12-01-08 Special Called Meeting of the La Porte Development Corporation Board of Directors Minutes

Browse Search

DRAFT as approved by the MSAB on 11-13-08 Design Guidelines MAIN STREET DESIGN GUIDELINES PURPOSE The purpose of the guidelines and resource material is to help property owners and the Main Street Design Assistance Review Team determine the types of alterations, renovations, and changes within the Main Street District that will maintain the special qualities of historic downtown La Porte. This applies to renovations or new construction, but not to general maintenance that does not alter exterior appearance of the building. The guidelines apply only to the exterior of property in the Main Street District and will guide the Main Street Design Assistance Review Team in issuing a Main Street Design Certificate or approving a Main Street Enhancement Grant. There are several points to remember when using the guidelines and resource material: . Every building is unique. Even buildings that look identical have a few details or a setting that distinguishes them from any other buildings. This means that what is appropriate for one building may not be appropriate for another. Each building must be reviewed on an individual basis both by the property owner and by the Main Street Design Assistance Review Team. . Over the years, some buildings have been altered or details have been removed. Although it may be preferred to restore these buildings to their original appearance, the guidelines and the Main Street Design Assistance Review Team acknowledge that an exact restoration is not always economically practical. The Downtown Design Guidelines & Resources will: . Protect, enhance and perpetuate landmarks and districts of historical, cultural, architectural or archeological importance that reflect distinctive and important elements of the unique heritage of La Porte . Foster civic pride by recognizing accomplishments of the past . Protect and enhance the attractiveness of Downtown to tourists and visitors and support and stimulate the economy . Ensure the harmonious, orderly and efficient growth and development ofthe Main Street District . Promote the economic prosperity and welfare of the community . Encourage the stabilization, restoration and improvement of property and property values. Maintain a generally harmonious outward appearance of both historic and modern structures, which are compatible and complimentary in scale, form, color, proportion, texture and material. These guidelines are presented to aid downtown property owners in La Porte to protect and enhance the historic resources of the community. City of La Porte - Main Street Program Ion