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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1/4/2017 - STAFF REPORTS - 2.A. A. F A L M SA4 .y c V N f09i0f Qe f0 + Cq!lppVt CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT DATE: January 4, 2017 PUBLIC HEARING SUBJECT: RECOMMENDATION BY THE HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD (HSPB) FOR CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE DESIGNATION OF THE AUTOMOBILE SERVICE STATION LOCATED AT 2796 NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE 'THE TRAM WAY SHELL GAS STATION' (CASE HSPB #99, ZONE C-1 / RGA-6 / RESORT COMBINING ZONE, APN: 504-091-001) (KL) FROM: David H. Ready, City Manager BY: Department of Planning Services On January 12, 2016, the HSPB initiated study of the subject site pursuant to Municipal Code Section 8.05.135 to inform the board of its possible historic significance. A historic resource analysis and report was prepared by the firm Architectural Resources Group, (ARG) dated October 6, 2016. The report finds that the automobile service station at this site meets the definition of a historic site as outlined in Municipal Code 8.05.020 because: (1) It exemplifies the post-World War II period of commercial development in Palm Springs, (2) It embodies the design characteristics of Mid-Century Modern architecture and is a notable example of thin-shell reinforced concrete construction, and (3) It represents the work of a master architect, William F. Cody, who designed a diverse and influential collection of Mid-Century Modern buildings throughout the Coachella Valley. The building was also listed in the City's 2004 Citywide Historic Resources Survey, which identified it as potentially eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places or the California Register of Historical Resources. RECOMMENDATION: 1. Open the public hearing and receive public testimony. 2. Close the public hearing and adopt Resolution # "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, DESIGNATING THE PARCEL LOCATED AT 2796 NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE (APN #504-091-001), ITEM NO. 2•A• City Council Staff Report January 4, 2017 Case HSPB-99 "The Tram Way Shell Gas Station" Page 2 of 11 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive "THE TRAM WAY SHELL GAS STATION", A CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE (#HSPB 99) ZONE C-1 / RGA-6 / RESORT COMBINING ZONE)." BACKGROUND INFORMATION: Related City Actions June, 1963 City Council approved a CUP for an automobile service station. August, 1963 A building permit (#B5917) was issued by the City of Palm Springs for the construction of an automobile service station. Concrete cylinder compression test report for the concrete February, 1964 canopy for the service station (copied to William F. Cody, The Shell Oil Company, Myers Brothers, Massey Rock and the Palm Springs Building Department). June 13, 1984 Planning Commission approved Case 3.676 for an addition and renovation of the service station. A building permit (#B4405) for "remodel and addition to existing August 28, 1984 service station for self service attendant booth and enlarged sales area..." was issued. Planning Commission approval of a Conditional Use Permit June 12, 1996 (Case 5.0712 CUP) for a 467 square foot mini-mart / convenience store use at the subject site. August 7, 2000 Architectural approval of a new fascia on the building. October 9, 2000 A building permit B41629 for interior remodeling. December 5, 2003 Architectural approval for installation of a 500-gallon propane tank. 2004 One of 100 buildings identified in the city-wide historic resource survey. Planning Commission reviewed proposed addition and May 13, 2015 renovation project and referred the item to the HSPB for comment. June 9, 2015 HSPB reviewed the project and made recommendations to the Planning Commission. June 10, 2015 Planning Commission approved proposed addition and renovation. June 19, 2015 Appeal of the Planning Commission's approval of June 10, 2015 was filed by the Palm Springs Modern Committee. City Council upheld Appeal of the Planning Commission September 2, 2015 decision of June 10, 2015 and referred the item back to the Planning Commission for further consideration. January 12, 2016 HSPB initiated study pursuant to PSMC 8.05.135 to consider possible designation of Class 1 historic designation of the site. 02 City Council Staff Report January 4, 2017 Case HSPB-99 "The Tram Way Shell Gas Station" Page 3 of 11 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive Related City Actions Planning Commission considered a revised proposal from the building owner for interior renovation of the building to eliminate May 25, 2016 the service garage and expand the convenience store use. The Commission tabled the matter until further study was conducted, allowing the HSPB and City Council to consider Class 1 historic status for the site. The building owner submitted a revised application seeking no June 15, 2016 physical change to the structure and to amend the CUP for the convenience store and auto service station use for accessory sale of alcohol. Planning Commission approved an amendment to the CUP for July 13, 2016 the convenience store and auto service station use for accessory sale of alcohol. The HSPB voted 5-0-2 (Dixon / Marsh absent) to recommend December 13, 2016 Class 1 historic site designation of 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive. Neighborhood Meetin /Nei hborhood Notice November 29, 2016 Notices of the public hearing were sent to all property owners within 500 feet of the subject site. Site Visit October, 2016 Site inspections by members of the HSPB and City staff. ANALYSIS: As noted above, a historic resources report ("Report" or "ARG report") was prepared by the firm ARG dated December 5, 2016. The analysis contained in this staff report is based on the information provided in the ARG report, as well as staffs analysis of the site. The Report states that the building's design is credited to architect William F. Cody, FAIA, and was constructed in 1963 according to building permit records. The site is dominated by a large rectangular thin-shell reinforced concrete canopy structure measuring roughly 36 feet x 90 feet. The 3,240 square foot roof plane is supported on just ten (10), slender steel columns, roughly 14 feet in height. Each column supports a roof area (or structural bay) which measures 18 feet by 18 feet. The columns are located in the center of each of the ten (10) structural bays — somewhat like the stem of a mushroom — creating roof sections that cantilever well over nine (9) feet off the columns. The weight of the roof plane is transferred to the columns by four (4) concrete "fingers", cast into the underside of the roof plane that radiate outward from each column, almost akin to a waiter supporting a large plate on his fingers. The most recognized example of this type of centered-column structural system is found in the 1937 Johnson Wax Companys' headquarters building in Racine, Wisconsin by architect Frank Lloyd Wright. 03 City Council Staff Report January 4, 2017 Case HSPB-99 "The Tram Way Shell Gas Station" Page 4 of 11 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive A LEFT ABOVE SHOWING CONCRETE"FINGERS"IN THE UNDERSIDE OF THE CONCRETE ROOF CANOPY. RIGHT ABOVE IS AN IMAGE OF THE JOHNSON WAX HEADQUARTERS BUILDING WITH CENTER-SUPPORTED ROOF"PODS" Beneath the easterly portion of the canopy is a masonry building that was originally 1,044 square feet in size according to building permit records. It contains an automobile service garage, cashier's station, and convenience store ("mini-mart"). As seen on page 19 of the Report, this building originally had a floor-to-ceiling glass curtain wall and a very thin roof fascia at the west facade. It appears this curtainwall was removed in 1984 to construct an addition that expanded the floor area of the convenience store. Beneath the westerly part of the canopy are two gasoline fueling pump islands. { 4 t AERIAL VIEW LOOKING TO THE NORTHEAST V,I r a AERIAL VIEW LOOKING TO THE NORTHWEST 04 City Council Staff Report January 4, 2017 Case HSPB-99 "The Tram Way Shell Gas Station" Page 4 of 11 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive I NEW . a I LEFT ABOVE SHOWING CONCRETE"FINGERS"IN THE UNDERSIDE OF THE CONCRETE ROOF CANOPY. RIGHT ABOVE IS AN IMAGE OF THE JOHNSON WAX HEADQUARTERS BUILDING WITH CENTER-SUPPORTED ROOF"PODS" Beneath the easterly portion of the canopy is a masonry building that was originally 1,044 square feet in size according to building permit records. It contains an automobile service garage, cashier's station, and convenience store ("mini-mart"). As seen on page 19 of the Report, this building originally had a floor-to-ceiling glass curtain wall and a very thin roof fascia at the west facade. It appears this curtainwall was removed in 1984 to construct an addition that expanded the floor area of the convenience store. Beneath the westerly part of the canopy are two gasoline fueling pump islands. AERIAL VIEW LOOKING TO THE NORTHEAST Y AERIAL VIEW LOOKING TO THE NORTHWEST 04 City Council Staff Report January 4, 2017 Case HSPB-99"The Tram Way Shell Gas Station" Page 5 of 11 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive The remainder of the site is mostly paved for vehicular circulation around the fueling islands on the west (front) part of the site and parking behind the building on the east. Storage rooms, a gasoline vapor recovery apparatus, and other mechanical equipment associated with the fuel pumps are also located on the east side of the building. On the south side of the building is a covered "porte cochere" (perhaps originally a car wash bay) comprised of a very thin, flat-roofed structure supported on one end by a slump stone masonry wall located on the southerly property line and on the other end by the south wall of the building. The underside of this canopy is finished in perforated metal "plank" ceiling panels. These perforated ceiling panels can also be seen in the storage room adjacent to the service bays to the south of the service bays and above the suspended acoustical tile ceiling in the mini-mart / cashier's station. The large concrete "X's" that are cast into the underside of the concrete canopy not only provide structural support to the roof plane, they also create an interesting pattern on that surface. F icy _`y}Y i3ix. v� p1r RIM v =a ,V 5 PHOTO SHOWING THE CAST-IN-PLACE STRUCTURAL"FINGERS" THAT TRANSFER THE WEIGHT OF THE ROOF TO THE COLUMNS At the north-south-oriented joints between each structural bay of the concrete canopy are recessed fluorescent light troffers that were cast into the underside of the canopy (seen in the photo above). The fluorescent lights were removed some time in the past and replaced with surface-mounted, box-type metal halide light fixtures. The recessed troffers still exist. 05 City Council Staff Report January 4, 2017 Case HSPB-99"The Tram Way Shell Gas Station" Page 5 of 11 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive The remainder of the site is mostly paved for vehicular circulation around the fueling islands on the west (front) part of the site and parking behind the building on the east. Storage rooms, a gasoline vapor recovery apparatus, and other mechanical equipment associated with the fuel pumps are also located on the east side of the building. On the south side of the building is a covered "porte cochere" (perhaps originally a car wash bay) comprised of a very thin, flat-roofed structure supported on one end by a slump stone masonry wall located on the southerly property line and on the other end by the south wall of the building. The underside of this canopy is finished in perforated metal "plank" ceiling panels. These perforated ceiling panels can also be seen in the storage room adjacent to the service bays to the south of the service bays and above the suspended acoustical tile ceiling in the mini-mart / cashier's station. The large concrete "X's" that are cast into the underside of the concrete canopy not only provide structural support to the roof plane, they also create an interesting pattern on that surface. I d g K �V Courtesy 3 Y - 1 k t Y j . 4)v' M+9 D: PHOTO SHOWING THE CAST-IN-PLACE STRUCTURAL"FINGERS" THAT TRANSFER THE WEIGHT OF THE ROOF TO THE COLUMNS At the north-south-oriented joints between each structural bay of the concrete canopy are recessed fluorescent light troffers that were cast into the underside of the canopy (seen in the photo above). The fluorescent lights were removed some time in the past and replaced with surface-mounted, box-type metal halide light fixtures. The recessed troffers still exist. 05 City Council Staff Report January 4, 2017 Case HSPB-99 "The Tram Way Shell Gas Station' Page 6 of 11 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive The masonry and glass building below the canopy that contains the service garage, mini-mart, cashier's station, storage and toilets, is visually distinct and separate from the taller concrete canopy. Most of the building beneath the canopy has its own separate roof. The only connection between the two occurs in the service bay, where clerestory windows in the service bay enclose the interior volume of that space up to the underside of the concrete canopy' — giving it the necessary height for cars to be lifted on hydraulic hoists for service and providing a great amount of natural daylight. The clerestory windows and separate low roof structure of the masonry building give the illusion that the canopy and building are two separate parts and that the masonry and glass building is "slid" partially under the concrete canopy. From early photos in newspaper advertisements announcing the opening of the station, it can be seen that the original front fagade of the service garage / attendant's office was comprised of floor to ceiling glass that wrapped the north side and the west side of the attendant's office with a very thin roof edge fascia. This type of detail can be found on other significant commissions designed by William Cody including the Thunderbird Country Club and a residence on Camino Norte in Palm Springs, r i is ------------ Nit ENLARGED DETAIL FROM NEWSPAPER ARTICLE SHOWING FLOOR TO CEILING GLASS FRONT AT ATTENDANT'S OFFICE(CENTER OF PHOTO),CLERESTORY WINDOWS OVER SERVICE GARAGE(LEFT) FINDINGS — DEFINITION OF AN HISTORIC SITE Palm Springs Municipal Code (PSMC) Section 8.05.020 provides the definition and criteria against which the Historic Site Preservation Board (HSPB) must evaluate a site for consideration of possible historic designation. The site is evaluated against these criteria below. (a) Historic Site. An historic site is any real property such as: a building; a structure, including but not limited to archways, tiled areas and similar architectural elements; an archaeological excavation or object that is unique or significant because of its location, design, setting, materials, The clerestory glass is protected from direct sun on three sides by the wide cantilever of the concrete roof plane above. 06 City Council Staff Report January 4, 2017 Case HSPB-99"The Tram Way Shell Gas Station" Page 6 of 11 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive The masonry and glass building below the canopy that contains the service garage, mini-mart, cashier's station, storage and toilets, is visually distinct and separate from the taller concrete canopy. Most of the building beneath the canopy has its own separate roof. The only connection between the two occurs in the service bay, where clerestory windows in the service bay enclose the interior volume of that space up to the underside of the concrete canopy' — giving it the necessary height for cars to be lifted on hydraulic hoists for service and providing a great amount of natural daylight. The clerestory windows and separate low roof structure of the masonry building give the illusion that the canopy and building are two separate parts and that the masonry and glass building is "slid" partially under the concrete canopy. From early photos in newspaper advertisements announcing the opening of the station, it can be seen that the original front fagade of the service garage / attendant's office was comprised of floor to ceiling glass that wrapped the north side and the west side of the attendant's office with a very thin roof edge fascia. This type of detail can be found on other significant commissions designed by William Cody including the Thunderbird Country Club and a residence on Camino Norte in Palm Springs. F 11�F R ENLARGED DETAIL FROM NEWSPAPER ARTICLE SHOWING FLOOR TO CEILING GLASS FRONT AT ATTENDANT'S OFFICE(CENTER OF PHOTO),CLERESTORY WINDOWS OVER SERVICE GARAGE(LEFT) FINDINGS — DEFINITION OF AN HISTORIC SITE Palm Springs Municipal Code (PSMC) Section 8.05.020 provides the definition and criteria against which the Historic Site Preservation Board (HSPB) must evaluate a site for consideration of possible historic designation. The site is evaluated against these criteria below. (a) Historic Site. An historic site is any real property such as: a building; a structure, including but not limited to archways, tiled areas and similar architectural elements; an archaeological excavation or object that is unique or significant because of its location, design, setting, materials, The clerestory glass is protected from direct sun on three sides by the wide cantilever of the concrete roof plane above. 06 City Council Staff Report January 4, 2017 Case HSPB-99"The Tram Way Shell Gas Station' Page 7 of 11 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive workmanship or aesthetic effect and: The site is significant because of the design of the building -- which is reflective of the minimalist aesthetic of the mid-century modern period, it features a unique type of thin-shell concrete construction, and it is associated with an architect of regional significance. 1. That is associated with events that have made a meaningful contribution to the nation, state or community; or The Report notes that subject site is not associated with a singular event that made a meaningful contribution in history. The building was constructed in response to a commercial need for auto service stations to support the growing transportation trends and increased mobility of the American public in the late 50's and early 60's. 2. That is associated with lives of persons who made meaningful contribution to national, state or local history; or The Report does not identify a person of significance associated with the site. The original owner of the site, M.E. Frazier was apparently active in community and civic life in Palm Springs but the site itself was not found to have a direct association with a person of significance. The station was operated by a Bob Simmons. Simmons worked as an assistant manager at a Shell gas station on the south side of Palm Springs. No information was discovered about Simmons that would suggest he was a person of local significance. 3. That reflects or exemplifies a particular period of the national, state or local history, or The Report states that the site exemplifies the post-World War II period of development of Palm Springs during which the City grew from a relatively small town of custom-designed homes and businesses in traditional "revival" styles of architecture to a world-renowned resort community in which businesses, developers and homeowners embraced the bold, minimalist forms of Modern-era architecture. Development in Palm Springs during the post-World War II period also reflected the growth of the "auto-oriented culture" in the United States — a period in which service stations, drive in and drive through restaurants, banks, movie theaters, and other "auto-centric" building forms became popular and common. The Report notes that the subject property is a product and reflection of postwar transportation trends and the effect it had on auto-related commercial development. More specifically, in this period, the City's Planning Commission and City Council determined that the service stations in Palm Springs, although utilitarian in nature, should be as beautiful, stylish and well-designed as other more fashionable building types. Six gas stations were designed by notable architects during this period, of which only two survive (the Tram Way Esso / Enco service station, now the Palm Springs Visitor's Center at 2901 North Palm Canyon 07 City Council Staff Report January 4, 2017 Case HSPB-99 "The Tram Way Shell Gas Station' Page 8 of 11 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive Way2, and the station that is the subject of this staff report). 