:\Land Projects\26094 Supreme Court of DE Bldg - Dover\Plan Prod\Standard Plan\26094-COVER-01.dwg, 8/2/2024 11:15:29 AM, DWG To PDF.pc3
55 THE GREEN
DOVER, DE 19901
PROJECT NO: 26094.00
DRAWN BY: CH
CHECKED BY: ND
SCALE: 1" = 30'
DATE: 31 MAY 2024
FILE 26094.00-COVER-01
SHEET 1 OF 4
ELMARV A
Y OF D -D
Copyright - R G Architects - 2024
SITE PLAN T
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Item 5.
RENOVATION ELEVATION KEYNOTES
NEW FLEMISH BOND BRICK. BRICK COLOR TO
1 MATCH EXISTING.
2 NEW MOLDED BRICK WATER TABLE
NEW SINGLE HUNG SIMULATED DIVIDED
3 LIGHT WINDOWS. PAINT COLOR TO MATCH
EXISTING.
4 NEW FOUNDATION VENT. SEE 3/A4.1
5 REINSTALL FENCE AGAINST STRUCTURE
6 NEW SCUPPER BOX AND DOWNSPOUT
7 NEW BRICK CORNICE.
ARCHITECTS
R G Architects, LLC
200 W. Main St., Middletown, DE 19709
www.rgarchitects.net
302.376.8100
T.O. CORNICE
18'-1"
3
2
1 T.O. FIRST FLOOR
0'-0"
4
EXISTING NEW ADDITION
WEST ELEVATION
1 SCALE : 3/16" = 1'-0"
0 1' 2' 4' 8'
15%-30% REVIEW 05/31/2024
HISTORIC REVIEW 08/06/2024
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DELAWARE
SUPREME COURT
ADDITION &
RENOVATION
T.O. CORNICE
18'-1"
55 THE GREEN
DOVER, DE 19901
6
PROJECT NO: 23043
DRAWN BY: LAK
CHECKED BY: RAG
SCALE: AS NOTED
DATE: 02 AUGUST 2024
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5
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2 3 3 3
2
1
1 T.O. FIRST FLOOR
0'-0"
Copyright - R G Architects - 2024
EXTERIOR
4 4 4
NEW ADDITION EXISTING NEW ADDITION
5
ELEVATIONS
SOUTH ELEVATION SOUTH ELEVATION
3 SCALE : 3/16" = 1'-0" 2 SCALE : 3/16" = 1'-0"
0 1' 2' 4' 8' 0 1' 2' 4' 8'
A2-1 24
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Item 5.
City of Dover
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW STAFF REPORT
Before Dover Historic District Commission
September 19, 2024
Application: Delaware Supreme Court Building Addition-Renovation HI-24-06
Owner: State of Delaware
Location: Southeast corner of the Green, east of South State Street.
Addresses: 55 The Green
Size: 3.92 +/- acres
Present Uses: Delaware Supreme Court
Present Zoning: IO (Institutional and Office Zone)
SWPOZ (Source Water Protection Overlay Zone)
H (Historic District Zone)
I. PROPERTY INFORMATION
The Historic District Commission will act on an Architectural Review Certificate for an addition to
the Delaware Supreme Court Building. This application consists of a project for the construction of
a 700 square foot addition to the Delaware Supreme Court building. The parcel of 3.92+/- acres also
contains the Kent County Courthouse building addressed as 414 Federal Street, the Margaret M
O’Neill Building at 410 Federal Street, and the Old State House at 25 The Green. The proposed
addition will contain a new chambers room and 2 additional ADA compliant bathrooms. The
property is zoned IO (Institutional and Office Zone) and subject to the H (Historic District Zone)
and the SWPOZ (Source Water Protection Overlay Zone). The property is located on the east side
of the Green to the east side of South State Street. The owner of record is the State of Delaware.
Property Address: 55 The Green. Tax Parcel: ED-05-077.09-05-32.00-000.
Surrounding Land Uses
The subject area lies on the historic Green. The surrounding zoning is a mix of IO (Institutional and
Office Zone), RG-O (General Residence and Office Zone), and ROS (Recreational and Open Space
Zone). The area contains State offices and offices for organizations centered here in Dover. The
Sykes building immediately to the right on The Green is zoned RG-O and contains the Public
Defender’s office. Also, in the RG-O zone on The Green is the historic John Bell House. To the left
of the Delaware Supreme Court Building is the Old State House. Further to the left facing The
Green are the offices of the Biggs Museum. Across from the subject property is the open space used
for concerts and other public events.
