Press Release
City Recognizes Local Leaders/Projects in Historic Preservation
Awards to be Presented at City Council Monday
Contact: Amy Guthrie, City Historic Preservation Director, 970-429-2758
ASPEN, COLO. (May 20, 2010) –The City of Aspen will be presenting its annual historic preservation awards during City Council on Monday at 5 p.m. The awards will go to projects and individuals who have made a commitment to historic preservation in Aspen.
The Outstanding Historic Preservation Project will be awarded to 707 North Third Street, owned by Carol Craig.
“The project reversed many non-historic alterations by reconstructing the front porch and other historic openings,” said Amy Guthrie, director of historic preservation for the City of Aspen. “It took preservation to a higher level by reusing existing material in the new construction as well.”
The Extra Effort Award will be awarded to Greg and Jane Hills for their dedication to finding creative solutions to meet historic preservation goals.
The Connor Cabins, adjacent to City Hall, and the preservation of Tom Benton’s Patio Building on Hyman St. are the two most recent creative preservation projects the Hills have undertaken.
“A remarkable aspect of the Patio Building is the proposal to sell the commercial spaces to existing local tenants, which greatly contributes to the local community and surrounding neighborhood,” Guthrie said. “The Hills combine historic preservation with other community goals in successful projects that contribute to and enhance Aspen’s story.”
The Elizabeth Paepcke Award, the award for an individual or group that has been a long-time preservation leader demonstrating commitment to historic preservation, will be awarded to Bill Stirling. Stirling has most recently chaired the Historic Preservation Task Force. Along with his preservation accomplishments while mayor of Aspen, within his 32 year old real estate firm, Stirling has created a niche representing historic properties, making sure buyers are well aware of the responsibility and honor of owning an Aspen landmark.
“Bill’s work in Aspen on the task force and historic preservation in general has been invaluable,” said Sara Adams, historic preservation planner. “Stirling tirelessly led an 18 month discussion of city policies on the preservation of modern and recent past properties, even quickly returning to his role after a traumatic car accident. His years of experience and passion about historic preservation, his knowledge of the real estate market and energy issues, and the fact that he has ‘walked the talk’ by owning several historic properties in Aspen, all contributed greatly to the work of this volunteer group.”
###