4. That embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction; The Report notes that Cody's Shell Gas Station design is exemplary of the mid-century modern design aesthetic. It is also a notable example of thin-shell reinforced concrete building technology. The technology behind modern thin-shell reinforced concrete began to develop in the early 1920's and has been used in many innovative structures worldwide. In terms of the evolution of design of automobile service and fueling stations, the site also reflects the "stylized box", a simple building typology with bold forms (noted in the expansive concrete canopy) intended to capture the attention of motorists. The vast area of the concrete canopy also pre- saged the much larger gasoline service station canopies that began to emerge nationally in the 1980's and 1990's. 5. That presents the work of a master builder, designer, artist, or architect whose individual genius influenced his age; or that possesses high artistic value; The design of the building on the site is credited to architect William F. Cody (1916 — 1978). As noted in the Report, Cody is an accomplished architect who practiced in the Palm Springs area during the peak of the mid-century modern era, from about 1942 until 1972. Cody designed a number of notable structures in Palm Springs, and throughout the Coachella Valley, the southwestern United States, Mexico and Cuba. As noted in the Report, Cody's designs have been celebrated for their unique minimalist aesthetic and include The Del Marcos Hotel (1947, HSPB #78), The Thunderbird Country Club (1950), L'Horizon Hotel (1952), The Palm Springs Spa Resort (1960), The Racquet Club Cottages West (1960, HSPB #88 / HD-3), The James Abernathy Residence (1962, HSPB #86), Saint Theresa's Catholic Church (1968), the Palm Springs Library Center (1972) and others. Cody is considered one of the preeminent architects from the mid-century modern period and whose work contributed to the unique modernist design aesthetic that has become known as "desert modern". 6. That represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction; The Report states that this criterion does not apply. 7. That has yielded or may be likely to yield information important to national, state or local history or prehistory. The Report states that the subject property does not meet this criterion. FINDINGS — HISTORIC PRESERVATION PURPOSE PSMC Section 8.05.145 states that the HSPB shall make findings in support of a z Various references denote the Tram Way station carried both the Enco and the Esso brand names. 08 City Council Staff Report January 4, 2017 Case HSPB-99 "The Tram Way Shell Gas Station" Page 9 of 11 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive recommendation to the City Council for historic designation and Section 8.05.160 states that in receiving such recommendation, the City Council shall find that the purposes of the Historic Preservation ordinance are furthered by designation of the property as a historic site or district. The purpose of the Historic Preservation chapter is outlined as follows: This chapter is adopted pursuant to the authority of (California) Government Code Section 37361 for the purpose of preserving areas and specific buildings of the city which reflect elements of its cultural, social, economic, political, architectural and archaeological history. This chapter is intended to stabilize and improve buildings, structures or areas which are considered to be of historical, architectural, archaeological or ecological value, to foster civic beauty, to strengthen the local economy and to promote the use of specific buildings for the education and welfare of the citizens. As noted above, the Report asserts the factors in support of Classl historic site designation for the subject site. A draft resolution is attached to this staff report reflecting those findings. Staff believes that the station's defining characteristics that contribute to its historic significance are: • The very thin cast-in-place, reinforced concrete upper canopy supported on evenly spaced thin steel columns, including the thin fascia profile. • The "expressed structure" of the "X"-bracing as ornament on the underside of the concrete canopy. • The integral recessed light "troffers" in the underside of the canopy. • The 'floating" effect of the canopy above the masonry and glass service / mini-mart building created by the visual separation between the top of the service / mini-mart building and the upper canopy. • The clerestory windows set within very thin aluminum frames which allow the service bay to be taller in height, while still appearing structurally separate from the concrete canopy above. These windows, shielded from direct sun by the deep cantilever of the concrete roof plane, also flood the service bay with ample natural light. • The "solid masonry box" comprised of slump-stone concrete block that contains the service bay alongside the "glass box" of the attendant's office, (this "glass box" characteristic created by a floor-to-ceiling glass and aluminum curtain wail was apparently removed in the 1980's mini-mart addition, but could be rebuilt to again convey this original detail). • The "visual movement" created by the lower "box building" which seems to be sliding out from under the taller concrete canopy, (this visual effect is further enhanced by the separation of the lower building from most of the columns of the upper canopy). • The use of commonly available, mass-produced, rustic slump stone concrete masonry units that provide texture and contrast to the full-height glass of the original attendant's office. • The corrugated metal overhead doors of the service bay (east and north side of the building). 09 City Council Staff Report January 4, 2017 Case HSPB-99"The Tram Way Shell Gas Station' Page 10 of 11 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive • The thin-roofed "porte-cochere" on the south fagade of the building including the perforated metal plank ceiling panels. • The recessed light troffers cast into the underside of the upper concrete canopy. Those aspects of the site which staff believes do not contribute to its historic significance include the following: Those portions of the building that comprise the 1984 addition. • The gasoline pumps (recently replaced). • The asphalt parking areas and drive areas. • The storage sheds and gasoline vapor recovery apparatus on the east side of the building. • The metal halide "box" type lighting fixtures on the underside of the canopy. • The signage on site. IMPACT AND BENEFITS OF CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE DESIGNATION: A Class 1 historic site may be physically modified and the uses of the site changed in accordance with the regulations set forth in the Palm Springs Municipal Code (PSMC) Section 8.05. Exterior modifications require approval by the HSPB pursuant to PSMC 8.05.180. Interior modifications of Class 1 historic sites typically require building permits and Planning Department approvals and are regulated pursuant to Municipal Code Section 8.05.195 ("Board action restricted exterior features — Exception') which states: "The Board shall consider and pass upon only the exterior features of a structure and may not consider the interior arrangement of the structure, except in the case of public buildings." The usage of a Class 1 historic site is regulated by the zoning code and PSMC Section 8.05.125 ("Created by Council') which assigns the determination of appropriate uses in historic structures to the City Council: "Structure may not be modified nor objects removed without approval of the City Council, usage may be limited by the City Council to the extent that it may impair the integrity of the site. For example, under its authority granted by PSMC Section 8.05.125, the City Council could limit a proposal seeking to expand the mini-mart use if the Council felt the historic integrity of the site would be impaired by such a proposal. Class 1 historic sites are also eligible for the application of a Mills Act Historic Property Preservation Agreement (a "Mills Act Contract"), in which the owner of the parcel may seek possible property tax reductions in exchange for preserving and maintaining the site's historic features in accordance with the United States Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment and Preservation of Historic Structures. (The City does not make any guarantee of 10 City Council Staff Report January 4, 2017 Case HSPB-99 "The Tram Way Shell Gas Station" Page 11 of 11 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive tax adjustment; the property owner must ascertain this from the County Tax Assessors' Office). Class 1 historic sites are also eligible for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places. If approved by the State Office of Historic Preservation, (OHP), the site may be eligible for other federal tax incentives for historic properties. Also, physical modifications to historic structures that require building permits may be eligible for consideration under the State Historic Resource Building Code. ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS: The proposed historic site designation is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) (the activity will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment) and 15060(c)(3) (the activity is not a project as defined in Section 15378) of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3, because it has no potential for resulting in physical changes to the environment, directly or indirectly. NOTIFICATION Pursuant to section 8.05.140 of the Municipal Code of Palm Springs, All property owners within five hundred (500) feet of the subject property have been notified and notice was made in a newspaper of general circulation. The agenda for today's meeting was also made available to recognized neighborhood organizations within a half-mile radius of the subject site. As of the writing of this report, staff has not received any inquiries on this matter. r 4x4m, '. L Flinn Fagg, AICP M cus L. Fuller, MPA, PE, PLS Director of Planning Services Assistant City Manager/City Engineer David H. Ready, Esq., City Manager ATTACHMENTS: 1. Vicinity Map 2. Draft Resolution 3. Minute Excerpt — HSPB meeting of December 13, 2016, Resolution HSPB #99. 4. 2004 Citywide Historic Resource Survey pages on the subject site. 5. Historic Resource Report dated December 5, 2016 from Architectural Resources Group. 11 N `OG Y PLM 3p4Z Department of Planning Services W F: Vicinity Map ,[IfOQ� RGA6 aPt� RGA6 PD RGA6 R3 pICO RD �P !"RGA6 SAN MARCO WAY -- -- SEPULVEDA RD ;O RGA6 FCr RGA6.. C1 'pp R1C RGA6 ... Ilk 90 C1 ..... DO -..,. RGA6, ......... R1 C Legend -- ALVARADORD R1C RGA6 ®Site 500'Radius CABRILLO RD RGA6 aZorung ......._ C1 ----- Parcels R1C _. RIC RGA6 R CITY OF PALM SPRINGS HSPB 99 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive 12 RESOLUTION NO. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, DESIGNATING THE PARCEL LOCATED AT 2796 NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE (APN #504-091- 001), 'THE TRAM WAY SHELL GAS STATION", A CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE (#HSPB 99) (ZONE C-1 / RGA-6 / RESORT COMBINING ZONE). THE CITY COUNCIL FINDS AND DETERMINES AS FOLLOWS: A. On January 12, 2016 at a regularly scheduled meeting of the Historic Site Preservation Board (the 'Board"), the Board initiated study pursuant to Municipal Code Section 8.05.135 on the parcel located at 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive, `The Tram Way Shell Gas Station", to consider the possible historic significance of the parcel. B. The City commissioned the professional services consultant, Architectural Resources Group ("ARG") to investigate the possible historic significance of the parcel and produce a historic resources report (the 'Report" or "ARG Report") summarizing their findings. The Report was received by the City on October 6, 2016 and was distributed to members of the Board at their regularly scheduled meeting of October 11, 2016. A revised version of the Report was distributed dated December 5, 2016 that corrected minor details in the Report. C. On October 17th, October 24th, October 26th and November 3rd, 2016, members of the Board and City staff conducted inspections of the subject site to further inform themselves on its possible historic significance. D. A written notice of a public hearing of the Board was issued in accordance with applicable law. E. On December 13, 2016 a noticed public hearing to consider Case HSPB 99 was held by the Board in accordance with applicable law. F. The proposed historic site designation is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) (the activity will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment) and 15060(c)(3) (the activity is not a project as defined in Section 15378) of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3, because it has no potential for resulting in physical changes to the environment, directly or indirectly. G. At said meeting the Board carefully reviewed and considered all of the evidence presented in connection with the hearing on the project, including, but not limited to, the staff report, the ARG Report, and all written and oral testimony presented and voted 5- 13 City Council Resolution# January 4, 2017 Case HSPB#99—The Tram Way Shell Gas Station 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive Page 2 of 6 0-2 (Dixon / Marsh absent) to recommend that the City Council designate the site at 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive "The Tram Way Shell Gas Station" as Class 1 historic site HSPB #99. H. A written notice of public hearing of the City Council was issued in accordance with applicable law. I. On January 4, 2017 a noticed public hearing to consider Case HSPB 99 was held by the City Council in accordance with applicable law. At said meeting the City Council carefully reviewed and considered all of the evidence presented in connection with the hearing on the project, including, but not limited to, the staff report, the ARG Report, and all written and oral testimony presented J. REQUIRED FINDINGS: In considering a recommendation for Class 1 historic designation, pursuant to PSMC 8.05.160, the City Council must make findings that the purposes of the Historic Preservation chapter are furthered by designation of such property as a historic site or district. The purpose of the Historic Preservation chapter of the Municipal Code is outlined in PSMC 8.05.010: This chapter is adopted pursuant to the authority of (California) Government Code Section 37361 for the purpose of preserving areas and specific buildings of the city which reflect elements of its cultural, social, economic, political, architectural and archaeological history. This chapter is intended to stabilize and improve buildings, structures or areas which are considered to be of historical, architectural, archaeological or ecological value, to foster civic beauty, to strengthen the local economy and to promote the use of specific buildings for the education and welfare of the citizens. The Council determines that Class 1 designation of the Tram Way Shell Gas Station would further the purpose of the historic preservation ordinance because the site reflects elements of the City's architectural, social, and cultural history and meets the definition of a historic site as follows: Definition of a Historic Site. Palm Springs Municipal Code (PSMC) Section 8.05.020 provides the definition and criteria against which the City Council must evaluate a site for consideration of possible historic designation. The City Council determines the site meets the definition of a historic site in the following ways: (a) Historic Site. An historic site is any real property such as: a building; a structure, including but not limited to archways, tiled areas and similar architectural elements; an archaeological excavation or object that is unique or significant because of its location, design, setting, materials, workmanship or aesthetic effect and: 14 City Council Resolution#_ January 4, 2017 Case HSPB#99—The Tram Way Shell Gas Station 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive Page 3 of 6 The site is significant because of its design, which is reflective of the minimalist aesthetic of the mid-century modern period, the type of construction, and its association with an architect of regional significance and because it meets the following criteria that comprise the definition of a historic site: Criterion 3: That reflects or exemplifies a particular period of the national, state or local history; or The ARG Report states that the site exemplifies the post-World War II period of development of Palm Springs during which the City grew from a relatively small town of custom-designed homes and businesses in traditional "revival" styles of architecture to a world-renowned resort community in which businesses, developers and homeowners embraced the bold, minimalist forms of Modern-era architecture. Development in Palm Springs during the post-World War II period also reflected the growth of the "auto-related culture" in the United States — a period in which service stations, drive in and drive through restaurants, banks, movie theaters, and other "auto- centric" building forms became popular and common. The ARG Report notes that the subject property is a product and reflection of postwar transportation trends and the effect it had on auto-related commercial development. More specifically, in this period, the City's Planning Commission and City Council determined that the service stations in Palm Springs, although utilitarian in nature, should be as beautiful, stylish and well-designed as other more fashionable building types. Six gas stations were designed by notable architects during this period, of which only two survive (the Tram Way Esso / Enco service station, now the Palm Springs Visitor's Center at 2901 North Palm Canyon Way', and the station at 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive. Criterion 4: That embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction; The ARG Report notes that Cody's Shell Gas Station design is exemplary of the mid- century modern design aesthetic. It is also a notable example of thin-shell reinforced concrete building technology. The technology behind modern thin-shell reinforced concrete began to develop in the early 1920's and was used in many innovative structures worldwide. In terms of the evolution of design of automobile service and fueling stations, the site also reflects the "stylized box", a simple building typology with bold forms (noted in the expansive concrete canopy) intended to capture the attention of motorists. The vast area of the concrete canopy also pre-saged the much larger gasoline service station canopies that began to emerge nationally in the 1980's and 1990's. Various references denote the Tram Way station carried both the Enco and the Esso brand names. 15 City Council Resolution#_ January 4, 2017 Case HSPB#99—The Tram Way Shell Gas Station 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive Page 4 of 6 Criterion 5: That presents the work of a master builder, designer, artist, or architect whose individual genius influenced his age; or that possesses high artistic value; The design of the building on the site is credited to architect William F. Cody (1916 — 1978). As noted in the ARG Report, Cody is an accomplished architect who practiced in the Palm Springs area during the peak of the mid-century modern era, from about 1942 until 1972. Cody designed a number of notable structures in Palm Springs, and throughout the Coachella Valley, the southwestern United States, Mexico and Cuba. As noted in the ARG Report, Cody's designs have been celebrated for their unique minimalist aesthetic and include The Del Marcos Hotel (1947, HSPB #78), The Thunderbird Country Club (1950), L'Horizon Hotel (1952), The Palm Springs Spa Resort (1960), The Racquet Club Cottages West (1960, HSPB #88 / HD-3), The James Abernathy Residence (1962, HSPB #86), Saint Theresa's Catholic Church (1968), the Palm Springs Library Center (1972) and others. Cody is considered one of the preeminent architects from the mid-century modern period and whose work contributed to the unique modernist design aesthetic that has become known as "desert modern". Based on the above, the Council determines that Class 1 historic site designation of the parcel located at 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive, "The Tram Way Shell Gas Station" would further the purpose of the City's historic preservation ordinance. K. Defining historic characteristics of the site. The City Council determines that the physical defining characteristics that contribute to the site's historic significance are: • The very thin cast-in-place, reinforced concrete upper canopy supported on evenly spaced thin steel columns, including the thin fascia profile. • The "expressed structure" of the "X"-bracing as ornament on the underside of the concrete canopy. • The integral recessed light "troffers" in the underside of the canopy. • The "floating" effect of the canopy above the masonry and glass service / market building created by the visual separation between the top of the service / market building and the upper canopy. • The clerestory windows set within very thin aluminum frames which allow the service bay to be taller in height, while still appearing structurally separate from the concrete canopy above. These windows, shielded from direct sun by the deep cantilever of the concrete roof plane, also flood the service bay with ample natural light. • The "solid masonry box" comprised of slump-stone concrete block that contains the service bay alongside the "glass box" of the attendant's office, (this "glass box" characteristic created by a floor-to-ceiling glass and aluminum curtain wail was removed in the 1980's mini-mart addition, but could be rebuilt to again convey this feature. • The "visual movement" created by the lower "box building" which seems to be sliding out from under the taller concrete canopy, further enhanced by the 16 City Council Resolution #_ January 4, 2017 Case RSPB#99—The Tram Way Shell Gas Station 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive Page 5 of 6 separation of the lower building from the columns of the upper canopy. • The use of commonly available, mass-produced, rustic slump stone concrete masonry units that provide texture and contrast to the full-height