In a surprise move, the Houston Archaeological and Historical Commission (HAHC) will consider designating the River Oaks Shopping Center, River Oaks Theater and Alabama Theater/Bookstop as City of Houston Landmarks without the approval of owner Weingarten Realty (which HAHC has the legal authority to do). The decision comes after Weingarten recently announced plans to demolish part of the River Oaks Shopping Center amid a local outcry over saving this Art Deco landmark. The decision wil be considered today, Wednesday April 25, 3pm in the City Hall Annex Counci Chamber at 900 Bagby. I am reminded of the documentary on saving Grand Central Station, then-scheduled for demolition, when Jackie Onassis said something to the effect of "people say it's too late to save the building, but it's not too late — it's still there."
Better late than never, Houston arrives at the architectural preservation party
