Design Review Board Meeting May 5, 2026

The City of Aiken Design Review Board met on May 5, 2026, to review several applications for certificates of appropriateness related to construction, alteration, and demolition within the city's historic districts. Key procurement-related discussions included approval of a new stone wall and iron gate at 616 Park Avenue Southeast, replacement of a mural to support the downtown cultural district, and enclosure of a school porch to enhance security. The board also reviewed a significant renovation project at 726 Grace Avenue Southeast involving demolition of non-contributing structures and new construction of guest houses and amenities, with coordination from the National Park Service and state historic preservation office. The board debated the requirement for a landscaping plan for the pool house addition, ultimately favoring approval with administrative follow-up on landscaping. Additionally, retroactive approval was sought for a 5-foot wire fence with barbed wire at 618 Magnolia Street, with discussions focusing on safety and property line concerns. Motions to approve these projects were passed unanimously or without opposition, reflecting the board's support for maintaining historic character while accommodating new development and security needs.