glass of the original attendant's office. • The corrugated metal overhead doors of the service bay (east and north side of the building). • The thin-roofed "porte-cochere" on the south fagade of the building including the perforated metal plank ceiling panels. L. Non contributing elements. Those aspects of the site which the City Council believes do not contribute to its historic significance include the following: • Those portions of the building that comprise the 1984 addition. • The gasoline pumps (recently replaced). • The asphalt parking areas and drive areas. • The storage sheds and gasoline vapor recovery apparatus on the east side of the building. • The metal halide surface mounted light boxes on the underside of the concrete canopy. • The signage on site. THE CITY COUNCIL RESOLVES: Based upon the foregoing, the City Council of the City of Palm Springs, California hereby designates the parcel located at 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive "The Tram Way Shell Gas Station", (APN #504-091-001), a Class 1 Historic Site #HSPB 99. ADOPTED THIS FOURTH DAY OF JANUARY, 2017. MAYOR ATTEST: City Clerk CERTIFICATION STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE ) ss. CITY OF PALM SPRINGS ) I, JAMES THOMPSON, City Clerk of the City of Palm Springs, California, do hereby certify that Resolution No. is a full, true, and correct copy, and was introduced at a regular meeting of the Palm Springs City Council on and 17 City Council Resolution# January 4, 2017 Case HSPB#99—The Tram Way Shell Gas Station 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive Page 6 of 6 adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council held on by the following vote: AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: James Thompson, City Clerk City of Palm Springs, California 18 EXCERPTS OF MINUTES At the Historic Site Preservation Board meeting of the City of Palm Springs, held December 13, 2016, the Historic Site Preservation Board took the following action: 2.A. CONSIDERATION BY THE HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD (HSPB) FOR CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE DESIGNATION OF THE AUTOMOBILE SERVICE STATION LOCATED AT 2796 NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE "THE CODY GAS STATION" (CASE HSPB #99, ZONE C-1 / RGA-6 / RESORT COMBINING ZONE, APN: 504-091-001) Staff member Lyon summarized the staff report. Member Marsh asked about the City's procedure for naming potentially historic structures, (Lyon noted typically named after the original occupant or owner, in this case The Tram Way Shell Gas Station). Chair Johns opened the public hearing. ROBERT IMBER, of Palm Springs Modern Tours, spoke in support of Class 1 historic designation of the subject site. JACOB YOUSEF, representing the property owner noted no objection to historic designation but expressed concern about limitations and cost implications of Class 1 designation on future desires to adapt the facility to other uses. Member Hays asked Mr. Yousef to clarify the owner's renovation ideas (Mr. Yousef noted that at this time, only the interior masonry wall was of interest to the owner to remove to expand the mini-mart into the service bay.) Member Kiser asked for clarification on how Class 1 historic designation would impact the owner's desire to remove the interior brick wall, (Staff Lyon explained that interior alterations are not subject to HSPB review.) Member La Voie further clarified that removal of the masonry interior wall would not be subject to review by the HSPB. (Staff member Lyon noted that Class 1 historic designation would actually give greater clarity and limits on what the Board would need to review in terms of modifications to the site.) Chair Johns noted examples of modifications to the site that would be reviewed by the HSPB would be things such as removal of the parapets, roof mounted equipment, changes in exterior doors, and similar exterior changes. Staff Lyon noted point that if the City Council designates the property as a Class 1 historic site, the owner could make application for a Mills Act Historic Property 19 Minute Excerpt — Historic Site Preservation Board meeting of December 13, 2016. Item 2.A. Case HSPB #99 The Tram Way Shell Gas Station Page 2 of 3 Preservation Agreement which could potentially result in a reduction in property tax (the owner would have to ascertain this with the county). The building owner, GERGIS YOUSEF asked questions about the Mills Act Contract opportunities and what was staff's recommendation (Lyon noted staff recommends Class 1 designation based on the information in the historic resource report.) MARIO BERARDI, asked about the clerestory glass, if it were replaced, would the glass be clear, dual glazed or something else? (Member La Voie noted clear glass would be preferred and Staff Lyon noted it is an issue that may be appropriate for review under the State Historic Resource Building Code which may exempt the building from requirements of some of the requirements of the State energy code.) Seeing no other speakers, the chair closed the public hearing. Member La Voie commented on the thoroughness of the historic resources report. Member Hays asked if the roof mounted swamp cooler, parapet and other non- original elements could be removed as part of other exterior work that would be reviewed by the board. (Staff Lyon noted yes). The board asked whether the recommendation could include conditions requiring the removal of the roof-mounted equipment and non-original parapet (Lyon explained that the Board could encourage, but not require, removal of those elements, since there is no current application pending RSPB review for their removal). Staff Lyon noted that staff will reach out to the building owner to further explain opportunities such as the Mills Act Contract. ACTION: M/S/C: La Voie / Burkett (6-0-1, Dixon absent), to adopt Resolution #99: "A RESOLUTION OF THE HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL DESIGNATE THE PARCEL AT 2796 NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE (APN #504-091-001), "THE TRAM WAY SHELL GAS STATION", A CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE (#HSPB 99) (ZONE C-1 / RGA-6)." The Board added that they would like to encourage the building owner to consider restoration of the building's historic integrity as part of any future proposal to modify the building, (i.e. remove the A/C package unit, swamp cooler, non-original metal parapet and restore the clerestory windows as proposed by the owner.) 20 Minute Excerpt— Historic Site Preservation Board meeting of December 13, 2016. Item 2.A. Case HSPB #99 The Tram Way Shell Gas Station Page 3 of 3 I, JOANNE BRUGGEMANS, Senior Secretary for the City of Palm Springs, hereby certify that the above action was taken by Historic Site Preservation Board of the City of Palm Springs on the 8`h day of December, 2016, by the following vote: AYES: Johns, Burkett, La Voie, Hays, Kiser, Marsh NOES: (none) ABSENT: Dixon Joanne Brugge s Senior Secretary i 21 RESOLUTION NO. HSPB 99 A RESOLUTION OF THE HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL DESIGNATE THE PARCEL AT 2796 NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE (APN #504-091- 001), 'THE CODY GAS STATION", A CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE (#HSPB 99) (ZONE C-1 / RGA-6). THE HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD FINDS AND DETERMINES AS FOLLOWS: A. On January 12, 2016 at a regularly scheduled meeting of the Historic Site Preservation Board (the 'Board"), the Board initiated study pursuant to Municipal Code Section 8.05.135 on the parcel located at 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive, 'The Tram Way Shell Gas Station", to consider the possible historic significance of the parcel. B. The City commissioned the professional services consultant, Architectural Resources Group ("ARG) to investigate the possible historic significance of the parcel and produce a historic resources report (the 'Report" or "ARG Report") summarizing their findings. The Report was received by the City on October 6, 2016 and was distributed to members of the Board at their regularly scheduled meeting of October 11, 2016. C. On October 17th, October 24th, October 26th and November 3rd, 2016, members of the Board and City staff conducted inspections of the subject site to further inform themselves on its possible historic significance. D. A written notice of a public hearing of the Board was issued in accordance with applicable law. E. On December 13, 2016 a noticed public hearing to consider Case HSPB 99 was held by the Board in accordance with applicable law. F. The proposed historic site designation is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) (the activity will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment) and 15060(c)(3) (the activity is not a project as defined in Section 15378) of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3, because it has no potential for resulting in physical changes to the environment, directly or indirectly. G. At said meeting the Board carefully reviewed and considered all of the evidence presented in connection with the hearing on the project, including, but not limited to, the staff report, the ARG Report, and all written and oral testimony presented. H. Findings — Definition of a Historic Site. Palm Springs Municipal Code (PSMC) Section 8.05.020 provides the definition and criteria against which the Board must evaluate a site for 22 Historic Site Preservation Board Resolution #99 December 13, 2016 Case HSPB#99—The Cody Gas Station 276 North Palm Canyon Drive Page 2 of 4 consideration of possible historic designation. The Board determines the site meets the definition of a historic site in the following ways: (a) Historic Site. An historic site is any real property such as: a building; a structure, including but not limited to archways, tiled areas and similar architectural elements; an archaeological excavation or object that is unique or significant because of its location, design, setting, materials, workmanship or aesthetic effect and: The site is significant because of its design, which is reflective of the minimalist aesthetic of the mid-century modern period, the type of construction, and its association with an architect of regional significance and because it meets the following criteria that comprise the definition of a historic site: Criterion 3: That reflects or exemplifies a particular period of the national, state or local history; or The ARG Report states that the site exemplifies the post-World War II period of development of Palm Springs during which the City grew from a relatively small town of custom-designed homes and businesses in traditional 'revival' styles of architecture to a world-renowned resort community in which businesses, developers and homeowners embraced the bold, minimalist forms of Modern-era architecture. Development in Palm Springs during the post-World War II period also reflected the growth of the "auto-related culture" in the United States — a period in which service stations, drive in and drive through restaurants, banks, movie theaters, and other "auto-centric" building forms became popular and common. The ARG Report notes that the subject property is a product and reflection of postwar transportation trends and the effect it had on auto-related commercial development. More specifically, in this period, the City's Planning Commission and City Council determined that the service stations in Palm Springs, although utilitarian in nature, should be as beautiful, stylish and well-designed as other more fashionable building types. Six gas stations were designed by notable architects during this period, of which only two survive (the Tram Way Esso I Enco service station, now the Palm Springs Visitor's Center at 2901 North Palm Canyon Way', and the station at 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive. Criterion 4: That embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction; The ARG Report notes that The Tram Way Shell Gas Station design is exemplary of the mid- century modern design aesthetic. It is also a notable example of thin-shell reinforced concrete Various references denote the Tram Way station carried both the Enco and the Esso brand names. 23 Historic Site Preservation Board Resolution #99 December 13, 2016 Case HSPB#99—The Cody Gas Station 276 North Palm Canyon Drive Page 3 of 4 building technology. The technology behind modern thin-shell reinforced concrete began to develop in the early 1920's and was used in many innovative structures worldwide. In terms of the evolution of design of automobile service and fueling stations, the site also reflects the "stylized box", a simple building typology with bold forms (noted in the expansive concrete canopy) intended to capture the attention of motorists. The vast area of the concrete canopy also pre-saged the much larger gasoline service station canopies that began to emerge nationally in the 1980's and 1990's. Criterion 5: That presents the work of a master builder, designer, artist, or architect whose individual genius influenced his age; or that possesses high artistic value; The design of the building on the site is credited to architect William F. Cody (1916 — 1978). As noted in the ARG Report, Cody is an accomplished architect who practiced in the Palm Springs area during the peak of the mid-century modern era, from about 1942 until 1972. Cody designed a number of notable structures in Palm Springs, and throughout the Coachella Valley, the southwestern United States, Mexico and Cuba. As noted in the ARG Report, Cody's designs have been celebrated for their unique minimalist aesthetic and include The Del Marcos Hotel (1947, HSPB #78), The Thunderbird Country Club (1950), L'Horizon Hotel (1952), The Palm Springs Spa Resort (1960), The Racquet Club Cottages West (1960, HSPB #88 / HD-3), The James Abernathy Residence (1962, HSPB #86), Saint Theresa's Catholic Church (1968), the Palm Springs Library Center (1972) and others. Cody is considered one of the preeminent architects from the mid-century modern period and whose work contributed to the unique modernist design aesthetic that has become known as "desert modern". Based on the above criteria, the Board finds that the subject site meets the definition of a historic site. I. Defining historic characteristics of the site. The Board determines that the physical defining characteristics that contribute to the site's historic significance are: • The very thin cast-in-place, reinforced concrete upper canopy supported on evenly spaced thin steel columns, including the thin fascia profile. • The "expressed structure" of the 'X"-bracing as ornament on the underside of the concrete canopy. • The integral recessed light "troffers" in the underside of the canopy. • The "floating" effect of the canopy above the masonry and glass service / market building created by the visual separation between the top of the service / market building and the upper canopy. • The clerestory windows set within very thin aluminum frames which allow the service bay to be taller in height, while still appearing structurally separate from the concrete canopy above. These windows, shielded from direct sun by the deep cantilever of the concrete roof plane, also flood the service bay with ample natural light. • The "solid masonry box' comprised of slump-stone concrete block that contains the service bay alongside the "glass box" of the attendant's office, (this "glass box" 24 Historic Site Preservation Board Resolution #99 December 13, 2016 Case HSPB#99—The Cody Gas Station 276 North Palm Canyon Drive Page 4 of 4 characteristic created by a floor-to-ceiling glass and aluminum curtain wail was removed in the 1980's mini-mart addition, but could be rebuilt to again convey this feature. • The "visual movement" created by the lower "box building" which seems to be sliding out from under the taller concrete canopy, further enhanced by the separation of the lower building from the columns of the upper canopy. • The use of commonly available, mass-produced, rustic slump stone concrete masonry units that provide texture and contrast to the full-height glass of the original attendant's office. • The corrugated metal overhead doors of the service bay (east and north side of the building). • The thin-roofed "porte-cochere" on the south fagade of the building including the perforated metal plank ceiling panels. J. Those aspects of the site which the Board believes do not contribute to its historic significance include the following: • Those portions of the building that comprise the 1984 addition. • The gasoline pumps (recently replaced). • The asphalt parking areas and drive areas. • The storage sheds and gasoline vapor recovery apparatus on the east side of the building. • The metal halide surface mounted light boxes on the underside of the concrete canopy. • The signage on site. THE HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD RESOLVES: Based upon the foregoing, the Historic Site Preservation Board of the City of Palm Springs, California hereby recommends that the City Council designate the parcel at 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive "The Tram Way Shell Gas Station", (APN #504-091-001), a Class 1 Historic Site #HSPB 99. ADOPTED this thirteenth day of December, 2016. AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: T: CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA inn Fagg, AIC Director of Planning Services 25 Page 1 of 3 Resource Name or 1f:(Assigned by recorder) William Cody She(_f Company Gas Station 131.Other identifier: Y 122.Location: CJ Not for Publication ®Unrestricted a. County Riverside_and(P2b and P2c or P2d.Attach a Location Map as necessary.) b.USGS 7.5'Ouad Palm Springs Data 1996 T ; R _ 114 of 1/4 of Sec B.M. c. Address 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive City Palm Springs Zip 92262 d. UTM: (G ve more than one for large anNor linear resources) Zone 11 _ mE1 mN a.Other Localional Data:(e.g.,parcel k,directions to resource,elevation,etc.,as appropriate) — � City of Palm Springs Section 3 Parcel No. 504 091 001 133a.Description:(Describe resource and its major elements.Include design,materials,condition.alterations,size,setting,and boundaries) Originally constructed in 1964, this Shell Company gas station was designed by noted Modernist architect William F.Cody. The gas station is situated on a large comer lot at the intersection of North Palm Canyon Drive and North Yorba Road, and is comprised of an expansive flat rooted canopy measuring approximately thirty feet in height and covering the six pumping lanes. Five squared steel pylons,each anchored into a separate concrete pumping island, support the metal roof structure. A small rectangular shaped building is sited under the eastern end of the canopy, and serves as the mechanic garage and gas station attendant shop. Exterior building materials consist of painted brick and smooth stucco for the exterior walls, and metal-framed clerestory windows. Overall the Cody gas station appears to be well-maintained and in good condition. 3b. Resource Attributes: HP6. 1 3 Story Commercial Building — Structure ------ — ___—_____. ___ ......___._.__. P4.Resources Present: �Building �Structure LW Object []Site �District j_,Element of District ; )Other(Isolates,eic.) PSa. Photo or Drawing(Photo required for buildings,structures,and objects.) P5b. Description of Photo: (view,date,accession t) View East August 2003 P6. Date Constructed/Age and Sources: Z Historic I ,:Prehistoric Both f 1964 P7.Owner and Address: Sobhy G. Yousef 1708 N Palm Canyon Dr G yc t Palm Springs,CA 92262 P8. Recorded by: MaleyfPetrirv7insleyf W atson Architectural Resources Group j Pier 9, the Embarcadero jt San Francisco, CA 94111 P9. Date Recorded: August 2003 Ll P10. Survey Type(Describe) 14W, Reconnaissance Survey P11.Report Citation:(Cite survey report and other sources,or enter"none.") Architectural Resources Group,City of Palm Springs Historic Resources Survey Summary Reporf,2004, ttachments: ,None IE Continuation Sheet District Record Rock Art Record L Other(List) Location Map ®Building,Structure,and Object Record EW Linear Feature Record ;Artifact Record Sketch Map ❑Archaeological Record Milling Station Recordj Photograph Record DPR 523A(1195) State at Calif ornla—The Resources Agency Primary# DepAR wWr of PARKs AND REGREATioN HRI If PRIMARY RECORD Trinomial _ _ NRHP Status Code 5S3'. Other Listings r Revisal Code Reviewer Date Page I—of3 _ Resource Name or#:(Assigned by recorder) William Cody Shell Company Gas Station Pi.other Identifier. P2.Location: ❑Not for Publication ®Unrestricted a.County Riverside and(P2b and 132c or P2d.Atlach a Locatlon Map as necessary.) _ b. USGS 7.5'Quad Palm Springs Date 1996 T _; R 1/4 of _ 114 of Sec B.M. c. Address 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive City Palm Springs Zip 92262 d. UTM: (Give more Then one for large andior linear resources) Zone 11_ ME/ _ mN e. Other Locational Data: (e.g.,parcel#,directions to resource.elevation,etc.,as appropriate) City of Palm Springs Section 3 Parcel No. 504 091 001 P3a. Description:(Describe resource and its major elements.Include design,materials,condition,alterations,size,setting,and boundaries) Originally constructed in 1964, this Shell Company gas station was designed by noted Modernist architect William F.Cody. The gas station is situated on a large corner lot at the intersection of North Palm Canyon Drive and North Yorba Road, and is comprised of an expansive flat roofed canopy measuring approximately thirty feet in height and covering the six pumping lanes. Five squared steel pylons,each anchored into a separate concrete pumping Island, support the metal root structure. A small rectangular shaped building is sited under the eastern end of the canopy,and serves as the mechanic garage and gas station attendant shop. Exterior building materials consist of painted brick and smooth stucco for the exterior walls, and metal-framed clerestory windows. Overall the Cody gas station appears to be well-maintained and in good condition. P3b. Resource Attributes: HP6- 1-3 Story Commercial Building _ - — _ — P4. Resources Present: � Building (�,Structure (--I Object [i Site ❑District ❑Element of District J Other(Isola-- tes,elc.) P5a. Photo or Drawing (Photo required for buildings,structures,and objects.) P5b. Description of Photo: (View,date,accession#) View East August2003 P6. Date Constructed/Age and Sources: ®Historic J Prehistoric ❑Both 1964 P7.Owner and Address: Sobhy G.Yousef 1706 N Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs,CA 92262 P6. Recorded by: - € Maley/Patriry insley/Watson 6 x Architectural Resources Group 1 Pier 9, The Embarcadero San Francisco,CA 94111 P9. Date Recorded: August 2003 P10. Survey Type(Describe) Reconnaissance Survey P11.Report Citation:(Cite survey report and other sources,or enler"none") Architectural Resources Group, City of Palm Springs Historic Resources Survey Summary Report,2004. tta-chments: None Continuation Sheet District Record ©Rock An Record J Other(List) J Location Map ®Building,Structure, and Object Record ,Linear Feature Record ©Artifact Record J Sketch Map ❑Archaeological Record Milling Station Record n Photograph Record DPR 523A(1195) m N ENN � _ D m REE1 1 Fm - ME= R � ge 2�of 3 NRHP Status Code 5S3 a 3 _ Resource Name or#:(Assigned by recorder) William Cody Shell Company Gas Station Bl. Historic Name: Shell Company Gas Station _ 02. Common Name: Shad Company Gas Station _ n ._....