Austin Planning Commission Votes to Preserve Historic Building on East 12th Street

Austin Moves to Preserve Historic Building on East 12th Street

The City of Austin has taken a significant step toward preserving a piece of local history. On Tuesday, the Planning Commission voted unanimously to advance historic zoning for the building located at 1500 East 12th Street. This building has an estimated age of over a century and is seen as an important part of the neighborhood’s history.

A Rich History

Built near the turn of the 20th century, the site has served various purposes throughout its long existence. It was once a neighborhood grocery store and even a gathering spot for the Black fraternity Alpha Phi Alpha. Additionally, it operated as a German beer hall that managed to survive through the tough times of Prohibition. The building has also hosted music events, making it a hub of community activity.

Recently, the property owner, Eureka Holdings, submitted a permit application to demolish the now-vacant building, which is located at the corner of East 12th and Comal Streets. However, the Historic Landmark Commission stepped in last September to prevent its demolition, leading to this week’s decision by the Planning Commission to push for historic zoning.

A Need for Preservation

During the Planning Commission meeting, Vice Chair Awais Azhar expressed the importance of maintaining the building’s historical integrity. “It is critical for us to preserve this structure,” he said, emphasizing the desire to find a balance between the building’s restoration and potential development that could benefit the community.

The building has been identified as eligible for local landmark designation according to the 2016 East Austin Historic Resource Survey. Members of the Preservation Austin board, including Travis Holler, underscored the site’s significance, connecting it directly to the African American community in East Austin. “This building does represent a significant intersection that would be the cornerstone of being able to revitalize the East 12th Street corridor,” Holler noted.

Community Voices Heard

Community residents voiced their concerns too. Nailah Akinyémi-Sankofa, a local resident, urged city officials to consider the cultural and historical ramifications of demolishing the property. She passionately implored the Planning Commission to protect this historical landmark, emphasizing the importance of preserving community heritage.

The Property Owner’s Perspective

Eureka Holdings has cited concerns about health and safety regarding the building, claiming it does not comply with the National Electric Code and that developing safe sidewalks is unfeasible without demolition. The property has faced numerous code violations since the owner acquired it in 2016, mainly due to a lack of required maintenance.

Nick Sandlin, the owner’s authorized agent and engineer, argued that the building’s demolition would be necessary to ensure a safe and compliant structure could be built in its place. He suggested that keeping the original zoning might create opportunities for a more community-oriented development in the future, even though no concrete plans have yet been established.

A Compromise on Zoning

While the Landmark Commission pushed for historic zoning that would cover the entire property, the Planning Commission ultimately decided to limit the zoning to just the original structure’s footprint. This move aims to preserve the building while potentially allowing for future developments that serve the community.

What’s Next?

As the debate continues over the future of the building at East 12th Street, it remains a focal point for the community. The idea of preserving history while balancing new development needs presents ongoing challenges for Austin’s historic neighborhoods.

The Planning Commission’s decision signifies a desire to protect the cultural legacy of Austin, ensuring that the history embedded in structures like the one at 1500 East 12th Street is not lost to time.