We, the undersigned, feel that traditional/classic architecture is appropriate for our Old and Historic districts, and believe that the current Old & Historic Districts of Richmond, Virginia Handbook and Design Review Guidelines and the interpretation of those Guidelines undermine the original intent of the Old & Historic Districts (which is to preserve and protect the Districts' architectural character) and the wishes and desires of the citizenry who asked for these districts to be established, by mandating the construction of contemporary infill and additions.

We request that the Commission of Architectural Review Task Force amend the Old & Historic Districts of Richmond, Virginia Handbook and Design Review Guidelines by eliminating Article 2 under Form in the New Construction section, page 42, which states:

New construction should be contemporary in style, yet compatible with surrounding historic structures. New construction should not mimic previous architectural styles in such a way that creates a false historic appearance.

We also request the removal of any other language that includes the words or phrases:

mimic
contemporary
false historicism
false historic appearance

that are used as a mandate to construct non-traditional architecture in the Old and Historic Districts. Article 2 and the aforementioned words and phrases shall be replaced with language that requires all new construction, including infill and additions, to be built in a traditional/classic architectural style compatible with the era of significance reflected in the Old and Historic District in which the construction will take place.