Winthrop / Prium Update and Rumors
The city council will vote tonight to approve a $2 million UDAG loan (Urban Development Action Grant) to Prium for the redevelopment of the hotel and relocation of its residents.
The question many of us have been having is, what is Prium’s plan for the the low income residents? Unfortunately, from what we hear, Prium is planning on moving the housing units currently at the Winthrop to Hilltop, most likely to 1100 MLK, in a single block. Interestingly, the plan by the City Manager to redefine downtown to just shy of MLK would put this proposed new facility outside of the area protected by the Miller Amendment.
If true, this rumor would be a definite blow to the original spirit of the Winthrop Hotel idealists who thought that this would be an opportunity to split the Winthrop’s section 8 voucher into several smaller units. I really hope there’s more to this story that we haven’t heard yet…
Filed under: The Winthrop, Tacoma Landmarks
8 comments
N Nick December 4, 2008
I walk by there every day after work (at least on those elusive dry/warmer days) – it would be so great to see something go in there.
It’s been waay under-utilized for too long – the only thing I’ve seen it used for has been for covered parking.
It’s sad really, especially considering the location and the fact that it’s already completely gutted – a blank slate just waiting for someone to build in!
S Squid December 4, 2008
To me, this cries out authentic Mexican cantina, complete with weekend mariachi band. Think El Puerco Lloron with a bar.
J Jesse December 4, 2008
Do you think there’s room for another doggie daycare in the area? If I knew I could swing it, I’d own one and do that for my living.
M morgan December 4, 2008
For a little more you can throw in the Webster (is that the name?) apartments right next door which could be converted into a boutique hotel… once the economy picks back up.
P P December 5, 2008
I’ve heard a lot of people talking about bike coops in this city. This would make a great bike coop location. Any benefactors out there that want to front the mortgage payments?
T Tacoma (A)roma December 5, 2008
I remember back in the day (2004-2005?) a friend of mine brought me here to see some of her buddies. A group of folks were living here and had fixed up the place. So much so apparently, that the landlord thought now the place was ready to sell so he cancelled their lease. As far as I know its been empty ever since. Cool damn building.
M Mike G December 7, 2008
Remember Silent Studios? New Year’s parties?
D dni December 8, 2008
Yep. Remember those.