Burtis House Lifted in Preparation for Preservation

On December 2, a few days before the Planning Commission meeting, contractors hired by Preservation Maryland lifted historic Burtis House approximately six feet. This is the first step in the restoration and preservation of the one-time home of William Burtis.

Elevation of the Burtis House allows builders to replace joists and flooring – extensively damaged by repeated flooding – and prepare for rehabilitation of the last remaining waterman’s home in an area known as Hell’s Point on City Dock.

In addition to providing ADA accessibility, a new basement will be built beneath the restored Burtis House so that it remains above the flood plain. The time-lapse video (below) shows how workers lifted the structure in increments, shoring up between each lift to maintain the integrity of the building.

Maryland Historic Trust Approves Welcome Center Conceptual Design

Earlier this fall, Maryland Historic Trust (MHT), a division of the Maryland Department of Planning, provided conceptual approval for the Harbormaster Headquarters and Maritime Welcome Center.

In its approval letter, MHT lauded designers and architects for following MHT guidance for the “placement of the connection to the Burtis House…allowing the front and side elevations to remain more historically accurate.”

This connection will provide ADA accessibility to the Burtis House for the first time. MHT conceptual approval clears the way for construction drawings (which MHT will review for approval) along with archeological investigations.

Critical Area Commission Approves Placement of Welcome Center

On Thursday, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Critical Area Commission approved the new Harbormaster Headquarters and Maritime Welcome Center as “consistent” with the City’s Critical Area Program.

In his submission to the Commission, Annapolis Director of Planning and Zoning, Chris Jakubiak noted that, due to the intrinsic nature of operations, the Harbormaster Headquarters and Welcome Center is a water-dependent use, adding “the site and resiliency improvements… are wholly consistent with the Critical Area program.”

He also noted the building has gone through an extensive public review and redesign process over several years, including numerous public meetings and Charrettes, as well as peer review by a consortium of professional architects experienced in local historic and culturally sensitive design.

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