Published: January 30, 2008
Consultant to Evaluate Folsom Historic Resources
Part of Historic Sutter Street, Folsom
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Preserving the historic resources of Sutter Street is a high priority as the City of Folsom moves forward on the Historic District Streetscape Project. The City has hired Page & Turnbull Architects to evaluate historic resources and provide input on the final detailed design of the project.
Working in cooperation with the Folsom Cultural Resources Conservancy and the Heritage Preservation League, the City signed a contract with Page & Turnbull to identify specific historic buildings and features that are worthy of preservation or restoration. The consultant will also participate in the design process to ensure historical integrity of the final streetscape plan.
"The Historic District is the city's crown jewel and preserving, or even enhancing, the unique character and historical nature of the area is a high priority for the City," said Amy Feagans, Redevelopment and Housing Director. "We value the involvement of the Cultural Resources Conservancy and the Heritage Preservation League in this important project."
Loretta Hettinger, a member of the Cultural Resources Conservancy and the Heritage Preservation League, said, "It is very important to inject historic expertise into the process so we don't inadvertently destroy something of value. One of our goals is to protect and enhance the historic district's potential for historical registration."
Courtney Puffer, another member of both groups, added, "The perceived historic integrity of the District draws people to Sutter Street as a refuge from the ordinary. The historic legitimacy it retains needs to be preserved and protected by proper maintenance and well advised care to ensure that any new construction is compatible with the District's historic past."
The Streetscape Project is one component of a community driven revitalization effort launched by Historic District merchants. Community members and merchants have been actively engaged in the process over the past two years, reviewing the design alternatives and providing many suggestions that are evident in the preliminary designs.
The Heritage Preservation League, an organization formed to raise awareness and voice concerns about the importance of local historic preservation, strongly supports efforts to preserve the historic authenticity of Sutter Street. League members endorse the City's decision to hire a consultant with expertise in historic preservation to help achieve that objective.
Revitalization goals include creating improved access for people with disabilities, improving fire protection, repairing the aging water and sewer infrastructure and attracting new business through beautification while preserving the unique historical character of the area.
"We believe residents and visitors will be pleased when they see the end result of the Streetscape Project," said Feagans. "Our intent is to honor the historic assets of Sutter Street while improving the aging infrastructure and creating a more effective center for commerce."
The Historic District Commission and the City Council, sitting as the Redevelopment Agency, approved the Sutter Street Streetscape concept plan in October 2007. Initial plans include removing the center median and shed roofs, and widening sidewalks. Currently, the Historic District Commission members, Sutter Street merchants and City staff are working to refine the designs as the project moves forward.
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