Historic Preservation Commission approves rear additions, ADU and removal of deteriorated shed in Prospect Hill

The Bloomington Historic Preservation Commission on April 23 approved a proposal to add a rear addition and build a two-car garage over a second-floor accessory dwelling unit at 601 West 4th Street, and authorized removal of a deteriorated rear shed that staff said could not be salvaged.

Program manager Noah Sandweiss presented the application and staff recommendation for conditional approval of the rear addition and new garage/ADU while noting the shed was a contributing accessory structure that required demolition criteria to be considered. Architect Doug Bruce said the owners plan to reuse existing sliding doors and to match exterior finishes to the house; he added the ADU would be a small studio with bathroom and kitchenette and could later be used for home‑health attendants or leased occasionally.

Commissioners debated whether an engineer’s report was necessary and whether the shed met the local criteria for demolition. One commissioner said, “I have been in that barn two or three times, and it’s not safe. Period,” and others referenced prior approvals and photos showing severe rot. Multiple commissioners cited the house’s age and neighborhood context while weighing the owner’s plan to make the main house livable and accessible for aging in place.

After discussion, a commissioner moved to approve the COA as presented; the motion passed by roll call. The commission’s action covered approval of the rear addition and garage/ADU construction and authorization to remove the noncontributing shed; staff will file the final conditions noted in the approval.

The commission’s decision distinguishes between the expansion of habitable space and the removal of the accessory structure: the addition and ADU were approved as compatible with the house and neighborhood, while the shed’s poor structural condition and prior partial approvals factored into the demolition decision. The commission noted the petitioners had met with the Prospect Hill Neighborhood Association and that the neighborhood had supported the plan during past review meetings.

Next procedural steps: staff will document the approved conditions for building permits and monitor any required follow-ups; the commission may later consider designation or other action for adjacent properties if additional context emerges.