All buildings need not look the same, nor should they be required to fit whatever style is trendy. And in contemporary America, anything that has been around for almost half a century has to be seen as having at least some historic value.
So, instead of pestering Francis and Claudine Garcia to remodel the front of their building at 619 Main Avenue to suit city planners, why not recognize the contributions they have made to this community and let them redo their building as they choose?
Following city usage, the Herald has referred to the structure covering the sidewalk in front of the Francisco’s building as a veranda. It is more properly called a portico and it seems to offend city planners.
But that portico is private property and the property itself is not changing hands. The owners are simply remodeling the interior to accommodate three businesses.
The city says Spanish architectural style is not native to Durango, but Spanish explorers passed through here in the 18th century for a couple of centuries this was Spanish territory. Durango also has a direct connection to Spain in the names of a number of long-time Durango families – including the Garcias. Why not give a nod to that?
If the city’s goal is to homogenize Durango’s look to fit contemporary style it has a long way to go. And it should explain why some looks that were once trendy can continue while others must change. The Herald’s building and the West Building on East Second Avenue are 1960s glass and steel. The county’s building on 11th Street represents another ’60s fashion, call it the sci-fi school of design. The School District 9-R administration building proudly dates to 1917 and nothing like it would be built today. Why is Francisco’s offensive but others are not?
Besides, that portico has been there for decades. Francisco’s opened in 1968 and the Garcias operated it for 45 years. That may not be ancient, but it is historic. And it meant jobs (and good food) for generations of Durangoans.
Why not honor that? Instead of making the portico an issue, attach a little plaque on one of the pillars describing its history and significance.
Failing that, the city should leave the Garcias alone.
