INC NEWS - Email of Support -On Site Preservation of the Historic Garrett Farmstead-

[Ronnie Griffin]

Dear Fellow INC Members,

I am requesting a few moments of your valued time as well as assistance in either attending the Monday City Council meeting or contacting the City Council members in an effort for the on site preservation of the historic Clifton and Leah Garrett Farmstead.  This site is being proposed for development of 302 apartments under rezoning case Z06-64.  

"This farm is recognized in the Planning Department's Durham County Historic Inventory[1] as being one of the most important of the 420 identified historically significant properties and is currently in danger of being lost.  The house can easily be preserved in place, preserving a major segment of the community history of southwest Durham.



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[1] This property was included in the County Inventory since the area was in the County when the inventory was completed in 1987."



"Given the current development plan, the existing layout would not be adversely affected by the preservation of the historic landmark[1].  In fact, empirical data from similar projects show the preservation of the house and some of the outbuildings would be an enhancement.  Planning has also confirmed that this is a viable alternative by parceling out the site as a single family lot.



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[1] Some buildings currently envisioned to face Garrett would need to be reoriented to face the internal street of the development."



"In summary:

  a.. Preservation Durham finds that moving this house is a poor alternative,
    a.. Given the intact nature of the site, 
    b.. The good condition of the house, and 
    c.. The attractiveness of the area in which this property is currently located.
  b.. Moving historic properties is a choice of last resort."  
 


I am seeking your support with the recommendations by Preservation Durham, Durham Open Space Trails Commission and the Durham community for the "on site" preservation of these historic buildings.  The developer, Trammell Crow Residential, has not been cooperative with these preservation efforts.  The developer has agreed for some entity to move the buildings to another site but this is very complex and not a viable option. 

This property is located on Garrett Road adjacent to the Oak Creek Village Shopping Center, another apartment complex and across the road from the Toyota dealership.  This is the same location that Centex attempted to rezone and develop.

As a community volunteer and member of the North Garrett Road Committee, I have worked on this proposed rezoning and development for over twenty months.  Many improvements and commitments have been obtained on behalf of the Durham community.  I know that you are busy but again would appreciate an email to the City Council members expressing your support to preserve the Garrett Farmstead on the current site.

Respectfully,

Ronnie Griffin (489-1663)

INC
North Garrett Road Committee                    
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