City Council takes up landmarking of Broadways Eldridge Tire building

The Seattle City Council is poised to consider the landmark designation of the Eldridge Tire building, a historically significant structure located on Broadway. Built in 1925 and noted for its Mission Revival-style architecture, the building has been recognized for its cultural value and contribution to the auto row era. Currently, it accommodates businesses like Tacos Guaymas and Folicle Hair Design, which are vital to the local community. The landmark designation will protect the building's exterior while allowing the city to incentivize developers to preserve character facades in exchange for increased building height allowances. Seattle Central College, which owns the property, is also eyeing a strategic trade with Sound Transit that could enhance its future development plans, particularly for affordable faculty housing.

Recent demolitions by the college in the area indicate a shift towards revitalizing the neighborhood and meeting housing demands. As the city council deliberates this matter, the outcome could shape the architectural and economic landscape of Capitol Hill significantly. The decision underscores the ongoing tension between historical preservation and urban development in rapidly changing neighborhoods.