The long-range hope for downtown Pine Bluff is that it might eventually be revitalized and become as energetic as it was from the 1920s through the ’60s. If and when that revival occurs, the old business district’s appearance will likely be much the same as it was in the area’s heyday.
Pine Bluff Inspection and Zoning Department Director Robert Tucker told the historic district commission during a Friday meeting that he’s nearing completion on a design book that will offer guidelines for new buildings and restrictions on additions to and rehabilitation of existing structures. The design book — currently in draft form — may be finished as soon as next month, said Tucker, and currently consists of about 80 pages.
The guidance will be protective of the district’s historical integrity, Tucker said, and will incorporate architectural and anatomical features of existing properties, such as The Hotel Pines. Construction on the landmark hotel commenced a century ago, and it opened Nov. 6, 1913. That early November date closely coincides with the suggested day of a proposed event in which the historic commission’s first Bob Abbott Historic Preservation Awards will be presented.
Commissioner Dee Herring suggested an awards presentation could be held either Friday, Nov. 2, or Saturday, Nov. 3. Meanwhile, commissioners will be considering possible nominees for both the local and upcoming statewide Historic Preservation of Arkansas recognitions.
The commission received an update from Tucker on progress in the Boone-Murphy House restoration project. Tucker said a handicapped entrance is being added to the historic Civil War site, with Commissioner Dave Sadler providing architectural assistance. The historic house’s renovation is expected to be complete by October, in time for a planned Civil War Sesquicentennial re-enactment event.
Tucker said permanent roof repairs at The Saenger Theatre will be delayed in favor of a “temporary fix” so a requested engineering assessment can be completed. The assessment will be included in a state grant application.