Save the Blue Orchid!
It’s late notice, but a dear friend of mine is in trouble. The Orange City Council will hold a Planning Commission Meeting tonight at 7pm — item “5” on the agenda:
A proposal to construct a two-story 5,836 sq. ft., professional building on a 19,675 sq. ft. lot, located at 305 S. Main Street. Proposal includes the demolition of 1,400 sq. ft. of accessory structures and the relocation of an historic 1927 Provincial Styled gas station building to 887 N. Glassell Street.
That’s the Old Don Clark Station, currently the “Blue Orchid Flower Shop.” I received word today that the good folks at the Blue Orchid have sent out a plea for support at the meeting. Link to the flyer (828K PDF).
I realize it’s a relocation, but take a trip up Main St sometime. It’s a wasteland outside of the few blocks of life in downtown Santa Ana. The Blue Orchid represents one of the only historic structures between Chapman and Civic Center. It’s a breath of fresh air in a sea of strip malls.
Sure, Orange County is a lost cause. We’ve become the incredible suburb, practically devoid of any historical relevance — but, there are a few reminders out there. Little throwbacks to a place that once was.
Anyway, if you’re interested the meeting is at 7 pm in the Orange City Council Chambers on Chapman and Center.
Definitely worth speaking up if you can make it. Not quite on the level of the Fox Theater it is still important. Places like that really add to the area and another regular building will only be more of the same.