Suwanee Historic District Still Evolving, State Officials Say

The application process for a national historic district in Suwanee is still moving forward. But the boundaries for such a district in Old Town are far from certain.

The current map for the proposed district is a "work in progress," Denise Messick, an official with the state Department of Natural Resources, told a public information session Thursday at Suwanee City Hall.

Though not required, Georgia officials held the meeting because they feel it's "important to be transparent," said Dave Crass, another state official. They are with the DNR's Historic Preservation Division.

It was the first time state officials, who handle the screening for the National Parks Service, have met directly with Suwanee residents. About 30-40 people, including several Old Town property owners, attended the meeting. Suwanee officials began the application process last fall, but now it's in the state's hands.

-- Would you like to see a historic district in Old Town Suwanee? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

The district currently would include about 67 acres in Old Town, as well as most of Main Street. But the focal point is the vacant Pierce's Corner building, which dates to 1910.

A group led by Norcross attorney Michael Deming Sr. has a lease-purchase deal to buy and renovate Pierce's Corner. Deming has said that tax credits from a historic district are essential to completing the deal.

Messick noted that a "tentative" meeting date of August 23 has been set for the next step -- a review session with the state board. If that board OKs the proposed district, the next stop would be the federal parks service. "We have a good batting average," Crass said of his department's approval track record.

Messick assured the residents that a historic district carries no mandates and does not affect property rights.

Until the August meeting, Old Town property owners who are included in the proposed district have the right to object to state officials. If a majority does so, the district would not be approved.

Opposition was voiced at Thursday's meeting, just as it has been before in the process.

Old Town property owner Linda Fleming had delivered a petition of opposition to state officials that carried the signatures of several Main Street property owners. Asked by Fleming why those properties were still included in the proposed district, Messick responded that the "whole historic area" needed to be included.

Deming Sr., who attended the meeting with his son, Michael Deming Jr., said, "We're encouraged." Deming Sr. noted that his group already has an architect working on plans for Pierce's Corner.

See also:

• Historic District Info Session in Suwanee on Thursday

• What Historic Districts Are in Gwinnett?

Don’t miss any Suwanee news. Subscribe to Suwanee Patch’s free newsletter, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.