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Project: Hancock - Clarke House Restoration CPA Category: Historic Preservation Amount Requested: $600,000 Amount Recommended: $600,000 CPC Vote: Approval (9 -0) Project Description: The Lexington Historical Society is undertaking a complete restoration of the 1737 Hancock - Clarke House, based on the findings of the 2007 CPA - funded historic structures report, existing conditions assessment, and building usage study. This project requests funding for the actual restoration of the building. Project Goals and Objectives: The restoration will have the following components: • Structural — To address weaknesses in the structural supports for the house and repair and stabilize deteriorated framing; • Building Envelope —To replace inappropriate roofing on the gable section of the house, restore nineteenth century gutters and downspouts, upgrade flashing and waterproofing and refurbish the basement area where documents and artifacts are stored; • Accessibility — To provide full wheelchair accessibility that is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act; • Historic Fabric — To repair or replace deteriorated exterior sheathing, clapboards and trim and paint the exterior to match the oldest known color, restore interior shutters, and install reproduction wallpaper in the Hancock/Adams guest chamber; • Systems — To install integrated climate control and up to date, more effective and less visible fire detection and suppression systems. Unsafe electrical circuits will be replaced with code - compliant circuits, wiring and fixtures. Total project costs are not expected to exceed $1.1 million. Project Benefit: The Hancock - Clarke House is a National Historic Landmark and the cornerstone of Lexington's Hancock - Clarke Historic District. It is nationally recognized for its significance in American history and its architectural importance, and is open to visitors seven months a year. Restoration of the building will ensure its continued structural integrity and provide access to all for study and appreciation. Funding Request: The Society has applied for $600,000 from Community Preservation Act funds and is applying for other grants to finance the balance of the project. The Society has set aside $200,000 for the project from its endowment, has received a $50,000 grant from the state, and is launching a capital campaign to raise the remaining funds needed. The Society will sign a deed restriction to guarantee that the Hancock - Clarke House will be preserved in perpetuity.