There was a brief AP report by a TV station in Albuquerque today that said the historic El Vado Motel’s demolition is all but a done deal. However, I found another new report from a local Albuquerque newspaper that clarifies it better.

However, there is this cryptic quote from the motel’s new owner, Richard Gonzales:

Gonzales said he doesn’t need the zoning change to build town homes but wants it so that the property will be restricted to residential use.

“If I don’t get the zoning, that doesn’t stop the project,” he said. “As far as demolishing it, nothing will prohibit me.”

I don’t know about that. Most municipalties have pretty strict rules on demolition permits. Albuquerque certainly has building permits, as I’ve found on the city’s codes online.

This proposed destruction of a Route 66 landmark is why there needs to be a presence at the city’s Planning Commission meeting on Oct. 20. I know of at least one person from the Route 66 community who will attend it.

I’ll post more as I learn it.

UPDATE: Yep, the city of Albuquerque does require a demolition permit before proceeding.

Here it is in black and white:

DEMOLITION

All demolition work requires a permit from Development and Building Services Center (DBSC). Under the Air Pollution Control Regulations, demolition of structures 75,000 cubic feet or larger requires an additional permit from the Environmental Health Department, Air Pollution Control Division to insure that adequate measures are taken to control or prevent airborne particulate matter.

Demolition permits require the approval of the Code Administration Division (CAD), the Traffic Engineering Division, Public Works Department, the Environmental Health Department and the Fire Department.

Governing Regulations: Uniform Administrative Code (establishes permit)

Uniform Building Code

Traffic Code

Fire Prevention Code

Air Pollution Control Regulations (establishes permit for demolition of structures over 75,000 cubic feet)

See also: National Fire Protection Association and Uniform Building Code, “Protection of Pedestrians During Construction or Demolition.”

Procedure:

Step 1: Application form is obtained at permit desk, Development and Building Services Center (DBSC).

Applicant obtains approval from other agencies on permit form.

A. Code Administration Division and Fire Marshall’s Office approvals are obtained at Development and Building Services Center (DBSC).

B. Traffic Engineering - if canopies, fences or rails are required or if pedestrian traffic is to be rerouted, Traffic Engineering requires a site plan showing locations of canopies, fences or rails and the method of rerouting pedestrian traffic.

C. Environmental Health Department, Air Pollution Control Division - for discussion and approval; or if structure is 75,000 cubic feet or larger, apply for Demolition Permit issued by the Environmental Health Department. The procedure is the same as for a surface disturbance permit which is described in Chapter 8.

D. Public Works Department, Water Systems Division - for approval of fire hydrant use during demolition. Customer Services Division - to arrange for meter for fire hydrant.

Step 2: Return permit form to Development and Building Services for permit issuance and payment of fee. The demolition permit issued by Development and Building Services Center (DBSC) is effective for 180 days. An extension of 180 days may be granted upon written request.

Before beginning demolition work, ensure disconnection of all gas and electrical supply systems by Gas Company of New Mexico and Public Service Company.

The whole thing can be perused here.

… with Karen and Bob Pinkaney, who told the Quay County Sun in Tucumcari, N.M., their opinion of the Blue Swallow Motel:

This is better than the Holiday Inns where we’ve been staying,� said artist Karen Pinkaney. Her husband added, “It’s the best place we’ve been in on the whole trip.�

The story can be read here.