By Cheryl Splain, KnoxPages.com Reporter
MOUNT VERNON — Curb appeal, height and front doors are the things that need addressed before the Historical Review Commission approves a new housing facility for Catholic priests on the corner of East High and McArthur streets.
Mark Stewart, facilities manager for St. Vincent de Paul Parish, presented blueprints for a new rectory to be built at 301 E. High St. The current 1900s home, located in the East High Street Historic District, will be demolished or removed.
Stewart said the new rectory is needed due to the consolidation of the Catholic churches in Mount Vernon, Danville and Utica. The parish has outgrown the current space; in addition to the priests, the new rectory at times will house deacons and seminarians.
The existing building at 301 E. High Street seen here will be demolished with plans to build a new St. Vincent rectory on this site – KP Photo
He said plans call for a one-level structure with a two-story appearance to accommodate aging priests who have difficulty with stairs. The facility will consist of four units, each containing a bedroom, bath and sitting room. The units will share a kitchen and living room.
The 3,080-square-foot structure will front on McArthur Street.
Commission member Wendi Fowler asked how the new rectory will fit into the historic district and the face of Mount Vernon. “It really doesn’t reflect the architecture,” she said. “The curb appeal from High Street is of real concern.”
Commission member Gail LaBenne cited the height of the structure and the lack of a front door facing High Street as issues. “So what you would see from High Street is a wall,” she said. “The surrounding houses are two or 2 ½ stories. This one is one story.”
“Is there a height requirement?” asked Stewart. “I haven’t found a height requirement.”
“It needs to be consistent with surrounding properties,” responded LaBenne. “The proportion has to be consistent.”
Regarding adding on to the current house, Stewart said “there is not enough room to put in what we feel we need. We’re looking at a 50-year plan.”
“Part of our endeavor is to marry current requirements with existing needs,” said Jeff Salva of Green Valley Design. “The balance is getting four units accessible on grade level. Your comments are well taken. It could become a two-story. Mark and St. Vincent would have to address space on the second floor that may not be useful.”
Commission member Corby Wise suggested that Stewart look at a one-story home on North Main Street that he said was a good example of how a one-story home integrates into a historic district.