__ ___- - _..._.. _ 63. Original Use: Gas Station " 84. Present Use: Gas Station " - .M.___.__.- B6.Construction History: B5.Architectural Style: r - - _ .- � _. - — -- ry:(Construction dale,alterations,and data of alterations) This building was constructed in 1964. B7.Moved? ®No []Yes Unknown Date: Original Location: ._ B8.Related Features: Gas pumps are located on concrete islands. B9a.Architect: William F. Cody b. Builder. Unknown 610.Significance: Theme commercialarchiteclureldevelopment Area Palm Springs Period of Significance 1940s-1960s Property Type commercial building Applicable Criteria A, C{G) (Discuss importance in terms of historical or architectural context as defined by theme,period,and geographic scope.Also address integrity.) '�- For centuries the habitat of the Ague Caliente band of Cahuilla Indians, Palm Springs,site of natural hot springs find sunny desert climate, drew its first non-Indian visitors In the late 19th century. For reasons of improved health and recuperation,the first settlers established early hotels and inns.Not until 1938 did the village of Palm Springs incorporate,setting out a gridded street plan and zoning controls. By then Palm Springs had already acquired an identity as a winter retreat for Hollywood stars and the wealthy,as evidenced by the exclusive older neighborhoods of Old Las Palmas,the Movie Colony,Little Tuscany, and the Tennis Club quarter, Initially built for winter residents. Defined by elegant, grand architecture in predominantly Spanish and Mediterranean styles,these and other neighborhoods were later filled in with mid-century Modern homes by the and of the 1960s. During the post-WWII era,the City o1 Palm Springs prospered, relying on tourism, resorts,and the appeal of golf,tennis, polo, and other sports to fuel the economy. During the Palm Springs heyday,tourists and Hollywood discovered the desert oasis and full-scale hotels,smaller inns, nightclubs and restaurants prospered. Concurrently, from the 1940s through the 1960s,Palm Springs was transformed into an increasingly urban environment, building schools, hospitals and an airport and other civic amenities. The commercial core of the City, long concentrated along the main thoroughfares of Palm Canyon Drive and Indian Canyon Drive, flourished. Expanding residential development began in the early 1960s when large tracts of popular, reasonably priced, Modemist-style homes were constructed by Jack Meiselman and later, George and Robert Alexander throughout Palm Springs. Tract subdivision development was followed by the establishment of condominiums,initially as second-homes in the 1960s. (See Continuation Sheet) Bt 1, Additional Resource Attributes: HP6. 1.3 Story Commercial Building 812. References: Architectural Resources Group, City of Palm Springs Historic (Sketch Map with north arrow required.) Resources Survey Summary Report,2004. (report contains full bibliography) ` M,ChVra1 Yw U�Veca.as ti .. 00a., B13. Remarks: a Ar_ Iw6on nal Ad --I Pl NNrdw WWWyft.AW a ... Maley/PetrinfrmsleylWatson ° wraana c =m 814.Evaluator. - - -- °°$ p e,W e° ° Archftectural Resources Group t Ar - w sep,w.e,ro -„ Date of Evaluation: August 20D3 SAP oµ'° wawa aoaao (This space reserved for official comments.) y 2 wc«b=Ad # -`" wto ncgaua cwo an �� a n i 1 a o, NORTH im-Jnc,.osooixe.d.mn?ecmnn°�.. wvarows .._.. DPR 523E(1195) 27, ge 2 of 3— NRHP Status Code 5S3 a 3 Resource Name or N:(Assigned by recorder) William Cody ShOCompany Gas Station B1. Historic Name: Shell Company Gas Station B2. Common Name: Shelf Company Gas Station _...._.___ _._ T ___. B3. original Use: Gas St_atron Ba.present— Usa: Gas Station 85.ArchitecturalStyle: _ ,_.._.._..._. ___ --- 86.Construction History:(Conalrucgon date,akeratbns,and dale of alterations) This building was constructed in 1964. B7.Moved? ®No El Yes Ll Unknown Date: Original Location: B8. Related Features: -- Gas pumps are located on concrete islands. 119a.Architect: William F. Cody b. Builder. Unknown 810,51lgrilficance: Theme commercial archifeclure/development Area Palm Springs Period of Significance 1940s-1960s Property Type commercial building Applicable Criteria A, C(G) ---- (Discuss importance terms of historical or architectural context as defined by theme,period,and geographic scope.Also address Integrity.) For centuries the habitat of the Ague Caliente band of Cahuilla Indians,Palm Springs,site of natural hot springs and sunny desert climate, drew its first non-Indian visitors In the late 191h century. For reasons of improved health and recuperation,the first settlers established early hotels and inns.Not until 1938 did the village of Palm Springs incorporate,setting out a gridded street plan and zoning controls. By then Palm Springs had already acquired an identity as a winter retreat for Hollywood stars and the wealthy,as evidenced by the exclusive older neighborhoods of Old Las Palmas,the Movie Colony,Little Tuscany, and the Tennis Club quarter, Initially built for winter residents. Defined by elegant,grand architecture in predominantly Spanish and Mediterranean styles,these and other neighborhoods were later filled in with mid-century Modem homes by the end of the 1960s. During the post-WWII era, the City of Palm Springs prospered, relying on tourism, resorts,and the appeal of golf,tennis,polo, and other sports to fuel the economy. During the Palm Springs heyday, tourists and Hollywood discovered the desert oasis and fulkscate hotels, smaller inns, nightclubs and restaurants prospered. Concurrently, from the 1940s through the 1960s, Palm Springs was transformed into an increasingly urban environment, building schools, hospitals and an airport and other civic amenities. The commercial core of the City, long concentrated along the main thoroughfares at Palm Canyon Drive and Indian Canyon Drive, flourished. Expanding residential development began in the early 1960s when large tracts of popular, reasonably priced, Modemist-style homes were constructed by Jack Meiselman and later, George and Robert Alexander throughout Palm Springs. Tract subdivision development was followed by the establishment of condominiums, initially as second-homes in the 1960s. (See Continuation Sheet) 811.Additional Resource Attributes: HP6. 1.3 Story Commercial Building 812. References: Architectural Resources Group, City of Palm Springs Historic (Sketch Map with north arrow required.) Resources Survey Summary Report,2l)04.(report contains full bibliography) IWL,zvw-.ndGsm. B13. Ramarks: ureY er p o ..... aagn °t t, W6ima GUW.Ad a Maley/Pelnn/rmsley/Walson °, " WV�.Rd a = 814. Evaluator: Rd Architectural Resources Group — rws°µwmw Date of Evaluation: August 2003 4� WA4uyG,qd o F y� W Germ ra (This space reserved for official comments.) <<e y y W cak=94 a . z w � c c NORTH«nree_osvarx..anan.Twnmw.a DPR 5238(1195) me rwrrl age 3 of 3 Resource Name or#:(Assigned by recorder) WOU rn Cody Shelf Company Gas Station Recorded by MeleylPelriniTinsleyMetsontrch.Resources Group Date August 2003 Continuation ❑Update 610. Significance Continued The Shell Company gas station at 2796 North Palm Canyon is a unique reflection of the Modernist idiom within the context of commercial development in Palm Springs from the 1940s through the 1960s. The structure was built In 1964 and has not undergone any apparent modifications since it was constructed. The structure retains a high degree of integrity;the location, setting, design,materials,workmanship, feeling, and association all appear to remain intact. The gas station appears to meet the level of significance necessary for Individual National Register of Historic Places or California Register of Historical Resources eligibility at the local level. The station is significant as a unique example of the Modem style successfully applied to utilitarian structures. The Shell station was designed by a master architect,William F.Cody,and thus maintains an elevated degree of significance. Because of the structure's visual quality, history,intact setting, and high integrity,and as an outstanding example of commercial architecture,the building represents the overall commercial development of this neighborhood in the post-war era. This property is nearing 50 years of age. According to National Register Bulletin 15, properties that have achieved significance within the last 50 years, must meet Criteria G. This consideration of exceptional Importance guards against the listing of properties of passing contemporary interest. As staled above,this property appears to meet the level of significance necessary for individual National Register of Historic Places or California Register of Historical Resources eligibility at the local level and is significant as a unique example of the Modem style successfully applied to utilitarian structures,designed by a master architect,William F. Cody. 28 DPR 523L(1195) t 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive Historic Resources Report Prepared for: City of Palm Springs Department of Planning Services 3200 Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs, California 92263 Prepared by: j Architectural -_ Resources Group Pasadena, California December 5, 2016 29 TABLE OF CONTENTS I. INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................................1 II. ARCHITECTURAL DESCRIPTION.......................................................................................... 2 Siteand Setting.........................................................................................................................................2 BuildingExterior........................................................................................................................................5 III.ALTERATIONS AND CHRONOLOGY OF DEVELOPMENT..................................................8 IV. HISTORIC CONTEXTS...........................................................................................................10 Post World War II Commercial Development in Palm Springs...............................................................10 ThePostwar Gas Station.........................................................................................................................12 Mid-Century Modern Architecture.........................................................................................................21 WilliamF.Cody.......................................................................................................................................23 V. REGULATIONS AND CRITERIA FOR EVALUATION .......................................................... 25 City of Palm Springs Historic Site............................................................................................................25 VI. EVALUATION OF SIGNIFICANCE....................................................................................... 27 Previous Surveys and Designations ........................................................................................................27 City of Palm Springs Historic Site............................................................................................................28 VII. INTEGRITY ANALYSIS........................................................................................................30 Summaryof Integrity..............................................................................................................................33 VIII. CONCLUSION.....................................................................................................................34 IX. BIBLIOGRAPHY.................................................................................................................... 35 Books, Periodicals, and Other Published Materials................................................................................35 OtherSources .........................................................................................................................................36 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP i 30 I. INTRODUCTION At the request of the City of Palm Springs' Department of Planning Services, Architectural Resources Group (ARG) has prepared this Historic Resources Report for the property located at 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, Riverside County, California. 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive is occupied by a one-story, commercial gas station comprising a series of gasoline fueling pumps, a mini-mart/convenience store, and a service garage. It was constructed in 1964 and designed in the Mid-Century Modern style by William F. Cody, FAIA. ARG has evaluated the property's eligibility for listing as a City of Palm Springs Class 1 Historic Site. Completion of this assessment involved a site visit and visual inspection of the building on August 4, 2016; compilation and review of historic building permits and project documents obtained from the Palm Springs Building Department; primary and secondary source research conducted through various online repositories including a database of digitized Desert Sun issues in the California Digital Newspaper Collection, as well as the collection of William F. Cody papers located at the Robert E. Kennedy Library at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo; development of applicable historic contexts and themes; evaluation of the building's eligibility under City of Palm Springs Class 1 Historic Site criteria; and evaluation of the building's historic integrity. This report was prepared by Katie E. Horak, Principal, and Mickie Torres-Gil, both of whom meet the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualification Standards for Architectural History.' In summary, ARG finds that the property at 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive is eligible for listing as a City of Palm Springs Class 1 Historic Site. The following report provides a contextual basis for analysis and a detailed discussion of how this determination was made. i Katie E.Horak is a Principal and Architectural Historian in ARG's Pasadena office,with 12 years of experience in the field.She is a graduate of the Master of Heritage Conservation program at the University of Southern California(USC).Mickie Torres-Gil is an Architectural Historian at ARG's Pasadena office,with two years of experience in the field.She is also a graduate of the Master of Heritage Conservation program at USC. 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive-Historic Resources Report December S, 2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 1 31 II. ARCHITECTURAL DESCRIPTION Site and Setting r Location map.The subject property, 2796 N.Palm Canyon Dr.,is indicated with a red and white star (courtesy of maps.google.com) 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive (the subject property) is located at the southeast corner of N. Palm Canyon Drive (California State Route 111) and W.Yorba Road in the City of Palm Springs, Riverside County, California. It is located in the northerly part of the urbanized area of the city, approximately two miles north of the Central Business District. The topography of the area is generally flat, though the area west of N. Palm Canyon Drive embarks on a gradual upward slope into the San Jacinto Mountains and the Chino Cone alluvial fan. N. Palm Canyon Drive charts a skewed northwest-southeast course from Interstate 10 into the city's central core; at W. Vista Chino, south of the subject property, State Route 111 cuts east, while N. Palm Canyon Drive continues southward. Secondary arteries immediately adjacent to the subject property generally conform to the skewed axis generated by N. Palm Canyon Drive in this portion of the city. The remainder of the city generally follows an orthogonal grid oriented in the north-south direction. 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 2 32 v�- Al �" N.Palm Canyon Dr. (CA State Route - 111)and N.Indian " Canyon Dr.,to the ,1A7 1 :;.•c^ { left and right, respectively,1956 (Los Angeles Public Library Photo Collection). The subject property is occupied by a one-story gas station and located in a neighborhood of low-density commercial properties and modest one-story, single- and multi-family residences comprising the neighborhoods of Racquet Club West and Chino Canyon (to the east and west, respectively). Low-scale commercial development occurs along N. Palm Canyon Drive, a major thoroughfare on the City's General Plan Circulation Map, though many parcels along the thoroughfare remain undeveloped in the northern portion of the city. Much of the development surrounding the subject property occurred between the 1970s and early 2000s,though the subdivision of land and some construction occurred prior to this. 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive occupies a 100-by-200 foot rectilinear parcel sited on an irregular block that conforms to the angled axis of N. Palm Canyon Drive?The block is bounded by N. Palm Canyon Drive to the west, W. Yorba Road to the north, N. Los Felices Road to the east, and W. Alvarado Road to the south. The portion of the block south of the parcel comprises mostly undeveloped parcels fronting N. Palm Canyon Drive, with the exception of a small residential property sited approximately halfway between W. Yorba and W. Alvarado Roads and fronting N. Los Felices Road. 'Though the site conforms to an angled axis,cardinal directions will be used to describe the site and the subject property for the purposes of this report herein. 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December S,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 3 33 'p ,a Site map.The subject property, e' r �+� r A� ♦�, 2796 N.Palm Canyon Dr.,is r - outlined in red (courtesy of maps.google.com) The property has vehicular access from N. Palm Canyon Drive,W.Yorba Road and N. Los Felices Road. Low concrete block walls border the parcel along its southern boundary and along the northeast corner of the site. Landscaping is minimal and comprises a small cluster of trees along W.Yorba Road. 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 4 34 Building Exterior :nY West and south elevations,view north.All existing conditions photos were taken by ARG on August 4,2016. The building at 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive is dominated by a 3,040 square feet flat-roofed concrete canopy which is raised approximately 12 feet, 5 inches above finished grade. The canopy shelters a service garage with a two-bay wide overhead metal door that opens onto Yorba Road, mini-mart/convenience store, and four gasoline fueling pumps, which are accessed by four vehicular lanes. The canopy is supported by ten squared steel columns.An "X" configuration is precast in the underside of the roof canopy and extends outward from each column, serving as structural support while allowing the outer edge of the canopy to be only a few inches thick. At the rear(eastern) end of the canopy is a service garage that opens onto W.Yorba Road. The service garage is constructed of painted concrete slump stone units to a height of approximately ten feet. The masonry wall supports clerestory windows set within thin metal frames that extend to the underside of the canopy. The northernmost portion of the service garage extends to the underside of the canopy, contrasting with the rest of the structure which is completely independent from the canopy. The service garage projects out from beneath the canopy along its southern edge. On the north fagade, underneath the canopy, the garage is two bays wide and retains a heavy steel frame door with corrugated metal cladding on its outer face. On the east fagade, where the garage extends out from beneath the canopy, is an additional service bay, also equipped with a metal, single-stall overhead garage door.A concrete slump stone porte cochere is appended to the south fa4ade of the projection and also opens onto the small parking lot. The roof of the port cochere comprises metal panel "planks' supported by walls of concrete slump stone. 