Historic Linden Hotel Windows Face Controversial Replacement Decision

During a recent government meeting, the commission reviewed a significant request for the replacement of upper story windows at the historic Linden Hotel, located at 201 Linden Street in Fort Collins. Senior Historic Preservation Planner Jim Bertolini presented the staff report, outlining the request's implications for the building, which is a key feature of the Old Town landmark district.

The Linden Hotel, constructed in 1882, has undergone various rehabilitations since its designation as a historic resource in the mid-1990s. The current proposal seeks to replace all remaining historic windows on the upper floors due to concerns over their deteriorating condition, highlighted by a recent incident where a window pane fell into the street. As a result, the fire authority mandated that the windows be secured with plexiglass.

Bertolini emphasized that the commission's primary task is to determine whether the proposed window replacement meets the Secretary of the Interior's standards for rehabilitation and the Old Town Design Standards. The commission has the authority to issue a certificate of appropriateness, conditionally approve it, deny it, or request further information before making a decision.

The meeting also referenced a previous window study conducted in 2018, which suggested that repair options were viable. However, the current state of the windows has prompted staff to commission an updated study to assess whether replacement is indeed necessary. This study is being conducted by Deep Roots Craftsman, a firm experienced in historic carpentry.

The Linden Hotel's historical significance is underscored by its inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places and its status as one of the earliest landmarked buildings in Fort Collins. The commission's decision on the window replacement will not only impact the building's preservation but also reflect broader community values regarding the maintenance of historic structures in the area.