Architects preview designs for new City Hall complex

After years of often acrimonious debate on the issue, including the failure of a previous bond issue, Alamo Heights residents on July 24 finally got their first look at detailed plans for a new municipal complex.

Overland Partners Architects unveiled several different configuration proposals for the $6.3 million structure, which will replace: a 1927 City Hall building that is deteriorating and cramped, and a fire station that was built as a temporary structure in 1952 and does not even meet present building codes.

The new facility will also include new City Council chambers. The awkward layout of the current chambers has been a source of consternation for residents attending city meetings.

Some participants in the first of two community input meetings July 24 had to stand due to a lack of space, and others were clustered in a part of the council chambers where they could not see the presentation from architect Joel Albea.

"In addition to a very functional building, it is our desire to create a great public presence," Albea said. "This will set an example to the community for redevelopment along the Broadway corridor."

All of the proposals floated consist of 25,700 square feet of professional space constructed on the existing site, with the present 78 parking spaces increased to 98.

All proposals involve a two-story fire station on the north end of the property, at the corner of Broadway and Bluebonnet, with parking spaces along Bluebonnet.

Overland Partners also call for a two-story administration building, and the police station along the back of the building, facing a parking lot for police cruisers.

One proposal has the council chambers in the back of the building, near the parking lot, while another moves council chambers to the southwest edge of the property, where it can placed prominently on Broadway.

The designs contain an arcade along Broadway that would enclose a courtyard, and provide direct access into the city administration area, council chambers and police station.

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Architects preview designs for new City Hall complex