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive-Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 5 35 North and west elevations,view southeast. West elevation,detail of canopy,view northeast. 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December S,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 6 w 1- a East elevation,view southwest. Detail of service garage interior,showing slump stone construction and clerestory windows, north elevation,view south. 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 7 37 Alterations to the property include the 1984 addition of mini-mart/convenience store to the west facade of the service garage, fronting N. Palm Canyon Drive;the addition expanded the footprint of the station and obstructed expansive glazing along the facade. The addition is constructed of existing concrete slump stone and new aluminum composite wall panels with fixed metal windows. While the flat-roofed addition remains detached from the canopy, the addition of a metal parapet increases the height of the building along this facade. Other alterations to the property include the replacement of the gasoline fueling pumps and concrete islands in 1991, the boarding up of original troffer lighting recessed within the canopy, the addition of new fluorescent lights to the underside of the canopy, and the addition of a metal storage enclosure to the east facade. These alterations and those noted on a site visit on August 4, 2016 have been confirmed, where possible, with available primary and secondary source documentation. They are more fully discussed in Section lll: Alterations and Chronology of Development.' III. ALTERATIONS AND CHRONOLOGY OF DEVELOPMENT Upon review of historical building permits and original documents provided by the City of Palm Springs' Building Department, Palm Springs City Council staff reports, and digitized issues of the Desert Sun, ARG created the following chronology of development for 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive. This chronology provides a summary of the property's development as well as a summary of all documented alterations. June 1963: Palm Springs City Council approved a Conditional Use Permit (CUP)for a gas station August 1963: A building permit was issued for the construction of a gas station on lots 1 and 15 in the Spaulding's Palm Springs Estates tract, Riverside County.' February 1964: At least three "concrete cylinder compression test reports' were issued during construction of the station's concrete canopy. The project was named "Frazier Shell Oil Station," after the station's 'See Exhibit A for a more complete set of existing conditions photos for the property. 4 Palm Springs Department of Planning Services,City Council Staff Report(City of Palm Springs, 2015),2. s Palm Springs Department of Planning Services,Staff Report,2;Riverside County Office of the Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder,accessed 19 July 2016,http://www.asrclkrec.com/. 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 8 38 landowner M.E. Frazier.' Copies of the reports were addressed to William F.Cody and the Shell Oil Co. July 1964: The station opened under the name "Tramway Shell Service Station' and was lauded in the Desert Sun for its Modern design and amenities.' August 1984: A building permit (B4405) was issued to remodel and add 1,485 square feet of enclosed space for a mini-mart/convenience store. It stated, "add to existing service station to provide for self- service station attendant booth and enlarged sales area."' March 1991: Building permit (820276) was issued to "remove existing gas dispensers and concrete islands. Pour new concrete islands and install new dispensers"9 May 1991: Building permit (B20683) was issued to "install two 14' high area lights for service station," in conjunction with permit B20276." June 1996: The Palm Springs Planning Commission approved a revision to the CUP for a 467 square foot retail space ("mini-mart")." In addition to the aforementioned alterations,ARG noted the following additional alterations to the exterior of the building that are not documented in building permits or other source materials. These alterations were identified by visual inspection of the building conducted by ARG staff on August 4, 2016. In the absence of building permits, ARG was not able to determine when these alterations occurred. • A metal parapet was added to the west fagade, at the roofline of the non- original mini-mart/convenience store and continuing to the original service garage. • A metal storage enclosure was added to the east fagade • An original Shell sign was removed from the northwest corner of the parcel. • Original hardscape and landscape features including a fountain and reflecting pool were removed from the front of the site." 6"New Shell Station has Unique features;'Desert5un,July 3, 1964. 1 Ibid;see Exhibit B for original articles. 8 Department of Planning Services,5taff Report,2;City of Palm Springs Building Permit No. B4405, August 28,1984. 9 City of Palm Springs Building Permit No.B20276,March 22,1991, 10 City of Palm Springs Building Permit No, B20683. 11 Ibid. 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 9 39 IV. HISTORIC CONTEXTS Post World War II Commercial Development in Palm Springs In the years immediately following World War II, Palm Springs evolved into a first- class resort town. The city's growth was marked by an increase in tourism and leisure activities, which had become more accessible to a broader socio-economic class, as well as an ever-increasing permanent residential population. Between 1940 and 1950, the city's permanent population rose from 3,434 to 7,660, and by 1953, it had surpassed 10,000; the same year, the seasonal resident population was estimated at 35,000, with many hailing from the Pacific Northwest.13 Five years later, the city had a total population of 12,443 permanent residents and 50,000 seasonal residents.14 For these reasons, postwar commercial development ultimately had to serve two purposes: the tourism trade for the seasonal population, which included the development of hotels, large resorts, and attractions such as golf courses, as well as daily services for the permanent population, such as banks, stores, and gas stations 15 In Palm Springs, postwar commercial development largely reflected the popular variations in Modern architecture that were emerging throughout Southern California. In Palm Springs, postwar commercial development primarily occurred as infill within the town's original commercial core and along Palm Canyon and Indian Canyon Drives. The growing popular interest in car culture in postwar America made roadside architecture increasingly important. With the widespread use of the automobile and certain derivatives of Modernism, such as Googie, which more blatantly targeted the automobile user through bold designs and signage, the city saw an increase in car-centric architectural styles along its major commercial corridors. This was particularly apparent in the construction of gas stations and restaurants along the northern section of N. Palm Canyon Drive (Highway 111), one of the major arteries used by vehicles to enter and leave Palm Springs. Albert Frey's 1965 Enco Station (now the Palm Springs Visitors' Center, HSPB Case #33 and #37) is an excellent representation of the union between architecture and the automobile that occurred during the postwar period. Located at 2901 N. Palm Canyon Drive, the first major intersection encountered 12 While it is unclear where these features were located on the site due to a lack of historic photographs for the building,the 1964 article"New Shell Station Has Unique Features'from the Desert Sun specifically notes their existence as part of the extensive landscaping plan advocated by the"Desert Beautiful Committee." 13 Culver,The Frontier of Leisure,178. 14 ibid. is Historic Resources Group,Citywide Historic Context Statement,268. 2196 N.Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December S,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 10 40 upon one's entrance into the city's commercial core, the Enco Station features a dramatic hyperbolic paraboloid-shaped steel canopy that has become a symbol of the Palm Springs' Modern architectural vocabulary. —^ Albert Frey's Enco - station/Tramway Gas Station(now the Palm Springs Visitors'Center) (Palm Springs Historical Society) Although it may be the most prominently located automobile service station, the Enco Station was neither the first nor was the only gas station in Palm Springs to take a relatively mundane program —that of a service station —and turn it into a design opportunity. By 1967, a Palm Springs Life article boasted the construction of six "attractive service stations' throughout the city, all constructed within the previous two years.16 Such a hearty increase, the magazine asserted, proved that Palm Springs was "a forerunner in a trend which other communities are expected to follow—the idea of making service stations decorative as well as functional."17 This significant, yet brief, trend of stylizing the generic gas station became one that gas station designers and major oil corporations alike used as a tactic to attract customers. Like Frey's Enco station, 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive is an excellent representation of the postwar gas station and one that is also unique to the City of Palm Springs, having resulted from stringent design standards enforced by the city in the 1960s that eschewed corporate branding and embraced Palm Springs' progressive attitudes. Designed by prominent local 16"Garish Stations?Not in Palm Springs,"Palm Springs Life(September 1967). 17 I bid. 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 11 41 architect William F. Cody, the station reflects nationwide trends in gas station design while embracing a regional Mid-Century Modern aesthetic. The Postwar Gas Station Completed in 1964, 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive is representative of the postwar gas station typology. The gas station became a distinctive architectural type as postwar America became increasingly dependent on the automobile, and as Modern architects made concerted efforts to cater building designs to the automobile user. The gas station became a prominent building typology around the second decade of the 20th century, as large oil companies found that an entire building dedicated to the servicing of cars could be profitable. Previously, small commercial businesses, such as the general store, had contracted with oil refiners to provide gasoline to their customers by installing pumps, invented in 1905, in front of their buildings." By the early 1920s, designs overwhelmingly reflected trends popular in residential architecture, such as Period Revival styles (the "House-type" gas station), which served as a branding strategy and instilled a sense of trust, loyalty and comfort in the customer.19 A {■ Pure Oil"English- Cottage"type ;i station(left,Liebs, Main Street to Miracle Mile)and Texaco"House with Bay"station 1 (right,Jakle,The American Gasoline Station). Like most industries, oil companies were greatly affected by the Great Depression as gas revenues decreased. To meet the challenges of the Great Depression, oil companies sought to increase consumerism by standardizing service station design, under the impression that establishing a recognizable image of a corporate gas station, no matter where one was filling his or her tank, would foster brand loyalty. These prototypes continued to "showcase everything from tires to motor oil, provide better service bays, and above all to present a fresh 16 Chad Randl,Preservation Brief 46;The Preservation and Reuse of Historic Gas Stations (Washington,D.C.:National Park Service,U.S.Department of the Interior,2008), https://www.nps.gov/tps/how-to-preserve/briefs/46-gas-stations.htm,1. 19 Randl,Preservation Brief 46,3;an exception to this model during the 1920s and 1930s was the programmatic station which assumed various shapes to appeal to passing motorists 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 12 42 and modern corporate image to the traveling public."" By the mid-1930s, corporate branding of gas station design was standard practice, and the "white, enameled-metal" box housing a small attendant's office, a large display window, storage space, a restroom, automobile service bays, and decorated with corporate imagery, could be found throughout the United States." Designed in various Art Moderne and International style motifs, this box typology became the industry standard in gas station design prior to World War II. A streamlined Texaco"Box-type" 1 a ti�•w gas station(photo _. ..__. by Walter Dorwin Teague via Getty Images from Sarra ri �• Sedghi,"Time _. Travel:The History of Gas Stations;' Paste,September 15,2015. While World War II led to reduced operations and even the closure of small, independent stations, a dramatic increase in the demand for gasoline in the postwar period caused an economical shift in the industry as "independents started looking for ways to capture a heftier share of the market."22 In 1947, a California station owner named George Urich built what has been widely acclaimed as the country's first self-service gas station—an unprecedented model which was almost immediately followed by independent owners and corporate entities alike 33 While the public initially opposed the idea of pumping their own gas, the model was increasingly supported by the oil industry. Economic advantages offered by the self-service station model included an increased number of pumps to stations (and therefore more money towards pump 20 Chester Liebs,Moin Street to Miracle Mile:American Roadside Architecture(Baltimore:Johns Hopkins University Press,1985),104. 31 Liebs,Main Street to Miracle Mile, 104. 221bid,108. 23 ibid,108. 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 13 43 manufacturers) to increase service, and additional profits to major companies who could sell large quantities of fuel to gasoline dispensaries" In the early postwar years, major oil companies continued the trend of simplified and standardized service station design, and "as a result, the prewar box, with minor modifications, continued to be built.."" However, these companies soon felt the competitive pressure of gas station design undertaken by smaller, independent companies, which had more creative freedom in the designs of their stations. By the mid-1950s, these larger chains found low-cost opportunities to "visually energize the basic box," through the "exaggeration of once purely functional architectural features."26 This typology became known as the "stylized box." The gas station canopy, in particular, reemerged as a popular element of design expression and creativity after the war; however, whereas prewar canopies extended only just past the main service building to the pump, postwar canopies evolved into megastructures that could cover a substantial portion of the property, including the increased number of pumps and pumping lanes at self- service stations. As certain subsets of Modernism evolved specifically in response to the automobile, the canopy was used to grab attention, particularly for those stations that were more non-descript, in addition to providing shelter." 24 Ibid,109. iS Ibid,111. 36 Liebs,Main Street to Miracle Mile,111. 2'Liebs,Main Street to Miracle Mile,110 and Randl,Preservation Brief 46,6. 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5, 2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 14 q4 MWh do STAND_W t"nafs. ,� �L9 Examples of the exaggerated postwar canopy, decorating the simplified"box" (top left:Jakle,The American Gasoline Station;top right: Liebs,Main Street to Miracle Mile; MO B I L 43 AS bottom: photograph by Julius Schulman for architects Smith Q and Williams,1956, J � accessed from the Anaheim Historical - Society blog,the Anaheim Gazette. The era of the "stylized box' was short-lived, and by the 1960s, worsening environmental problems initiated a growing animosity towards anything that contributed to pollution or the destruction of the natural environment, including the automobile, and with it, the gas station. As a result, gas station design reverted to the comforting motifs of the early twentieth century, in timely interpretations of Ranch and Colonial styles." More natural materials were incorporated into these designs, such as cedar shakes and wood siding, which catered to environmentalists but overall proved unfavorable by critics and the local community.21 Pioneering this transition was the Shell Oil Company, which became the first major oil company to introduce the Ranch style gas station as its corporate image;with the exception of gas stations built in Palm Springs,the style became a widely accepted precedent in 1960s gas station design. 39 Liebs,Main Street to Miracle Mile,111. 39 Ibid,111-113. 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive-Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 1s 45 Shell Oil's Corporate Image in the 196os The Shell Oil Company, a subsidiary to one of the largest oil companies in the world, Royal Dutch Shell, is one of several major oil corporations that followed and even set trends in corporate gas station design throughout the twentieth century. Corporations often followed an established design, which guided a station's architectural vocabulary, its site placement, and the amenities it offered, while distinguishing it from its competitors and implanting a recognizable image in the minds of the everyday driver. Royal Dutch Shell was first established in 1907 but did not begin marketing itself in the United States until 1912, under the name American Gasoline Company. Like the design of its logo, which has experienced several transformations since its introduction in 1900, Shell Oil's corporate design for its gas stations has also evolved over time. Following national trends in service station design in the 1920s, Shell gas stations generally �6 featured a simple box and canopy, with some stations exhibiting Art Deco ornamentation 30 By the following decade, the "box' took on a subdued Streamline Moderne design 31 Shell's signage changed 0 to incorporate its evolving logo, i and the company adopted red and F Top:A Shell gas yellow striping.32 In the immediate station in La postwar period, Shell gas stations Grange,CA,c.1920 were Modern in style, featuring (photo accessed stucco cladding and expansive � from the National glazing.33 Shell's signage became I ' Register of Historic more prominent, with the Places Nomination i4f 7 for the property); recognizable sea shell logo W Bottom:An Art mounted on tall pales along the Deco Shell station street or highway. While some (unsourced, Shell stations retained the canopy undated photo structure through the 1950s, from Pinterest.) others adopted towers or pylons 3" 30 W.Dwayne Jones,Historical Studies Report No.2003-03:A Field Guide to Gas Stations In Texas (Austin,TX:Texas Department of Transportation,Environmental Affairs Division,Historical Studies Branch,2003),40. 31 Ibid,57. 32 Ibid. 33 Ibid,75. 34 John A.Jakle,"The American Gasoline Station,1920 to 1970,Journal of American Culture 1.3 (1978):530. 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 16 ' A i r 1 Top:A 1940s Shell gas station in SHr0. 4"E Salinas,CA(1941,Pat Hathaway Archives,accessedrfrom Pixels.com); ..� --Bottom:1950s I $SELL Shell stations(bothunsourced photosfromicx -- Pinterest.com). In 1958, Shell embarked on a redesign of its service stations and became the first oil company to introduce a "Ranch style" design.35 The Ranch station "was unique in that it was the first one designed to blend in with the environment," which was increasingly characterized by large residential subdivisions comprising Ranch style dwellings." The movement towards Ranch style stations also responded to a growing disfavor of "gaudy porcelain and plastic oblongs" (the "stylized box") by the American public.37 Though constructed of metal, the style featured rustic 35 Ibid,91. 36"The History of Shell Oil Company,"Shell,accessed September 6,2016, http://www.shell.us/a bout-us/who-we-are/the-h istory-of-shel I-oi I-company.htm I. 37 Jakel,"The American Gasoline Station,"532. 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive-Historic Resources Report December S,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 17 47 elements such as brick, cedar shakes and low-pitched gable roofs with overhanging eaves to instill a warmer vision that starkly contrasted with the widespread "ice box."38 By 1966, 3,500 of the new stations were in operation, many of which were former boxes that had been revamped 39 Top:An example of Shell's Ranch style p gas station,circa 1967("The Golden Age of Gas „ Stations,"Pleasant _ Family Shopping, March 19,2011). - _ Bottom:a double- --__— gabled,Ranch-style residence that recalls Shell's Ranch-style gas r stations of the 1950s and 1960s; the building was ^' designed by Palmer &Krisel between M f 1957 and 1958 in the Ramon Rise + neighborhood of �.� t" Palm Springs.(Dave Cornoyer,'The Krisel Connection" on October 4, 2016, http://www.kriselc y _ onnection.com). Despite this general overhaul of Shell's stations, some cities opted to eschew the company's new corporate image. 