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July
10,
2003
As a local Architect and professional planner I have followed this project by the F.D.O.T. with particular interest over the last 20 years. I have attended numerous public meetings and helped draft a resolution to restore/rehabilitate that was adopted by the local, state, and national organizations of the American Institute of Architects. Having been an ardent supporter of the present plan to restore/rehabilitate this landmark structure, I am very interested in having a final design which embodies the most honest and historic aspects of the original structure. I attended the most recent public hearing at the County Auditorium and was impressed by the D.O.T. presentation effort. However, like some of my colleagues, I am concerned with some of the details of the proposed final design plans. I agree strongly with comments made during this meeting by Theresa Segal, Charles Tingley and Les Thomas regarding the following design issues: 1) The lion sculptures should retain their existing location and not be relocated farther away from the bridge approach as presented in the current design. 2) The proposed trellis on the east side of the bridge destroys the historic goose foot design and processional vista to historic Davis shores. This arbor/trellis should be eliminated and the original visual axis maintain even if the aspects are terminated at this intersection. 3) The original colors for the bridge should be documented and restored. 4) Any modern additions which detract the historic design of the bridge should be minimized. For example the poles and crossbars for the Nights of Lights display should become removable installations or reduced to a light cable structure to minimize their visual impact. As an interested Architect and planner I am hopeful that your current construction plans (90% completion) can be reviewed to allow a more thorough analysis of the present design. I do not believe that the colored presentation boards and relatively short public hearing were adequate to fully understand the details of this significant project. Please contact myself or Les Thomas if a more extensive review of these rehabilitation/ restoration plans would be feasible. Sincerely, Craig Thomson, AICP cc:
Ken
Smith,
Architect |