Preservation Online, a publication by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, has a story about the City of Albuquerque fending off an attempt by a developer to demolish the historic El Vado Motel on Route 66.
Much of the information in the Preservation Online story has already been reported here and in other media. But a couple of things stand out, including this comment by Mayor Marty Chavez:
Chavez says city officials have been brainstorming about a new use for the Pueblo-style motel. “One of the ideas we’re throwing around is a neon museum,” he says. The museum could display some of Route 66’s salvaged neon signs, Chavez says. “It would be almost like a drive-through museum.”
I’d rather have El Vado remain a motel, but I admit this sounds like a fine alternative if all else fails.
Most striking is the photo, shot by the City of Albuquerque, that goes with the story. I have no words. Just see it.