Plans for Historic Baldwin-Buss Merino Property to be Decided at Upcoming Planning Commission Public Hearing

At our previous HHA General Meetings, we have kept you up to date on Planning Commission’s review of a proposed development plan for the Merino block of property bounded by Park Lane to the north, First Street to the west, West Streetsboro Street to the south, and the Village Green to the east. While part of the project includes plans to restore the historic 1825 house to its original beauty, the surrounding new 3-story construction within the block will create a lasting change to the streetscape of our downtown Village Green, in both scale and perspective.

Last Wednesday, March 9, the Architectural and Historic Board of Review (AHBR) discussed the massing and blocking of the revised plan, including moving the Baldwin-Buss Merino house approximately 50 feet to the south and surrounding it with new 3-story residential and commercial construction. The discussion points of note were to consider a platform at the vehicle courtyard, shifting the historic house east several feet, and to consider a step or notch in the end townhome unit adjacent to the green.

This Monday, March 14, 7:30, PM at Town Hall, Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing for final approval of the plan. Please refer to the meeting agenda through this link to see more details.  Once you scroll down to the Merino Block agenda item “B,” click on the attachments labeled “PC 2016-02 Staff Report” and “PC 2016-02 Plan Submittal” in order to see City Staff summary and the architectural drawings which outline the plan. You can also link directly to those documents through the PC Agenda.

Did you know why this structure and location is important?  Former HHA President, Pat Eldredge has written about the historic significance of the Baldwin-Buss Merino House and it’s place on our Village Green. Read her informative summary by clicking here.

More images and information can be found on our website’s Property Listing, here.

If you enjoy the views of green space and historic architecture as you walk, bike and drive through our downtown, or if you appreciate the sense of place created by Hudson’s earliest settlers on our Village Green, please attend this Monday’s Planning Commission Public Hearing. Share your comments, questions and concerns about how this landmark project will change the face of our community. Be a part of the discussion and decision. Once Planning Commission deliberates and reaches a final vote, architectural and design details will then be reviewed by the AHBR.

Questions or concerns about this project should be directed to the City of Hudson’s Community Development Office at (330)342-1790.