Hahn Building in 2007. – Image Credit: LWYang (CC by 2.0)
The Hahn Building, an unassuming 131-year-old edifice at the entrance to Pike Street Market, is set for demolition, to be replaced by a 14-story hotel. Despite its age, the existing building was twice rejected for historical status due to its numerous alterations. Now, however, developers Marketview Place Associates are facing a growing opposition to the planned project from a variety of angles. Originally, condo owners at the adjacent Newmark Towers ignited protest, citing that the new hotel would block views and decrease the value of their property. Two of the owners decided to take the opposition public, starting a Change.org petition that has gained well over 7,000 signatures. Many of these opponents point out that a tall building would ruin the integrity of the historical intersection and nearby Pike Street Market. Others wish to prevent the loss of current Hahn Building tenant Green Tortoise Hostel, one of the few affordable accommodations left in the city. While the City Council currently seems reticent to block the development, wishful thinkers are reminded of the 1960s movement lead by architect Victor Steinbrueck that saved the nearby historic market in the first place.
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