Title
Approval of Historic Preservation Demonstration Project Grant - Hotel San Carlos - 202 N. Central Ave.
Description
This report requests Transportation, Infrastructure and Planning Subcommittee approval of a Historic Preservation Demonstration Project Grant of up to $500,000 for rehabilitation of the historic Hotel San Carlos at 202 N. Central Ave.
THIS ITEM IS FOR CONSENT ACTION.
Report
Summary
The building at 202 N. Central Ave. was constructed in 1928 as the Hotel San Carlos. The seven-story building is constructed of reinforced concrete with a stucco surface made to resemble stone. The hotel was one of the first in Phoenix to include steam heat, elevators, and air cooling, making it significant in its support of tourism in the 1920s. Alterations to the main building since initial construction include the construction of a rear concrete block addition, replacement of the original storefronts and upper windows, and the addition of a rooftop pool and penthouse mechanical and storage rooms.
The property was listed in the Phoenix Historic Property Register in 1987. In 1993, the city provided $25,000 in Demonstration Project funds for the exterior rehabilitation of the building, which included new roofing; rehabilitation of the penthouse walls, windows and doors; restoration of missing canopies, exterior lighting and signage; and cleaning of exterior walls.
The building is currently owned by Rockbridge (RB Phoenix LLC), who is undertaking a complete rehabilitation of the historic hotel. Rockbridge is seeking City assistance for exterior work, including the selective demolition of alterations and enlargements constructed outside of the building’s period of significance; structural repairs; façade restoration and repair; reinstatement and unification of historically accurate window and storefront systems; roof restoration and repair; and the replacement in-kind of exterior lighting fixtures.
Financial Impact
The requested amount is $500,000. In exchange for the grant funds, the project will create net new jobs and tax revenues and support the further revitalization of downtown Phoenix through the increased utilization of a historic property that has been a landmark in Phoenix’s history for 95 years. The property owner has also agreed to record a new 40-year conservation easement on the entire property that will replace the previous easement. Funding for the grant will be provided from the Community and Economic Development Department.
Concurrence/Previous Council Action
- The Historic Preservation Hearing Officer approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project on July 12, 2023.
- The Historic Preservation Commission recommended approval of the grant funding on Aug. 21, 2023, by a vote of 8-0.
Location
202 N. Central Ave.
Council District: 7
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Alan Stephenson and the Planning and Development Department.