This video, less than a minute, serves as an introduction to this post.

Experts frequently disagree about the same thing. It's all about how you look at it. In the case of the Norwood House, such different ways of looking at the same thing are highlighted. The preservation specialist with the consultants studying the Norwood property, recommended demolition. She noted that only 40% of the house was salvageable (experts disagree on this too) and said it was "fiscally irresponsible" to fix it. Her opinion was just about the money. Nothing about the merits of the original architecture. Nothing about the part Ollie Norwood played in early 19th century Austin history. And nothing about the Norwood Posse plan for a low cost restoration. 

No matter! The Norwood Posse sees that 40% as a lot more than 0%. Enough of the original structure is intact,, according to our experts, that restoration/reconstruction can begin as soon as the city gives the green light....no waiting for a November 2012 bond election when voters might approve funds. On July 19 we will present a comprehensive proposal to senior PARD staff, to fix the house. This plan does not rely on public funds, as a private investor has offered to underwrite the major portion of the cost. With active support from PARD and the City of Austin, donations of money, time, services and materials will accelerate. The goal is to return the house to its original, exterior appearance. The interior will be re-designed to suit whatever end use is agreed upon. Since PARD has no money to restore, operate or maintain the re-done house, it will need to be financially self-sufficient. A recontructed Norwood house will not only fit the character of the neighborhood and begin the transformation of that gateway property into a destination site, it will impact the re-development of the entire property. We have plenty of existing new structures highlighting modern design. It would serve Austin's character well to have a few more visible examples of our cultural heritage. 

The proposal now being crafted will be an example of how to make the best use of available resources. The latest green building techniques and products will be utilized in this sustainable demonstration project. If you want more information contact me at  restorenorwood@yahoo.com. If you support our effort to use private money to repair this forgotten piece of public property, let PARD Director Sara Hensley know.....     Sara.Hensley@ci.austin.tx.us