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Aug 15, 2006 10:10 pm US/Central
Deep Ellum Tunnel To Be Demolished
by Jay Gormley
DALLAS (CBS 11 News) ―
It's the last days for a Dallas landmark. The eclectic tunnel that connects downtown to Deep Ellum will soon be demolished to make way for a new DART Rail Station.
For some the rail station will be a welcomed site, but critics say the City of Dallas is once again tearing down its history.
For decades the tunnel has provided an eclectic passage way. One resident said, "Well there's something about that 'popping up'. You're in Deep Ellum. You're in a different neighborhood."
Built in 1930, many see the Deep Ellum Tunnel as a timeless landmark. The tunnel was even featured in an ad campaign spot lighting Dallas to the nation.
"…Because it's such a gateway to the neighborhood. It's a unique architectural feature that has evolved over the years," said Mark Sonna, Mark & Larry's Stuff.
Next week the tunnel, and its well-known murals, will be demolished to make way for a new DART Rail Station.
The demolition of the tunnel comes as Deep Ellum seeks a new beginning. The neighborhood is changing its image... trying to attract more residents and live music venues, and less late-night clubs.
"We're moving on. It's old. We're moving into the next century now. We do need the transportation. I think it will help the community. I think we'll become a real 'village' now," said Barry Annino, Deep Ellum Association.
Changes are already in the works. New illuminating signs are in place to make parking lots brighter and safer. Parking is now free during the day to entice people to come to Deep Ellum before the sun goes down.
Recently it was announced that a new residential complex would go up in the area. Three-hundred lofts will be built near Malcolm X and Elm Street.
Not all of the artwork along the tunnel will be lost. DART is donating $1.5 million to build a new gateway into Deep Ellum. Plans for that include moving a few of the old murals to a new home.
(CBS 11 News)
