Oakland Googie landmark in jeopardy

FYI - For anyone interested in proposed redevelopment issues in Oakland.

The proposed plan includes demolition of the former Biff's Coffee Shop
designed by Googie architects Armet & Davis.

http://friendsofbiffs.blogspot.com/2009/06/brief-history-of-biffs.html
http://www.googieart.com/

Oakland Heritage Alliance Preservation Action Announcement

Broadway/Valdez District Specific Plan Public Meeting

When: Thursday, January 28, 2010
Time: 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Where: First Presbyterian Church, 2619 Broadway
Please RSVP: Broadway-retail- plan@oaklandnet. com The City of Oakland
is in the process of developing a specific plan for the Broadway/Valdez
District (Broadway from West Grand - Interstate 580) to support the need
for destination retail in Oakland.

PUBLIC WORKSHOP
Please join us at the third of six interactive workshops to discuss
plans for the Broadway/Valdez area. We encourage you to become familiar
and be involved with the specific plan process. This meeting will
discuss project alternatives for the development in this area.
This is your first opportunity to see what the City and its consultant
team envision for Broadway / Valdez corridor, and weigh in with your input.

Wow, I'm on the OHA listserv and I didn't realise they were talking about Biff's Coffee Shop when I read that email.

I actually worked there once.........

I just picked up a book on amazon called "Googie; Fifties coffee shop architecture by Alan Hess. I bought it used on Amazon, and just recieved it yesterday. It is a must have book if you are into architecture, specifically of Restaurants of yesterday. There is a two page article about Biff's- Los Angeles locations. It even says all of the Biff's locations were built on corner Union Oil lots. Good luck with saving this piece of mid century history. It should be preserved, as there are no Biff's buildings left that I know of. Keeping one of each, isnt much to ask for in today's age. Keep us posted!

There were at least two Biff's in the valley. I remember eating years ago at one on Sherman Way, but I do not recall the cross street. I so seldom go to the valley anymore that I have no idea if it is still there. I don't recall being overly impressed with the quality of the food.