P&Z OKs Wildflyer’s rustic finish

At the Thursday, Aug. 10, Navasota Planning & Zoning meeting, commissioners completed their review of the Wildflyer Mead and Beer Co. preliminary site plan by approving the Corten corrugated exterior steel panels for the bar/ restaurant.

Commissioners originally reviewed the site plan May 11 and after lengthy discussion determined the redesign of the former Public Works building at 221 S. Railroad Street was not new construction; however, its location in the Central Business District and accompanying design standards did factor into P&Z’s request for owner Jeff Murray to bring samples of the proposed metallic exterior finish back for final approval.

Murray said, “It’s a sealed material that has a finish on it that allows it to oxidize on the surface. It’s a more durable long lasting product that’s allowed to rust.”

Referring to the May 11 discussion of the ordinance, masonry requirements and aesthetics, Dr. John Walla said, “The ordinance itself says that it’s for new construction. This is an older building that was a warehouse that had corrugated metal on it at one time. We’re going back to a more historical theme of what it was anyway with a new function.”

Before adjourning, commissioners approved the minutes of the July 13 meeting.

The meeting may be viewed in its entirety at https://www.navasotatx. gov/planning-zoning-commission.