Three museum and historic projects seek CPA support; stucco asbestos, limestone cleaning and plaza accessibility among concerns

Representatives of local museums and historic properties presented three linked preservation proposals to the CPC on April 27.

Kilroy House: Presenters said laboratory analysis found asbestos in layers of exterior stucco; they recommended targeted repairs using helical anchors rather than wholesale removal to retain historic fabric. Museum representatives said asbestos‑compliant protocols and final contractor quotes are still being developed and that the Phase‑1 grant work (roof repairs and analysis) left about $5,000 that might be repurposed via contract amendment. They emphasized they will supply bid numbers prior to any CPC vote.

Fine Arts Museum: Presenters asked for limestone facade cleaning, repairs to stepped Art Deco door frames and restoration of steel‑sash windows. Staff noted lead in caulk/paint on some windows (not asbestos) and described “Dutchman” repairs — targeted in‑kind replacements — to preserve historic material.

Science Museum: The proposal calls for removing deteriorated slate on an exterior plaza and installing durable brick pavers with a gentle ramp to improve accessibility; presenters said the Building Commissioner agreed the renovated plaza should include accessible elements even if the original main entrance remains stepped. Committee members asked the museums to document the original nineteenth/early twentieth‑century plaza material so the work can be reviewed under the Secretary of the Interior’s standards before CPC recommendation.

Committee discussion focused on the need for precise bids, asbestos‑compliance protocols, eligibility under preservation standards, and the CPC policy that generally limits a single award to $250,000 per project per cycle. Presenters said they expect to submit more detailed cost estimates by the committee’s requested May 21 deadline so the projects can be considered in June and July.