5.1 HPSR 02-20-2014 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Jackson Street Water Tower The Jackson Street Water Tower (circa 1920) was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2012. Since that time, the HPC has worked to increase public awareness of this historical structure with a 3D model and printed materials of the tower's history at schools, environmental workshops, messaging on the city website and at city open house events. The HPC is actively seeking funds to restore the tower. The surface assessment indicated the presence of lead paint which would have to be removed prior to repainting. The Minnesota Historical and Cultural Grants office indicated that a structural assessment would also be required to determine its structural stability. Repainting and correcting any structural and /or safety code issues is estimated to be in excess of $400,000. The HPC needs to determine if this is a feasible project and if so, what each phase of the restoration process will include. Mississippi Connections Redevelopment Framework As reported last year, Elk River began planning for future development of its downtown area in 2006. The City Council created a Task Force to create a plan for the "greater downtown area." The mission statement of the Task Force is: To develop a comprehensive plan that )grill redefine the `greater don)nton)n area" to preserve its historical character P)hile promoting the future viability of the community. The 1Vlississippi Connections Study Area'summari�Zes the objectives, purpose and intent of the Plan. It is the cornerstone of the community. The Redevelopment Framework provides the blueprint for creating an environment and culture that encourages private reinvestment. This will be characterized by a robust business climate, strong affordable residential neighborhoods, diverse recreational opportunities, an agreed upon transportation framework, recognition of its historical place, and enhancing opportunities for community connection. The plan includes a historic section which includes preserving the history of Elk River and its building to further communicate our link to the past. Other sections in the plan discuss preservation of the "Brick Block ", the Jackson Street Water Tower, establishment of historic residential neighborhood districts, and the development of interpretive signage highlighting historic occurrences along the Mississippi and Elk River trail system. The plan was approved by the City Council in November 2012 and is currently being incorporated into the 2014 Comprehensive Plan update. History Day The HPC held a History Day Celebration on June 15, 2013, in conjunction with ArtSoup, a local art appreciation event hosted by the Elk River Area Arts Alliance, and the archaeological dig at Bailey Point Nature Reserve. The event was coordinated to provide a fun and interactive educational opportunity for all ages to learn about history of Elk River. Held at the historic Handke Pit, the day included a Civil War reenactment, a fashion show, a parade and the sale of memorial bricks to help fund the Elk River Water Tower Restoration Project. 3