Editor:
Last time I wrote, I mentioned that Españolans must patronize older businesses more. Today I submit that we should take this a step further and do everything we can to look out for the preservation of old buildings as well.
Having spent most of my childhood and youth in the Española Valley, it’s troubling to me when I look at the sheer number of older buildings that are in many cases, not only not in operation, but not standing at all. One example of this would be a recently razed, two story shopping building next to Valley National Bank that once held among other businesses, a video store called Video Express where I rented games as a kid.
My point is that much of the vibrant culture in this great city lies in some of the oldest buildings in the area, and I don’t see much evidence that the city has the resolve to hold on to them. If derelict buildings are replaced or overtaken, they are typically done so by corporate chains, and we have already seen large business all but swamp out local restaurants, markets, and liquor and hardware stores.
I guess you could call me an “urban preservationist.” I prefer the city not lose every structure that reminds us earlier times.
Some say Española needs less economic regulation to bolster business. But it looks like huge business is bolstered enough. What we need are measures to assure that all things historic get such consideration too.
Jeremiah Wall
Rio Rancho