New Infill Construction--in Opposition

worked in national historic preservation for NPS, DOI (Washington, D.C.) for 30 years and feel that this proposal is totally inappropriate in scale, massing—and overall concept—for the miniature, fragile historic district and especially the view from Circuit Court of the domes, and steeples, and natural environment.  The courthouse building and setting, as evolved, should be preserved.    If this expansion were to go forward as proposed, those character-defining features of the courthouse complex and view toward town and beyond would be obscured.    In my view, the expansion needs to be radically modified so that any new infill construction is small in scale, and does not obscure existing historic buildings. An addition in front of the entrance would be disrespectful, as well as a walkway to protect judges.  Everyone should walk, regardless of their position.  Even in a huge city, this proposal would be denied for its inappropriateness and poor design. I agree with those citizens who feel the entire new building-addition concept could be moved off-site to another location.    

Kay D. Weeks