The main building that largely comprises the Crystal City Shopping Center in southwest Tulsa sold today for $435,000, which was less than half what was anticipated, according to several Tulsa media outlets.
KTVI-TV reported that City Councilor Jeannie Cue said the new owner had a good reputation for maintaining its buildings — a major issue for years with Crystal City.
The former owner shouldn’t have been surprised with the lower-than-expected final bid at the auction, because his persistent indifference drove down the price of the property. At one point just a few years ago, I heard the City of Tulsa was poised to seize the shopping center as a public nuisance.
The same bidder also bought smaller nearby parcel for $40,000.
None of the reports revealed the identity of the buyer. According to one report, the main parcel was bought online, with the only identification as “JT.”
KJRH-TV said Sam’s Offroad purchased a second building nearby for $89,000. I’ve heard Sam’s wanted the building for storage purposes, but the asking price from the previous owner was too high.
It’s been rumored a section of the building that once housed a bowling alley could become a local Route 66 museum. The City of Tulsa also soon will construct one of the Route 66 gateways in that area.
Hmmm…JT? Justin Timberlake? John Turturro? James Taylor? I’m sure it’s one of those guys.