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive is an example of a Shell gas station that was constructed during a period of popularity for the Ranch style station, but instead features a distinctly Modern style conveyed by a refined appearance stripped of unnecessary ornamentation and dominated by an exaggerated canopy. 38 Jakel,"The American Gasoline Station,"532. 391bid. 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 18 48 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive(Tramway Shell Station) In September 1963, Palm Springs' City Council approved the construction of a "modernistic gasoline station" at the southeast corner of N. Palm Canyon Drive and W. yorba Road — a decision that concluded a record length building application first begun in 196140 When completed in 1964, the Shell station was lauded for its Mid-Century Modern design of concrete masonry and glass, and "unique features" such as air conditioning and the newest service equipment 01 Designed by local architect William Cody, the piece de resistance of the station was a 3,040 square foot concrete canopy — noted in a Desert Sun article announcing the station as a "Cody trademark" —which appeared to float above the main station and its pumping lanes." The design also included extensive landscaping "in the style advocated by the Desert Beautiful Committee," and included a decorative pool and fountain.43 Upon its opening, the station was briefly known as the Tramway Shell Service Station, due to its proximity to the recently opened Palm Springs Aerial Tramway (1963). The station occupied a lot owned by M.E. Frazier and was operated by Robert G.Simmons of Palm Springs 49 SECOND BIG DAY ! BOB SIMMONS TRAMWAY SHELL SERVKE � -- BATTERIES& Featuring U.S. ROYAL TIRES ACCESSORIES An advertisement THURSDAY THRU SUNDAL,OCT. IS,16. 17 g 18th for the Tramway Shell Service COME OUT Station in the AND SEE IT! the most beaut'.i .._ Desert Sun, Shen SW on October 22,1964California Di ital rmlij Newspapers 4 N. P.A. Co.," ore- Collection). FWW $WM .,. iuwmmax 1".s 44 ren"nm 10 1x+"a.1WMex1 xor snm m,n vnc,clxm When the gas station debuted in 1964, it was drastically different from the homey, Ranch-style gas introduced by the Shell Oil Company just six years before and unique even to the standard of the "stylized box" perpetuated in corporate gas station design in the postwar period across the United States. Cady had 00"Gas Station Dies from Tie Vote,"Desert Sun,July 12,1963;"Northend Gas Station's Coming," Desert Sun,September 9,1963. 01"Northend Gas Station's Coming;""Presenting...Tramway Shell Service,"Desert Sun,July 3,1964. 42 In"New Shell Station has Unique Features,"the canopy is reported to be 80 x 38 feet,for a total of 3,040 square feet;"Northend Gas Station's Coming." 43"New Shell Station has Unique Features." 4°Ibid. 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 19 49 created an image of the box delicately slid under an incredibly thin concrete slab; no longer was the canopy simply decorating the box, it was defining the box. The design was both true to Cody's own style and fit within the architectural vocabulary created and advocated by the City of Palm Springs, which eschewed corporate branding in architecture. In fact, William Cody had actually designed a Shell gas station for Palm Springs in 1961 in the company's signature Ranch style, to have been located at the intersection of Sunrise Way and Ramon Road but was ultimately never built 45 The conclusion of the unbuilt project (as well as the lengthy approval process for the Tramway Shell Station) was likely the result of the Palm Springs Planning Commission's strict design guidelines, which promoted distinctive designs over common corporate branding and imagery. Noted the City's Director of Building and Planning, Richard J. Smith, in 1967: "The planning commission requires that the service stations be unique and attractively designed —and not of the typical oil company design."46 He continued: Obviously, plans specially drawn by a local architect in each community add more the to the station's pay-off point than the one- plan, mass-produced, metal box 'typical oil-company design.' Just as obviously, this approach helps add something to Palm Springs which Palm Springs believes pleases people from outside strongly enough to bring them back 41 The numerous conditions imposed by the Planning Commission and its Architectural Advisory Committee afforded the Commission substantial control over all elements of service station design, including signage, lighting, landscaping, materials and colors.48 Though it diverged from the Ranch style developed by Shell, the Mid-Century Modern design of the Tramway service station did not entirely renounce the goal set by Shell for its Ranch stations, specifically, of blending into the surrounding environment. In the mid-twentieth century, Palm Springs became a coveted backdrop for Modern architecture; the area's hot climate and expanses of flat desert lent itself to several of the basic tenets of Mid-Century Modernism. Noted the Desert Sun in a 1964 article: "[2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive] was custom- designed to compliment [sic] its surroundings and blend with other attractive features of the desert community," which it characterized as full of "unusual architecture d6cor.1149 05 Original project documents and drawings for the unbuilt station can be found in the William F. Cody Papers archive,located at the Robert E.Kennedy Library at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. 46"Garish Gas Stations?" 4]Ibid. 48 Ibid. 49"New Shell Station has Unique Features." 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report Decemher 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 20 50 Mid-Century Modern Architecture 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive is an excellent example of Mid-Century Modern architecture applied to a commercial property. Mid-Century Modern is a classification often used to describe the various iterations of postwar Modern styles and substyles, which drew reference from early 20`h century architectural movements both in Europe and America. The International Style emerged out of Europe in the 1920s and is characterized by simple geometric forms, smooth wall surfaces, honesty of structure and materials, and the absence of exterior decoration. In America, and Southern California specifically, the style coincided with the work of innovative practitioners, such as Frank Lloyd Wright and Irving Gill, who were working toward the establishment of a new American architecture that eschewed historical precedents. Mid-Century Modernism represents the convergence of these two schools and the adaptation of their ideas and principles to the local climate, innovative new building technologies, and the postwar need for efficiently-built buildings and infrastructure to house a growing population. Although Mid-Century Modernism is a national movement, Southern California houses an unparalleled collection of postwar architecture due to the prosperity of its postwar industry, the temperate climate (which melded perfectly with the Mid-Century Modern tenet of indoor-outdoor living), and the incredible talent represented by young architects graduating from its schools of architecture. In Palm Springs, the style was adapted and honed by a group of architects who have come to be recognized as developing a local Modern tradition, including Dan Palmer and William Krisel, John Porter Clark, William F. Cody, Albert Frey, Donald Wexler,and E. Stewart Williams. The basic characteristics of Mid-Century Modernism generally include a clear expression of structural elements and building materials, the application of standardized or prefabricated, mass-produced elements, flexible and open interior plans, and a blurring of the line between indoor and outdoor spaces. In Palm Springs, practitioners adapted these basic tenets to the extreme climate of the region through the use of poured-in-place concrete, concrete block, and brise soled. "Screen walls' of concrete block units, metal, and even wood, were used to effectively block the sun from entering interiors,while allowing natural breezes to cool interior spaces. Other character-defining features of the style include one-or two-story configurations, horizontal massing, flat or low-pitched roofs with wide overhanging eaves and cantilevered canopies, unadorned wall surfaces, and exterior wall panels or accent materials of wood, glass, plaster, concrete, steel or brick 50 The Mid-Century Modern style became the representative style of postwar architecture in Palm Springs and was used in almost every property type. so Historic Resources Group,City of Palm Springs Citywide Historic Context Statement&Survey Findings(City of Palm Springs:Department of Planning Services,2016),322). 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive-Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 21 51 Modern Innovations in Concrete The goals of the Modern movement to create innovative architecture that was both accessible to the broader public and inexpensive, yet efficient, was met with enthusiastic experimentations in materials and building technologies. In this sense, Modern architecture was marked by "a desire to place architecture and engineering on a shared and rational basis."" Reinforced concrete became a common material of the Modern architecture movement due to its strength, versatility and low-cost; left exposed and unadorned, concrete structures could be architecturally pleasing while conveying honesty of materials and construction. When reinforced thin-shell concrete construction was introduced to the United States in the 1920s and 1930s, its ability to conform to extraordinary geometries and span large spaces while appearing lightweight lent itself both aesthetically and structurally to the Modern movement, and practitioners of Modern architecture became intent on furthering the model. Reinforced thin-shell concrete construction was extensively used during World War II in the construction of thin-shell domes and vaults for industrial and military facilities. By the 1950s, architects had fully adopted the technology due to its seemingly endless sculptural, aesthetic and structural possibilities. It became particularly useful in the construction of the soaring hyperbolic paraboloid roof structures prominent in the Googie and Expressionist styles of the Modern movement. The gas station at 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive is an excellent example of the Mid- Century Modern style, exhibiting such characteristics as unadorned concrete slump stone construction, low, horizontal massing, and clerestory windows that give the roof and canopy a floating appearance; together, these elements convey principles of the style that advocate for honesty of materials and simple, restrained design. The dramatic and incredibly thin precast concrete canopy sheltering the station is also an excellent example of innovations in the thin-shell concrete technology that accompanied the Modern movement and lent itself to its ideals of efficient and accessible architecture. The precast concrete X- configuration on the underside of the canopy was used structurally to enable the overall thinness of the structure, while the squared steel columns freed the concrete slump stone walls of the service garage and original attendant shop from supporting the canopy's additional load. The canopy was a hallmark of its architect, William F. Cody, who was lauded for his refined aesthetic and ability to push the limits of architecture and concrete construction. sr Thomas E.Boothby and Charlene K.Roise,"Soaring or Crashing?—The Challenges of Preserving Thin-Shell Concrete Structures,"Historic Preservation Education foundation,accessed September 28,2016,http://hpef.us/publications/preserving-the-recent-oast-publications/soaring-or-crashing. 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 22 52 William F. Cody The gas station at 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive was designed by William F. Cody, who is known for the wide variety and breadth of architectural contributions he made to the City of Palm Springs between 1942 and 1972. Cody obtained a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from the University of Southern California in 1942, training under renowned Modern architect Cliff May. During his time spent with May, Cody developed an appreciation for functional and efficient design. His relationship with Palm Springs began in 1946 when he began working as staff architect for the Desert Inn; in 1947, he began his own firm, William F. Cody & Associates and designed the Del Marcos Hotel. Also in 1947, Cody designed his own home, which encapsulated the qualities he valued most in architecture: openness,variation in spaces, simplicity and elegance. Cody designed a substantial and impressive portfolio of buildings in the City of Palm Springs during his firm's tenure, including resorts and hotels, office buildings, residences, a church, and a library center. His conversion of the 1935 Thunderbird Dude Ranch into the Thunderbird Country Club in Rancho Mirage also initiated a chain of subsequent design commissions for at least ten more country clubs." His largest commission was the design of the Palm Springs Spa Hotel and Bath House, commissioned by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians on the site of the area's original hot springs.13 Cody became known for his painstaking attention to detail and technical expertise; in describing his distinct style, Palm Springs Life colorfully noted: He didn't just slap the slender modern rectangle down in the desert —he put it on a diet and shaved it down to nothingness. He extended rooflines out 12 feet to create shade as well as outdoor living spaces. He flowed water through channels and into reflecting pools. He placed swimming pools right up against living areas. Cody's designs hid doorframes within walls, elongated steel roof spans, and reduced steel beams to slivers so that absolutely nothing interfered with the views of the outdoors.s" The exaggerated concrete canopy(or roof sheltering a glass"box") became one of Cody's trademark designs, and the motif can be seen in many of his works, including the Perlberg Residence (1952), the El Dorado Country Club (1957), the Racquet Club Garden Villas (1959), the Goldberg Residence (1964), and the Palm Springs Glass House (1967). The barrel-vaulted entrance canopy of the Palm 5¢"William F.Cody,"Palm Springs Modern Committee,accessed August g,2016, http://psmodcom.orgjindex.php/will iam-f-cody. 53 Greg Niemann,Palm Springs Legends:Creation of a Desert Oasis(San Diego:Sunbelt Publications, Inc.,2006),174;Cody collaborated with Donald Wexler,Richard Harrison and Philip Koenig on the design of the hotel and bath house 56 Adele Cygelman,"Modern Sophisticate,"Palm Springs Life,December 31,2014, http://www pal mspringsl ife.com/modern-sophisticate/- 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5, 2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 23 53 Springs Spa Hotel (1959-1963) also reflects the range of Cody's experiments with thin-shell concrete technology. Much like in the design of the gas station at 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive, these examples convey Cody's affinity for the canopy-box relationship, which lent itself well to the "stylized box' gas station typology of the postwar period. However, Cody's design of the gas station was one of the more extravagant variations of the motif,as seen by the apparent detachment of the box from the canopy.While the box is still physically connected to the canopy above the service garage, Cody's use of clerestory windows further played to the image that the canopy was floating above the station. While Cody had several residential commissions in which he integrated this motif,the subject property is the only known gas station designed by Cody in Palm Springs, and as such, is one of the few properties to represent Cody's most celebrated stylistic ideals on a small,commercial scale. Though Cody is perhaps best known for his work in Palm Springs, he also produced a number of projects in other cities including Phoenix, San Diego, Palo Alta and Havana, Cuba. Cady was inducted into the Fellowship of the American Institute of Architects in 1965 ss The El Dorado Country Club,1957 (top left,photo by Julius Shulman) A and the Palm Springs Glass _ House,1967 b (bottom left,photo '.. by Don Chavkin) . ..- both accessed from Viiiiiiia "William F.Cody," Palm Springs Modern Committee;the entrance canopy at the Palm Springs Spa Hotel,1959 (right,Getty _ -_ -,-_-- Research Institute, accessed from Palm Springs Life). ss ss Historic Resources Group,City of Palm Springs Citywide Historic Context Statement,Appendix C. Biography of Local Practitioners. 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive-Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 24 54 V. REGULATIONS AND CRITERIA FOR EVALUATION City of Palm Springs Historic Site The City of Palm Springs administers a local designation program in which individual properties and concentrations of properties can be designated as Historic Sites and Historic Districts, respectively. The designation of Historic Sites and Districts is governed by Title 8, Chapter 8.05, Article III (Procedure for Designation of Historic Sites or Districts) of the Palm Springs Municipal Code, which establishes and authorizes a seven-member Palm Springs Historic Site Preservation Board (HSPB) to identify, nominate and recommend potential historic sites or districts to the City Council. To facilitate this process, the Ordinance establishes requirements that a property must meet in order to qualify for designation as a historic site." Per the Municipal Code, a Historic Site is defined as "a building; a structure, including but not limited to archways, tiled areas and similar elements; an archaeological excavation or object that is unique or significant because of its location, design, setting, materials, workmanship or aesthetic effect."57 A property may be designated a Historic Site if it satisfies one or more of the following seven evaluative criteria: 1) It is associated with events that have made a meaningful contribution to the nation, state or community; or 2) It is associated with lives of persons who made meaningful contributions to national,state or local history; or 3) It reflects or exemplifies a particular period of the national, state or local history;or 4) It embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction;or 5) It represents the work of a master builder, designer, artist, or architect whose individual genius influenced his age; or that possesses high artistic value; or 56The City of Palm Springs is also a designated Certified Local Government(CLG),which is a preservation partnership between the National Park Service(NIPS),the State Historic Preservation Offices(SHPOs)and local communities with a goal to create local commitments to historic preservation. 57 City of Palm Springs Municipal Code,8.05.020—Historic Preservation,General Provisions, Definitions. 7796 N. Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 25 55 6) It represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction; or 7) It has yielded or may be likely to yield information important to national, state or local history or prehistory.58 In order for a property to qualify as City of Palm Springs Historic Site, it must not only be significant under one or more criteria but also retain integrity, which the National Park Service defines as "the ability of a property to convey its significance."59 While the City of Palm Springs Historic Sites Ordinance does not explicitly include language about integrity, it does state that a historic site's uniqueness and significance can be determined through its location, design, setting, materials, workmanship or aesthetic effect.60 In nominating historic sites to the local register, the City of Palm Springs follows guidelines on integrity established by the National Park Service for the National Register of Historic Places.The National Register has identified seven aspects of integrity as follows: 1) Location: the place where the historic property was constructed or the place where the historic event occurred. 2) Design: the combination of elements that create the form, plan, space, structure, and style of a property. 3) Setting:the physical environment of a historic property. 4) Materials:the physical elements that were combined or deposited during a particular period of time and in a particular pattern or configuration to form a historic property. 5) Workmanship: the physical evidence of the crafts of a particular culture or people during any given period in history or prehistory. 6) Feeling: a property's expression of the aesthetic or historic sense of a particular period of time. 7) Association: the direct link between an important historic event or person and a historic property. To convey historic integrity, a property will possess several, if not most, of these aspects.61 sa Ibid. "National Park Service,Notional Register Bulletin#15:How to Apply the Notion of Register Criteria For Evaluation(Washington D.C.:U.S.Department of Interior,1990),44. 60 City of Palm Springs Municipal Code,8.05.020, 61 National Park Service,Notional Register Bulletin#15,44. 