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NEWS

Historic building's future still under review

City engineers continue evaluating historic Downtown property, keeping nearby road closures and detours in place

Published Modified

Lindy’s Diner remains under evaluation after city officials said additional assessments of the historic Bliss Building need to be completed before a determination on the restaurant's future. 

A structural engineer Thursday conducted a secondary review of the property at 500 Central SW in Downtown Albuquerque after the city Wednesday found that the building contained asbestos in portions of piping and floor adhesive.

The asbestos was found as part of an initial evaluation done two days after a portion of Lindy’s Diner collapsed, leaving behind a pile of brick and other debris in its wake.

“The city will meet with the engineering firm on Monday, May 4, for a debrief and assessment of the site and we intend to provide updates as they become available,” said Tim Walsh, spokesperson for the city of Albuquerque, in a Friday news release. 

Walsh said it is unknown if a final determination will be made Monday and added that if there is “something substantial," the city will send additional updates. 

Road closures at Fifth and Central will remain in effect for the foreseeable future, Walsh said. Fencing continues to line the streets surrounding the building, and the city has reinforced the perimeter with concrete barriers as an additional safety measure. 

“For their protection, the public is strongly urged to avoid the area and maintain a safe distance from the structure,” Walsh said.

How to access businesses near Lindy’s Diner

City officials provided alternative routes to guide the public to businesses near Lindy’s Diner that remain open.

To access 505 Central Food Hall, the public is urged to take Sixth and loop back toward the food hall from Copper or Tijeras.

For those arriving from the east, drive west on Central before turning right on Sixth and use nearby side streets such as Copper to access the area.

For access to KiMo Theatre, use eastbound Central to take a left on Sixth and use Copper or Tijeras to head back toward Central. Drivers coming from the east can travel west on Central and turn right on Sixth before using a side street to access the theater. 

Anyone attempting to access the KiMo Theatre from Interstate 25 can use the Lead/Coal exit westbound before turning right on Sixth or Seventh. From there, go north toward Central and approach the theater from those streets.

Nakayla McClelland covers crime and breaking news. Reach her at nmcclelland@abqjournal.com or at 505-823-3857.