Building plans in the historic Dunbar area are halted by the city of Little Rock

Little Rock, Arkansas – In their efforts to preserve Little Rock’s past, the Quapaw Quarter Association and the Dunbar Historic Neighborhood Association are both rejoicing in a minor win.

E&Y Custom Homes presented redevelopment proposals to the Little Rock Planning Commission on Thursday.

Two brand-new, updated residences would be constructed on 1516 S Ringo Street in Little Rock as part of the plans.

However, community leaders such as DHNA Executive Director Angel Burt opposed the gathering. She has been fighting hard for months to preserve that block’s history along S Ringo Street.

“There are many things we can modernize. But items that are important to your culture and history must be kept safe,” Burt explained.

She added that the priceless properties are more than simply houses and that there is no way to put a value on them.

“We must pay respect to this location because it was the pioneer of everything. We must be honorable and respectful. This house is located on what we refer to as the Bush Row, which was founded by John E. Bush, a businessman who founded insurance firms all across the nation,” Burt continued.

During the meeting, developer Erica York expressed her surprise at the opposition. She also described how they had previously constructed in the area.

“We’ve built six beautiful homes in this area already and are trying to meet the need to fix the housing crisis,” York said.

Two duplexes that she planned and constructed are virtually in the backyard of the property where they hope to expand, according to the E&Y website.

The commissioners voted against the developer’s plan to construct the two brand-new, updated residences after hearing all sides of the dispute.

She stated that her battle to remind people of the past would never end, even as Burt celebrates that decision.

“We’re making every effort to maintain the integrity of these homes and this block,” Burt stated.