Previous Applications
Staff searched for previous applications and did not find development applications. On file were a
series of Fire Protection Permits and Building Permits relating to internal renovations and
P. O. Box 475 Dover, DE 19903
Community Excellence Through Quality Service 25
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Item 5.
HI-24-06 Delaware Supreme Court Building Addition-Renovation
Architectural Review Staff Report for Historic District Commission
Meeting of September 19, 2024
Page 2 of 8
replacement of an access ramp. According to the description in the National Register of Historic
Places nomination there were renovations to the building over the years. The description is listed
below.
II. PROJECT PROPOSAL
Scope of Project
The Building Addition will add a chamber and 2 bathrooms to the south side of the building. The
area of the building that will be extended for the addition contains four windows that will be
replicated on the new exterior wall (south elevation). The roof of this one story addition will be flat,
like the addition from 1968. The exterior is shown as brick laid with the same Flemish bond as the
original building. The brick cornice is carried into the new addition, as well as the stone keystone
and lintels of the tall, rounded windows.
The interior renovation and layout of the space are not subject to this review process.
The brick sidewalk is noted to be removed where the Building Addition will be located. The
sidewalk intersections will be squared off and terminate at existing building access/egress points.
There are other segments of the sidewalk network to link from The Green to Federal Street along
the Kent County Courthouse. The fenced off area between the building at 55 The Green and 410
Federal Street will remain, and the fence replaced after the work is completed.
III. HISTORIC PROPERTY INFORMATION
National Register of Historic Places – Dover Green Historic District
The subject area is located within the boundaries of a National Register Historic District,
specifically the Dover Green Historic District. The National Register of Historic Places nomination
for the Dover Green Historic District (K-394) was completed 1973-76 and amended in 1979 and
1984. This federal designation focuses on the area immediately around The Green and extends for
several blocks to its south. The nomination recognizes “the significance of the evolution of Dover
during the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries.” In the subject area, a series of contributing
and non-contributing resources were listed in the inventory for the National Register nomination.
The resources were predominately dwellings of the 19 th century through mid-twentieth century. A
more detailed architectural description is given in the nomination. For the Supreme Court Building
at 55 The Green (K-394.70) see as follows.
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Item 5.
HI-24-06 Delaware Supreme Court Building Addition-Renovation
Architectural Review Staff Report for Historic District Commission
Meeting of September 19, 2024
Page 3 of 8
Review of Historic Maps
A series of historic maps were reviewed by Planning Staff for preliminary information on this east
side of South State Street between North Street and East Water Street. The 1859 A.D. Byles Map
of Kent County (Dover insert) shows The State House and different buildings around it, many still
exist today.
Philadelphia : Published by A.D. Byles, 1859.
The series of Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps would also be a reference source for information on the
buildings which occupied the subject area over time. For Dover, the Sanborn Maps date from 1897-
1944. The 1919 Sanborn Map shows the beginnings of what is there today, with a squared off front
on the left entrance porch. According to the description in the 1979 for the National Register of
Historic Places nomination for the Dover Green Historic District, the Building’s domed entrance
was added prior to the 1979 nomination application.
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Item 5.
HI-24-06 Delaware Supreme Court Building Addition-Renovation
Architectural Review Staff Report for Historic District Commission
Meeting of September 19, 2024
Page 4 of 8
Sanborn Map 1897 1
Sanborn Map 1904 1
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Item 5.
HI-24-06 Delaware Supreme Court Building Addition-Renovation
Architectural Review Staff Report for Historic District Commission
Meeting of September 19, 2024
Page 5 of 8
Sanborn Map 1910 1
Sanborn Map 1919 1
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Item 5.
HI-24-06 Delaware Supreme Court Building Addition-Renovation
Architectural Review Staff Report for Historic District Commission
Meeting of September 19, 2024
Page 6 of 8
IV. ZONING REVIEW
The entire project site is located in the H (Historic District Zone) and subject to the provisions of
the Zoning Ordinance, Article 3 § 21 and referenced sections. Zoning Ordinance, Article 10 § 3.2
outlines the review process for Architectural Review Certification and related building height, bulk,
and setback standards.
The subject project area is zoned IO (Institutional and Office Zone) and portions are located within
the SWPOZ (Source Water Protection Overlay Zone – Tier 3: Excellent Recharge Area). The IO zone
allows the use for a Supreme Court as a type of public and institutional building and makes the
development subject to provisions of regulations the IO zone.
