Wednesday, August 29, 2007

City Council clears way for parking lot near historic landmark

By Ben Bauman, Liz Zamora

VIDEO

City Council clears way for parking lot near historic landmark

Crews started early this morning removing trees from an area near the historic Bethany Place, a property that was the focus of a contentious and lengthy debate at the Topeka City Council Tuesday night.

The City Council unanimously voted in favor of construction of a parking lot at Grace Cathedral Church, 701 SW 8th Ave., which would include 40 spaces.

Friends of Bethany Place are currently attempting to get an injunction to stop the tree-cutting.

Church supporters and those opposed to the project showed up in force at Tuesday night's City Council meeting and spoke out.

"Our city has suffered enough destruction of historic sites. And it is not a matter of convenience. Once those properties are destroyed, we can't get them back," said Pedro Irigonegaray, an opponent of the parking lot.

"About the trees, they are mostly cedar, pines and hackberries. The city arborist and a local tree service tells us they approximately 50 to 60 years old, certainly not historic," said Episcopal Diocese of Kansas Bishop Dean Wolfe.

The State Historic Preservation office voted against the construction. But, the City Council's vote overturns that decision.

Tune in to 49 News at 6 for more on the fight over Bethany Place.

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Comments

jrherrick (anonymous) says...

Well done city council! Over the years Ive learned that anyting Pedro Irigonegaray is involved with must be carefuly looked at. He has a history of being involved with projects that will keep our city moving backwards not forwards.

August 29, 2007 at 4:45 p.m. ( | suggest removal )