NEWS: Yorktown Design Committee Considers New Waterfront Enhancements
Projects include permanent pavilion at Freight Shed and tributes to General Lafayette, French soldiers
At its June 25 meeting, the Historic Yorktown Design Committee reviewed several proposals aimed at enhancing the historic charm and educational appeal of the village’s waterfront. Projects included a new permanent pavilion, memorial and educational signage, and improvements to existing structures—all evaluated for alignment with the Yorktown Design Guidelines.
Freight Shed Pavilion
York County proposed replacing the existing canvas tent behind the Freight Shed with a permanent 60-by-40-foot pavilion. The structure would feature a gabled roof, synthetic slate tiles, white PVC-wrapped wood columns, and roll-down screens. Designed to reflect traditional Yorktown architecture, the pavilion is intended to complement surrounding buildings without obstructing views. Repairs to the Freight Shed doors, including the addition of black metal-framed glass doors, were also included in the plan. Staff deemed the project visually compatible and recommended approval, despite the use of some non-traditional materials like PVC.
Lafayette Commemorative Sign
Another sign proposal commemorates General Lafayette’s 1784 return to Yorktown. Sponsored by York County, the Virginia Children of the American Revolution, and the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, the cast aluminum sign will be painted red, white, and blue and placed west of the L-shaped pier—an area currently without educational signage. Staff found the design appropriate and recommended approval.
French Soldier Memorial Sign
In partnership with the American Society of Le Souvenir Français, York County proposed a granite plaque honoring French soldiers who fought in the Battle of Yorktown. The plaque would be installed near the docking pier on Water Street, joining other historical markers in the area. Though its size slightly exceeds general signage limits, staff supported the project for its historical value and design consistency.
Educational Watershed Signs
York County also presented a plan to install educational signs about the York Watershed System at three key waterfront piers. These small metal signs will include QR codes and be mounted on natural wood posts. Though educational signs are not specifically addressed in the design guidelines, staff found the proposal consistent with existing signage styles and recommended approval.
A Williamsburg Independent contributor produced this post with AI and these sources:
AGENDA - Historic Yorktown Design Committee - June 25, 2024
Yorktown Historic District and Design Guidelines