We’ve known about this for a couple of weeks, but today we nailed down the details why: The Sunrise Motel at 805 N. Service Road in Sullivan, Mo., has been razed to make way for an improved overpass over Interstate 44.
I’m not aware whether the Sunrise was ever on old Route 66 itself, but it was very close. And its sign certainly was distinctive.
The motel has changed hands, and Lisa Hellman at the City of Sullivan Economic Development office said the new owners are seeking to redevelop the site.
She also said in her e-mail:
Old 66 Highway is changing fast in this part of the county as I see it. We will just be left remembering how it was and our pictures soon.
I’m familiar with the current overpass, and traffic on it is a big mess most of the time. It’s too bad the Sunrise was regarded as in the way to improve it.
(Photo courtesy of The Lope.)