September 19, 2019
A new condition assessment report on the historic Harley Clarke Mansion and coach house in Evanston finds the 91-year-old structure in stable and repairable condition. The report was prepared by Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE), on behalf of Landmarks Illinois, and serves as an update to a 2016 condition assessment also conducted by WJE.
“While in need of maintenance, the Harley Clarke Mansion is generally in serviceable condition,” the condition assessment report states. The report says current damage, such as that to the masonry, is generally consistent to a building of this age.
The recent report, issued in September 2019, comes after WJE visited the property during one of the City of Evanston’s open houses for parties interested in responding to the city’s RFP for long-term lease, rehabilitation and reuse of Harley Clarke. Landmarks Illinois is publicly providing the revised WJE condition assessment for all parties interested in responding to the city’s RFP.
Landmarks Illinois included the Harley Clarke Mansion on its 2016 Most Endangered Historic Places in Illinois and has continued to provide technical and advocacy assistance in Evanston, working with elected officials, local advocates, preservation consultants and others to determine a viable reuse solution for the architecturally and culturally significant lakefront property.
The condition assessment report details and prioritizes repairs needed at the property and offers estimates on the cost to do so. Those interested in submitting a proposal to the City of Evanston to repair and reuse the Harley Clarke Mansion can use this report to determine scope of work. Proposals are due to the city February 28, 2020. The bidder must demonstrate some community use and benefit with its proposal.
The City of Evanston will host its next open house on Oct. 1, 2 and 3 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. for parties interested in submitting a proposal for Harley Clarke. More information on the RFP process can be found at the City of Evanston’s website.
Download the full Condition Assessment Report Here:
Harley Clarke Condition Assessment