Historic commission approves replacement brick steps at 0.3 Spruceland Avenue

The Springfield Historic Commission voted to approve a certificate of appropriateness allowing the owner of 0.3 Spruceland Avenue to replace deteriorated brick steps with historic-style brick and non-slip treads, with the condition that the applicant return to the commission if specified materials cannot be sourced. The four commissioners present voted yes on the motion to accept the application.

Commission staff and the applicant described the project as a continuation of an earlier hearing and presented samples of historic-style bricks intended to match existing work on Magnolia Avenue. The applicant said they will “keep what we can” of the existing material and replace what cannot be salvaged, using a two-inch treated tread intended to reduce slipping.

The commission’s approval followed a public comment in favor from a nearby resident, Harry Seymour, who said he drove by the property and supported the owner’s stated goal of preserving the home’s historic value. The commission chair noted that if the applicant cannot find the black metal bracket or required brick type, they should return to the commission for an amendment.

The formal motion directed staff to issue the certificate as presented; commissioners recorded affirmative votes and the certificate was finalized during the meeting.

The commission emphasized that any changes to the approved materials or design would require return to the commission for further review.