Historic 1917 fire station approved for restaurant reuse with federal tax-review condition

The Augusta Historic Preservation Commission on [date not specified] approved a certificate of appropriateness for adaptive reuse of the 1917 fire station at 2163 Central Avenue into a restaurant, with a condition that the project comply with any changes required by state or federal historic-review agencies. The commission voted unanimously to approve the application and included language that the applicant must accept any changes the Georgia Historic Preservation Division or the National Park Service requires.

The applicant, Jim James of 2556 Walton Way, said the plan seeks to retain and celebrate features of the former firehouse, including tin ceilings and fire poles, while returning the front garage openings to arched forms. Eric Montgomery of Historic Augusta told the commission the project had been submitted for certified rehabilitation tax incentives through the Georgia Historic Preservation Division and National Park Service and that agency review could require modifications.

Staff described project elements including replacement of non-original windows and doors with wood or metal-clad units, a slightly elevated landscaped patio on the east side, an ADA ramp at the front, an exterior fire escape at the rear, restored truck-bay arches on the front and west sides, landscaping and lighting for a valet/drop-off area, and restoration of a small rear cinder-block building. Staff recommended approval, while suggesting the ramp be designed to be less prominent on the main front facade and noting parking may need adjustment.

The commission’s motion approved the COA and added a condition that the owner accept any required modifications resulting from the state or National Park Service historic rehabilitation review. The motion passed with all seven commissioners voting in favor.

The applicant said the team is working with architects and an international restaurateur; he also told the commission he expects to employ people with special needs as part of the staffing plan. The application is pursuing certified rehabilitation tax incentives; that review was in process and not yet final.