I had the privilege of living in Durango in 1998 and consider Durango my second home. My grandparents were born and raised in Durango as well as my mom. My parents, who retired to Hesperus, brought it to my attention that the city of Durango is proposing the removal of the canopy on the Francisco’s storefront and creating three cookie-cutter retail spaces. This would be a disgrace to historic Main Avenue!

It was heartbreaking enough when Francisco’s closed, but to destroy the original façade would forever change the face of downtown Durango. A great compromise was found in the fairgrounds vs. Walmart situation, so I’m sure there is a better solution with the canopy vs. vanilla storefront situation. The community of Durango is so incredibly creative, I suggest putting the situation out to the public. I am confident that an amazing solution is not that far away and historic downtown Durango can be preserved forever.

I have not been back to town since New Year’s Eve 2007; this breaks my heart. There were so many changes that I had to squint my eyes to see the downtown Durango I have loved my entire life. It would be devastating to have to close my eyes to remember my beloved Durango when I am standing on the threshold of the Strater Hotel.

Please, for every person that loves Durango and for those that will come to love Durango, don’t let the city forever change the façade of historic downtown Durango!

Tracy Morris

Phoenix