2796 N.Palm Canyon Dnve—Historic Resources Report December5, 2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 26 56 Should a property satisfy one or more of the aforementioned criteria and retain integrity, it is categorized into one of the following classifications by the Palm Springs City Council: Class 1.Structure/site qualified for city designation; may be qualified at the federal, state and/or county level... (Intended for use when the structure or site still exists as it did during the historical period or is restorable). Class 2. Site qualified for city designation; may be qualified at the federal, state and/or county level... (Intended for use when the site is not occupied by a modern structure or use which is different than that of the historical period or if structure is unusable, nonconforming, unrestorable, or the like). Class 3. Structure/site was constructed before 1969, or a year to be determined by the City Council, or construction date cannot be confirmed. Eligible for a six-month stay of demolition." Class 1 Historic Site designation serves as the highest level of local designation in Palm Springs, ensuring that a "structure/site may not be modified nor objects removed without approval of the city council," while it's usage may also be regulated or limited to "the extent that it may impair the integrity of the site."63 VI. EVALUATION OF SIGNIFICANCE Previous Surveys and Designations The property at 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive was previously identified and evaluated for its historical significance in the City of Palm Springs Historic Resources Survey Summary Report, completed by ARG in 2004. The survey, which identified and documented 200 properties, found that 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive was potentially significant for designation on the City of Palm Springs' Official Register of Historic Sites and Districts for its architectural merit and assigned the property a status code of 5S3, which conveys that the resource appears to be individually eligible for local listing or designation through survey evaluation. The preservation planning firm Historic Resources Group (HRG) is currently concluding an updated and more intensive historic resources survey of the City of Palm Springs; the survey confirmed previous findings of potentially eligibility for local listing. The property has not been formally designated at the local, state or federal levels. 63 City of Palm Springs Municipal Code,8.05.125—created by Council. 63 ibid. 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 27 57 In 2015, the Palm Springs HSPB provided recommendations in response to a proposed project at the subject property, comprising an addition to the non- original mini-mart/convenience store. Recommendations included designation of the site as a Palm Springs Class 1 Historic Site and the denial of the proposed project. A subsequent appeal to the decision of the Planning Commission by the Palm Springs Modern Committee was also rejected by the City Council. City of Palm Springs Historic Site Upon evaluation of 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive against City of Palm Springs Historic Site eligibility criteria, ARG finds that the property appears eligible for listing as a Palm Springs Class 1 Historic Site, as follows: Criterion 1: It is associated with events that have made a meaningful contribution to the nation,state or community. The property at 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive is not associated with a singular event that has made a meaningful contribution to the nation, state or community. Research did not indicate that any significant events occurred at the subject property, nor did it reveal that construction of the property occurred as a result of any one event; rather, the building was constructed in response to a commercial need for service stations resulting from transportation trends of the postwar period. Therefore, ARG does not find the subject property eligible as a Class 1 Historic Site under city of Palm Springs Criterion 1. Criterion 2: It is associated with lives of persons who made meaningful contributions to national, state or local history. The subject property does not appear to be associated with persons who have made meaningful contributions to national, state or local history. Research indicates that the original owner of the land occupied by the station, M.E. Frazier, was active in community and civic life in Palm Springs, holding such positions as Vice Chairman of Authority, Chairman of the Economic Development Panel, and Tramway Authority member. While Frazier may have been a part of major events within the city, he does not appear to have made any meaningful contributions himself. The station's owner and the lessee of Frazier's land, Shell Oil Co., owned thousands of service stations across the country, and prominent individuals within the company did not have a notable relationship with the subject property itself. Research also did not reveal that the operator of the station, Robert G. Simmons, was important to the history of Palm Springs. Finally, as a gas station, the building has been used by myriad people throughout its existence. While its consumers may or may not have been important to the history of Palm Springs, the subject property itself is not associated with any singular person.Therefore, it does not appear eligible as a Class 1 Historic Site under City of Palm Springs Criterion 2. 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 28 58 Criterion 3: It reflects or exemplifies a particular period of the notional, state or local history. The subject property is associated with commercial development in Palm Springs in the postwar period, specifically, the overall expansion of automobile-related resources resulting from a rise in the popularity, accessibility, and mobility of the automobile. Like most of postwar America, the City of Palm Springs experienced a growing popular interest in car culture that made the development of auto- centric architecture increasingly important. As a result, a building's architecture, site placement and amenities increasingly targeted the automobile user. Located at the intersection of N. Palm Canyon Drive (CA State Route 111) and W. Yorba Rd., the subject property is one of the first auto-related services present upon entry into the city via one of its primary thoroughfares; its distinct siting along N. Palm Canyon Drive was intended to grab the attention of automobile users as they entered or left the city. Completed in 1964, the gas station preceded Albert Frey's Enco Station (1965), constructed one block north of 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive, which also made the subject property the nearest service station to the city's Aerial Tramway (1963), another convenience for those travelling to and from Palm Springs. In the years following the station's construction, six more gas stations were constructed in Palm Springs, reflecting the growing need for auto-related services within the city and the growth of its postwar commercial character as it related to the automobile; the subject property is one of the few stations remaining from this period. As such, the subject property is a product of postwar transportation trends and their effect on auto-related commercial development within the community. For these reasons, ARG finds the property at 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive eligible as a Class 1 Historic Site under City of Palm Springs Criterion 3. Criterion 4: It embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction. The subject property embodies the Mid-Century Modern style through the following distinctive characteristics: simplified concrete slump stone walls housing a service garage, minimal ornamentation, a distinct connection to the site and an expansive, concrete canopy, which exemplifies an innovative method of construction used by practitioners of the style. The subject property is also an excellent example of the thin-shell concrete method of construction, which became a popular technology during the Modern movement due to its versatility, strength and inexpensive cost.The precast X-configuration seen on the underside of the canopy supported the structure's incredible thinness.. Finally, the subject property exhibits elements of the "stylized box' property type associated with postwar gas station design and construction, characterized by an oversized canopy that extends over the "box' and its gas pumps. The "box' itself is non- descript, reflecting the popular strategy of incorporating design trends through 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5, 2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 29 59 the addition of stylized or dramatized elements. Therefore, the subject property appears eligible as a Class 1 Historic Site under City of Palm Springs Criterion 4. Criterion 5: It represents the work of a master builder, designer artist or architect whose individual genius influenced his age;or it possesses high artistic value. The subject property was designed by renowned local architect William F. Cody, who contributed a diverse and influential collection of Mid-Century Modern designs to the City of Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley between 1942 and 1972. Many of Cody's works completed during this time, which included resorts and hotels, country clubs, office buildings, residences, a church, and a library center, have been celebrated for their innovative design. The subject property is the only gas station designed by Cody to be built in Palm Springs (plans for another gas station at the intersection of Sunrise Way and Ramon Road never materialized). Its design reflects Cody's unique aesthetic, specifically, his motif of the small glass box slid under the dominant concrete canopy;the subject property appears as an exaggerated version of this motif, where the canopy is detached from the box, appearing to float above it. Because the subject property was designed by Cody, a master architect within the City of Palm Springs, and exemplifies Cody's distinct aesthetic in the design of a small commercial property (of which there are no other known examples), ARG finds the subject property eligible as a Class 1 Historic Site under City of Palm Springs Criterion 5. Criterion 6: It represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction. As the subject property is not part of a district, it does not represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction. Therefore, ARG concludes the property is not eligible as a Class 1 Historic Site under City of Palm Springs Criterion 6. Criterion 7: It has yielded or may be likely to yield information important to national,state or local history or prehistory. The construction of 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive in 1964 involved the grading of the site in preparation for its development. Since the property has previously been graded and possesses no known archaeological resources, it is not likely to yield information important in history or prehistory, though it should be noted that an archaeological assessment was not conducted as part of this study. As such, it appears that the subject property is not eligible as a Class 1 Historic Site under City of Palm Springs Criterion 7. VII. INTEGRITY ANALYSIS 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 30 60 The National Register and California Register have specific language regarding integrity. Both require that a resource retain sufficient integrity to convey its significance. In accordance with the guidelines established by the National Park Service, integrity is evaluated with regard to the retention of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship,feeling, and association. The City of Palm Springs' Historic Preservation Ordinance does not explicitly include language regarding integrity, though it specifies location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, and aesthetic effect as qualities that convey the significance and uniqueness of a historic site. However, in nominating historic sites to the register, the City of Palm Springs appears to follow National Register guidelines on integrity. Following is an evaluation of these aspects at 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive: Location The place where the historic property was constructed or the place where the historic event occurred. 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive has not been moved from its original location. Therefore, it retains its integrity of location. Design The combination of elements that create the form, plan, space, structure, and style of a property. 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive has experienced a few alterations which have somewhat altered its original form and plan. In 1984, a small, one-story mini- mart/convenience store was appended to the west (primary) fagade of the existing service garage located at the eastern end of the canopy. While independent of the original canopy,the addition abuts the original service carport and projects south from beneath the canopy, effectively blocking the view of the original service garage from N. Palm Canyon Drive and W. Yorba Road and altering the building's original plan. The west faSade, which originally featured extensive glazing, has been obstructed by the addition. The height of the addition also compromises the floating effect of the canopy over the original service garage, and the overall motif of the "box' slid underneath the canopy. Some original features such as the original Shell signage, a decorative pool and a fountain have also been removed. Despite these modifications, the most distinctive design feature of the building — its concrete canopy — remains unaltered. Reversible alterations to the station such as the addition of a metal parapet have weakened the visual separation of the canopy from the "box", but remain physically detached from the canopy itself. Thus, although the subject property's integrity of design has been somewhat compromised, it is not lost altogether. 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December5, 2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 31 61 Setting The physical environment of a historic property. The subject property was constructed in a small neighborhood of residential tracts subdivided prior to the 1950s. Today, the area where the subject property is located is largely composed of one- and two-story single-family dwellings, with expanses of undeveloped parcels intermixed to the north and south along N. Palm Canyon Drive, which retains a commercial character; a large hotel resort comprising several two-story buildings is also present to the north of the property. Though subdivided prior to the construction of the subject property, many of the surrounding streets were not substantially developed until the 1990s, and the surrounding neighborhoods still retain a handful of remaining vacant parcels. The scale and character of the immediate neighborhoods continues to reflect the area's low, desert landscape. As such, the subject property retains integrity of setting. Materials The physical elements that were combined or deposited during a particular period of time and in a particular pattern or configuration to form a historic property. The subject property retains most of its original materials including the concrete canopy and squared columns which delineate its exterior spaces; the concrete pumping islands and the original pumps themselves were replaced in 1991, The concrete slump stone walls and metal clerestory windows which comprise the property's original service garage have also been retained. The addition of a mini- mart/convenience store, composed of prefabricated aluminum composite panels and metal parapet, resulted in the removal of glazing on the building's west facade, but retained original slump stone walls. For these reasons, 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive's integrity of materials remains largely intact. Workmanship The physical evidence of the crafts of a particular culture or people during any given period in history or prehistory... [expressed through] both technological practices and aesthetic principles. The subject property's original workmanship is most prominently conveyed through the construction of its large thin-shell concrete canopy; the subtle, precast pattern on the underside of the canopy and its incredibly thin structure reflect technological innovations in concrete construction during the mid- twentieth century. Though an addition has been made to the west facade of the original service garage, beneath the canopy, the property's workmanship remains in the restrained detailing of its concrete slump stone walls and the use of the clerestory windows to "support" the canopy. Thus, the subject property also retains integrity of workmanship. Feeling 2796 N. Palrn Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 32 62 A property's expression of the aesthetic or historic sense of a particular period of time. The expansive canopy and simplified service garage comprising the original design of 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive exemplified the "stylized box" property type of gas station design in the postwar period. The elements also embodied a motif commonly used by architect William Cody, that of the "box' slid under a concrete canopy, who expanded on the concept by visually detaching the box from the canopy; the resulting effect was that of an incredibly thin concrete canopy hovering over a small, non-descript box. The feeling originally instilled by this image, as evidenced in historic newspaper articles, was one of seemingly endless possibilities in architecture in the postwar period, manifested in the canopy's lightweight, technologically advanced construction, and encouraged by the increasing mobility of the automobile. While the addition of a mini- mart/convenience store and a metal parapet in 1984 obstructed much of the space between the original garage and the canopy, weakening this original feeling of technological innovation,the most important features expressing the feeling of the building — the exaggerated canopy and simplified box — have been retained and continue to convey the period of time during which the subject property was constructed. Furthermore, the building's setting, materials and overall characteristics remain intact. Therefore, the subject property retains integrity of feeling. Association The direct link between an important historic event or person and a historic property type. The subject property has been in continuous use as a gas station, associated with postwar transportation trends in the City of Palm Springs. The property also largely retains its original appearance, which exhibits characteristics of Mid- Century Modern architecture and conveys the architectural techniques used by master architect William F. Cody. Therefore, the property's integrity of association remains intact. Summary of Integrity In summary,to be eligible for listing, a resource must retain enough of its historic character or appearance to be recognizable as a historical resource and to convey the reasons for its significance. 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive retains most aspects of its integrity — location, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association. Its integrity of design has been somewhat compromised due primarily to the addition of the mini-mart/convenience store, which was appended to the west facade of the original service station. Despite this alteration, the property is still able to convey its overall design, technological 2796 N.PaI rn Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5, 2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 33 63 innovations, and historical period. Therefore, the 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive retains sufficient integrity to convey its significance. VIII. CONCLUSION Documentary research, site analysis, the development of historic contexts, and an evaluation against local eligibility criteria indicate that the property at 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive meets City of Palm Springs Historic Site eligibility criteria 3, 4 and 5. The subject property also retains sufficient integrity to convey its significance. Therefore, 2796 N Palm Canyon Drive appears eligible for listing as a Class 1 Historic Site in the City of Palm Springs' Official Register of Historic Sites and Districts. 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive-Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 34 64 IX. BIBLIOGRAPHY Books, Periodicals, and Other Published Materials: Boothby, Thomas E. and Raise, Charlene K. "Soaring or Crashing? — The Challenges of Preserving Thin-Shell Concrete Structures." Historic Preservation Education Foundation. Accessed September 28, 2016, http://hi)ef.us/publications/preserving-the-recent-past-publications/soaring-or- crashing. Cassinello, P. "Shells — Innovation system design by Idelfonso Sanchez (1898- 1980). In Structures and Architecture:New Concepts,Applications and Challenges, edited by Paulo J. da Sousa Cruz. Boca Rotan, FL: CRC Press, 2013. City of Palm Springs Municipal Code, 8.05.020 — Historic Preservation, General Provisions, Definitions. Culver, Lawrence. The Frontier of Leisure: Southern California and the Shaping of Modern America. New York: Oxford University Press, 2010. Cygelman, Adele. "Modern Sophisticate." Palm Springs Life, December 31, 2014. http;//www.palmspringslife.com/modern-sophisticate/. "Garish Gas Stations? Not in Palm Springs," Palm Springs Life (September 1967). "Gas Station Dies from Tie Vote." Desert Sun. July 12, 1963. Historic Resources Group. City of Palm Springs Citywide Historic Context Statement & Survey Findings. City of Palm Springs: Department of Planning Services, 2016. Jakle,John A. "The American Gasoline Station, 1920 to 1970."Journal of American Culture 1.3 (1978): 520-542. Jones, W. Dwayne. Historical Studies Report No. 2003-03: A Field Guide to Gas Stations in Texas. Austin, TX: Texas Department of Transportation, Environmental Affairs Division, Historical Studies Branch, 2003. 