Historic Resource Board
Week of February 25, 2026
Acacia fraternity proposes expansion in Lee Elementary Neighborhood Historic District
Proposed parking lot sparks debate over historic landscape integrity
Residents highlight mid-century modern significance of Hunting Avenue
Renovation planned for vacant Hunting Avenue property
Zoning hurdles stall official review of fraternity project
Board members push to revisit Sunset Cemetery historic designation
Acacia fraternity proposes expansion in Lee Elementary Neighborhood Historic District
MANHATTAN, Kan. — The Acacia Fraternity presented a preliminary concept to the Historic Resources Board regarding a proposed expansion at 2005 Hunting Ave., a project in development for approximately 20 months. The plan aims to add a 10-room, two-story addition to the existing facility to accommodate roughly 20 additional members, featuring an Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant entrance. The applicant noted that the new construction is designed to be largely concealed from public street view to maintain the historic facade of the original structure within the district.
Proposed parking lot sparks debate over historic landscape integrity
MANHATTAN, Kan. — A proposal by the Acacia Fraternity to convert the backyards of two adjacent lots into a 37-space parking lot has drawn criticism from residents and board members concerned about the loss of green space. While the applicant argued the lot would alleviate street parking congestion, opponents contended that the "park-like" setting is a character-defining feature of the mid-century modern district. Mel Borst, a resident and active member of the local preservation community, likened paving the area to destroying a "paradise," emphasizing the need to protect the neighborhood's historic landscape.
Residents highlight mid-century modern significance of Hunting Avenue
MANHATTAN, Kan. — Residents provided a detailed history of the Lee Elementary Neighborhood Historic District during public comment on the Acacia Fraternity proposal, emphasizing its link to Manhattan's 1953 "All-American City" designation. Speakers argued that the district represents a significant collection of mid-century modern architecture where the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces is paramount, urging the board to evaluate the entire building site, including landscaping and topography, when considering the impact of the proposed parking lot.
Renovation planned for vacant Hunting Avenue property
MANHATTAN, Kan. — The Acacia Fraternity confirmed intentions to rehabilitate a vacant house it owns at 2015 Hunting Ave., a property that was previously the subject of a denied demolition request. The project is currently undergoing a minor review by Senior Planner Ben Chmiel and city staff for upgrades and remediation. The applicant stated the fraternity is committed to maintaining the structure, a move welcomed by neighbors who had previously opposed its demolition.
Zoning hurdles stall official review of fraternity project
MANHATTAN, Kan. — Senior Planner Ben Chmiel informed the board that the Acacia Fraternity's expansion project cannot currently proceed to an official vote because it does not meet existing zoning requirements. Chmiel explained that the proposed parking lot is located on land recently replatted into the fraternity's possession but lacks the "University Fringe Overlay" required for fraternity uses. As the parking lot is considered an accessory use, the lack of proper underlying zoning for the principal use prevents the board from issuing a certificate of appropriateness at this time.
Board members push to revisit Sunset Cemetery historic designation
MANHATTAN, Kan. — Historic Resources Board members expressed interest in reviving efforts to add Sunset Cemetery to the historic register, a topic originally studied in 2018 but delayed pending a master plan and site improvements. City staff noted that while the Parks and Recreation Department is currently managing improvements and relocations within the cemetery, the board could potentially resubmit the site for designation in the future, prompting members to request a revisit of the issue soon.
Found a mistake? Have a news tip or feedback to share? Contact our newsroom using the button below:
