Crews began demolishing the historic Embers building in Printer's Alley on Wednesday.
Crews began work around 7:30 a.m. A backhoe was used to remove sections of the building, located across from Fleet Street Pub.
It was formerly known as the Fiddle and Steel Guitar Bar, and before that, the Climax Saloon, a historic brothel built hundreds of years ago.
"it's kind of strange seeing something that I've seen everyday for so long be demolished, but at the same time, who knows, maybe good things are coming." David Wileman, partial owner of Skull's Rainbow Room said. "I'm hoping they're going to keep restaurants and bars on that first floor. That should make it a destination area again."
Crews were seen hosing down some of the bricks, many of which will be saved for part of a revitalization project.
"I hate to see it come down, but I know progress is progress." Sam Phipps of Bourbon Street Blues Bar said.
According to developer Alex Marks, they tried to save the building but it was unsafe. He said they are putting in a hotel, restaurant, and bar. This project has been in the works for 3 years.
Back in February, reports surfaced that the Embers Building, previously slated for preservation, would be demolished to make room for a new hotel.
However at that time, Mayor Megan Barry said no demolition permits have been approved by either the Codes Department or the Metro Historical Commission.
More: Barry Releases Statement On Printers Alley Development
A petition online gained quite a bit of attention and signatures. View the petition by clicking here.