'Liebs, Chester. Main Street to Miracle Mile: American Roadside Architecture. Baltimore:Johns Hopkins University Press, 1985. Randl, Chad. Preservation Brief 46: The Preservation and Reuse of Historic Gas Stations.Washington, D.C.: National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, 2008. https://www.nps.gov/tps/how-to-preserve/briefs/46-gas-stations.htm. 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive—IIistoric Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 35 65 "New Shell Station has Unique Features."Desert Sun.July 3, 1964. Niemann, Greg. Palm Springs Legends: Creation of a Desert Oasis. San Diego: Sunbelt Publications, Inc., 2006. "Northend Gas Station's Coming." Desert Sun. September 9, 1963. "Presenting...Tramway Shell Service."Desert Sun.July 3, 1964. U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service. National Register Bulletin H15, How to Apply the National Register Criteria for Evaluation. Washington D.C., U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, 1990, rev, 1997. Other Sources: 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive. Permit File. City of Palm Springs, Department of Building&Safety. Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. "Cultural History" Accessed 19 July 2016. http://www.aguacaliente.org/content/Historv%20&%2OCulture/. City of Palm Springs, CA. "History." Accessed 19 July 2016. http://www.paimspringsca.gov/city-services/history. Palm Springs Department of Planning Services. City Council Staff Report. City of Palm Springs, 2015. Palm Springs Department of Planning Services. Staff Report, 2. Riverside County Office of the Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder. Accessed 19 July 2016. http://www.asrclkrec.com . Riverside County Office of the Assessor. Accessed 19 July 2016. http://www.asrclkrec.COM/Assessor.aspx. "NETR Online Historic Aerials." Historic Aerials. NETR Online, 1953, 1954, and 1963. Accessed 10 February 2016. http://www.historicaerials.com. Palm Springs Modern Committee. "William F. Cody." Accessed August 8, 2016. http://Psmodcom.org/index.php/william-f-cody. Shell. "The History of Shell Oil Company." Accessed September 6, 2016, http://www.she I l.Us/a bout-u s/who-we-are/the-history-of-shel I-ci I- company.html. 2796 N. Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 36 P The William F. Cody Papers at Robert E. Kennedy Library, California Polytechnic State University,San Luis Obispo. 2796 N.Palm Canyon Drive—Historic Resources Report December 5,2016 ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP 37 67 CITY OF PALM SPRINGS PUBLIC NOTIFICATION `oY p e Date: January 4, 2017 Subject: Cody Gas Station HSPB 99 AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLICATION I, Kathleen D. Hart, MMC, Chief Deputy City Clerk, of the City of Palm Springs, California, do hereby certify that a copy of the attached Notice of Public Hearing was published in the Desert Sun on December 24, 2016. 1I/d1e`clare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. N.k- az Kathleen D. Hart, MMC Interim City Clerk AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING I, Kathleen D. Hart, MMC, Chief Deputy City Clerk, of the City of Palm Springs, California, do hereby certify that a copy of the attached Notice of Public Hearing was posted at City Hall, 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Drive, on the exterior legal notice posting board, and in the Office of the City Clerk on December 22, 2016. I1rd�eclare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. &" W Kathleen D. Hart, MMC Interim City Clerk AFFIDAVIT OF MAILING I, Kathleen D. Hart, MMC, Chief Deputy City Clerk, of the City of Palm Springs, California, do hereby certify that a copy of the attached Notice of Public Hearing was mailed to each and every person on the attached list on December 22, 2016, in a sealed envelope, with postage prepaid, and depositing same in the U.S. Mail at Palm Springs, California. (99 notices) I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. 1 Kathleen D. Hart, MMC Interim City Clerk 68 The Desert Sun 750 N Gene Autry Trail Certificate of Publication Palm Springs, CA 92262 760-778-4578/Fax 760-778-4731 R E C E I V E D :,ITY OF PALM SPkjl-, State Of California ss: 2917 JAN -4 PM 7: 59 County of Riverside JAMES THOhij(;;,: Advertiser: CITY OF PALM SPRINGSILEGALS CITY CLERK PO BOX 2743 PALM SPRINGS CA 92263 Order# 0001815537 1 am over the age of 18 years old, a citizen of the United States and not a party to,or have interest in this matter. I hereby certify that the attached advertisement appeared in said newspaper(set in type not smaller than non pariel) in each and entire issue of said r �ra(IrJlra:rFfJrrs� newspaper and not in any supplement thereof No 1852: NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING on the followingdates,to wit: CRY COUNCIL CITY OF PALM SPRINGS,CALIFORNIA PROPOSED DESIGNATION OF 2796 NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE "THE TRAM WAY SHELL GAS STATION"AS A CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE HSPB 99 Newspaper: The Desert Sun NOTICE 15 HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Palm Springs, California,will hold a Public Hearing at its meeting of January 4,2017. The City Council meeting begins at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chamber at City Hall, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way,Palm Springs. 12/24/2016 The purpose of the hearing is to consider a recommendation by the Historic Site Preservation Board to designate 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive'The Bob Sim- mons Tram Way Shell Gas Station",a Class 1 Historic Site. vk"DrwanwM VIHay MR fQf/ i —_I I acknowledge that I am a principal clerk of the printer of The Desert Sun, printed and s ; published weekly in the City of Palm Springs, / , I County of Riverside, State of California. The ' G� Desert Sun was adjudicated a Newspaper of _ .. general circulation on March 24, 1988 by the Superior Court of the County of Riverside, State of California Case No. 191236. �cnrorvru�aewKas .1f Jr99,!kM rroMCmrm awe„_._,. ..11. ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION:The proposed historic site designation is declare under penalty of perjury that the not sublI'ect to the California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA)pursuant to Sec- tions 15060(c)(2)'(the activity will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseea- foregoing is true and correct. Executed on ble indirect physical change In the environment)and 15060(c)(3)(the activity is not a project as defined in Section 15378) of the CEQA Guidelines, California this 24th day EMBER, 2016 in Palm Code of I Regulations,Title 14,Chapter 3,because it has no potential for result- ing Code Changes to the environment,directly or as no pot Springs, Call rnla. RLNIEW OF PROJECT INFORMATION: The staff report and other supporting documents regarding this project are available for public review at City Hall be- tween the hours of S-00 a.m.and 6:00 p.m.,Monday through Thursday. Please contact the Office of the City Clerk,at(760)323-82( if you would like to%hed- ule an appointment to review these documents. COMMENT ON THIS APPLICATION: Resporse to this notice may be made verbal- ly at the Public Hearing and/or in writing before the hearing.Written comments may be made to the City Council by email at cityclerk*palmsprings-ca.gov, or Ietter(for mail or hand delivery)to: Kathleen D.Hart,MMC,Interim City Clerk -- --- 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs,CA 92262 Any challenge of the proposed project in court may be limited to raising only those issues raised at the Public Hearing described in this Notice or in written correspondence delivered to the City Clerk at,or prior to,the City Council hear- ing (Government Code Section 65 y 91b1[2j). An opportunity will be given at IN hearing for all interested persons to be heard. Questions regarding this case may be directed to Ken Lyon,RA,Associate Planner,at(760)323-8245. S. ..It.ayucla con esta carta, por favor Ilame a la Ciudad de Palm Springs-y puede hablar con Felipe Primera telefono(760)323-8253 z 8742. Kathleen D.Hart,MIMIC Interim City Clerk Published:12/24/2016 = kEtGHBOREPOO�SPONSOR REPS C2�e FISP899 MR PETE MORUZZI 'M0DGOM Oor tias Sf ?n AND PHNIpr£OMeafing HISTORIOStT REP�a W4 P. SPRINGS MODERN COMMITTEE Ja [Y� P.O.O. B BOX OX 4738 PALM SPRINGS, CA 92263-4738 CITY OF PALM SPRINGS PLANNING SERVICES DEPARTMENT VER( t iMON`Nr�710E ��' "--- ATTN SECRETARY/HSPB 99 PO BOX 2743 PALM SPRINGS, CA 92263-2743 MRS PATRICIA GARCIA-PLOTKIN, MS MARGARET PARK, DIRECTOR DIRECTOR AGUA CALIENTE BAND OFCAHUitik AGUA CALIENTE BAND OF CAHUILLA TRIBAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE INDIAKS"a-o-t�-D�=U INDIANS AGUA CALIENTE BAND OF CAHUILLA PLANNING&DEVELOPMENT DEPT, INDIANS 5401 DINAH SHORE DRIVE 5401 DINAH SHORE DRIVE PALM SPRINGS, CA 92264 PALM SPRINGS, CA 92264 MR FRANK TYSEN MR JOSEPH ONTIVEROS T*ro SOBOBA BAND OF LUISENO INDIANS 84 W-D CASA CODY INN CULTURAL RESOURCES MANAGER 175 S. CAHUILLA ROAD P.O. BOX 487 PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262 SAN JACINTO, CA 92581 MR RAYMOND HUAUTE MR MICHAEL MIRELEZ MR DOUG TODD WELMAS CULTURAL RESOURCE SPECIALIST CULTURAL RESOURCE COORDINATOR TRIBAL CHAIRMAN MORONGO BAND OF MISSION INDIANS TORRES MARTINEZ DESERT CAHUILLA CABAZON BAND OF MISSION INDIANS 12700 PUMARRA ROAD INDIANS BANNING, CA 92220 P.O. BOX 84-245 INDIO SPRINGS PARKWAY THERMAL,, C CA 92274 INDIO, CA 92203 A MS JACQUELYN BARNUM ENVIRONMENTAL DIRECTOR CABAZON BAND OF MISSION INDIANS 84-245 INDIO SPRINGS PARKWAYINDIO, CA 92203 on YYO �L SPQ�r#S ss SOBHY YOUSEF 2796 N PALM CANYON DRIVE -- - -- -" PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262 1-4,6 77 GERBER, MICHELE DERESA LEDUC,JON ANTHONY 504-082-010 504-082-009 504-082-008 590 W YORBA RD 269 N LURING DR 587 W SANTA CATALINA RD PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-1968 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-6524 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-1939 SERRANO,JOSE L SHAMOON, SOSSJ NICHOLAS,NINA 504-041-032 504-041-031 504-041-034 1000 PALM AVE APT 4 1423 W KENNETH RD 4855 VALLEY VIEW DR WEST HOLLYWOOD CA 90069-4042 GLENDALE CA 91201-1421 PALM DESERT CA 92260- THOMAS,NORMAN L BBERN RD KFN NP'rn G MACPHEE, STEVEN AQUILAS 504-041-033 504 06.__ 01 006 504-061-005 30535 AVENIDA BUENA SUERTE 3O91 M A r A o H rn B vrD STE 140 3643 MCGILL ST VANCOUVER BC TEMECULA CA 92591-1701 N EWPOUT BEACH CA 92660 3056 CANA CANA - YAIST,JOHN P YOUSEF,GERGIS Y DIV ❑ERIN A RD GRP 504-061-004 504-091-001 504-06-1--003 2792 N J UNIPERO AVE 3675 TORITO CIR 3991 M A C A n TH ro Bi V D STE 350 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-1830 PALM SPRINGS CA 92264-3555 -W PORT BF A C14 CA 92660 inn 1 MCMAHON,V DIANE FLORES,JUAN CARLOS DIAZ STARKP1A:',JO LI=M 504-061-002 504-061-001 504 06041q 2786 N JUN[PERO AVE 2788 N JUNIPERO AVE 2794 Nr rUN IPERO AVE PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-1830 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-1830 PALM c��QRP;GggA mho ) GOODALE, ELIZABETH DEITCH, RICHARD S SALAM, WASFI 504-060-016 504-060-015 504-060-014 2530 REDROCK DR 70975 IRONWOOD DR 3405 MONT BLANC TER CORONA CA 92882.8604 RANCHO MIRAGE CA 92270-1962 BAKERSFIELD CA 93306-7561 SALAMA,WASFI MOUGHALIAN,ALBERT EGGLESTON IB, WILLIAM 504-060-013 504-060-012 504-060-011 3405 MONT BLANC TER 733 W GLENOAKS BLVD 2411 29TH ST BAKERSFIELD CA 93306-7561 GLENDALE CA 91202-2196 SANTA MONICA CA 90405-2057 FOURNIER, YVES GRIGORIAN, SUREN SZMANDA,ERIC 504-041-035 504-041-036 504-082-011 3747 VISTA CAMPANA S UNIT 60 2764 DELEVAN DR 3940 DEERVALE DR OCEANSIDE CA 92057-8228 LOS ANGELES CA 90065-5134 SHERMAN OAKS CA 91403-4607 ADAMSON, ROBERT GILBERT MOORE,NANCY ANN RODRIGUEZ, AVERY 504-083-007 504-083-008 504-083-009 545 W YORBA RD 565 W YORBA RD 593 W YORBA RD PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-1967 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-1967 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-1967 MCNEEL, BRIELLE LEE HILL,JOSEPHINE ANN PIROZZI,GIOVANNI 504-083-010 504-083-012 504-091-002 PO BOX 761 1699 CATALONIA WAY PO BOX 328 PALM SPRINGS CA 92263-0761 SAN JOSE CA 95125-5825 PALM SPRINGS CA 92263-0328 PIROZZI, GIOVANNI RIPALDI,CARL PETER ATIK, BASSIM 504-091-004 504-060-020 504-091-012 PO BOX 328 6826 IRIS CIR 9207 LA COLONIA AVE PALM SPRINGS CA 92263-0328 HOLLYWOOD CA 90068-2716 FOUNTAIN VALLEY CA 92708-2761 PIROZZI, GIOVANNI PIROZZI,GIOVANNI NODARSE,YOLANDA E 504-091-013 504-091-014 504-041-030 PO BOX 328 PO BOX 328 PO BOX 9570 PALM SPRINGS CA 92263-0328 PALM SPRINGS CA 92263-0328 ONTARIO CA 91762-9570 MARTIN, ROBERT O AMERICAN LAND LIQUIDATORS INC CARRILLO,LUIS 504-092-013 504-092-020 504-082-012 575 W PICO RD 7586 WOODROW WILSON DR 560 W YORBA RD PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-1915 LOS ANGELES CA 90046-1325 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-1968 SMITH,JOY ANN AMERICAN LAND LIQUIDATORS INC ESPINOSA, CARMEN DEL PILAR 504-082-013 504-092-021 504-041-027 540 W YORBA RD 7586 WOODROW WILSON DR PO BOX 646 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-1968 LOS ANGELES CA 90046-1325 MOORPARK CA 93020-0646 BUNCHIEN,NARIT FRANDZEL, MARILYN MASSEUR,COURTNEY KOVACH 504-041-025 504-083-011 504-041-026 1622 34TH AVE 7611 TRUXTON AVE 15 LANGLEY ST SAN FRANCISCO CA 94 1 22-3 1 1 5 LOS ANGELES CA 90045-1655 WARWICK RI 02889-9027 HYETT, MAURICE C PIROZZI,GIOVANNI N R M E CORPORATION 504-041-024 504-091-003 504-041-023 6004 ANNAN WAY PO BOX 328 9663 SANTA MONICA BLVD 9 665 LOS ANGELES CA 90042-1224 PALM SPRINGS CA 92263-0328 BEVERLY HILLS CA 90210-4303 PIROZZI,GIOVANNI ROBERTS, GARY L PIROZZI, GIOVANNI 504-091-005 504-041-021 504-091-006 PO BOX 328 1600 B SW DASH POINT RD PO BOX 328 PALM SPRINGS CA 92263-0328 FEDERAL WAY WA 98023- PALM SPRINGS CA 92263-0328 PIROZZI, GIOVANNI BLAKE, JULIA C AGHAZARIAN,ARMOND 504-091-010 504-091-011 504-041-022 PO BOX 328 305 AVENIDA ATEZADA PO BOX 5472 PALM SPRINGS CA 92263-0328 REDONDO BEACH CA 90277-6723 GLENDALE CA 91221-5472 RITCHIE, DANIEL T 04-041-019 CLEARY, MICHAEL M DENNEY, MARSHA A 6 504-041-020 504-092-0144-041-0 WOODTHORPE RD TORONTO 30746 EARLY ROUND DR 39381 OAK VIEW LN CANADA -CANADA CANYON LAKE CA 92587-7510 CHERRY VALLEY CA 92223-5830 AMERICAN LAND LIQUIDATORS INC SCHNEIDER, LINDSEY R SCHOONOVER,PATRICIA L 504-092-019 504-041-015 504-041-016 7586 WOODROW WILSON DR 500 S PALM CANYON DR 4 3 5414 LA SIERRA AVE LOS ANGELES CA 90046-1325 PALM SPRINGS CA 92264-7472 RIVERSIDE CA 92505-2415 THE ENTRUST GROUP NA.D ER nnncnTn TAYLOR, JOHN P 504-041-014 504 041 0113 504-041-028 555 12TH ST STE 1250 66111 c n A i M CANYON N YONi nn 9 7 297 80664 CAMINO SANTA ELISE OAKLAND CA 94607-4095 n AA M SPR- 49n Q4 93264��13 INDIO CA 92203-7498 BOURTRSIAN,NAZARETH G BILL RICHARDSON REVOCABLE AMRHEIN,EDWARD J 504-041-011 TRUST 504-041-010 629 S HILL SIR ST 403 504-041-0122825 N LOS FELICES RD 691 IROLO ST APT 1707 LOS ANGELES CA 90014- PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-1981 LOS ANGELES CA 90005-4137 ARNOLD, JAMES M REA,ESTA NACHAM,GARRY 504-041-009 504-041-007 504-041-008 454 W NORLHRIDGE AVE 2825 N LOS FELICES RD UNIT 110 7651 DUQUESNE PL GLENDORA CA 91741-2037 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-0629 WESTMINSTER CA 92683-6222 SEIFERT, STEPHEN R ZIRN, RICHARD gP,-A}tE$LEY'K ro r 504-041-006 504.041-005 304-044-004 30097 MUIRFIELD WAY 2825 N LOS FELICF,S RD UNIT 112 "1P1�.,- -" ^ GA4,LWA CATHEDRAL CITY CA 92234-0802 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-0630 LAGUNA ❑L A C14 CA 92677 7542 GARRIS, STANLEY LAUREYS, CECILIA OHARE,ARTHUR 504-041-003 504-041-001 504-041-002 10266 ALLAMANDA CIR 2825 N LOS FELICES RD UNIT 116 20 PARMA PALM BEACH GARDENS FL 33410- PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-0630 IRVINE CA 92602-1657 5241 HUG, KATHERINE HARRIS, ROBIN E GUILBAULT,GERARD 504-060-010 504-060-009 504-041-029 2739 N PALM CANYON DR 22295 PARKMEAD DR 530 NORTHWOOD AVE PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-1859 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-1090 BANNING CA 92220-5275 MENDEZ, WILLIAM REVILLE, SHARI 1IARRIS, ROBIN E 504-041-018 504-041-017 504-060-008 2825 N LOS FELICES RD UNIT 200 PO BOX 1671 22295 PARKMEAD DR PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-0631 RANCHO MIRAGE CA 92270-1057 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-1090 ELLES, SIEGFRIED TOPOUZIDES, DAMIAN P HASTINGS,MARK ANDREW 504-054-006 504-081-012 504-082-007 2763 N JUNIPERO AVE 1033 4TH ST 222 BEACH RD PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-1829 SANTA MONICA CA 90403-6120 MARINA CA 93933-2603 AILABOUNI,JOSEPH WESSMAN,HOLDINGS BLAKE,CORA B 504-092-012 504-040-050 504-054-007 485 W PICO RD 555 S SUNRISE WAY STE 200 PO BOX 236 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-1915 PALM SPRINGS CA 92264-7894 PALM SPRINGS CA 92263-0236 DEUTSCHE BANK NATL TRUST 504-042-082 3815 SW TEMPLE SALT LAKE CITY UT 84115- �4J A, Neighborhood Map-1/2 Mile Radius HSPB 99 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive—Shell Gas Station, nomination for Class One historic designation Desert Highlands/Gateway cindylou052no.yahoo.com Little Tuscany den n is.I.woodsCcDg mail.corn Racquet Club West bobfarranC@yahoo.com fAk Mountaut Gate.. �sf b j,u'S iDes, -ighlan a/`Gateway ry��'`y r C•�xY" l. . awl�. Racquet Club West Racquet Club Estates III I'i i LTtleTuscany Legend ®Site .5 Mile Radius - Parcels Neighborhood Map-1/2 Mile Radius HSPB 99 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive—Shell Gas Station, nomination for Class One historic designation Desert Highlands/Gateway cindylou052(@Vahoo.com Little Tuscany dennis.l.wood s c,)gmail.com Racquet Club West bobfarran(o)yahoo.com Mountain Gate i-� - Desert Highland I Gateway`,; i _ W. 7).. _..: RacquetClubWeatt Racquet Club Estates i Lytle Tuscany Legend ®Ste 5 Mile Radius - - Parcels NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY COUNCIL CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA PROPOSED DESIGNATION OF 2796 NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE "THE TRAM WAY SHELL GAS STATION" AS A CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE HSPB #99 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Palm Springs, California, will hold a Public Hearing at its meeting of January 4, 2017. The City Council meeting begins at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chamber at City Hall, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs. The purpose of the hearing is to consider a recommendation by the Historic Site Preservation Board to designate 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive 'The Bob Simmons Tram Way Shell Gas Station", a Class 1 Historic Site. ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION: The proposed historic site designation is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) (the activity will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment) and 15060(c)(3) (the activity is not a project as defined in Section 15378) of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3, because it has no potential for resulting in physical changes to the environment, directly or indirectly. REVIEW OF PROJECT INFORMATION: The staff report and other supporting documents regarding this project are available for public review at City Hall between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Please contact the Office of the City Clerk at (760) 323-8204 if you would like to schedule an appointment to review these documents. COMMENT ON THIS APPLICATION: Response to this notice may be made verbally at the Public Hearing and/or in writing before the hearing. Written comments may be made to the City Council by email at citvclerk(ftalmsprings-ca.gov, or letter (for mail or hand delivery) to: Kathleen D. Hart, MMC, Interim City Clerk 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs, CA 92262 Any challenge of the proposed project in court may be limited to raising only those issues raised at the Public Hearing described in this Notice or in written correspondence delivered to the City Clerk at, or prior to, the City Council hearing. (Government Code Section 65009[b][2]). An opportunity will be given at said hearing for all interested persons to be heard. Questions regarding this case may be directed to Ken Lyon, RA, Associate Planner, at (760) 323-8245. Si necesita ayuda con esta carta, por favor Ilame a la Ciudad de Palm Springs y puede hablar con Felipe Primera telefono (760) 323-8253. j Kathleen D. Hart, MMC Interim City Clerk 69 Y CF d PLM da*i Department of Planning Services w _ E •�C�O+°..ne"ep• Vicinity Map q�lFORM� _ RGA6 GAgA RGA6 PD I i I --RGA6 �i R3 O PICO RD r s ` �•"5RGA6 ,r SAN MARCO WAY - --- ,. SEPULVEDA RD f0 �10 S ., 11 RGA6 !? .RGA6 _.�P,� C1 ,pp / t R1C RGA6 0 C1 y - �p RGA6j-..... R1C Q F �•� 1 Legend 44 ALVARADORD R1C RGA6 ---- ®Site _ 500'Radius RGA6 CABRILLO RD Ct aZoning Parcels R1C - - -R1C RGA6 -- R2— --C1 - R CITY OF PALM SPRINGS HSPB 99 - 2796 North Palm Canyon Drive 70