Review of DESIGN STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES
The subject project site is located in the Dover Historic District Zone within The Green Historic
Context. The Green Historic Context is described on pages 2-3 through 2-5. Location within the
Dover Historic District Zone requires proposals for demolition, new construction, additions, and
certain renovation or rehabilitation activities to existing buildings to receive an Architectural
Review Certificate.
As stated in the Design Standards and Guidelines for the City of Dover Historic District Zone, an
Architectural Review Certificate will be granted “if it is found that the architectural style, general
design, height, bulk and setbacks, arrangement location and materials affecting the exterior
appearance are generally in harmony with neighboring structures and complementary to the
traditional architectural standards of the historic district.” In accordance with Article 10 § 3.2, the
Historic District Commission will take action regarding the project’s compliance with the
architectural review standards.
This proposal must be reviewed for conformity with the design criteria guidelines found in Chapter
4: New Construction, Additions, Demolition and Relocation. Information on the review
considerations is given below.
New Construction, Additions, Demolition and Relocation
The Design Standards and Guidelines for New Construction, Additions, Demolition and Relocation
(Chapter 4: pages 4-1 through 4-10) provide the design criteria and development guidelines. The
guidelines specify the following individual considerations additions to existing buildings to be
considered in the review by the Historic District Commission of the project for Architectural
Review Certification:
Siting (location of building on lot and in relation to street)
Scale
Elevation of the First Floor
Floor-to-Floor heights
Massing (relationship of solid-to-void)
Orientation (location of primary façade)
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Item 5.
HI-24-06 Delaware Supreme Court Building Addition-Renovation
Architectural Review Staff Report for Historic District Commission
Meeting of September 19, 2024
Page 7 of 8
Proportions (comparison of height to width of building and elements)
Materials
Forms (shape of building and roof to be complementary)
The proposed project must also be reviewed for compliance with the standards established by the
Zoning Ordinance. The standards include items such as setbacks from property lines, lot coverage,
height, etc. This Proposal for the Delaware Supreme Court Building Addition conforms to most of
the bulk requirements of the IO Zoning District, except for parking which is legal non-conforming.
Parking for offices and Capital Complex is addressed through a campus parking plan. The City of
Dover Zoning Ordinance authorizes the Historic District Commission to waive certain bulk
standards when taking action on for Architectural Review Certificate if necessary.
V. STAFF COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The following are Staff comments and recommendations for this application regarding
project activities and Architectural Review Certification.
1) Staff recommends conditional approval of the Architectural Review Certificate for the
Delaware Supreme Court Building Addition based on the criteria set forth in the Design
Guidelines and Standards, this project conforms to the regulations outlined. The overall
design is consistent with the building as it was originally designed in 1912 and how it has
evolved into what it looks like today including the massing, style, windows, heights,
proportions, and materials.
a. The Building Addition is setback from the main massing of the Building and placed
in a secondary position.
b. The exterior finishes of brick for walls and detailing and the window form and trim
work detailing are compatible with the existing building. The use of brick continues
the primary exterior material for buildings in this area of The Green and nearby
Capital Complex.
2) The following conditions/considerations are recommended by Staff to improve project’s
compliance with the recommended guidelines of the Design Standards and Guidelines:
a. Clarify material for keystone of arched window openings and the window sills in
new addition.
b. Clarify type of window and grid work (mullions and mutins) i.e. format of simulated
divided light windows.
3) The project will be subject to Administrative Site Plan application review process for a Site
Development Plan (Zoning Ordinance, Article 10 Section 2). This review is underway.
a. Additional technical items for compliance with the Zoning Ordinance and other
regulations may be identified during the Administrative Plan Review Process.
4) In the event of major changes and revisions are proposed to the Site Plan design, you are
required to contact the Planning Office to discuss prior to implementation. These changes
may require resubmittal of the plan/drawings for review by agencies making
recommendations or acting regarding the application.
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Item 5.
HI-24-06 Delaware Supreme Court Building Addition-Renovation
Architectural Review Staff Report for Historic District Commission
Meeting of September 19, 2024
Page 8 of 8
5) The applicant should be aware that Final Plan approval does not represent a Building Permit
and other associated construction activity permits.
Historic District Commission Action Required
The Historic District Commission shall consider the proposal and take action regarding the
Architectural Review Certification for the Delaware Supreme Court Building Addition with Site
Improvements. The recommendation should reflect consideration of the Design Standards and
Guidelines.
Attachments:
Application Submission Letter
Site Plan Set (6 pages: T-10-01, T10-02, T-10-03, C1-01, A1-2, A2-1)
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