July 2011
Del Taco says Adios
The saucer-shaped structure formally home to Del Taco officially closed its doors Thursday, June 30 to area residents and Martians alike. Located at 212 South Grand Boulevard, the building, famously known for its obscure architecture, has a good deal of history behind it. In the 1960’s, the building was home to a Phillips 66 gas station and along with three nearby buildings made up ‘Council Plaza’- constructed for a senior citizen housing development plan. All four buildings were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2007.
Current drama over the building surrounds Board Bill #118- a proposed bill that would provide tax abatement to redevelop the property and potentially fund a buildings demolition; however, any developer wishing to demolish historical property would still need to get approval from the Preservation Board. From the Save St. Louis Del Taco Facebook Page to an area rally last week, St. Louisans are more than vocal on their perspective of demolishing the building and are hoping to gain support from the Landmarks Association of St. Louis for its preservation.
The buildings owner is looking into finding a new tenant, but wishes to demolish it if no one steps up to the “saucer”. Members of the Facebook page are suggesting ‘In-N-Out burger’, a California staple, or perhaps ‘Ted Drewes’, a St. Louis favorite. The full Board of Alderman will be voting on the proposed bill on Friday, July 8, 2011.
Kristyn Potter 