Commission approves diamond-plate bulkhead at 39 Elm with planner to refine finish

The Historic District Commission voted to approve the concept for a new diamond-plate steel bulkhead door at 39 Elm Street, subject to a condition that the applicant work with the preservation planner on the final finish and material treatments. Applicant Jeffrey Nadeau (speaker 10) described the existing bulkhead as a makeshift plywood structure and said the proposed steel door will improve security and driveway clearance: "we're looking to replace it with, a diamond, steel door... just giving us a little bit more space in our driveway."

Commissioners acknowledged the practical benefits but expressed concern about the industrial aesthetic of diamond plate on a historic property. Suggestions included skinning the steel with a wood veneer, painting or powder-coating the metal, or using a different metal finish. The commission approved the application with a motion to require the applicant to work with the preservation planner on color and final materials before permit issuance. The application will receive a certificate of appropriateness valid for one year after final staff review.