01-20-09 Regular Meeting,Public Hearings,and Workshop Meeting of the La Porte Planning and Zoning Commission

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P & Z, 2-19-09 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 detaili or � setting that distinguislbes ther# from any Q er, buildings. This mearys wfat is appr " riute for one building may not be appropriate for another. `F,ath building must hewed on andividui basis both by the popetty owner and by the Maw lintfeet Design assistance>evieam • Over the yeW, gpnr b, iiav Been altered or s eve , h remu�rd ugh it maybe prefetreelto,rst$re these boil ` to their or: ' " hne§ and t%e Street ?nal &Pt giti:de. lain Design Assistance Review'F4 lcknowle* that an exaact, aration is not always economically practical _ The Downtown Design Guidelines & Rt sources will • Protect, enhance and perpetuate landn*ks a 'cts of h storlcal, tuol, architectural or archeological importance that re lectx lst c eletients ofthe unique heritage of La Porte • Foster civic pride by recognizing accomplishments of ttie past • Protect and enhance the attractiveness of Downtown to gists and visitors and support and stimulate the economy • Ensure the harmonious„, orderty and efficient growth and development"of the 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 1 of 3