7.3. HRSR 01-27-2003 - Laserfiche WebLink

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• Block south of Main St.between Sunshine Depot and First National Bank i. The development of this block is indicative of the overall economic health of Elk River at the time and the expansion of its commercial district. v. The small single story buildings contained within this block are indicative of the commercial expansion that took place in Elk River during the early part of the 20th century. viii. As a grouping of buildings,this block creates a familiar visual feature of the community. The fact that these buildings are old helps to create an establish feel that,not only instills a sense of what has come before,but creates a small town atmosphere that is hard to duplicate. Recommendation—As a grouping of buildings,the HPC feels that this block has local historic significance. By nature of potentially being the oldest commercial structure in Elk River,the HPC feels the Sunshine Depot individually has local historic significance. There is a strong possibility that the architectural integrity of these buildings can be restored. It is strongly recommended that willing property owners in this block be encouraged and aided in efforts to restore their buildings, including such measures as designation to HPS.It is further recommended that the established look and small town atmosphere created by small single story shops be preserved. Block from the Nextel Building to Old Theater- i. Many of the buildings in this block have great interest and/or value in regards to the cultural heritage of Elk River: (i.e. Dicks Main Tap - first"all talking pictures"/opera house, 649 Main St being the former site of the Elk River Star • News and owned by Charles Babcock, 641 Main St. formerly being the municipal building and a Farm Bureau. v. The one or two story buildings in this block are characteristic of small town commercial building for the period during which they were constructed. It is recommended that that what is behind the added facades is reviewed for a potential restoration. viii. In addition to being a site that played significant rolls in the development of Elk River's heritage and culture,the buildings in this block do represent an established and visual feature of Elk River. Recommendation-The HPC is recommending that the buildings on this block be retained, especially those mentioned above,and that restoration back to their original form is explored. Jackson Avenue Parking Lot i. This area has character, interest and value as part of the development,heritage and cultural characteristics of the City of Elk River. Elk River was created with a New England theme, around a central square. Jackson Avenue, although it is now a parking lot, is still open space that gives the visual feel of the central square it once was. This open space also ties to Elk River's past as a railroad community with the commercial area containing a main street parallel to the tracks with a road running perpendicular between the two(Jackson Avenue). v. Jackson Square is a distinctive embodiment of both the New England style layout for a community and a railroad community that was common of the period. • viii. Established when Elk River was first laid out and developed,the open space that is now the Jackson Avenue parking is a very strong established and familiar visual feature of the community.