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Williamsport - Historical Architectural Review Board
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The Millionaires Row (Dr. Randall Hipple) HistoricDistrict
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The Millionaires Row Historic District is a Nationally Registered Historic District with distinctive buildings significant to our history. The Williamsport Historical Architectural Review Board (HARB) reviews all exterior renovations, changes and new construction planned in the district.
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The HARB Review Process
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If your property is in the Historic District, you must obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) before performing exterior alterations, including but not limited to, repairs, improvements, demolitions, construction or signs. The Historical Architectural Review Board (HARB) reviews all COA applications. There is no fee for a HARB review.
Applications are obtained at City Hall, Community Development, 245 West Fourth Street, Williamsport, PA, Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. An application requires a full work description, photographs of the building, photographs of the work area, and samples, brochures or other information about the materials you plan to use. You or your representative should attend the meeting to clarify any questions about the work.
If you want to replace a historic feature, such as windows, porch railings or wood siding, or to demolish a structure, you must document the condition of the feature or structure and support your request for replacement or removal. New construction, including additions or garages, requires detailed drawings and plans. You must also consult with the Codes/Zoning Office and verify if a Building Permit or Zoning change is required.
After its review, HARB sends a recommendation regarding your proposal to City Council. City Council is the official body issuing Certificates of Appropriateness. You have the right to discuss your application with them. To arrange this, contact the City Clerk before the Council meeting.
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Due Date for COA Applications
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Applications, with supporting documentation, are due by 3:30 PM the Wednesday before the meeting. Incomplete or late applications will not be accepted.
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Meeting Time and Location
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HARB reviews applications in City Hall Council Chambers at 7:00 PM, usually on the third Tuesday of each month. Call Community Development to verify meeting dates.
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Basis for the HARB Review
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HARB bases its review on the Secretary of the Interior Standards for Rehabilitation. A description of the Standards can be found at: National Parks Service-Standards
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The Certificate of Appropriateness (COA)
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Only items listed on a COA are approved. COA’s have an expiration date. Approved work must begin within six months of the COA date and completed within two years. The COA is not a Building Permit. A Building Permit is a separate application that you obtain from the Bureau of Codes.
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West 4th Street Walking Tour
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Work Guides for Old & Historic Homes
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Welcome to Williamsport-
A Short History
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Once the Lumber Capital of the World, Williamsport had more millionaires per person than any other city and hosted such notables as Diamond Jim Brady, Mark Twain and Lillian Russell. Founded by Michael Ross in the late 18th century the majority of Williamsport’s growth occurred after it became a city in 1866. Between 1860 and 1870, the population tripled, partly through the annexation of neighboring Newberry, with out its resident’s knowledge.
~The burgeoning lumber industry spurred the growth of other industries and by 1890 there were over 27,000 residents. One of the most remarkable was Peter Herdic. He owned large tracts of land and many businesses including the finest hotel in town, the Herdic House, (800 W 4th). The major (architectural) survivals from this period are the rich and varied architectural gems along West Fourth Street. Here great lumber barons erected mansions designed to flaunt their wealth and impress their neighbors. They spent as freely on the interiors as they did on the exteriors, filling their homes with grand staircases, polished wood, intricate mantelpieces and works of art. A walk westward will…take you by architectural styles called Italian Villa, Queen Anne, Victorian Romanesque, Second Empire, Gothic Revival, and others.- Dr. John F. Piper Jr.
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Historic Marker List
Lycoming County
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